Getting around in San Jose

The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) oversees public transport in and around San Jose and makes getting around in the city a breeze. What San Jose lacks in subway routes, it makes up for with an integrated transit system consisting of buses, light rail and long-distance trains, which will be easy for newcomers to navigate.

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Public transport in San Jose

Trains

VTA runs a light-rail network in San Jose which operates 365 days a year and is open between 4am and 1.30am, depending on the line. Trains usually arrive and depart every 15 minutes, but this can vary depending on the route and the time of day. Tickets must be purchased beforehand from a ticket vending machine at the station or via the EZfare mobile app. If using VTA services frequently, it's a good idea to pick up a Clipper card, which can be loaded with credit. One-day or monthly passes can also be loaded onto the Clipper card.

Another option is the Altamont Corridor Express (ACE), which is especially useful for sightseeing between Stockton and San Jose. Tickets can be bought through ACE's website or at stations and official vendors.

For longer distances, expats can take the Caltrain between San Francisco, San Jose and Gilroy. The Clipper card can be used for the Caltrain, or tickets can be purchased via the official Caltrain mobile app or at vending machines prior to boarding.

Buses

VTA operates a comprehensive bus network which serves nearly 30 million passengers a year at more than 3,178 bus stops throughout Santa Clara County. 

Route numbers and destinations are visible at bus stops and above the bus's windscreen. Commuters should aim to arrive at their bus stop five minutes before scheduled arrival times. Buses are usually stopped by holding one's hand up, and passengers should have their fare or Clipper card ready before boarding. The exact amount must be used if paying in cash, as bus drivers do not carry change.

Useful links

• Visit the VTA's website to plan your commute. 
• Altamont Corridor Express and Caltrain have more on purchasing tickets and routes. 

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Taxis in San Jose

A multitude of cab companies are available to expats who would want to travel by taxi in and around San Jose. Taxis can either be called in advance or hailed on the street and are also available at the airport. However, they are pricier than other modes of transport, but some companies offer discounts for longer distances.

Popular ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft are operational in San Jose and can be utilised via their respective mobile applications.

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Cycling in San Jose

VTA has concentrated its efforts on improving conditions for cycling in San Jose and gearing its transit system towards accommodating cyclists. The Bay Area has a bike-sharing system known as Bay Wheels consisting of approximately 7,000 bikes across 550 stations in San Jose, San Francisco and the East Bay. Single-use, 24-hour and monthly passes are available, which can be purchased via the official mobile app or a Clipper card.

Useful links

• Check out Bay Wheels to purchase a pass and find docking stations. 

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Driving in San Jose

Walking in San Jose is a popular pastime, whether to commute or for leisure. Downtown San Jose is particularly walkable, while suburban areas are more spread out, though these are usually covered by the public transport system. Given the generally good weather and the city's relative safety, expats who enjoy getting around on their own two feet will enjoy living in San Jose.