Christmas Stories of San Jose - Private Walking Tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Enjoy a private, exclusive tour with your own local guide. Discover the holiday magic of the city on the "Christmas Stories of San Jose – Walking Tour." Begin in the festive St James Park, dazzling with lights and seasonal decor. Feel the reverent atmosphere at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral during its Christmas Eve service. Explore the historic charm of the Luis María Peralta Adobe, then savor the holiday flavors at San Pedro Square. Marvel at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph, adorned for the season. Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit at Plaza de Cesar Chavez, highlighted by a magnificent Christmas tree. Experience the joy of community and music at Circle of Palms Plaza and wrap up your journey in the festive embrace of Christmas in the Park, a wonderland of lights, decorations, and cheer. This tour weaves a tapestry of San Jose's Christmas spirit, creating lasting holiday memories.
*For reference only. Itineraries subject to change.
Available options
Chinese Guided Tour
Spanish Guided Tour
English Guided Tour
French Guided Tour
German Guided Tour
What's included
Local Professional Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
St James Park is a lovely public park with various plant species, gazebos, and fountains, where during Christmas, it transforms into a winter wonderland with sparkling lights and decorative displays.
2
Trinity Episcopal Cathedral is a historic church that hosts a beautiful Christmas Eve service and choir performances.
3
Luis María Peralta Adobe is a fascinating structure and one of the oldest buildings in San Jose that presents the local history and culture of the area.
4
San Pedro Square is a lively open plaza with numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars, offering delicious holiday-themed food and drinks.
5
Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph is a stunning Catholic church with a towering spire and intricate interior decorations.
6
The Plaza de Cesar Chavez is a vibrant downtown plaza with a giant Christmas tree and holiday-themed displays.
7
Circle of Palms Plaza is a charming outdoor area that hosts various Christmas events and concerts.
8
Christmas in the Park is a festive holiday village with decorated trees, illuminated displays, and live entertainment.
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
CMN
EN
FR
ES
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
At St James Park, Near United States Postal Service
About San Jose
San Jose is the heart of Silicon Valley, a bustling city known for its technological innovations, vibrant cultural scene, and beautiful natural surroundings. It offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure, making it a compelling destination for both business and leisure travelers.
Top Attractions
San Jose Museum of Art
The San Jose Museum of Art is a renowned institution showcasing contemporary and modern art. It features a diverse collection of works by local, national, and international artists.
Museum
2-3 hours
Moderate ($10-$20)
Happy Hollow Park & Zoo
Happy Hollow Park & Zoo is a family-friendly amusement park and zoo that offers a fun and educational experience for children and adults alike. It features a variety of rides, animal exhibits, and play areas.
Family/Entertainment
Half-day to full-day
Moderate ($20-$40 per person)
Computer History Museum
The Computer History Museum is a fascinating institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of computing and technology. It features a wide range of exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.
Museum
2-3 hours
Moderate ($10-$20)
Almaden Quicksilver County Park
Almaden Quicksilver County Park is a beautiful natural area that offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. The park is home to a historic mercury mine and features scenic trails and views.
Nature
Half-day to full-day
Free
Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum is a unique institution that houses a vast collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including mummies, sarcophagi, and hieroglyphic texts. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of ancient Egypt.
Museum
1-2 hours
Moderate ($10-$20)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Gourmet Pizza
San Jose is home to a variety of pizzerias offering gourmet and artisanal pizzas with unique toppings and high-quality ingredients.
Dinner
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Mexican Cuisine
San Jose has a large Mexican community, and the city is known for its authentic and delicious Mexican food, including tacos, burritos, and enchiladas.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Sushi
San Jose is home to a thriving sushi scene, with many high-quality sushi restaurants offering fresh and innovative dishes.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Popular Activities
Hiking
Biking
Surfing
Kayaking
Whale watching
Spa treatments
Beachcombing
Picnicking
Best Time to Visit
September to November
This period offers pleasant weather with clear skies and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
GMT-8 (Pacific Time Zone)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
San Jose is generally a safe city, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, visitors should still take precautions to ensure their safety, such as being aware of their surroundings and keeping valuables secure.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
- • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit or deserted areas
Getting there
By air
- Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport • 6.4 km (4 miles) from city center
- San Francisco International Airport • 64 km (40 miles) from city center
By train
San Jose Diridon Station
By bus
Downtown San Jose Transit Center
Getting around
Public transport
The VTA Light Rail system is a convenient and affordable way to get around San Jose and the surrounding areas. It consists of multiple lines that connect key destinations within the city and beyond.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown San Jose
Willow Glen
Cisco Systems Campus
Almaden Valley
Day trips
Santa Cruz
48 km (30 miles) • Full day
Santa Cruz is a charming coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, historic boardwalk, and outdoor activities. It offers a variety of attractions and experiences for visitors of all ages.
Monterey
113 km (70 miles) • Full day
Monterey is a historic coastal city known for its beautiful coastline, marine life, and cultural attractions. It is home to the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium and offers a variety of outdoor activities and scenic drives.
San Francisco
72 km (45 miles) • Full day to overnight
San Francisco is a vibrant and diverse city known for its iconic landmarks, cultural attractions, and unique neighborhoods. It offers a wide range of activities and experiences for visitors of all interests.
Festivals
San Jose Jazz Festival • August
San Jose Earthquakes Matches • March to October
San Jose Pride • August
Pro tips
- Visit the Tech Museum of Innovation to learn about the latest technological advancements and innovations in Silicon Valley.
- Explore the diverse culinary scene in San Jose, with a focus on fresh, local, and sustainable ingredients.
- Take a day trip to nearby destinations, such as Santa Cruz, Monterey, or San Francisco, for a variety of outdoor activities and scenic views.
- Check out local events and festivals, such as the San Jose Jazz Festival or San Jose Pride, for a unique and culturally rich experience.
- Use public transportation, walk, or bike to get around the city, as it is an affordable and convenient way to explore San Jose.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
