I’ve lived in San Jose for a while and the only advice I have to give is…just skip it. No historic landmarks or interesting architecture. There are just big supermarkets and single-level housing. There are a few trashy clubs downtown but that’s about it. The only shopping district other than strip malls (just about on every block) is this place called Santana Row, which is supposed to resemble some European street, but it just feels fake. Honestly, everything there is and feels fake. It’s the Silicon Valley…metaphorically speaking. If you do end up there by some unfortunate and unavoidable twist of fate, you will need a car (and lots of $$$ for gas) since public transport is not even worth a try and cabs are overpriced. Someone said there are good taco joints…I guess that’s true. But whatever you do STAY AWAY FROM TACO BRAVO! I would recommend Santa Cruz instead. Better food, better atmosphere. Heck even downtown Campbell or Palo Alto (which are half the size) have more to offer.