Where to Stay in Silicon Valley

Silicon Valley. Home of the biggest tech ideas and some of the deepest venture capital pockets. Although I’ve been to the San Francisco Bay Area several times (my husband went to business school there), a few weeks ago marked the first time I properly stayed in Silicon Valley – San Jose and its surrounding towns. Whether you’re visiting the area for business or leisure, here’s where to stay in Silicon Valley.

Just ten minutes from San Jose Airport, the commercial and residential neighborhood of Santana Row has everything you could possibly need for your trip. Whether you’re a luxury shopper and team #GucciGang, a bargain hunter and love H&M, or a Sephora VIP, Santana Row has all the shopping, dining, and gorgeous views you need! Within walking distance is the largest shopping mall in Northern California, Westfield Valley Fair. If you are traveling with older kids or family members who like a little spook, the Winchester Mystery House mansion is also nearby.

Hotel Valencia Santana Row

The Hotel Valencia Santana Row is a boutique hotel in the Santana Row village, and the perfect place to stay while visiting Silicon Valley. With 215 rooms and suites, the hotel is vast but it does not lose it’s boutique feel. The decor is Spanish inspired, both in the rooms and throughout the hallways. Hand painted flamenco dancers greet you by the elevators on every floor, and rather than windows, the rooms open up to the courtyard with black-out doors.

We stayed in a Classic King room, and were welcomed with strawberries and a bottle of champagne! Our room doors opened up onto a balcony facing Santana Row, so I had a gorgeous view of palm trees and beautiful architecture every morning. The hotel provides robes – which should be standard hotel practice but is unfortunately not – so I was able to enjoy my morning tea on the balcony.

My favorite thing about the hotel is the outdoor lounge areas on the fifth and seventh floors. Even though we visited in early March, it was warm enough to enjoy the expansive views of San Jose from Cielo, the 7th floor deck. Unfortunately I went up around 8am when I knew it would be empty, so I couldn’t take advantage of Cielo’s seasonal wine bar!

The pool area on the fifth floor would be the perfect relaxing hideout if you’re not in the mood to go shopping. There didn’t seem to be many kids on the property, so the pool area was tranquil. If you’re actually looking to mix and mingle, check out Hotel Valencia’s lobby level Vbar. Although we didn’t have a chance to check it out during our stay, when we walked by, it was bustling with tons of activity.

Next time we’re in Silicon Valley, we will definitely be staying at the Hotel Valencia Santana Row again!