San Diego, CA, USA

The perfect 6 days itinerary

San Diego, California's second-largest city, is known for its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cultural scene. The city is home to a variety of attractions, including the world-renowned San Diego Zoo, the historic Gaslamp Quarter, and the stunning Balboa Park. With its mix of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and delicious cuisine, San Diego offers something for everyone.

What to do in San Diego?

This 6 days itinerary is the perfect guide to the best things to see in San Diego. It includes day-by-day activities, travel tips, and the top places to visit.

Day 1: Discover Downtown San Diego

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the USS Midway Museum, a historic naval aircraft carrier museum. Explore the ship, check out the aircraft, and learn about its history. From there, take a short walk to the Seaport Village, a waterfront shopping and dining complex.

Afternoon

Head to the Gaslamp Quarter, a historic district known for its vibrant nightlife, Victorian-era buildings, and great restaurants. Visit the Horton Plaza Park, a lively urban plaza with interactive fountains and public art.

Evening

Enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants in the Gaslamp Quarter, followed by a performance at the San Diego Civic Theatre.


Day 2: Explore Balboa Park

Morning

Spend the day exploring Balboa Park, a 1,200-acre urban cultural park. Start with a visit to the San Diego Zoo, one of the most famous zoos in the world. See the pandas, elephants, and other animals.

Afternoon

Visit some of the many museums in the park, such as the San Diego Museum of Art, the Museum of Man, and the San Diego Air & Space Museum. Take a stroll through the beautiful gardens, including the Japanese Friendship Garden and the Botanical Building.

Evening

End the day with a performance at the Old Globe Theatre, a renowned Shakespearean theatre.


Day 3: Enjoy the Beaches and Outdoor Activities

Morning

Head to La Jolla, a seaside area known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. Visit the La Jolla Cove, a small beach surrounded by cliffs, and go snorkeling or scuba diving.

Afternoon

Visit the Birch Aquarium at Scripps, home to a variety of marine life. Then, take a hike on the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

Evening

Enjoy a meal at one of the many seafood restaurants in La Jolla.


Day 4: Visit the Historic Old Town

Morning

Visit Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, a state protected historical park that commemorates the early days of the town of San Diego. Explore the historic buildings, including the Casa de Estudillo and the Whaley House.

Afternoon

Visit the Mission San Diego de Alcalá, the first of the 21 California missions. Explore the church, museum, and beautiful gardens.

Evening

Enjoy a meal at one of the many Mexican restaurants in the Old Town, followed by a visit to the Fiesta de Reyes, a lively shopping and dining complex.


Day 5: Explore the North County

Morning

Head to the North County and visit the San Diego Botanic Garden, a 37-acre garden with a wide variety of plants from around the world. Then, visit the Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park, a historic ranch with peacocks, historic buildings, and beautiful gardens.

Afternoon

Visit the California Surf Museum, which celebrates the history of surfing. Then, spend some time at the Oceanside Pier, a classic wooden pier with stunning ocean views.

Evening

Enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants in the North County, followed by a visit to the Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens for some local craft beer.


Day 6: Visit the Coronado Island

Morning

Take a ferry to Coronado Island and visit the Hotel del Coronado, a historic beachfront hotel. Enjoy the beautiful beach and take a walk around the charming town.

Afternoon

Visit the Coronado Museum of History & Art, which showcases the history and art of the Coronado Island. Then, take a bike ride or a walk along the Coronado Beach.

Evening

Enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants on the island, followed by a sunset view at the Ferry Landing.


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