Start the day in the bustling Little Italy neighborhood, known for its vibrant food scene. Visit the Little Italy Mercato Farmers Market on Saturday for fresh local produce and artisanal goods. Then, stop by Kettner Exchange for a rooftop brunch and stunning views of the city. In the afternoon, head to Ballast Point Brewing for a brewery tour and craft beer tasting.
North Park is a hip neighborhood with a variety of eateries and local boutiques. Start with breakfast at Communal Coffee, a chic café with delicious baked goods. Take a stroll around the neighborhood, and then visit Nomad Donuts for unique, gourmet pastries. In the evening, head to Urban Solace for classic American comfort food, or try the vegan options at Kindred.
La Jolla is a scenic coastal community with upscale dining options. Start the day with brunch at Brockton Villa, offering stunning ocean views with local California cuisine. Afterwards, visit the Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography to learn about marine life. In the evening, dine at The Marine Room for French-inspired seafood dishes.
The Gaslamp Quarter is a historic district with plenty of restaurants and nightlife options. Start with coffee and avocado toast at Café 21, offering a Mediterranean twist on brunch. Visit the historic Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House to learn about the neighborhood’s history. For dinner, head to Herb & Wood for contemporary American cuisine with local ingredients.
San Diego is best explored by car, as public transportation can be limited. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available, but costs can add up quickly. Expect to spend between $10-$30 per ride, depending on the destination, time of day, and surge pricing. Traffic can also be congested during peak hours, especially near downtown and tourist areas. Plan accordingly and allow extra time for travel.
If you have extra time, consider exploring more neighborhoods like Point Loma or Hillcrest. For a unique culinary experience, book a food tour with Bite San Diego or So Diego Tours. For a more relaxing day, visit Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve for scenic nature hikes and beach views. If you have less time, prioritize visiting Little Italy and La Jolla for a taste of San Diego’s diverse food scene.
San Diego International Airport (SAN) is located about 3 miles northwest of downtown San Diego. It serves as a hub for several major airlines and offers direct flights to major cities throughout the United States, as well as international destinations in Canada, Mexico, and Europe. Expect a 10-20 minute drive or ride-share from the airport to downtown.