3-Day San Diego Itinerary

• Day 1: Start your day bright and early by visiting La Jolla Cove. This stunning natural reserve is home to breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and a thriving ecosystem of marine life. Next, head over to the San Diego Zoo for a chance to see over 3,500 animals from around the world. In the afternoon, visit historic Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, where you can experience authentic Mexican culture, colorful shops, museums, and restaurants.
• Day 2: Begin your day with a visit to Balboa Park, the largest urban cultural park in North America. Take a walking tour or check out one of the many museums (such as the San Diego Museum of Art or the San Diego Natural History Museum) that call the park home. Next, make your way to Cabrillo National Monument to enjoy stunning panoramic views of San Diego and the Pacific Ocean. End your day by visiting the USS Midway Museum, where you can explore the incredible history of aircraft carriers and naval aviation.
• Day 3: Start your day with a visit to the San Diego Botanic Garden, a hidden paradise filled with beautiful gardens, waterfalls, and exotic plants. Next, head to Torrey Pines State Reserve, where you can hike amongst stunning bluffs and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Finally, end your trip by visiting Downtown San Diego, where you can experience the city's vibrant nightlife, delicious restaurants, and cultural landmarks like the Gaslamp Quarter.

Time and Costs Estimates

• La Jolla Cove (2-3 hours, free)
• San Diego Zoo (4-6 hours, $54-$64)
• Old Town San Diego State Historic Park (2-3 hours, free)
• Balboa Park (4-6 hours, free)
• Cabrillo National Monument (2-3 hours, $10 per vehicle)
• USS Midway Museum (2-3 hours, $26-$30)
• San Diego Botanic Garden (2-3 hours, $18-$22)
• Torrey Pines State Reserve (2-3 hours, $15)
• Downtown San Diego (2-3 hours, free)
Total Estimated Costs: $123-$154

Transportation

San Diego has multiple transportation options for visitors, including ride-sharing services, public transportation, and walking. Renting a car may be a good option if you plan to visit attractions outside the city or if the group is large. Expect to spend anywhere from $15 to $40 a day for public transportation passes. Ridesharing services like Uber or Lyft are prevalent, and the average cost of a single trip is between $8 and $25. Taxis and car rentals are also available. Note that parking fees in popular areas can be costly, and traffic can be heavy during peak hours.

Useful Tips

For visitors with extra time, consider adding a trip to the San Diego Maritime Museum, where you can explore historic ships and learn about San Diego's maritime history. Alternatively, spend an afternoon at Coronado Beach, a beautiful beach known for its white sands and beautiful views of San Diego's skyline. For those with less time, consider skipping certain activities, such as the zoo or the USS Midway Museum. Alternatively, visitors can break up the larger attractions into two days if they prefer to spend more leisurely time at each location.