Budget-Friendly San Diego Exploration

View Packing List

Day 1: Balboa Park Adventure

San Diego, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Cottage La Jolla

Start your day with a delicious and affordable breakfast at The Cottage La Jolla, known for its cozy atmosphere and tasty dishes.
$10, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Explore Balboa Park

Spend the day exploring the museums, gardens, and architecture of Balboa Park. Don't miss the botanical building and the free outdoor concerts.
$0 (some attractions may have separate fees), 4 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Panama 66

Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch at Panama 66, located in the park and offering delicious sandwiches and salads.
$15, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Visit San Diego Zoo

Take a walk to the nearby San Diego Zoo, known for its conservation efforts and diverse animal exhibits. Consider purchasing tickets online for discounted rates.
$25 (discounted online ticket), 3 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at El Zarape Restaurant

End your day with a satisfying dinner at El Zarape Restaurant, known for its authentic Mexican cuisine at affordable prices.
$12, 1 hour
Book a Hotel

Day 2: La Jolla Cove Exploration

San Diego, USA

8:30 AM

Breakfast at Richard Walker's Pancake House

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Richard Walker's Pancake House, offering delicious pancakes and omelettes at budget-friendly prices.
$12, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Explore La Jolla Cove

Spend the day exploring the picturesque La Jolla Cove, known for its beautiful beaches, sea caves, and marine life. Consider snorkeling or simply relaxing by the shore.
$0, 4 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at The Taco Stand

Grab a quick and delicious lunch at The Taco Stand, known for its affordable and authentic Mexican street tacos.
$10, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Visit Birch Aquarium

Head to Birch Aquarium to learn more about marine life and conservation efforts in the region. Check for any discounted tickets online.
$18 (discounted online ticket), 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Oscar's Mexican Seafood

Enjoy a seafood dinner at Oscar's Mexican Seafood, offering a variety of affordable and tasty seafood dishes.
$15, 1 hour
Book a Hotel

Day 3: Historic Old Town Exploration

San Diego, USA

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Cafe Coyote

Start your day with a delicious Mexican breakfast at Cafe Coyote, known for its authentic dishes and budget-friendly prices.
$10, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Explore Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

Spend the day exploring the historic buildings, museums, and shops in Old Town San Diego. Don't miss the free walking tours and live performances.
$0, 4 hours

2:30 PM

Lunch at Old Town Mexican Cafe

Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch at Old Town Mexican Cafe, known for its traditional Mexican cuisine and colorful atmosphere.
$12, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Shop for Souvenirs

Take some time to explore the shops in Old Town and pick up affordable souvenirs to remember your trip.
$0, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Tahini Street Food

End your day with a flavorful dinner at Tahini Street Food, offering budget-friendly Mediterranean dishes with a twist.
$15, 1 hour
Book a Hotel
0

More About san diego

Trip Packing List: San Diego (late February)
Packing List
Trip Packing List: San Diego, CA (March)
Packing List
San Diego Weather Guide: Year-Round Climate & Microclimates
Weather Guide
Full Guide to Michelin Star Cities: 2025 Updated List
Travel Expert
Global Michelin Cities & US Travel Tiers from New York
Travel Expert
Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed