How many days do you need in San Diego?

This itinerary covers 4 days in San Diego, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for San Diego?

Plan your perfect 4 days trip to San Diego. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Ultimate San Diego Road Trip Itinerary

Viewed by 192 travelers

Day 1: Downtown Exploration

San Diego, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Mission

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Mission, known for its fresh and flavourful dishes.

£15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Gaslamp Quarter

Take a stroll through the historic Gaslamp Quarter, lined with Victorian-era buildings housing an array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Baja Beach Cafe

Enjoy a seaside lunch at Baja Beach Cafe, offering delicious Mexican cuisine overlooking the ocean.

£20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit USS Midway Museum

Explore the USS Midway Museum, a naval aircraft carrier turned museum, showcasing a fascinating collection of aircraft and exhibits.

£25, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hodad's

End your day with a delicious burger at Hodad's, a local favourite known for its tasty and indulgent burgers.

£18, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in San Diego

Day 2: La Jolla and Torrey Pines

San Diego, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Richard Walker's Pancake House

Indulge in a scrumptious breakfast at Richard Walker's Pancake House, famous for its fluffy pancakes and hearty omelettes.

£17, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit La Jolla Cove

Spend the morning at La Jolla Cove, a picturesque spot renowned for its crystal-clear waters and friendly local seals.

Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at George's at the Cove

Enjoy a gourmet lunch at George's at the Cove, offering stunning ocean views and delectable Californian cuisine.

£30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Hike at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

Embark on a scenic hike at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, showcasing breathtaking coastal views and unique vegetation.

£10, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Shores Restaurant

Relax and dine at The Shores Restaurant, offering a delicious menu highlighting local seafood and American classics.

£25, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in San Diego

Day 3: Coronado Island

San Diego, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Clayton's Coffee Shop

Start your day with a classic breakfast at Clayton's Coffee Shop, a local favourite serving up hearty meals and delicious coffee.

£12, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Coronado Beach

Spend the morning relaxing at Coronado Beach, known for its pristine sands and iconic Hotel del Coronado.

Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Leroy's Kitchen + Lounge

Indulge in a delicious lunch at Leroy's Kitchen + Lounge, offering a diverse menu of farm-to-table dishes in a trendy setting.

£22, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Hotel del Coronado

Explore the historic Hotel del Coronado, an iconic Victorian-era beach resort with stunning architecture and luxurious amenities.

£10, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Il Fornaio Coronado

Enjoy a taste of Italy at Il Fornaio Coronado, where you can savour authentic Italian cuisine in a charming waterfront setting.

£28, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in San Diego

Day 4: Balboa Park and Old Town

San Diego, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cottage La Jolla

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at The Cottage La Jolla, known for its fresh and wholesome morning fare.

£16, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Balboa Park

Spend the morning exploring the cultural gem that is Balboa Park, home to museums, gardens, and Spanish Colonial Revival architecture.

£20 (for museum entry), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Prado at Balboa Park

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at The Prado at Balboa Park, offering a diverse menu in a beautiful outdoor patio setting.

£25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

Immerse yourself in the history of San Diego at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, where you can explore preserved historic buildings and museums.

Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Cafe Coyote

End your day with a delicious Mexican dinner at Cafe Coyote, known for its authentic flavours and vibrant ambiance.

£20, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in San Diego

Like this trip? Make your own version.

A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.

Create my version

Itinerary created by Plantrip Team May 29, 2024 AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Ultimate San Diego Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Downtown Exploration

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 2: La Jolla and Torrey Pines

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 3: Coronado Island

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 4: Balboa Park and Old Town

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

More About San Diego

Plan Your San Diego Trip