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Explore the Best of California in 9 Days

Viewed by 62 travelers

Day 1: Arriving in LA

Los Angeles, USA

9:00AM

Breakfast at Sqirl

Start your day with a famous breakfast bowl or ricotta toast at Sqirl, a trendy café with an emphasis on fresh ingredients.
Located at 720 N Virgil Ave, Los Angeles, it’s a short drive from many hotels.
USD15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Griffith Observatory

Head to Griffith Observatory for stunning views of the city and the iconic Hollywood Sign.
Drive 15 minutes via Griffin Park Blvd.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at In-N-Out Burger

Savour California’s favourite fast-food meal, a double-double burger at the iconic In-N-Out.
Drive about 20 minutes to 700 W Sunset Blvd.
USD10, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Hollywood Walk of Fame

Stroll along the Hollywood Walk of Fame and check out the handprints of celebrity legends.
Only a 10-minute drive from lunch spot.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Visit The Getty Center

Enjoy incredible art collections and beautiful gardens at The Getty Center.
A 25-minute drive via I-405 N.
Free, 2.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Bazaar by José Andrés

Indulge in contemporary Spanish dishes at a lively restaurant known for its unique culinary experience.
A 20-minute drive from The Getty Center.
USD85, 2 hours
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Day 2: Adventure in Los Angeles

Los Angeles, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Eggslut

Start your day with a delicious breakfast sandwich at Eggslut in Grand Central Market.
Drive around 15 minutes to 317 S Broadway.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Universal Studios Hollywood

Spend the day at Universal Studios with thrilling rides and movie magic.
Drive 20 minutes via US-101 N.
USD139, 6 hours

4:30PM

Relax at Venice Beach

Wind down with a walk on the iconic Venice Beach Boardwalk, people-watching and soaking up the sun.
Approx. a 30-minute drive from Universal.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Guelaguetza

Enjoy a vibrant Oaxacan meal with delicious mole and fresh corn tortillas.
A 20-minute drive away from Venice Beach.
USD30, 2 hours
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Day 3: San Diego Bound

San Diego, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Broken Yolk Café

Start with a hearty breakfast at this beloved local chain known for their omelets.
Drive 15 minutes from your hotel in Los Angeles.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to San Diego

Hit the road and make your way down the scenic I-5 South to San Diego.
It's about a 2-hour drive.
USD20 (gas), 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Balboa Park

Discover the beauty of Balboa Park with its museums and gardens.
Just a quick drive from Downtown San Diego.
Free, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at The Crack Shack

Enjoy farm-fresh fried chicken and creative egg dishes at this laid-back eatery.
Nearby, just a 5-minute drive.
USD20, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Visit San Diego Zoo

Spend the afternoon marveling at the incredible animals at one of the world’s best zoos.
Just a 10-minute drive from the lunch spot.
USD65, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at George's at the Cove

Enjoy an exquisite dining experience with stunning ocean views and modern American cuisine.
A 15-minute drive from the zoo.
USD70, 2 hours
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Day 4: Beach Bliss in San Diego

San Diego, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cottage

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at this charming spot known for pancakes and fresh fruit.
A short 10-minute drive.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Sunbathe at La Jolla Shores

Spend a beautiful morning soaking up the sun and swimming in La Jolla's stunning beach.
Just a 15-minute drive from breakfast.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Duke's La Jolla

Savour fresh Hawaiian and seafood dishes at this oceanfront restaurant.
A short walk to the restaurant.
USD35, 1 hour

2:30PM

Kayaking in La Jolla Cove

Experience the beauty of La Jolla Caves by taking a guided kayaking tour.
Meet at La Jolla Cove, just 5 minutes away.
USD50, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit Cabrillo National Monument

Explore tidal pools and take in spectacular views of San Diego Bay.
A 20-minute drive from kayaking.
USD20, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Old Town Mexican Cafe

Enjoy authentic Mexican dishes in a lively atmosphere in Old Town.
Only 15 minutes from the monument.
USD25, 2 hours
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Day 5: Head to San Francisco

San Francisco, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café 222

Fuel up with their famous peanut butter and banana stuffed French toast!
A quick 15-minute drive.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to San Francisco

Enjoy a scenic drive along the California coast via the Pacific Coast Highway.
Expect around 8 hours of stunning landscapes.
USD50 (gas and snacks), 8 hours

5:30PM

Arrive in San Francisco

Check into your hotel and unwind after your drive.
Multiple hotel options available in downtown.
Varies, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Fog Harbour Fish House

Enjoy fresh seafood with a stunning view of the Bay Bridge.
Located at Pier 39, just a short drive or walk.
USD60, 2 hours
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Day 6: Discover San Francisco

San Francisco, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square

Savour delicious breakfast dishes made from fresh, local ingredients.
A 15-minute drive from your hotel.
USD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Golden Gate Park

Explore this sprawling park filled with stunning gardens and museums.
A short 15-minute drive.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Cliff House

Enjoy a spectacular view while dining on fresh seafood at this iconic restaurant.
Located within the park, just a short drive away.
USD50, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Alcatraz Island

Take a ferry to tour the infamous Alcatraz prison.
Ferry departs from Pier 33, drive about 15 minutes from lunch.
USD40, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at House of Prime Rib

Indulge in a classic American steak dinner in a timeless ambience.
A 15-minute drive back from Pier 33.
USD65, 2 hours
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Day 7: Napa Valley Excursion

Napa Valley, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Model Bakery

Start your day with delicious pastries and coffee at this popular bakery in Napa Valley.
Drive 1.5 hours from San Francisco.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Wine Tasting at Robert Mondavi Winery

Enjoy a morning of wine tasting at this iconic winery in the heart of Napa.
Located within Napa Valley, only a 20-minute drive.
USD40, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Bistro Don Giovanni

Indulge in Italian cuisine with local wine pairings at this charming restaurant.
A 15-minute drive from the winery.
USD50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore The Culinary Institute of America

Take a culinary tour and enjoy chef demonstrations and exhibitions.
Just a short drive from lunch.
USD30, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit V. Sattui Winery

End the day with another round of wine tasting at this family-owned winery.
Only a 15-minute drive.
USD30, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Oxbow Public Market

Explore various food vendors offering local and artisanal meals.
A short drive from V. Sattui Winery.
USD30, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Napa Valley

Day 8: Nature at Yosemite

Yosemite National Park, USA

7:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Fuel up for a day of exploring Yosemite with a hearty breakfast.
An early start departing Napa at 8 AM.
Varies, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Yosemite National Park

Experience stunning scenery on the way to one of the USA's very best national parks.
It's a 3.5-hour drive from Napa, approximately 180 miles.
USD20 (gas), 3.5 hours

11:30AM

Arrive at Yosemite National Park

Get ready to explore the breathtaking natural beauty of Yosemite!
Entrance at the park is a short drive from the entrance.
USD35 (vehicle entry), 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Degnan’s Deli

Grab a quick lunch with sandwiches and snacks before your adventures.
Located at the Lodge at Yosemite, within the park.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hiking to Vernal Fall

Spend the afternoon hiking to the stunning Vernal Fall and enjoy the spectacular waterfalls.
From the deli, it's a 30-minute drive to the trailhead.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Explore Tunnel View

Conclude the day by taking in stunning views of El Capitan and Half Dome.
A 15-minute drive from Vernal Fall.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Wawona Hotel Restaurant

Enjoy a lovely dinner in a rustic atmosphere surrounded by nature.
Engage with your surroundings, which offer the true wilderness experience.
USD40, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Yosemite National Park

Day 9: Returning to Los Angeles

Los Angeles, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy breakfast before hitting the road for your journey back to Los Angeles.
Suit up and get ready to depart.
Varies, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive back to Los Angeles

Take a scenic drive back, reflecting on the beautiful memories created during your trip.
It's about a 6-hour drive.
USD30 (gas), 6 hours

3:00PM

Arrive in Los Angeles

Return the rental car and check in for your flight home or continue your next adventure!
Head towards LAX, depending on your travel plans.
Varies, 1 hour
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