Budget-Friendly 10-Day California Adventure: Disneyland, Universal Studios, and Golden Gate Bridge

Day 1: Golden Gate Bridge Visit

San Francisco, USA on September 1, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe de Casa

Start your day with an affordable and hearty breakfast featuring Mexican and American options at this cozy cafe near the bridge.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Golden Gate Bridge Walk

Enjoy a scenic walk or bike ride across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge with stunning views of the bay and city skyline. It's free and open 24/7.
USD0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Warming Hut

Grab a budget-friendly sandwich or snack at this cafe located at the bridge's south end, perfect before more walking or travel.
USD12, 45 minutes

1:00PM

Explore Crissy Field

Relax and stroll along the waterfront park providing great views of the bridge and picnic spots.
USD0, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Palace of Fine Arts

Discover this beautiful architectural landmark and peaceful lagoon, perfect for photos and free to visit.
USD0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Sushirrito

Enjoy affordable, unique sushi burritos offering a blend of flavors and quick service in San Francisco.
USD15, 1 hour
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Day 2: Explore San Francisco

San Francisco, USA on September 2, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tartine Bakery

Taste fresh, delicious pastries and coffee from one of San Francisco's most popular bakeries without breaking the bank.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39

Explore the lively waterfront with street performers, shops, and sea lions. Open all day, free access.
USD0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Boudin Bakery Cafe

Savor San Francisco’s famous sourdough bread with clam chowder in a bread bowl – affordable and filling.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Ride the Cable Car

Experience a historic ride through the city hills, a must-do for first-timers, costing just USD8 per ride.
USD8, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Chinatown

Wander through colorful shops and markets in one of the oldest Chinatowns in North America.
USD0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Good Mong Kok Bakery

Enjoy some of the best affordable dim sum and Chinese baked goods in San Francisco’s Chinatown.
USD10, 1 hour
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Day 3: Travel to Los Angeles

Travel Day on September 3, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at local cafe

Have a quick budget breakfast before departing San Francisco.
USD10, 1 hour

8:00AM

Bus/Train Ride to Los Angeles

Take an affordable Greyhound or Amtrak bus/train for approximately 7-8 hours to Los Angeles; book tickets early for best fares.
USD40, 8 hours

4:30PM

Check-in to budget accommodation in Los Angeles

Find a hostel or budget hotel in downtown LA for convenience.
USD50, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at In-N-Out Burger

Enjoy a classic and affordable California fast-food experience at this beloved chain.
USD10, 1 hour
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Day 4: Universal Studios Hollywood

Los Angeles, USA on September 4, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Griddle Cafe

Fuel up with affordable pancakes and hearty breakfast options near Universal Studios.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Universal Studios Hollywood

Spend the day exploring rides, shows, and attractions in this iconic film studio theme park. It opens at 9:00AM.
USD109, 8 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Universal CityWalk

Choose from numerous affordable dining options, such as Blaze Pizza or Chipotle, perfect after a full day.
USD15, 1 hour
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Day 5: Los Angeles City Tour

Los Angeles, USA on September 5, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Original Pantry Cafe

Enjoy large portions and affordable classic American breakfast in downtown LA.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Griffith Park and Observatory

Hike easy trails with amazing views of LA and visit the Griffith Observatory (free entry, opens 12PM for public exhibits).
USD0, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Los Feliz Village

Pick a casual café or food truck eatery offering budget meals in this artsy neighborhood.
USD12, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Hollywood Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre

Stroll the famous Hollywood Boulevard and see stars on the sidewalk, free to visit anytime.
USD0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Drive or Metro to Santa Monica Pier

Relax by the beach and enjoy the sunset at this iconic pier with free beach access.
USD0, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Albright

Affordable seafood and casual dining directly on Santa Monica Pier.
USD20, 1 hour
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Day 6: Travel to Anaheim

Anaheim, USA on September 6, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at local diner

Have a budget-friendly breakfast before checking out from Los Angeles accommodation.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Anaheim by bus or metro

Take Metro or bus service from LA to Anaheim, approximately 1-1.5 hours ride.
USD10, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Check-in to budget hotel or hostel in Anaheim

Settle in affordable accommodation close to Disneyland for convenience.
USD50, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Burger Parlor

Enjoy an affordable burger meal near your accommodation to start your Anaheim stay.
USD12, 1 hour

2:30PM

Relax or Explore Downtown Anaheim

Visit local parks or shops nearby, enjoy a leisurely afternoon to recover energy.
USD0, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Taqueria De Anda

Delicious and wallet-friendly Mexican food popular with locals.
USD12, 1 hour
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Day 7: Disneyland Park

Anaheim, USA on September 7, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at hotel or nearby café

Grab a quick and affordable breakfast to prepare for a full day at Disneyland.
USD10, 1 hour

8:30AM

Disneyland Park Full Day Visit

Explore Disneyland’s exciting attractions and shows; the park opens at 9:00AM. Purchase tickets in advance for best prices.
USD104, 9 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Bengal Barbecue

Enjoy tasty grilled skewers and light meals inside the park, budget-friendly for Disneyland standards.
USD15, 1 hour
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Day 8: Disneyland California Adventure Park

Anaheim, USA on September 8, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Starbucks nearby

Affordable breakfast options to start your day before entering the park.
USD10, 1 hour

8:30AM

California Adventure Park Full Day Visit

Enjoy themed rides and entertainment in Disney’s other Anaheim park, opens at 9:00AM. Buy tickets in advance.
USD104, 9 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Pacific Wharf Café

Affordable soups and sandwiches with a nice atmosphere inside California Adventure Park.
USD15, 1 hour
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Day 9: Anaheim Leisure & Shopping

Anaheim, USA on September 9, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Starbucks or hotel

Quick affordable breakfast to keep budget in check.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Anaheim Packing District

Explore this food hall with diverse, affordable eats and check out local shops.
USD0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Kroft

Enjoy affordable grilled cheese sandwiches and comfort food within the Packing District.
USD12, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Downtown Anaheim or bike rental

Discover local shops, or rent a bike for a budget-friendly way to see the area.
USD10, 3 hours

5:00PM

Relax at hotel or nearby park

Unwind and prepare for your departure day.
USD0, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Roscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles

Indulge in a popular local chain with affordable hearty meals.
USD15, 1 hour
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Day 10: Departure Day

Anaheim, USA on September 10, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Grab a simple breakfast if included or nearby cafe before you depart.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Check-out and travel to airport

Arrange budget transport to Los Angeles International Airport or nearest transportation hub for departure.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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