Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

5-Day Ultimate San Diego Itinerary for $1500

Viewed by 138 travelers

Day 1: Downtown & Balboa Park

San Diego, USA on May 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Mission Café

Enjoy a hearty breakfast featuring Latin-inspired dishes in a bright café known for healthy options, perfect to kickstart your day.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Explore Balboa Park

Visit San Diego’s iconic urban park with museums, gardens, and historic architecture. Don't miss the Botanical Building and the Spanish Village Art Center.
Free entry to the park, select museums may charge USD15-20, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Prado

Dine at a stylish restaurant within Balboa Park offering upscale Californian cuisine and a beautiful ambiance.
USD25, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit the San Diego Museum of Art

Explore curated collections spanning over 5,000 years offering a glimpse into classic and contemporary art.
USD15, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Born and Raised

Finish your day with an exceptional steakhouse experience in Little Italy, known for its swanky atmosphere and quality cuts.
USD40, 1h30m
Find Hotels in San Diego

Day 2: SeaWorld & Waterfront

San Diego, USA on May 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe 222

Try their signature peanut butter and banana stuffed French toast in this charming downtown café.
USD15, 1h

9:00am

SeaWorld San Diego

Spend the morning at this renowned marine park enjoying animal shows, aquariums, and thrilling rides.
USD95, 5h

2:30pm

Lunch at The Fish Market

Enjoy fresh seafood with waterfront views just a short drive from SeaWorld.
USD30, 1h

4:00pm

Walk along Embarcadero Marina Park

Relax with scenic views of the harbour, harbor breeze, and photo opportunities near the USS Midway Museum.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Liberty Public Market

Sample a variety of cuisines at this lively food hall featuring local vendors offering everything from tacos to artisanal cheeses.
USD20, 1h
Find Hotels in San Diego

Day 3: La Jolla & Beaches

San Diego, USA on May 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Brockton Villa

Famous for the 'Coast Toast', this La Jolla eatery has beautiful ocean views to start your day right.
USD20, 1h

9:00am

La Jolla Cove & Sea Lions

Enjoy the picturesque coastline and observe the sea lions basking on the rocks. Ideal for nature photography and gentle seaside walks.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Kayaking or Snorkeling at La Jolla Shores

Explore underwater sea caves or snorkel with vibrant marine life; rentals and tours open from 10am-4pm.
USD50, 2h

2:00pm

Lunch at Duke’s La Jolla

Enjoy a Hawaiian-inspired menu with fish tacos and tropical cocktails overlooking the beach.
USD30, 1h

4:00pm

Relax at Pacific Beach

Beachfront stroll or sunbathe on the sandy shores while enjoying the lively beach town vibe.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Kono’s Cafe

A casual spot famed for breakfast-style dinners and tasty local dishes in Pacific Beach, open till 9pm.
USD20, 1h
Find Hotels in San Diego

Day 4: Old Town & Culture

San Diego, USA on May 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Coyote

Start with traditional Mexican breakfast in Old Town’s vibrant atmosphere, served all day.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

Explore museums, shops, and historic buildings portraying California's early history. Enjoy free admission and occasional live performances.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Old Town Mexican Cafe

Known for handmade tortillas and authentic dishes with festive decor.
USD20, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Mission San Diego de Alcala

Tour the first Spanish mission in California, significant for history buffs, open 9am to 5pm.
USD7, 1h

4:00pm

Discover Liberty Station

Former naval base turned art and cultural district featuring galleries, boutique shops and waterfront parks.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Slater’s 50/50 in Liberty Station

Try the famous 50/50 burger (half bacon, half beef) in a lively setting offering great craft beers.
USD25, 1h
Find Hotels in San Diego

Day 5: Zoo & Departure

San Diego, USA on May 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hash House A Go Go

Known for generous portions of gourmet 'twisted farm food', a perfect hearty start before a big day.
USD20, 1h

9:00am

San Diego Zoo

World-famous zoo with over 3,500 animals, innovative habitats, and engaging encounters. Open 9am-6pm.
USD60, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch at Albert’s Restaurant inside Zoo

Enjoy a convenient meal without leaving the zoo grounds offering salads, sandwiches and desserts.
USD25, 1h

3:00pm

Relax at your hotel or visit local shops

Spend remaining hours unwinding or picking last-minute souvenirs before departure.
Variable, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Coco’s Restaurant & Bakery

Casual dining near the airport with classic American fare and bakery items, ideal for your last meal in town.
USD20, 1h
Find Hotels in San Diego
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

More About San Diego

Trip Packing List: San Diego (late February)
Packing List
Trip Packing List: San Diego (17 Apr - 27 Apr 2026)
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

Plan Your San Diego Trip

Cost Estimator
Estimate your trip budget
Packing List
Get a custom checklist
Weather Expert
Check weather & best time to go