United States

San Diego

Sun-soaked harbour city where beaches meet a famous zoo.

Local time: UTC-8
Population: 1.38M
Safety

Cost of a day

$$$$$

Very expensive

Food$$$$$About $84 a day: light breakfast, cheap lunch, mid-range dinner
Stay$$$$$3-star hotel about $268 a night for two
Transport$$$$$About $10.0 a day: 4 public transit rides

Exchange rate

🇺🇸 USD =

Rates from 2026-10-23, refreshed monthly.

Getting in

SANSan Diego International AirportMain airport, about 3 km from downtown.

How	Cost	Time
MTS bus #992 FlyerSanta Fe Depot, downtown	$2.25	10-15 min
Day ticket $6 allows transfers to trolley and buses.
Free shuttleOld Town Transit Center	$0	10-15 min
Connects to trolley, Greyhound and Old Town.
Shared shuttleDowntown hotels	$15	15-25 min
Per person; book ahead.
TaxiDowntown	$15-20	10-15 min
Short ride; traffic can slow it.
Uber / LyftDowntown	$12-20	10-15 min
Pickup zones at both terminals.

TIJTijuana International Airport (via CBX)Across the Mexican border, about 25 km southeast; useful for Mexico flights.

How	Cost	Time
CBX pedestrian bridgeTijuana airport terminal	$19.95-26.95	5-10 min
Each way; much faster than vehicle lanes.
CBX shuttleSanta Fe Depot, downtown	check locally	30-45 min
Last bus from CBX leaves around 20:30.
Trolley Blue Line + walkSan Ysidro border, then taxi	$2.50-5 plus taxi	60-90 min
Cheapest but slower; cross on foot.
TaxiDowntown	$45-70	30-45 min
Border waits can add time.

Estimates, checked October 2026. Wikivoyage: San Diego

Getting around

Ride apps or a rental car for most trips; the trolley and #992 bus cover downtown and the airport.

MetroMTS Trolley light rail links downtown, Old Town, Mission Valley and San Ysidro. Useful for those areas; not a full city network.
BusMTS buses cover the city. The #992 Flyer runs between SAN terminals and Santa Fe Depot downtown.
Taxi / ride apps ★Taxis are metered; Uber and Lyft operate widely and are usually cheaper.
Rental car ★A car is the most efficient way to see the sprawling county. Expect rush-hour congestion.
WalkingDowntown and the bayfront are walkable. Bikes and scooters are common near the beaches.
TrainThe Coaster commuter train and Amtrak Pacific Surfliner serve the coast north to Oceanside and Los Angeles.

Recommended stay★ 2 nights (3 days)

Two nights covers the Zoo or Balboa Park plus a beach day; add a night for La Jolla and Torrey Pines.

Best for

BeachLa Jolla coves, Mission Beach and sunset surfs.
FamilyZoo, Balboa Park museums and calm bay beaches.
NatureTorrey Pines trails, tide pools and whale watching.

Weather by month

18°9°Jan🌧 6d

18°9°Feb🌧 5d

18°10°Mar🌧 8d

20°12°Apr🌧 3d

20°14°May🌧 3d

22°16°Jun

25°18°Jul

26°19°Aug

25°18°Sep🌧 1d

24°15°Oct🌧 2d

21°11°Nov🌧 4d

18°9°Dec🌧 5d

Average daily high / low (°C), sea temperature and rainy days. Typical figures, not a forecast.

Climate

Mild Mediterranean-style coast: warm dry summers, cool winters and little rain outside winter and spring.

Best time: July to OctoberWarmest and driest, highs 24–26°C. Best for beaches and outdoor days.
May grey and June gloomCoastal fog and cloud in late spring and early summer. It often clears by midday; inland is sunnier.
Rain is light and winter-basedMost rain falls December to March, peaking in March at about 8 rain days. Summer is almost dry.
Cool evenings year-roundLows drop to 9–19°C depending on month. Bring a light layer even in summer.
Ocean stays coolWater is chilly much of the year. Wetsuits are common for surfing; check conditions on the day.
What to packLayers, a light jacket, sunscreen and comfortable shoes. Add a rain shell for winter and spring visits.

Landmarks 14

Must-see · 8

1
San Diego Zoo
One of the world's most celebrated zoos, home to pandas, elephants and a huge collection set in Balboa Park's canyons. Buy tickets online in advance for a discount, and arrive at opening to beat the crowds and heat.
2
Balboa Park
A sprawling cultural park with museums, gardens and Spanish colonial architecture, and the zoo sits within it. Go on a weekday morning, wear comfortable shoes, and use the free tram to get around.
3
USS Midway Museum
Tour a decommissioned aircraft carrier docked downtown, with planes on deck and crew quarters below. Book online, allow at least three hours, and go early to avoid the midday sun on the flight deck.
4
La Jolla Cove
A scenic cove with sea lions, tide pools and clear water for snorkeling and kayaking. Visit early morning for fewer crowds and better wildlife viewing, and keep a respectful distance from the sea lions.
5
Coronado Beach
A wide, golden-sand beach with the historic Hotel del Coronado as its backdrop. Take the ferry or drive over the bridge, and go in the late afternoon for softer light and fewer people.
6
Cabrillo National Monument
A clifftop monument with sweeping views over the harbor, the city and the Pacific, plus a historic lighthouse. Drive or take a rideshare to Point Loma, and come on a clear day for the best views.
7
Old Town San Diego
The historic birthplace of the city, with adobe buildings, museums and Mexican restaurants. It is easy to reach by trolley; go on a weekday to avoid weekend crowds.
8
San Diego Harbor Cruise
A boat tour of the harbor showing the skyline, naval ships and the Coronado Bridge from the water. Book a late-afternoon departure for cooler air and good light, and bring a light jacket for the breeze.

Cultural

Park 1

Statue 1

Old Town 1

Museum 1

University 1

Natural

Beach 2

Activities

Amusement Park 4

Festival 1

Cruise Tour 1

Zoo 1

Day trips from San Diego

Coronado · 21 min by bus

★★★★☆ · Half day · 9 km from San Diego

Best way: A short 21-minute bus ride over the bridge drops you near the sights, and the ferry is a classic alternative.

Take the ferry from downtown San Diego across the bay to Coronado, or a short bus ride over the bridge; the ferry is the classic route.

Bus ★21 min · from $2-$5
Car11 min · taxi ≈ $30

What to see

Hotel del Coronado
Coronado Beach
Ferry Landing
Orange Avenue shops

7 landmark quests to check off here

Good to know

The ferry from downtown is the scenic classic route
The beach by the Hotel del Coronado is the main sight
Weekday mornings are quieter than weekends

Oceanside · 54 min by train

★★★☆☆ · Half day · 61 km from San Diego

Best way: The Coaster commuter rail runs directly downtown in 54 minutes with frequent departures.

The Coaster commuter rail runs directly from downtown San Diego to Oceanside in about an hour, with frequent departures.

Train ★54 min · from $2-$7
Bus55 min · from $6-$9
Car47 min · taxi ≈ $160

What to see

Oceanside Pier
California Surf Museum
Harbor and beaches
Mission San Luis Rey

Good to know

The Coaster runs mainly on weekdays, so check the schedule
The pier and harbor are a short walk from the transit station
Summer weekends are busiest

Temecula · 1 h 09 by road

★★☆☆☆ · Full day · 94 km from San Diego

Best way: Public transport takes 2h36m with a change in Oceanside, while driving is only 69 minutes on a direct road.

Take the Coaster or a bus to Oceanside, then a Riverside Transit Agency bus or the 395 line inland to Temecula; the trip is about 1.5 to 2 hours each way with a change in Oceanside.

Bus2 h 36 · from $10-$28
Car ★1 h 09 · taxi ≈ $240

What to see

Old Town Temecula
Wine country tasting rooms
Pechanga Casino
Temecula Valley Museum

Good to know

Wine tasting is the main draw, so go on a weekday to avoid crowds
Many wineries require advance reservations for tastings
Summer afternoons are hot; mornings are more comfortable

Times and prices are typical one-way estimates (train and bus: Omio / Rome2Rio route data; taxi: local tariff × road distance, tolls extra). Exact prices are on the booking page.

Plans

San Diego rewards visitors with beaches, a historic harbour and easy day trips to Mexico. Pick how long you have and what you enjoy most. Prices checked October 2026; ≈ marks estimates.

How long?

What do you enjoy most?

2 nights · Beach ★ Recommended length

Beach-first weekend: La Jolla coves, a harbor cruise and sunsets over the water.

Stay: Downtown / Gaslamp Quarter. Walk to the bayfront, Petco Park and the Gaslamp restaurants. Trolley and #992 airport bus start here.

Tickets & tours: ≈ USD 0
Taxis: ≈ USD 304
Hotel: USD 300–700

Day 1

Arrive, harbor and Gaslamp

Tickets ≈ USD 0 pp · taxis ≈ USD 60

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 9 min · ≈ USD 15
1

15:30–17:30 · Check operator prices; short cruises often around USD 30–40

San Diego Harbor Cruise Landmark quest

Late-afternoon departures are calmer. Check the schedule on the day.

Open Departures through the day; check schedule on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ USD 15
2

18:00–19:30 · Free to walk

Gaslamp Quarter walk

Evening walk, then dinner. Liveliest after dark.

Open Always open; liveliest in the evening
Taxi · 641 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ USD 15
3

19:45–20:15 · Budget fast-casual; most meals under USD 15

Qdoba Landmark quest

Quick casual dinner. Hours vary by location.

Open Varies by location; check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 567 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ USD 15

Day 2

La Jolla and Sunset Cliffs

Tickets ≈ USD 0 pp · taxis ≈ USD 193

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 25 km · ≈ 1 h 13 min · ≈ USD 66
1

09:00–10:30 · Free

La Jolla Cove

Morning is quieter and the water is clearest. Watch the sea lions from a distance.

Open Open all day
Taxi · 7 km · ≈ 23 min · ≈ USD 20
2

11:00–12:30 · Free to walk the campus

University of California, San Diego (UCSD) Landmark quest

Short campus wander if you want a change of pace. Buildings vary.

Open Campus grounds generally open daily; buildings vary · Source
Taxi · 19 km · ≈ 57 min · ≈ USD 51
3

13:00–14:30 · Free to enter; pay per vendor

Liberty Public Market

Lunch at the food stalls. Usually open daily; check on the day.

Open Usually daily; check on the day
Taxi · 8 km · ≈ 26 min · ≈ USD 23
4

18:30–19:30 · Free

Sunset Cliffs

Arrive early for a parking spot. Stay back from the cliff edge.

Open Open all day
Taxi back to your hotel · 12 km · ≈ 37 min · ≈ USD 32

Day 3

Coronado morning, then fly

Tickets ≈ USD 0 pp · taxis ≈ USD 51

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 6 km · ≈ 20 min · ≈ USD 17
1

09:00–11:00 · Free

Coronado Beach Landmark quest

Calm bay water, good for a swim or a walk. Lifeguards usually daytime in summer.

Open Open all day; lifeguards usually daytime in summer · Source
Taxi · 6 km · ≈ 22 min · ≈ USD 19
2

11:30–12:00 · Budget fast food; most items under USD 10

Jack in the Box Landmark quest

Fast lunch before the airport. Many locations open long hours.

Open Many locations open long hours or 24h; check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 567 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ USD 15

2 nights · Family ★ Recommended length

Our pick for most families: the Zoo and Balboa Park, plus a beach and a harbor cruise.

Stay: Mission Valley. Cheaper chain hotels near the trolley and shopping. Central for driving to the Zoo and beaches.

Tickets & tours: ≈ USD 0
Taxis: ≈ USD 272
Hotel: USD 240–520

Day 1

Zoo day

Tickets ≈ USD 0 pp · taxis ≈ USD 72

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 5 km · ≈ 18 min · ≈ USD 16
1

09:00–14:00 · Check current ticket price on the official site; one-day passes are often around USD 70–80 for adults

San Diego Zoo Landmark quest

Go early for cooler weather and active animals. Hours vary by season; check on the day.

Open Daily, usually 09:00–17:00 or later in summer; check on the day · Source
Taxi · 584 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ USD 15
2

14:30–17:30 · Free to walk; museums charge separately

Balboa Park

The Zoo sits next to Balboa Park. Museums are daytime only; check on the day.

Open Park always open; museums daytime, check on the day
Taxi · 7 km · ≈ 25 min · ≈ USD 22
3

18:00–20:00 · Free to walk; some sites charge

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

Casual dinner and a short walk. Grounds usually open daily.

Open Grounds usually open daily; check on the day
Taxi back to your hotel · 6 km · ≈ 22 min · ≈ USD 19

Day 2

Harbor, Midway and beach

Tickets ≈ USD 0 pp · taxis ≈ USD 100

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 9 km · ≈ 29 min · ≈ USD 25
1

09:30–12:30 · Check current admission prices on the official site

USS Midway Museum

Morning is cooler on deck. Usually daily; check on the day.

Open Usually daily; check on the day · Source
Taxi · 542 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ USD 15
2

13:00–15:00 · Check operator prices; short cruises often around USD 30–40

San Diego Harbor Cruise Landmark quest

Boards near the Midway. Check departure times on the day.

Open Departures through the day; check schedule on the day
Taxi · 6 km · ≈ 20 min · ≈ USD 18
3

15:30–17:30 · Free

Coronado Beach Landmark quest

Calm, shallow bay water for kids. Lifeguards usually daytime in summer.

Open Open all day; lifeguards usually daytime in summer · Source
Taxi · 6 km · ≈ 22 min · ≈ USD 19
4

18:00–18:30 · Budget fast-casual; most meals under USD 15

Qdoba Landmark quest

Quick dinner. Hours vary by location.

Open Varies by location; check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 8 km · ≈ 27 min · ≈ USD 23

Day 3

Belmont morning, then fly

Tickets ≈ USD 0 pp · taxis ≈ USD 100

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 13 km · ≈ 41 min · ≈ USD 36
1

09:30–11:30 · Free to enter; rides and the Giant Dipper cost extra

Belmont Park Landmark quest

Rides and the beach boardwalk. Hours vary; check on the day.

Open Usually daily, hours vary; check on the day · Source
Taxi · 15 km · ≈ 45 min · ≈ USD 40
2

12:00–12:30 · Budget fast food; most items under USD 10

Jack in the Box Landmark quest

Fast lunch on the way to the airport.

Open Many locations open long hours or 24h; check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 8 km · ≈ 27 min · ≈ USD 23

2 nights · Nature ★ Recommended length

Outdoors-focused: tide pools, coastal cliffs and a sunset harbor cruise.

Stay: Harbor Island / Airport area. Quiet bayfront hotels, minutes from SAN airport and downtown. Good for early flights and families.

Tickets & tours: ≈ USD 0
Taxis: ≈ USD 333
Hotel: USD 280–600

Day 1

Cabrillo and the harbor

Tickets ≈ USD 0 pp · taxis ≈ USD 118

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 9 km · ≈ 30 min · ≈ USD 26
1

09:00–11:00 · Small entrance fee per vehicle or person; check current rates

Cabrillo National Monument

Go at low tide for the tide pools. Usually daily daytime; check on the day.

Open Usually daily daytime; check on the day · Source
Taxi · 13 km · ≈ 40 min · ≈ USD 35
2

12:00–13:30 · Free to enter; pay per vendor

Liberty Public Market

Lunch at the food stalls. Usually open daily.

Open Usually daily; check on the day
Taxi · 8 km · ≈ 25 min · ≈ USD 22
3

16:30–18:30 · Check operator prices; short cruises often around USD 30–40

San Diego Harbor Cruise Landmark quest

Sunset departures are best. Check the schedule on the day.

Open Departures through the day; check schedule on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ USD 15
4

19:00–20:30 · Free to walk

Gaslamp Quarter walk

Evening walk and dinner.

Open Always open; liveliest in the evening
Taxi back to your hotel · 6 km · ≈ 22 min · ≈ USD 19

Day 2

La Jolla and Sunset Cliffs

Tickets ≈ USD 0 pp · taxis ≈ USD 159

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 20 km · ≈ 1 h 1 min · ≈ USD 55
1

08:30–10:00 · Free

La Jolla Cove

Early morning is quiet and good for wildlife watching.

Open Open all day
Taxi · 7 km · ≈ 23 min · ≈ USD 20
2

10:30–12:00 · Free to walk the campus

University of California, San Diego (UCSD) Landmark quest

Optional campus walk. Grounds generally open daily.

Open Campus grounds generally open daily; buildings vary · Source
Taxi · 25 km · ≈ 1 h 12 min · ≈ USD 65
3

18:30–19:30 · Free

Sunset Cliffs

Best at sunset. Bring a layer; it gets breezy.

Open Open all day
Taxi back to your hotel · 6 km · ≈ 22 min · ≈ USD 19

Day 3

Balboa Park morning, then fly

Tickets ≈ USD 0 pp · taxis ≈ USD 56

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 8 km · ≈ 26 min · ≈ USD 23
1

09:00–12:00 · Free to walk; museums charge separately

Balboa Park

Gardens and trails are free. Museums are daytime only; check on the day.

Open Park always open; museums daytime, check on the day
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 14 min · ≈ USD 15
2

12:30–13:00 · Budget fast food; most items under USD 10

Jack in the Box Landmark quest

Quick lunch before the airport.

Open Many locations open long hours or 24h; check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 6 km · ≈ 21 min · ≈ USD 18

3 nights · Beach

A relaxed beach-first trip: La Jolla, Mission Beach and sunsets by the water.

Tickets & tours: ≈ USD 0
Taxis: ≈ USD 255

Day 1

Arrive and ease into the water

Tickets ≈ USD 0 pp · taxis ≈ USD 91

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

14:00–15:30 · Free

La Jolla Cove

Start here after check-in. Watch the seals and sea lions from the walkway.

Open Open all day
Taxi · 7 km · ≈ 23 min · ≈ USD 20
2

16:00–17:00 · Free to walk the campus

University of California, San Diego (UCSD) Landmark quest

Short drive north. Walk the campus grounds; buildings vary.

Open Campus grounds generally open daily; buildings vary · Source
Taxi · 27 km · ≈ 1 h 19 min · ≈ USD 71
3

18:30–20:00 · Free to walk

Gaslamp Quarter walk

Dinner and an evening stroll in the Gaslamp Quarter.

Open Always open; liveliest in the evening

Day 2

Mission Beach and the coaster

Tickets ≈ USD 0 pp · taxis ≈ USD 74

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

11:00–13:00 · Free to enter; rides and the Giant Dipper cost extra

Belmont Park Landmark quest

Rides and the beach boardwalk. Hours vary; check on the day.

Open Usually daily, hours vary; check on the day · Source
Taxi · 17 km · ≈ 50 min · ≈ USD 45
2

14:30–16:30 · Free

Coronado Beach Landmark quest

Drive or ferry over. Wide sand and calm water, good for families.

Open Open all day; lifeguards usually daytime in summer · Source
Taxi · 10 km · ≈ 33 min · ≈ USD 29
3

17:30–18:30 · Free

Sunset Cliffs

End the day watching the sun go down over the cliffs.

Open Open all day

Day 3

Harbor and bay

Tickets ≈ USD 0 pp · taxis ≈ USD 90

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:00–12:00 · Check operator prices; short cruises often around USD 30–40

San Diego Harbor Cruise Landmark quest

Book a late-morning departure. Check the schedule on the day.

Open Departures through the day; check schedule on the day
Taxi · 8 km · ≈ 25 min · ≈ USD 22
2

12:30–14:00 · Free to enter; pay per vendor

Liberty Public Market

Lunch at the food stalls. Usually open daily; check on the day.

Open Usually daily; check on the day
Taxi · 13 km · ≈ 40 min · ≈ USD 35
3

14:30–16:30 · Small entrance fee per vehicle or person; check current rates

Cabrillo National Monument

Tide pools and harbor views. Usually daytime; check on the day.

Open Usually daily daytime; check on the day · Source
Taxi · 12 km · ≈ 37 min · ≈ USD 33
4

18:30–20:00 · Free to walk

Gaslamp Quarter walk

Dinner downtown.

Open Always open; liveliest in the evening

Day 4

Last morning, then go

Tickets ≈ USD 0 pp · taxis ≈ USD 0

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:00–10:30 · Free

La Jolla Cove

One more quiet morning by the cove before you head out.

Open Open all day

3 nights · Family

Big-ticket family fun: the Zoo, Balboa Park and calm bay beaches.

Stay: Downtown / Gaslamp Quarter. Walk to the bayfront, Petco Park and the Gaslamp restaurants. Trolley and #992 airport bus start here.

Tickets & tours: ≈ USD 0
Taxis: ≈ USD 317
Hotel: USD 450–1,050

Day 1

Arrive and explore Balboa Park

Tickets ≈ USD 0 pp · taxis ≈ USD 60

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 4 km · ≈ 16 min · ≈ USD 15
1

13:30–16:30 · Free to walk; museums charge separately

Balboa Park

Park is always open; museums are daytime only. Check on the day.

Open Park always open; museums daytime, check on the day
Taxi · 7 km · ≈ 25 min · ≈ USD 22
2

17:00–19:00 · Free to walk; some sites charge

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

Historic grounds and an easy early dinner. Grounds usually open daily.

Open Grounds usually open daily; check on the day
Taxi back to your hotel · 8 km · ≈ 26 min · ≈ USD 23

Day 2

Zoo day

Tickets ≈ USD 0 pp · taxis ≈ USD 45

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 4 km · ≈ 16 min · ≈ USD 15
1

09:00–14:00 · Check current ticket price on the official site; one-day passes are often around USD 70–80 for adults

San Diego Zoo Landmark quest

Arrive at opening. Usually 09:00–17:00 or later in summer; check on the day.

Open Daily, usually 09:00–17:00 or later in summer; check on the day · Source
Taxi · 4 km · ≈ 15 min · ≈ USD 15
2

15:30–17:00 · Free to walk

Gaslamp Quarter walk

Rest and dinner downtown. Liveliest in the evening.

Open Always open; liveliest in the evening
Taxi back to your hotel · 239 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ USD 15

Day 3

Beach and harbor

Tickets ≈ USD 0 pp · taxis ≈ USD 80

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 6 km · ≈ 20 min · ≈ USD 17
1

10:00–12:00 · Free

Coronado Beach Landmark quest

Calm water and wide sand. Lifeguards usually daytime in summer.

Open Open all day; lifeguards usually daytime in summer · Source
Taxi · 6 km · ≈ 20 min · ≈ USD 18
2

13:30–15:30 · Check operator prices; short cruises often around USD 30–40

San Diego Harbor Cruise Landmark quest

Afternoon departure. Check the schedule on the day.

Open Departures through the day; check schedule on the day
Taxi · 542 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ USD 15
3

16:00–18:00 · Check current admission prices on the official site

USS Midway Museum

Short walk from the harbor. Usually daily; check on the day.

Open Usually daily; check on the day · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ USD 15
4

18:30–19:00 · Budget fast-casual; most meals under USD 15

Qdoba Landmark quest

Quick, easy dinner. Hours vary by location.

Open Varies by location; check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 567 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ USD 15

Day 4

Last morning, then go

Tickets ≈ USD 0 pp · taxis ≈ USD 132

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 25 km · ≈ 1 h 13 min · ≈ USD 66
1

09:00–10:30 · Free

La Jolla Cove

Seals and tide pools before the airport.

Open Open all day
Taxi back to your hotel · 25 km · ≈ 1 h 13 min · ≈ USD 66

3 nights · Nature

Coast and cliffs: tide pools, coves and sunset viewpoints.

Tickets & tours: ≈ USD 0
Taxis: ≈ USD 185

Day 1

Arrive and head to the cliffs

Tickets ≈ USD 0 pp · taxis ≈ USD 55

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

15:00–16:00 · Free

Sunset Cliffs

Easy walk along the bluff tops.

Open Open all day
Taxi · 7 km · ≈ 23 min · ≈ USD 20
2

16:15–18:15 · Small entrance fee per vehicle or person; check current rates

Cabrillo National Monument

Tide pools and harbor views. Usually daytime; check on the day.

Open Usually daily daytime; check on the day · Source
Taxi · 13 km · ≈ 40 min · ≈ USD 35
3

18:30–20:00 · Free to enter; pay per vendor

Liberty Public Market

Dinner at the food stalls. Usually daily; check on the day.

Open Usually daily; check on the day

Day 2

La Jolla coast

Tickets ≈ USD 0 pp · taxis ≈ USD 103

1

09:00–10:30 · Free

La Jolla Cove

Morning is calm and clear. Watch the sea lions from a distance.

Open Open all day
Taxi · 7 km · ≈ 23 min · ≈ USD 20
2

11:00–12:30 · Free to walk the campus

University of California, San Diego (UCSD) Landmark quest

Campus grounds generally open daily; buildings vary.

Open Campus grounds generally open daily; buildings vary · Source
Taxi · 26 km · ≈ 1 h 15 min · ≈ USD 68
3

15:00–17:00 · Check operator prices; short cruises often around USD 30–40

San Diego Harbor Cruise Landmark quest

Late-afternoon departure. Check the schedule on the day.

Open Departures through the day; check schedule on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ USD 15
4

18:00–19:30 · Free to walk

Gaslamp Quarter walk

Dinner downtown.

Open Always open; liveliest in the evening

Day 3

Park and beach

Tickets ≈ USD 0 pp · taxis ≈ USD 27

1

09:30–12:30 · Free to walk; museums charge separately

Balboa Park

Gardens and open lawns. Museums daytime; check on the day.

Open Park always open; museums daytime, check on the day
Taxi · 10 km · ≈ 31 min · ≈ USD 27
2

14:00–16:00 · Free

Coronado Beach Landmark quest

Beach walk and sunset.

Open Open all day; lifeguards usually daytime in summer · Source

Day 4

Last morning, then go

Tickets ≈ USD 0 pp · taxis ≈ USD 0

1

09:00–10:00 · Free

Sunset Cliffs

A final quiet walk before the airport.

Open Open all day

Swap in instead

Swap a beach afternoon for a day trip north on the Coaster or Pacific Surfliner to Oceanside or Encinitas.
Add a morning at Torrey Pines State Reserve: short cliff trails and ocean views; parking fills early, check on the day.
Cross to Coronado by ferry for the beach, the Hotel del Coronado and a slow lunch.

Getting around

MTS Trolley (light rail) links downtown, Old Town, Mission Valley and San Ysidro.
MTS buses cover the city; the #992 Flyer runs between SAN terminals and Santa Fe Depot.
Taxis are metered; Uber and Lyft operate widely and are usually cheaper.
A car is the most efficient way to see the sprawling county; expect rush-hour congestion.
Downtown and the bayfront are walkable; bikes and scooters are common near beaches.
The Coaster commuter train and Amtrak Pacific Surfliner serve the coast north to Oceanside and Los Angeles.

Where to stay

Downtown / Gaslamp Quarter · ≈ USD 150–350 a night
Walk to the bayfront, Petco Park and the Gaslamp restaurants. Trolley and #992 airport bus start here.
Harbor Island / Airport area · ≈ USD 140–300 a night
Quiet bayfront hotels, minutes from SAN airport and downtown. Good for early flights and families.
La Jolla · ≈ USD 220–600 a night
Walk to the cove, sea lions and snorkel spots. Upscale and calm; 20–30 minutes from downtown by car.
Mission Valley · ≈ USD 120–260 a night
Cheaper chain hotels near the trolley and shopping. Central for driving to the Zoo and beaches.

Food & drink

Try a fish taco: grilled or fried fish, cabbage slaw and crema. Cheap stands and sit-down spots both do it well.
California burrito: carne asada, fries, cheese and salsa wrapped in a tortilla. A full meal for one.
Little Italy on India Street for pasta, pizza and a lively evening scene; book ahead on weekends.
Seafood by the water in Point Loma and the Embarcadero; check the day's catch and prices on the board.
Craft beer is big here. Many tasting rooms in North Park and Miramar; expect about $8–10 a pint.

Tips

The craft beer scene is world-class; Miramar and North Park are packed with famous breweries
Rent a car if you want to explore the extensive coastline and inland neighborhoods
You can take the MTS Trolley directly to the San Ysidro border crossing to walk into Tijuana, Mexico
Fish tacos and California burritos (stuffed with french fries) are absolute must-tries
Balboa Park offers incredible museums, gardens, and the famous San Diego Zoo

Sources for prices and hours

Taxi costs are estimates from straight-line distance and the metered fare. Map positions are approximate.

Tours & activities

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

USS Midway Museum

Walk the flight deck and hangar of a real aircraft carrier
Skip the ticket line with a pre-booked entry
4,299 reviews · 4.8 rating

Entry includedTop rated

USS Midway Museum Entry Ticket

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.8 (4,299)

$39View tour

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

San Diego Zoo

See pandas, elephants and hundreds of species
Explore the canyon-set habitats at your own pace
1,575 reviews · 4.7 rating

Entry includedFamily friendly

San Diego Zoo Admission Ticket

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.7 (1,575)

$78View tour

Take this tour to unlock 2 landmark quests

Old Town San Diego

Balboa Park

Loop through downtown, Old Town and Balboa Park
Get off at any stop and rejoin later
1,565 reviews · 4.7 rating

Hop-on hop-offNarrated

Hop-on Hop-off Narrated Trolley Tour

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.7 (1,565)

$57View tour

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

San Diego Harbor Cruise

Cruise past the USS Midway and the downtown skyline
See harbor seals and the Coronado Bridge from the water
1,476 reviews · 4.6 rating

Boat tourSkyline views

Harbor Cruise

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.6 (1,476)

$37View tour

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

San Diego Harbor Cruise

Drive the streets then splash into the bay
See the harbor and city sights from land and water
773 reviews · 4.7 rating

Amphibious busGuided

SEAL City Tour by Amphibious Bus

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.7 (773)

$56View tour

Take this tour to unlock 2 landmark quests

La Jolla Cove

Coronado Beach

Cover the city highlights and coastal beaches in one day
Stop at La Jolla Cove and Coronado Beach
70 reviews · 4.8 rating

GuidedSmall group

City and Beaches Guided Highlights Tour

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.8 (70)

$105View tour

Souvenirs

Craft beer six-pack

USD 12–206-pack · estimate

San Diego is one of the best-known craft beer cities in the United States, and local breweries like these are a big part of its identity.

Where: Stone Brewing, Ballast Point

Check the packaging date on the can or bottle, since fresh beer tastes best, and ask staff which ones travel well.

Flights

Hotels

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Luggage storage

Store your bags in San DiegoDrop luggage at nearby shops and hotels · Bounce

Cost of a day

Exchange rate

Getting in

Getting around

Weather by month

Climate

Landmarks 14

Must-see · 8

San Diego Zoo

Balboa Park

USS Midway Museum

La Jolla Cove

Coronado Beach

Cabrillo National Monument

Old Town San Diego

San Diego Harbor Cruise

Cultural

Park 1

Statue 1

Old Town 1

Museum 1

University 1

Natural

Beach 2

Activities

Amusement Park 4

Festival 1

Cruise Tour 1

Zoo 1

Day trips from San Diego

Coronado · 21 min by bus

What to see

Good to know

Oceanside · 54 min by train

What to see

Good to know

Temecula · 1 h 09 by road

What to see

Good to know

Plans

La Jolla Cove

University of California, San Diego (UCSD) Landmark quest

Liberty Public Market

Coronado Beach Landmark quest

Sunset Cliffs

San Diego Zoo Landmark quest

Balboa Park

Gaslamp Quarter walk

Qdoba Landmark quest

Cabrillo National Monument

San Diego Harbor Cruise Landmark quest

Liberty Public Market

Sunset Cliffs

La Jolla Cove

University of California, San Diego (UCSD) Landmark quest

Jack in the Box Landmark quest

Belmont Park Landmark quest

Sunset Cliffs

San Diego Zoo Landmark quest

Balboa Park

Gaslamp Quarter walk

Cabrillo National Monument

Liberty Public Market

San Diego Harbor Cruise Landmark quest

Sunset Cliffs

San Diego Harbor Cruise Landmark quest

Gaslamp Quarter walk

Qdoba Landmark quest

La Jolla Cove

University of California, San Diego (UCSD) Landmark quest

Liberty Public Market

Sunset Cliffs

Coronado Beach Landmark quest

Jack in the Box Landmark quest

San Diego Zoo Landmark quest

Balboa Park

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

USS Midway Museum

San Diego Harbor Cruise Landmark quest

Coronado Beach Landmark quest