With so much packed into one city, it helps to have a shortlist. Here are the attractions that consistently make every San Diego itinerary.
- Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo
- USS Midway Museum on the waterfront
- La Jolla Cove and the sea lion colony
- Gaslamp Quarter for dining and nightlife
- Sunset Cliffs Natural Park at golden hour
- Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
- Coronado Beach and the Hotel del Coronado
- Seaport Village along the harbor
- Whale watching or a harbor cruise
- Cabrillo National Monument for panoramic views
Most visitors can comfortably cover 4 to 5 of these in a long weekend, or the full list over five to six days.