Little Italy Travel Guide
San Diego
Visit Little Italy
Popular places to visit
Waterfront Park
After visiting Waterfront Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in San Diego. Stroll along the area's waterfront or experience its fascinating museums.
Maritime Museum of San Diego
This impressive collection of nine marine vessels includes sailing boats, ferries, submarines and yachts.
San Diego Zoo
See nature up-close and personal at one of the country’s largest and most educational zoos.
Petco Park
Purchase a hot dog and watch the San Diego Padres, California’s southernmost Major League Baseball team, play on their home field.
Balboa Park
Culture and nature converge in this diverse park located in the heart of the city.
SeaWorld
Animal interaction, entertaining rides and informative exhibits are all on offer at this family favorite destination.
Things to do
USS Midway Museum with Direct-to-Gate
LEGOLAND® California Resort
Oceanside Whale and Dolphin Watching Adventures
City Cruises San Diego: Signature Dinner Cruise
City Cruises San Diego: Premier Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise
San Diego Explorer Pass: Save up to 50 Percent - Includes USS Midway
Top hotels in Little Italy
Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown Little Italy
"Rooms and hotel were very clean. Location was perfect with many options for dining and going for walks. We will definitely stay here again."
Reviewed on 23 Jun 2026
Hampton Inn San Diego-Downtown
"Great hotel no complaints everything is good Breakfast good actually they have a waffle maker A+ 😁😁"
Reviewed on 24 Jun 2026
Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Downtown/Bayside
"Hospitable staff !"
Reviewed on 22 Jun 2026
Porto Vista Hotel Downtown
"Room was clean and spacious with a comfortable bed and no significant noise. Staff all friendly and attentive from welcome to departure."
Reviewed on 25 Jun 2026
Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego
"No Regrets about this trip at all- and I slept like the dead- thank you!"
Reviewed on 24 Jun 2026
Wyndham San Diego Bayside
"This hotel is showing its age and smelled "musty." It clearly used to be very nice but is showing the signs of it being a while since it was built. Overall, a decent place to stay at a reasonable price point. The airport shuttle is a great amenity and the onsite restaurants were very good."
Reviewed on 23 Jun 2026
Where to stay in Little Italy
Downtown San Diego
Known for its fantastic nightlife, fascinating museums and beautiful waterfront views, there's plenty to explore in Downtown San Diego. Top attractions like Petco Park and Port of San Diego are major draws. Catch the metro at Civic Center Station or Civic Center Station to see more of the city.
Pacific Beach
The stunning beaches and fantastic nightlife are just a few highlights of Pacific Beach. Make a stop by Mission Bay or Pacific Beach while you're exploring the area.
Mission Beach
If you're spending some time in Mission Beach, Mission Beach and Mission Bay are top sights worth seeing.
Gaslamp Quarter
Cosy bars interesting history and top sights from Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House to Lyceum Theatre – discover Gaslamp Quarter, a destination also famous for its shopping.
Mission Bay
If you're spending some time in Mission Bay, Mission Bay and Mission and Pacific Beaches are top sights worth seeing.
