5 day itinerary for California

Itinerary

California is such a vibrant state with a mix of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and, of course, some of the best universities in the country. Let’s craft a fun and engaging 5-day itinerary that includes visits to UC Berkeley, UC Davis, UCLA, and Stanford. Buckle up for a whirlwind tour!

## Day 1: Explore UC Berkeley

Morning:

• Start your day with a hearty breakfast at La Mediterranee in Berkeley. Their Mediterranean-inspired dishes are a great way to fuel up!
• After breakfast, head to UC Berkeley. Take a stroll through the beautiful campus, and don’t miss the iconic Sather Tower (Campanile) for stunning views of the Bay Area.

Afternoon:

• Grab lunch at Cheeseboard Pizza—a local favorite! They serve delicious vegetarian pizzas and have a great vibe.
• Post-lunch, visit the Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive (BAMPFA). It’s a fantastic place to soak in some culture.

Evening:

• For dinner, check out Gather for a farm-to-table experience.
• If you’re up for it, catch a show at the Berkeley Repertory Theatre or enjoy a casual evening at Telegraph Avenue, where you can explore shops and street performers.

## Day 2: UC Davis and Napa Valley

Morning:

• After breakfast, drive to UC Davis (about 20 minutes from Berkeley). Explore the campus and visit the UC Davis Arboretum for a peaceful walk among beautiful gardens.

Afternoon:

• For lunch, try Mikuni Sushi in Davis for some fresh sushi.
• After lunch, take a short drive to Napa Valley. Spend the afternoon wine tasting at some of the famous vineyards. Domaine Chandon is a great spot for sparkling wine!

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at Bistro Don Giovanni in Napa, known for its Italian cuisine and lovely outdoor seating.
• If you have time, take a sunset hot air balloon ride for breathtaking views of the vineyards!

## Day 3: Stanford University and Palo Alto

Morning:

• Head to Stanford University after breakfast. Explore the stunning campus, including the Hoover Tower and the Cantor Arts Center.

Afternoon:

• For lunch, stop by The Stanford Shopping Center where you can find a variety of dining options. Try Maggiano’s Little Italy for a hearty meal.
• After lunch, take a stroll through Palo Alto. Visit the Palo Alto Art Center or just enjoy the charming downtown area.

Evening:

• Dinner at The Sea by Alexander’s Steakhouse for a fine dining experience.
• If you’re in the mood, check out a local event or concert happening in the area!

## Day 4: UCLA and Santa Monica

Morning:

• Drive down to Los Angeles and start your day at UCLA. Explore the campus and visit the Fowler Museum for some fascinating exhibits.

Afternoon:

• For lunch, head to In-N-Out Burger for a classic California experience (you can’t visit without trying it!).
• After lunch, make your way to Santa Monica Pier. Enjoy the beach, take a ride on the Ferris wheel, or just relax by the ocean.

Evening:

• Dinner at The Lobster for some fresh seafood with a view of the Pacific.
• End your day with a stroll along the beach or check out the vibrant nightlife in Santa Monica.

## Day 5: Explore Los Angeles

Morning:

• Start your day with breakfast at The Griddle Cafe—famous for its oversized pancakes!
• After breakfast, visit the Getty Center for stunning art and architecture, plus amazing views of LA.

Afternoon:

• For lunch, head to Grand Central Market in downtown LA for a variety of food options.
• Spend the afternoon exploring Hollywood—check out the Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre, and maybe even hike up to the Griffith Observatory for a great view of the Hollywood sign.

Evening:

• For your final dinner, treat yourself at Bestia in the Arts District, known for its incredible Italian cuisine.
• If you have energy left, catch a show at the Hollywood Bowl or enjoy a nightcap at a rooftop bar with a view of the city skyline.

And there you have it! A fun-filled 5-day itinerary that balances university visits with some of California’s best attractions. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌟