Itinerary for 5 day trip to California

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 , , , and Stanford. Buckle up for a whirlwind tour!

Day 1: Explore

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 . Take a stroll through the beautiful campus, and don’t miss the iconic 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 . 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: and

Morning:

After breakfast, drive to (about 20 minutes from Berkeley). Explore the campus and visit the 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 . Spend the afternoon wine tasting at some of the famous vineyards. 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: and Palo Alto

Morning:

Head to after breakfast. Explore the stunning campus, including the and the .

Afternoon:

For lunch, stop by 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 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: and Santa Monica

Morning:

Drive down to Los Angeles and start your day at . Explore the campus and visit the 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 . 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 in downtown LA for a variety of food options.
Spend the afternoon exploring —check out the Walk of Fame, , and maybe even hike up to the for a great view of the sign.

Evening:

For your final dinner, treat yourself at in the Arts District, known for its incredible Italian cuisine.
If you have energy left, catch a show at the 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! 🌟