San Diego’s most worthwhile city tours pack lots of sightseeing into efficient, well-organized excursions. Two standout favorites are the classic Old Town Trolley tour – perfect for first-timers wanting to hit all the main sights while learning the city’s history – and the amphibious SEAL tours, which combine city streets and bay views from an entertaining duck boat. For something more active, the downtown Segway tours earn top marks for their intimate small-group format and up-close access to the Gaslamp Quarter and waterfront. Those interested in Mexican culture will appreciate the Tijuana day trips, which include authentic street food tastings and local market visits. Let’s examine our favorite San Diego tours worth your vacation time and money.
Key Points
- San Diego offers private, customizable tours with expert guides, covering top attractions like Balboa Park and Old Town with flexible itineraries.
- Night Trolley Tours provide a 1.5-hour sightseeing experience showcasing the Gaslamp Quarter, Coronado Bridge, and city skyline.
- Unique SEAL City Tour combines land and sea exploration, featuring the USS Midway and local wildlife observation.
- Comprehensive City & Beach Tour includes stops at La Jolla, Coronado, Old Town, and Balboa Park, suitable for most travelers.
- Segway tours provide a unique perspective of the Gaslamp Quarter, Embarcadero, and Petco Park in an entertaining 2-hour experience.
Private Customizable Iconic City Highlights Tour – Cultural, Historic, Shuttled
Although the Private Customizable Iconic City Highlights Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of San Diego’s cultural and historic landmarks, it caters to the unique preferences of each group.
Starting at 9:30 am, the tour provides private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, with an expert guide, Julie, available for photographs.
The tour covers key highlights, including Balboa Park and Old Town, with the flexibility to adjust the itinerary based on guests’ mobility.
Priced from $455 for up to 4 people, the tour includes bottled water but excludes gratuities and child car seats.
With a 5-star rating and no negative reviews, this customizable tour offers an immersive and personalized experience of San Diego’s iconic sights.
Read our full review: Private Customizable Iconic City Highlights Tour – Cultural, Historic, Shuttled Review
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San Diego: City Lights Night Trolley Tour
The San Diego: City Lights Night Trolley Tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife and iconic landmarks.
Priced from Kč 1,092 per person, the 1.5-hour tour takes visitors through the Gaslamp Quarter, Balboa Park, and across the Coronado Bridge, providing spectacular views of the city skyline.
Highlights include a photo stop at Coronado’s Ferry Landing and the chance to see illuminated attractions along the Embarcadero.
With a 4.6/5 overall rating based on 337 reviews, the tour receives praise for its knowledgeable guide, comfortable transportation, and must-see sights.
Travelers can conveniently book now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Read our full review: San Diego: City Lights Night Trolley Tour Review
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San Diego City Lights Night Tour
This 1.5-hour San Diego City Lights Night Tour offers travelers an opportunity to explore the vibrant nightlife and iconic landmarks of the city.
Departing from Seaport Village, the tour takes guests through the Gaslamp Quarter, Balboa Park, Coronado Bridge, and Embarcadero, with a 20-minute stop at the Coronado Ferry Landing.
Along the way, travelers can admire the stunning skyline and city lights while learning about the local history and attractions from knowledgeable guides.
The tour accommodates up to 38 people and is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
With free cancellation and rescheduling options, this night tour is a convenient and visually stunning way to experience San Diego’s urban charm.
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San Diego: SEAL City Tour by Amphibious Bus
Embarking on the San Diego SEAL City Tour by Amphibious Bus, visitors embark on a unique sightseeing experience that blends land and sea.
This 100-minute tour takes them through the city’s landmarks, including the USS Midway, the Star of India, and Shelter Island, while providing opportunities to observe local wildlife like seals and seabirds.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour offers insights into San Diego’s rich history and culture.
With high ratings from past customers, the tour provides excellent value for money.
Travelers should arrive 30 minutes early and come prepared with a jacket, as departures may vary based on the season.
Read our full review: San Diego: SEAL City Tour by Amphibious Bus Review
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San Diego: The Most Extensive City & Beach Tour
San Diego’s “The Most Extensive City & Beach Tour” offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s top attractions.
With 117 reviews and a 95% recommendation rate, this small-group tour provides an excellent overview for first-time visitors. Priced at $99.99 per person, the tour includes stops at La Jolla, Coronado, The Old Town, and Balboa Park, along with historical insights and visuals.
Though not wheelchair-accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers with moderate fitness levels. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable and humorous guide, George, though some suggest more time at certain locations.
Read our full review: San Diego: The Most Extensive City & Beach Tour Review
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San Diego: City Segway Tour With Snack and Water
Visitors seeking an alternative way to explore San Diego’s highlights can consider the City Segway Tour. Priced from $199 per person, this 2-hour tour takes participants through the Gaslamp Quarter, Embarcadero, and Petco Park, providing insights into the city’s rich history.
Suitable for beginners, the tour traverses flat terrain and includes Segway rental, safety equipment, and a professional guide. Snacks and beverages are also provided, and participants can enjoy the Urban Trees outdoor art exhibit.
With a minimum age of 12 and a meeting point downtown, this tour offers an engaging and unique way to experience San Diego’s top sights, earning a 4.6/5 rating from previous customers.
Read our full review: San Diego: City Segway Tour With Snack and Water Review
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Private Instagrammable San Diego Tour – The City Essentials
This private Instagrammable San Diego tour takes travelers on an immersive journey through the city’s iconic landmarks and picturesque spots.
Priced at $485 per group (up to 4 people), the tour includes an expert photography guide, bottled water, and private transportation. Guests will be picked up from their downtown hotel or accommodation and taken to the meeting point at Piazza della Famiglia.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. Families should note that child car seats aren’t provided, and children can’t sit on laps.
With free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours before the start, this tour offers flexibility and convenience for capturing San Diego’s visual treasures.
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San Diego: City and Beaches Guided Highlights Tour
The San Diego: City and Beaches Guided Highlights Tour offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s renowned landmarks and stunning coastal sceneries.
Priced at $107.49 per person, the 7-hour tour includes visits to Coronado, Balboa Park, Old Town San Diego, La Jolla Cove, and Mount Soledad, with a scenic 3-hour drive between stops.
The tour departs from the Santa Fe Depot, with pickup at 9:45 am. Inclusions cover a bus tour, a guide, and bottled water.
Restrictions apply for certain groups, and the tour has received an impressive 4.8/5 overall rating based on 38 reviews, highlighting its informative guides, good pacing, and convenience for short stays in San Diego.
Read our full review: San Diego: City and Beaches Guided Highlights Tour Review
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Hidden Nature Walks in the City Private Tour
Tucked amid San Diego’s bustling city streets, the Hidden Nature Walks in the City Private Tour whisks travelers off the beaten path and into the serene natural oases that dot the urban landscape.
Priced from $295 for a group of up to four, this private excursion features an expert guide, Julie, who leads guests on a journey through San Diego’s hidden gems.
Along the way, they’ll enjoy bottled water and complimentary transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
With a 5.0-star rating from previous visitors, this tour is a must for nature lovers seeking an off-the-grid San Diego experience.
Just be prepared for moderate physical activity and potential discomfort in the midsize vehicle.
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San Diego: City Highlights Guided E-Bike Tour
Embarking on a pedal-powered adventure, the San Diego: City Highlights Guided E-Bike Tour whisks travelers through the vibrant heart of the city.
Covering key landmarks like the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego Bay, and Balboa Park, this 2.5-hour tour offers an engaging mix of historical insights and cultural exploration.
Riders enjoy the freedom of e-bikes, with licensed guides available in English and Spanish.
From the iconic USS Midway to the serene Japanese Friendship Garden, the tour’s curated stops showcase San Diego’s diverse appeal.
With a focus on safety and personalized experiences, this tour provides an excellent value for those seeking an immersive and eco-friendly way to discover the city.
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From San Diego: Tijuana City Guided Tour and Food Tasting
This guided tour from San Diego to Tijuana provides an immersive experience exploring the vibrant culture and diverse cuisine of Mexico’s border city.
Over 7 hours, the tour takes visitors to top attractions like the Tijuana Cultural Center and Avenida Revolucion. Guests can savor local specialties, including ceviche tostadas, tacos, and churros, as well as craft beer and tequila tastings.
The tour also visits Tijuana’s beautiful beaches and the US-Mexico wall. With a live guide available in English and Spanish, the tour offers a comprehensive introduction to this dynamic city.
Pickup and drop-off in Old Town, San Diego, are included, along with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: From San Diego: Tijuana City Guided Tour and Food Tasting Review
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San Diego: City Highlights Tour With Hotel Pickup
For those seeking a rundown of San Diego’s top attractions, the City Highlights Tour with Hotel Pickup offers an immersive experience.
Priced from €98.40 per person, this 6-hour tour includes hotel pickup and a live English-speaking guide. Guests will explore La Jolla’s beaches, the historical Old Town, the vibrant Gaslamp Quarter, and Coronado.
The tour also includes a visit to Balboa Park and a stroll through Little Italy’s eateries. Traveling in an air-conditioned van, the tour is wheelchair accessible, and all entry fees, water, snacks, and tips are included.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, this tour provides a well-rounded introduction to the city’s highlights.
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Recap
San Diego offers a diverse range of city tours, from private customizable tours to nighttime trolley rides and amphibious bus excursions. Whether you’re interested in cultural and historic highlights, beach and nature walks, or even a guided tour to Tijuana, there’s something for every traveler. With so many options, visitors can easily find a tour that suits their interests and preferences.