Little Italy San Diego

The Basics

At 48 square blocks, Little Italy San Diego is the largest in the United States and is best seen on foot. The eclectic neighborhood’s charming sidewalk cafés and one-of-a-kind specialty stores are reasons enough to head to this district, with locals and visitors alike strolling the streets to get a feel for the mom-and-pop restaurants, art galleries, and retail shops that make the northwest end of downtown San Diego so famous. On Saturday mornings from 9am to 1pm, the Little Italy Mercato Farmers’ Market draws crowds to its stalls offering fresh, California-grown produce, trendy foods, and crafts. Many visitors choose to eat and drink their way through this Old World slice of San Diego—a Little Italy food tour is a great way to explore the area.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Travelers into food and fun will enjoy Little Italy’s culinary and entertainment options.

• The heart of Little Italy is the one-way India Street, with cars able to travel only south-to-north. Most people enter Little Italy from the corner of Ash and India streets.

• Look for the landmark Little Italy sign arched over India Street at the corner of India and Cedar streets in the heart of Little Italy.

• Little Italy is a pedestrian-friendly area prime for walking tours.

How to Get There

Little Italy is located on a hill in the northwest end of downtown San Diego, a few blocks away from the Embarcadero. The district’s geographic boundaries are Union Street on the east, Harbor Drive on the west, Ash Street on the south, and Laurel Street on the north. The San Diego Trolley stops two blocks from the heart of Little Italy.

When to Get There

Little Italy is a city neighborhood, with varied opening times for the different businesses contained within it.

Festivals in San Diego’s Little Italy

Little Italy San Diego is known for several fun festivals, including Little Italy Festa! in the fall and the Mission Federal ArtWalk every spring. Halloween time brings out the trick-or-treaters, and during the holiday season there’s a tree lighting and a Christmas village.

Ways to explore

Little Italy San Diego is best explored on foot. To get the lowdown on the area’s highlights—especially when it comes to food and wine—come here on a walking tour. Food–themed tours offer multiple tastings at locally owned restaurants and the Little Italy Mercato Farmers’ Market. Some tours combine wine tastings with Italian food samples. You can also see this area—as well as other downtown neighborhoods—on scooter, bus, Segway, or car tours. The city’s hop-on hop-off trolley tours also stop nearby.

Accessibility

The sidewalks in the district are generally wide and flat; however, it’s best to check restaurants and attractions for accessibility information.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, contactless payment method, sun protection

What to wear

Casual layered clothing, comfortable shoes

Not allowed

Littering, drinking alcohol in public places

Amenities

Restaurants, bars, shops, restrooms

Address

Little Italy is located on a hill in the northwest end of downtown San Diego, a few blocks away from the Embarcadero. It’s easy to get here by car, or you can get the San Diego Trolley.

Driving

From San Diego International Airport, travel 10 minutes along N Harbor Drive, turn onto W Grape Street, then turn left onto India Street, where there are several paid Ace Parking lots.

Public transportation

It’s fast and efficient to use the San Diego Trolley’s Green or Blue Line. Get off at the County Center/Little Italy stop for walkable access to the heart of Little Italy.

Best times to visit

Visit in the morning for a calmer stroll, with shops and cafés just opening before the afternoon rush brings heavier foot traffic.

Best days to visit

Midmorning on Wednesday or Saturday are prime, as that's when the “Mercato” farmers market takes place.

Best months to visit

Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer comfortable weather, smaller crowds, and lovely weather for outdoor dining.

Special events

The neighborhood has events year-round, including the Taste of Little Italy in May and November and the Little Italy Festa in October.