San Diego County has no shortage of things to do and places to see. San Diego’s Little Italy has been around since the 1920s. At the time, it provided residential living space as well as business space to Italian immigrants and families. This lively neighborhood with a rich history of Italian culture has evolved into a bustling area, preserving its cultural heritage while embracing the diverse nature of San Diego. 

Now Little Italy San Diego creates a community of both Italian and non-Italian businesses and business owners. Saturday mornings are particularly busy thanks to the Little Italy Mercato and weekend festivities.

Things to Do in Little Italy San Diego

• Check out the Little Italy landmark sign. The Little Italy sign address is 1731 India St, San Diego, CA 92101.
• Explore the Neighborhood by walking around.
• Walk along India Street.
• Relax by the fountain at Piazza Della Famiglia.
• Attend Events in Little Italy San Diego. There are plenty of events throughout the year.
• Go to mass at Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church.
• You can also browse the Little Italy Association of San Diego website to learn more about the neighborhood.

Grab a Bite to Eat in San Diego Little Italy

The streets are lined with traditional trattorias, cozy cafes, gelato shops, and other small businesses, enticing visitors with tantalizing aromas and authentic flavors. 

The Little Italy neighborhood in San Diego is a fantastic hub filled with Italian cuisine, cultural events, and plenty of things to do. There are several restaurants where you can find farm fresh produce, delicious food and Italian food, pizza, sandwiches, and more. 

• Check Out happy hours at Little Italy San Diego's Italian restaurants.
• Book Little Italy Walking Tour with Wine Tasting.

Stop by the San Diego Little Italy Food Hall

Get gelato or take a gander at the different options. Little Italy Food Hall has different stations so you can find a little something for each person in your party. 

• Ambrigio15
• Bobboi Natural Gelato
• Coocoo's Nest
• Graze by Sam
• Little Italy Food Hall Bar
• Mein St. Asian Kitchen
• Not Not Tacos
• Olala Crepes
• Samburgers
• The Mini Donut Company

Shop the Little Italy Mercato

You can find the Little Italy Mercato Farmer's Market every Saturday from 8 AM to 2 PM as well as every Wednesday from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM, year-round, rain or shine. There are loads of vendors selling produce, flowers, eggs, meat, fish, baked goods, groceries, crafts, products, and local food that you can support. The Mercato farmers market is 3 blocks, located from Kettner Blvd to State Street.

Explore Little Italy's Waterfront Park 

Located at 1600 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101 Waterfront Park is a public park that has spray fountains, grassy areas, and lots of space. This large space is often home to different events and festivals.

• Take your pup to Little Italy Dog Park.
• Head to Amici Park at 1660 Union Street, San Diego, CA 92101.
• Art Galleries in Little Italy San Diego
• Visit San Diego Firehouse Museum 
• Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tours 

Is Little Italy Considered Downtown San Diego?

Yes, Little Italy is in the downtown San Diego area, close to the Embarcadero. India Street runs through the heart of Little Italy. Downtown is a thriving area with a few neighborhoods. According to the San Diego tourism website, downtown SD consists of the Gaslamp Quarter, Embarcadero, Little Italy, East Village, and Barrio Logan. Little Italy is bordered by West Laurel Street, West Ash Street, the I-5, Front Street, San Diego Bay, and the Pacific Highway.

Is Little Italy San Diego Safe at Night?

Just like most places, keep your wits about you.

What are the best hotels to stay in Little Italy San Diego? 

Hotels

• Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Downtown 
• Hotel Republic San Diego Autograph Collection 
• Best Western Plus Inn Bayside 
• La Pensione Hotel 

San Diego Art Walk

If you're in the area you can also visit Seaport Village, Downtown San Diego, the historic Gaslamp Quarter, Balboa Park, and other fun spots nearby.

• Stroll through the neighborhood to admire colorful murals, public art installations, and unique boutique shops.

San Diego Little Italy

From the Little Italy landmark sign to lobster rolls, Little Italy is the perfect place to explore during your trip to San Diego County. For generations, Italian families and businesses have made this area their home.