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How to See Los Angeles in 3 Days – the Perfect Itinerary

Last Modified: March 21, 2024 //  by  Anda //   58 Comments

If you only have 3 days in LA and are wondering where to start, you’ve come to the right place. As a local, I can give you some good advice and tips for visiting the city. I can also help you plan the perfect 3 days Los Angeles itinerary that will leave you with lots of great memories. 

Table of Contents

About This Los Angeles Itinerary

L.a. itinerary day 1, l.a. itinerary day 2, l.a. itinerary day 3, how to move around l.a., best time to visit los angeles, how to save money on a 3-day trip to los angeles, need a place to stay.

It’s hard to know where to begin when you visit a large city like Los Angeles. Unlike other metropolises around the world, L.A’s attractions are spread all over. If you are coming  from a smaller place, you will most likely feel overwhelmed here.

One thing to consider when planning your Los Angeles itinerary is the notorious L.A. traffic which will limit your ability to cover a lot of ground in these 3 days. That means you probably can’t put together a list of 20 some-odd objectives and expect to hit them all.

With the itinerary below you’ll be able to see some of the L.A’s most iconic places, without rushing. Trying to squeeze more into these three days will only drain your energy and leave you tired and confused.

Some of the places that I included in this list are totally free, which is always a plus. So here is your Los Angeles trip plan:

3-Day Los Angeles Itinerary

Day 1: Santa Monica Pier, Malibu and Venice Beach Day 2: Getty Center and the Griffith Observatory Day 3: Hollywood and Downtown Area

Santa Monica is one of the most romantic getaways in California . The 72 miles of coastline and approximately 330 days of sunshine are a magnet for the visitors of LA. Besides, the coastal areas are among the most scenic places in Southern California.

In all, there are over 60 beaches on this incredible stretch of coastline. Therefore, I think it’s best if you start your Los Angeles itinerary at the beach. The closest and most popular ones to downtown LA are Santa Monica, Venice and Malibu.

Stroll on the Santa Monica Beach and Pier (free)

You can start your 3 days itinerary at the Santa Monica Beach, just a short 20-minute drive from Downtown Los Angeles. The beach stretches along either side of the historic Santa Monica Pier.

There is plenty of parking, restrooms and beach side cafés along the beach. The paved path that follows the shoreline all the way to Venice Beach is a paradise for rollerblading, biking, or walking.

There are many small shops where you can rent bikes, rollerblades, boogie boards, chairs, and umbrellas. You can either lay down on the beach, or grab a bicycle and cruise from the Pier to Venice Beach and back.

The most popular spot in Santa Monica is the Pier at the foot of Colorado Avenue. This bustling wooden wharf is where the action is. With its shops, small restaurants, arcade, roller coaster and giant Ferris wheel, the historic Santa Monica Pier continues to be the main attraction in Los Angeles for families with kids .

Walk (bike, or rollerblade) to Venice Beach (free)

Just South of Santa Monica is one of Los Angeles’s most popular and eclectic places: Venice Beach. However, this beach is a mixed bag that isn’t for everyone. If you want to experience the bohemian spirit of Los Angeles, you should definitely come here. There are so many things to do on Venice Beach!

Be advised however that the free-spirited Venice Broadwalk may shock you with its colorful graffiti, street performers, and funky shops. You will see some things that you’ve never seen before and will shake your head. But you may very well find all these very entertaining.

I love Venice Beach, always have. It has an indescribable vibe that I have only experienced here. When we were younger we used to rollerblade from here all the way to Santa Monica and back.  If you enjoy people watching, then this is the place to be. It is for sure one of the most unique beach-going experiences you’ll have.

Drive to Malibu (free)

Malibu is a must, no matter how many days you have in L.A. This is where the famous Pacific Coast Highway drive starts. Here is where you’ll see some of the most picturesque stretches of beach in Southern California.

The beaches in Malibu are however very different from the ones in Santa Monica or Venice. Some of them are private, so they allow alcohol on the beach (Paradise Cove), but they are notorious for the huge parking fees.

In Malibu you will find surf beaches and stretches of shore with tide pools, caves and strange rock formations (Leo Carillo). If you want to explore the caves and rock formations, you should come prepared with good shoes because you’ll have to walk down a big bluff. 

Malibu beaches offer a truly laidback experience where you can just lay in the sand and dip in the ocean. And if you are in Los Angeles when the whales migrate (Dec.-Jan, April-May) you’re likely to see some gray whales, dolphins and seals here. Especially if you visit Malibu early morning. 

TOURS WE RECOMMEND:

You should make your second day in Los Angeles a museum day. But not just any museum! The Getty Center is a more than just a museum and is a very impressive place to visit. You don’t have to be a huge art or museum devotee to fall in love with this iconic site.

The Getty Center (not at the same location as the Getty Villa) sits high up on a hill overlooking the city and is connected to the parking lot at the bottom by a funicular.

The museum has numerous galleries that spread out in multiple buildings. The Center holds the best and most valuable art collection in Los Angeles.

In addition to its extensive artwork collection and unique architecture, the Getty Center features an impressive garden. The Central Garden, designed by artist Robert Irwin, sprawls over 134,000 square feet of green space. You can easily spend an entire day here, admiring the outstanding art collections. 

There are several options for lunch at the Getty Center. If you’re looking for a substantial lunch, there are two on-site cafés and a fine dining restaurant.  Or you can just grab a bite between the exhibits at one of the several snack carts around the museum courtyard.

LACMA vs the Getty Center

I sometimes get asked whether I would recommend the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) or the Getty Center. This is a difficult decision to make since they are outstanding art museums. If you are strictly interested in art, then you should go to LACMA as it has a more comprehensive art collection. However, I would choose Getty over LACMA simply because it also has an outstanding location, beautiful gardens, and more varied art collections. Note that the Getty Villa is a separate museum where their antiquities are kept. 

Visit the Griffith Observatory (free!)

You can end up your 2nd day in L.A. with a sunset visit at the Griffith Observatory. The Observatory features space-related exhibits, star shows in the planetarium, and a telescope.

Admission to the Observatory building, grounds, and telescopes is always free. However, you will have to buy tickets for the planetarium show.

The grounds of the Observatory are very beautiful, featuring some terraces from where you get a bird-eye view of the entire valley. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Santa Monica from up here.

The best time to visit the Observatory is the late afternoon towards the evening when you can stick around to see the sunset and the city lights.

To get to the Griffith Observatory you can either rent a car , use public transportation, share a ride, bike, or walk via N Vermont Canyon Rd (2 miles). Parking near the Observatory costs $8.00 per hour, but is very limited. 

Don’t Miss the Hollywood Sign !

On the opposite hill, right across from the Griffith Observatory, you can catch an unobstructed view of the Hollywood Sign, one of the most iconic sights in Los Angeles.

The worldwide symbol of the U.S. movie industry has a very dull and uninteresting beginning. Many people believe the Hollywood Sign was part of a movie set, but it was actually an outdoor billboard for a real-estate development.

No Los Angeles itinerary would be complete without a visit to the famous Hollywood. As touristy as this place may be, it should be part of your L.A. list of attractions. Especially if this is your first time in the city! 

Hollywood enjoys an international reputation like no other place in the world. Although some parts of the area are undeniably derelict, Hollywood still sparkles with glamor. 

Walk the Sunset Strip (free!)

You can start your last day in Los Angeles with a walk on the famous Sunset Strip. The strip is the 1.5 -mile stretch of Sunset Boulevard that passes through West Hollywood. Sunset Boulevard extends from Hollywood all the way to Beverly Hills.

The Sunset Strip is home to flashy boutiques, high end restaurants and nightclubs, as well as huge, colorful billboards. And it’s not impossible to bump into a celebrity at one of the hotel bars in West Hollywood, or in one of the high-end boutiques on Rodeo Drive, in Beverly Hills.

Visit the Chinese Theater (free!)

The Chinese Theater became famous for being the venue of the  Academy Awards  ceremony from 1944-1946. But most visitors are lured here by the celebrity handprints and footprints in the concrete of the theater’s forecourt.

The tradition began during the theater construction, when one of the Hollywood legends at the time accidentally stepped into the wet cement outside the building.

Instead of covering the imprint, theater owner Sid Grauman encouraged other celebrities to repeat the “mistake.” And so it all began. The courtyard is usually cluttered with tourists trying to snap a shot of the famous imprints. 

In 2013, after extensive renovations, the The Chinese Theater was turned into a grandiose 923-seater IMAX auditorium that projects stunning quality movies. If interested, you can still watch a movie in this iconic landmark.

Tour the Dolby Theater

Right next to the Chinese Theater on Hollywood Boulevard is Dolby Theater – the current and permanent home of the Academy Awards. Dolby Theatre opened its doors in 2001 as the Kodak Theatre . Its façade is at the front of the Hollywood & Highland Center, a nice shopping area with boutiques and souvenir shops.

You can take a guided tour of the theater all year round, except for the time leading up to the Academy Awards in February, when the Dolby Theater is off limits.

If the Oscars are your thing, you’ll find the tour very interesting. The guide will take you on the red carpet path that the celebrities follow from Hollywood Boulevard into the theatre. You’ll see the VIP Room, the Green Room and then you’ll go out onto the stage. You will also see where the actors seat while they wait to hear if their names will be called. 

Walk the Hollywood Walk of Fame (free!)

The Walk of Fame is an internationally recognized Hollywood icon. It encompasses over 2,600 five-pointed stars made of terrazzo and brass and embedded in the sidewalks along Hollywood Boulevard. 

The stars bear the names of famous musicians, actors, directors and producers and are given in recognition to achievements in the entertainment industry. 

What began as a Chamber of Commerce marketing tactic, is today one of Los Angeles’s biggest magnets. It attracts an estimated 10 million visitors each year. You can read more about the history of the Walk of Fame  here .

Unfortunately, the Walk’s fame  (pun intended) ruins its appeal. It is always crowded with costumed characters offering to take pictures with the visitors, illegal street vendors handing out CDs and tickets, and shady characters.

Most people who ever visited the celebrated Walk of Fame will probably tell you it’s not worth your time. And truth be told, walking the entire 15 blocks (1.3 miles) from east to west on Hollywood Boulevard is not something I would recommend.

However, you shouldn’t skip this famous landmark if you are in Los Angeles for 3 days. Even if you only take a few steps up and down the street to see what the buzz is all about. 

Here are some more popular activities in Hollywood:

• Hollywood: Highlights Guided Walking Tour and Museum Visit
• Los Angeles: Hollywood Celebrity Homes Tour
• Los Angeles: The Official Hollywood Sign Hike

Tour the Disney Concert Hall (free)

Disney Hall has been one of L.A.’s top architectural landmarks since it opened in 2003. Designed by architect Frank Gehry, the monumental structure resembles a sailing ship.

Audio tours are the most comprehensive way to explore the Walt Disney Concert Hall. The self-guided audio tour takes you through the concert hall’s history from conception to completion. The audio tour is complimentary for individuals or groups below 14 people and takes about 50 minutes.

The places of interest in Los Angeles are as spread out, so you won’t be able walk between them. Whether you have one, two, or three days in L.A. you’ll either have to rent a car , or use public transportation.

The best way to explore the city is definitely by car, but  driving in L.A. may be quite challenging. If you don’t want to face the city’s infernal traffic and tricky parking signs, you will be better off using public transportation. Plenty of Los Angeles neighborhoods are not only walkable, but connected to one another by train. The L.A. Metro system works good and has many stops.

By Public Transport

To use the Metro, purchase a TAP card at any Metro station from one of the vending machines.  The Red Line , which begins at the Union Station in downtown L.A, will take you to Los Feliz, Hollywood, and to Universal City (home of Universal Studios). 

The Purple Line  will take you through Koreatown, and  the Gold Line  goes through neighborhoods like Chinatown, Highland Park, and Little Tokyo.  The Expo Line  goes all the way to Santa Monica, just a short walk from the famous Santa Monica Pier and the beach.

Planning a 3 Day Los Angeles Itinerary

There are some  facts about Los Angeles  that you probably already know. But the first thing you should be aware of is that Los Angeles is MASSIVE! This fact pervades nearly all the advice that follows and will definitely influence your Los Angeles itinerary.

Los Angeles’s points of interest are spread quite far apart from each other, so don’t assume that you can figure out an itinerary as you go. Chances of stumbling upon a great site accidentally are quite slim.

Another important thing to know is that Los Angeles is very eclectic. It’s made up of hundreds of neighborhoods that look and feel quite different from each other.

Deciding what’s the best area to stay in Los Angeles as a visitor may be difficult. While Downtown L.A. is modern and contemporary, neighborhoods like Altadena, or North Hollywood, are way calmer and laid back.

In case you are asking yourself what would be the best time to travel to California , you should know there is no good or bad time for your trip. The weather is perfect almost year round and no matter when you visit, you’ll always have plenty to do in Los Angeles (even in December) .

However, you should be aware that during July and August temperatures sometimes climb up to 100ºF (or over!). That may be a concern for spending too much time outside (except for the beaches).

The area around Los Angeles is also full of natural parks and attractions, like the Vasquez Rocks Park, or Mormon Rocks, so if you have more than 3 days I suggest adding them to your itinerary as well.

Visiting L.A. is on many travelers’ bucket lists, but the costs involved scare many people away. The good news is that 3 days in Los Angeles won’t break the bank.

The best way to save money on sightseeing is to buy the Go Los Angeles Card . You can buy an all-inclusive card, or build-your-own. The all-inclusive card saves you up to 50% of the gate price for the attractions.

All you have to do is just pick the number of days you are in Los Angeles and you are ready to do unlimited sightseeing. The build-your-own card will save you only 20% of the gate ticket price, but you can choose to see only what interests you.

I hope this guide will help you make the most of your three day trip to L.A. and go home with some good memories. If you have more than 72 hours in the city, there are some great getaways from Los Angeles to consider

I wrote an in-depth post about the best areas to stay in Los Angeles as a tourist, so if you need more insight information you should check out this insider’s guide . There are many inexpensive hotels in the suburbs around L.A. that you can choose from. You can also choose to rent an entire house, or an apartment through AirBnB, or VRBO . If you want to check hotel prices in L.A. using the box below:

If you found this information helpful, please pin it to help others find the best itinerary for first time visitors to Los Angeles.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE:

A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Los Angeles How to Spend One Perfect Day in L.A. Hidden Treasures of Los Angeles Los Angeles County Arboretum

Anda is an award winning travel writer, avid globetrotter and passionate photographer. She is the voice behind "Travel Notes & Beyond," a collection of stories and travel impressions from her wanderings around the world. When she is not busy writing, traveling, or editing photographs, you can find her hiking in the foothills behind her house together with her husband and their dog.

Reader Interactions

April 7, 2024 at 8:58 am

Thanks for informative blog

Shikha Sharma

January 10, 2024 at 9:38 pm

Well-Written article! Your post is commendable. I am a travel-loving person and also I like to know more about different places. I don’t know about this place. I searched travel blogs and found this blog. This place looks very beautiful. I would like to add it to my bucket list.

July 1, 2023 at 1:00 am

Los Angeles would be a dream to visit! I wish i could visit in one day!

March 24, 2023 at 5:09 am

It was a very nice introduction article, you explained it in every detail.

C.M. Chamber

March 9, 2022 at 10:05 am

This article is very helpful! We are headed out in a week. Just wanted to ask rent a car or Uber/Lyft? We’re staying in Hollywood at a hotel so I’m debating the cost of parking/rental vs. Uber/Lyft. Any info is helpful thanks!

March 9, 2022 at 11:32 am

Renting a car in L.A. is pretty inconvenient. Gas is expensive, parking fees are huge, traffic is a nightmare! Even if you break even with Uber/Lyft, it’s still worth saving yourself the hassle of driving in Los Angeles.

Go Wander Wild

August 24, 2021 at 12:48 am

This Los Angeles guide is incredibly helpful. You’ve really thought through everything you need to know before planning a trip. Thank you for this helpful resource. Saving this guide for later!

August 24, 2021 at 8:55 am

Thank you for your helpful feedback.

March 3, 2022 at 9:36 pm

This is very helpful, great little weekend guide to a great la. Vacation thank you so much.😊✌

November 20, 2020 at 1:41 am

I absolutely love this post! So many great places to visit in Los Angeles. I can hardly wait for my trip.

February 13, 2020 at 7:35 am

This is an amazing itenarary and I will be following this when I visit LA for the first time in April. I just wanted to ask if you recommend any hotel or Air BnB which is family friendly and local to using Hollywood and all these attractions? x

February 13, 2020 at 10:54 am

Hi Taj, thank you for your nice comment. I’m really glad if my information was helpful to you. I don’t have a specific recommendation for you, as Los Angeles is such a huge area. However, I always use VRBO (Vacation Rentals By Owner) which is very similar to AirBnB. They have lower prices and don’t charge booking fees.For hotels and other resource recommendations, you can also check my Travel Resource Page . Hope you’ll find the information helpful.

October 26, 2019 at 9:33 pm

Hi I am going for the first time to LA for 3 days.In which area should i stay so that the itinerary listed above would be more convenient.i would be using public transportation. Any suggestion would be truly appreciated. Thanks.

Anda Galffy

October 28, 2019 at 5:05 am

Hi Sam, the best place for you is to stay in Santa Monica, or Pacific Palisades. It would be however more efficient if you could rent a car. While public transportation works all right, it’s more time consuming taking the bus.

Catherine Salvador Mendoza

September 19, 2019 at 3:53 am

Oh, Malibu! One of my dream beaches because of Rhianna! HAHA! Anyway, love the itinerary that the first day includes a beach. I’m a big fan of beaches and whenever I read posts and itis including beaches, makes me happy! LA is a place in the US I’ve been dreaming too, aside from New York! Great tips you got as well, I think having a car tho is the best way to be able to free roam!

September 18, 2019 at 6:54 pm

I didn’t realize that LA is so spread out, so it’s really helpful to have a suggested itinerary to focus on highlights. And it’s good to know that renting a car is the easiest to explore but that we should manage our expectations with it being very traffic heavy.

September 17, 2019 at 2:16 pm

I love the highlights of L.A. I love going to the beautiful beaches and shopping! LA is so fun! xo – Kam

September 16, 2019 at 10:37 pm

Great itinerary. Didn’t know there is a Venice beach there. Walk of Fame sounds interesting and makes me curious too. Thanks for highlighting the free things to do in LA.

Linda (LD Holland)

September 16, 2019 at 6:38 pm

This is a timely post. We are doing a cruise in and out of LA. So were wondering what to do when we arrive for a few days before the cruise. On our last visit we stayed in Santa Monica but it might be fun to return. We missed spending time in Malibu so maybe that would be a good place to visit. It would be great to head to the Griffith Observatory for a panoramic view. A good tip to head there at sunset. We will defiantly check out public transit. We really don’t want to drive in the city.

September 17, 2019 at 10:39 am

I strongly recommend driving up to the Observatory. It’s a great spot to admire the city from above.

September 16, 2019 at 1:58 pm

Great guide with all the LA highlights. It is a fascinating city with so much to do. When we first moved to Los Angeles, the size and scale of the city blew us away. Love how you have organized the itinerary into bite-sized chunks. Out of curiosity, is there any reason you left out the Hollywood Sign? This was on our to-do list when we first moved. Regardless, great post and agree driving is the best way to get around.

September 17, 2019 at 10:38 am

I didn’t leave it out. It’s actually included in the trip to the Griffith Observatory. You can see the sign from there. I don’t think it’s worth hiking to the actual sign itself if you only have 3 days in L.A.

September 15, 2019 at 8:31 pm

I need to get to Venice Beach and check out the free-spirited Venice Boardwalk. It does have such a bohemian vibe to it. I’ve only been to LA on a stopover so I haven’t seen many of these places except for the Walk of Fame.

September 17, 2019 at 10:40 am

Then it’s time for a return trip, Nicole.

September 15, 2019 at 7:39 pm

You got a great photo of downtown LA. I could spend weeks just hanging out at Santa Monica, Malibu and Venice. I went to Grad School in LA and would drive up to the Observatory and stare out at the city lights at night. LA is so big, It really is incredible

September 17, 2019 at 10:36 am

I didn’t know you lived in LA, Sherianne.

Elaine Masters

September 15, 2019 at 5:21 pm

Definitely some great advice here. I’m partial to some of the museums as there are many unique options. Love the idea of being a tourist in LA. Great pictures as always.

Nicole LaBarge

September 14, 2019 at 10:38 pm

I think the 72 miles of coastline is a big driver! I’ve only been to LA once but I want to go back to the the Santa Monica Pier and visit there. I loved the walk of Fame when I was there!

April 2, 2019 at 11:43 am

I haven’t been to the US yet, but I am sure when I make it to the US, I would like to visit Los Angeles. I didn’t know that renting a car is the best way to go around in LA. I also didn’t know how big LA is. It seems so huge. I usually see a lot of photos of Venice beach since many content creators live around by. Thanks for the piece. I found it so useful

April 2, 2019 at 3:09 am

It’s been nearly 20 years since my last visit to LA. I’d like to go back and do it properly. I didn’t realize that the Hollywood sign isn’t lit up at night and spent a lot of time trying to find it unsuccessfully in the dark after attending an awards show. So a return visit is due and I’d definitely like to see the Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach and finally actually see the Hollywood sign.

April 1, 2019 at 10:19 pm

This is the most comprehensive article introducing LA for first timers. I have not been there but for me, public transport any day. Helps me to do other things than watching for the cars on road :). Except probably for places not well connected, if any.

April 1, 2019 at 4:51 am

Massive indeed, and patience is vital. I have not taken the Metro in LA but think that is a huge tip! This a great itinerary and the Griffith Observatory is not to be missed

April 1, 2019 at 9:33 am

If you can drive, is better.

March 31, 2019 at 11:30 pm

I live in LA and have done all the above but I must say, there is so much to see/do here in LA and you have put some of the must do things together in this beautiful post on what to see as a tourist. All the places you’ve listed are the MUST do things for everyone who’s visiting LA

March 31, 2019 at 1:25 pm

I’ve been to L.A. a few times, including my senior trip, many moons ago. My step brother actually lives in Santa Monica. I’ve seen all of these things except the Observatory. If I even went back, I would go there for sure. When I went to Venice Beach, I couldn’t believe everything I was seeing. I was just 17 at that time. There was an outside gym then, full of muscle bound people. The crowds in L.A. are quite overwhelming to me though. Thanks for the introduction to the Observatory.

April 1, 2019 at 9:37 am

The Griffith Observatory is quite interesting to visit and it’s famous for its gorgeous views.

March 31, 2019 at 4:35 am

What a great guide to LA for first-timers. I have only visited Santa Monica, but would love to get to the Getty Center and the hand and foot prints at the Chinese theatre. I’ve wanted to visit the Griffith Observatory since seeing La La Land!

March 31, 2019 at 2:57 am

I never done LA before but hope to do it in the near future but for me, I think I would like to check out the beaches more than the touristy stuff. I am more into nature. Can you still hike up to the Hollywood sign?

April 1, 2019 at 9:35 am

No, you can’t tile to the Hollywood sign.

Carol Colborn

March 30, 2019 at 4:35 pm

It’s good my granddaughter works and lives in Santa Monica. It’s also good that I have covered Day 2 except for the Griffith Observatory. I have also not gone to the Getty Center.

March 28, 2019 at 11:07 pm

I visited LA almost half a decade ago and it’s a pity that I didn’t rent a car and drive to Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach and Malibu. I’ve always regretted that. I don’t think I’d like to drive within the city itself, however, given the traffic and as you said, confusing parking signs! But it’s good that there’s the metro for that 🙂 I had some friends who were nice enough to take me around back then but they’re not there anymore. If I make it back to LA someday, I’d have to find my own way. Definitely making it to the beautiful coast next time!

blair villanueva

March 28, 2019 at 10:31 pm

Thanks for sharing your LA itinerary guide. My other family side lives in LA and some in Santa Barbara, and they all telling me how awesome living in there (even there are many challenges as well, cost of living isn’t cheap though). Someday I will visit my family in LA and have a trip using your guide!

March 28, 2019 at 4:45 pm

I’m yet to head to the American continent and when I do definitely I’d want to visit LA. I’ve heard so much about Malibu beach so definitely it would be in my list. The water is so pristine. I’ve not seen star fishes in wild before. I might just spend an entire day in Malibu.

March 28, 2019 at 6:33 pm

Hope you’ll make it here someday.

March 28, 2019 at 4:19 pm

I have not been to LA in years and years and I would really love to go back one day. The traffic in LA is however such a put off and whilst I would prefer to have the freedom of my own car, I’m not sure I can handle the traffic. Santa Monica Pier looks like so much fun despite the crazy crowds. I guess that just comes with the territory. Those muscle men still at Venice Beach? I’d love to go to the Getty Center….that is my kind of place. And shopping….. I could go crazy!

I agree, the traffic here is a nightmare.

Jane Dempster-Smith

March 27, 2019 at 4:12 pm

This is a perfect 3 day itinerary. In the past I have only spent a day in Los Angeles just passing through and I have really missed out on all the sights. At the top of my list would be the Chinese Theatre and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. A great tip about going to the Observatory late in the afternoon to see the sunsets and the lights below.

Sinjana Ghosh

March 27, 2019 at 11:59 am

I have never visited Los Angeles so this is a great itinerary to begin with. Will keep in mind the vastness and not try to squeeze too much. I think the Santa Mobica beach itself will cover half of the day with all the activities. The sunset strip will be on my list for sure. I understand your point about the walk of fame, I will probably just walk around it for some time and then leave. I don’t find those places particularly interesting but I dont want to miss out on the most celebrated place in Los Angeles either.

March 27, 2019 at 6:43 am

Visiting the beach is one of our favorite things to do anytime our destination is nearby. Venice Beach most likely won’t shock me with its colorful graffiti, street performers, and funky shops. I’ve seen it all!

I’m also game for a laid back experience at Malibu beach, one of my favorite beaches.

March 26, 2019 at 7:55 am

Great post! As a local, I definitely think a car is necessary as our public transportation isn’t very reliable/safe and the city is just so spread out! The things you mentioned always top the list of our visitors and 3 days is the perfect amount of time to hit them all up.

March 26, 2019 at 6:09 am

Hello thanks, Anda for sharing such kind of valuable tips and the images you have used its really appreciable. LA is really a home to some of the USA’s best beaches and each one has its own unique character. I will definitely travel there!!

March 25, 2019 at 4:27 pm

Great tips for a first time visit. I’m passing this along to a friend who will be visiting in May for her first time.

March 25, 2019 at 10:07 pm

Thanks, Jill. Hope your friend will make some use of this information.

Rhonda Albom

March 24, 2019 at 1:38 am

I have been to L.A. many times yet I have not done it all. The Getty Center sounds interesting and it is one of the places I have never visited. I also never walked the Sunset Strip. Thanks for some good recommendations.

March 24, 2019 at 1:55 am

Next time you come here I’ll take you on the Sunset Strip, Rhonda.

March 22, 2019 at 9:33 pm

Great post! I just came back from LA myself. Did a two-day getaway and checked out Hollywood, Santa Monica, USC, Chinatown, and the LA City Hall. You are right about there being plenty of shady people in the Walk of Fame area. I’ll be writing about my visit there on my blog and how I fell for a scam there – come check it out in a few days!

July 24, 2023 at 9:39 am

Thanks 🙏🏼 for the great tips! I’d like to see comedy stand up gigs and drag queen gigs. But I heard LA is dangerous at night in the streets. Are these comedy places in downtown LA (where I plan to stay)? Would you recommend LACMA or Getty Center? Thanks again

July 25, 2023 at 11:58 am

I’m glad you found this information useful, Fabi. Downtown L.A. is overall a very safe area, but I would advise you to stay away from Chinatown at night. In regards to stand-up comedy places, I’ve heard there is a very good comedy theater in downtown called “The Nitecap,” but I didn’t go there personally.

As for LACMA vs the Getty Center, if you are strictly interested in art go to LACMA as it has a more comprehensive collection. However, I would choose Getty over LACMA simply because it also has an outstanding location, beautiful gardens, and more varied art collections. Note that the Getty Villa is a separate museum where their antiquities are kept. Hope this helps.

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The Perfect Los Angeles Itinerary for 5 Days

Best Los Angeles Itinerary For First-Time Visitors!

City of stars, are you shining just for me?

I bet you just sang it instead of reading it, right? Oh and please don’t tell me you haven’t seen the movie La La Land because that’s an absolute MUST if you visit the sunny city in Southern California.

Ever since I saw the movie, it has been my biggest dream to visit LA – one of THE most famous cities in the world!

No joke, but I almost cried when I finally booked the flight and planned my Los Angeles itinerary for five days. One of my biggest dreams came true and the feeling was simply overwhelming.

We had a total of six full days in Los Angeles, however, we decided to plan a day trip to San Diego as well.

Initially, we even thought of doing a proper California road trip to visit other places like San Francisco or Joshua Tree as well but then decided against it. Six days just weren’t enough so we stayed in LA.

I probably don’t have to tell you that the city is huge and it’s simply impossible to see and do all the cool stuff in only five days.

I’m still quite astonished by how many things we covered in such a short time. We never felt rushed or stressed tho and spent enough time at every place.

So if you want to make the best out of your time in the “City of Angels”, here’s your perfect Los Angeles itinerary for 5 days. Packed with all the must-see’s and -do’s, it guarantees you an unforgettable time!

(This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a certain percentage of a sale if you purchase after clicking.)

BTW, you can change the order of the days, it’s just an example of how we planned them. Don’t hesitate to adjust the itinerary as you like it! 🙂

Day 1: Beverly Hills, LACMA & Melrose Avenue

On our first day, we decided to visit one of the fanciest and most expensive parts of Los Angeles: Beverly Hills.

Beverly Hills

Home to many Hollywood stars and only the most expensive boutiques it’s almost impossible to not feel super poor in this area – unless your name’s Kim Kardashian.

Let’s start your journey through this extraordinary part of LA at the iconic Beverly Hills Sign.

Beverly Hills Sign

The 12-meter-long Beverly Hills sign in Beverly Gardens Park is one of the most recognized sights in this area. The small pond in front of the sign is especially beautiful in spring and summer with countless blooming water lilies.

It’s also a perfect opportunity to snap a photo as evidence you’ve really been there!

Rodeo Drive

Walk along Beverly Gardens Park with the main street to your left and you’ll reach Rodeo Drive. Turn left and you’ll find yourself at the beginning of the famous and expensive shopping street.

Just wander along, admire the unaffordable goods in all the shop windows and feel a bit like Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman.

If you turn around and make your way back to Beverly Gardens Park, keep on following Rodeo Drive to reach the most iconic hotel nearby: The Beverly Hills Hotel.

The Beverly Hills Hotel

On your way to the hotel, you’ll pass numerous very impressive villas – one bigger and more beautiful than the other one.

Some of them have a very modern architectural style whereas others almost look like Greek temples with huge columns at the entrance.

The Beverly Hills Hotel is a 5-star hotel and has been a hot spot for many celebrities – old and young – since 1912. So keep your eyes open, maybe you’ll see someone familiar entering the “Pink Palace” at Sunset Boulevard.

Tours you might find interesting :

Will Rogers Memorial Park

Right across the street from the iconic hotel there’s the lovely Will Rogers Memorial Park – a very beautiful and also historic place with a small fountain and huge palm trees.

It’s the perfect place to sit back, relax and watch some ducks play and swim in the water.

Alright, time to leave Beverly Hills and all the fanciness because it’s time to head to the next stop on our Los Angeles itinerary: Melrose Avenue!

Melrose Avenue

Melrose Avenue is one of LA’s most famous streets where you can find unique vintage shops, a lot of different dining places and some awesome wall paintings .

I really recommend you to just take your time, stroll around and enjoy the relaxing and cool atmosphere at Melrose Avenue. Don’t hesitate to visit some of its clothing stores , you can find many creative and unique pieces there!

Lunch at Fala Bar (optional)

No matter what part of Melrose Avenue you’re at, you’ll always find some great restaurants nearby.

If you want to have some nice vegan food in LA tho, I have the perfect address for you.

Fala Bar is a stylish vegan cafe offering a menu of organic falafels, sandwiches, and salads. It’s rather small and there are only a few tables outside so it’s likely you’ll have to wait to get a free one.

Trust me, the yummy food is definitely worth waiting tho!

The last stop of the day is the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, short LACMA. This art museum is the largest of its kind in the western part of the US and features more than 150,000 works.

No matter if you prefer Modern and Contemporary Art, Greek art, Islamic art or Asian art – LACMA has it all! There are even parts of the museum entirely dedicated to photography and film.

Directly in front of the entrance to the museum, you can find a permanent art installation called “Urban Lights” .

202 fully functional street lights from cities in and around Los Angeles make an awesome photo opportunity during the day as well as in the evening when they’re turned on.

If you’re not a fan of visiting museums and want to do something fun and exciting instead, head over to the neighborhood of Century City where you find The Escape Game , America’s #1 escape room!

Day 2: Warner Bros Studio Tour, Hollywood Sign & Griffith Observatory

You’re probably already familiar with the fact that Hollywood is home to the famous U.S. film industry. Thus visiting at least one of its historic film studios is an absolute must!

Day 2 of this Los Angeles itinerary takes you to the Warner Bros Studio , one of the oldest and most popular film studios in the world!

Warner Bros Studio Tour

The Warner Bros Studio Tour is an awesome and fun way to experience the production of different movies and series close up.

Led by an experienced tour guide, the tour usually takes between 2-3 hours and you’re in a small group together with a few other people.

During this time you’ll see different sets where series like The Big Bang Theory or Two and a Half Men were filmed . Moreover, you can have a look at the original requisites from their latest productions.

The time we went there, their latest popular movie produced was Crazy Rich Asians so we could admire all the colorful dresses and other interesting stuff used in the movie.

It’s a very popular tour to take so you should buy tickets online to avoid queuing.

After the Warner Bros Studio Tour, grab something to eat at the Whole Foods Market close by and make your way to the iconic Hollywood Sign!

Hollywood Sign (Hike)

Hiking up the Hollywood Sign was my absolute favorite activity during my time in LA. Don’t worry, the hike is not as exhausting and long as it may seem at the beginning.

TIP: I recommend you start from Lake Hollywood Park and simply follow Mulholland Highway until you reach a fork. There, take a left and continue on Mount Lee Drive.

After a while, you’ll spot another fork with a snake warning sign – keep on walking straight ahead and you’ll reach the sign.

The entire hike takes around 50 minutes and is a bit steep sometimes, but trust me, the view is definitely worth it. Standing up there and looking down at the City of Angels is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll never forget!

Griffith Observatory

Very close to the Hollywood Sign you can find Griffith Observatory, one of the most iconic landmarks in California .

It’s a public observatory on the southern part of Mount Hollywood offering a spectacular view of downtown LA, the Hollywood area, and the Pacific Ocean.

Besides enjoying an amazing view, you can see live shows in the Planetarium, look through telescopes, and visit different exhibitions to learn more about our planet and the universe.

Get more information about the Griffith Observatory and its exhibitions + tours .

Plus I highly recommend staying until it gets dark. You really don’t want to miss one of the most stunning sunsets!

Day 3: Hollywood, Runyon Canyon

Alright, day 3 of my Los Angeles itinerary for 5 days, and now it’s time to explore the “glamorous” Hollywood a bit more!

This day isn’t as packed as the others so you’ll have enough time to enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the many cafés on Hollywood Boulevard.

If there’s one part of Los Angeles EVERYONE knows, it’s Hollywood. In my opinion highly overrated and not glamorous at all yet not to miss during your time in LA.

Walk of Fame

Start your journey through Hollywood by taking a casual stroll at the popular Walk of Fame. More than 2,600 celebrities were honored by writing their names on stars embedded in the sidewalk.

It’s more than 2.1 kilometers long so it can take some time until you finally spot your celebrity crush!

Dolby Theatre

I bet you’ve seen the Dolby Theatre on TV already because it’s where the famous Oscars ceremony takes place. Once a year, it gets prepared to welcome the high society of the film industry.

On all other days tho, the Dolby Theatre functions as a shopping and entertainment mall.

Fun fact: The Academy Awards took place the day we left LA. Thus the entire theatre was covered and everyone was working hard to get ready for the important awards. That’s also the reason why I couldn’t take a proper picture of it.

TCL Chinese Theatre

Right next to the Doby Theatre, you find the grand TCL Chinese Theatre .

Is there a new movie you desperately want to see? There’s no better place than in this impressive movie palace shaped like a Chinese temple.

Don’t wonder about the masses of people staring at the ground in front of it tho. The floor at the entrance is filled with the hands and footprints of famous actors and actresses.

Even if you don’t want to see a movie or do a tour inside, it’s fun to stand in the footprints of George Clooney & Co. and compare them with your own feet size!

After casually walking around Hollywood, it’s time to get more active again. If you follow this Los Angeles itinerary, the next place to check out is Runyon Canyon.

Runyon Canyon

This 160-acre park at the end of the Santa Monica Mountains is a very popular hiking destination. Moreover, it’s also one of the most dog – friendly places in Los Angeles so be prepared to see many furry friends there!

You can either use the entrance at Mulholland Drive or the one at North Fuller Avenue as we did. It’s your choice where to go, the park is big and there are many awesome viewpoints.

However, keep in mind it’s not an easy climb to reach them so wear appropriate shoes. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with another breathtaking view of the city.

Moreover, the sunset up there is to die for so definitely deserves to be among the best places to watch the sunset in LA !

PSSST: Rumors say it’s a hotspot for celebrities so keep an eye open. Maybe if you’re lucky, you’ll see a familiar face.

Dinner at Firefly (optional)

If you’re hungry and want to have some fancy dinner, check out the restaurant Firefly in Studio City. It belongs to the more expensive sort of restaurant, but the food and the ambiance make an excellent dining experience.

Day 4: Downtown LA

Day 4 of my Los Angeles itinerary for 5 days is all about exploring Downtown LA.

This part of the city has long been and still is an area few people decide to visit. Frankly, I haven’t been the biggest fan of it either and preferred other parts of LA more.

Nevertheless, there are some awesome and fun activities you shouldn’t miss. In fact, it has so much to offer that I wrote an entire blog post including all the best things to do in Downtown LA .

I have some photos for you, just to give you a little foretaste of what awaits you there.

Day 5: Santa Monica & Venice

Oh how much I hate to tell you but we reached the last day of my Los Angeles itinerary already.

Now it’s time to explore – in my opinion – the two coolest, hippest, and simply best parts of Los Angeles: Santa Monica & Venice!

Santa Monica

Right at the Pacific Ocean and west of Downtown LA lies the coastal city of Santa Monica. It is mostly famous for the iconic Santa Monica Pier with the Pacific Park amusement park.

Before you’re going to spend some time here tho, make your way to the neighboring beach town Venice.

The best way to get there is to rent a bike from one of the rental stations near the pier. Then follow the cycle path along the beach until you reach the popular Venice Skatepark where you can park your bike.

So get on that bike, enjoy the sea breeze, and dig in all the stunning views on the way!

For me, Venice felt so different compared to the rest of LA . Everyone was super chilled and it almost seemed life happened slower than everywhere else in the city. No matter where you go, you’ll feel the relaxing atmosphere.

The best way to get an authentic experience of Venice is by taking a casual walk through the colorful beach town.

Start at the Venice Skatepark where you can see both, beginners and professionals, do some laps on their skateboards. It’s really fun to watch all the different tricks they perform!

Then continue your way to the central part of the town where you can find the iconic Venice Sign . It’s a great photo opportunity so make sure you click some good ones before heading to the Venice Canals!

The Venice Canals are beautiful, man-made canals off 25th Street. They’re not easy to spot so if you didn’t know about this place, you would probably just walk by.

Along the canals, you can find gorgeous houses, easily walkable sidewalks, and many connecting bridges. It’s a truly peaceful area and perfect for a leisurely stroll .

Lunch at Tocaya Organica (optional)

If you’re looking for a nice place to have lunch, I highly recommend the restaurant Tocaya Organica nearby. It’s an organic Mexican restaurant chain founded in Venice which has now locations all over Los Angeles.

Check out: Vegan Food Guide Los Angeles

After lunch, make your way back to the promenade and spend some time there before heading to Santa Monica again. If you want, you can also follow the cycle path in the other direction to see a bit more of Los Angeles’ coastline.

Back in Santa Monica, you can now do all the fun activities at Santa Monica Pier. Whether you’re brave and try the rollercoaster or enjoy the breathtaking view from the Ferris wheel – it won’t get boring at all!

Is there a better way to end the last day of your Los Angeles trip than with a sunset at Santa Monica Beach ? I doubt it! So walk down to the beach, sit down, and watch the sun disappear behind the horizon of California’s coastline.

Drinks at The Misfit & Shangri-La Rooftop Bar (optional)

Oh, I almost forgot one thing to make it a great last day! In downtown Santa Monica, only a few minutes from the pier, you can find some awesome bars to have a drink (or two.)

My recommendations are The Misfit (awesome atmosphere) and the Shangri-La rooftop bar (best views of Santa Monica Pier). So cheers to five unforgettable days in Los Angeles!

How to Get Around in Los Angeles

Do you believe me if I tell you it’s not necessary to rent a car in LA?

Although everyone recommended renting a car, we decided against it. Instead, we mainly used public transport to get around the city and it was straightforward!

Only a few times we had to order an Uber to reach places such as Hollywood Lake Park or Griffith Observatory. So if you don’t want to get stuck in the horrible traffic of LA, give public transport a chance!

Like it? Pin it!

Do you want to travel like me? Here are some of my favorite travel tips and resources:

Flights: I prefer using CheapOair or Skyscanner to book flights. The destination everywhere feature is perfect for finding some cheap deals! Accommodation: Booking.com is my favorite site to find some great hotel deals. I do love staying at a local place as well, thus I book an Airbnb every now and then. Travel Insurance: There are many reasons why travel insurance is important and I never travel without one. I use the simple and flexible one from SafetyWing that protects me against unforeseen events. Tours: I love taking tours to explore destinations like a local. My favorite website to book them in advance is GetYourGuide . Camera Gear: I use a Nikon D5300 camera with an 18-105 mm and a 10-20 mm wide-angle lens to take my photos.

Hey and welcome to my blog! I’m Alina, an Austrian travel addict and vegan food lover who has a passion for exploring new destinations and trying out the best plant-based food around the world. Come and join me as I share exciting bucket list experiences and provide helpful travel guides for your own adventures!

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67 Comments

This is an amazing itinerary Alina! I love SoCal, but I do need to get back to LA to do all the Hollywood stuff such as Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills Hotel, etc. I did do the hike to the sign and visited Santa Monica, which I loved! I loved all of your photos. 🙂

Thank you Taylor, really appreciate your comment! I also feel that I missed so much. Need to go back and explore Malibu for example 🙂

What a complete guide! 🙂 Los Angeles is in our bucket list and we hope it will be the first destination that we will visit in North America 😀 There are so many places here that look so colorful and alive!

Thanks guys ☺️ I hope you can make it there very soon, it’s an awesome city!

I’ve never been to LA but your post is definitely making me want to go there! 🙂

It’s a cool city!

I live in CA and have still never done an proper LA trip. Pinning for later!

Time to do so 🙂

I have been to LA a number of times but always looking for new things to see there when I will inevitably go back. I’m there for a long layover in May so planning my day already. I’ve never been to the Griffith Observatory so that’s high on my list.

Griffith Observatory is great, you’ll love it!

Awesome itinerary! Really great photos! The trip included a variety of aspects, which is awesome. I really hope to visit one day!

Thanks Jean-Marie! Glad you like it 🙂

Loved this itinrary for Orange county! I went there in 2010 and I’m hoping to get back there. This is a great breakdown for a second visit!

Thanks! Glad you like it 🙂

Ahh I’ve always wanted to go to LA! 5 days sounds awesome there! I’d definitely go by Melrose’s – it looks so iconic and just Hollywood!

So much to see hehe

This is an amazing itinerary! I’ve been to LA 6 times and can completely agree with the statement about downtown LA, haha no one likes to go there but I guess you have to go there once to see what it’s like! Also totally agree about Santa Monica & Venice – absolutely love them both!

Thanks Jasmine! 🙂 Haha yeah downtown is not the greatest of LA but there’s still much to see 🙂

Great post! I’ve been to most of these but this definitely makes me want to go back ? LA is such a fun city!

Thanks a lot! 🙂

Great itinerary! We are passing though LA this summer. Would love to go to see the LACMA – those lamp post photos are fab.

Love this guide so much! I have never been to LA but this makes me want to go even sooner.

Thanks, glad you like it 🙂

I felt a little overwhelmed when we visited Cali trying to figure out what to do in LA. Wish I had this a few months ago! But I’ll be saving for a future trip because I plan to return soon.

Hope you can make it there again soon!

I am a local and some of the restaurants I had no idea even existed. I am not vegan but love vegan food and love some of the spots you mentioned!

You’ll definitely like them!!!

Ya know, I’ve been to California so often and you found some gems I haven’t heard of or been to yet. Great post! Can’t wait to return now!

Thanks a lot 🙂

I live down in San Diego, but LA seems so far thanks to the traffic involved in getting there. More exploration time is definitely in order!

Oh yeah the traffic can be horrible but it’s worth exploring it 🙂

Beautiful and I think you’ve covered a lot of the most famous and must-go places in LA. Definitely a bible for the first-timer like me!

Oh yes we really did and saw a lot! 🙂 Glad you find it helpful

I have never been to LA, but this is such a great itinerary! Absolutely love your photos and would love to visit LACMA! Great article!

Thanks a lot Polly ☺️ Happy you like it!

Great post! I am going to LA in a few weeks so this guide was very helpful. Will pin so I have a reference. Thank you!

Glad you can use it! Have an amazing time you’ll love it 🙂

What an action-packed itinerary! There is so much to do in LA, I have a feeling you could spend a lifetime there and still not do it all!

Omg yes totally haha

Heading here later this year! Definitely saving this for later! Thanks for all the tips!!

Oh you’ll love it!

Great detailed post! I love reading itineraries that people have done themselves.

Thanks Lauren 🙂

How timely! I’m heading to LA next week. Can’t wait.

Perfect, hope you can use this 🙂

Wow this itinerary is super!!! I can’t wait my LA trip, and I was actually really struggling to plan my itinerary. Thanks, saving it! xx

Glad you can use it! 🙂

You are making me want to go to LA!!! Love this guide so helpful

Thanks Dana 🙂

Wow, this is such a detailed itinerary! We are hoping to head back to LA soon and will deffo use these tips! I MUST head to Santa Monica next time!

Thanks Katie! Santa Monica was really one of my favourite places 🙂

Thanks for a helpful post! I wish I had more time to visit LACMA when I was visiting LA, it looks lush! And Venice Beach was a hotspot for all fit hotties and athletes hahah xx

Omg yeeees haha! Loved Venice 😀

This post made me think of loads of fun I could have in the City of Angels with my BFFs. There would be plenty of things to do and see with a group as diverse as ours. Can’t wait to follow your itinerary!

LA is so high on my bucketlist! This itinerary looks perfect, has the right amount of everything! Definitely going to use this when I visit soon!

Thanks Emma! 🙂

It seems you had a great time.

I had, thanks 🙂

So many things I still haven´t seen in LA! I´d love to visit Runyon Canyon next time. Spending 5 days in Los Angeles seems like the best way to see most of the city!

Yes definitely! It’s a good amount of time 🙂

A very detailed and thorough itinerary. Thanks so much for the valuable information!!!

Glad you find it useful Michelle 🙂

This is a great guide! When I was in Los Angeles we were only there for a couple of days so sadly only got to see a fraction of these. I’d love to go back and see more though, especially the coast! My favourites were definitely the Warner Bros studio tour and the Griffiths Observatory. I’m going to save your recommendations for my next visit!

Hannah | https://getlost.blog/

I loooved the view from the Griffith Observatory so much ?

This is a great guide for first timers like my family, will be very helpful. Thank you for sharing, Alina!

I’m beyond happy to hear this, Debbie! Have a wonderful time 🙂

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Kate Abroad

The Ultimate One Week in Los Angeles Itinerary [2024 Guide]

Spending a whole week in a city is a great way to really get to know it and, in a city as big as Los Angeles, you need at least that long to get around. I spent a week in LA exploring a different part of the city each day, here’s the 7 day Los Angeles itinerary I recommend (with a few tweaks to do things in a more logical order). 

I based myself in Santa Monica for this week. It’s not the most central location but as a solo traveller, I found it much safer than the Downtown or Hollywood area. 

Top Tip: Wherever you’re staying, I’d recommend doing the section of the itinerary that’s in/closest to that area first so you can use the first day to adjust and recover from any jet lag.

If you do everything on this one week LA itinerary, the cost will add up pretty quick. However, I can guarantee you’ll walk away feeling like you really did LA. 

I’ve put together a rough budget for the week at the end which you can use as a guide. However, you can save a lot by taking public transport (LA trains are fine, be careful on buses) and staying in hostels. Hostels are also a great way to meet people in what can otherwise be a lonely city.

Spending more time in California? Try this one week in the San Francisco Bay Area itinerary .

Los Angeles 7 Day Itinerary

Day 1: hollywood.

Hollywood is a must-do for anyone visiting LA. It’s super touristy sure but it’s also a bucket list place that you won’t want to miss during your week in LA. 

I recommend embracing the cliché tackiness and doing it all. Start with a stroll along the  Hollywood Walk of Fame then learn about old Hollywood at the  Hollywood Museum  and  Hollywood Forever Cemetery .

Bring out your inner kid at  Madame Tussauds  and either  Ripley’s Believe It or Not or Guinness Worlds Records  (unless you actually have kids with you, I wouldn’t recommend doing both).

For the afternoon, take the  Paramount Pictures  studio tour to see behind the scenes of the sets of your favourite shows and movies.

Then finish off the day with a film at the  Chinese Theatre  IMAX (all year) or a show at the  Hollywood Bowl  (October to May).

Day 2: Beverly Hills

Beverly Hills is a good antidote to grimy Hollywood, it’s a least trying to have all the glamour and class that Hollywood lacks.

The snootiness of Beverly Hills does mean that it’s not fully integrated into the public transport system of the rest of the city so it’s easiest to catch an Uber/Lyft here.

If you’re up for an early start (to avoid the heat), try starting the day with the  Runyon Canyon Hike . It’s meant to be a favourite of celebrities and influencers so keep your eyes peeled for someone you recognise.

After that refuel with some pancakes from  Griddle Café , it’s not actually in Beverly Hills but their pancakes are one of the best American foods to try on your visit.

Beverly Hills is a fun place to explore on foot, soaking up the vibe and popping into stores and cafes as suits. However, if you prefer not to walk, a  trolley tour  is a great option to see the area, or you could jump on one of the celebrity homes tours that start around the area.

Shopping on  Rodeo Drive  is a must, even if it’s only window shopping – that’s all I could afford to do! Don’t miss the Cupcake ATM either.

Day 2 is a good time to check out  LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art) , you’ve probably seen pictures of the forest of lamps outside. It’s just down from Beverly Hills around La Brea area.

While you’re there you could check out  La Brea Tar Pits  and / or The Grove shopping centre.

Day 3: Venice and Santa Monica

It wouldn’t be a week in LA without at least one beach day and the Santa Monica / Venice Beach area is a fun part of the coast to explore.

Santa Monica is pretty laidback and family-friendly with the famous  Santa Monica Pier  full of rides and food stalls which makes for a good day out. 

Venice Beach is its own vibe known for bodybuilders and hippies. You can try some of the outdoor gym equipment down at  Muscle Beach  or grab a cannabis-loaded smoothie bowl. There is also a ton of great vegan and veggie LA restaurants in this part of town.

The walk in between along the  boardwalk  is super pretty, lined with lots of souvenir shops. You can also rent bikes or scooters which are super popular for getting up and down the coastline.

Day 4: Downtown and surrounds

Los Angeles’ Downtown area gets a bad rep for being dirty and unsafe but it’s in the process of revitalising and there are some really cool attractions to explore.

Grand Central Market  is a must, there are so many food stalls there and you can’t really go wrong. I still dream about the tacos. While you’re there, jump on the  Angel’s Flight  cable car, it’s touristy but good fun.

DTLA is also home to a lot of historic buildings from  Union Station  and the Central Library to the Bradbury Building and  El Pueblo de Los Angeles . Pop them into a map and take yourself for a walking tour, you’ll get some great photos.

I’d recommend doing a  food tour  on this day (If you don’t fill up at Grand Central Market). I did one run by Urban Adventures in Koreatown, and it was awesome, super informative and had lots of tasty food. It’s a good way to get to know some of the immigrant communities that have shaped today’s LA.

Day 5: Universal Studios

Los Angeles is movie city and while Hollywood is the old side of that,  Universal Studios  is the new and it’s a fun place to try some rides and see behind the scenes of your favourite shows and movies.

Getting to Universal Studios can be a bit of a mission, I’d recommend getting an Uber or Lyft to avoid the hassle of trains and buses. 

If you’re a Harry Potter fan, you’ll love the whole themed area at Universal Studios where you can try butter beer and go on wizard rides.

I highly rated the studio tour where you hurtle around TV sets in a trolley and see how some iconic scenes were put together.

If you can afford it, getting the Universal Express Pass makes the day a lot easier as you save heaps of time in queues, however, if you can time your visit for mid-week you can probably get away with a general pass.

Day 6: Griffith Park and The Getty

For the ultimate LA tourist bucket list moment, you need to climb up to the Hollywood Sign. It’s quite a hike but worth it for the amazing views over the city. If you’re visiting in summer, you’ll want to go very early to avoid the heat.

Once you’re up there, you might as well visit the Griffith Observatory. It’s free entry and a great option if you’re travelling with kids.

Another slightly out-of-the-way attraction that’s worth the trip is The Getty. It’s the most famous museum/art gallery in LA and has an enormous collection of works from around the world. Kind of like LA’s answer to the Met.

Day 7: Disneyland day trip

While it might seem like a lot to do both Universal Studios and Disneyland in one week in Los Angeles, it wouldn’t be an LA trip without Disney and the two experiences are quite different.

To get to Disneyland I’d recommend taking the Amtrak to Anaheim and staying the night close by so you can get to the park at the opening in the morning. Booking.com has some great options for accommodation close to the park.

I won’t pretend to be a Disney expert, as there are people who write whole blogs just on the park, but my top tips would be to arrive early, pace yourself, and embrace the Disney spirit.

Related: Solo Traveller’s Guide to Disneyland

Where to stay for a week in LA

Los Angeles has so many accommodation options you could find something for any budget in any part of the city.

I loved staying in Santa Monica as it felt super safe as a solo traveller while still having a lot happening and being on a train line that helps get to most places in the city.

Beverly Hills is also a great area if you want to be more central and are ok paying slightly more. 

Here are some top picks for accommodation around the city:

• HI Los Angeles Santa Monica – a cheap hostel near the beach with good social vibes
• Freehand Los Angeles – a midrange hotel downtown with a cool bar and restaurant
• Beverly Hills Plaza Hotel – a beautiful boutique hotel close to upmarket Beverly Hills

Compare prices at Booking.com

How much to budget for a week in Los Angeles

To help you plan your LA week, here’s an idea of costs if you did most of the activities on this itinerary. All amounts are in USD and based on adult prices, most places have student discounts.

Attractions:

Note: I’ve based these off the entry-level tickets, if you want express passes or multi-park passes etc then you’ll need to budget more.

You could cut down these costs with a multi-attraction pass like the ones offered by Go City, which gives you a discount on tickets. Click here to check out the Go City Passes – I’ve tried their 2 day pass which is great value.

As a general guide for other costs:

• Accommodation: $30-50/night for a hostel bed, $150-200/night for a couple in a mid-range hotel 
• Food: $30/day for groceries/street food or $50-100/day for eating at cafes/restaurants
• Transport: $12.50 for 7 day LA Metro pass or $40-100/day for rideshare/taxis

That comes out as around $450 minimum for a week so close to $800 including attractions.

In Short: How to Spend a Week In LA

There are so many ways you could spend a week in LA so hopefully, this itinerary gives you a starting point for planning your trip. If you’re visiting for less time, you could easily pick out the days with the most interesting activities for you.

For more  USA travel  inspiration, check out these articles:

• East Coast Road Trip Itinerary
• Northeastern United States Itinerary
• Best Midwest Holiday Destinations

Happy travelling!

USA Travel Resources

• Find the best prices on hotels with flexible cancellation at Booking.com
• Find tickets for attractions and awesome day tours on Viator
• Save $$$ on attractions in NYC, LA, Miami and more with a Go City Pass
• Compare prices on cars and campervans at RentalCars.com
• Sort your US dollars with a Wise currency card

Kate is the founder of Kate Abroad. She has travelled to nearly 40 countries from Austria to Vanuatu, and lived in 3. She's on a mission to empower other Gen Zs and Millenials travel affordably by sharing helpful travel guides, stories and tips to over 200,000 readers.

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Solo Trip To Los Angeles: Your Ultimate Guide (From A Local)

By Janelle Axton. This guide to solo travel in Los Angeles contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

If you’re considering a solo trip to Los Angeles , then this guide is for you!

With its endless attractions, diverse neighborhoods, and world-class restaurants, there’s plenty to see and do without a companion.

To help make your solo trip as smooth as possible, read through this ultimate guide packed with tips and advice and get ready to discover all that solo travel in LA has to offer.

As a local, I’m excited to share some of my favorite places and best tips with you!

LA Solo Travel Top Picks Getting Around: The best way to get around while traveling solo in Los Angeles is by car. Luckily, Discover Cars  makes it easy to quickly compare your rental options. Their comparison tool does the homework for you, so there’s no need to have up 10+ tabs trying to figure out which company is the most affordable. Actually, you can save up to 70% by using their tool! Tours & Experiences: Speaking of saving money, it’s recommended to get a Go City: Los Angeles Explorer Pass , which gives you access to 30+ local tours and attractions for one low price! A few top picks for tours include: – Griffith Observatory Hike: An LA Tour through the Hollywood Hills – Old & New Downtown Los Angeles Walking Tour – Downtown Los Angeles Food Tour Click here for a full list of tours in Los Angeles Events: Check for fun events & unique popup experiences on Fever Local Culture: Dine in local homes & enjoy culinary experiences with locals through EatWith Accommodation: In terms of where to stay, this accommodation map shows a mix of hotels and vacation rentals with prices. It’s currently set to Santa Monica – one of the top places to stay while traveling solo in LA – but you can easily change it to your preferred neighborhood. My personal favorite is The Kinney , a hip boutique hotel walkable to Venice Beach! 🏥  Travel Insurance:  SafetyWing (budget-friendly) & World Nomads (robust) 📞  Staying Connected: Airalo eSIM

Table of Contents

Confidently Enjoy Solo Travel In Los Angeles [Free Course]

But first, before we dive into our guide to solo female travel in Los Angeles , I invite you to grab a seat in Jessie’s  free Savvy Solo Traveler E-Course .

The 6-day course is designed to help you feel confident about booking your first solo trip and exploring the world alone.

Lessons include:

• Common solo travel fears (like  flying alone for the first time ) and how to overcome them
• How to choose the perfect destination when you travel solo
• How to tell loved ones you’re hitting the road solo
• Mentally preparing for your solo journey without losing your mind
• Essential steps for staying safe when traveling solo
• How to travel alone and take amazing solo selfies

Once you’ve  grabbed your seat , read on to dive into our California travel guide focused on LA solo travel.

Is A Solo Trip To Los Angeles Worth It?

A solo trip to Los Angeles, aka The City of Angels, can be a great experience. The city has a lot to offer, from a delicious food scene and nightlife to well known attractions like the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Universal Studios.

Plus, LA is a great place to people-watch — you never know what celebrity you might run into! 

The downside of traveling solo is you do have to be extra careful when it comes to safety; but as long as you take precautions and stay aware of your surroundings, LA is plenty safe to explore on your own. You might even invest in some travel safety essentials , like pickpocket-proof garments and a personal safety alarm .

Overall, a solo trip to LA is definitely worth it!

Where Is Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is a large city area located in southern California.

In general, when people reference LA, they are talking about the sprawling area of Greater Los Angeles that includes cities from Santa Monica and Malibu on the west coast to Burbank and the Valley in the north, Pasadena towards the east, and down to the South Bay LA and even Orange County in the south. 

The Greater Los Angeles Area is the second most populous metropolitan area in the United States , with over 18 million residents. This means there is plenty to explore when traveling to Los Angeles alone. 

Getting To Los Angeles

There are a few ways to get into Los Angeles, but the most common is flying into LAX international Airport or driving in on one of the many freeways. 

If you’re flying, keep in mind that it’s a busy airport — so leave yourself plenty of time to get around.

If you plan to take Uber or Lyft from the airport, you will need to take the shuttle bus to an offsite location. 

And if you’re driving, be aware that traffic can be heavy at all times of day, so plan accordingly.

Los Angeles Travel Map

Before we go any further with our guide on solo travel to Los Angeles, I want to give you a lay of the land. Here is a map of Los Angeles:

You can also click the above Los Angeles map for an interactive version, which has some of the main attractions mentioned below pre-plotted.

Save it to your phone before traveling alone to Los Angeles so it’s ready to go.

Best Ways To Get Around Los Angeles As A Solo Traveler 

Los Angeles is a sprawling metropolitan area, and it doesn’t have the best public transportation. While buses and trains do exist, it will take a bit of planning and flexibility of walking between stops. You can use this trip planner for help with this.

The most common and easiest way to get around LA for most people is to drive. You can rent a car using a tool like Discover Cars , a comparison tool that can help you save money on rentals.

Additionally, Uber and Lyft are easy to use and plentiful around the city. It’s recommended to download these apps before you leave home so they’re ready to go once you arrive into Los Angeles.

Is LA Safe For Solo Travel?

Yes, LA is safe for solo travel! That being said, as with any big city, you’ll want to stay aware of your surroundings and plan your transportation in advance, especially at night. 

Avoid certain areas such as Skid Row (east of Downtown LA) and stay extra aware in certain parts of Downtown Los Angeles and Hollywood that are not the safest.

If in doubt, ask your hotel reception if a place you’re wanting to go is safe to explore on your own.

Overall, LA is a great place to visit by yourself. Just be cautious and use your common sense, and you’ll be just fine.

Where To Stay On A Solo Trip To Los Angeles

There are a number of great and centrally-located neighborhoods around Los Angeles that are safe for solo travelers, including:

Santa Monica. This is the most popular beach in LA, and a must-visit on any trip to Los Angeles or California road trip . It has a bit of everything, from great restaurants and resort-quality hotels to active nightlife and beach activities. It’s also a very walkable area for those who want to avoid renting a car. 

Click here for a list full list of Santa Monica hotels .

West Hollywood. While a lot of Hollywood is actually pretty grungy, West Hollywood is a much nicer area and located within easy access to many attractions. It’s especially great for those who enjoy exciting nightlife. 

Click here for a list full list of West Hollywood hotels .

Beverly Hills. Here you’ll be immersed in the epitome of LA’s high-class lifestyle. From high-end shopping to world-class spas and opulence, Beverly Hills is the best place to stay for those looking for luxury.

Click here for a list full list of Beverly Hills hotels .

Manhattan Beach. Located just south of LAX, this little beach town is great for those who want a more relaxing and less crowded place to stay, though it’s still within easy driving distance. Plus, there are many great things to do in Manhattan Beach such as shopping in the downtown area boutiques and swimming or taking in a sunset on the beach.

Click here for a list full list of Manhattan Beach hotels .

You can also click here for a full list of Los Angeles hotels , or check out the map below for hotels and self-contained rentals. Note that it’s currently set to Santa Monica, though you can easily change it to your preferred area of LA:

Fun Things To Do In LA As A Solo Traveler

There is no shortage of fun things to do as a solo traveler in Los Angeles. You will find everything from popular tourist attractions to simply enjoying the sunshine out at the beach or a rooftop bar to hidden gems near Los Angeles .

Here are a few of the best things to do in LA when traveling solo:

1. Play around at the Santa Monica Pier

This should be at the top of any list of things to do in Los Angeles when traveling alone. Here, you can play classic arcade games, see talented street performers, and ride the giant Ferris Wheel while taking in stunning Pacific Ocean views.

Whether you have 2 days in Los Angeles or more time to spare, this is sure to be a highlight.

Afterward, you’ll be in the perfect spot to relax on Santa Monica State Beach — a great option for a solo beach day trip — or explore the lively Ocean Avenue and Downtown Santa Monica .

While it’s a bit of a long walk from the pier, a 12-minute Uber ride can take you to Bergamot Station , a former train station complex that houses 30+ art galleries.

2. Visit Universal Studios Hollywood

At least one day of your trip should be dedicated to Universal Studios Hollywood.

Along with being a film studio and theme park home to fun rides inspired by your favorite TV shows and films like Jurassic Park , Harry Potter and the Fast & The Furious, you can find carnival games and live entertainment.

If you’re looking to enjoy shopping and dining, head to Universal CityWalk — which is also home to Universal Cinema, a 7-story IMAX with LASER theatre.

If you’ll be enjoying the rides, make sure to get a Skip-The-Line Express Ticket or opt for a VIP Experience package .

3. Do the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

Warner Bros is another studio to add to your solo travel LA itinerary, as it’s definitely worth visiting. On this tour, you’ll get to see where — and how — some of your favorite shows and movies were made. You’ll even visit Central Perk from Friends !

This is a great way to experience movie magic and really go behind the scenes while embarking on solo travel in Los Angeles.

4. Visit Catalina Island

A day trip to Catalina Island is a fun excursion for solo female travelers to LA. Known for its coastal beauty, wildlife, and outdoor adventure, there is a lot to explore.

Start in one of the two main resort towns: Two Harbors, which is more rustic, or Avalon, which has more of a historic vibe.

Also on the island, spend time snorkeling and relaxing at Descanso Beach Club, explore some of the beautiful beaches, and go for a hike or sailing excursion. There are a ton of interesting tours on the island , too.

To reach Catalina Island, you can catch a ferry from San Pedro, Long Beach, Newport Beach, and Dana Point.

5. Get inspired at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

One of the top things to do when enjoying solo travel to LA is visiting the local galleries and museums, which is an inherently solo activity.

If you enjoy art, one must-visit institution is LACMA , the largest art museum in the western United States. It holds 150,000 pieces of art from ancient times through present day.

In addition to exploring the indoor exhibits and attending their regular films and concerts, you can wander the outside of the building and take a picture in the “Urban Light” display — a forest of city street lights that is particularly captivating at night.

A few other great art institutions in LA include the Museum of Contemporary Art , the J. Paul Getty Museum , and the Institute of Contemporary Art , to name a few.

6. Walk Hollywood Boulevard on your solo trip to Los Angeles

Here you can view the stars along the Hollywood Walk of Fame and celebrity handprints and footprints at the Grauman’s Chinese Theatre (aka TCL Chinese Theatre).

For the full experience, book a Hollywood Sightseeing and Celebrity Homes Tour , which visits these LA attractions as well as various filming locations, celebrity houses, and LA attractions like the Hollywood Sign, Sunset Strip, and Beverly Hills.

7. Sunbathe and people watch on Venice Beach

While alone in Los Angeles, make sure to enjoy the beach and quirky vibes by wandering along the Venice Strand — a beachfront sidewalk showcasing shops, eateries, and street performers — or watching the talented skaters at the Venice Beach Skatepark .

You can also visit Muscle Beach , an outdoor gym that is famous for being the “home of bodybuilding” and the birthplace of the country’s interest in physical fitness.

Along with working out and playing sports like volleyball, it’s a popular place to sit and watch some incredible athletes, gymnasts, and bodybuilders.

Also, one of the best tips I can offer those staying in this area is to book a room at The Kinney Venice Beach , a funky hotel featuring cool murals and a rooftop pool.

8. Go shopping in Beverly Hills

In Beverly Hills, you can go shopping in one of the world’s most high-class shopping destinations.

For instance, at The Grove LA , you will find a range of popular stores from Coach and Michael Kors to pop-ups and special events such as the World of Netflix.

Beverly Hills is also where you’ll find Rodeo Drive , an uber luxe shopping street showcasing brands like Louis Vuitton, Hermès, and Chanel. You could easily spend the whole day here treating yourself — or just window shopping — while traveling alone in Los Angeles.

9. Have a coastal adventure in Malibu while alone in Los Angeles

Explore a gorgeous LA beach community, and maybe try out the most popular southern California sport (surfing!) at the best surf spot in Los Angeles . This is also a good place to take surf lessons.

Love adventure travel ? You can find some beautiful hiking trails in Malibu Hills, including wine-tasting hikes like this one and wine safaris. This is also where you’ll find some beautiful waterfall hikes near Los Angeles .

10. Hike and enjoy incredible views from Griffith Observatory

No solo trip to Los Angeles would be complete without visiting the Griffith Observatory , a free admission observatory and museum that also offers panoramic views of the skyline. From here, you’ll also have a prime view of the Hollywood Sign, a true highlight when you visit LA.

The observatory is located within Griffith Park , the largest urban-wilderness municipal park in the United States. It’s home to a number of scenic trails, including hikes up Mount Hollywood  and  Mount Lee , which is home to the Hollywood Sign.

11. Go hiking in Runyon Canyon Park

About a 20-minute drive from Griffith Observatory is another fantastic spot to go hiking, Runyon Canyon Park .

Many of the trails award beautiful views over Hollywood — like the Runyon Canyon Trail , a moderate 2.7-mile loop offering sweeping views of the city. This vista is certainly a treat while exploring alone in Los Angeles.

Top Tours For Traveling Alone In Los Angeles

One of the top ways to meet people and make new friends while enjoying solo travel in Los Angeles is to book a group tour. A few top-rated excursions include:

• Griffith Observatory Hike: An LA Tour through the Hollywood Hills
• Full-Day Iconic Sights of LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Beaches & More Bus Tour
• Hollywood & Celebrity Homes Bus Tour
• Catalina Island Day Trip from LAX area hotels with Discover Avalon Scenic Tour
• Old & New Downtown Los Angeles Walking Tour
• Private Photo Walk in Los Angeles with Personal Photographer & Color Stylist
• Downtown Los Angeles Food Tour

Click here for a full list of tours in Los Angeles !

Tips For Dining Alone On A Solo Trip To LA

Dining alone can be a bit daunting for solo travelers, especially if you’re not used to it; but, there’s no need to worry! Here are a few tips to make sure you have a great time dining solo in LA. 

Don’t be afraid to make a reservation. Many of the best restaurants in Los Angeles will be busy and require reservations, especially during the high tourist season in summer. Plus, it will ensure that you get a good table and don’t have to wait too long for your food. 

Take advantage of LA’s many great hole-in-the-wall places. Taco stands, food trucks, farmer’s markets, and pop-ups are all top options for solo diners and tend to be less awkward than sitting at a restaurant table alone. One recommendation is the Grand Central Market, which has been serving up tasty eats from a variety of food vendors for over a century.

Eat at the bar. Whether you want to eat in silence or socialize with other patrons, the best places to do this are at a bar that serves delicious food or at a restaurant bar. While here, don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with the people around you. LA is full of friendly people looking to expand their social circles.

Book a meal with EatWith. EatWith is a platform that allows you to dine in local homes, which is a great way to connect with locals while traveling , immerse yourself in local culture, and meet other people while enjoying solo travel in Los Angeles.

How To Get Travel Insurance For Solo Travel In Los Angeles

When visiting Los Angeles—or anywhere else in the world—it’s wise to get travel insurance.

For this, I have two recommendations:

SafetyWing . If you’re looking for something straightforward and budget-friendly, you can’t beat SafetyWing. They offer one global policy that you can cancel at any time or continue paying for long-term coverage (making it the perfect option for digital nomads!).

Their plan includes medical coverage, trip interruptions, personal liability, unplanned overnight stays, lost luggage, and more.

World Nomads . For something more comprehensive, World Nomads is a great option. While you’ll pay a bit more, you’ll typically get higher coverage maximums as well as additional inclusions—like trip cancellation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Solo Travel In Los Angeles

Q: is solo female travel in los angeles safe.

While it’s true that you should take some extra precautions when traveling as a solo female, there’s no reason to believe that LA is any less safe than other major cities. Use your common sense and stay vigilant, and you’ll be fine. 

Avoid walking alone at night and opt for an Uber instead. Make sure to keep a close eye on your drinks if you go out, and maybe limit how many you have. Perhaps carry travel safety essentials like a personal safety alarm with you as well to feel more confident on your own.

With a little planning and some caution, you can have a great time and feel safe while out exploring solo in LA.

Q: Is LA a good solo trip?

There’s no doubt about it, Los Angeles can be a tough city to navigate for solo travelers. From the congested freeways to the sprawling neighborhoods, it’s not hard to feel overwhelmed; however, don’t let that deter you from exploring all that LA has to offer, even on your own! 

There is always a limitless amount to see and do in LA and Hollywood, and as a solo traveler, you will be able to pick and choose to your specific tastes without having to worry about what a group wants to do.

Plus, there are always people out and about, both locals and other tourists, so you will likely meet some new friends during your trip anyway. 

Q: Do you need a car in Los Angeles?

It is best to have a car on your solo trip to Los Angeles, but you don’t need one. Everything in LA is very spread out, which means if you want to see things across town, you will need to have a car or call a ride.

That being said, if you stay somewhere such as Santa Monica or Manhattan Beach, you will be able to get away with walking around town — though you’ll be very limited in what you can do. 

If renting a car, check out Discover Cars , which allows you to easily compare your various options and save.

Q: What are the best things to do alone in Los Angeles at night?

There are plenty of fun things to do alone in Los Angeles at night. For starters, the city is home to some of the best rooftop bars in the country. So, whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy a cocktail and take in great views of the skyline or just want to people-watch, you’ll find a spot that suits your needs. 

If you’re in the mood for some live entertainment, LA has no shortage of concerts and shows to choose from. And if you’re a movie buff, you can often find a screening of the latest Hollywood release.

Q: Where can I drink alone in Los Angeles?

A few recommended rooftop bars to grab a drink and take in the best views while traveling alone in Los Angeles are EP & LP , Perch , and Broken Shaker . You can also find more crowded dance bars in West Hollywood and Santa Monica. It’s recommended to check out the Bungalow .

Q: When is the best time to visit Los Angeles?

While LA is a year-round destination, the best time to visit is early autumn and late spring when the temperatures are more mild. The summer is a lot of fun, but it can get very hot.

Final Thoughts On Traveling To LA Alone

If you’re considering traveling to LA alone, go for it! You are guaranteed to never run out of things to do and will have an amazing time exploring this famous city.

Of course, it helps to do some research before you go so you know what to expect, so make sure to save this guide.

The best things about Los Angeles is it’s a vibrant and diverse city where you’re sure to find something to suit your taste, whether you’re interested in art, food, yoga classes, theme parks, history, the attractions of Hollywood Boulevard (like the Hollywood Walk of Fame), or just soaking up the sun. Enjoy your time traveling alone in Los Angeles!

What are your top tips for a solo trip to Los Angeles?

About the author.

Janelle is a California native who loves sharing stories about her home state and beyond. After traveling to over 25 countries, Janelle created  Make the Trip Matter  – a travel blog that offers Travel Planning Services to help you travel more, live abroad, and discover a more meaningful experience from your travels.

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Girl about the Globe

Making solo travel easier.

Solo Travel in Los Angeles

Types of Girl about the Globe (GatG) – Beach GatG, Sightseeing GatG, Movie GatG, Shopping GatG, Theme Park GatG

Los Angeles, the City of Angels in the USA, and a must for movie lovers. A destination where you can shop, hike and sightsee in one day. But if you're travelling to LA alone, where do you start in this famous American city? With the help of other solo female travellers from our community , I’ve put together a quick guide for a solo trip to Los Angeles to help you plan a trip to LA and experience the best of this iconic destination.

Discover things to do alone in Los Angeles, tours and recommended places to stay in LA for solos. Either click on the relevant link in Contents or read the whole article for your solo female travel Los Angeles. 

N.b. By booking through this page for your solo trip to LA you are helping to improve the lives of vulnerable girls about the globe. Thanks for helping.

Safety in Los Angeles

Must-sees in los angeles.

• Solo Things To Do in Los Angeles

Activities in Los Angeles For All Solos

At night in los angeles, los angeles tours, best area to stay in los angeles, places to stay in los angeles.

• Plan a Trip To Los Angeles

As with any city, you do need to be careful with your belongings, especially in the touristy areas which can be an attraction for pickpockets. There is crime in the South Central region so you may want to avoid areas such as Compton or Crenshaw. There are plenty of other travellers here to meet especially at the well-known tourist sites (listed below). The DCBID’s Safety Teams help to keep the streets both safe and clean. 

1. Hollywood Walk of Fame

Walk along the Hollywood Boulevard

This has to be one of the top things to do solo in Los Angeles! Walk along Hollywood Boulevard and spot your favourite celebrity from more than 2,600 stars that line the path. Each star is dedicated to a famous person with an emblem of what they are famous for. If you see a film camera, it symbolises being in movies or a theatre mask for theatre performances.

See the star for Marilyn Monroe, Neil Armstrong (the astronaut from Apollo), Johnny Depp and so many more. The Walk of Fame is over a mile long from La Brea Avenue avenue with the most well-known star near the Chinese Theatre. And it’s free too!

2. See the Hollywood Sign

The famous Hollywood sign

You can’t come to Los Angeles and not see the Hollywood sign! But did you know that the original sign used to say ‘Hollywoodland” and is nearly 100 years old? Today this sign is a world-famous landmark that can be seen from various points in the city such as Sunset Boulevard. Or if you want to get active and see it closer up, take a stroll to Griffith Park. You can even take a helicopter flight to see this iconic sign from above.  * Check rates and availability: Hollywood Helicopter Tour

3. Warner Bros Studio Tour

Warner Bros Studio is the location of some of the well-loved series films and TV shows and a must for any movie lover. This is where you can visit Central Perk from Friends or have your photo taken with a Batmobile.

Take a three-hour tour of this real-life working Hollywood studio for an intimate behind the scenes to peek at costumes and props used in some of your favourite movies. At the end, you can immerse yourself within an interactive experience in the world of filmmaking. If you love Harry Potter you can see the original props used in this iconic fantasy world. * Check ticket prices, dates and availability: Warner Bros Studios

Things To Do Alone in Los Angeles

Venice Beach

Escape the crowds

At Huntington Library. But more specifically, the gardens within the grounds of the library. Lose yourself in the Chinese garden or just admire the manicured layout as you sit and relax, away from the city.

Get a great view at

The OUE Skyspace in Downtown LA . Get great views of the city from 69 floors above it at any time of the day. You can even do yoga at sunset here too!

Places to enjoy the sun

At Venice Beach ! Watch others working out at Venice Muscle Beach as you lay on the sand and enjoy the sun. Then take a stroll on Venice Beach Boardwalk and watch the street performers along the 2.5-mile walk.

Go to El Matador to watch the sunset. It’s one of the best coastlines to see the sunset at the end of the day but be prepared to walk down a steep path to get there.

If you love your food, Grand Central Market is the place to be. This food hall has been open for over a century and is a meeting place for people all over the city. Pick up a taco or two at a cheap price.

Discover arts and goods from independent merchants at the Grand Central Market Bazaar .   It is open 7 days a week at 317 S Broadway. 

Do a spot of window shopping

Active GatG

Stroll around Echo Park Lake admiring the flowers and the skyline of Downtown LA as you pedal yourself around. You can even hire a pedal boat if you prefer your view from the water instead of land.

Another of the outdoor activities Los Angeles is to cycle the Marvin Braude Bike Trail. This bike path starts from Will Rogers State Beach and stretches along the west coast, finishing 22 miles later at Torrance County Beach.

Arty & Museum GatG

If you love Monet, you’ll love the Monet Immersive Experience . This 360-degree digital art exhibition and one of a kind VR experience give you the chance to see the world of the French artistic genius, Claude Monet. You’ll learn about his life and career as you step into his artwork and his creative world.  

Shopping GatG

You have to go to Rodeo Drive! Especially if you’ve seen the movie Pretty Woman, which featured the Beverly Wilshire Hotel here. You don’t need to spend hours though as most people visit the area near Santa Monica Boulevard and Wilshire Boulevard. Just take your credit card with you if you’re planning to actually shop in Versace instead of just looking through the window.

Have a tourist moment

At Hollywood Boulevard. Or at Six Flags Mountains, a theme park with more than 200 acres of roller coasters, and comic characters. Look out for Wonder Woman or Bugs Bunny when you’re there.

Griffith Observatory

If you have access to a car, why not do the American thing and drive to a drive-in to watch a movie. There are several movie theatres that you can drive in to choose from. Head to SoCal with your bag of popcorn and wile away a few hours watching one of your favourite films.

See the stars (literally!) Stare at the evening sky through one of the telescopes at Griffith Observatory. It's one of the places to go at night in Los Angeles and if you’re here at the right time, you may be lucky enough to have a talk with one of the astronomers who can show you exactly what you’re looking at.

If you love dancing, and you’re in LA on a Saturday night, spend your evening learning salsa in Los Angeles . Not only do you get a chance to mingle with others but you also get to learn the basic moves of salsa and bachata. It’s sociable, fun and you get to exercise too!  

If it’s LAX nightlife that you’re after, you can’t go wrong at the legendary Sunset Strip. This famous area is home to The Viper Room, and the Roxy Theatre and has music, comedy and plenty of partying to keep you going for hours into the night. You may want to team up with others to experience the nightlife.

To make the most of your trip, be sure to book a LAX car service in advance so you can sit back and enjoy the ride. Using a local car service with a professional driver at the wheel allows you to take in the sights without having to worry about traffic or navigating your way around. 

Get Your Guide  – Get Your Guide helps you to find top-rated day tours and activities in Los Angeles. Choose from Hollywood tours seeing celebrity homes, a semi-submarine cruise on Santa Catalina Island, or a Newport Beach 2 hour whale watching tour. Some of the tours require a minimum of 2 people but there are plenty to book as a solo such as a Beverly Hills and Hollywood helicopter tour and it’s really simple to use. Just check the reviews, price and availability then book online. Read my Get Your Guide review  or click the link below for all their tours. *  Check rates and availability for all GYG tours

Viator  – Viator are similar to Get Your Guide. They are an American company and a tour platform with more than 345,000 tours and worldwide activities. They also offer Los Angeles day trips such as a Catalina Island day trip with Discover Avalon scenic tour. Although some of their tours in Los Angeles have a minimum of 2 people, there are several tours to join as a solo. Read my   Viator review   or click the link for all their tours. *  Check rates and availability for all Viator tours

Intrepid Los Angeles – If you’re searching for some company to explore the USA with, Intrepid Travel is a responsible travel company that offers active tours within Los Angeles and its surrounding area. Choose from a 5 day LA to Vegas adventure, a 10 day trip from Vegas to LA exploring the Grand National Parks, 11 days from LA to San Francisco or explore Wild Western USA over 11 days.

There are several to choose from. On each tour, you share a room with someone of the same gender or you can pay extra for your own room. Intrepid operate a flexible booking policy so you can change your travel plans up to 21 days before departure. Read the  Intrepid Review here   or click on the link below for their tours.  *  Click rates and availability for Intrepid tours

Los Angeles is a large and diverse city, and there are many neighbourhoods that can be great for solo female travellers. I stayed near the Walk of Fame which was within walking distance of the main attractions (I could see the Hollywood sign from my hotel!) As with any city, it's a good idea to take basic safety precautions and avoid walking anywhere at night. Here are my recommendations. 

West Hollywood: This area is known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping, and dining, as well as its LGBTQ+ friendly community. It's generally safe and easy to navigate, with plenty of hotels and Airbnb options.

Santa Monica: Located on the coast, Santa Monica is a popular beach town with a laid-back vibe. It's also home to the famous Santa Monica Pier and Third Street Promenade, which offer plenty of entertainment options.

Beverly Hills: This upscale neighbourhood is known for its luxury shopping and celebrity sightings. While it may be more expensive than other areas, it's generally safe and has plenty of high-end hotels and rental properties.

Los Angeles has all types of accommodation no matter what your budget. From hostels to motels and international hotels with a view of the Hollywood Sign. 

Plus there’s Airbnb which offers rental accommodation in Los Angeles on a short-term basis and rooms in LA with a local. You can stay in a private room in a local's house or rent their whole apartment. 

For those who prefer the freedom of the open road consider hiring an RV and driving yourself around the USA stopping in Los Angeles on the way. As a solo traveller, you’ll have plenty of space for your accommodation, your own transport and possibly a kitchenette too.

RVshare allows you to compare RV rates from different brands and find local owners near you. In most cases, they deliver to a specific location or park, so the home-away-from-home will be ready and waiting for you on arrival. Plus, you can bring your pet! Prices start from $75 a night. * Book a campervan with RVshare

All of the accommodations below have been recommended by solo female travellers from our Girls about the Globe community and come with our Solo Female Friendly endorsement.  * Check rates and availability for all accommodation in Los Angeles

The Steady – $

For the budget GatG, The Steady is a stylish hostel located in the Hollywood district. Some of the beds are more like a pod and have their own privacy with a private curtain. There is a common room to meet others with a clean and natural atmosphere and design. You can find a hairdryer in the bathroom and lots of natural light. Stay as a solo and leave with new friends. Choose from a single bed in a mixed or female-only dormitory room. * C heck rates and availability for The Steady

Hotel Indigo – $$

Hotel Indigo is a chic 4 star hotel in LA. Nothing is too much to ask here. The rooms are clean and spacious with a gorgeous design and some with a city view. There’s a sun terrace, an outdoor pool, restaurant and bar, and even a nightclub. All rooms have soundproofing so you can enjoy a quiet night’s sleep and come with a coffee machine. Breakfast is option but they do cater for vegans. Choose from a superior double, an executive twin or king, or a king studio suite. * Check rates and availability for Hotel Indigo

Loews Hollywood Hotel – $$$

This 4 star hotel has everything that you need for your Los Angeles stay. Close to Hollywood Boulevard and the TCL Chinese Theatre and Dolby Theatre, the Loews Hollywood Hotel is in the perfect location for exploring. You don’t even need to leave the hotel for dinner as there are several restaurants onsite and you can indulge in California cuisine or even a cocktail.

There’s a sun terrace and rooftop pool for relaxing in after a day of sightseeing. The rooms come complete with a coffee maker, a minibar and an iPod dock. Choose from a city view king or double, a capitol king or a king room with a view of the Hollywood sign. You’re in Hollywood baby! * C heck prices and availability for Loews Hollywood Hotel

Plan a Trip to Los Angeles

If you are planning a trip to Los Angeles, below are useful websites such as local costs, visas and vaccination requirements and airlines that fly there. 

Budget – $150 USD + a day 

Population – 3.967 million

Language spoken – English

Local Currency –  US Dollar  

Do I need a visa?  Yes, if you are a British Citizen and other nationalities

Vaccinations Required  

Useful Info

Airlines to Los Angeles

The Best Time to Go – April and June  

Which Plug Do I Need?  

Events and Festivals in Los Angeles  

Local Cost Guide  

Local Customs & Etiquette  

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2 Days in LA: The Must-Sees on a Short Trip to Los Angeles

Are you planning a short visit to Los Angeles or are you looking for what to do in LA for a weekend?

Los Angeles, California is one of the top cities for many visitors to the USA

‘The City of Angels’… What do you do with just two days to sample this sprawling city?

I just went to LA for the weekend , to at least get a glimpse of the city we all know from so many movies. The city that’s home to Hollywood, Baywatch, and the Playboy Mansion. The city where many dream the American dream while waiting tables and pumping gas…

Over the years I’ve been to LA on several occasions to visit friends and although I’ve never fallen in love with this city (I much prefer San Diego ), Los Angeles is well worth a visit. And if you visit, even if it’s just for two days, at least try to visit some of these highlights:

What to Do in LA – the Must-Sees on a Short Trip

1. santa monica pier.

The Santa Monica Pier, used as the setting for so many scenes in movies, is definitely a must-visit in Los Angeles.

When one thinks of Santa Monica, the famous pier with its iconic red and yellow Ferris Wheel inevitably comes to mind. The Pier offers quite a decent amusement park, combined with plenty of restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops.

If you have some time to spare walk to the Third Street Promenade which is a nice retail, dining and entertainment area with a lovely atmosphere.

For more information check out  Downtown Santa Monica’s website

2. Venice Beach Boardwalk

Venice Beach and its famous boardwalk are well known around the world for their funky and offbeat vibe.

This 1.5 mile (2.5 kilometer) boardwalk has a bike path, skateboard ramps, restaurants, shops, and plenty of tourists.

Venice Beach is famous for muscle beach , where bodybuilders strut and invariably get mentioned in LA guides…

On the west side of the “walk” you can find hundreds of street vendors and performers. You can see everything from break-dancing to broken glass walking.

The Westside offers unique arts and crafts and on the Eastside you find the storefronts of the boardwalk. Here you will find every sort of t-shirt under the sun plus tattoo and piercing stores, skate and surf shops, marijuana dispensaries, and more. This is all in addition to the large selection of restaurants, juice spots, and bars.

If you are looking for what to do in LA for a weekend, Venice Beach definitely is a good option.

Visit LAParks.org for more information about Venice Beach.

Tip: If you love the beach and a laid-back vibe, consider a day trip to Catalina Island

3. Hollywood and the Hollywood Walk of Fame

Although it has declined from its peak glamour days, especially around the fabled Hollywood and Sunset boulevards, Hollywood is still the site of such show business shrines as the Walk of Fame and the trendy Melrose Avenue shopping district.

And it therefore deserves to be on this list of places to visit, even if you only have 2 days in LA.

The Walk of Fame, “Where the Stars are Immortalized”, comprises more than 2,500 stars embedded in the sidewalks along 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard and three blocks of Vine Street. It’s overrun by tourists but it is one of these things you just have to see while in LA.

Hollywood is well known for its great nightlife so if you have time to fit in a visit to a trendy club or a happening bar, spend an evening here!

The area known as the Westside, located between Hollywood and the coast, is a more upmarket area and home to such glamorous neighborhoods as Beverly Hills and Bel Air. It is also the site of the famous Rodeo Drive shopping area.

4. The Hollywood Sign

Fun fact: the Hollywood Sign, the worldwide symbol of the entertainment industry, was actually created as an outdoor ad campaign for a suburban housing development called “Hollywoodland”.

The sign overlooks Hollywood and again it is just one of those things you have to see while in Los Angeles.

It’s actually illegal to get close to the Sign, which is set behind restricting gates and protected by security cameras and Park Rangers. And even though the sign is 45-feet (almost 14 meters) tall, it is quite difficult to get a good shot of it.

Some say around 3000 Canyon Lake Drive is the best place to see the Hollywood sign .

Or, if you are looking for a unique experience, book a helicopter tour that will take you right over the Hollywood sign for an incredible view!

5. Miracle Mile

Miracle Mile is a stretch on Wilshire Blvd, home to four major Los Angeles museums : LA County Museum of Art, La Brea Tar Pits (Page Museum), Craft Contemporary, and Petersen Automotive Museum.

If you want to add a bit of culture to your 2 days in LA then you should definitely visit the Miracle Mile.

6. Getty Museum

The J. Paul Getty Museum, commonly referred to as The Getty , is an art museum housed on two campuses: the Getty Center and the Getty Villa.

The Getty Center is located in the Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles and is the primary location of the museum. The collection features Western art from the Middle Ages to the present. Its estimated 1.3 million visitors annually make it one of the most visited museums in the United States .

The museum’s second location, the Getty Villa, is located in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood and displays art from ancient Greece, Rome, and Etruria.

For more information visit The Getty’s official website

Tip: if you really want to know everything about the Getty museum you can book a private Getty museum tour with an expert guide

7. Griffith Park & Griffith Observatory

Griffith Park is a large municipal park. It has been referred to as the Central Park of Los Angeles but is much larger, more untamed, and rugged than its New York City counterpart.

It holds the Griffiths Observatory where you can look through telescopes, explore exhibits, see live shows in the Samuel Oschin Planetarium, and enjoy spectacular views of Los Angeles and the Hollywood Sign.

For more information visit Griffithobservatory.org

8. The Original Farmers Market

The Farmers Market is an area of food stalls, sit-down eateries, prepared food vendors, and produce markets .

First opened in July 1934, it is also a historic Los Angeles landmark and I’d highly recommend stopping here for lunch or a snack.

Thanks to LA’s ethnic diversity you can taste food from all over the world here! It’s definitely one of my favorite places to visit when I go to LA for the weekend.

For more information go to Farmersmarketla.com

LA in 2 Days – Tips to Save Time & Money

Los Angeles is a big city, things are quite spread out and LA traffic can get pretty bad!

If you are only in LA for the weekend or for a short visit, I’d recommend checking out these 3 things:

1. LA in a Day – This is a tour of the highlights of Los Angeles which includes transport and ‘skip the line’ options to get to the main attractions quicker.

They have great guides and just make your visit to the must-visit places in Los Angeles a lot more convenient!

2. The Sightseeing FLEX Pass : If you are planning to visit several attractions this card will save you a lot of money !

You can choose a pass for 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 attractions and save up to 50% on admission prices.

3. LA’s Hop-On Hop-Off Bus : If you don’t feel like driving in LA’s crazy traffic, the hop-on hop-off bus is a great option.

It takes you to Beverly Hills, Hollywood, around downtown Los Angeles and to Santa Monica Pier, so that you can visit all the main sites conveniently and at your own pace.

Where to Stay in LA

Are you not sure where to stay yet in Los Angeles?

Then check out my article about cool hotels in Southern California , which includes several hotels worth staying at in LA.

LA Events, Tours & Attractions

LA is worth visiting year-round but if you do happen to be there during a movie premiere then so much the better! 

Or look into attending one of LA’s many events. To find out what’s happening in Los Angeles while you are there check out these websites:

• TimeOut Los Angeles
• LA Weekly’s Event Calendar
• Discover Los Angeles

There really is a lot to do in LA and it can all add up quickly. But, you can find a lot of discounts as well. If you are looking for discount tickets for tours and attractions in and around Los Angeles I recommend checking out this website .

One Final Tip For Any Visit to Los Angeles: Rent a Car!

A common complaint about Los Angeles is that it’s so big and spread out and it feels like it goes on FOREVER! 

So, do as the locals do: drive. Rent a car , especially if you only have a few days in LA and want to see as much as possible.

Looking for an easy road trip from Los Angeles? Check out What to Do in Big Bear for a Perfect Short Trip

About Los Angeles, California

“Los Angeles is the land of delusions. You can live your life thinking you’re the best invention since sliced bread and no one will question your self-importance.” – Thoughtcatalog

Los Angeles has long been known as a city of dreams, a place for the dispossessed or disillusioned to start over and rebuild their lives. In the course of the twentieth century it grew to be the second-largest city in the United States, after New York City .

LA is a tourist magnet known for its sunny climate, beautiful beaches, and entertainment industry. But, in recent decades the city has also experienced the downside of urban expansion, with its air pollution, traffic congestion, and racial and ethnic tensions.

Yet the city remains a colorful, thriving metropolis working to overcome the problems of suburban sprawl.

Situated in Southern California, Los Angeles is one of only two U.S. cities without a majority population . People from 140 countries, speaking approximately 86 different languages, call Los Angeles home.

The city has a population of around 4 million and attracts over 50 million tourists per year.

L.A. is a crazy city where it seems to be all about looking healthy, refreshed and athletic. Juice cleanses, exercising, the perfect tan, and the perfect plastic surgery.

But, with all its craziness this unique American city is well worth a visit!

“In New York, you’re only allowed to be an asshole if you’re interesting. You have to earn the privilege of behaving like a dick. In Los Angeles, however, you can just be a dick. No funny jokes or good personality needed!” – Ryan O’Connell

• 9 Things to Do on a Family Day Out in Los Angeles
• A Catalina Island Day Trip from Los Angeles
• The Highlights of Santa Barbara
• A List of Day Trips From Los Angeles

Want to See More of California?

Check out my other articles about where to go and what to do in California .

And for more inspiration for weekend trips, check out this article about the best US weekend getaways .

Hotel Review: JW Marriott Santa Monica Le Merigot

When I was last in LA for the weekend I stayed at JW Marriott’s Santa Monica Le Marigot hotel. It’s a hotel worth mentioning and I will therefore share my review.

Hotel Rooms: the rooms are spacious, very comfortable, clean and well maintained, with a good quality bed. Many offer a good view of Santa Monica beach.

Hotel Facilities: the hotel has a good gym, a spa and a nice lobby. Both the bar and the restaurant offer outdoor seating which, with the perfect Californian weather, is a great extra. Too bad the layout and walls around the property take away most of the sea view while seated on the terrace.

Hotel Location: absolutely perfect! With its direct access to Santa Monica Beach and short walk from the Santa Monica Pier it’s hard to beat this location.

Hotel Value: prices start around $300 per night, so this hotel isn’t cheap. But then you do get an amazing location and a comfortable hotel with good facilities and friendly staff. You pay extra for parking and in-room internet (unless you are a Marriott member) which at the hotel rates they charge I find a shame.

Overall rating: 8/10

If you are looking for where to stay in Los Angeles and want a comfortable hotel at a great location, JW Marriott’s Santa Monica Le Marigot hotel is definitely a good option.

For more information and to book online: JW Marriott Santa Monica Le Merigot

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This post about 2 days in LA contains affiliate links. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links, at no additional cost to you.

3 thoughts on “2 Days in LA: The Must-Sees on a Short Trip to Los Angeles”

I was in LA for ten days last September and I’m definitely going back next year. There’s just so much to see and do. There really is something for everyone.

I loved reading about your Los Angeles short trip experience. Your descriptions really made it come alive for me. Happy travels!

Wow, amazing! I missed out some of them. But I will visit when I can get a chance to go to LA again. Thanks for sharing.

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Backpacking Los Angeles Travel Guide (2024 • Surfing & Tacos)

Enter you, cruising the dusky beachfront in open topped Maserati and wearing expensive branded sunglasses that don’t make a difference to sun glare at all…

AHAHAH. Nope. Get on the subway.

LA is famous for many things, including overpaying people for pretending to be other people, hosting several of the most glamorous parties on the planet, and LEGOLAND.

Being affordable is sadly not one of these things.

So how are you to navigate this pit-trap of tourism, celebrity, and overpricing? Will you leave victorious and covered in Kendall Jenner’s lipstick? Or feeling like an ageing burlesque performer on an off-night?

In your time of greatest peril, you’re going to need my RAZOR-SHARP backpacking Los Angeles travel guide  to sort out all the issues that arise in such an exceptional city. Let us distance ourselves from cliché, and unravel the true secrets of LA…

Why Visit Los Angeles?

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A major facet of any Californian foray , Los Angeles is carefully coiffured and preened by Hollywood’s underpaid writers to induce feelings of youthful vibrancy (or startling melancholy, depending in the state of the writers’ marriage).

But does it hold up to it’s on-screen appearance…?

Los Angeles is a city that sprawls . Think long-limbed feline or your disappointment in Avatar 2. Of course, there are the stunning attractions of Santa Monica , the temptations of Hollywood, and a downtown filled with questions, but there isn’t a focal point, so be ready for a fair amount of movement!

Famous for long sunsets, beachfront mansions and neon lit parties where you can flirt with disgruntled C-grade celebrity, LA certainly holds an openness that many cities lack. There is also a ton of street life – performers, basketball games and general idleness make it seem pretty lively, especially on the beachfront.

My advice; treat it like a collection of towns, and make use of one of the top metro systems you can find on any trip round the USA . The best way to be in LA is to take things slow. Adjust to the pace, and remember that every time you leave the house, your wallet will try a ‘new viral weight-loss trick approved by top doctors’.

What Are The Major Attractions in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles and its associated areas would take a long time to thoroughly explore. It’s a massive area, and there’s a ton to see and do. Even so, the very best places to visit in Los Angeles can be narrowed down.

Here’s what you shouldn’t miss out on during your trip:

Venice Beach

• Griffith Observatory

Santa Monica

• The Getty Center
• Sunset Boulevard

How Long Should I Spend in Los Angeles?

Let me start off by saying that LA is massive, and attractions are spread out. Which is why I recommend you stay for at least 3 days, though 5 would give you way more flexibility. You’ll have plenty of time to hit the hotspots, as well as take day trips from LA .

Having a rough plan of what to do in Los Angeles is the key to a successful visit. To give you a guideline, I’ve created a three-day Los Angeles itinerary , featuring the best (but also the most mainstream) places to visit in Los Angeles.

Note : For this itinerary, you don’t necessarily need to rent a car, though you would have more freedom if you did. This pertains mostly to Day 2 and 3. The choice is yours.

Day 1 in Los Angeles: Hollywood and Downtown LA

To start your Los Angeles trip, check out a few Hollywood Stars’ names set in the sidewalk on the Hollywood Walk of Fame located on the famous Hollywood Boulevard. Pass by the famous Chinese Theater. Avoid the stupid touristy shops selling movie memorabilia.

Hollywood is filled with plenty of quirky not-touristy shops to pop into as well including some epic thrift/second-hand shops. Next up: China Town .

China Town isn’t super impressive, though you can buy almost thing there, including fireworks, pocket knives, and every Chinese knick-knack under the sun.

Next, spend the whole afternoon exploring the historic Downtown Los Angeles . Check out the LA Flower Market (in the Fashion District). When the time comes for a snack or an early dinner, definitely hit up the Grand Central Market for your choice of delicious food.

For the ideal end of your day, head to Griffith Observatory to catch the sunset over the Hollywood Hills and the skyscrapers of Los Angeles. After dinner, you can hit the town in search of a few frosty micro-brews, or just turn in early and save energy for tomorrow.

If you are staying in Hollywood again, there are dozens of fun bars. Ask your friendly hostel staff which bars are best in your area.

Day 2 in Los Angeles: Venice Beach and Around

Day two begins with an early (or maybe slightly slow) morning, depending on how your night went.

If you got your own wheels sorted, you’re good to go. Hit the freeway in the direction of Santa Monica, and stop at The Getty Center for a bit of free entertainment before your beach day.

In Venice Beach , there is enough to keep you thoroughly entertained all day. You can rent a bike and cruise the boardwalk. Check out the local rippers at the famous skatepark (where I spent time during my teenage years)..

If it were me, I would probably stay in Venice for the night, but since you have a car (or maybe not) you can head down the road a few minutes to Santa Monica.

Santa Monica is a bit cleaner, more upscale, and much less festival-like. Well, it is just a normal beach town I suppose.

Be sure to check out the Third Street Promenade . The boardwalk area is nice enough and the Santa Monica Pier is the classic place to watch the sun go down as the surfers catch their final waves for the day.

Day 3 in Los Angeles: Universal and Beyond

Let’s start off your last day in L.A. with a trip to one of the most iconic theme parks in the country: Universal Studios . Hop on some of the thrilling rides or check out the working movie studio, the choice is yours.

After a fun-packed day, catch a sunset from the Hollywood Sign , one of those L.A. attractions that everyone should see.

After admiring one of the best views in the city, grab dinner and performance at The Hollywood Bowl , a famous outdoor amphitheater that tends to have something going on.

Spending More Time in LA?

Los Angeles County is HUGE, so if you have more time to spare, there’s a ton more to keep you busy in and around the city. While I definitely think you should take the time to check out the top L.A. attractions, Los Angeles has a lot more to offer than the Hollywood Sign.

From some of the best hikes in California to unique museums you won’t quite find anywhere else, L.A and its surrounding beach towns can easily fill your schedule for a few weeks. Consider getting off the beaten path a bit in some of these places:

• Hike at Runyon Canyon : Treat yourself to some seriously epic views with this rewarding local hike that’s located out in West Hollywood.
• Shop at the Farmer’s Market : Browse through more than 85 stalls at this popular (and historic) open-air farmer’s market. It’s been open since 1934 and has the coolest items.
• Check out the Walt Disney Concert Hall : For a heft dose of truly iconic architecture, look no further than this shimmering silver-colored concert hall. I doubt you’ve ever seen a building shaped quite like this! Plus, the acoustics inside are fabulous too.
• Explore the California Science Center : Anyone will enjoy this world-class science center, which features immersive exhibits and even boasts an American space shuttle.
• Spend a day on Zuma Beach : Located in nearby Malibu, Zuma Beach is one of the nicest in the area and is ideal for swimming, surfing, or catching some rays. If you’re a little time rich, Airbnbs in Malibu are worth the splurge!

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Los Angeles is the kind of city where you could spend a few months exploring and still never experience it all.

Here is my list of the top 10 things to do in Los Angeles to get your ideas flowing…

1. Eat Taquitos at Olvera Street, Downtown Los Angeles:

Located just across from LA Union Station, Olivera Street is where LA as a city began. Now it is an important historic and cultural centre for Latin American communities. Try the Taquitos with green avocado sauce at Cielito Lindo. So damn good. So good in fact I think I’ll repeat myself.

2. Stargaze the Griffith Observatory

Griffith Observatory is a great place to catch the sunset, take in views of the Hollywood Sign and hills, and generally gain perspective on the great beast known as Los Angeles. Griffith Park itself, where the observatory is located, is totally worth a visit too.

3. Visit Universal Studios Hollywood

This famous theme park is so well known for a reason–it’s the only working movie studio and theme park on Earth! Take a private studio tour to get behind the scenes, or spend the day in the park which features Harry Potter and Jurassic Worlds.

4. Check out Venice Beach

Surf. Sand. Subculture.

That is Venice.

Oh and some of the best people watching anywhere in the USA.

4. Go to A LA Dodgers Baseball Game

If you are coming from overseas, I realize that baseball might be a foreign concept. To see the game in person is to understand more of its cultural importance within LA and the greater USA. In any case, Dodger Stadium is a great place to spend a summer evening eating salty peanuts and taking in the scene.

6. Take a Meal or Two at Grand Central Market Los Angeles

Love it! All of the amazing diversity of LA cuisine represented in one place, for low prices. Heaven. The Grand Central Market is a must-visit if you are exploring downtown LA.

7. Hike to the Sunken City

In 1929, a landslide caused a neighborhood of fancy homes to crumble into the sea. Ok, the name “Sunken City” makes this place sound more epic than it actually is.

That said, a hike on the coast in San Pedro to the site of the Sunken City is beautiful. Plus it is cool to see just how powerful nature can be when it decides to reclaim the land.

8. See Celebrity Homes in Beverly Hills

A luxury homes tour with a twist, as you’ll be seeing everything from a top an electric bike! Pass by top sights like Rodeo Drive and the famous Beverly Hills sign, along with 30+ celebrity abodes.

9. Go to a Weed Dispensary

Since January 2018, an ever-increasing number of legal marijuana dispensaries have opened for business. If you possess a valid ID and 21 years of age, you can buy some of the best weed on planet earth in all its various forms.

It’s that simple. The pot shop is fast becoming a favorite amongst people backpacking in Los Angeles.

10. Hike the Trans Catalina Trail

If you have the time to spare, I highly recommend tackling the 37-mile Trans Catalina Trail spanning the island.

Staying on Catalina Island is beautiful, and it’s only about 46 miles off the coast of LA. The island is home to wild buffalo, stunning scenery, and plenty of Hollywood history. Don’t be like me and do this hike in August as it’s hot AF.

In the event that a Couchsurf host isn’t available or you want to move around a bit, you are going to need to book one of LA’s top hostels . They’re not just a great place to meet like-minded travelers, they’re normally a lot more affordable too. If you’re backpacking Los Angeles on a tight budget, this is your go-to.

You can also check out some of the Los Angeles Airbnb listings. You might just be able to score a private room for almost as cheap as a dorm bed, if you’re lucky.

As I mentioned before, you will no doubt be spending your time outside the city center. There are some really cool vacation rentals in Los Angeles that are not downtown.

For those really wanting to travel on the cheap, there are some good motels in LA that don’t dent your budget too badly. You can save some money without foregoing privacy.

The Best Places to Stay in Los Angeles

When choosing where to stay in L.A. , you can’t go wrong with any of these fab listings:

Hollywood, California is a top destination for tourists and our recommendation for where to stay in Los Angeles for the first time.

Venice Beach is a fun and funky neighbourhood located on the Pacific Ocean and on of the best places to stay in Los Angeles if money is tight. West of Downtown LA, this neighbourhood epitomizes California cool.

Downtown LA

Downtown LA is the neighbourhood in the centre of the city. It is a busy metropolis punctuated with high towers, tall buildings, bustling streets, and lively shops.

West Hollywood

West Hollywood is one of the coolest neighbourhoods in LA. It is one of the most fashionable parts of town known for its high-end boutiques and independent vintage shops.

Santa Monica is a fabulous neighbourhood located in western LA, and one of the best places to stay in Los Angeles by the beach. It perfectly combines the convenience of a busy city with the laid-back atmosphere of the beach.

Every budget traveler backpacking Los Angeles should have an honest and realistic idea of what the associated travel costs are here. Like most places in a developed western country, a trip to Los Angeles can be as expensive or as cheap as you want to make it.

Staying in Hollywood is for the most part is going to be way pricier than staying in a less famous area. It’s all about choices.

Los Angeles is blessed with plenty of cheap or free things to enjoy. There are also 5-star hotels and places to eat in Los Angeles where you can spend a month’s rent before dessert arrives.

LA ain’t South America. However, with a little preparation and budget savviness, you can backpack Los Angeles on the cheap.

If you are on an extremely  tight budget, it would be possible to visit Los Angeles on as little as $25- $40 a day . This would involve outside forces coming together to help you in some way or another, IE utilizing Couchsurfing  and friends.

A comfortable budget allowing you to eat well, do things, stay in a hostel, and even rent a car would be more like $80-100+ a day .

A Daily Budget for Los Angeles

Here is what you can expect your average daily backpacking costs to be in Los Angeles:

Los Angeles on a Budget – A Few Tips and Tricks

In order to have a successful trip backpacking Los Angeles on the cheap, you will need to be very budget-conscious. Stuff here adds up fast. One bad choice of where to eat or where to sleep can send your budget into the meat grinder.

• Visit Free Museums ! : The Getty, LACMA (free every other Tuesday 11 am- 5 pm), and the Natural History Museum are all free (except for certain dates).
• Eat Mexican Food : Mexican food in Los Angles is cheap, abundant, and delicious. I am an LA-area native and I miss Mexican food on a weekly basis. You can score a seriously filling and delicious meal for under $10, even less at a taco truck.
• Drink Cheap Beer at the Bar : In many bars, if you order a typical American beer IE Budweiser, Coors, PBR, ETC, you can usually score a pint for about $3. Go for happy hour and 2×1 specials.
• Take the Bus/Public Transportation : I’ll be honest with you: LA is lagging when it comes to public transit, but there is still enough connections to get by. The Metro is great for quickly getting from Downtown LA to Hollywood.
• Hang out at the Beach : Hanging out at the beach is free and besides the beach is at least half the reason Los Angeles ever became world famous.
• Walk : Walking in Los Angeles does have its limits. Distances can be huge! That said, plan your daily travel route in a way that doesn’t have you doubling back in an Uber or on the metro multiple times. Explore Downtown LA and cities like Hollywood, Venice Beach, and Santa Monica as much as you can on foot.
• Couchsurf : If you can swing it, staying with a local for free is an obvious boon to cutting down your biggest cost, accommodation.
• Pack a travel water bottle   and save money every day!

Why You Should Travel to Los Angeles with a Water Bottle

Plastic washes up all over Los Angeles County… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful!

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Good news! Southern California and Los Angeles are home to year-round sunshine. Growing up, I remember many Christmas days when I was in shorts and a t-shirt. However, during the summer, the temperatures can be intense.

Los Angeles receives a majority of its over 42 million annual visitors during the summer months (June- August). Beaches are slammed, and traffic feels worse, though it is probably the same.

Main attractions found throughout the city and around tend to be more crowded in the summer. Winter and summer do have very different vibes in LA.

The best time to visit Los Angeles is in the spring. Temperatures are mild, the sun is shining, flowers are blooming, and the days are starting to get longer again. The fall is nice too. Summer is doable; just be prepared for crowded beaches and long, sweaty days.

Avoid August. Temperatures routinely break 100 degrees F and the smog and air pollution hovers over the city in a stagnant dirty cloud. A bonus to backpacking Los Angeles in the winter is that it is possible to go skiing or snowboarding in the mountains 2-3 hours from LA.

What to Pack for Los Angeles

Here are a few items I definitely think you should add to your California travel packing list :

Osprey Daylite Plus

Any city slicker needs a SLICK daypack. In general, you can never go wrong with an Osprey pack, but with its array of awesome organisation, durable materials, and a comfy build, the Daylite Plus will make your urban jaunts buttery smooth.

Grayl Geopress Filtered Bottle

Save $$$, save the planet, and save yourself the headache (or tummy ache). Instead of sticking to bottled plastic, buy a Grayl Geopress, drink water no matter the source, and be happy knowing the turtles and fishies thank you (and so do we!). 🙂

OCLU Action Camera

Wait, it’s cheaper than a GoPro and… better than a GoPro? The OCLU action cam is the cam for budget backpackers that want to immortalise all their wildest adventures – including that time you dropped it off a Himalayan mountain – WITHOUT breaking the bank.

Solgaard Solarbank

Resourceful travellers know how to find power outlets anywhere on the road; smart travellers just pack a solar power bank instead. With 4-5 phone cycles per charge and the ability to top up literally anywhere the sun is shining, there’s no reason to ever get lost again!

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

ALL travellers need a headtorch – no exceptions! Even in the hostel dorm, this beauty can save you in a real pinch. If you haven’t got in on the headtorch game, DO. I promise you: you’ll never look back. Or at least if you do, you’ll be able to see what you’re looking at.

Generally speaking, Los Angeles is a safe city to travel in. Major landmarks and touristy areas are very safe. There are certain parts of the city with high rates of violent street gangs, drugs, and major crime issues. Cities and areas like Compton, South Central LA, and Skidrow should either be avoided altogether or at least off-limits at night.

Los Angeles is MUCH safer than it was in the 1980s and 1990s, be sure.

All the same, don’t go wandering into unknown areas, loaded with cash, and your attention diverted towards staring at Google Maps for directions. Keep your wits about you at all times, especially in the city center, in Hollywood at night, and around Skidrow, always.

Backpacking Los Angeles does not need to be a dangerous endeavor. Employ the same travel safety methods that you would in any city in the world and you should be just fine.

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ‘n’ Roll in Los Angeles

There’s certainly no shortage of any of the above in L.A., the city thrives on it all. From legal weed and craft beers to ecstasy and meth, literally any drug on the planet can be found in this city. You should be extremely careful though–fentanyl overdoses are a big issue in the city and they have been for years.

If you do want to try a non-legal drug, always test before trying. LA offers test kits to the public at numerous locations, and it’s always worth doing. I highly recommend playing it safe and enjoying the city’s legal weed scene, which is one of the most developed in the world. A word of warning on edibles though: they are EXTREMELY strong. The high is often very different from smoking too, so always start with less and wait long enough to give them a chance to kick in.

Always keep your wits about you in the City of Angels and remember that the city does attract a very wide variety of people and not all may have good intentions. Don’t allow yourself to be sucked into a situation you’re not comfortable with–whether it be with a love and sex on the road debacle or a problematic situation with newfound friends.

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Los Angeles

Medical care in the US is expensive! It’s a great idea to get insured before visiting, especially when traveling to a major city like Los Angeles.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Los Angeles is served by one major international airport: Los Angeles International Airport, aka LAX . Though it is important to keep in mind that there are several other main (some international) airports that should be considered when booking airline tickets.

These include John Wayne Airport (SNA), Ontario Airport (ONT), and Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), which is legally known as the Bob Hope Airport.

In my experience, flights in and out of LAX are always the cheapest. If you are traveling to LA in the low season (November, for example) it is possible to find round-trip flights from Europe for as little as $350. Norwegian and XL Airways are the best cheap airlines connecting Europe and Los Angeles as of now.

The cheapest way to get from Los Angeles to San Francisco or vice versa is to take the bus which can cost as low as $18 (7 hours/Megabus). You can try to travel by hitchhiking between the two cities is a possibility too, but comes with the associated risks.

FlyAway offers shuttles between LAX and Union Station (in the Los Angeles City Center) seven days a week for $9.75 each way (estimated travel time: 35 mins).

How to get around Los Angeles

A brief look at some of La La Land’s best methods of transportation:

Quick Answer:

• LA Metro :  Primary trains running all around Los Angeles Area. Good for long and short journeys.
• Metro Bus :  Buses serving additional routes close to metro lines.
• Dash : Quick Downtown bus transport.
• Flyaway : Airport shuttle bus – LAX – City Center route is very convenient.
• Uber / Lyft : Ride sharing apps, well, you know what they’re about. Great for short distances.
• Taxi : The original ride hailing service, now on its last breath. Thanks, Uber.

How to Choose the Best Transportation in Los Angeles

The best way to get around whilst backpacking Los Angeles depends on what you plan on doing. Really, I would try to avoid driving at all costs if you plan to stick around the city center and Hollywood. There is simply no need to rent a car if you spend most of your time in those two places.

The traffic in Los Angeles is part of the reason I will never live in Southern California again, so help me God. Driving in LA traffic is stressful and unpleasant, and Los Angeles public transportation leaves much to be desired.

The metro is the best way to get between Los Angeles and Hollywood. A one-way fare is  $1.75. If you plan on taking the metro multiple times in one day go for a metro day pass, as its cheaper ( $7 ).

Uber is also a great option for short distances and it is typically cheaper then hailing a cab (sorry guys!).

If you really want to get out and explore the greater Los Angeles area, you will need to rent a car. Having your own wheels is essential for getting to the beach, going on most hikes, and traveling off the beaten path.

Avoid driving during rush hour (7 am – 10 am and 3 pm – 6:30 pm)! Unfortunately, traffic is just part of the backpacking Los Angeles experience. For a tiny car rental without insurance, you can find deals as low as $20/day.

Get 15% OFF when you book through our link — and support the site you love so dearly 😉

Booking.com is quickly becoming our go-to for accommodation. From cheap hostels to stylish homestays and nice hotels, they’ve got it all!

The US has very strict work policies, so don’t expect to be able to land a proper job in Los Angeles unless you’re a citizen or permanent resident.

Digital nomad life is possible, though definitely NOT cheap, so be sure you truly understand L.A.’s exorbitant costs of living before moving long term.

Volunteering opportunities also exist. And if you’re looking to travel long-term on a budget in  Los Angeles  whilst making a real impact on local communities, look no further than  World Packers .

World Packers is an excellent platform  connecting travelers with meaningful volunteer positions throughout the world. In exchange for a few hours of work each day, your room and board are covered.

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with  meaningful travel experiences.

The nightlife in Los Angeles has something for every traveler. Perhaps no city in the world is better known for its wild and lavish parties than LA.

Just to be clear, the likelihood of you finding yourself at a legendary Los Angeles party if you are a newly arrived broke backpacker are slim to none. Saying that, I don’t know how you operate, so anything goes I guess.

No matter what is your idea of a good time, you will find it whilst backpacking Los Angeles. On any given night of the week, you are liable to find a live show spanning all genres: punk, techno, hip-hip, reggae, pop, rap, metal, alternative, bluegrass, folk, indie…it is all on the table.

Same goes for clubbing, if that is your thing.

Whilst some of the bigger name music venues are not so cheap, there are plenty of hole-in-the-wall clubs, bars, and low-key venues that have reasonable prices. Many might not even have a cover charge.

The sky is the limit, really. You could find yourself sipping champagne with celebrities and spending more money than you have made in the last two years in a single hour. Or you could be chilling on the beach around a bonfire sipping back a few beers after an afternoon of surfing.

Whether you enjoy hearing some soulful bluegrass, going nuts at a punk show, or just feel like having a game of pool with your mates at the bar, it shouldn’t be too hard to find what you like in the C ity of Angels .

Dining in Los Angeles

Now onto one of the best parts about traveling: eating and drinking! Los Angeles is blessed with a very diverse population. Every imaginable nationality has culinary representation in Los Angeles.

If you crave it, you can certainly find it. Mexican food – and Hispanic food in general, for that matter – is the most abundant for obvious reasons. Latin American ethnicities make up a large percentage of the population of LA county and it’s one of the best places in the USA to try Latin cuisine!

Here is a quick run down of the different types of places to eat and drink in Los Angeles :

• Diner/Cafe ($-$$): Diners can be generic franchise stores open 24/7, frying up all things American IE bacon and eggs, pancakes, burgers, sandwiches, milkshakes etc. Diners can also be high-end, offering seasonal brunch menus that use local ingredients. These are of course better, though more expensive.
• Food Trucks  ($-$$): I love food trucks. Sometimes the tastiest, most authentic taco or Bahn Mi sandwich you will ever have will come from a food truck. Often food trucks are very cheap compared to sit-down places. Try as many as you can! The Avenue 26 taco stand at 26th and Humboldt in Lincoln Heights has the reputation of blowing away the competition. Locals and travelers alike swear by it. Go.
• Fast Food ($): As I said before, I will probably judge you from afar if you eat shit fast-food, though I know that sometimes budget restrictions and/or alcohol call for desperate measures. Do it if you must. One exception to fast food is In-n-Out Burger. Talk to anyone in California and they will tell you they make the best cheap burgers around. It’s true…
• Restaurant ($$-$$$): The whole gauntlet of restaurants can be found in LA. If you love food, try to save money in your budget to eat at least once at a nice-ish spot of your choosing. For the best Thai food in town, try Night Market Song . Worth traveling to.
• Bar/Pub ($-$$): Bars also vary across the board in Los Angeles, but generally speaking they are good places to both socialize and blow your budget. Go to a bar whilst backpacking Los Angeles, but try not to get more than a drink or two if you want to hold onto your money.
• Club ($$$): Clubs are always expensive. They are, well, clubs. People go to them to party and have fun. If going to a club is your idea of a good time, there is no shortage of them in LA. Just be prepared to pay for the pleasure.

Cheap Eats in Los Angeles

Los Angeles has some of the most expensive food in the world, but it also has some killer budget eats that will have you coming back for more.

Thanks to its thriving street cart scene, Los Angeles is actually one of the only places in the US where you can find such quality tastes at low prices.

• Tacos : This isn’t a specific place, but rather a whole category of Los Angeles budget eats. You can find them all over Los Angeles county, from famous trucks to low-key spots only locals know of.
• Baja Subs Market & Deli : Serving up the incredible Sri Lankan food that you didn’t know you needed, Baja Subs is known for its out of the world portions and flavors.  It’s a bit out of the way, but it’s worth the ride.
• Dino’s Famous Chicken : Famous for its juicy grilled chicken and fries, Dino’s has some of the best value meals in town.
• My Dung Sandwich Shop : This Vietnamese spot is known for its banh mi, and its prices can’t be beat as far as cheap, quick meals go.
• The Apple Pan : Expect incredible burgers and pies at this blast from the past classic American diner.
• Earle’s On Crenshaw : For the best hot dogs and chilli, head to this no-frills spot which also has vegetarian options.

It’s no secret that LA is one of the most popular places to visit in the world. The city of the rich and famous is as glam as can be, all while boasting some of the best weather in the country and a wide variety of things to do.

No California trip is complete without a few days here, but as this Los Angeles travel guide has shown, exploring this city doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of hikes, museums, hole-in-the-wall-eateries, and even underground tunnels to explore if you just know where to look!

Here are some cool experiences that most visitors to L.A. don’t even know about:

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Hikes in and Around Los Angeles

Los Angeles and the surrounding tangle of concrete, freeways, buildings, and humanity can be quite overwhelming. So where does one go to find a little peace? Let’s dive into some of the best walks and hikes in Los Angeles …

• Runyon Canyon : This park is in West Hollywood, and makes for a great urban escape. Killer views of LA can be gained, and the outer loop hiking trail will definitely wipe you out in the summertime.
• Trans Catalina Trail Hike: If you have 2 or 3 days to spare, this hike traversing Catalina Island is bound to be a highlight of your backpacking Los Angeles experience. Who knew that there are buffalo on an island just off the coast of LA? Well, they’re not exactly native. Humans put them there, but they are still cool. This is one of the best hikes in the USA !
• Cahuenga Peak and The Wisdom Tree : This is an excellent hike that takes you to the Hollywood sign, but without the normal troupe of tourists. Few people know about it because it is a new trail, so enjoy the peace while it lasts.
• Santa Monica Mountains : Once you leave the city behind and head for the coast a whole other world of hiking opportunities awaits. The hikes in the Santa Monica Mountains are quite varied and range from easy jaunts to difficult, steep hot treks.
• Sandstone Canyon : This hike is popular, but for good reason. There is excellent rock climbing and sweet views of the ocean once you get up high enough. If you are going to make the effort to do one day hike whilst you are backpacking Los Angeles, this is the one.
• Los Liones Trail to Parker Mesa : A moderate coastal hike with great views and just enough solitude (during the week at least) to make you forget you’re in LA.
• Malibu Creek State Park:  Want to check out a lake, a small river, and do a bit of rock climbing? This is the spot for you.
• Joshua Tree NP : With extra time in LA, it’s worth taking a weekend trip to hike in Joshua Tree National Park , just 3 hours away (which is nothing to Californians). There is plenty of epic hiking (and rock climbing) at Joshua Tree. This is also one of the  best places to watch the stars in the US.

The USA is  blisteringly beautiful. It’s also blisteringly expensive! Visiting two national parks in day can run you $70+ in entry fees.

Orrrr… you kick those entry fees to the curb, buy an annual ‘America the Beautiful Pass’ for $79.99,  and get unlimited access to ALL 2000+ federally managed sites in the States totally FREE!

You do the math. 😉

Beer and Brewpubs in Los Angeles

Over the last several years, craft beer has gained immense popularity in America and quality brewers have finally come to LA. Here is a list of some of the top Los Angeles Breweries/Brew Pubs. No trip backpacking Los Angeles is complete without trying a few local cold ones.

• Los Angeles Ale Works : Hawthorne, food trucks on site.
• Smog City Brewing Company : Long Beach, ranked at the top of the best beer in La list.
• Brewyard Brewing Company : Glendale, California lager specialists.
• Brouwerij West : San Pedro, fun vibes.

Wine Bars in Los Angeles

Back in the day, Southern California grew a ton of wine grapes. Times have changed and local grape farming is not what it use to be. That said, there are still plenty of good wineries making quality products in Southern California, and of course heaps up north in Napa Valley, Sonoma, Paso Robles, etc.

Here are a few places to drink wine in Los Angeles:

• Tabula Rasa : Hollywood, a hidden gem in the middle of Thai town.
• Restoration Wine Bar : Torrence, Fine wines, craft beers.
• A.O.C : Los Angeles, amazing, authentic tapas.

Getting Off the Beaten Path in Los Angeles

If you are in town a couple of extra days (or months) there is plenty to keep you busy. Take a look at some fine off-the-beaten-path adventures to be found in Los Angeles:

• Check out LA’s lesser-known beaches :  El Matador State Beach –  This beach in Malibu might just be the best-kept beach secret in the Los Angeles Area. Stunning rock formations dominate the coastline, instead of people. My kind of spot. Abalone Cove Shoreline Park in Palos Verdes and Leo Carrillo State Beach in Malibu are also winners free of human hordes.
• Go to a Music Venue that is not the Hollywood Bowl : Ok so the Hollywood Bowl has hosted some fantastic musical acts, including The Beatles, but there are other places to grab a decent show. There are numerous great music venues, that are definitely worth a visit.
• Go to a Not-So-Famous Museum : There are many. To name a few: The Museum of Broken Relationships, the Museum of Jurassic Technology, and the Historic Native American South West Museum.
• Explore the Hidden Tunnels of Los Angeles : Street art, urban decay, and plenty of history make the secret tunnels (former bootlegging hub) a fascinating place to explore. 

Here’s what people usually asked when heading out on a backpacking trip to Los Angeles.

Is LA cheap to visit?

Ha ha – you thought…? Nope. Los Angeles is one of the most expensive places to visit in the entire USA. But fear not–LA can be cheap to visit if you employ some tips from this backpacking Los Angeles travel guide.

What is the best month to visit Los Angeles?

March and April are generally the best months to visit L.A. The weather is usually great and it’s low season for tourists. September and October are generally blessed with plenty of sunshine too.

What are the dos and don’ts in Los Angeles?

If you want to have the best time possible in Los Angeles I recommend these two things: eat at the food trucks, and get off the beaten path! Afterall, there is more to the City of Angels than Hollywood.

Is it legal to smoke weed outside in Los Angeles?

Marijuana IS legal for everyone 21 and over. But lighting up on Sunset Boulevard definitely isn’t. California law prohibits smoking on public land. Even so, I doubt you’d be the first to (successfully) give it a try somewhere out in nature.

How much does it cost to go to Los Angeles?

Los Angeles sure ain’t cheap. If you have somewhere free to stay, you can definitely swing some backpacker budget days. Otherwise, expect to spend at least $100 a day, but don’t be surprised if that number is even higher.

And we’ve now reached the very end of this Los Angeles travel guide! I hope you now feel much more prepared for your visit to the City of Angels.

If you haven’t realized by now, this city is truly incredible. From your traditional famous activities to off-the-beaten-path hikes and picture-perfect beaches, it’s no wonder that visiting Los Angeles is a dream for many. There are so many things to do in this city, but be careful with your spending. One night out in Hollywood or Beverly Hills could easily do some serious damage.

Whether you want to walk the streets of the rich and famous or simply lounge on a stunning stretch of sand, Los Angeles has something for everyone .

So what are you waiting for? Book that ticket, lock in your accommodation, and get ready for a wild ride in one of the most infamous places on Earth!

And if there’s only one thing you take from this guide let it be this: do not, and I repeat, DO NOT, miss out on the legendary street tacos!

Author’s Note : Special thanks to my good amigo Tim Donohue for his contributions to this article.

Updated May 2023 by Abe Lea

Chris Lininger

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This is SUCHHHH an amazing article!!! Thank you so much for making this! I’ve been wanting to visit LA for so long but never really looked into how to do it for cheap and you really covered all the bases and more. I can’t thank you enough for this article. I’ll be using it to plan my trip without a doubttt

As a los angeles local, Sandstone canyon is my fav place. def worth a visit.

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The best road trips from L.A.

From weekend jaunts to extended vacations, here’s a list of the best road trips from L.A.

One of our favorite things about L.A. is that you can leave its urban sprawl at a moment’s notice and suddenly find yourself surrounded by nature just a few miles out of town. Whether you’re interested in a whole  weekend getaway  (hello, Vegas or Big Sur) or need a nearby day trip to get some fresh air (maybe Joshua Tree?), this list has a destination for every kind of traveler.

We’ve included some suggestions of things to see and do at each locale, but for some of the bigger destinations—like nearby desert and Bay Area cities—we’ve focused more on the journey, with links out to full guides to each spot for once you’ve wrapped up the road part of your trip. So hop in the car, crank up the tunes and take your pick of scenery: Forest, beach , desert and mountain landscapes all make up these gorgeous road trips from L.A. Happy travels!  

RECOMMENDED: The best day trips from Los Angeles

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here .

An email you’ll actually love

Top road trips from L.A.

1.  Palm Springs

Miles from L.A.: ~105 Suggested round-trip time: 2 days min. A quick and easy trip from L.A., Palm Springs is definitely doable over a weekend. Head east past miles of wind farms, where turbines cast formidable shadows and make an otherwise monotone landscape come alive. Look out for prehistoric creatures on the side of the road; the 50-foot Cabazon Dinosaurs (a Brontosaurus and a T. Rex, to be exact) are a popular roadside attraction. You can check out the gift shop (in the bront’s belly), but to climb to the top of the T. Rex and sit in his mouth (a la Pee-wee during his big adventure), you’ll have to fork over $15 and weave your way through a fascinating, if factually inaccurate dino park. When you arrive in Palm Springs, pick up a map of modernist buildings at the Albert Frey-designed Palm Springs Visitors Center for a self-guided architecture tour of the town.

Discover the best  things to do in Palm Springs .

2.  Joshua Tree

Miles from L.A.: ~130 Suggested round-trip time: 2–3 days min. Joshua Tree is one of the most magical places in California (and the country, we think). The national park’s varied and alien landscapes—due mostly to gnarled, ancient Joshua Trees and giant boulders strewn willy nilly—make for impressive scenery during leisurely drives. The stargazing is choice here, and wild coyotes may howl you to sleep if you plan an overnight camping trip. Stop at Pappy & Harriet’s for lunch on the way, and stick around for live music and a ghost-town stroll. Pick up a new houseplant at the Cactus Mart , or visit the Integratron (reservations required)  for a new-age sound bath and a shady hammock nap. The town of Joshua Tree itself also offers some fun stops, such as the World Famous Crochet Museum , filled with the kind of quirky public art that only exists in tiny, warm-weather communities . 

Discover the best   things to do in Joshua Tree .

3.  Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

Miles from L.A.: ~235 Suggested round trip time: 3 days min. If you’re a tree lover, you must go see the giant redwoods of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks . Driving through and under such gentle giants is an experience that can only be had on the way to and within these parks. Sequoia is slightly more drive-and-look friendly, with cool attractions like the General Sherman Tree, the largest living thing in the world; Tunnel Log, a fallen, hollowed out Sequoia that you can drive your car through; and Moro Rock, a dome-shaped peak accessible via a couple hundred steps. Meanwhile, the winding roads and backcountry trails in Kings Canyon are on every hiker’s bucket list (the drive to the end of Highway 180 is worth it even if you don’t plan on pushing yourself on foot). Just make sure to check conditions before you go: Some roads close after the summer season, and there’s always a risk of wildfires in the area.

4.  Las Vegas

Miles from L.A.: ~270 Suggested round trip time: 3 days min. Our advice? Never fly to Vegas; the drive is too much fun to miss (well, aside from the traffic on the way home ). First, check out Calico Ghost Town . It’s not the most authentic of ghost towns , but it’s a worthwhile detour for a bit of Wild West history. For something a little stranger, look out for exit 23 on the 15, which will lead you to the ruins of the former Zzyzx Mineral Springs and Health Spa. Created by criminal, quack radio evangelist Curtis Howe Springer back in 1944, the resort duped visitors into thinking they were soaking in healing natural hot springs, when in reality all the pools were boiler-heated. (Eventually the FBI shut this little operation down.) Get even weirder seven miles down the road in Baker with an alien sighting at Alien Jerky , a kitschy, alien-themed sundries shop selling flavored jerky, olives, nuts and candy. If you’re hungry for something more substatial, don’t miss the Mad Greek , a surprisingly delicious Greek fast food joint. In fact you can’t miss it, due to the lifesize plaster statues and Parthenon patio. Get a gyro plate to fuel the rest of your journey to Sin City. If you’re itching for the open road once your’re in Vegas, take a loop through Red Rock Canyon , including a 13-mile scenic loop that follows the canyon walls.

Discover the best  things to do in Las Vegas .

5.  Mammoth Lakes

Miles from L.A.: ~310 Suggested round trip time: 3 days min.

Take the scenic Route 395 and you’ll have a view of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountain range for most of this gorgeous drive. When you hit Big Pine, stop for a bite at Copper Top BBQ , a bright red smoke shack that serves piping-hot ribs and tri-tips. You may end up befriending some hungry alpine clibers headed to or from Mount Whitney (the highest point in the contiguous U.S. at 14,505 feet!). Take a small detour east to the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest , home to the oldest trees in the world; some of these beauties have been around for more than 4,000 years. Farther north, stop in Bishop for some fresh-baked loaves or pastries at Erick Schat’s Bakery . Drive up the road to Mahogany Smoked Meats and choose some road snacks from a huge selection of gourmet beef, turkey, elk, buffalo, boar and fish jerkies. Though there’s no formal address, if you’re determined (or willing to ask a local), you can find a group of easily-accessible hot springs right off the 395, just south of Mammoth Yosemite Airport.

6.  San Francisco

Miles from L.A.: ~390 Suggested round trip time: 3–4 days min. There’s more than one way to get up to the Bay; you can choose the scenic route up the Pacific Coast Highway, or the down-and-dirty quick shot up the 5. (Yes, we mean dirty; miles of cattle farms give off a terrible stench, and miles of citrus farms—while more pleasing to the nose—will leave your car covered in bug guts.) For a leisurely road trip, we suggest Highway 1. Stop at the Madonna Inn for a giant slice of cake or a peek into one of the themed guest rooms. If you have more time, Hearst Castle  is a must-see; a sprawling estate with 56 bedrooms, multiple pools, 127 acres of gardens and even grazing zebras. As you continue north, look out for the signs (and smells) of Gilroy, the garlic capital of the world. Take a detour just outside of San Jose for more quirky home architecture at the Winchester Mystery House , supposedly haunted by ghosts of those killed by Winchester rifles, which led Sarah Winchester to build new additions onto the house continuously until her death to confuse the wandering spirits.

Discover the best things to do in San Francisco .

7.  Napa and Sonoma

Miles from L.A.: ~415 Suggested round trip time: 5 days min. There’s so much to explore in Wine Country. Enjoy a picturesque drive up the coast, then swing inland for miles and miles of bucolic, verdant, rolling hills dotted with wineries and farms. Once you get close, you’ll have to pick a direction: west for Sonoma , east for Napa . You can’t go wrong, but it isn’t easy to drive back and forth between the two, so if you don’t have time for both, choose between spread out, rustic Sonoma or more condensed and touristy Napa. Spring for a hot air balloon ride if you can, or spot them from the road in the early mornings. The main event here, of course, is wineries—just be sure to drive safely, or turn the wheel over to Lyft for the day.

Discover the best things to do in Napa .

8.  Lake Tahoe

Miles from L.A.: ~465 Suggested round trip time: 4–5 days min. The scenic Route 395 is one of the loveliest roads in California. Wind your way along the Eastern Sierras, stopping in the small towns of Lone Pine, Big Pine and Bishop for quaint strolls and delicious detours (we’ll repeat here our recommendations for  Copper Top BBQ in Big Pine and the famous Schat’s Bakery in Bishop). The area is perfect for exploration by car; take any westward road to head up into the mountains, where you’ll find pine forests, crystal clear snowmelt lakes and tiny towns. Ask the locals where to find one of many natural hot springs to soak tight muscles from a long day’s drive, or pull off at the Happys, Sads or Owens River Gorge, all world-class bouldering and climbing sites, for some rock scrambling. For otherworldly waterscapes, check out Mono Lake’s “tufas,” spindly towers of limestone buildup reflecting across the saline waters. If you have time, a stop in Yosemite National Park  is a must, as is a hike or stroll (or ski day) in Mammoth. Another worthwhile (if far) detour is Bodie, one of the most legitimate and well-preserved ghost towns in America.

Discover the best  things to do in Tahoe

9.  Flagstaff and Sedona

Miles from L.A.: ~470 Suggested round trip time: 5 days min. The change of scenery you’ll see on this drive is worth the trip alone: from vast stretches of desert into shrub-covered hills, followed by dense forest and—depending on the time of year—even snow. There are plenty of detours along the way: the Hoover Dam (an inspired Art Deco wonder), the Grand Canyon, Death Valley, Las Vegas—it’s definitely a choose-your-own-adventure type of trip, depending on how much time you have. But whether your destination is Flagstaff or Sedona , take the 30-minute drive between the two. Each has distinct offerings; from a hip, small-town feel in Flagstaff with craft beer, live music and friendly folks to stunning views and an overwhelming number of health and wellness spas in sleepy Sedona (treat yo’ self) . 

Discover the best things to do in Flagstaff and the best  things to do in Sedona .

10.  Big Sur

Miles from L.A.: ~350 Suggested round trip time: 3 days min. Arguably one of the most iconic stretches of coastline in the world, the Big Sur area is a road tripper’s paradise. It’s where redwood-covered mountainsides plunge into the surging ocean, with a narrow road carved into the cliffside, offering incredible views and a bit of vertigo. Before you get too far north, stop off at Morro Bay or Pismo Beach (both right near San Luis Obispo) for a dip or a sunbathe and later, look for the sign alerting you of the elephant seals, who crowd along the shoreline. Then steel yourself for a few hours of curves—every one is worth it for the next view around the corner. One of the best ways to see Big Sur is simply by driving along Highway 1, parking your car wherever it looks cool (read: basically everywhere), and following a probably unmarked trail—though be careful of poison oak—down in the direction of the ocean. For more mappable destinations, try the touristy-but-still-totally-worth-it McWay Falls and Pfeiffer Beach for even more stunning vistas (we also used to suggest you check out the Esalen Institute , as their hot spring baths used to be open to the public from 1–3am with a reservation, but that’s been temporarily, if not permanently, suspended). Dying to get off the beaten path? Head up Nacimiento Road to the remote valley setting of Mission San Antonio de Padua —one spot in Big Sur that you just might have to yourself.

Just a heads up: Increasingly common landslides have temporarily shut down sections of Highway 1 in recent years, so make sure to check up on the latest road closures before you depart. You may only be able to reach certain sections of Big Sur from the Bay Area-end of the highway in the event of a closure.

11.  Salton Sea

Miles from L.A.: ~165 Suggested round trip time: 2 days

Driving south down a desolate stretch of the 111, you’d never guess that the lake was a popular vacation spot in the 1950s, with resorts dotting its eastern shore. But increasing salinity and pollution due to agricutlural runoff have turned what was once a luxury retreat into a destination appealing only to those with an affinity for the forgotten and decaying. Explore abandoned structures along the shoreline as sun-bleached fish bones crunch underfoot. When you get hungry, the Ski Inn  is your best option—and one of the only remaining establishments in the area. Make sure to visit late local Leonard Knight’s gigantic folk art sculpture, Salvation Mountain , a rainbow-hued hill emblazoned with the words “God is Love.”

12.  Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks

Miles from L.A.: ~500 Suggested round trip time: 6–7 days min. The route to southwest Utah will take you directly through Vegas, so you can hit up all the roadside attractions listed above before venturing into more scenic landscape on the second half of your journey. There’s no shortage of incredible parks and monuments to check out in this area, so if you’re looking to see some natural wonders, this is the trip for you. A few must-visits are Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park (the backdrop to most Westerns since the 1930s), Glen Canyon National Recreation Area for some swimming amidst the desert landscape (if the season is right) and Vermilion Cliffs National Monument , home of incredible “wave” rock formations and painted desert vistas. You’ll be greeted in Zion by soaring monoliths and sunset-colored cliffs; beyond in Bryce Canyon , the pinks turn to reds in a surreal, hoodoo-covered landscape (hoodoo means rock spire, and is way more fun to say).  

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How to Visit Los Angeles Without a Car

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Visitors to Los Angeles wonder if they really need to rent a car or if it's possible to get around without a car. It's not only possible but for some people, it might make more sense than renting a car, especially if you're going to focus your sightseeing in some specific areas or if driving in an unfamiliar city is going to be stressful for you.

Visitors will be pleased to know that many of L.A.'s top attractions can be seen on a Metro Red Line Tour of Los Angeles . The L.A. Metro subway and over-ground train system can take you within walking distance of many attractions. 

L.A. Tourism also has some resources for car-free Itineraries of specific neighborhoods or following specific themes.  "Car-Free LA" features a series of self-guided car-free vacation itineraries that offer a way to experience the hidden gems of L.A.’s diverse neighborhoods via foot, bike, and Metro. 

If you organize your trip well, you can create your own car-free itinerary that's relatively painless and doesn't cause you to lose too much time in transit. There are strategies for having a successful car-free L.A. vacation.

Best Places to Stay

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If you are without a car, where you stay in L.A. can make a world of difference. Being close to attractions or public transportation is key.

Consider staying in Hollywood . There are many things to do in Hollywood and the vicinity, for example, that can be reached without too much trouble from Hollywood Hotels.

Hollywood also gives you easy access to Downtown L.A. and Universal Studios Hollywood via the L.A. Metro Red Line, the only rapid transit in town. It's quite time-consuming to get to Santa Monica or Disneyland from Hollywood by any public transit options, although it's not impossible. There are many routes that only require one transfer.

Staying in Downtown L.A. is an option. It's less touristy and has less glitz than Hollywood, but there's plenty to do and it's a straight shot to Hollywood or Universal Studios Hollywood, and an easier connection to Disneyland via the Metrolink, Amtrak, or the 460 Disneyland Express Bus.

It's also easier and faster to get to Santa Monica from Downtown than from Hollywood. It's not really closer, just more direct. Consider staying in the vicinity of the  Music Center . You'll have easy walking access to live theater and music, museums, Chinatown nightlife,  El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historic Site , and trendy bars.

You can be in Hollywood in 16-20 minutes via the Metro Red Line from Civic Center or Union Station. If you're used to walking around a big city like New York or Berlin, Downtown L.A. is exceedingly walkable, even if it has multiple blocks of nothing interesting between points of interest. If you're attending an event at the Staples Center, Nokia Theatre, or the L.A. Convention Center then you'll probably want to stay around L.A. Live , an entertainment complex in the South Park District of Downtown Los Angeles adjacent to the Staples Center and Los Angeles Convention Center.

Staying Near LAX

You could also stay at a hotel near LAX   airport and make that your hub. You could then take the Airport FlyAway shuttle each day from LAX to and from Santa Monica, Hollywood or Downtown L.A. to explore.

Even though it's not geographically logical (Hollywood is closer to Santa Monica than to LAX), the directness and economy of taking the Flyaway make it a more efficient hub. If you're the kind of person who is done for the day by 8 p.m., this might be a reasonable option for you. But really, it's more fun to stay where there's actually something going on in the evening .

Santa Monica or Venice Beach

Consider staying in Santa Monica or Venice Beach . If you spend a day or two in Santa Monica and/or Venice Beach, it's easy to get around by bus, or completely manageable by bike. If you're just going from your hotel to the beach, you can probably walk. Most of the hotels and hostels are clustered relatively near the beach, although there are a few further inland. 

Disneyland 

Staying at Disneyland is convenient if that is your main reason for visiting. If you're visiting Disneyland for multiple days, you can get around fine without a car, including visits to surrounding attractions, most of which can be reached on the many Anaheim Resort Transportation (ART) buses. 

Santa Monica and Disneyland do not make great hubs for exploring other places without a car, even if you have hired a limo. It's better to just pack up and move to the next area you want to explore.

Stay in Several Locations

Moving and staying in several locations might work for you. With the itinerary mentioned above as an example, rather than working from a hub, if you're flying into LAX , you might want to start in Santa Monica (or Venice) for a night, then move to Hollywood or Downtown, then Disneyland. This will reduce your between-city transfer time. There are Car-Free Strategies to get from Santa Monica to Disneyland but staying there is very convenient for families.

Stay near the attractions you want to see first thing in the morning to avoid having to travel far to your first stop of the day. While using Hollywood or downtown as a base to explore Hollywood and/or Downtown L.A., you won't be dealing with a rush-hour drive in the morning to get to your first activities.

So if you're planning on taking in Hollywood nightlife, stay in Hollywood. If you're planning on seeing a show or  hitting a club Downtown , stay Downtown. That said, it's best not to plan your Disneyland or Santa Monica day after a late night of partying in Hollywood.

West Hollywood

West Hollywood  has a lot of great hotels, many of which are LGBTQ friendly , and is just down the road from Hollywood, but staying there adds another level of complexity (bus, taxi, ride-hailing) to getting around without a car since it's not on a Metro rail route. So, unless you're staying in a West Hollywood hotel that offers free car service within three miles (which will get you to the Metro) when you're looking for a Hollywood hotel or hostel, try to find something closer to Hollywood and Highland or Hollywood and Vine for the fastest Metro access. 

Most of the tours that you can do in L.A., from bus tours to walking and biking tours, leave from Hollywood or Santa Monica, although some have hotel pick-up from Downtown,  Beverly Hills , or LAX for an additional fee.

Hire a Limo or Town Car

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If you just don't want the hassle of driving in L.A., you can always hire a car and driver to be at your beck and call and take you everywhere you want to go.

If you're traveling alone, it gives you the added bonus of being able to ride in carpool lanes on the freeway, reducing time in transit for greater distances.

If you're traveling with a group or family, it can end up being less expensive than buying individual tours or shuttle fares for everyone in your group.

There are also ride-hailing services in the Los Angeles area. 

Transportation From LAX

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Getting from the airport to your hotel is often one of the biggest ground travel expenses. It is easier than ever to get to the primary tourist hubs economically from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) with the convenient  FlyAway  bus service that provides direct, non-stop service to drop-off points in Hollywood, Santa Monica and Union Station in Downtown L.A., among other destinations.

If you're flying into another airport , you'll still have multiple options for airport transportation to your hotel or other destination, but you may have to choose between convenience and economy.

Other options include rental cars, shared-ride shuttles, car services, taxis, and ride-hailing apps.

Using Public Transportation

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L.A.'s Metro rail subway system is expanding, but still limited. The Metro brand is a county service. There are dozens of  local bus services  and the Metrolink inter-city commuter train service that make up the difference within smaller cities and between cities.

Many of these are now integrated into Google Maps and Bing Maps, so you can map a public transportation route from any point A to point B. However, neither one includes all the options, and they both sometimes offer weird routes.

One of the reasons we recommend staying in Hollywood if you don't have a car is that Hollywood is very walkable . The other reason is that it's the one area where the faster Metro rail is really efficient between Hollywood, Universal Studios, and Downtown L.A., which is the only area where it actually runs underground.

So it's easy to stay in any of those areas and visit the other two via Metro. If you stay in Hollywood, in the vicinity of a Metro station (Hollywood and Highland or Hollywood and Vine), you can be at Universal Studios or in Downtown L.A. in about 15-20 minutes. There are dozens of attractions you can see in this general area within reach of the Metro Red Line, so between walking and public transportation, it's easy to get around these areas.

Taking the Expo Line to the beach in Santa Monica also makes it relatively easy to visit the museums and gardens at  Exposition Park  near the University of Southern California with a quick transfer from the Red Line. You can go from Hollywood and Highland all the way to the beach by metro in 76 to 90 minutes. 

You can also take the Metro, with transfers to the Blue Line or Gold Line, to visit the attractions in Long Beach or Pasadena , but, like the Expo Line, it takes much longer to get there because the trains run above ground and it's a much greater distance.

Getting from Hollywood or Downtown L.A. to Santa Monica via Bus is an option for visiting the beach. From Downtown L.A., Santa Monica's Big Blue Bus Rapid 10 is the fastest route to the Santa Monica Pier. It takes from 45 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on the time of day, usually averaging just over an hour. 

From Hollywood, you can plan your trip for speed, or for scenery. For scenery, Metro Bus 2 takes you through West Hollywood and Beverly Hills along the Sunset Strip to UCLA, where you can transfer to the Santa Monica Big Blue Bus.

Sightseeing Tours

 TripSavvy / Christian Hundley

There are a variety of sightseeing tours that can help you make the most of your visit to Los Angeles without a car. They include walking tours of specific locales, biking tours, horseback riding tours, general  sightseeing bus tours , and special interest tours, including some that act as cross-town transportation, allowing you to get off and explore.

If you're staying in a hostel in Hollywood, there are often organized excursions planned, including to Santa Monica. They will get you to Santa Monica faster than a city bus, and may include additional activities at the beach, but are more costly than taking a city bus.

The Starline Grand City Tour is one of the city tours anyone can book that takes you to different parts of L.A. and gives you a specified amount of time to explore areas like  Rodeo Drive , the La Brea Tar Pits , the L.A. Farmers Market , and Olvera Street. You have to be back at the bus at a designated time to continue the tour.

A more flexible option is Starline's Hop-On Hop-Off Tour . The Hop-On Hop-Off Tour Bus will take you to almost anything you might want to see in L.A., and you can start hopping on from a stop near wherever you're staying in Hollywood, West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Universal Studios, Santa Monica or Downtown L.A. It doesn't go to the Getty Center, Getty Villa, or Disneyland, but its five narrated tour routes do stop at 99 other potential stops, some of which provide access to multiple attractions. Every stop is near at least one tourist attraction. You can buy tickets for 24, 48 or 72 hours that allow you unlimited riding on five routes, plus a connector to LAX. Your Hop-On Hop-Off ticket also gives you discounts to many L.A. attractions as well as 10 percent off other Starline Tours, like the Movie Stars' Homes Tour or Haunted Hollywood Tour.

You can also use the Hop-On Hop-Off Tour as an option for getting you to Santa Monica from Hollywood or Downtown L.A. and you can explore other L.A. attractions along the way. The downside if you're relocating from a hotel in Hollywood to one in Santa Monica is that you'll have your luggage , which may be inconvenient for hopping on and off in between.

Another disadvantage is that the tour buses don't run in the evening, so you'll want to plan your tour loop each day so that the last stop is at or near your hotel, or somewhere with easy alternate transportation back to your hotel. Some of the activities on the tour route might take all day, like Universal Studios Hollywood (which might not be the best use of a tour day), while at other stops you might want to hop off to take a couple of pictures and get on the next bus.

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Los Angeles is vast, so it's hard for most people to conceive of using a bicycle as a primary means of transportation, and we don't recommend it, but if biking is how you get around at home, it's possible to plan your L.A. visit on two wheels as well. Beach cities like Santa Monica,  Venice , and Long Beach are particularly bike-friendly, and you'll see a lot of locals within those communities using bikes on the beach as a primary form of transportation locally. More bike lanes are being added throughout L.A. all the time. Google Maps has a function to show bike lanes to help you plan your route on bike-friendly streets. Most buses have bike racks and the L.A. Metro also accommodates bicycles.

Hollywood and West Hollywood attractions are within easy biking distance of each other, but this is one of the least bike-friendly areas, due to the density of cars and drivers who are unfamiliar with the area. If you're cycling in this area, you may want to stick to smaller parallel streets for going more than a few blocks, rather than trying to navigate the chaos of cars and tour buses on Hollywood Boulevard.

If you're an avid cyclist, it's about 14 miles to bike from Hollywood to Santa Monica and is probably faster than taking a bus, although more treacherous.

If spending the entire day biking around sounds like fun,  Bikes and Hikes L.A.  covers 32 miles from Hollywood through Beverly Hills and movie stars' homes to the beaches and back in five hours in their LA-in-a-Day Bike Tour.

Daily and weekly bike rental rates can be as expensive as renting a car, but you'll save on insurance, parking, and gas.

Getting to Disneyland

National Renewable Energy Lab / Flickr / CC BY 2.0 

The best public transportation route from  Hollywood to Disneyland  is to take the Metro Red Line to the 7th Street/Metro Center station and then take the Metro Express 460 Disneyland Shuttle, which drops you off right at Disneyland.

It takes an hour and a half to two hours depending on traffic. If you stay until Disneyland closes at midnight on a summer weekend night, the last 460 bus back to Downtown L.A. gets you to Hollywood by Metro around 2:30 a.m. 

Another option is to take the Metro Red Line to Union Station, then catch a Metrolink (commuter train) or Amtrak train to Fullerton Train Station, then take the Anaheim ART bus one stop to Disneyland. This gives you two transfers instead of just one, and it takes about the same amount of time or longer.

Disneyland Tickets

It's more efficient to book your Disneyland ticket to include transportation from L.A. hotels. One disadvantage to this is that the hours you get to stay at Disneyland are limited if you plan to use the return to your L.A. hotel. Another is that it may be stopping at a lot of hotels, so isn't necessarily faster than the public transportation options, but it requires less planning.

Another option is to plan your Disney trip for a day or two at the end of your stay and spend your final night or two near Disneyland. You can get the Disneyland Ticket with Transportation option from a broker like Viator, which is still far cheaper than a one-way taxi fare, but don't use the return. Check into a Disneyland area hotel instead. That way you can stay in the park until it closes.

LAX to Disneyland

If Disneyland is your first stop, there are a number of ways you can get there from Los Angeles International Airport without a car. There are so many options, reviewing a resource on Getting to Disneyland from LAX is helpful.

Santa Monica to Disneyland

Getting from Santa Monica to Disneyland without a car is not easy but there are options such as hiring a car, taking a ride-hailing service or, the most difficult, public transportation.

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