Los Angeles, often referred to as the entertainment capital of the world, is a sprawling city with an array of diverse attractions. From the bright lights of Hollywood to the sun-drenched beaches of Santa Monica, there is something for everyone in this iconic city. However, with so much to see and do, planning the perfect trip to LA can be a bit overwhelming. After multiple visits and extensive exploration, I have crafted a five-day classic itinerary that ensures you make the most of your time in this vibrant metropolis. This detailed guide will not only highlight my personal experiences but will also offer recommendations based on the best activities, attractions, transportation tips, and booking platforms.
Day 1: Hollywood and the Walk of Fame
The heart of LA’s entertainment industry, Hollywood is where every visitor should begin their journey. Famous for its glamour, glitz, and iconic landmarks, Hollywood offers a mix of history, culture, and modern attractions.
My Experience:
I started my first day with a visit to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, one of the city’s most famous and recognizable attractions. This was a great place to stretch my legs while soaking in the energy of the city. The Walk of Fame spans over 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard, with more than 2,600 brass stars embedded in the sidewalks. I found myself snapping photos at each star, particularly those dedicated to my favorite actors, musicians, and filmmakers. The area around the Walk of Fame can get crowded, especially in the late morning and afternoon, but it’s definitely worth the experience.
From the Walk of Fame, I made my way to the Hollywood Sign. There are several spots to get a good view of this iconic landmark, but I opted for the Griffith Observatory because it offers the best panoramic view of the city and the sign. The observatory itself is a fascinating place, with free exhibits, and it provides a perfect view of LA’s skyline.
Afterward, I walked over to the TCL Chinese Theatre, famous for its handprints and footprints in the forecourt, where I found myself marveling at the signatures of some of Hollywood’s legends. I also made a quick stop inside to catch a movie, as the theater has one of the most impressive screens in LA.
Location:
- Hollywood Walk of Fame: Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
- Hollywood Sign Viewing: Griffith Park, Los Angeles, CA
- TCL Chinese Theatre: 6925 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
What to Expect:
- The Walk of Fame is bustling, with street performers and tourists taking photos.
- The Griffith Observatory offers spectacular views of the city, the Hollywood sign, and is great for star-gazing.
- TCL Chinese Theatre has a rich history and is home to some of the most famous movie premieres.
Advantages:
- Pros: Hollywood is easily accessible and offers a concentrated experience of LA’s movie history.
- Cons: It can be crowded, especially during peak hours, so starting your day early is essential.
How to Get There:
- I took a ride-share to the Hollywood Walk of Fame to avoid the hassle of parking. From there, I walked to the nearby attractions. You can also take the Red Line subway to Hollywood/Highland Station, which is conveniently located near the Walk of Fame.
Booking Platforms:
- If you want to skip the lines and get a guided tour of Hollywood, you can book a tour via Viator or GetYourGuide, which offer skip-the-line passes for TCL Chinese Theatre and other attractions.
Day 2: The Museums and Culture of LA
Los Angeles is home to a thriving cultural scene, with a range of museums that reflect its diverse history and artistic influence. For day two of my itinerary, I explored some of the city’s most important cultural landmarks.
My Experience:
I began the day with a visit to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), one of the largest art museums in the United States. The museum’s collection is vast, covering everything from ancient art to modern and contemporary works. One of the highlights for me was the Urban Light installation—hundreds of antique street lamps that make for a perfect photo op.
Next, I headed to The Getty Center, perched high in the hills of Brentwood. The Getty offers not only incredible art collections but also stunning architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens. The museum houses works by European masters such as Van Gogh and Rembrandt, and the views from the museum’s terraces offer a unique perspective of the city. I spent a couple of hours here, taking in the exhibits and enjoying the peaceful ambiance.
In the afternoon, I made my way to The Natural History Museum, which showcases everything from dinosaur fossils to exhibits on ancient civilizations. I found the museum’s educational displays to be incredibly engaging, and the Dinosaur Hall was especially impressive. It’s a perfect stop for families or anyone with a keen interest in science and history.
Location:
- LACMA: 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
- The Getty Center: 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA
- Natural History Museum: 900 W Exposition Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
What to Expect:
- LACMA is vast and can take several hours to fully explore, so be prepared to spend time walking around.
- The Getty Center offers a great combination of art, architecture, and views, with plenty of space to relax in the gardens.
- The Natural History Museum is very family-friendly, with interactive exhibits and a detailed look at the earth’s evolution.
Advantages:
- Pros: LA’s museums are world-class and allow for both in-depth and light experiences. The Getty is particularly scenic and offers free admission.
- Cons: The museums are large, and depending on how much you want to see, it may take a whole day to visit just one or two.
How to Get There:
- I took a ride-share from one museum to another, but public transportation is also available. The Getty Center has a free shuttle from Getty Villa (Santa Monica) if you’re coming from further out.
Booking Platforms:
- Getty Center offers free admission, but for LACMA, you can purchase tickets online via their website or through Eventbrite for special exhibitions.
Day 3: A Day at the Beach and Santa Monica
For a more relaxed day, I spent my third day in Los Angeles exploring its famous coastline. California is known for its beautiful beaches, and no trip to LA would be complete without a visit to Santa Monica, Venice Beach, and Malibu.
My Experience:
I started the morning in Santa Monica, with its lively Pier, beachside restaurants, and vibrant shopping areas. I strolled along the pier, enjoying the ocean breeze and the sights of people riding the Ferris wheel. For lunch, I dined at one of the pier’s seafood restaurants, where I indulged in fresh fish tacos and a chilled glass of rosé.
Afterward, I rented a bike from Bikeshare Santa Monica and rode along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, which stretches from Santa Monica all the way to Venice Beach. The path is scenic and relatively easy, offering views of the Pacific Ocean. Once I reached Venice, I enjoyed walking through the famous Venice Beach Boardwalk, which was buzzing with energy. Street performers, quirky shops, and local vendors created a bohemian atmosphere that was both eclectic and fun.
To finish the day, I made the short drive to Malibu for a relaxing evening by the ocean. I stopped at Malibu Pier for a peaceful sunset view, one of the most picturesque spots in the area.
Location:
- Santa Monica Pier: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA
- Venice Beach: Venice Beach, Los Angeles, CA
- Malibu Pier: 23000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA
What to Expect:
- Santa Monica offers a combination of beach fun, shopping, and dining.
- Venice Beach is perfect for people-watching, with an artsy vibe and lots of action along the boardwalk.
- Malibu is the epitome of coastal beauty, ideal for those looking for a quiet and scenic escape.
Advantages:
- Pros: These beaches offer a mix of activities—whether you’re relaxing, biking, shopping, or enjoying the ocean.
- Cons: Santa Monica and Venice can be crowded, especially on weekends. Parking can also be a challenge during peak times.
How to Get There:
- I used ride-sharing services to move between the different beaches, which is the most efficient way to get around. If you’re staying nearby, public transportation options are available, but renting a bike is highly recommended.
Booking Platforms:
- Santa Monica Bikeshare can be booked via their mobile app for easy access to bikes.
Day 4: Exploring Downtown LA’s Hidden Gems
On the fourth day, I dedicated my time to exploring the lesser-known, but equally fascinating, parts of Downtown Los Angeles. This area has undergone a resurgence in recent years and is home to some of the city’s most unique attractions.
My Experience:
I began my morning at The Broad, an incredible contemporary art museum that houses a wide collection of postwar art. The museum itself is a work of art, with its futuristic architecture and free admission policy. I particularly enjoyed the Infinity Mirror Room by Yayoi Kusama—a mesmerizing exhibit of mirrored lights that felt otherworldly.
Next, I visited Grand Central Market, a bustling food hall that features a variety of LA’s best food vendors. I indulged in a taco from Tacos Tumbras a Tomas, followed by a sweet treat from McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams. The market has a great vibe, and it’s a perfect place to sample LA’s culinary diversity.
In the afternoon, I took a walk through the historic Olvera Street, a colorful, vibrant street in the heart of LA’s old district. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in LA’s Mexican heritage, with markets selling everything from handmade jewelry to traditional street food.
Location:
- The Broad: 221 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA
- Grand Central Market: 317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA
- Olvera Street: Olvera St, Los Angeles, CA
What to Expect:
- The Broad is a cultural treasure trove, with modern art and interactive exhibits.
- Grand Central Market offers a diverse mix of foods, ideal for a foodie’s delight.
- Olvera Street is rich in history, perfect for those who enjoy cultural exploration.
Advantages:
- Pros: These locations provide a deep dive into LA’s artistic and cultural scene.
- Cons: Parking can be tricky in Downtown LA, so I recommend using public transport or ride-sharing.
How to Get There:
- I used ride-sharing services for convenience and ease of access. Downtown LA is well-served by public transit if you prefer that option.
Booking Platforms:
- The Broad offers free entry, but for special exhibits, it’s recommended to book tickets online via their official website.
Day 5: Shopping, Dining, and Relaxation in Beverly Hills
On my final day, I relaxed and indulged in a bit of luxury with a trip to Beverly Hills. This iconic neighborhood is known for its upscale shopping, fine dining, and charming atmosphere.
My Experience:
I began my day with a visit to Rodeo Drive, where I strolled along the famous shopping street. Even though I wasn’t planning to buy any designer goods, it was fun to window shop and see the high-end boutiques. I couldn’t resist popping into a few stores to try on some luxury clothes.
Afterward, I had lunch at Spago, one of LA’s most renowned restaurants, located in Beverly Hills. The dining experience was impeccable—world-class service, fresh ingredients, and a sophisticated ambiance.
To finish my trip, I spent the afternoon at Beverly Gardens Park, a peaceful park with fountains, beautiful gardens, and the iconic Beverly Hills sign.
Location:
- Rodeo Drive: Beverly Hills, CA
- Spago Beverly Hills: 176 N Canon Dr, Beverly Hills, CA
- Beverly Gardens Park: 9439 Santa Monica Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA
What to Expect:
- Rodeo Drive offers high-end shopping, ideal for fashion enthusiasts.
- Spago is a Michelin-starred restaurant that provides an unforgettable dining experience.
- Beverly Gardens Park is an idyllic place to wind down after a day of shopping.
Advantages:
- Pros: Beverly Hills offers luxury shopping, fine dining, and charming, Instagram-worthy spots.
- Cons: It’s quite expensive, so it’s best for those willing to splurge.
How to Get There:
- I used a ride-share to reach Beverly Hills, and parking is available, although it can be limited.
Booking Platforms:
- Reservations for Spago can be made via OpenTable, and shopping on Rodeo Drive doesn’t require any booking, but it’s always best to check for seasonal sales and discounts.
Los Angeles is a city that offers a bit of everything—iconic landmarks, stunning beaches, world-class museums, and luxurious experiences. My five-day itinerary allowed me to experience the city’s diversity, from Hollywood’s glitz to the tranquility of Beverly Hills. Each day was packed with memorable activities, and I found that the best way to explore LA is by balancing iconic must-sees with hidden gems. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this classic itinerary ensures that you’ll make the most of your time in this vibrant city.
