LA is beaches, movie magic, world-class museums, taco trucks and canyon hikes. It’s also traffic and long distances, so a smart plan makes all the difference. This guide covers the essentials and links to our detailed LA guides.
Top things to do in Los Angeles
- Griffith Observatory: free views of the Hollywood Sign and the city.
- The Hollywood Walk of Fame and the TCL Chinese Theatre.
- Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach: the boardwalk, the canals and Muscle Beach.
- The Getty Center: free art and architecture with ocean views.
- Universal Studios Hollywood, including Super Nintendo World. See tickets.
- Malibu and the Pacific Coast Highway: beaches and coastal drives.
- Downtown LA: The Broad, the Walt Disney Concert Hall and Grand Central Market.
See all 20 best things to do in Los Angeles, or compare LA tours and studio tours.
Where to stay in Los Angeles
- Santa Monica: the beach, walkability and safety. Great for first-timers.
- Hollywood and West Hollywood: nightlife, central for sightseeing.
- Beverly Hills: luxury and calm.
- Downtown: museums, rooftop bars and Metro access.
Read our full LA area guide, or check hotel prices in Los Angeles.
Getting around Los Angeles
Most visitors rent a car or use Uber and Lyft. Metro Rail is useful for some routes, such as Downtown to Hollywood (B Line) and Downtown to Santa Monica (E Line). Avoid driving at rush hour (about 7–10am and 3–7pm), and budget for parking.
LAX to the city
| Option | Cost | Time |
|---|---|---|
| FlyAway bus to Union Station (Downtown) | ~$12.75 | 35–60 min |
| Free shuttle + Metro C/K Lines | Metro fare | Varies |
| Uber / Lyft (from LAX-it) | Varies with demand | 30–60+ min |
| Taxi (from LAX-it) | Metered or flat fare | 30–60+ min |
Details are from FlyLAX. Full details are in LAX to the city.
Best time to visit Los Angeles
LA is sunny most of the year. March to May and September to November bring warm days with fewer crowds. Summer is hot inland but mild at the beaches, and “June gloom” brings morning clouds. Winter is mild, with occasional rain. Read the best time to visit LA.
Entry and practical tips
Visa Waiver travellers need an ESTA (apply at esta.cbp.dhs.gov). The fee is $40.62 from 16 October 2026. Tipping of 18–20% is standard. Sales tax is added at checkout. Get a USA eSIM and travel insurance. Heading inland? See our Las Vegas guide.
Los Angeles guides
- 20 best things to do in Los Angeles
- Los Angeles itinerary: 3, 4 or 5 days
- Where to stay in Los Angeles
- Universal Studios Hollywood tickets
- LAX to Downtown, Hollywood and Santa Monica
- Best time to visit Los Angeles
FAQ: Los Angeles travel
How many days do you need in Los Angeles?
Four to five days covers Hollywood, the beaches, the Getty, Downtown and a theme park or Malibu.
Do I need a car in Los Angeles?
It helps a lot. Rideshares work well too, and Metro covers some routes, such as Downtown–Hollywood and Downtown–Santa Monica.
Is Los Angeles expensive?
Yes. Hotels, parking and theme parks are pricey, but many top sights, like the Getty, the Griffith Observatory and the beaches, are free.
Is Los Angeles safe?
Tourist areas are generally fine with normal city precautions. Don’t leave anything visible in parked cars.
Plan your trip to Los Angeles
The trusted services we use to plan our own trips.
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