This city is so huge and diverse it’s best not to try and cover it all in a day, which wouldn’t even bear thinking about. LA is split into six regions including famous hotspots such as Hollywood, Santa Monica and Beverly Hills. Most visitors concentrate on just one or two areas, including a taste of beach life and Hollywood for the big sights.
What it is: The second-largest city in the United States and the entertainment capital of the world, where Hollywood glamour meets sunny beaches and urban sprawl.
Affordability: Expensive, with high costs for hotels, dining, and attractions, though budget options exist for food and transport.
Safety: Generally safe, but petty crime, homelessness, and traffic-related concerns exist in certain areas.
Popularity: A top global destination, attracting millions for its film industry, beaches, and cultural diversity.
Tourist Infrastructure: Well-developed, though the city’s vast size makes renting a car or using rideshares almost essential.
Accommodation Options: Budget motels, boutique hotels, beachfront resorts, and luxury celebrity-favored stays.
Dining Scene: Exceptionally diverse, with high-end restaurants, legendary taco trucks, and iconic fast food spots.
Nightlife: Eclectic, with rooftop bars, beachside lounges, live music venues, and Hollywood nightclubs.
Weather: Warm and sunny year-round, with minimal rainfall and mild winters.
Best Time to Go: March to May and September to November, when the weather is pleasant and crowds are smaller.
Known For: Hollywood, beaches, movie studios, palm trees, celebrity culture, theme parks, traffic, sunny weather.
Top Attractions: Hollywood Walk of Fame • Santa Monica Pier • Griffith Observatory • Universal Studios Hollywood • Rodeo Drive • Venice Beach • The Getty Center • Sunset Boulevard.
- Population: Approximately 3.9 million in the city; around 13 million in the metropolitan area.
- Emergency Numbers: 911 for police, fire, and medical emergencies.
- Time Zone: Pacific Standard Time (PST), UTC -8; Pacific Daylight Time (PDT), UTC -7 (March to November).
- Currency: U.S. Dollar ($ USD); ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted almost everywhere.
- Language: English is the official and primary language; Spanish is also widely spoken.
- Electricity: Standard voltage is 120V; plugs are type A and B (North American standard two- and three-pin plugs).
- Internet: Excellent coverage; free Wi-Fi is available in many hotels, cafes, libraries, and public areas.
- Convenience stores: Found throughout the city, 7-Eleven, Circle K, and many independent shops are common.
- Nearest International Airport: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) (about 18 miles / 29 km southwest of downtown).
- Trivia: Los Angeles is home to Hollywood, the global center of film and entertainment, and has more museums per capita than any other U.S. city.
- Iconic Local Foods: Must-try dishes include street tacos, Korean BBQ, In-N-Out Burger, and French dip sandwiches.
- Fun Fact: The Hollywood Sign originally read “Hollywoodland” when it was erected in 1923 as an advertisement for a real estate development.
Los Angeles is a sprawling city of sunshine, celebrities, and cultural landmarks, known worldwide for its ties to the entertainment industry. Most tourists come to visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame, iconic beaches like Venice and Santa Monica, and attractions like Universal Studios. But LA’s true appeal lies in its diversity, whether you’re exploring art museums, trendy neighborhoods, or scenic hiking trails, the city offers something for everyone.
What sets Los Angeles apart is its mix of glamour and laid-back living. It’s a city where film studios, surfboards, and taco trucks all coexist, and its patchwork of neighborhoods, from Beverly Hills to Koreatown, showcases a global mash-up of cultures and lifestyles.
Top attractions include the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory, The Getty Center, Rodeo Drive, and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). The beaches, Santa Monica, Venice, and Malibu, are a must, while Disneyland and Universal Studios provide family-friendly thrills. Hiking in Griffith Park or Runyon Canyon offers sweeping city views.
Delve a little deeper past the Walk of Fame, Venice Beach, Disneyland and Beverley Hills and you’ll discover plenty of culture, best seen in the ethnic areas of Chinatown, Korea Town and Little Tokyo. Shopping is also a pastime in LA and offers a chance to rub shoulders with celebrities along Rodeo drive and at the Beverly Center.
For lodging, Hollywood and Downtown LA are convenient for first-time visitors, while Santa Monica and Venice cater to beach lovers. West Hollywood (WeHo) is known for its nightlife and LGBTQ+ scene. LA’s accommodation options span luxury hotels, trendy boutiques, and budget motels.
Getting around can be tricky, LA is a car city, and traffic is legendary. However, the Metro Rail system, buses, and rideshares like Uber help bridge the gap. Renting a car is useful for visiting far-flung spots, but parking can be a hassle.
Dining in LA reflects its global population, offering everything from Korean BBQ and Mexican tacos to vegan fine dining. The nightlife is just as varied, with rooftop bars, live music venues, comedy clubs, and mega-clubs. Shopping ranges from designer boutiques on Rodeo Drive to funky finds at Melrose Trading Post.
Los Angeles is generally safe, but some areas (like parts of Skid Row or South LA) are best avoided at night. Petty theft can occur, especially in tourist areas and at the beach, so keep an eye on your belongings.
Why Go to Los Angeles?
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Hollywood & Entertainment: Explore film studios, celebrity hotspots, and landmarks tied to the movie industry.
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Beach Life: Relax or surf at iconic beaches like Santa Monica, Venice, and Malibu.
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Diverse Neighborhoods: Discover the cultural richness of areas like Koreatown, Little Tokyo, and the Arts District.
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Year-Round Sunshine: Enjoy LA’s mild climate, perfect for outdoor activities and scenic hikes.
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World-Class Dining: Savor a global mix of cuisine, from food trucks to Michelin-starred restaurants.
Who Might Not Enjoy Los Angeles?
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Visitors Without a Car: Public transport is improving but still limited, getting around without a vehicle can be frustrating.
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Those Wanting a Compact City: LA is spread out; expect long distances between attractions.
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Crowd-Averse Travelers: Tourist hotspots and freeways are often crowded, especially during peak seasons.
What’s Cool
Hollywood Walk of Fame and studios, Griffith Observatory and Hollywood sign, Santa Monica and Venice beaches, Getty Center and LACMA, iconic food trucks and In-N-Out Burger, Rodeo Drive shopping, hiking in Runyon Canyon, vibrant arts scene in Downtown LA, Lakers and Dodgers games, theme parks (Disneyland, Universal Studios), film spots everywhere (La La Land, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood), sunny weather.
What’s Not
Heavy traffic and long commutes, high cost of living, crowded tourist spots, smog and air pollution, expensive parking, homelessness issues in some areas, spread-out city layout, pricey attractions, unpredictable service at restaurants, few walkable neighborhoods, summer heatwaves, long lines at theme parks.
Los Angeles is located in southern California, on the Pacific coast, stretching from the beaches of Santa Monica and Malibu to the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. It covers a vast urban and suburban area, about 190 km (120 miles) north of the Mexico border. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the main gateway, supported by other regional airports, with cars remaining the primary mode of transport due to the city’s sprawl.
Spanning around 1,302 km² (503 mi²), Los Angeles is a decentralized city made up of many neighborhoods and districts, each with its own identity. The main tourist zones include Hollywood, Downtown, Santa Monica, Venice, Beverly Hills, and West Hollywood. The city is known for its film industry roots, sprawling freeways, and blend of beaches, hills, and urban landscapes.
Most tourists stay in Hollywood, Santa Monica, Downtown LA, or near Beverly Hills, offering access to key attractions and amenities.
Hollywood
Hollywood is world-famous for its entertainment history and is packed with movie-related landmarks. It’s touristy and bustling, making it ideal for visitors wanting to see the Hollywood Walk of Fame and nearby studios.
- Accommodations: (Mid-Range) - Chain hotels, boutique options, and budget motels.
- Nearby Attractions: Hollywood Walk of Fame • TCL Chinese Theatre • Hollywood Bowl • Hollywood Sign
- Dining: (Tourist-Oriented) - Chain restaurants, casual spots, and themed cafés.
- Nightlife: (Lively) - Bars, clubs, and music venues.
- Shopping: (Touristy) - Souvenir shops and Hollywood-themed stores.
Downtown LA
Downtown LA (DTLA) is a mix of skyscrapers, historic sites, and cultural landmarks. It’s transformed in recent years with new restaurants, art spaces, and entertainment, though it’s still less touristy than other areas.
- Accommodations: (Mid-Range to High-End) - Modern hotels and boutique stays.
- Nearby Attractions: Walt Disney Concert Hall • The Broad Museum • Grand Central Market • El Pueblo Historic District
- Dining: (Diverse) - Food halls, fine dining, and global cuisines.
- Nightlife: (Vibrant) - Rooftop bars, lounges, and music venues.
- Shopping: (Good) - Fashion District and boutique shops.
Santa Monica
Santa Monica offers a beach-town vibe with a famous pier and a walkable downtown area. It’s ideal for visitors wanting sun, sand, and shopping, and provides a more relaxed pace than Hollywood or Downtown.
- Accommodations: (Mid-Range to High-End) - Beachfront hotels and boutique stays.
- Nearby Attractions: Santa Monica Pier • Third Street Promenade • Santa Monica Beach
- Dining: (Casual) - Seaside cafés, seafood spots, and farm-to-table.
- Nightlife: (Chill) - Beach bars and low-key lounges.
- Shopping: (Excellent) - Outdoor malls and local boutiques.
Venice
Venice is famous for its quirky boardwalk, canals, and artistic spirit. It’s edgier and more alternative than neighboring Santa Monica, drawing visitors for its eclectic vibe.
- Accommodations: (Budget to Mid-Range) - Boutique hotels and beach hostels.
- Nearby Attractions: Venice Beach • Venice Canals • Muscle Beach
- Dining: (Bohemian) - Vegan cafés, food trucks, and international eats.
- Nightlife: (Casual) - Dive bars and beachfront spots.
- Shopping: (Artsy) - Boutiques and local crafts.
Beverly Hills
Beverly Hills is synonymous with luxury, home to celebrity mansions and high-end shopping. It’s polished and quiet, appealing to travelers seeking an upscale experience.
- Accommodations: (High-End) - Luxury hotels and historic landmarks.
- Nearby Attractions: Rodeo Drive • Beverly Gardens Park • Greystone Mansion
- Dining: (Upscale) - Gourmet restaurants and celebrity-frequented spots.
- Nightlife: (Exclusive) - Hotel bars and elite lounges.
- Shopping: (Luxury) - Designer boutiques and high-end stores.
West Hollywood (WeHo)
West Hollywood is known for its LGBTQ+ scene, nightlife, and artsy vibe. It’s centrally located between Hollywood and Beverly Hills, making it a lively and inclusive base for tourists.
- Accommodations: (Mid-Range to High-End) - Boutique hotels and stylish stays.
- Nearby Attractions: Sunset Strip • The Comedy Store • West Hollywood Park
- Dining: (Trendy) - Modern eateries and health-focused spots.
- Nightlife: (Vibrant) - Clubs, gay bars, and live music venues.
- Shopping: (Fashionable) - Designer shops and indie boutiques.
Griffith Park & Los Feliz
This area offers green space and cultural sites, including the Griffith Observatory and hiking trails with city views. It’s quieter and appeals to nature lovers and families.
- Accommodations: (Budget to Mid-Range) - Small hotels and guesthouses.
- Nearby Attractions: Griffith Observatory • Los Angeles Zoo • Greek Theatre
- Dining: (Relaxed) - Local cafés and family-friendly spots.
- Nightlife: (Low-Key) - Cozy bars and casual venues.
- Shopping: (Local) - Bookstores and neighborhood shops.