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Ready to experience the magic of Los Angeles? Welcome to our ultimate 3-day LA itinerary!
Los Angeles is famous for its Hollywood glitz and glamor, world-class beaches, and celebrity hotspots. But since it’s a huge, sprawling city with a lot to see, it can feel impossible to fit all of the highlights into just a few days.
However, after exploring LA time and time again, we’ve crafted this itinerary to help you make the most of your trip. We’ve carefully planned the perfect 3 days to ensure that you hit all the must-see spots, savor some amazing food, and discover the city’s most exciting areas. Ready for an unforgettable adventure? Let’s go!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal favorite activity in Los Angeles was this full-day city tour. From the Hollywood Sign to Venice Beach, we saw all the iconic spots without the stress of planning. It’s ideal for first-time visitors and includes hotel pickup, plus local tips that make the city feel way more accessible.
Day 1
Breakfast – Tiago Coffee Bar + Kitchen
A good breakfast sets the tone for the day, and for that reason, we highly recommend Tiago Coffee Bar + Kitchen. Their Eggs Benedict is seriously to die for, and they’ve got great indoor and outdoor seating depending on what you’re feeling. It’s also just a 10-minute walk from the first tour’s meeting point, making it convenient as well.
Just keep in mind that the tour starts at 10 am and LA traffic can be brutal, so leave a little early so you can have a relaxed morning. Of course, if it’s easier to grab something from the hotel, that works too!
Morning – Visit the iconic Hollywood Sign
I think we can all agree that the Hollywood Sign is easily LA’s most famous attraction, so it’s worth taking the time to see it properly on this awesome sightseeing tour! We booked this tour for 10 am, which gave us enough time in the morning and still wrapped up by 1 pm.
Thanks to our guide, Justin, we avoided the crowded viewpoints that most tourists visit and found secret vantage points instead. Honestly, having these spots all to ourselves was amazing. There were no tourists photobombing our pictures, and we had first-class views of the iconic white letters standing proudly against the LA skyline. We also loved hearing about the story of the famous sign. Did you know it started as a real estate ad?
The views from the trail were spectacular, too, as we could see the city stretching below us. This stop alone made the tour worth it, but getting to see other iconic LA spots such as the Beverly Hills sign, the Walk of Fame, and Rodeo Drive made it even better. Justin even played clips from movies that were filmed in each area, so that we could fully appreciate just how many Hollywood classics were shot right where we were standing.
The entire tour was a blast, but nothing compared to that moment standing near the Hollywood Sign, taking in the magic of Tinseltown. If you want to see the LA that you’ve seen on TV and in movies, then booking this tour is a must!
Book this tour here and enjoy FREE 24-hour cancellation!
Lunch – Johnny Rockets
Johnny Rockets is a fun 1950s-themed diner that’s just around the corner from where the Hollywood Sign tour ends. It’s also right across the street from where the celebrity homes tour starts at 2 pm, so it’s a convenient spot to refuel without feeling rushed to get to the next activity.
The retro aesthetic is super unique and fun, with jukeboxes, checkered floors, and red vinyl booths that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. We were pretty hungry by that point and loved their classic cheeseburgers and crispy fries—they really hit the spot!
Afternoon – See celebrity homes and sights from an open-air bus
No trip to Los Angeles is complete without a bit of celebrity spotting, and this open-air bus tour makes it a breeze! We cruised past some of Hollywood’s most famous landmarks while also getting a peek at some amazing celebrity homes.
We booked the tour for 2 pm, and it takes off from Hollywood Boulevard, just where our morning tour ends. Convenient, right?
Our guide, Yohan, was funny and full of great Hollywood stories. As we cruised through the city, we passed iconic sights like the Walk of Fame, the Dolby Theatre, and the legendary Sunset Strip.
But the real excitement came when we entered Beverly Hills. Yohan pointed out stunning celebrity homes, from movie stars to music legends. I couldn’t believe we were driving past the actual mansions of some of the biggest names in entertainment!
Rodeo Drive was another standout, with its high-end boutiques and luxury cars lined up along the street. Yohan even shared behind-the-scenes gossip about where celebrities love to shop and dine.
What made this tour special was the open-air bus, as it gave us incredible views and made the experience feel so much more immersive. Plus, we covered so much ground without worrying about parking or traffic.
It was the perfect way to soak up the city’s glitz and glam in a quick 2-hour tour! And we’re clearly not the only ones who loved it – you can read all of the glowing reviews here.
Check availability and book this tour here!
Dinner – Sunset Strip
Your celebrity-filled afternoon tour ends around 4 pm, back on Hollywood Boulevard. This evening we are heading towards the Sunset Strip (which you drove by today). You can spend some more time wandering around Hollywood Boulevard if you’d like, but the walk to Sunset Strip is about an hour, so I’d recommend taking a quick, 12-minute Uber ride there instead.
The Sunset Strip is known for its vibrant nightlife and Hollywood history. This is where all of the best comedy shows are, as well as the Sunset Plaza Mall, if you feel like doing some shopping. You must spend some time checking out such an iconic part of LA! You’ll have some time to kill before the evening activity anyway.
Then, after a day of exploring, head to Pinches Tacos for a casual yet delicious meal. This local favorite serves up mouthwatering tacos, and it’s the perfect fuel for the night ahead! I definitely recommend trying the watermelon agua fresca.
Night – See a Comedy Show
LA is home to some legendary comedy clubs, so tonight, head to one of the following and get ready to laugh your socks off. Both are popular spots, so remember to purchase tickets ahead of time!
The Comedy Store
The Comedy Store is a classic place to enjoy comedy in LA. We caught a three-hour show here, which was well worth it. The staff was super friendly, and the comedians were hilarious. I almost busted a rib from laughing so much!
The Laugh Factory
The Laugh Factory in Hollywood promises an absolute blast of an evening! We saw four hilarious comedians here and had a super memorable evening. The crowd was lively, and the staff was super friendly. There’s a two-drink minimum here, but that’s pretty standard for LA comedy clubs, and the experience is well worth it.
Day 2
Spend the day at Universal Studios
Out of everything to do in LA, Universal Studios Hollywood is the one experience that truly delivers on the wow factor. You’re not just visiting a theme park, you’re stepping into the world of movies, where you can ride through action-packed scenes, explore Hogwarts, and even see real film sets from some of your favorite movies. We spent the entire day there and still felt like we could’ve stayed longer.
This is a full-day activity, so we recommend fueling up with a hearty breakfast beforehand. There are plenty of themed restaurants to eat at inside the park too, so no worries if you want to grab something once you’re there. You can drive, take an Uber, or use public transit, but just be prepared for the commute to take about an hour each way, thanks to classic LA traffic. We arrived right when the park opened at 9 am and didn’t leave until around 3 pm—there’s just that much to do!
We chose Express Tickets, which gave us skip-the-line access to all general rides, shows, and attractions—a total game-changer during peak season. It was all amazing, but as a Harry Potter nerd, running around Hogwarts was definitely my highlight. For Daniel, it was the Jurassic Park ride… though the Mario Kart one gave it a serious run for its money.
One last tip to make the most of your Universal day: book your tickets in advance! The price is the same as buying at the gate, but ticket prices can fluctuate, so chances are you’ll save by grabbing them early.
Don’t miss out – book your Universal Studios day trip here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Dinner – Kouraku Japanese Ramen & Grill
If you aren’t too exhausted from your day at Universal, we have a fun but relaxed night planned for you! So head back to your hotel, take a rest and refresh, then head to the Arts District/Little Tokyo for the evening.
LA’s Little Tokyo is a fun and artistic district that’s definitely worth checking out, and our favorite spot to dine here is definitely Kouraku Japanese Ramen & Grill. Whether you’re craving steaming tonkotsu ramen or classic gyoza, this place has got you covered with its yummy, authentic food. We’ve travelled all over Japan and this restaurant took us right back there!
Evening – Arts District
LA’s Arts District borders Little Tokyo, and its trendy nightlife scene makes it the perfect place to spend an evening in the City of Angels. Whether you’re in the mood for a trendy cocktail bar, a laid-back brewery, or a lively nightclub, there’s truly something for every kind of night out here. We love EightyTwo because of its retro arcade games!
We also stopped by Wolf & Crane for a nightcap and loved the vibe. Laid-back, stylish, and not overly crowded? That’s my kind of place. The cocktails were creative and well-balanced, and their Japanese whisky selection was impressive. It’s a great spot if you’re looking for a cool, low-key bar in the heart of Little Tokyo.
Related Read: Heading to Arizona next? We’ve rounded up the best things to do in Phoenix to help you plan!
Day 3
Breakfast – Coffee in Venice Beach
Venice Beach might just be my favorite part of LA, with its stunning shores, street art, and fun atmosphere. So, where better to start your morning than at one of the many coffee shops along the boardwalk? But hold off on breakfast because we’ve got a food tour coming right up, and trust me, you’ll need to save room! The tour doesn’t start until 11 am, though, so just relax and enjoy people watching as the area comes alive.
Morning – Venice Beach Food and Walking Tour
Nothing says LA like food, culture, and a good ocean breeze—and that’s why we love this Venice Beach food tour so much. It begins at 11 am and lasts until 2 pm, and it’s the perfect way to discover the highlights of the vibrant and beautiful Venice Beach area while sampling some of its best food!
Our guide, Sade, was wonderful. She was full of local knowledge, fun stories, and insider tips about Venice Beach. We had so much fun with her as we visited iconic food spots and hidden gems that we would never have found on our own.
I think my favorite dish was the crispy beef taco, although the birria quesadilla was a very close second, or maybe the Argentinian empanada. It was all just so good! Then for dessert, we were treated to churro waffle bites and a refreshing acai bowl.
Each stop on the tour was thoughtfully chosen to highlight a different side of LA’s incredible food culture, from classic Mexican street eats to trendy, health-conscious bites. Whether you’re a foodie or just love a good adventure, this tour is a must-do in LA! And we’re not the only ones who think so—check out all of the glowing reviews here.
Reserve your Venice Beach food tour here with FREE cancellation!
Afternoon – Rent a bicycle to explore the Strand
After letting your meal settle, rent a bike or use a bike share to cruise along The Strand at a relaxed pace. This costs around $15 USD per hour or $45 USD for a day rate, although prices can vary slightly between rental shops. Or, you can use a Metro Bike Share, which is usually cheaper and means you won’t have to cycle back to return your bike.
Either way, the ride from Venice Beach to Santa Monica only takes about 15 minutes, but it’s very scenic. However, you keep going if you’re up for more exploring. If you carry on for another 10 minutes or so, you’ll see the “Barbenheimer” houses that went viral during Summer 2023!
After you’re done pedaling, spend the afternoon enjoying Santa Monica. I love hanging out here and enjoying the amusement rides, fried food, and sandy beach.
Sunset – Santa Monica Pier
LA boasts some spectacular sunsets, so catch one from the Santa Monica Pier. Not only is it epic to see the sky turn vibrant shades of pink and purple as the sun sinks over the sea, but watching the pier’s attractions light up adds an extra layer of magic. Sunsets here are truly a photographer’s dream!
Dinner – King and Queen Cantina
Now, tonight for dinner, you’ve got a few choices! You can always grab something along the pier as it’s full of food trucks selling LA classics like corn dogs, tacos, and fries.
However, if you feel like a sit-down meal, head to King and Queen Cantina. It’s an absolute gem of a spot situated a 10-minute walk from the pier, and it offers a heavenly blend of Japanese and Mexican flavors. The service is top tier here, and they make killer margaritas, so treat yourself and toast to the end of an amazing three days in LA!
Related Read: If you enjoy our itineraries, don’t miss our 3-day Las Vegas itinerary for a step-by-step guide to exploring the best of Sin City!
Where to Stay in Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles is a massive city with tons of unique neighborhoods, so choosing the right place to stay can make all the difference! If you want easy access to major attractions and the activities in this itinerary, Hollywood is our top pick! So to help you find the best place to stay, I’ve rounded up my top hotel recommendations for every budget below:
Luxury – $$$
1 Hotel West Hollywood is a 5-star luxury hotel in the heart of West Hollywood. The sleek, modern rooms feature natural decor (with live plants!) and many have incredible views of the LA skyline. Guests can relax at the rooftop pool, work out at the state-of-the-art fitness center, and enjoy multiple on-site dining options.
The hotel offers a complimentary drop-off service, making it easy to explore Hollywood’s top attractions in style! Oh, and it’s on the free pickup list for the sightseeing tour on day one, which makes life super easy.
Prices vary depending on the time of year but usually start around $830 USD per night. Check prices and book this stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Best Western Plus Sunset Plaza Hotel is a fantastic mid-range stay right on LA’s iconic Sunset Strip. The spacious rooms are well-equipped with microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee makers, and guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast before heading out to explore.
The hotel also features a beautiful outdoor pool perfect for unwinding after a day in the city. Plus, with its prime location, you’ll be just steps from Sunset Boulevard’s famous restaurants, nightlife, and the comedy clubs that we mentioned earlier!
Prices usually range between $280–$400 USD per night, depending on the time of year. Book this stay on Booking.com.
Budget – $
Orange Drive Hostel is a budget-friendly stay in an unbeatable location, just steps from Hollywood Boulevard and the Walk of Fame. Set in a historic building, it offers a mix of private rooms and dorms, with shared or en-suite bathrooms. Guests can make use of the communal kitchen and enjoy the cozy outdoor patio, which is perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring LA!
Private rooms usually start at around $90 USD per night, and dorm beds are around $40 USD. You can reserve your room here on Booking.com!
For more options, see all of the hotels in Los Angeles here!
Renting a Car in the USA
The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the USA
- Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
- Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
- Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Los Angeles has so much to offer, and we hope this 3-day itinerary has made it easier to map out your trip! This is the exact route we followed on our latest visit, and it really gave us a great mix of must-see spots and a few lesser-known favorites we’ve come to really enjoy. Wishing you an incredible time soaking up everything LA has in store!
If LA is just one stop on your adventure, be sure to check out our other USA blogs here. Or take a peek at a few of our favorites below!
10 Best Things to do in Los Angeles
9 Best Things to do in Palm Springs, California