Los Angeles, California-7-day-itinerary

August 4, 2024

Day 1: Arrival and Hollywood Glam

Morning: Arrive at LAX airport and take a shuttle or Uber to your hotel in the Hollywood area.
10:00 AM: Visit the iconic Walk of Fame on Hollywood Boulevard, where you’ll find the handprints and signatures of famous celebrities.
12:00 PM: Grab lunch at The Original Pantry Cafe, a 24/7 diner that’s been a LA institution since 1924.
2:00 PM: Take a stroll along the Hollywood Bowl, an outdoor amphitheater that hosts concerts and events throughout the year.
6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at The Palm in West Hollywood, known for its upscale Italian cuisine and celebrity clientele.
8:00 PM: Catch a show or concert at the legendary Dolby Theatre, home of the Academy Awards.

Day 2: Beach Day and Santa Monica Pier

9:00 AM: Spend the morning lounging on Santa Monica State Beach, where you can soak up the sun, play volleyball, or take a dip in the Pacific.
12:00 PM: Head to the historic Santa Monica Pier, which features an amusement park, arcade games, and stunning ocean views.
2:00 PM: Grab lunch at The Crab Daddy, a seafood restaurant with great pier-side seating.
4:00 PM: Take a walk along the Third Street Promenade, a pedestrian-friendly shopping street lined with boutiques, art galleries, and street performers.
7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at The Strand House in Manhattan Beach, known for its upscale seafood and beachy vibe.

Day 3: Arts and Culture

10:00 AM: Visit the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), one of the largest art museums in the country.
12:00 PM: Grab lunch at the museum’s cafe or head to the nearby Fairfax Village, a lively neighborhood with international cuisine and shops.
2:00 PM: Explore the Getty Center, which features an extensive collection of pre-20th-century European paintings, sculpture, and decorative arts.
5:00 PM: Take a stroll through the beautiful Barnsdall Park, a 12-acre park with gardens, walking paths, and stunning city views.
8:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Spago Beverly Hills, Wolfgang Puck’s upscale restaurant with a focus on seasonal California cuisine.

Day 4: Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive

9:00 AM: Visit the iconic Rodeo Drive, where you can shop for luxury brands, designer boutiques, and high-end jewelry.
11:00 AM: Take a stroll along Beverly Drive, which features upscale shopping, dining, and people-watching opportunities.
12:30 PM: Grab lunch at The Ivy, a popular restaurant with outdoor seating and a relaxed atmosphere.
2:00 PM: Visit the Beverly Hills Hotel, an iconic hotel that’s been a LA institution since 1912.
5:00 PM: Enjoy cocktails at the hotel’s famous Porch Lounge, which features stunning views of the city.

Day 5: Universal Studios Hollywood

9:00 AM: Spend the day exploring Universal Studios Hollywood, where you can experience thrilling rides, shows, and behind-the-scenes tours.
12:00 PM: Grab lunch at one of the park’s many restaurants or food stands.
2:00 PM: Visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, a immersive theme area that features shops, dining, and attractions based on J.K. Rowling’s beloved books and movies.
5:00 PM: Catch a ride on the Studio Tour, which takes you behind the scenes of famous movie sets and experiences.
8:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at The Three Broomsticks, a charming restaurant with British-inspired cuisine.

Day 6: Downtown LA and Little Tokyo

9:00 AM: Visit the California Science Center, where you can explore interactive exhibits, a space shuttle, and an IMAX theater.
11:30 AM: Grab lunch at The Original Farmers Market, a historic marketplace with international cuisine and shopping opportunities.
1:00 PM: Explore Little Tokyo, a vibrant neighborhood with Japanese culture, shops, and restaurants.
3:00 PM: Visit the Japanese American National Museum, which tells the story of Japanese Americans through exhibits and artifacts.
5:30 PM: Enjoy dinner at Daikokuya, a popular ramen restaurant with a lively atmosphere.

Day 7: Beach Day in Venice

9:00 AM: Spend the morning lounging on Venice State Beach, where you can soak up the sun, play volleyball, or take a dip in the Pacific.
12:00 PM: Grab lunch at one of the beachside restaurants or food stands.
2:00 PM: Take a stroll along the Venice Boardwalk, a pedestrian-friendly promenade lined with shops, street performers, and stunning ocean views.
4:00 PM: Visit the Abbot Kinney Boulevard, a trendy shopping street with boutique stores, art galleries, and upscale restaurants.

Things to Know

LA traffic is notoriously bad, so be prepared for delays on the roads.
Many attractions and restaurants have long wait times, especially during peak season.
Don’t forget sunscreen and comfortable shoes – you’ll be doing a lot of walking!
Be mindful of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.

Transportation

The city has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses, trains, and bike-share programs.
You can also use ride-hailing services like Uber or Lyft to get around.
Consider purchasing a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour ticket for a convenient way to see the sights.

Tips

Take breaks and rest your feet – LA is a big city, and you’ll be on the go all day!
Don’t be afraid to try new foods or drinks – LA has a diverse culinary scene.
Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular attractions – but don’t let that deter you from experiencing the best of LA!

Accommodations

Consider staying in the Hollywood area, which is central to many attractions and restaurants.
You can also opt for a hotel in Beverly Hills or Santa Monica for a more upscale experience.

Budget Breakdown

Total: $2,000-4,000 for a 7-day trip to LA

Note: Prices are estimates and can vary depending on your specific travel plans and preferences.