Santa Monica
Ideal for: families, beach
Beach, pier and promenade, with a relaxed feel by the Pacific.
Los Angeles
Hollywood, Pacific beaches and a huge city best explored by car.
Plan your stay in Los Angeles
Best areas to stay in Los Angeles
Hollywood
Ideal for: first visit
The Walk of Fame and studios, handy for the main sights.
Downtown
Ideal for: culture, business
Museums, concert halls and skyscrapers, linked to other areas by Metro.
Venice
Ideal for: solo, atmosphere
Canals, skatepark and a very lively seafront, next to Santa Monica.
Practical info about Los Angeles
Los Angeles is very spread out: a car is still the most practical option, but traffic is heavy. Choose your area based on what you want to see rather than crossing the city every day.
What to see in Los Angeles
- Hollywood: the Walk of Fame, the Chinese Theatre and views of the Hollywood sign;
- Griffith Observatory, for views over the city;
- Santa Monica and Venice Beach;
- the Getty Center, its collections and gardens;
- film studios (Universal, Warner Bros.);
- Malibu and the coastal road.
Getting to Los Angeles
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is south-west of the city. Reach your area by taxi, ride-hailing, shuttle or public transport (with a connection); allow extra time because of traffic.
All our tips for the country in Travel in the United States.