Things to do in Los Angeles: the must-sees and our tips

In short: Los Angeles is huge: group your visits by area. For film, Hollywood, its Walk of Fame and a studio; for the view, Griffith Observatory; for the sea, Santa Monica, Venice and Malibu; for art, the Getty Center and the Downtown museums. With kids, keep a day for Disneyland. Allow time: traffic is heavy.

Hollywood

The Walk of Fame and its stars, the Chinese Theatre and its handprints, the Dolby Theatre where the Oscars are held: Hollywood Boulevard is a must, even if it’s very touristy. For a photo of the Hollywood sign, the best viewpoints are in the hills or at Griffith Observatory.

Griffith Observatory

Perched in Griffith Park, the observatory offers a spectacular view over the city, from Downtown to the ocean, and of the Hollywood sign. Go up late in the day for the sunset and the city lights. Entry to the building is free; planetarium shows are paid.

Santa Monica and Venice

In Santa Monica, the pier and its Ferris wheel symbolically mark the end of Route 66. A path runs along the beach to Venice Beach, with its boardwalk, street performers, skatepark and peaceful canals. Rent a bike to ride along the coast.

The museums

• The Getty Center: art collections, architecture and gardens on a hilltop with city views (free entry, paid parking).
• LACMA and its rows of street lamps, now an icon.
• The Broad and the Walt Disney Concert Hall, Downtown.

The film studios

Universal Studios Hollywood combines a theme park with a studio tour. The Warner Bros. Studio Tour takes you behind the scenes and onto the sets of famous films and series. Book ahead, especially during school holidays.

Malibu and the coast

To the north-west, Malibu lines up its beaches along the Pacific Coast Highway. El Matador and Zuma beaches are among the most beautiful. It’s also the start of the famous coastal road to San Francisco.

With kids: Disneyland

In Anaheim, about an hour south-east depending on traffic, Disneyland Resort has two parks. Staying nearby saves long drives.

Getting around

• A car is the most practical, but traffic is heavy: avoid rush hours.
• The metro links Downtown, Hollywood and Santa Monica; ride-hailing apps fill the gaps.
• From the airport (LAX), taxi, ride-hailing, shuttle or public transport with a connection.

All our tips for the country: Travel in the United States.

Where to stay in Los Angeles?

Santa Monica for the beach and a first visit, Venice for atmosphere, Hollywood or West Hollywood for film sights, Downtown for museums, Anaheim for Disneyland. All the areas are covered in our guide Where to stay in Los Angeles.