Los Angeles in 3 Day Itinerary: Your Ultimate Guide
Los Angeles is a sprawling, sun-drenched paradise of beaches, glitz, and endless possibilities. Whether you’re dreaming of coastal vibes, iconic landmarks, or a taste of Hollywood’s glamour, this ultimate 3-day itinerary in Los Angeles has you covered.
Think of this guide as your friendly companion to navigating LA like a pro—without the overwhelm. I recently spent three amazing days in LA, and let me tell you, every corner of this city has a story to tell. Let’s dive in!
**Please note that this blog post uses affiliate links meaning that if you make a purchase via my affiliate link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.
How to Get to Los Angeles
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the primary gateway to the city, welcoming millions of visitors annually. Depending on where you’re flying from, you might also consider Burbank (Hollywood Burbank Airport) or Long Beach Airport for a more relaxed arrival.
Tips for a Smooth Arrival:
- LAX: Known for its hustle, plan for longer wait times and book a shuttle, rideshare, or rental car in advance.
- Burbank Airport: Smaller and easier to navigate, ideal if you’re staying in Hollywood or the San Fernando Valley.
- Public Transport: The FlyAway Bus is an affordable way to reach various parts of LA from LAX, including Union Station and Van Nuys.
On my last trip, I flew into LAX and immediately felt the city’s vibrant energy. A tip: grab a coffee at one of the airport’s local kiosks before heading out—you’ll need the caffeine for the adventures ahead. And if you’re renting a car, the airport rental options are plentiful, but I suggest booking ahead to skip the lines.
Getting Around Los Angeles
LA’s vast size means you’ll need a game plan for transportation. Here are your best options:
- Rental Car: The most flexible way to explore LA. On my first day, I rented a car, which was perfect for zipping around the city. Parking can be pricey in some areas, so budget accordingly.
- Metro System: Affordable and reliable for certain routes. Day passes are just $5. I used the Metro once to avoid rush-hour traffic, and it was surprisingly convenient, but not everywhere.
- Ride-Share Apps: Uber and Lyft are lifesavers for short trips, are also widely available and often cheaper than taxis.
- Biking: Great for coastal areas like Santa Monica and Venice. I rented a bike in Santa Monica and felt like a local cruising along the beach.
Travel Hack: Use Waze or Google Maps to navigate traffic—trust me, LA traffic is no joke. Timing your drives can save hours, especially if you’re heading to popular spots.
Best Areas to Stay in Los Angeles
Choosing where to stay in LA can make or break your trip. Here are a few fantastic options based on your vibe:
Santa Monica
- Vibe: Coastal, laid-back, family-friendly.
- Highlights: Santa Monica Pier, beachside hotels, and the bustling Third Street Promenade.
- Best For: Beach lovers and those seeking a relaxed vibe.
- Where to Stay: Shore Hotel (1515 Ocean Ave, $350+/night), eco-friendly with ocean views.
Venice Beach
- Vibe: Artsy, bohemian, and vibrant.
- Highlights: Venice Boardwalk, Muscle Beach, and the tranquil Venice Canals.
- Best For: Creative types and free spirits.
- Where to Stay: The Kinney Venice Beach (737 W Washington Blvd, $200+/night).
Hollywood
- Vibe: Glamorous and buzzing with tourists.
- Highlights: Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre, and nightlife.
- Best For: First-time visitors and those chasing the Hollywood dream.
- Where to Stay: Dream Hollywood (6417 Selma Ave, $300+/night).
Downtown LA
- Vibe: Urban, historic, and trendy.
- Highlights: The Broad Museum, Arts District, and rooftop bars.
- Best For: Foodies, art lovers, and city explorers.
- Where to Stay: The Standard, Downtown LA (550 S Flower St, $250+/night).
Beverly Hills
- Where to Stay: The Beverly Hills Hotel (9641 Sunset Blvd, $500+/night)
- Vibe: Luxe, polished, and upscale.
- Highlights: Rodeo Drive, Beverly Gardens Park, and fine dining.
- Best For: Luxury seekers and shoppers.
Must-Know Travel Hacks for LA
- Beat the Traffic: Plan to drive outside peak hours (7-10 AM and 3-7 PM).
- Stay Hydrated: Always carry water; LA’s heat can sneak up on you.
- Pack Layers: Evenings can get chilly, even in summer.
- Parking Apps: Apps like SpotHero can save you time and money.
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen is non-negotiable, especially on beach days.
On my trip, these hacks saved me from more than one sticky situation—especially the parking apps. Trust me, they’re a game-changer.
Los Angeles in 3 Day Itinerary: Your Ultimate Guide
Day 1: Coastal Bliss in Santa Monica, Venice, and Malibu
Kick off your LA adventure with the quintessential beach experience. Start in Santa Monica, where the iconic pier and Pacific Park welcome you. I grabbed breakfast at Blue Daisy (609 Broadway, $15-$20 per person), known for its crepes and fresh coffee. The sunny outdoor seating was the perfect place to plan my day. Other great options are Sugar palm or Espresso Cielo.
Stroll along the beach and rent a bike to cruise the Marvin Braude Bike Trail to Venice Beach. Take your time exploring the vibrant Venice Boardwalk, where street performers and quirky shops abound.
Don’t miss the Venice Canals for a quieter, picturesque vibe. I spent an hour wandering here, snapping photos that felt straight out of a European postcard.
Lunch calls for tacos at Gjusta (320 Sunset Ave, $15-$25 per person). It’s a local favorite with mouthwatering deli-style options.
In the afternoon, drive up the Pacific Coast Highway to Malibu. Stop at El Matador State Beach for stunning views and Instagram-worthy rock formations. I spent a blissful hour here, just listening to the waves crash. End the day with dinner at Geoffrey’s Malibu (27400 Pacific Coast Hwy, $50-$70 per person), where oceanfront dining meets spectacular sunsets.
Day 2: Glitz and Glam in Beverly Hills, Hollywood, and West Hollywood
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Griddle Cafe (7916 Sunset Blvd, $15-$20 per person), famous for its oversized pancakes. I ordered the “Red Velvet” pancake, and let’s just say, it could have fed a small family.
Head to Beverly Hills for a stroll along Rodeo Drive. Even if you’re not shopping, window shopping here is a luxury experience. Swing by Beverly Gardens Park for a photo with the iconic Beverly Hills sign. I met a friendly local who gave me tips on hidden cafes nearby, like Alfred or Avva.
Next, it’s time to explore Hollywood. Visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame, snap a pic of the TCL Chinese Theatre, and hike up to Griffith Observatory for panoramic views of the city and the Hollywood sign. On the way up, I stopped at a food truck for some of the best street tacos I’ve ever had.
For lunch, try Gracias Madre in West Hollywood (8905 Melrose Ave, $20-$30 per person). This vegan Mexican spot is as delicious as it is trendy.
Spend the afternoon exploring Melrose Avenue for boutique shopping and street art. Cap the day with dinner at Catch LA (8715 Melrose Ave, $40-$60 per person), known for its rooftop ambiance and seafood. The sushi rolls here were unforgettable.
Day 3: Downtown LA and Warner Bros. Studio
Fuel up with breakfast at Eggslut in Grand Central Market (317 S Broadway, $10-$15 per person). The “Slut” (a coddled egg on pureed potatoes) is a must-try.
Then, dive into the vibrant heart of Downtown LA. Visit The Broad Museum (free entry, but reserve in advance), and take a stroll through the nearby Arts District. I stumbled upon a hidden mural alley that felt like a secret treasure.
Lunch at Bavel (500 Mateo St, $25-$35 per person) is a must. Their Mediterranean dishes are unforgettable. Another great options are Urth Caffe and Girl& the Goat LA.
In the afternoon, make your way to Warner Bros. Studio in Burbank for a tour of the backlots where movie magic happens. Tours start at $69 per person and last about three hours. I geeked out seeing the set of Central Perk from Friends.
Wrap up your LA adventure with dinner at Perch (448 S Hill St, $40-$60 per person), a rooftop bistro with stunning city views. Watching the city lights sparkle was the perfect way to say goodbye to LA.
Visiting California? Read other articles
Roadtrip Adventure in Southern California
Neighbourhood Descriptions
In this Los Angeles 3 Day Itinerary you will discover some of the best areas in the city. Every neighbourhood has to offer something unique, so this is how I would describe some of them:
Santa Monica: A laid-back beach town vibe with a mix of family-friendly attractions and upscale shopping. Perfect for soaking in iconic California coastal culture.
Venice: Quirky and artistic, this neighborhood is known for its boardwalk, street art, and offbeat charm. The Venice Canals offer a surprising touch of tranquility.
Malibu: Luxury meets natural beauty. Think sprawling beaches, celebrity homes, and stunning ocean views.
Beverly Hills: Synonymous with glitz and glamour. Rodeo Drive and the luxurious estates make it an upscale haven.
Hollywood: The entertainment capital, full of tourist attractions like the Walk of Fame and iconic views of the Hollywood Sign.
West Hollywood: Trendy, LGBTQ+ friendly, and home to chic boutiques, rooftop bars, and vibrant nightlife.
Downtown LA: A cultural melting pot with historic landmarks, modern museums, and a buzzing food scene.
Burbank: The heart of the entertainment industry, home to major studios like Warner Bros.
Los Angeles 3 Day Itinerary: Packing List
- Comfortable Shoes: Essential for long walks through city streets and trails.
- Sunscreen: A must for year-round sun exposure.
- Camera/Phone: For snapping Instagram-worthy spots like the Venice Canals or Griffith Observatory.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated without creating waste.
- Layers: A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings, even in summer.
- Backpack: To carry snacks, water, and essentials during your day trips.
Final Thoughts
Three days might not be enough to see all of LA, but this itinerary ensures you hit the highlights while savoring every moment. With this ultimate 3-day itinerary, you’re ready to unlock the best of Los Angeles, experiencing its iconic landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, and hidden gems. Share your adventure and let me know if you discover even more to love about the City of Angels!
