5 Days Los Angeles, USA Itinerary
This 5-day Los Angeles itinerary balances iconic landmarks with local experiences, all while staying within a moderate budget. It includes explorations of Hollywood, beaches, museums, and diverse culinary scenes, ensuring a well-rounded and unforgettable trip.
Duration
5 days
Budget
$600-1000
Best Time
The best time to visit Los Angeles is generally from March to May and September to November
Activities
20
Daily Avg
$160/day
Cities
Los Angeles (3d), Cultural Exploration (2d)
Pace
Moderate
Los Angeles offers a diverse range of experiences, from Hollywood glamour and stunning beaches to vibrant cultural neighborhoods and world-class museums. The city's sunny weather and laid-back atmosphere make it an ideal destination for a memorable vacation.
Your itinerary covers 8 of 11 must-have experiences
A Panoramic Viewpoint
Day 1: Griffith Observatory
A Classic SoCal Beach
Day 2: Santa Monica Beach
A World-Class Museum
Day 3: The Getty Center
A Theme Park or Studio Tour
Day 5: Runyon Canyon Park
A Bustling Food Market
Day 3: Lunch at Grand Central Market
An Urban Hiking Trail
Day 5: Runyon Canyon Park
A Famous Street or District
Day 1: Hollywood Walk of Fame
A Trendy Dining Experience
e.g., The Ivy, Nobu Malibu
A Chic Rooftop Bar
e.g., Perch LA, Broken Shaker (Freehand LA)
A Historic LA Landmark
Day 3: Walt Disney Concert Hall (Exterior)
A Serene Garden Escape
e.g., Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens, Descanso Gardens
Los Angeles' food scene is a vibrant reflection of its diverse population, offering everything from authentic ethnic eats to innovative fusion cuisine. Expect fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and a laid-back, outdoor dining culture. From street tacos to fine dining, LA caters to every palate and budget.
Must-Try Dishes
Los Angeles tacos are a must! Try classic carne asada, al pastor (marinated pork), or fish tacos. The best tacos are often found at street food stands and small taquerias.
📍 Street food stands, taco trucks, East LA, Boyle Heights
A hefty burrito filled with carne asada, french fries, cheese, guacamole, and salsa. A truly Californian experience!
📍 Mexican restaurants, especially in San Diego (but easily found in LA)
A classic California burger joint known for its simple menu, fresh ingredients, and secret menu items (like 'Animal Style').
📍 In-N-Out Burger locations throughout Southern California
Grill your own marinated meats at the table in a Korean BBQ restaurant. A fun, interactive, and delicious experience.
📍 Koreatown
Food Neighborhoods
Known for Korean BBQ, Korean Fried Chicken, and Korean desserts
Known for Sushi, Ramen, and Japanese sweets
Known for diverse Japanese cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere
Known for authentic Mexican food, especially tacos and tamales
Los Angeles is very accommodating to dietary restrictions. Many restaurants offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Halal food is readily available in certain neighborhoods, particularly around Islamic centers. Always check menus or ask your server about ingredients and preparation methods to avoid allergens.
Tipping is customary in restaurants (15-20% of the bill). It's generally acceptable to ask for a doggy bag to take leftovers home. Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends. Casual attire is generally acceptable, but some upscale restaurants may have a dress code.
Hollywood Bowl Summer Concerts
June - SeptemberOutdoor concerts at the iconic Hollywood Bowl.
LA Film Festival
May - JuneShowcases independent and international films.
Rose Parade
JanuaryNew Year's Day parade in Pasadena, near Los Angeles.
🛣️Interesting Detours & Side Trips
- 🚶From your hotel in Hollywood, walk or take a short ride-share to Hollywood Walk of Fame.FREE
9:00 AM - Hollywood Walk of Fame
Stroll along Hollywood Boulevard and search for your favorite stars. Be prepared for crowds and street performers. Consider visiting early in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds.
Book on Klook - 🚶Walk along Hollywood Boulevard to TCL Chinese Theatre.$20
11:00 AM - TCL Chinese Theatre
See the famous handprints and footprints of celebrities. Consider taking a guided tour for more insights. Purchase tickets online in advance to save time.
Book on Klook - 🚶Walk or take a short ride-share to In-N-Out Burger on Sunset Blvd.$10
1:00 PM - Lunch at In-N-Out Burger
Experience the classic California burger chain. Try the 'Animal Style' fries for a local favorite. Expect a line, especially during peak hours.
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- 🚶Take a ride-share or bus from In-N-Out Burger to Griffith Observatory.FREE
3:00 PM - Griffith Observatory
Enjoy stunning views of the Hollywood sign and the Los Angeles skyline. Explore the exhibits inside the observatory. Parking can be challenging, so consider taking the DASH Observatory bus.
Book on Klook
Hollywood
Central location, close to many attractions, and vibrant nightlife.
📅 Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Los Angeles is generally from March to May and September to November. During these shoulder seasons, the weather is pleasant with comfortable temperatures, and the notorious crowds of summer have thinned out, leading to potentially better deals on flights and accommodations. Summer (June-August) is popular but can be hot, crowded, and more expensive, though ideal for beach lovers. Winter (December-February) is mild but can be rainy, though major events like the Rose Parade occur in January.
Los Angeles enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm, sunny days and mild nights. Rainfall is minimal during the shoulder seasons, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Shoulder seasons (March-May and September-November) offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and potentially better deals on flights and accommodations.
Major holidays like Memorial Day (late May), Labor Day (early September), and Thanksgiving (late November) can affect travel and prices.
Getting Around
Car-centric; major cities have transit
City-specific
Uber/Lyft work nationwide. Rent a car outside major cities.
Travel
$100-200 (Transportation within LA)Accommodation
$250-400 (Airbnb or budget hotel)Food
$150-250Activities
$100-150Utilize Los Angeles' many free attractions: hike to the Hollywood Sign, visit Griffith Observatory, explore Santa Monica Pier and Beach, stroll through Venice Beach, or enjoy the free admission at The Getty Center (parking extra).
Pack snacks and drinks for sightseeing. Food trucks offer delicious and often more affordable options than sit-down restaurants, especially for lunch. Look for happy hour deals at bars and restaurants.
Treat yourself to a fine dining experience in neighborhoods like Beverly Hills or West Hollywood. LA boasts world-class culinary talent, and a special meal can be a memorable highlight.
Attend a live show or concert. Catch a Broadway production at the Pantages Theatre, see a concert at the Hollywood Bowl, or watch a Lakers game at the Crypto.com Arena for an iconic LA experience.
Don't just stick to the main tourist spots; explore diverse neighborhoods like Silver Lake, Koreatown, Little Tokyo, or Culver City for unique shops, eateries, and local vibes without the tourist prices.
Avoid driving during peak rush hour if possible. Not only will you save on gas and ride-share surge pricing, but you'll also save precious time that can be spent exploring rather than stuck in traffic.
- **Embrace the Car Culture (or Ride-Share):** Los Angeles is incredibly spread out. While public transport exists, it's often inefficient for tourists covering multiple districts. Plan to use ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft) or rent a car to maximize your sightseeing, factoring in notorious traffic.
- **Understand LA's Sprawl:** Don't underestimate the size of Los Angeles. Attractions are geographically diverse. Group your activities by district (e.g., Hollywood, Santa Monica, Downtown) to minimize travel time and traffic frustration.
- **Tipping is Customary:** In the U.S., tipping is expected for service workers. Budget 15-20% for restaurant servers, 15-20% for ride-share drivers, and a few dollars per bag for hotel porters. Bartenders usually receive $1-2 per drink.
- **Sun Protection is Crucial Year-Round:** Southern California boasts abundant sunshine. Always wear sunscreen (SPF 30+), sunglasses, and a hat, even on cloudy days or in winter, to protect against UV radiation.
- **Pack Layers:** Even with warm days, evenings can cool down significantly, especially by the coast. Bring light layers, including a jacket or sweater, to adapt to temperature changes throughout the day.
- **Book Popular Attractions in Advance:** Major theme parks (Universal Studios, Disneyland), popular museum exhibitions, and sought-after tours (e.g., Warner Bros. Studio Tour) often require advance booking, especially for timed entry, and can sell out.
- **Stay Hydrated:** The dry climate, especially inland, can lead to dehydration. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it frequently. Many public places offer water fountains.
- **Factor in Travel Time:** Traffic in Los Angeles can be severe, especially during rush hour (roughly 6-10 AM and 3-7 PM on weekdays). Always add buffer time to your estimated travel durations to avoid missing reservations.
- 1**Comfortable Walking Shoes:** You'll be doing a lot of walking, whether on studio tours, exploring neighborhoods, or theme parks.
- 2**Sunscreen, Hat, and Sunglasses:** Essential for protection against the strong California sun.
- 3**Layers (light jacket/cardigan):** Days are warm, but evenings can be cool, especially near the coast.
- 4**Swimsuit:** For beaches, hotel pools, or a dip in the ocean.
- 5**Reusable Water Bottle:** Stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste in the dry climate.
- 6**Casual Chic Attire:** LA is known for its relaxed yet stylish vibe. Think jeans, fashionable tops, and comfortable dresses.
- 7**Small Backpack/Day Bag:** For carrying essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and souvenirs.
- 8**Portable Power Bank:** Crucial for keeping your phone charged for navigation and photos.
- 9**Travel Adapter (for international visitors):** Type A/B outlets, 120V standard.
- 10**Camera (or good smartphone camera):** For capturing iconic landmarks and scenic views.
Flight Tickets
Book 2-4 months in advance for best prices, especially during peak seasons.
Accommodation (Hotel/Airbnb)
Book 3-6 months in advance, particularly if traveling during summer, holidays, or major events, as popular areas fill up quickly.
Rental Car (if desired)
Book at least 1-2 months ahead to secure a good rate and vehicle availability, especially during high season.
Theme Park Tickets (e.g., Universal Studios Hollywood, Disneyland)
Purchase tickets online well in advance (1-2 months) to save time, often money, and secure specific dates/timed entry if required.
Popular Museum Timed Entry (e.g., The Getty Center, Academy Museum of Motion Pictures)
Check individual museum websites; popular ones often require free or paid timed-entry reservations, especially on weekends or for special exhibits.
Specific Tours (e.g., Warner Bros. Studio Tour, Celebrity Home Tours)
Book 3-4 weeks in advance, especially for popular times or specific dates, as they can sell out.
Travel Insurance
Arrange immediately after booking flights and accommodation to cover unforeseen cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage.
ESTA or Visa (for international visitors)
Apply for ESTA (for eligible countries under Visa Waiver Program) or a B-2 visa at least 72 hours, preferably several weeks, before travel.
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details — such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options — closer to your travel date.
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
📍 Airalo website or app
📍 T-Mobile stores, Best Buy, Target
📍 AT&T stores, Best Buy, Target
📍 GlocalMe website, Amazon
Free WiFi is widely available in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and some public areas like libraries and parks. The quality and speed can vary. Many hotels offer premium WiFi for an additional fee.
Useful Apps
Consider purchasing a portable charger to keep your devices powered throughout the day. Download offline maps and translation apps for areas with limited connectivity. Check your mobile carrier's international roaming rates before your trip. Some hotels may charge for WiFi, so inquire about the cost before connecting.
Electric Socket Guide
Socket Types
Two flat parallel pins
Two flat parallel pins + round ground
120V
60Hz
Tipping Etiquette
18–20% (before tax)
15–20%
$2–5 per bag; $2–5/night housekeeping
Tipping is expected. 18–20% is standard at restaurants.
Safety & Travel Advisories
Los Angeles is generally safe for tourists, but be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft, especially in crowded areas.
Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.
Emergency Numbers
911
911
911
911 for all emergencies
Payments
Cards preferred everywhere
Universally accepted
Common
Credit cards accepted everywhere. Apple Pay/Google Pay widely available.
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Trip Summary
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The best time to visit Los Angeles is during the shoulder seasons (March-May and September-November) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer is popular but can be hot and crowded. Winter is mild but can be rainy.
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