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You don’t need to have set foot in California to have you own ideas about Los Angeles. Hollywood has been ingraining the city on our minds for over a hundred years. D.W. Griffith shot the first movie in Hollywood back in 1910. He could never have predicted that, within ten years, this small village would grow to embody the glitz and glamor it’s now famed for.
Los Angeles was big before Hollywood, though. Settled by Spanish explorers in 1781, the city grew rapidly during the nineteenth century. That growth has never stopped. Now second only to New York in population, Los Angeles is a city which means business. It’s huge, sprawling and one of the most diverse places on earth.
The City of Angels has it all. Whether you’re looking for sun, sea and sand or serene wooded mountains, haute cuisine or street food, glitz and glamour or casual spots to unwind, you’ll find it in LA.
Our 3 day Los Angeles itinerary combines all the city’s faces to give you a taste of the second-largest city in the U.S.
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Where to Stay in Los Angeles
We’ve already mentioned that LA is massive, and choosing where to stay can often be daunting for first-time visitors. Before my first visit, I remember spending hours trawling through blogs and travel guides which left me even more confused.
LA’s districts are so diverse that, really, there’s no right or wrong answer as to where to stay. These are our go-to areas which work seamlessly with this 3 day Los Angeles itinerary.
Hollywood
The top pick for first-time visitors to Los Angeles, film buff or not, Hollywood has to be seen at least once. Hotels here aren’t cheap, but there’s everything from “budget” motels to uber-luxurious properties where you’ll be rubbing shoulders with the stars. Ideal for exploring the Walk of Fame, theaters and museums during the day and partying late into the night, staying in Hollywood will leave you no time to get bored.
For budget conscious travelers, quirky Banana Bungalow Hotel & Hostel is our top recommendation. With a choice of private rooms or shared dorms, Banana Bungalow is a curious cross between a trendy backpackers hostel, classic motel and budget hotel.
If you’re looking for a comfortable, full-service hotel without a walloping price tag, Mama Shelter Los Angeles is a good pick. It is a chain hotel, although one of only 11 across the globe, but has that independent boutique feel. The rooftop bar is the spot to unwind and enjoy views of the Hollywood Hills and Hollywood Boulevard is just a couple of minutes’ walk away.
To experience the true opulence of Hollywood, check in to The Aster on the corner of Hollywood and Vine. One of the most famous addresses in the world, The Aster offers unparalleled luxury. After a day’s exploring, settle in by the rooftop firepit with a classy cocktail and views of the Capitol Records building.
Santa Monica
The western end of Route 66, home to the original Muscle Beach and one of the most famous piers in the world, Santa Monica is LA’s seaside playground. Perfect for families and romantic getaways, staying in Santa Monica, you soon forget you’re in the city.
Like Hollywood, Santa Monica isn’t cheap, but Ocean Lodge is one of the few spots which won’t break the bank. Directly opposite the pier, set in beautiful gardens, Ocean Lodge is our favorite Santa Monica hotel. If comfort and price are high on your priorities, this is the place for you.
If luxury is more your thing, The Georgian Hotel won’t disappoint. Set in a gorgeous Georgian-era building on Ocean Avenue, it’s perfectly located for the beach. Dubbed the “First Lady of Santa Monica”, The Georgian has long been a favorites with Hollywood’s rich and famous.
Downtown
LA’s economic hub, Downtown if often overlooked by visitors. Sure, it lacks the fame of Hollywood and the charm of Santa Monica, but the transport links and excellent dining options make it ideal for this 3 day Los Angeles itinerary. Better still, fewer tourists mean Downtown has some of the best hotel prices in LA.
Attracting mainly business travelers, the majority of hotels here are big name chains. That said, there are a handful of boutique gems. Little Tokyo Hotel is the number one wallet-friendly option. Close to Union Station and some of LA’s best Asian restaurants, it’s easy to forget that notorious Skid Row is just a couple of blocks away.
A great mid-range choice, O Hotel has recently undergone a change of ownership and with it, considerable investment. Close to Downtown’s best nightlife venues, O Hotel’s biggest draw is its on-site spa offering hot stone treatments and Swedish massages.
For true luxury, Downtown Los Angeles Proper Hotel is the place to stay. Proper by name, proper by nature, expect unrivalled service, a rooftop with a view and truly unique décor. Amenities include an outdoor pool and three fantastic restaurants.
3 Day Los Angeles Itinerary
Day One
Morning: Get Settled In
However you’ve arrived to kick off your 3 day Los Angeles itinerary, head for your hotel to relax and settle in. Even if you can’t check in yet, offloading your luggage will make your first day so much easier.
Coffee is serious business in LA, so you’ll have no trouble finding a local coffee shop to unwind in. This is a great time to make any last-minute bookings. Southern California’s plentiful sunshine makes Los Angeles busy year-round, so reservations are always a good idea.
Afternoon: Downtown
To start your 3 day Los Angeles itinerary as you mean to go on, head for Grand Central Market. Trading since 1917, LA’s oldest and largest indoor market is still going strong. From fresh produce to jewellery, there’s enough to keep you browsing until closing time. For lunch, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Whether you’re craving sushi, pasta or a messy burger, Grand Central won’t disappoint. Our top pick, Villa’s Tacos, serves tacos which are so good they’ve earned themselves a place in the Michelin guide.
Having entered a food coma, the last thing you’ll want to do is walk uphill. Thankfully, you can hitch a ride on the world’s shortest funicular railway, which just happens to start right next to Grand Central. Angels Flight runs for 218 feet from South Hill Street to South Olive Street, which, coincidentally, is the next stop on this 3 day Los Angeles itinerary.
The Museum of Contemporary Art is a free exhibition displaying pieces from 1940 onwards. A 6,000 strong permanent collection is complimented by regular exhibitions as well as workshops.
Evening: Mexican Streets and French Dip
Heading north, past the iconic Walt Disney Concert Hall, home of the LA Philharmonic, take a leisurely stroll through Gloria Monica Park to reach El Pueblo. Centered on the old plaza, the focal point of the city under Spanish rule, the highlight is Olvera Street.
The most historic spot on our 3 day Los Angeles itinerary, Olvera Street is home to LA’s oldest house. Built in 1818, Avila Abode has been restored to showcase life in the 1840s. Aside from historical buildings, Olvera Street is home to a colorful Mexican street market selling ornate handicrafts, candy and, of course, tacos aplenty.
Just north of Olvera Street, head to one of LA’s most loved restaurants for dinner. A city icon since 1908, Phillippe the Original is famous as the birthplace of French dip sandwiches. Opened by French immigrant Phillippe Mathieu, his namesake restaurant has long been a favorite amongst locals and visitors. It’s easy to see why.
With stunning retro décor, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. Order at the counter, grab your sandwich and find a table. It’s always busy and loud; if you prefer a quieter environment, head into the small dining room at the back of the restaurant.
Day Two: The Glitz and Glamor of Hollywood
Morning: Walking on Stars
Kick off day two of this 3 day Los Angeles itinerary with breakfast at a classic all-American diner. Mel’s Drive-in is a Californian institution. Sure, it’s a chain, but sometimes even the most astute traveler needs to give in to being a tourist. And there’s nowhere that’s more true than in Hollywood.
For the perfect introduction to Tinseltown, head to the Hollywood Museum. Housing the most extensive collection of Hollywood memorabilia in the world, this is the ideal spot to get into the Hollywood vibe.
Walk west along Hollywood Boulevard, stopping to search for the stars of your favorite movie stars on the Walk of Fame. There are 2,800 stars, so it helps to research the location of any you want to find in advance.
Afternoon: Celebrities & Views
Continuing a day of being a proper tourist, no visit to Hollywood is complete without an open top van tour of celebrity homes. You’ll find ticket sellers on every street corner, but you’ll always get a better price if you book ahead. Our tried-and-tested recommended tour is this two hour trip provided by the best-rated tour operator in LA. Your tour will take you into neighboring Beverley Hills, whilst seeing some of Hollywood’s most iconic sites.
Back on Hollywood Boulevard, allow a little time to explore one of the many museums. Madame Tussauds is the place to go to indulge in a little more celebrity culture. For something a little different, and even more gruesome than waxworks, check out the Medieval Torture Museum.
Before the light begins to fade, head for the Hollywood Hills. On the slopes of Mount Hollywood, the Griffith Observatory provides the best view of this 3 day Los Angeles itinerary. A free shuttle bus runs through the park to the observatory.
Travel tip: Griffith Observatory is closed on Mondays; however you can still reach the car park and admire the views from outside.
Another great option is to join a guided hiking tour, during which your guide will take you off the beaten trail for views of the Hollywood sign you wouldn’t find hiking alone.
Evening: Dinner and Glamorous Nightlife
Choosing a place to eat in Hollywood is nigh on impossible. There’s something for every taste, every budget and every occasion. For a night to remember, head to The Benjamin. A timeless ode to Hollywood of yesteryear, take a seat in one of the beautifully upholstered booths and you’ll instantly feel like a 1950s movie star.
Their menu – short but well-executed – offers an upscale take on American favorites. Their Wagyu steak is the star of the show, served with a rich cognac sauce, whilst seafood lovers will rejoice at the whole Branzino.
As darkness falls, Hollywood doesn’t sleep. To partake of a 3 day Los Angeles itinerary and skip Tinseltown’s eclectic nightlife just wouldn’t be right. A great way to get a taste of it is to tag along on a tour of Hollywood’s famous speakeasys. The entertainment industry and drinking go hand in hand, so it’s no surprise prohibition didn’t put a stop to Hollywood’s bar scene.
Day Three: A Day at the Beach
Morning: Santa Monica
One of LA’s most affluent areas, Santa Monica packs all the fun of the seaside. Start the final day of your 3 day Los Angeles itinerary with breakfast at Sweet Maple. This much-loved pancake house serves up everything from their famous sweet pancakes to eggs, skillets and bacon.
Next up, head to the original Muscle Beach. In 1934, exercise equipment was first installed on the beach with city officials arranging gymnastic displays. Hollywood’s most famous bodybuilders soon jumped on the bandwagon and made use of the equipment themselves, gaining quite a cult following and earning the beach its name.
At the western end of Muscle Beach, you’ll find Santa Monica Pier, the city’s most famous attraction. The starting, and finishing point of historic Route 66, the pier is one of the most iconic spots on this 3 day Los Angeles itinerary.
If you feel like getting active, check out this e-Bike beach tour. The two-hour guided ride will take you from Santa Monica to Marina del Rey, passing Santa Monica’s most famous sights.
Afternoon: The Farmers Market and Venice Beach
For lunch, head inland to the Farmers Market at 3rd & Fairfax. Open daily, the market features almost 30 restaurants along with an array of stalls and shops. The delicious smells make it tough to choose, but the open seating arrangement means you can mix and match from as many different outlets as you like. If you fancy a sushi starter followed by Brazilian cuts and Italian gelato, you can have it here.
This afternoon, head for world-renowned Venice Beach. Dubbed the home of Los Angeles’s most eccentric, Venice Beach is a wonderful melting pot of cultures. Spend what’s left of the day ambling along the boardwalk. Make a stop at the Art Walls, an eclectic collection of murals dotted along the beachfront.
Take a stroll through Venice Canal Historic District, a series of artificial canals built in 1905 to mimic those in Venice, Italy. Sadly, many of the canals were filled in during the 1940s to make way for roads, but a few survive and are well worth a look.
The Final Evening
When the sun starts to disappear beyond the horizon, get the best view from Venice Pier. In total contrast to Santa Monica, Venice’s pier isn’t commercialized at all and is a favorite spot for fishing.
For a fitting end to this 3 day Los Angeles itinerary, finish the day with a canal-side dinner at Siamese Garden. This cozy alfresco Thai spot serves delicious classics with a strong vegetarian menu and fresh exotic juices. If you need one final view of the beach, the High Rooftop Lounge at Hotel Erwin has the best in town, along with divine handcrafted cocktails.
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