How to spend 5 Days in Los Angeles: The Best Itinerary + Where to Stay

You’re planning to spend 5 days in Los Angeles and you’re looking for the best things to do?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared for you this 5-day itinerary in Los Angeles.

During your trip, you will discover all must-see attractions of the city such as the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Universal Studios and Santa Monica pier.

In addition to the best places to visit and activities for each stage of your itinerary, I will also give you all my best tips and accommodation suggestions depending on your budget.

So, what are the best places to visit in Los Angeles in 5 days? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

How to save time and money at Los Angeles tourist attractions

With more than 50 million visitors every year, Los Angeles is simply one of the most visited city in the world. 

And just like you, they all want to discover the amazing attractions and activities the city has to offer. 

Unfortunately some of them, such as Universal Studios Hollywood, are extremely popular and can be as crowded as the Colosseum in Rome or the Eiffel Tower in Paris!

But don’t worry: I have 2 solutions that will allow you to save time (and money!) during your 5-day trip to Los Angeles.

1. The Los Angeles All inclusive Pass

Your first option to save money is to buy the Los Angeles All-inclusive pass by Go City.

The pass is available for different duration (1, 2, 3 or 5 days for example) and give access to more than 40 tourist attractions.

Here are some of the most popular activities offered in the Los Angeles pass:

• Universal Studios Hollywood (only if you get a 3 or more days pass)
• Hollywood Sign tour
• Ticket for the Hop on Hop off bus
• Bus tour in Beverly Hills
• Warner Bros Studio Tour
• Aquarium of the Pacific
• Grammy Museum
• Battleship IOWA Museum
• Madame Tussauds
• Whale watching tour at Newport Beach

To get your Los Angeles Explorer Pass, it’s very simple: you just have to click on the green button located at the end of this section and select your duration.

Once you have ordered it, you will receive a confirmation email with the pass in PDF format. You can print it or download it on your phone so you will be able present it at the entrance of each attraction.

In addition, the email also containes a guide with useful information to organize your visits, such as opening hours and directions.

You need to book your Los Angeles All inclusive pass by clicking on the green button below:

2. Buying online tickets for Los Angeles tourist attractions

If you don’t want to buy the Los Angeles All inclusive pass, you have a second option.

During your 5-day Los Angeles itinerary, you can also buy tickets online for each place you want to visit separately.

Actually, you can buy priority tickets online for all of Los Angeles best attractions, guided tours and activities!

If you book your tickets and activities through the links I give you in this guide, you will avoid a lot of unnecessary waiting and save money.

Here is the list of the best online tickets for this 5-day itinerary in Los Angeles:

To view the prices and to book, just click on the orange links below (you will also find them throughout the article):

5 Days in Los Angeles: Must-See Attractions:

• Guided tour of celebrities homes in Beverly Hills
• Get your own Star at Hollywood Walk of Fame
• Guided walk to the Hollywood Sign + Pictures
• Full-day guided tour of LA
• Priority ticket for Universal Studios Hollywood (very important!)
• Battleship Uss Iowa Museum
• Aquarium of the Pacific
• Whale watching cruise
• Helicopter tour
• Warner Bros Studios
• Paramount Pictures Studio
• Petersen Automotive Museum
• La Brea Tar Pits and Museum
• Natural history museum of Los Angeles
• Museum of Contemporary of Art
• The Broad
• Dodger Stadium
• Bus Hop-On Hop-Off
• Half-day guided bus tour + photo stops
• Full-day guided bus tour of L.A
• Gastronomic guided tour with food tasting
• Guided tour of the Dolby Theatre
• Ticket for Madame Tussauds Hollywood
• Ticket for the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
• One-hour or 2-hour horse ride in Griffith Park 
• Surf lesson at Venice Beach or Santa Monica
• Guided kayak or paddle tour of Marina del Rey
• Cruise in L.A marina with aperitif

One Last Tip for a Perfect 5-Day Stay in Los Angeles

If you already know your travel dates (or as soon as you will have them!), you should really book your accommodation.

As Los Angeles is one of the most touristic cities in the world, the hotels offering the best value for money are often fully booked months in advance.

As a seasoned traveler, I can assure you that it’s always by planning as far in advance as possible that I’ve found the best hotels or apartments deals.

You agree that it would be a shame to somewhat ruin your stay in Los Angeles by ending up in a not-so-great hotel that costed you a fortune, right? 😅

So your best bet is to take 5 minutes now to have a look at traveler’s favorite hotels in Los Angeles.

And if you like one of the hotels you find, book it!

It’s fast, it’s easy and most accommodation offer free cancellation. That’s the best way to protect yourself from the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the best hotels deals in Los Angeles, simply click on the green button below:

After securing your dream stay, it’s time to continue reading this guide!

5 days in Los Angeles: the best itinerary

Let’s now start your 5-day itinerary in Los Angeles.

For each day, I will give you all the details you need to plan your visits + a map that will allow you to visualize the itinerary a bit better.

I’m assuming you will be staying in Los Angeles for 5 full days, and that you will be using the Los Angeles All inclusive pass or skip the line tickets.

It’s the best way to save time during your 5-day stay!

If, after reading this article, you still have questions (or need help organizing your holiday), don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section at the very end of this article.

So, what are the best things to do in Los Angeles in 5 days?

Day 1 – What to see in Los Angeles

Day 1 visits:

A. Beverly Hills / Rodeo Drive
B. Sunset Boulevard / Sunset Strip
C. Hollywood Walk of Fame
D. Hollywood Sign
E. Griffith Observatory

A. Beverly Hills/Rodeo Drive

Kickstart your 5-day Los Angeles itinerary in the opulent neighborhood of Beverly Hills.

This area, synonymous with luxury, is where you can stroll along Rodeo Drive, a world-renowned shopping street.

As you walk down Rodeo Drive, you’ll be surrounded by high-end boutiques and designer stores.

It’s also on Rodeo Drive that you can find the Beverly Wilshire Hotel, famous for being a filming location of the classic romantic comedy “Pretty Woman”, starring  Richard Gere and Julia Roberts.

When visiting Beverly Hills, you should also take a leisurely walk around the residential areas too. You’ll be amazed by the stunning mansions and beautifully manicured gardens.

And don’t forget to take a photo with the iconic Beverly Hills sign at Beverly Gardens Park!

B. Sunset Boulevard / Sunset Strip

Next, head to Sunset Boulevard, particularly the most famous part: Sunset Strip.

This stretch is known for its nightlife, historic music venues, and bustling billboards. As you drive or walk along the Strip, you’ll feel the pulse of Los Angeles’ entertainment scene.

Pay a visit to iconic venues like The Roxy Theatre or Whisky a Go Go, where legends of rock and roll once performed. Even during the day, the energy of Sunset Strip is palpable.

You can also explore the unique shops, chic boutiques and cafes dotted along the Strip. Each spot has its own character and story, adding to the allure of this legendary road.

Also take your time and enjoy the various street performances and art displays.

Besides the music scene, Sunset Strip offers beautiful views of Los Angeles, making it a perfect spot for photography.

C. Hollywood Walk of Fame

During your 5-day trip to Los Angeles, you will for sure want to explore the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Stretching along Hollywood Boulevard, this famous sidewalk celebrates the stars of the entertainment industry.

As you walk along, keep an eye out for the stars of your favorite actors, musicians, directors, and more.

You can also see celebrities hand prints and signatures embedded in concrete at the TCL Chinese Theatre, where they have left their mark over the decades.

D. Hollywood Sign

Your first day in Los Angeles should include a visit to the world-famous Hollywood Sign.

This iconic symbol of Los Angeles’ entertainment industry is not only a must-see but also a fantastic photo opportunity.

You can view the sign from various points in the city like Lake Hollywood Park or the Hollywood and Highland Center, but for a closer look, I recommend hiking up the trails in Griffith Park.

You can do it yourself or take the 90-minute tour to the Hollywood sign that is included with your Los Angeles Explorer Pass.

If you don’t have the city pass, you also have the option to book a guided hike.

Your guide will tell you interesting facts and anecdotes about L.A and will take you to the best viewpoints for superb photos.

Click here to book your guided hike and get more information!

E. Griffith Observatory

After seeing the Hollywood Sign, make your way to the Griffith Observatory.

This iconic landmark offers one of the best views of Los Angeles.

The observatory’s terraces provide panoramic views of the city and are also one of the best viewpoint to see the Hollywood Sign. It’s super impressive, especially at sunset when the city lights start to twinkle.

Inside the observatory, you’ll find exhibits, telescopes and a planetarium. Perfect if you’re traveling with kids!

If possible, you should try to visit during on weekday evenings to avoid crowds.

Day 2 in Los Angeles: Universal Studios Hollywood

Your second day of your 5-day stay in Los Angeles is all about fun at Universal Studios Hollywood.

This theme park offers a blend of thrilling rides, live shows, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of movie making.

Each area of the park is themed around iconic movies and TV shows, providing an immersive experience for visitors of all ages.

One of the highlights is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Here, you can stroll through the streets of Hogsmeade, taste Butterbeer, and experience the thrilling ‘Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey’ ride. My favorite part was exploring the intricately detailed shops and seeing Hogwarts Castle up close – it’s like stepping into the movie!

Another must-visit is Springfield, the hometown of The Simpsons. Enjoy a Krusty Burger, take a ride on ‘The Simpsons Ride,’ and immerse yourself in the colorful and quirky world of this beloved TV family.

Of course, you shouldn’t miss the newest addition to the park, Super Nintendo World.

This area brings the world of Super Mario to life with interactive attractions, state-of-the-art rides, and vibrant scenery.

Don’t forget to check out the famous Studio Tour. It’s a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at how movies and TV shows are made.

Day 3: The best attractions in Los Angeles

Day 3 visits:

A. Helicopter tour
B. The Getty Center
C. Santa Monica Pier
D. Venice Beach

A. Helicopter Tour Above LA

Start your third day in Los Angeles with an exhilarating helicopter tour over the city.

This is a unique way to experience L.A’s vast landscape from a bird’s-eye view. Seeing Los Angeles from above offers a whole new perspective on the city’s iconic landmarks!

There are various tour options available, ranging from shorter city highlights to longer coastal flights.

My favorite part was flying over the Hollywood Sign and downtown LA – the views are truly breathtaking and offer incredible photo opportunities.

It’s an unforgettable adventure to do on your 5-day Los Angeles trip!

Book your helicopter tour in advance  by clicking on the button below:

If you prefer doing this activity at the end of the day, you can alternatively opt for a night helicopter flight by clicking here!

B. The Getty Center

After your helicopter tour, visit The Getty Center.

This museum offers an impressive collection of artworks, spanning from medieval times to the present.

Highlights include the museum’s European paintings, contemporary photography and illuminated manuscripts.

But when you visit the Getty Center, it’s not just for its works of art, it’s also to enjoy the breathtaking views it offers of Los Angeles and its beautifully manicured gardens.

I really enjoyed walking among the outdoor sculptures and taking in the panoramic view of the city. For me, it’s one of the best museums to include in your 5-day visit to Los Angeles.

Admission to the Getty Center is free, but you need to book a time slot by clicking here.

C. Santa Monica Pier

Let’s continue your 3rd day in Los Angeles by heading to Santa Monica Pier.

This historic pier offers a mix of entertainment, dining, and shopping experiences.

With its vibrant atmosphere and scenic ocean views, it’s a place that perfectly captures the essence of Southern California’s beach lifestyle!

At the pier, you can enjoy classic amusement park activities at Pacific Park, including a solar-powered Ferris wheel that provides stunning views of the coastline. And if you’re spending 5 days in Los Angeles with your family, your kids will for sure love it!

The pier is also a great spot for watching street performers, and simply soaking up the sun.

Don’t miss the chance to take a stroll along the beach, where you can dip your toes in the Pacific Ocean.

D. Venice Beach and Venice Canals

Next, make your way to Venice Beach, known for its bohemian spirit and lively boardwalk.

This bustling area is a hub of activity, where you’ll find street performers, vendors, and muscle beach gym enthusiasts. It’s a place where L.A’s diverse cultures and eclectic vibes come together.

In Venice Beach, you shouldn’t miss the famous skatepark – it’s a great spot to watch local skaters show off their skills.

You will also love exploring the shops and local eateries along the boardwalk, each with its own character and charm.

You can also go to the Venice Canals, located a short walk from the beach. It’s a really quiet place here, especially compared to the bustling boardwalk!

These canals, with their charming walkways and small bridges, are perfect for a leisurely stroll. It’s like stepping into a little slice of Venice, Italy, right in Los Angeles.

This is a place you shouldn’t miss during your 5-day trip to Los Angeles.

Day 4 – More places to visit in Los Angeles

Day 4 visits:

A. Warner Bros or Paramount Pictures Studio
B. The original Farmers market
C. The Grove
D. Museums
E. The Comedy Store or the Hollywood Bowl

A. Warner Bros Studios or Paramount Pictures Studio

On your 4th day in Los Angeles, you will dive into the world of film and television by visiting either Warner Bros Studios or Paramount Pictures Studio.

These studio tours offer an exclusive look behind the scenes of some of your favorite movies and TV shows.

At Warner Bros Studios, you can explore outdoor sets and soundstages used in iconic productions. You can see the set of ‘Friends’ and sit on the famous Central Perk couch.

When visiting the studios, book your tour in advance as they can fill up quickly. It’s included in the Los Angeles Explorer Pass.

If you don’t have the pass, you need to book your Warner Bros Studios tour here:

Alternatively, you can opt for a visit to Paramount Pictures Studios:

These Studios offers a glimpse into the history of filmmaking. You can walk through the Paramount lot, see where movie legends worked, and learn about the studio’s illustrious history. The tour also includes a look at their extensive prop warehouse.

You can choose between different tour options, from a general studio tour to a VIP experience. You need to book it in advance by clicking here!

B. The Original Farmers Market

After your studio tour, head to The Original Farmers Market for a taste of L.A’s local flavors.

This historic market, located at the corner of Third and Fairfax, has been a favorite spot for both locals and tourists since 1934.

The market is a culinary haven with over 100 vendors offering a diverse array of food, from fresh produce to gourmet groceries, and delicious dishes.

I really loved sampling different cuisines – you can find everything from authentic Mexican tacos to fresh sushi.

It’s really the perfect place to grab your lunch!

C. The Grove

Following your visit to The Original Farmers Market, step into The Grove, an open-air shopping and entertainment complex right next door.

This charming area combines the best of L.A’s shopping, dining, and entertainment.

With its dancing fountains and numerous shops, it’s a great place to spend a part of the afternoon.

Whether you’re looking for the latest fashion, a great book, or just a cup of coffee, The Grove has it all. Plus, it’s a great place for celebrity spotting if that’s your thing!

D. Visit a museum in Los Angeles

For the rest of the afternoon, choose one or 2 of the following museums. They are all located next to each other.

You can visit the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), the largest art museum in the western United States. LACMA’s collection encompasses art from ancient times to the modern era, making it a must-visit for art lovers.

The museum also includes diverse range of art, like European paintings, Asian art, and Islamic art.

The Urban Light installation at the entrance, consisting of restored street lamps, is not only iconic but also a popular photo spot.

For car enthusiasts, the Petersen Automotive Museum is a treasure trove.

This museum showcases a vast collection of cars and motorcycles, from classic models to futuristic concept vehicles.

The museum’s architecture is a work of art in itself, with its striking exterior design. Inside, the exhibits are beautifully curated, highlighting the history, industry, and artistry of automotive design.

Tickets to visit the Los Angeles Automobile Museum need to be purchased here:

Lastly, explore the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum, one of the world’s most famous fossil site.

This unique museum offers a look into the prehistoric world, with fossils of mammoths, saber-toothed cats, and dire wolves that were trapped in the tar pits over 10,000 years ago.

I really loved seeing the tar pits themselves, where excavation work is still ongoing. It’s fascinating to watch paleontologists at work, uncovering the secrets of a bygone era right in the heart of L.A.

La Brea’s entrance is included with the Los Angeles Explorer Pass. But if you don’t have it, you can still book your tickets by clicking here.

E. Evening at the Comedy Store or the Hollywood Bowl

After a day filled with cultural explorations and shopping, spend your evening enjoying some of Los Angeles’ best entertainment.

Choose between a night of laughter at The Comedy Store or a concert at The Hollywood Bowl.

If you’re in the mood for some laughs, The Comedy Store on Sunset Strip is the place to be.

This legendary comedy club has been a launching pad for some of the biggest names in comedy. You have the chance to see both up-and-coming comedians and established stars in an intimate setting.

The club offers various shows throughout the night, so you can pick the one that fits your schedule best.

Alternatively, for a more musical evening, head to The Hollywood Bowl, one of the most famous outdoor music venues in the world.

Nestled in the Hollywood Hills, this iconic amphitheater hosts a variety of performances, from classical music to rock concerts and movie screenings with live orchestras.

I really loved the idea of picnicking at The Hollywood Bowl, as most locals do, before the show starts. If you don’t bring your picnic, there are of course other dining options available onsite.

It’s a one of the best L.A experience – enjoying a great concert under the stars in a picturesque setting. You should check the schedule in advance to see which concerts are planned during your visit.

Day 5 – Option1: Continue exploring L.A

Day 5 visits:

A. Museums
B. Bradbury Building
C. Grand Central market
D. MOCA or the Broad
E. Walt Disney Concert Hall
F. Los Angeles City Hall
G. Olvera Street
H. Dodger Stadium

A. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles or Grammy Museum

For the last day of your trip to Los Angeles, you will have 2 options:

1. Continue to visit Los Angeles city center
2. Explore the city’s surroundings, and more precisely the south of L.A

Let’s start with option 1!

To start the day, you can either go to the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles, or learn more about the history of music at the Grammy Museum.

The Natural History Museum is a treasure trove for those interested in the natural world. From dinosaur fossils to stunning gemstone exhibits, the museum offers a comprehensive look at our planet’s history.

The museum’s Dinosaur Hall, showcases one of the most significant collections of dinosaur fossils in the world!

There is also the Butterfly Pavilion, where you can walk among free-flying butterflies in a beautifully arranged garden.

It’s definitely a museum to see during your 5-day itinerary in Los Angeles if you are traveling with kids.

Alternatively, the Grammy Museum is a must-visit for music enthusiasts. This dynamic space celebrates the creative process, the art and technology of the recording process, and, of course, the Grammy Awards.

The museum features interactive exhibits, costumes from famous Grammy performances, and various artifacts from musical legends.

I really loved the hands-on exhibits where you can mix your own tracks and experience the sensation of being a music producer.

B. Bradbury Building

Next, visit the Bradbury Building, an architectural gem in downtown Los Angeles.

This historic building, built in 1893, is known for its unique ironwork, exquisite woodcraft, and the beautiful light that filters through its glass roof.

The Bradbury Building has been featured in many movies and TV shows, making it a piece of cinematic history as well.

The building’s interior, accessible to the public, is a must-see for its incredible design. It’s one of the most photographed buildings in LA!

C. Grand Central Market

Continue your fifth day in Los Angeles by visiting the bustling Grand Central Market.

This landmark has been a downtown staple since 1917 and offers a diverse array of culinary experiences.

The market is a paradise for food lovers, featuring over 30 vendors offering everything from traditional Latin American dishes to modern Californian cuisine. Don’t miss trying the famous egg sandwiches or freshly made tacos.

D. Optional Visit: The Museum of Contemporary Art or The Broad

For art enthusiasts, consider a visit to The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), during your 5-day trip to Los Angeles.

Dedicated to collecting and exhibiting art created since 1940, this museum offers an extraordinary collection of contemporary works, including pieces by Rothko, Warhol, and Koons.

The museum’s rotating exhibitions and permanent collections make it a dynamic space to explore the evolving landscape of contemporary art. I really loved the thought-provoking installations and interactive pieces.

Another great option is The Broad, a contemporary art museum known for its post-war art collections and dynamic architecture.

Inside The Broad, you’ll find works by artists like Jeff Koons, Roy Lichtenstein, and Barbara Kruger.

E. Walt Disney Concert Hall

Then, make your way to the Walt Disney Concert Hall, an iconic symbol of the city’s cultural scene.

Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, this architectural masterpiece is a must-see for its stunning design and acoustic excellence.

The concert hall, home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic, is not only a venue for world-class performances but also an architectural landmark, with its stainless steel curves shimmering in the California sun.

While visiting the Walt Disney Concert Hall, you can opt for a guided tour to learn more about its design and the concerts hosted there. The tours often include a visit to the beautiful garden on the building’s roof.

F. Los Angeles City Hall

Continue your 5-day tour of Los Angeles with the Los Angeles City Hall, a historic landmark and the center of the city’s government.

This building, featured in various films and TV shows, offers a glimpse into LA’s political history and architectural heritage.

The City Hall’s observation deck on the 27th floor provides one of the best free viewpoints of Los Angeles.

From here, you can enjoy panoramic vistas of the city’s skyline, stretching from the mountains to the sea.

G. Olvera Street

As part of your fifth day in Los Angeles, immerse yourself in the rich cultural history of the city at Olvera Street.

Located in the heart of downtown LA, this vibrant Mexican marketplace, known as “the birthplace of Los Angeles,” is a living museum that pays homage to the city’s Mexican heritage.

Stroll through the bustling mercado where local vendors sell traditional Mexican crafts, clothing, and delicious street food.

I really loved trying the authentic Mexican cuisine: tasty tacos, tamales and some churros to end this streetfood dinner in style!

If you’re lucky, you may even be able to spot a mariachi performances and folkloric dancing.

At Olvera Street, be sure to visit the historic Avila Adobe, the oldest house in Los Angeles.

H. Dodger Stadium

Cap off your Los Angeles adventure with a visit to the Dodger Stadium, a must-see for sports enthusiasts.

As one of the oldest ballparks in Major League Baseball, it offers a glimpse into America’s favorite pastime.

Whether you’re catching a game or taking a behind-the-scenes tour, the stadium’s atmosphere is electric. I really loved learning about the history of the Dodgers and experiencing the excitement of a live baseball game, even if I knew absolutely nothing about the sport!

Even if you’re not a baseball fan, the view of the downtown skyline from the stadium is worth the visit.

Day 5 – Option 2: South of Los Angeles

Day 5 visits:

A. Battleship USS Iowa
B. Aquarium of the Pacific
C. Whale watching cruise

A. Battleship USS Iowa Museum

For an alternative fifth day in Los Angeles, start with a visit to the Battleship USS Iowa Museum, a floating museum that offers a glimpse into naval history and life at sea.

This historic battleship, known as “The Battleship of Presidents,” has served the United States for over 50 years and is now open to the public for tours.

You can walk the decks, enter the command center, and even see the crew’s living quarters. The scale of the battleship and its intricate machinery are particularly impressive!

The museum also offers interactive exhibits, making it a great visit for all ages.

Access to the battleship is included with the Los Angeles All inclusive Pass.

If you don’t have it, you need to book your ticket in advance here.

B. Long Beach and the Aquarium of the Pacific

Next, head to Long Beach to visit the Aquarium of the Pacific.

This expansive aquarium is home to over 11,000 animals, representing nearly 500 different species.

The Aquarium of the Pacific offers interactive experiences like a shark and ray touch pool or an activitiy where you will feed lorikeets (birds). And it’s always funny to watch the playful antics of sea otters and penguins!

The city of Long Beach itself is also a nice place to explore, with its beautiful marina, waterfront, and numerous dining options.

C. Newport Beach / Whale Watching Cruise

To end your day, you shoud go to Newport Beach and embark on a memorable whale watching cruise.

Newport Beach is known for its stunning coastline, luxurious ambiance, and excellent opportunities to spot marine life.

The whale watching cruise offers a chance to see whales, dolphins, and other marine animals in their natural habitat.

Where to stay in Los Angeles

Now that you know everything about the best things to do in Los Angeles in 5 days, there is still one thing left to do: booking your hotel!

In order to help you out, I have selected for you the best hotels of the city, each in a different price category.

And as always, to get the best prices, you should book your hotel as early as possible!

Here is my selection of the best hotels to stay in Los Angeles:

• HI Los Angeles – Santa Monica Hostel: Located 200 meters from Santa Monica beach. Dormitory beds from €50. Strong points: cleanliness, location next to the ocean. The perfect hostel if you’re looking for a cheap accommodation in Los Angeles.
• El Royale Hotel – Near Universal Studios Hollywood: Located close to Universal Studios, comfortable and spacious double room from €190, breakfast included. Strong points: friendly staff, free parking, comfortable beds.
• Park Plaza Lodge: Located close to LACMA and Farmers market. Modern and comfortable double room from €190. Benefits: swimming pool, parking, convenient location for sightseeing.
• citizenM Los Angeles Downtown: Located in Downtown Los Angeles, 400 metres from City Hall. Brightly decorated contemporary double room with large window overlooking the city, from €260, breakfast €19. Strong points: design, friendly staff, panoramic view of LA.
• Loews Hollywood Hotel: Located next to the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Beautiful double rooms, some with views of the Hollywood sign, from €255, breakfast €33. Strong points: heated swimming pool, geographical location, direct access to the shopping centre with lots of restaurants and a casino. My favorite hotel in L.A for its excellent value for money!
• Pendry West Hollywood: This 5-star hotel on Sunset Boulevard offers sublime, elegantly decorated rooms with large picture windows. From €620 per night, breakfast €56. Strong points: the rooftop pool, the view over Los Angeles, the design of the hotel.
• Shutters On The Beach: Magnificent 5-star hotel located directly on Santa Monica beach. Rooms with balcony and some with ocean views from €880, breakfast €46. Strong points: the view, the good restaurant, the style of the hotel, the swimming pool, the attentive staff. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Los Angeles!

Los Angeles in 5 days with your family

Wondering if it’s a good idea to go to Los Angeles for 5 days with kids?

The answer is yes!

Here are the best things to do in Los Angeles with your family:

• The bus guided tour to see the impressive houses in Beverly Hills
• Visit the Griffith Observatory and its planetarium. And if you have time, go to the Los Angeles zoo located nearby.
• Spend the day at Universal Studios Hollywood
• Discover the marine animals at the Aquarium of the Pacific
• Enjoy a ride at Pacifik Park, on Santa Monica Pier.
• The Natural History Museum: Dinosaurs, gems, and the Butterfly Pavilion are highlights of this renowned museum.

As you can see, most tourist attractions in Los Angeles are perfect for a family trip!

More ideas of things to do during your 5-day stay in Los Angeles

This suggested itinerary allows you to see the best attractions Los Angeles has to offer in 5 days.

And as it’s perfectly optimized, you won’t waste time going back and forth in the city.

However, if you want to change or add activities, you should read my other article about the 45 best places to visit.

It will for sure help you to finalize your itinerary.

Read it here: The 45 best things to do in Los Angeles.

Map of your 5-day itinerary in Los Angeles

To help you visualize your daily itineraries during your 5 days in Los Angeles, I have created this map with all the places to visit day by day. You can view the map’s legend by clicking on the top left button, the one with a little arrow.

You can thus see the suggested itineraries for each day.

Flight prices to Los Angeles

As always, you should book your plane tickets as early as possible to get the best prices.

To check the rates and schedules for flights to Los Angeles, you can use our flight comparator, in partnership with Skyscanner:

You need help to plan your 5 days trip to Los Angeles?

Don’t hesitate to ask me your questions in the comments section below, I will be glad to help you plan your 5-day itinerary.

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