7 Days in Los Angeles: The Best One Week Itinerary + Where to Stay

You’re planning to spend one week in Los Angeles and you’re looking for the best itinerary?

You’re in the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared for you this 7-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, Santa Monica Pier, Universal Studios and a lot more.

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, how to spend 1 week in Los Angeles? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

How to avoid waiting in line (and save a lot of time!) at Los Angeles tourist attractions

As you know it, Los Angeles is one of the top touristic destination in the world.

Every year, million of tourists like you, wants to discover the amazing attractions and activities the city has to offer. 

Unfortunately some of them are very popular and can be as crowded as the Empire State Building in New York or the Colosseum in Rome.

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

1. The Los Angeles Pass

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

With this pass, you will have access to more than 40 tourist attractions. This will allow you to do a lot of activities during your 7 days itinerary in Los Angeles! 

Here is a summary of the most popular activities included in the Los Angeles pass:

• Universal Studios Hollywood (only if you get a 3 or more days pass)
• Hollywood Sign guided 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

Since all these attractions are among the best things to do in Los Angeles in one week, this City Pass is really perfect for you visit!

Once you have ordered the pass, you will receive an email with your City Pass. No need for a physical card or anything, you will just have to show the pass on your phone at the entrance of each attraction. It’s super convenient!

Along with the pass, you will also get a digital guide with useful information to organize your visits, such as up to date opening hours and instructions to atttend each visits and activities.

To purchase your Los Angeles All inclusive pass, simply click on the green button below:

2. Buying online tickets for Los Angeles best tourist attractions

If you don’t want to buy the Los Angeles All inclusive pass to visit Los Angeles in a week, you can also buy tickets for each attraction and activities separately.

Almost everything can be booked online. And you can also book guided tours in advance!

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 skip-the-line tickets for your one-week stay in Los Angeles:

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

7 Days in Los Angeles: Must-See Attractions:

• Celebrities homes guided tour 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 7-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!

Los Angeles in 1 week: the best itinerary

Let’s now start your 7-day Los Angeles itinerary.

For each day, I will tell you everything you need to know about the places you will visit + give you a map that will help you visualize the itinerary a bit better.

I’m assuming you will be staying in Los Angeles for a full week, and that you have bought the Los Angeles All inclusive pass or skip the line tickets online in advance.

It’s the best way to save time and see as many tourist attractions as possible during your one week stay!

If, after reading this article, you still have questions (or need help organizing your holiday), you can ask me in the comments section at the very end of this article. I will be glad to help you plan your stay!

So, what are the best places to visit in Los Angeles in 7 days?

Day 1: What to do 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 and Rodeo Drive

Your one-week itinerary in Los Angeles begins in the neighborhood of Beverly Hills, a must-visit for anyone dreaming to see the L.A. lifestyle.

As you wander through Beverly Hills, you’ll be surrounded by luxurious mansions and perfectly manicured gardens. Don’t forget to snap a photo at the Beverly Hills sign in Beverly Gardens Park.

And if you want to see the most famous celebrity’s home, you should take a guided minibus tour. 

There is one included in your Los Angeles Explorer Pass, but if you don’t have it, you have to book the tour online, by clicking here:

You can also take a stroll around Rodeo Drive.

This world-renowned shopping street is lined with high-end brands and designer stores. Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, the window displays themselves are worth to see!

On Rodeo Drive, you will also see the Beverly Wilshire Hotel, famous for being a filming location of the 90’s classic “Pretty Woman”, starring  Richard Gere and Julia Roberts.

B. Sunset Boulevard / Sunset Strip

Next on your itinerary is the famous Sunset Boulevard, and more particularly the bustling Sunset Strip.

This stretch is legendary, known for its rock ‘n’ roll history and vibrant nightlife. The Strip is lined with an array of historic music venues, comedy clubs, boutiques, and restaurants.

You will also pass by The Roxy Theatre. If you love music, you’ll appreciate the history of this legendary music venue. It has seen some of the world’s greatest artists!

While there, you should also go to the Beverly Hills Hotel.

Known as ‘The Pink Palace’, this iconic hotel has been a celebrity hotspot for decades. You can stop by for a coffee or a meal at one of its restaurants.

C. Hollywood Walk of Fame

Of course, during your one-week trip to Los Angeles, you will want to see the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

This famed sidewalk celebrates the stars who have made significant contributions to entertainment. Strolling along the Walk of Fame, you’ll find over 2,600 brass stars embedded in the sidewalks, each bearing the name of a celebrity.

Take your time to find the stars of your favorite actors, musicians, directors…

While you’re here, don’t miss the TCL Chinese Theatre. You can see the handprints and footprints of various movie stars embedded in the concrete outside the theatre.

D. Hollywood Sign

During your one week trip to Los Angeles, you will also want to see one of its most iconic symbols: the Hollywood Sign.

This legendary landmark, perched high on Mount Lee, is visible from many parts of the city, but getting a closer view is a special experience.

For a great view and a bit of exercise, you can take a hike in Griffith Park leading up to a viewing area near the sign. The hike isn’t too strenuous, and the scenic views of Los Angeles along the way are absolutely worth it.

If you’re not up for a hike, there are several spots in the city that you can reach by car or public transportation and where you can get a good view of the sign.

The best ones are Lake Hollywood Park, the Hollywood and Highland Center and the Griffith Observatory (more about it below).

For the best photos of the Hollywood Sign, visit during the late afternoon, when the lighting is perfect.

E. Griffith Observatory

At the end of this first day, make your way to the Griffith Observatory.

It offers one of the best views of Los Angeles.

Inside the observatory, you’ll find exhibits about space and science, and the planetarium. If you’re spending 7 or 8 days in Los Angeles with your family, you can be sure that they will love that visit!

But the real highlight here is the observatory’s terrace.

You get a panoramic view of the Los Angeles basin, including downtown L.A., the Hollywood sign, and on clear days, even the Pacific Ocean.

It’s a beautiful sight, especially at sunset or during the early evening when the city lights begin to twinkle.

Day 2 in Los Angeles: Universal Studios Hollywood

For the 2nd day of your one week trip to Los Angeles, get ready for a day filled with adventure at Universal Studios Hollywood, one of Los Angeles’ most thrilling theme parks.

Known for its immersive worlds and attractions based on some of Hollywood’s biggest movies, this park offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

This is one of the major attractions in the city, so you really need to go there during your week in Los Angeles!

Start your visit with the Studio Tour, a signature attraction of Universal Studios.

It’s a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at real movie sets. You’ll see famous sets from movies and TV shows like Jaws, King Kong and Fast and Furious.

Also, don’t miss the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

Even if you’re not a Harry Potter fan, the attention to detail in this area is truly impressive. You can stroll through Hogsmeade, try a Butterbeer, and even experience ‘Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey’ ride.

For thrill-seekers, the Jurassic World – The Ride is a must. This exciting water ride takes you through a lush jungle complete with animatronic dinosaurs.

Fans of The Simpsons will love exploring Springfield. From Krusty Burger to the iconic Simpsons Ride, it’s a fun-filled experience with lots of laughs.

Perfect for families, Minion Mayhem is a lively and colorful world where the Despicable Me Minions bring laughter and chaos.

Now, let’s talk about the newest addition: Super Nintendo World, where you will discover the world of Super Mario!

This new area brings the beloved Nintendo game to life with colorful, interactive experiences.

You’ll feel like you’ve jumped right into the game, with familiar sights, sounds, and characters all around.

Day 3: Tourist attractions and activities 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

Begin your third day in Los Angeles with an unforgettable helicopter tour over the city.

This is a unique way to see L.A. from a completely different perspective. It’s indeed one of  the best thing to do in the city, you can’t miss it if you spend a week in Los Angeles.

As you soar above the city, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of iconic landmarks and stunning landscapes. I highly recommend choosing the tour that flies over the Hollywood Sign, downtown L.A., and along the coast.

B. The Getty Center

After your helicopter ride, head to The Getty Center, one of Los Angeles’s best art museums.

Nestled in the hills, the Getty Center is not only known for its impressive art collection but also for its stunning architecture and gardens.

As you explore the galleries, you’ll find a diverse collection of art ranging from medieval times to the present.

The museum houses European paintings, decorative arts, and photography. The collection of impressionist paintings is one of the best in the world.

Don’t miss the museum’s gardens. The Central Garden especially, is a masterpiece of landscape design, with its natural ravine and tree-lined walkways. It’s the perfect place to relax during your one week itinerary in Los Angeles, after exploring the galleries.

C. Santa Monica Pier

Your Los Angeles adventure continues with a visit to the Santa Monica Pier.

The Pier is home to an amusement park, complete with a Ferris wheel and roller coaster, providing stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

Stroll along the pier and enjoy the lively atmosphere, filled with street performers and local vendors.

Don’t forget to try some classic amusement parks food like funnel cakes or churros. For seafood lovers, the nearby restaurants serve up some delicious dishes.

You should visit the Pier in the late afternoon to enjoy the attractions and, if you wish to, stay for the sunset. It’s also less crowded during weekdays, which allows for a more relaxed experience.

D. Venice Beach and Venice Canals

Next, make your way to Venice Beach.

Famous for its bohemian spirit, Venice Beach is a lively mix of street performers, skateboarders, and colorful murals. The bustling boardwalk is lined with shops and cafes, it’s really a great place to explore and participate to the local life.

Take some time to relax on the beach or enjoy a bike ride.

The Muscle Beach outdoor gym, another famous spot, is worth checking out. It’s impressive to watch the athletes work out!

Don’t leave Venice without visiting the tranquil Venice Canals.

These charming canals, inspired by the ones in Venice, Italy, offer a peaceful escape. I really loved walking along these picturesque waterways while admiring the beautiful homes.

It’s a great way to end this third day of your one week trip to Los Angeles.

Day 4 – Continue exploring L.A

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 the 4th day of your 7-day stay in Los Angeles, discover the world of Hollywood film-making with a tour of Warner Bros Studios or Paramount Pictures Studio.

Both offer a behind-the-scenes look at how movies and TV shows are made, and each has its unique history.

At Warner Bros Studios, you can explore sets from famous shows like ‘Friends’ and ‘The Big Bang Theory’. The studio tour also includes a visit to the prop department and sound stages.

I also really enjoyed the interactive exhibits where you can learn about the filmmaking process.

Be sure to book your studio tour in advance, as spots can fill up quickly. The Warner bros studios tour is included in the Los Angeles Explorer Pass.

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

Alternatively, Paramount Pictures Studio offers a glimpse into the oldest operating studio in Hollywood. You’ll see iconic movie sets and learn about the studio’s history.

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

B. The Original Farmers Market

After your studio tour, head to The Original Farmers Market for a culinary adventure.

This historic L.A. spot, established in 1934, is a bustling marketplace with over 100 vendors, offering a wide variety of foods and goods. You can find everything from fresh produce to artisanal cheeses, exotic spices, and gourmet treats.

The Farmers Market is also home to a number of eateries serving up delicious meals – from classic American fare to international cuisine.

Visit the Farmers Market during lunchtime when all the stalls are open. It’s also a great place to pick up unique L.A. souvenirs and gifts.

C. The Grove

Continue your exploration of Los Angeles at The Grove, a famed outdoor shopping complex located next to the Farmers Market.

Known for its beautiful, open-air setting, The Grove offers a range of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

The Grove is also home to a movie theater, showing the latest releases.

Also, don’t miss the dancing fountain, which offers a water show set to music.

D. Visit some museums

Los Angeles is also a city with a rich cultural scene.

Spend the latter part of your day visiting one of the renowned museums like the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), La Brea Tar Pits and Museum or the Petersen Automotive Museum.

LACMA is the largest art museum in the western United States and boasts an impressive collection. Highlights include modern and contemporary works, Asian art, and an outdoor sculpture garden. I really loved the Urban Light installation – it’s super impressive, especially at night!

For car enthusiasts, the Petersen Automotive Museum showcases an extensive collection of cars and motorcycles, both classic and modern. Exhibits also tell the story of the automobile’s impact on society and culture.

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

After your visit to the Petersen Automotive Museum, I recommend exploring the fascinating La Brea Tar Pits and Museum, located within walking distance.

This unique site offers a glimpse into ancient Los Angeles, where mammoths, saber-toothed cats, and other Ice Age animals once roamed.

The Tar Pits are one of the world’s most famous fossil sites, where tar has been seeping up from the ground for thousands of years.

This natural trap has preserved the bones of animals that wandered into it, providing invaluable insights into prehistoric life. You can see the tar pits themselves, where excavations are still ongoing, and it’s super interesting to watch the scientists at work.

Inside the museum, you’ll find a wide range of fossils extracted from the pits, detailed exhibits about the Ice Age, and even life-sized models of some of the extinct animals.

The museum does a fantastic job of making prehistory accessible and engaging for all ages.

And if you want one more reason to visit La Brea: the 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

To end the 4th day of your Los Angeles visit in style, you should enjoy an evening filled with laughter or music, depending on your preference, at either The Comedy Store or The Hollywood Bowl.

If you’re in the mood for some comedy, The Comedy Store on Sunset Strip is the perfect destination.

This comedy club has seen the rise of many famous comedians and continues to host some of the best live comedy shows in L.A. There’s always a good mix of well-known and up-and-coming comedians performing.

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 venue hosts a variety of performances, ranging from classical music and jazz to rock concerts and movie screenings with live orchestral accompaniment.

Check the schedule in advance and book tickets for a performance that interests you. Many visitors bring a picnic to enjoy in the park areas outside the Bowl before the performance.

Day 5 – More places to visit in Los Angeles

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

Start your 5th day in Los Angeles with one of these 2 museums, depending on your interests: the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles or the Grammy Museum.

The Natural History Museum offers an incredible journey through time. From dinosaur fossils to rare gemstones, the museum’s exhibits are both educational and awe-inspiring.

One of my favorite parts was the Dinosaur Hall, where you can see a T-Rex skeleton up close. The museum also features an extensive collection of wildlife and nature exhibits that showcase the diversity of life on Earth.

It also has a beautiful Butterfly Pavilion, which is a hit, especially if you’re visiting with kids.

For music lovers, the Grammy Museum is a must-visit. This dynamic space celebrates the history and winners of the Grammy Awards.

There, you will find interactive exhibits, recording booths, and a rich collection of musical artifacts. I really loved the hands-on areas where you can mix your own tracks or sing along to famous songs.

Entrance of both of this museums are included with the Los Angeles All inclusive Pass.

As usual, if you don’t have the pass, you can buy your tickets for the Natural history museum here and for the Grammy by clicking here!

B. Bradbury Building

Next, head to the Bradbury Building, one of L.A.’s architectural gems.

Located in downtown Los Angeles, this historic building is known for its unique interior, characterized by ornate ironwork, open cage elevators, and a skylit atrium. You may recognize it from various movies and TV shows.

While the building is primarily used for office space and not all areas are open to the public, you can still visit the first floor and the lobby.

C. Grand Central Market

After exploring the Bradbury Building, make your way to the Grand Central Market.

This food hall, located in downtown Los Angeles, is a culinary hotspot that reflects the city’s diverse cultural scene. With over 30 vendors serving an array of cuisines, it’s a paradise for foodies.

You can find everything from gourmet coffee to artisanal cheese, authentic Mexican tacos, and freshly made pasta.

The atmosphere in the market is lively and welcoming, making it a great place to mingle with locals and other travelers.

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

In the afternoon, you have the option to visit one of two remarkable art museums: The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) or The Broad. Both are located downtown.

MOCA is dedicated to contemporary art and features an impressive collection of works created since 1940.

The museum showcases paintings, sculptures, and photography by emerging and established artists. The exhibitions are thought-provoking and often focus on challenging topics or innovative artistic techniques.

Alternatively, visit The Broad.

This museum offers free general admission to its permanent collection, which includes works by some of the most prominent figures in contemporary art.

The building’s architecture is itself a work of art, with a unique honeycomb-like exterior.

Inside, you’ll find installations, paintings, and sculptures that are both visually stunning and intellectually engaging. Don’t miss the Infinity Mirror Rooms by Yayoi Kusama, but be prepared for a separate queue as these are extremely popular.

E. Walt Disney Concert Hall

Then, you should head to the Walt Disney Concert Hall.

This architectural marvel, designed by Frank Gehry, is a landmark of downtown Los Angeles and home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

Even if you’re not attending a concert, the building itself is worth a visit. You will for sure love its striking design, featuring flowing stainless steel curves.

Take a stroll around the building to appreciate its unique structure.

You can also take a guided tour of the hall to learn about its architecture and history. The tours often include a visit to the beautiful garden on the building’s roof.

F. Los Angeles City Hall

Continue your stroll through downtown L.A with the Los Angeles City Hall.

This iconic building, with its distinctive tower, has been an emblem of the city since 1928.

You can visit the public areas of the City Hall and even go up to the observation deck, which offers panoramic views of downtown Los Angeles.

The City Hall is open to the public on weekdays.

G. Olvera Street

It’s now time to pass by Olvera Street, known as the birthplace of the city.

Located in El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historic district, Olvera Street is a colorful Mexican marketplace. Stroll through the narrow, tree-lined market filled with traditional Mexican crafts, souvenirs, and delicious food.

You can find everything from handcrafted leather goods to beautifully painted ceramics.

And be sure to try some authentic Mexican street tacos or tamales.

H. Dodger Stadium

End your day with a typical American experience at the Dodger Stadium, a baseball park and the home of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Whether you’re a sports fan or not, attending a baseball game here is about more than just the sport – it’s about experiencing this iconic American sport!

Even if you don’t catch a game, consider taking a tour of the stadium. You’ll get to see behind-the-scenes areas like the dugout, press box, and the field.

The views of downtown Los Angeles from the stadium are also impressive.

Day 6 – Exploring Los Angeles’ surroundings

Day 6 visits:

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

A. Battleship USS Iowa Museum

Begin Day 6 of your 7-day stay in Los Angeles with a visit to the Battleship USS Iowa Museum, located at the Los Angeles Waterfront in San Pedro.

This historic battleship, also known as the “Battleship of Presidents,” offers a glimpse into American naval history.

The self-guided tour allows you to explore the ship at your own pace, visiting areas like the command center, crew quarters, and the gun turrets.

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

If you don’t have it, don’t hesitate to book your ticket in advance here!

B. Long Beach and the Aquarium of the Pacific

After exploring the USS Iowa, head to Long Beach for a relaxing afternoon by the ocean.

Long Beach is known for its beautiful waterfront, diverse dining options, and its arts scene.

Take a stroll along the shoreline, enjoy the harbor views, or explore the shops and restaurants in the area.

A highlight of Long Beach is the Aquarium of the Pacific, one of the largest aquariums in the United States.

The aquarium is home to over 11,000 ocean animals representing nearly 500 species. It showcase the diverse marine life of the Pacific, from the sunny shores of Southern California to the icy waters of the Northern Pacific.

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

If you don’t have it, you need to buy your skip-the-line ticket here.

C. Newport Beach / Whale Watching Cruise

For an unforgettable ocean adventure, head to Newport Beach and embark on a whale watching cruise.

Newport Beach’s coastal waters are rich in marine life, offering one of the best places in California to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.

Most cruises also offer the chance to see other marine wildlife, such as sea lions and various sea birds.

The best times for whale watching are typically between May and November.

Option 2: Disneyland Park

Alternatively, for a day filled with fun, consider spending Day 6 at Disneyland Park.

Disneyland offers a wide range of attractions and entertainment for all ages, from thrilling rides to enchanting parades and shows.

Explore the various themed lands, meet your favorite Disney characters, and enjoy the classic rides like Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, and the Haunted Mansion.

Don’t miss the iconic Cinderella Castle and the spectacular nighttime fireworks show!

Day 7 around Los Angeles

For the last day of your one week itinerary in Los Angeles, you can choose from 4 differents options:

Option 1. Topanga State Park + Malibu
Option 2. Santa Barbara
Option 3. Joshua Tree National Park + Palm Springs
Option 4. San Diego

Option 1: Hiking at Topanga State Park + Visit Malibu

Start your final day in Los Angeles with a hike at Topanga State Park.

The park offers a variety of trails suitable for all levels, each providing spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, the Santa Monica Mountains, and even the Los Angeles basin on clear days.

Popular trails include the Eagle Rock Trail and the Musch Trail, which lead you through beautiful landscapes of oak woodlands and lush greenery.

After your hike, head to the city of Malibu. Known for its beautiful beaches and celebrity homes, Malibu offers a relaxed and luxurious atmosphere.

Visit Zuma Beach for a sunbathing session or a swim in the Pacific Ocean.

Don’t miss the Malibu Pier for a leisurely stroll, where you can enjoy ocean views and maybe spot some dolphins.

You can also explore the Adamson House and Malibu Lagoon Museum to learn about Malibu’s history.

For wine enthusiasts, a visit to one of Malibu’s vineyards is a must, where you can enjoy wine tasting in picturesque settings.

For lunch or dinner, Malibu Seafood is a local favorite, offering fresh and delicious seafood with an ocean view.

Option 2: Day Trip to Santa Barbara

Alternatively, consider a day trip to the charming city of Santa Barbara, known as the “American Riviera.”

Santa Barbara is really nice, whit its Mediterranean-style architecture.

Start your visit with a walk along the Santa Barbara waterfront and Stearns Wharf, where you can enjoy beautiful beach views and visit local shops and restaurants.

The Santa Barbara Mission is another must-see, known for its architecture and historical significance.

Explore the downtown area, especially State Street, to do some shopping. The Santa Barbara County Courthouse is a highlight for its beautiful Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and the panoramic views from its clock tower.

Also, Santa Barbara’s wine country is nearby, offering an opportunity to enjoy some of California’s finest wines in beautiful vineyard settings.

Option 3: Visit Joshua Tree National Park and Palm Springs

For an unforgettable experience of California’s desert beauty, take a day trip to Joshua Tree National Park and Palm Springs.

Joshua Tree, known for its otherworldly landscapes, offers incredible opportunities for hiking, photography, and simply soaking in the desert atmosphere.

Explore the unique rock formations, marvel at the iconic Joshua trees. Popular spots include Skull Rock, Cholla Cactus Garden, and Keys View – each offering a unique perspective of the park’s diverse ecosystems.

After exploring Joshua Tree, head to the nearby city of Palm Springs.

Known for its mid 20th century modern architecture, luxurious resorts, and art scene, Palm Springs is the perfect place to relax.

Enjoy a stroll down Palm Canyon Drive, explore the art museums, or indulge in some fine dining.

Option 4: San Diego

Alternatively, consider a trip south to the city of San Diego, known for its gorgeous beaches, rich history, and cultural diversity.

Start your visit at Balboa Park, a large urban cultural park home to museums, gardens, and the renowned San Diego Zoo.

Don’t miss exploring the historic Gaslamp Quarter, where you’ll find a lively scene of shops, restaurants, and entertainment.

For beach lovers, a visit to La Jolla Cove offers a chance to relax by the ocean and possibly see sea lions and seals up close.

The USS Midway Museum, a historic naval aircraft carrier turned museum, provides an in-depth look at naval aviation and military history.

San Diego is known for its craft beer scene, so consider visiting one of the many breweries in the area.

Also, if you’re traveling with family, a trip to SeaWorld or LEGOLAND California might be a fun addition to your itinerary.

Click here for all the best things to do in San Diego!

Where to stay in Los Angeles

Now that you know everything about the best things to do in Los Angeles in 7 days, you have still one thing to do: book 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!

One week in Los Angeles with your family

You can easily do this suggested one week itinerary in Los Angeles with your kids.

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.
• Natural History Museum: Dinosaurs, gems, and the Butterfly Pavilion are highlights at this renowned museum.

More ideas of things to do during your 7-day stay in Los Angeles

If you want more information about the best places to visit and activities to in Los Angeles, you should also read my other articles: The 45 best things to do in Los Angeles!

Map of your 7-day itinerary in Los Angeles

To help you visualize your daily itineraries during your 7 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 one week 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 7-day itinerary.

You’re traveling in the US? These articles will help you!

Discover all my articles about USA: All my articles to help you plan your trip to USA are listed there.

• Itinerary: 10 days USA West coast – How to visit Western USA in 9, 10 or 11 days
• Itinerary: 2 weeks USA West coast – The perfect 14-15 days road trip!
• Itinerary: 3 weeks USA West coast – An epic 20-21 days road trip!

• Las Vegas: Top 30 Best things to do and must-see attractions
• Los Angeles: The 45 best places to visit
• New York: The 57 best things to do
• San Francisco: The 27 epic must-see attractions

• 2 Days in Los Angeles – How to visit L.A in 48h
• 3 Days in Los Angeles – The perfect itinerary to discover the city

• 2 Days in New York – The best itinerary to visit the Big Apple in 48h
• 3 Days in New York – All the best places to visit + Detailed itinerary
• 4 Days in New York – The perfect itinerary for your visit
• 5 Days in New York – Itinerary + Best things to do + My Tips
• One Week in New York – The perfect 7-day itinerary

• Where to stay in New York ? My guide of the best hotels for an EPIC stay!

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