Los Angeles Itinerary | 2-10 Days Guide

The City of Angels sprawls across 500 square miles where mountains meet the Pacific, movie studios produce dreams, and tacos taste better than anywhere else.

Los Angeles isn’t one city but dozens of distinct neighborhoods from glitzy Beverly Hills to artsy Downtown, beachy Santa Monica to hipster Silver Lake.

Each area maintains its own character while contributing to LA’s reputation as America’s entertainment capital.

From Hollywood’s star-studded sidewalks to Malibu’s surf breaks, the city offers adventures for every visitor type.

This guide breaks down the perfect Los Angeles itinerary, whether for a quick weekend escape or a full week exploring Southern California’s biggest city.

Itinerary Summary

2 Days in Los Angeles – Quick highlights sprint
3 Days in Los Angeles – Essential LA experience
4 Days in Los Angeles – Complete first-timer’s journey
5 Days in Los Angeles – Extended neighborhood exploration
7 Days in Los Angeles – Local living with hidden spots
10 Days in Los Angeles – Total SoCal immersion
Getting Around Los Angeles
Los Angeles Travel Tips
Where to Stay in Los Angeles

Planning your trip? Check out our guide on the best time to visit Los Angeles for ideal weather and events before building your itinerary.

2 Days in Los Angeles: 48 Hours in the City of Angels

This fast-paced itinerary works for travelers passing through California or business visitors extending their trip. You’ll experience LA’s most iconic moments without spreading yourself thin. Perfect for photographers and movie fans wanting maximum star power packed into one power weekend.

Day 1: Hollywood and Entertainment

Morning: Start at the Hollywood Walk of Fame before 9 AM to avoid crowds. Find your favorite stars’ names among 2,700+ embedded in the sidewalk along Hollywood Boulevard. Walk to the TCL Chinese Theatre for handprints and footprints of movie legends. The ornate architecture alone warrants photos.

Afternoon: Drive up to Griffith Observatory for panoramic LA views, including the Hollywood Sign. The free museum inside explains astronomy and Los Angeles history. Hike behind the observatory for closer Hollywood Sign views if energy permits. The moderate trail takes 30-45 minutes one way.

Lunch: Grab tacos at Leo’s Tacos Truck on La Brea near Hollywood or head to Grand Central Market downtown for diverse food stall options.

Evening: Universal Studios Hollywood stays open until 9 PM many nights. Tour the working studio backlot, seeing actual film sets, then experience themed rides including Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Jurassic World. CityWalk outside the park offers dinner and entertainment. Alternatively, explore Sunset Strip’s legendary music venues and restaurants.

Day 2: Beaches and Culture

Morning: Breakfast at Eggslut in Grand Central Market for their famous breakfast sandwiches. Walk across the street to Angels Flight, the historic funicular railway. Browse the Bradbury Building’s Victorian ironwork featured in Blade Runner. Continue to The Broad museum for contemporary art, including Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirrors (advance reservations required).

Afternoon: Drive to Santa Monica Pier for the classic SoCal beach experience. The Ferris wheel, arcade games, and street performers create a carnival atmosphere. Walk or bike the beachfront path south to Venice Beach. The Venice Boardwalk’s street performers, Muscle Beach, and skateboard park deliver quintessential LA people-watching.

Lunch: Grab fish tacos or burgers at one of Venice Beach’s casual beachfront restaurants.

Evening: Sunset at Santa Monica Beach, watching the sun sink into the Pacific. Dinner at The Ivy on Robertson Boulevard if you want celebrity spotting potential, or keep it casual at In-N-Out Burger for cult-favorite California burgers. End with drinks at a West Hollywood rooftop bar.

Best Homes to Stay for a 2-Day Los Angeles Trip:

3 Days in Los Angeles: The Essential Hollywood Weekend

Three days capture LA’s essence perfectly for first-time visitors or groups celebrating special occasions. This itinerary balances entertainment industry tourism with beach time, making it ideal for bachelorette parties, milestone birthdays, or friend reunions. You’ll experience the city’s diverse character from downtown culture to coastal beauty.

Day 1: Hollywood Immersion

Morning: Tour Warner Bros. or Paramount Studios for behind-the-scenes studio experiences. The WB tour shows actual production areas and backlot streets. Tours run 2-3 hours and require advance booking. Alternatively, visit the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, exploring film history through interactive exhibits.

Lunch: Pink’s Hot Dogs on La Brea serves famous chili dogs and celebrity-named specialties since 1939. The line moves despite its length.

Afternoon: Drive through Beverly Hills, spotting mansions on Rodeo Drive’s luxury shopping district. Continue to West Hollywood for shopping and gallery browsing. The Sunset Strip’s legendary rock clubs and billboards capture LA’s music history.

Evening: Catch sunset from Runyon Canyon’s hiking trails with Hollywood Sign and city views. The moderate 3-mile loop attracts locals and tourists. Dinner at Republique for French-California cuisine in a historic building, or try trendy restaurants along Melrose Avenue. End with comedy at The Comedy Store or Largo at the Coronet.

Day 2: Beach Cities and Coastal Culture

Morning: Breakfast at Gjusta in Venice for outstanding pastries and coffee. Walk the Venice Canals, exploring this quiet neighborhood mimicking Venice, Italy. The pedestrian bridges and canal-front homes create surprising serenity blocks from the beach chaos.

Afternoon: Head to Malibu via Pacific Coast Highway. Stop at El Matador State Beach for dramatic sea caves and rock formations. Continue to Malibu Pier and Surfrider Beach, where modern surfing culture began. The Getty Villa in Pacific Palisades showcases ancient Greek and Roman art in a recreated Roman villa (free but requires timed-entry reservations).

Lunch: Malibu Farm on the pier serves farm-to-table California cuisine overlooking the ocean.

Evening: Return to Santa Monica for Third Street Promenade’s pedestrian shopping and street performers. Dinner at The Lobster overlooking Santa Monica Pier, or grab upscale Mexican at Border Grill. Watch the sunset from Palisades Park’s bluffs before heading back.

Day 3: Downtown Arts and Culture

Morning: Start at Grand Central Market for breakfast from multiple vendors. Tour the nearby Bradbury Building’s Victorian architecture and ride Angels Flight funicular. Walk to The Broad museum for contemporary art, then explore Downtown’s Arts District with street art murals and galleries.

Lunch: Bestia in the Arts District serves innovative Italian cuisine in an industrial-chic space. Reservations essential.

Afternoon: Visit LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art) for extensive art collections and the famous Urban Light installation. The adjacent La Brea Tar Pits reveal Ice Age fossils still being excavated. Continue to The Grove shopping complex and Original Farmers Market for browsing and snacking.

Evening: Final sunset from Griffith Observatory if you missed it earlier. Farewell dinner at Perch rooftop in Downtown for French bistro fare with skyline views. The rooftop atmosphere suits celebrations. End with cocktails in Downtown’s speakeasy bars or Arts District breweries.

Best Homes to Stay for a 3-Day Los Angeles Weekend:

4 Days in Los Angeles: The Neighborhood Explorer

Four days lets you dig deeper into LA’s distinct areas while hitting major attractions. This works perfectly for families with kids or groups wanting both theme park thrills and cultural experiences. You’ll balance famous spots with local neighborhoods that Angelenos actually frequent.

Day 1: Theme Park Magic

Morning: Early arrival at Universal Studios Hollywood beats crowds. The Studio Tour reveals working backlot and special effects demonstrations. Harry Potter’s Wizarding World attracts massive crowds, so hit this first. Other themed areas include Jurassic World and Transformers rides.

Afternoon: Continue exploring Universal Studios. The park requires a full day for a complete experience. CityWalk outside offers dining and entertainment if you finish early.

Lunch: Multiple restaurants inside Universal Studios and CityWalk offer casual dining from burgers to sushi.

Evening: Exit the park and drive to Burbank for dinner at Porto’s Bakery and Cafe. Their Cuban pastries, potato balls, and sandwiches deliver authentic flavors at affordable prices. The line moves quickly despite appearing long. Alternatively, explore Burbank’s restaurants near the studios.

Day 2: Museum Mile and Beverly Hills

Morning: Breakfast at The Griddle Cafe in Hollywood for massive pancakes and creative morning fare. Drive to Museum Row on Wilshire Boulevard. Choose between LACMA for broad art collections, the Petersen Automotive Museum for car enthusiasts, or the Academy Museum for film lovers. Each requires 2-3 hours minimum.

Afternoon: Continue to Beverly Hills for window shopping on Rodeo Drive. Even if luxury retail isn’t your thing, the people-watching and architecture entertain. Walk residential streets near Rodeo, spotting impressive homes. Continue to West Hollywood for The Grove and Original Farmers Market complex.

Lunch: The Original Farmers Market offers dozens of food stalls serving everything from Louisiana gumbo to Brazilian grilled meat. The historic market opened in 1934.

Evening: Sunset from West Hollywood’s rooftop bars like EP & LP or Laurel Hardware. Dinner at Catch LA for seafood and celebrity spotting, or keep it casual at Jon & Vinny’s for Italian comfort food. End with live music on Sunset Strip at Whisky a Go Go or The Roxy.

Day 3: Beach Day and Coastal Culture

Morning: Drive to Manhattan Beach for a small-town beach atmosphere. The Manhattan Beach Pier and surrounding sand offer excellent swimming and people-watching. Local surfers catch waves while volleyball players compete on courts. Breakfast at Uncle Bill’s Pancake House for classic diner fare.

Afternoon: Continue south to Palos Verdes Peninsula for coastal drives along stunning cliffs. Stop at Point Vicente Lighthouse and Terranea Resort’s coastal trail. Whale watching is possible from November through April. Return north through Redondo Beach’s harbor area.

Lunch: Grab seafood at one of Redondo Beach Pier’s restaurants overlooking the marina.

Evening: Head to Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Venice for trendy boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. This mile-long street captures LA’s creative spirit. Dinner at Gjelina for California-Mediterranean sharing plates. Their roasted squash and lamb neck ragout earns raves. End with drinks at The Bungalow in Santa Monica.

Day 4: Hidden LA

Morning: Breakfast at Republique for pastries and French-inspired brunch. Explore Los Feliz and Silver Lake neighborhoods with vintage shops, coffee roasters, and local character. Visit Griffith Park’s Autry Museum of the American West or explore hiking trails. The park offers 4,300 acres of recreation space.

Lunch: Alimento in Silver Lake serves Italian-California cuisine in a casual neighborhood setting. Or try HomeState for Texas-style breakfast tacos served all day.

Afternoon: Drive to Pasadena for the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. The 120-acre estate showcases rare books, British and American art, and themed gardens, including Japanese and desert collections. Allow 3+ hours for thorough exploring. Or visit the Norton Simon Museum for European art.

Evening: Dinner in Old Town Pasadena’s pedestrian district with dozens of restaurants. The Raymond 1886 offers upscale California cuisine in a historic Craftsman cottage. Return to LA via the 110 freeway for nighttime city light views.

Best Homes to Stay for a 4-Day Los Angeles Trip:

5 Days in Los Angeles: The Complete First-Timer’s Journey

Five days reveal Los Angeles beyond the postcard scenes and give time to appreciate why people accept traffic for the lifestyle. Perfect for families planning vacations or couples wanting a thorough exploration without rushing. This pace lets you experience the city’s full range from urban Downtown to mountain trails.

Day 1: Downtown Deep Dive

Morning: Start at Grand Central Market for breakfast. Tour the historic Bradbury Building’s Victorian architecture has been featured in countless films. Ride Angels Flight funicular up Bunker Hill. Visit The Broad museum for contemporary art, including Jeff Koons and Yayoi Kusama (reserve Infinity Mirrors ahead).

Lunch: Eat at one of Grand Central Market’s many vendors. Villa’s Tacos holds a Michelin Bib Gourmand for its exceptional tacos.

Afternoon: Walk through the Arts District, exploring street art murals and galleries. Hauser & Wirth gallery offers free admission in a converted flour mill. Continue to Little Tokyo for Japanese shops, gardens, and cultural experiences. The Japanese American National Museum explains immigration history.

Evening: Dinner at Bestia for innovative Italian or Otium next to The Broad for California cuisine. End at rooftop bars like Perch or Spire 73 for skyline views and cocktails.

Day 2: Hollywood and Griffith Park

Morning: Early arrival at Griffith Observatory before crowds. Hike to the Hollywood Sign via the Mount Hollywood Trail (6 miles round trip) or the Brush Canyon Trail (3 miles). The exposed trails require sun protection and plenty of water but deliver iconic LA views.

Lunch: Griffith Observatory’s cafe offers basic fare, or pack picnic supplies to eat with views.

Afternoon: Tour Warner Bros. or Paramount Studios for behind-the-scenes access. The working studio tours last 2-3 hours, showing real production areas. Book well ahead as tours fill quickly. Or visit the Hollywood Museum in the historic Max Factor Building for film memorabilia.

Evening: Walk the Hollywood Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre after sunset when temperatures cool. Dinner at Musso & Frank Grill, Hollywood’s oldest restaurant since 1919. Their martinis and old-school steakhouse atmosphere capture Hollywood’s golden era. End with live music at Hotel Cafe or shows at Hollywood Bowl if the season aligns.

Day 3: Coastal Highway

Morning: Drive Pacific Coast Highway north to Malibu. Stop at El Matador State Beach for dramatic rock formations and photo opportunities. Continue to Malibu Pier and Surfrider Beach, where modern surfing culture developed. The Getty Villa requires free timed-entry tickets but showcases ancient Greek and Roman art in a spectacular hilltop setting.

Lunch: Malibu Farm or Neptune’s Net for casual seafood with ocean views.

Afternoon: Continue north to Zuma Beach for swimming and sunbathing, or Point Dume State Beach for tide pools and sea lion viewing from the promontory. The scenic drive along PCH delivers endless Pacific views with dramatic cliffs and hidden beaches.

Evening: Return south, stopping at the Santa Monica Pier for sunset. Walk the Third Street Promenade before dinner at The Lobster overlooking the pier. The seafood restaurant balances special occasion elegance with beach proximity. End with drinks at rooftop bars in Santa Monica.

Day 4: Theme Parks or Studios

Morning: Full day at either Universal Studios Hollywood, Disneyland in Anaheim, or Knott’s Berry Farm. Each theme park requires a full day for thorough exploration. Universal’s backlot tour and movie-themed rides capture LA’s entertainment industry. Disneyland offers classic Disney magic 45 minutes south in Anaheim.

Afternoon: Continue at your chosen park. Most stay open until evening with night shows and fireworks.

Lunch: Theme parks offer numerous dining options from quick service to sit-down restaurants.

Evening: Exit the park exhausted but exhilarated. A simple dinner near your accommodation or delivery lets you recover. If energy remains, explore your neighborhood’s local restaurants and bars.

Day 5: Neighborhood Favorites

Morning: Brunch at The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker in West Hollywood for modern takes on breakfast classics. Explore West Hollywood’s design district and Santa Monica Boulevard. Continue to Beverly Hills for architecture tours of historic homes.

Afternoon: Visit LACMA for art collections and the Urban Light installation of 202 restored street lamps. The adjacent La Brea Tar Pits preserve Ice Age fossils with ongoing excavations. Or tour the Getty Center in Brentwood for European art and stunning architecture. The hilltop museum offers free admission but charges for parking.

Lunch: The Getty Center’s restaurant serves California cuisine with views, or grab food trucks near LACMA.

Evening: Final sunset from Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook for 360-degree LA views from mountains to ocean. The 282 steps to the top workout but a reward. Farewell dinner at Providence for Michelin-starred seafood tasting menus, or Republique for more approachable upscale dining. Toast five days exploring the City of Angels.

Best Homes to Stay for a 5-Day Los Angeles Adventure:

7 Days in Los Angeles: Entertainment Capital Like a Local

A full week lets you settle into LA’s rhythm, discovering why creative types choose this sprawling city despite traffic and costs. This itinerary works for remote workers, extended families, or entertainment industry enthusiasts wanting complete immersion. You’ll have time to revisit favorite spots and venture into neighborhoods tourists skip.

Days 1-5: Follow the 5-Day Itinerary

Start with the comprehensive five-day plan covering Downtown, Hollywood, beaches, and theme parks. This foundation ensures you experience LA’s essential character before exploring deeper.

Day 6: South Bay and Beach Cities

Morning: Breakfast at Uncle Bill’s Pancake House in Manhattan Beach. Walk the Manhattan Beach Pier and the surrounding sand, watching surfers. This beach town maintains a small-community vibe despite LA proximity. Rent bikes and cruise The Strand beachfront path connecting beach cities.

Afternoon: Continue to Hermosa Beach for lunch at one of the pier restaurants. Walk the beach and check out surf shops. Drive to Palos Verdes Peninsula for dramatic coastal cliffs and hiking. The Point Vicente Lighthouse and adjacent trails offer whale watching from December through April.

Lunch: Hermosa Beach Pier restaurants serve fresh seafood with ocean views.

Evening: Return via Torrance for dinner at one of the area’s many Asian restaurants. The South Bay hosts large Asian communities with authentic Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese dining. Alternatively, sunset dinner at Terranea Resort’s Nelson’s restaurant overlooks the Pacific from a clifftop perch.

Day 7: Your Choice Day

Morning: Sleep in and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a favorite spot discovered during the week. Maybe return to Grand Central Market or try a new neighborhood cafe. Final morning hike at Runyon Canyon, Temescal Canyon, or Griffith Park, enjoying LA’s surprising nature access.

Afternoon: Options abound for the final day. Revisit a favorite museum, explore neighborhoods you haven’t fully seen, or simply relax poolside. Shopping on Melrose, Abbot Kinney, or Robertson Boulevard makes a great last-day activity. Venice Beach boardwalk people-watching never gets old.

Lunch: In-N-Out Burger for the final California burger fix. The cult chain appears throughout LA, making it convenient.

Evening: Final sunset from your favorite spot. Maybe it’s Santa Monica Pier, Griffith Observatory, or a beach you discovered. Splurge on dinner at Providence, n/naka, or Vespertine for Michelin-starred tasting menus. Or keep it casual at Gjelina, Jon & Vinny’s, or your personal favorite. Toast seven days knowing you’ve experienced LA beyond tourism.

Best Homes to Stay for a 7-Day Los Angeles Experience:

10 Days in Los Angeles: Total Southern California Immersion

Ten days transform Los Angeles from a destination to a temporary home. This extended stay suits digital nomads, sabbatical travelers, or anyone craving complete SoCal immersion. You’ll establish routines, discover secret hiking trails, and venture across Southern California exploring the broader region.

Days 1-7: Follow the 7-Day Itinerary

Complete the week-long plan, ensuring comprehensive LA coverage from Downtown to the beaches. By day seven, you’ll know your favorite neighborhoods and coffee shops.

Day 8: Orange County Day Trip

Morning: Drive south to Laguna Beach for art galleries and pristine coves. This seaside town features 30+ galleries and monthly art walks. The beaches nestled between cliffs create intimate swimming spots. Walk the coastal trail between Heisler Park and Main Beach.

Afternoon: Continue to Newport Beach for Balboa Island exploring. The tiny island accessed by bridge features charming shops and famous frozen bananas. Rent bikes or simply walk the waterfront path. The Balboa Fun Zone offers vintage amusement attractions.

Lunch: Ruby’s Diner on Balboa Pier serves classic American diner food with ocean views.

Evening: Return to LA via Pacific Coast Highway, stopping at Huntington Beach if time permits. “Surf City USA” lives up to its nickname with consistent waves and beach culture. Dinner back in LA at a neighborhood favorite or simple takeout after a full day.

Day 9: Day Trip Options

Morning: Choose your adventure: Santa Barbara (90 minutes north) for wine tasting and Spanish architecture, Joshua Tree National Park (2.5 hours east) for desert hiking and rock formations, or San Diego (2.5 hours south) for beaches and attractions. Each destination deserves an overnight stay, but day trips work for quick tastes.

Afternoon: Continue exploring the chosen destination. Santa Barbara’s State Street pedestrian area offers shopping and dining. Joshua Tree’s alien landscape and rock climbing attract outdoor enthusiasts. San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter and beaches deliver a beach city vibe.

Lunch: Each destination offers numerous dining options from casual to upscale.

Evening: Return to LA exhausted but enriched. Long driving days mean a simple dinner near the rental. Reflect on how the ten days revealed California’s diversity beyond LA proper.

Day 10: Favorite Spots and Farewell

Morning: Return to a favorite breakfast spot from the week. Final morning activity at your preferred spot. Maybe it’s beach time, hiking, or simply sitting at a cafe, people-watching. Last-minute shopping at Rose Bowl Flea Market (second Sunday monthly) or Melrose Trading Post (Sunday) if timing works.

Lunch: Final meal at In-N-Out or favorite taco spot. You’ve earned opinions about LA food by now.

Afternoon: Last-minute exploring or souvenir shopping. The Hollywood & Highland complex offers tourist gifts. Abbot Kinney and Silver Lake boutiques provide more unique local products. Or simply drive through favorite neighborhoods, appreciating the vibe.

Evening: Sunset from Griffith Observatory, Santa Monica Pier, or your personal favorite spot. Farewell dinner at Michelin-starred Providence, innovative Vespertine, or your discovered gem. Toast ten days well spent in the City of Angels, knowing you’ve experienced LA beyond Hollywood stereotypes.

Best Homes to Stay for a 10-Day Los Angeles Immersion:

If You Have Extra Time

Day Trips Beyond Los Angeles

Disneyland Resort: The Anaheim theme park deserves a full day or an overnight stay. Both Disneyland and California Adventure parks offer classic Disney entertainment with themed lands and attractions.

Santa Catalina Island: Ferry from Long Beach or San Pedro reaches this Mediterranean-like island in an hour. Avalon’s harbor town and island interior offer hiking, diving, and escape from mainland bustle.

Temecula Wine Country: 90 minutes south, this inland wine region produces quality wines with a Mediterranean climate. Over 40 wineries offer tastings amid rolling hills and vineyard views.

Hidden LA Gems

The Last Bookstore: This multi-story bookstore in Downtown features new and used books in a former bank building. The tunnel of books and art installations creates Instagram-worthy shopping.

Sunken City: This landslide area in San Pedro reveals abandoned streets and foundations sliding into the Pacific. Technically closed but accessible with caution. The ruins and coastal views attract urban explorers.

Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine: This peaceful temple and garden in Pacific Palisades offers meditation areas, koi ponds, and a spiritual atmosphere. Free admission provides escape from LA chaos.

Not sure where to stay? Check out our curated lists of top Airbnbs in Los Angeles for neighborhood-specific recommendations.

Getting Around Los Angeles

Los Angeles sprawls across 500 square miles with limited public transportation. The city’s car-centric design means rental vehicles provide the most flexibility. Understanding traffic patterns and parking challenges helps maximize sightseeing time while minimizing frustration.

Rental Cars: Essential for comprehensive LA exploring. Book ahead as prices fluctuate wildly during peak seasons. Expect $50-100 daily, depending on vehicle type. LA traffic gets heavy during rush hours (6-10 AM and 3-7 PM). Google Maps provides real-time traffic routing. Parking downtown costs $10-30 daily, while beach areas offer metered street parking.

Public Transportation: Metro rail and bus systems connect some areas, but remain impractical for tourists. The Expo Line links Downtown to Santa Monica. Red and Purple lines serve Hollywood and Universal City. However, reaching attractions requires multiple transfers, making rental cars more efficient.

Rideshare: Uber and Lyft operate throughout LA with good availability except during peak hours. Expect $20-40 for cross-town trips, $50-70 from LAX to beach areas. Surge pricing affects popular areas during events and evenings. Budget-conscious travelers can combine rideshare with Metro rail for a hybrid approach.

Biking: Some neighborhoods like Santa Monica, Manhattan Beach, and Venice offer bike-friendly paths. Metro Bikes provides bike-share throughout the city. However, LA’s sprawl and car culture make cycling challenging for tourists trying to cover multiple areas.

Walking: Individual neighborhoods stay walkable, but distances between areas require transportation. Downtown’s Arts District, Venice Beach, and Third Street Promenade allow pedestrian exploration. However, LA wasn’t built for walking, and sidewalks disappear in many areas.

Where to Stay in Los Angeles

Choosing the right home base shapes your entire LA experience. AvantStay offers premium vacation rentals across Los Angeles’ best neighborhoods.

From Hollywood Hills homes to beach condos, our curated collection positions you perfectly for exploring the entertainment capital.

Why Choose AvantStay

Unlike traditional vacation rentals, AvantStay properties are professionally managed with consistent quality standards. Every home features thoughtful design, high-end furnishings, and modern amenities, making your stay comfortable and memorable.

Our Los Angeles homes span from central Hollywood to coastal Santa Monica, ensuring you’re positioned for whatever LA experience you’re seeking.

Concierge Services and Upgrades

AvantStay’s personal concierge service elevates your vacation beyond simple accommodation. We handle the details so you can focus on experiencing LA’s entertainment and culture.

Mid-Stay Cleaning: Keep your space fresh during extended stays, so you can relax without worrying about upkeep during your LA adventure.
Bring Your Pets: AvantStay encourages time spent with loved ones, and pets are no exception. We offer pet-friendly properties where your furry family members are welcome.
Private Chef: Elevate your dining experience with a personal chef creating California-inspired cuisine without restaurant reservations.
Stocked Fridge: Skip the grocery store hassle and let us handle the shopping. Send us your list or select from our curated packages.
Transportation: Need a ride to studios, theme parks, or beaches? We arrange reliable transportation throughout your stay, exploring LA stress-free.
Find Local Child Care: Traveling with kids but want adults-only studio tours? We help you find and hire local sitters with detailed profiles, references, and reviews.
In-Home Massage: Perfect after theme park days and hiking, indulge in ultimate relaxation without leaving your rental.
Rent Baby Gear: Traveling with a baby doesn’t mean packing your entire nursery. Rent cribs, strollers, car seats, and more.

For other requests, rentals, or special occasion setups, our concierge team handles whatever makes your Los Angeles vacation exceptional.

Book Through the AvantStay App

Download the AvantStay app to browse properties, manage bookings, and access concierge services all in one place. The app provides 24/7 support, check-in details, local recommendations, and direct messaging with our team.

Download via: AvantStay iOS Application

Download via: AvantStay Android Application

Essential Travel Tips

Before you cruise the PCH and hike to the Hollywood Sign, a little preparation goes a long way. These essential travel tips will help you feel at ease while having the best LA experience.

Getting To and From LAX

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) serves as one of America’s busiest airports, with terminals scattered across two miles. The sprawling layout can confuse first-time visitors, but shuttle buses connect all terminals.

Airport Transportation: Rideshare pickup moved to the LAX-it lot, requiring shuttle from terminals. The consolidated pickup area reduces terminal congestion but adds 10-15 minutes. Expect $35-60 to Hollywood, $25-45 to Santa Monica, $60-80 to Pasadena. The FlyAway bus connects LAX to Union Station downtown for $10. Rental cars require a shuttle to the consolidated facility off-airport.

Alternative Airports: Burbank Airport (BUR) serves the Valley and Pasadena with easier access and less congestion. Long Beach Airport (LGB) and John Wayne Airport (SNA) in Orange County offer additional options depending on your destination.

Rental Cars: All major companies operate from LAX’s consolidated facility. Book ahead for better rates. Expect $40-100 daily, depending on vehicle and season. Navigation apps are essential for LA driving. Download offline maps in case cell service drops.

Packing for Los Angeles

Year-Round Essentials: Sunglasses, sunscreen, layers for temperature variations between neighborhoods, comfortable walking shoes, and a light jacket for evening coastal fog. LA’s Mediterranean climate means pleasant weather year-round, but mornings can be cool.

Spring/Summer (April-September): Perfect beach weather with 70-85°F temperatures. Pack swimsuit, beach gear, and sun protection. June Gloom brings morning fog to the coast, burning off by afternoon. Concerts and festivals fill the summer calendar, so book ahead.

Fall/Winter (October-March): Mild temperatures 60-75°F with occasional rain, November through March. Pack a light jacket and layers. Santa Ana winds bring hot, dry conditions randomly. Winter is actually LA’s wet season, though rain remains infrequent compared to other cities.

Practical Los Angeles Preparation

Traffic Reality: LA traffic is legendary for good reason. Plan extra time for everything. Rush hours extend from 6-10 AM and 3-7 PM, but congestion persists throughout the day. Fridays are the worst for beach-bound traffic. Use Google Maps or Waze for real-time routing.

Parking Challenges: Read parking signs carefully as restrictions vary block by block. Street sweeping tickets cost $73+. Valet parking is common at restaurants and hotels. Beach parking fills early summer weekends. Downtown parking garages charge $10-30 daily.

Costs: LA isn’t cheap. Expect $15-30 for casual meals, $50-100 for nice dinners, $7-10 for craft beers, and $12-18 for cocktails. Theme park tickets cost $100-150+. Activities range from free museum days to $200+ studio tours.

Reservations: Book popular restaurants weeks ahead, especially for weekend dinners. The Broad Museum’s Infinity Mirrors require advance reservations. Studio tours sell out during peak seasons. Theme parks offer cheaper tickets purchased online ahead of the visit.

Neighborhood Distances: LA’s size deceives. Santa Monica to Pasadena takes 60-90 minutes despite being just 25 miles. Downtown to Malibu requires 45-75 minutes. Plan fewer activities per day than you think possible. The journey between spots eats time.

Your Hollywood Story Starts Here

Palm trees silhouetted against pink sunsets, the Hollywood Sign glowing white on the hillside, waves crashing at Malibu’s El Matador Beach.

Studio backlots where movie magic happens, street tacos that taste better than any restaurant, endless sunshine warming your skin while ocean breezes cool the air.

The memories you create here will absolutely become the stories you’ll tell for years. Los Angeles is the perfect place for movie fans, beach lovers, families, and adventurers seeking California dreaming at its finest.

Ready to book your stay? Browse our top vacation rentals in Los Angeles today.