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5 Days in Los Angeles: Complete Itinerary

22 December 2022 · In: City Guide, Los Angeles, USA

los angeles itinerary 5 days

Are you looking to explore all Los Angeles has to offer in just 5 days? You have come to the right place! From the impressive Hollywood Sign to the luxurious Beverly Hills and the eclectic Venice Beach, this Los Angeles 5-day itinerary is perfect for first-timers or a week-long trip with friends. It will show you all the best things to do and walk you through everything you need to know to make your city break unforgettable.

Los Angeles is a bustling city in North America full of surprises and hidden gems. Whilst you may have heard of famous landmarks like Hollywood and Beverly Hills, you will discover in this city guide that it offers much more.

I discovered LA in October a few years ago for a short city break with a friend and my brother. It was my first time in the United States, and I came home with a head full of incredible memories!

In this travel guide, I share the perfect itinerary for a 5-day trip covering the must-see sites and top attractions so you can make the most of your time and enjoy your vacation stress-free – and without rushing. You will also find practical eco-friendly tips for responsible travel at the end. Enjoy!

My Los Angeles experience:
Duration 1 week
Dates visited Oct 23 - Oct 30
Season Autumn

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, we will receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase. For more information, read our full affiliate disclosure here.

VIEW TABLE OF CONTENTS
  • Overview: perfect 5 days in Los Angeles
  • 5 days in Los Angeles – Map
  • Detailed Los Angeles 5-day itinerary
  • Day 1 – Venice & Santa Monica
    • 1- Visit the Venice Canals
    • 2- Take photos from the Venice Pier
    • 3- Wander along the Venice Beach Boardwalk
    • 4- Stroll on the Santa Monica Pier
    • 5- Shop at the Third Street Promenade
  • Day 2 – Griffith, Hollywood & Beverly Hills
    • 1- Explore Griffith Observatory
    • 2- Hike to Hollywood Sign
    • 3- Walk the Hollywood Boulevard
    • 4- Stop at the Beverly Hills Sign
    • 5- Wander down Rodeo Drive
  • Day 3 – Marina del Rey & Malibu 
    • 1- Relax in Marina del Rey 
    • 2- Drive the Pacific Coast Highway
    • 3- Spend time in Malibu
  • Day 4 – Downtown LA
    • 1- Explore the Arts District
    • 2- Eat at the Grand Central Market
    • 3- Ramble through Echo Park
    • 4- Relax at Silver Lake
  • Day 5 – Theme parks 
  • Unforgettable experiences I recommend
  • How to get to Los Angeles
  • How to get around Los Angeles
  • Where to stay in Los Angeles for 5 days
  • Best time to visit Los Angeles
  • What to pack for 5 days in Los Angeles
  • Sustainable travel in Los Angeles
  • Los Angeles travel planning guide
  • 5 days in Los Angeles – FAQ

Overview: perfect 5 days in Los Angeles

  • Day 1: Venice & Santa Monica
  • Day 2: Griffith, Hollywood & Beverly Hills
  • Day 3: Marina del Rey & Malibu 
  • Day 4: Downtown LA
  • Day 5: Theme parks 
los angeles itinerary 5 days
Need more inspiration for your next city break? Check out this article:
Vienna Travel Guide: Perfect 3-Day Itinerary

5 days in Los Angeles – Map

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.

Detailed Los Angeles 5-day itinerary

This Los Angeles travel itinerary covers all the best things to do and see in 5 days and is perfect for travelling with family, couples or friends, whether it is your first time in the city or you have been there before.

On the other hand, remember that this itinerary is only a guide with recommendations. You are more than welcome to spend more days in the Californian city or add other stops to your trip. Los Angeles has a lot to offer: you will not run out of inspiration for activities!

READ MORE: Los Angeles City Guide: Perfect 3-Day Itinerary

Bonus tips: plan your itinerary in advance, but leave room for the unexpected. Be ready and open to adapting your plans, and be OK with missing things if necessary! 

Day 1 – Venice & Santa Monica

1- Visit the Venice Canals

Venice Canals
Venice Canals

Your first day in Los Angeles begins with the buzzing neighbourhood of Venice Beach and one of its hidden gems: the Venice canals. 

Created in 1905 by developer Abbot Kinney as part of his Venice of America, the canals are today a quiet sanctuary and community of Los Angeles composed of six waterways surrounded by modern homes.

Minutes away from the crowded boardwalk, it is a quaint and peaceful area to start your day and an easy place to explore on foot. Stroll along the canals, walk across arching wooden bridges and take in the beautiful views along the journey – before heading to the beach.

Personal note – I absolutely loved wandering around the Venice Canals! The houses were gorgeous, and I even thought that if I lived in LA one day, I would live in this area (although I can not imagine how expensive these houses are).

2- Take photos from the Venice Pier

Venice Pier
Venice Pier

Your walk continues with the Venice Fishing Pier, a long dock extending into the Pacific Ocean and a perfect spot for panoramic views of Venice Beach and its Ocean Front Walk. It is a simple thing to do, but it will give you another perspective on the city – something I recommend. 

3- Wander along the Venice Beach Boardwalk

Venice Beach Boardwalk
los angeles itinerary 5 days
Venice Beach Boardwalk

It is time to discover the famous promenade, one of the top attractions in Los Angeles! 

Stretching about a mile and a half along the Pacific Ocean, the boardwalk is a fascinating area to discover, from hundreds of street vendors and performers to street art and eclectic restaurants and bars. There is most definitely something for everyone and fun for the entire family. 

Whether you want to hit the beach, strengthen your body at Muscle Beach, admire street art and murals or skate at the Venice Skate Park, there are plenty of things to do and see on the Venice Broadwalk. Here are some of them: 

  • Enjoy a street performance 
  • Explore on a bike
  • Buy handmade arts and crafts
  • Skate the park
  • Get a henna tattoo
  • Listen to live music
  • Take plenty of photos 
  • Find the iconic suspended Venice sign
  • Uncover unique art walls

4- Stroll on the Santa Monica Pier

Santa Monica Pier
los angeles itinerary 5 days
Santa Monica Pier

After experiencing the lively atmosphere of Venice Beach and its renowned ocean walkway, it is time to head to Santa Monica, a coastal city west of downtown Los Angeles.

Your first stop will be its Pier, home to the Pacific Park amusement park, the Looff Hippodrome Carousel and the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium. Whether or not you want to hop on an attraction, it is still a lovely place to ramble, shop for souvenirs and take in breathtaking views – perfect for a romantic stroll, especially at sunset.

And if you want more sensation, go on rides such as the West Coaster and the Pacific Wheel – very touristy, but I loved it! They are also great family-friendly activities to do with children. 

You guessed it – you will not run out of ideas for things to do and see in this scenic seaside area.

5- Shop at the Third Street Promenade

A few minutes from the Pier, you will find the Third Street Promenade, an open-air pedestrian esplanade in the downtown area of Santa Monica, consisting of more than 80 retailers.

This vibrant urban neighbourhood is a shopper haven where you will find everything you need (and want), from markets with fresh produce to designer fashions. It is the perfect place to grab souvenirs for family and friends or to treat yourself.

Along your walk, you will also encounter street performers and delicious restaurants offering local ingredients and craft cocktails. Do not hesitate to stop and appreciate a well-deserved break.

End your day in Santa Monica with a magical sunset over the Pacific Ocean. Walk the waterfront or sit on a bench and watch the sun slowly setting and disappearing over the horizon (a perfect moment for couples!).

I promise you, a sunset in Los Angeles is something else and a must-do activity. You will not regret taking the time to slow down and pause for a moment. 

Day 2 – Griffith, Hollywood & Beverly Hills

The second day of your 5-day vacation in Los Angeles begins in Griffith Park, a large urban oasis spanning over 4,107 acres of natural terrain, full of beauty and historical landmarks.

From the Giffith Observatory to the Greek Theatre and the Los Angeles Zoo, this area has something for everyone and offers many activities such as hiking, biking or horse riding.

1- Explore Griffith Observatory

Griffith Observatory
los angeles itinerary 5 days
Griffith Observatory

One thing not to miss on your journey through Griffith Park is the Griffith Observatory, a building perched on the southern slopes of Mount Hollywood, offering scenic views of Los Angeles and fascinating science and technology exhibits.

As a perfect family-friendly activity in the heart of Los Angeles, here are some of the best things to do in the observatory:

  • Take in the breathtaking views of LA and Hollywood Hills
  • Visit the Samuel Oschin Planetarium
  • Look through the 12-inch Zeiss telescope
  • Discover exhibitions on captivating topics 

Personal note – the Giffith Obersavtory was one of my favourite things to do! I enjoyed walking around the building and discovering different viewpoints of the city. I also loved wandering inside and learning more about space and science. It was such a peaceful place! 

2- Hike to Hollywood Sign

Hollywood Sign
Hollywood Sign

It is impossible not to mention the famous Hollywood Sign on this 5-day itinerary. Created in 1923 as a giant advertisement for the Hollywoodland real estate industry, it is today a renowned landmark and cultural icon overlooking Hollywood on Mount Lee.

You can hike to the sign from several trails, including the following ones starting from Sunset Ranch, Bronson Canyon or the Observatory parking lot.

I started mine from Sunset Ranch, and it was great. However, come prepared and bring a hat, sunscreen and a water bottle. There is not much shade on the way up, and it is (very) hot.

Once you reach the summit, you will find yourself behind the impressive letters and have a stunning view of the city (which must be incredible at sunset). 

And if you have more time, here are some other great things to do and see in Griffith Park:

  • Visit the Autry Museum of the American West
  • Horse ride with the Sunset Ranch
  • Watch a show at The Greek Theatre

3- Walk the Hollywood Boulevard

Hollywood Boulevard
Hollywood Boulevard

Here we are, Hollywood Boulevard or the Walk of Fame! After finishing your exploration of Griffith Park, head to one of the most well-known streets in the world, filled with attractions celebrating the rich film and entertainment heritage of Los Angeles.

From the TCL Chinese Theatre to the Hollywood Wax Museum and the iconic stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, here are the best things to do and see on Hollywood Boulevard:

  • Stroll down the Walk of Fame
  • Stop at the TCL Chinese Theatre
  • Watch a movie at the Dolby Theatre 
  • Visit the Hollywood Wax Museum
  • Shop at the Ovation Hollywood

4- Stop at the Beverly Hills Sign

los angeles itinerary 5 days

Your final stop on your second day in Los Angeles will be the luxurious city of Beverly Hills, home to many Hollywood stars and upscale shopping streets. To get there, continue your walk (or drive) from Hollywood Boulevard to Sunset Boulevard (another great area to explore).  

You will then come across the Beverly Hills Sign, sitting atop a lily pad pond, surrounded by Beverly Gardens Park. It is a lovely place to walk around and take a break to recharge your batteries (and relax your legs if you have been walking). In the same park, you will also find the Electric Fountain, an art sculpture and evening lighting with decorative mosaics.

5- Wander down Rodeo Drive

Rodeo Drive
Rodeo Drive

After a well-deserved break, stroll down Rodeo Drive, a two-mile-long street featuring more than a hundred major international brands. Admire the tall palm trees and upscale boutiques, and wander the Rodeo Drive Walk of Style, a public walkway adorned with bronze plaques honouring people in the fashion and design industry. 

And if you still have energy, here are a few other things you can do in Beverly Hills:

  • Spot celebrity houses
  • Visit Greystone Mansion
  • Explore Franklin Canyon Park
  • Uncover the Spadena House

Day 3 – Marina del Rey & Malibu 

Your third day in Los Angeles will be about relaxation and unwinding, starting in Marina del Rey, a lovely coastal city with yachts, beaches and plenty of walking and biking trails.

1- Relax in Marina del Rey 

Marina del Rey 
Marina del Rey 

You will start your day at this charming harbour, Marina del Rey, a peaceful oasis in the heart of Los Angeles, offering many family-friendly activities on and by the water. 

Have fun on a paddleboard, embark on a sailboat cruise or stroll along the waterfront – there are plenty of things to do for a morning in the area, away from the noise and hectic city life.

Here are some more ideas of what you can do in Marina del Rey:

  • Walk along the coast
  • Join a wildlife-watching trip
  • Try paddleboard yoga
  • Go kayaking 
  • Hit the beach 
  • Eat in a local restaurant 

2- Drive the Pacific Coast Highway

Your second part of the day will lead you to Malibu, a beachfront town and surfer paradise located west of Los Angeles.

To reach the sunny city, you will have the chance to drive on one of the most scenic Californian roads: the Pacific Coast Highway. This state route spans over 600 miles from the north of San Fransisco to the south of Los Angeles and takes you through incredible and unforgettable landscapes – a favourite for road trips in the USA! 

Even though you will travel on the highway for a short time, you will be able to enjoy beautiful ocean scenery along the journey, so do not hesitate to stop and take in the views. 

3- Spend time in Malibu

Malibu
los angeles itinerary 5 days
Malibu

Stretching for more than 30 miles along the Pacific, Malibu is a peaceful beach town famous for its celebrity homes, surfers and pristine beaches – and where you will spend the other half of your third day.

If many parts of the town are private and exclusive, there is still plenty of Malibu charm for visitors to access and enjoy. And if surfing is your thing, you have definitely come to the right place! 

For the most thrilling waves, you will find Surfrider Beach next to the Malibu Pier. And if you prefer to sunbathe and relax, head to Zuma Beach, attracting locals and families year-round. 

Finally, if you prefer spending time in nature and spotting wildlife, discover the Point Dume at the north end of Malibu, providing an ideal perch for watching birds and migrating grey whales in winter.

Here are a few more fun and unique things to do in Malibu:

  • Explore El Matador rock formations
  • Join a Malibu wine tour
  • Hike through Malibu Creek Park
  • Taste delicious seafood
  • Uncover the Escondido Falls
  • Visit Getty Villa
  • Enjoy a sunset on the beach

Day 4 – Downtown LA

1- Explore the Arts District

Your 5-day Los Angeles itinerary continues with the Art Districts, a neighbourhood on the east end of Downtown LA, home to many creatives in green tech, architecture and entertainment.

Once an industrial zone and residence of an urban artist community in the 1970s, the Art Districts has recently re-emerged as a hip hub for creatives of all types. It is today a fascinating place for locals and visitors alike to explore, from the most exciting places to dine to numerous galleries and plenty of daytime attractions for adults and children.

Start your day with a street art tour, admire the work of up-and-coming artists at the creative hub, taste street food at a food truck restaurant and immerse yourself in a burgeoning urban atmosphere.

2- Eat at the Grand Central Market

We can not mention the Grand Central Market for your next stop and place to eat in Downtown LA! As a paradise for food lovers, the market has been a landmark since 1917, bringing together the cuisines and cultures of Los Angeles through fantastic vendors and events.

Whether you are a meat eater, seafood enthusiast or vegan at heart – there is something for everyone. Take the time to explore and enjoy 🙂 

3- Ramble through Echo Park

Continue your itinerary through Downtown Los Angeles with Echo Park, a district bordered by Silver Lake to the west and Chinatown to the east, home to many burgeoning artists, writers and musicians. This area is excellent to ramble through and is fully accessible on foot.

Whether you want to spend a relaxing time at Echo Park Lake or a fun afternoon at Dodger Stadium, there is plenty to do in this historic and diverse neighbourhood. Here are some ideas:

  • See the local art
  • Explore Echo Park Lake with a pedal boat
  • Hike in Elysian Park
  • See a Dodgers game 

4- Relax at Silver Lake

The next and final stop on your fourth day in Los Angeles is Silver Lake, a hipster district teeming with street arts, artisanal coffee shops, indie music venues, and trendy bars and shops. The area also includes illustrations of modernist architecture and a reservoir enveloped by a popular walking path with a dog park and a lush field. 

Although you will not find many famous sights or attractions, Silver Lake is still an incredible place to explore, with plenty of exciting things for families, couples and friends. Climb the secret stairs through hillside houses, relax by Silver Lake Reservoir or shop along Sunset Junction – you will not run out of ideas for what to do. Here are a few more activities:

  • Relax by the Silver Lake Reservoir
  • Shop around Sunset Junction
  • Stroll through the farmers’ market
  • Walk up the Silver Lake stairs

Day 5 – Theme parks 

Warner Brothers

Your last day in Los Angeles! On this fifth day, you will have some fun and end your LA itinerary with one or more theme parks.

As the centre of the film and television industry, you can imagine that Los Angeles contains many iconic studios such as Paramount Pictures, Universal and Warner Brothers – all of which offer behind-the-scenes tours. And it is the perfect activity for families and cinema addicts! 

I did the Warner Bros. Studio Tour, and it was incredible. It was great to see locations and sets of well-known films and series, such as Spider-man, Batman or Friends! 

  • Paramount Pictures – 2-hour tour
  • Warner Bros. Studios – 1-hour guided + 2-hour unguided
  • Universal Studios: 1-hour tour

Universal Studios is also a theme park, and you can do the Studio Tour with your park admission – unlike Paramount or Warner Bros. 

I did the Universal Studios theme park during Halloween – it was so fun! But as we had special night tickets, we could not do the Studio Tour. 

If you are looking for a more thrilling activity, head to 6 Flags Magic Mountain, an amusement park home to the most exciting (and craziest) roller coasters I have ever encountered! It is a bit outside Los Angeles (35 miles – 35 minutes without traffic) but easy to get to by car or taxi. And it will be a great day of fun before leaving LA.  

6 Flags Magic Mountain
los angeles itinerary 5 days

I hope you enjoyed your five days in Los Angeles! 

Unforgettable experiences I recommend

How to get to Los Angeles

The best way to get to Los Angeles will depend on where you come from and your budget, but there are many options to reach the Californian city.

BY PLANE

One of the quickest ways to get to Los Angeles is by plane. If you are travelling from a distant city or another country, you will likely arrive at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), one of the busiest airports in the world, which serves as a major gateway. You will find many domestic and international flights.

If you are flying domestically, you may also consider other airports in the area, such as Burbank Bob Hope Airport (BUR) or Long Beach Airport (LGB).

BY CAR

Another way to get to Los Angeles faster is by car. The city is accessible via several major highways, including Interstate 5 (I-5) from the north, Interstate 10 (I-10) from the east and Interstate 15 (I-15) from the northeast.

Depending on your starting point, you can also use local roads and highways to reach Los Angeles. Keep in mind that traffic can be heavy, so plan accordingly.

BY TRAIN

One of the most eco-friendly ways to get to Los Angeles is by train. Amtrak offers train services to Los Angeles from various locations, including the Pacific Surfliner, Southwest Chief and Coast Starlight routes. You will find the main train station, Union Station, in downtown LA.

BY BUS

Finally, the most affordable option for getting to Los Angeles is by coach. It is a great way to reach the city if you are exploring the USA on a budget, but it may take longer. Long-distance bus services, such as Greyhound and Megabus, operate routes to Los Angeles from various cities.

Shop the printable travel itinerary

Create your dream city break & live a unique experience in LA.

printable travel itinerary
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How to get around Los Angeles

TRAVEL BY CAR 

The best way to get around Los Angeles is by car, as the city is vast and not easily accessible on foot. You can easily rent one at the airport but try to book it ahead of time. 

I recommend using Rentalcars.com to search and compare which car is best for you. From affordable to luxury, they make it easy to choose and have a great selection of rental agents.

Renting a car will allow you to move freely around the city. However, be aware of the terrible traffic! To make the most of your time, spend each day in a specific area to minimise travel distance – as outlined in this article. In addition, use a GPS to help you save time when navigating the city. 

USE PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Using public transport is another way to explore Los Angeles. The Los Angeles Metro is easy to use and consists of buses, trains, and subways. And for a better experience, buy a reusable TAP Card, available at vending machines in bus or subway stations.

Even though the LA public transit system is not the best, it can still get you around faster than walking. And if you travel between distant neighbourhoods, the Metro Rail will help you avoid congested highways and get directly to your destination. 

HOP ON A TAXI OR RIDE-SHARE

Finally, getting around by taxi or ride-share is another ideal way to explore Los Angeles. To schedule a pick-up, download the Curb app or use popular ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft, which are easily accessible and relatively inexpensive.

However, do not forget that LA traffic gets jammed up quickly during rush hour, so give yourself extra time when travelling and reaching attractions at peak times.

Personal note – My brother had a car when I joined him in LA, which made it easy to move around and helped us maximise our time. Plus, since there were three of us, we could use the carpool lane on the freeways, which made commuting even faster. However, when my brother was busy, my friend and I were using Uber – I did not speak English at the time and could not understand how to use public transport. Therefore, the Uber app was the easiest way to get to our destination. 

los angeles itinerary 5 days
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Where to stay in Los Angeles for 5 days

THE BEST NEIGHBOURHOODS IN LOS ANGELES

Are you looking for the best place to stay whilst on your 5-day trip in Los Angeles? Here is an overview of the top neighbourhoods in the Californian city:

  • Hollywood: the best neighbourhood for first-timers due to its central location and buzzing attractions. From there, you can discover the Walk of Fame and access many other LA areas. 
  • Santa Monica: the best area to stay in Los Angeles for families seeking tranquillity and easy access to the beach. You will also find nearby plenty of family-friendly activities, shops and restaurants. 
  • Downtown LA: the best place to stay in Los Angeles for visitors on a budget or short trips. As a commercial epicentre, it is well-connected and contains everything you need for quick transit.
  • Silver Lake: a popular area for experiencing local vibes, offering a mix of trendy restaurants, dynamic nightlife, quirky boutiques and independent cafés – perfect for soaking in the local culture.
  • Beverly Hills: for those looking for elegant hotels, high-end boutiques and world-class restaurants, Beverly Hills is the place for you. It is the best area for a luxurious stay.
  • West Hollywood: the best district in Los Angeles for nightlife, vibrant atmosphere and thriving community. This lively hub is perfect for living the best of LA and connecting with locals.
  • Venice Beach: if beach life and bohemian vibes are what you love, look no further than Venice Beach. With pristine beaches, street performers and art shops, the area is ideal for a peaceful stay.

I suggest using Booking.com to search, compare and reserve your accommodation, and if possible, select a place with flexible cancellation – in case of emergency or if things do not go as planned. 

And if you can, prioritise an eco-friendly hotel or guesthouse! Use Bookdifferent or Ecobnb to help you decide.

READ MORE: Where to Stay in Los Angeles: 8 Best Areas

MY EXPERIENCE

My friend and I booked an Airbnb in advance in the Palms area, which was perfect! A young couple, Kylie and Andrew, welcomed us and were so kind. They gave us lots of advice and made us feel at home. The apartment was also conveniently located near Venice Beach and Santa Monica, which made getting around easy. (Unfortunately, Kylie & Andrew’s Airbnb is no longer available).

los angeles itinerary 5 days
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Best time to visit Los Angeles

The best times to visit Los Angeles are from March to May and September to November when the temperatures are mild, the air is more breathable, and there are fewer crowds.

Rest assured, Los Angeles enjoys sunny and warm weather all year round! So do not worry too much. The season you choose will mainly depend on the activity you want to do and what you want to experience. 

Personal note – I visited Los Angeles at the end of October during Halloween – it was so much fun! However, the weather was still incredibly sunny and warm, which surprised me (I even struggled to hike to Hollywood Sign and nearly collapsed). Regarding the crowds, I did not find them excessive, even in popular places. 

los angeles itinerary 5 days
Planning a perfect winter getaway? Check out this article:
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What to pack for 5 days in Los Angeles

Although each suitcase will look different to everyone depending on when you are going and for how long, here are some city trip essentials that you might find helpful: 

  • Comfortable walking shoes (to keep up with your itinerary)
  • A reef-safe sunscreen (to protect your body) ⇢ check out my favourite sunscreen
  • A good backpack (to access your stuff anytime) ⇢ check out my favourite backpack
  • Phone and tablet (to listen to music or use as GPS)
  • Camera (to capture your incredible vacation) 
  • All chargers (indispensable) ⇢ check out these portable chargers
  • Passport, driving licence, and any necessary visas
  • Credit card and cash (to bring home souvenirs)
  • A hat (to avoid sunburn) 
  • Travel books and guides (to discover the best of the city)
  • A reusable water bottle (to stay hydrated on the go) ⇢ check out my favourite bottle
  • Notebook or travel diary (to record your thoughts) ⇢ check out my favourite notebook

IMPORTANT – take care of your belongings and watch out for pickpockets, especially in busy tourist areas such as Hollywood.

Check out this page for more inspiration on eco-friendly products & gear.

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Prepare for your dream city getaway and travel responsibly 🌿

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Sustainable travel in Los Angeles

Sustainable travel means exploring the world whilst being aware of your surroundings and having a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the places you visit.

READ MORE: 10 Eco-Friendly Things to Do in Los Angeles

Being a responsible traveller in Los Angeles is possible! Here are some sustainable tips for reducing your carbon footprint:

  • Book direct flights (which require less fuel than indirect flights) and offset your carbon footprint. But, do not use carbon offsetting as a complete solution. Combine it with other sustainable practices, like avoiding single-use plastic on the plane and mindfully packing your suitcase for your green holiday. 
  • Select an eco-friendly accommodation. It is not always easy to determine whether a hotel has eco-conscious practices, but try to look on their website for green credentials and ask questions. You can also use Bookdifferent or Ecobnb to help you decide.
  • Use public transport as much as possible. Los Angeles transportation network is not the best, but you can easily access the main highlights and attractions with buses, trains or subways. So take advantage of these services to reduce your impact! And if you prefer to rent a car, choose an electric or hybrid. Not only will you save money on gas, but you will be doing the local air a favour! And if you are staying near the coast, do not hesitate to rent a bike.
  • Eat at local restaurants that use produce from the area and emphasise organic and sustainability. It will contribute to the local economy and reduce your carbon footprint by supporting restaurants where food does not come from long distances.
  • Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun, especially during outdoor activities. But be careful about the cream you choose. Zero-waste and reef-safe sunscreens are an excellent alternative to chemical creams and are incredibly beneficial for many reasons: they protect the environment by reducing plastic waste and preserve your health by eliminating harmful components.
  • Always respect the local heritage. Treat people and their surroundings with respect. Sustainable travel is not only about the environment but also about the local communities. So, always be respectful, smile and immerse yourself in the local vibe.
sustainable travel checklist
More inspiration for your green adventures:
  • Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
  • 15 Travel Books to Inspire Your Next Eco-Adventure
  • Best Ecotourism Activities Around the World
  • 10 Best Reusable & Eco-Friendly Travel Mugs
los angeles itinerary 5 days
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How to Plan the Ultimate (Eco-Friendly) Road Trip

Los Angeles travel planning guide

🚑 Should I buy travel insurance to travel to Los Angeles?
Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your 5 days in Los Angeles stress-free with one of my favourite providers, Nomad Insurance.

💧 Can you drink the water in Los Angeles?
Yes, tap water is safe to drink all over Los Angeles. However, I also recommend travelling with the UltraPress Purifier Bottle, a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated.

🚗 Is it easy to rent a car in Los Angeles?
Yes, renting a car in Los Angeles is easy. However, note that the traffic can be terrible! But it is also a great way to explore the surroundings. I recommend booking yours with Rentalcars.com – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.

🏨 How to book accommodation in Los Angeles?
The best way to book your accommodation in Los Angeles is with Booking.com – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable guesthouses to luxury hotels.

✈️ What is the best site to buy a flight to Los Angeles?
I recommend booking your plane with Skyscanner. It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.

5 days in Los Angeles – FAQ

Where is Los Angeles?

You will find Los Angeles in California, the most populous state in the US and the third most expensive by area. The language is American, and the currency is the dollar.

Is Los Angeles expensive?

The answer is, unfortunately, yes! LA is one of the most expensive cities in the world. But, if you are mindful of your expenses and prepare your budget in advance, you will have no problem enjoying this incredible city.

When is the best time to visit Los Angeles?

The best times to visit Los Angeles are from March to May and September to November when the temperatures are mild, the air is more breathable, and there are fewer crowds. I went at the end of October during Halloween, which was fun!

How long do you need to visit Los Angeles?

I recommend spending 5 to 7 days in Los Angeles to see all the best attractions without rushing. Remember that LA is a vast city, and landmarks are far from each other, so plan accordingly and be OK to adapt your schedule.

What is the time difference between LA and the UK?

The UK is 8 hours ahead of Los Angeles.

los angeles itinerary 5 days

And you, have you ever visited Los Angeles or would you like to go one day? 
Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡
Lucie

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By: Lucie · In: City Guide, Los Angeles, USA

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