Ready to dive into our LA Travel Guide? This is our third trip to the City of Angels, but this time was extra special – it was our first with the kids! We spent a week here on our way back from an unforgettable Hawaiian adventure. While a week may sound short (and trust us, it is for a city like LA!), it was the perfect break before kicking off another two weeks exploring Southern California.
From LA’s iconic skyline to sunny beaches and buzzing neighborhoods, we packed in as much as we could. We’ve gathered all our favorite must-see spots, vegan-friendly food finds, tips on getting around, and even our travel budget. Each day brought new experiences, from big-name landmarks to hidden gems, and we’re excited to share it all in this guide.
Content Teaser
Quick Peek
Fact-sheet about our Los Angeles trip for our busy travelers.
Travel Time
Late March
Travel Mode
Journey (6 days)
Our Must-Sees
Santa Monica, Hollywood,
Beverly Hills
Where to stay
AirBnb
Plant-Based Food
The Wild Chive
Mobility
Rental car
Travel Budget
around €3.575 / $3,769
without air fare
Must-See Places in the City of Angels – Don’t Miss Out!
Santa Monica Pier
The iconic Santa Monica Pier is the perfect mix of beachside fun and classic California vibes. With its vintage Ferris wheel, arcade games, and ocean views, it’s a must-visit for families, friends, or solo travelers alike. Take a walk along the pier, watch street performers, or just kick back and enjoy the sunset over the Pacific—it’s an LA experience you’ll remember.
Venice Beach
Venice Beach is the perfect mix of laid-back California surf culture and vibrant local art. Stroll down the famous boardwalk, where you’ll find colorful murals, unique shops, and street performers that bring the area to life. The beach itself is ideal for relaxing or watching surfers catch waves, and don’t miss Muscle Beach, where athletes show off their strength. Venice Beach is where LA’s eclectic and creative spirit truly shines—an experience you won’t want to miss.
Griffith Observatory
Sitting high up in Griffith Park, the Griffith Observatory has some of the best views in all of LA, especially at sunset. It’s not just about stargazing – you get an amazing look over the whole city, including the Hollywood Sign. Walk through the exhibits, take in the city lights, and feel like you’re on top of the world. And the best part? It’s completely free!
Hollywood
No LA trip is complete without a visit to Hollywood. Walk along the star-studded Hollywood Walk of Fame, snap a photo with the iconic Hollywood Sign, and soak up the energy of one of the world’s most famous neighborhoods. Hollywood has a little something for everyone, from historic theaters and street performers to museums and trendy shops. It’s a place where LA’s glamour and grit come together in the best way.
Hollywood Sign
The Hollywood Sign is one of the most iconic landmarks featured in our LA travel guide, and seeing it up close is a must. You can hike one of the trails in Griffith Park for a closer look or admire it from scenic viewpoints around the city. Its towering letters are more than just a great backdrop – they’re a symbol of ambition and LA’s rich film history. For an unforgettable experience, head out at sunrise or sunset to enjoy breathtaking views of both the sign and the city skyline.
Beverly Hills
No LA travel guide is complete without a visit to Beverly Hills. Stroll down Rodeo Drive, where luxury boutiques showcase high fashion and designer brands. Beyond the shopping, Beverly Hills’ palm-lined streets are perfect for a scenic drive or a relaxing walk. With its upscale vibe and iconic spots, it’s a must-see for anyone wanting to experience LA’s glitzy and glamorous side.
Our LA Base: The Best Spot We Stayed During Our Trip
We already knew from past trips that hotels in the U.S. are often pricey for what you get, and LA was no exception. So, when planning this trip, we went straight to Airbnb, hoping for a better deal. After a lot of searching (and some sticker shock at LA prices!), we finally found a spot in Santa Monica. Not the cheapest area, but it felt right – safe, close to the beach, and just a short drive from Beverly Hills and other highlights.
Our Airbnb wasn’t anything luxurious, but it was perfect for what we needed. We loved being able to just walk down to the beach for a food stroll and hit our favorite spots without long drives. It turned out to be an ideal base for our LA adventure!
Plant-Based Eats: Best Vegan Spots in LA
LA is probably like our hometown Berlin – full of exciting, ever-evolving restaurants with new vegan options popping up constantly. So, finding vegan-friendly places in City of Angels wasn’t a challenge at all! Here are three of our favorite vegan spots across Santa Monica, West Hollywood, and Glendale:
The Butcher’s Daughter (Santa Monica and West Hollywood)
The Butcher’s Daughter is a must-visit for anyone craving fresh, healthy, and delicious vegan food, and it’s so popular that they’ve got multiple locations in LA. We visited both the Santa Monica and West Hollywood spots, and each had its own unique vibe. Known for their signature avocado toast, hearty grain bowls, and fresh-pressed juices, The Butcher’s Daughter is perfect for brunch or lunch. With two other locations in LA, you’re never too far from one of these plant-based gems.
Gracias Madre (West Hollywood)
A gem in West Hollywood, Gracias Madre serves vegan Mexican cuisine that’s bold, flavorful, and authentic. From their jackfruit carnitas to their coconut ceviche, each dish is a creative twist on traditional Mexican flavors. The vibrant ambiance and outdoor patio are also ideal for soaking up LA’s energy while enjoying an all-vegan menu.
The Wild Chive (Long Beach)
Over in Glendale, The Wild Chive brings a Southern comfort twist to vegan dining, offering dishes like buffalo mac & cheese, loaded breakfast burritos, and their famous brunch pancakes. It’s the perfect spot to indulge in hearty, flavorful vegan fare that’s satisfying and unique. With a cozy, welcoming vibe, it’s a great find for plant-based comfort food in the area.
Moving Through LA: Best Ways to Get Around the City
Early mornings became our secret weapon for getting around LA. Waking up at dawn wasn’t just for the stunning sunrises; it also helped us dodge the notorious rush-hour traffic. LA is known for its car culture, but it’s also famous for gridlock, especially during peak times when everyone’s commuting. Planning around the traffic made our days a lot easier!
We mostly stuck to the areas of West Hollywood, Santa Monica, and Glendale, which kept things simple and manageable. Parking in LA can be challenging, especially in popular areas, but we were lucky to have a resident permit for parking at our base in Santa Monica (Ask your host for that). This made it easier to park near our accommodation and save on parking fees. We decided to skip Downtown LA, where traffic can get intense, and parking’s a hassle. By focusing on these key areas, we avoided long drives and just enjoyed the journey. Starting our days early meant we got to our favorite spots faster and had more time to soak up the city!
Cost Breakdown: Our LA Trip Expenses
Accomodation
Air Bnb in Santa Monica
6nights = €2.040 / $2,051
Food & Dining
Dining around €750 / $795
incl. Coffee to go 😉
Mobility
Rental car
6days = €665 / $702
Fuel / Parking around €120 / $127
Activities
We enjoyed LA
for free!
Total Spent
around €3.575 / $3,769
without air fare
The Most Instagrammable Places in LA
LA is absolutely packed with incredible photo spots – so much so that we decided to create a separate, in-depth blog post just for our top 10 Instagram spots in LA! It was no easy task narrowing it down to just 10, given the endless iconic backdrops, vibrant murals, and stunning views all over the city. In our blog post, you’ll find all the must-visit places for capturing those unforgettable LA shots, whether it’s at classic landmarks or hidden gems. Check it out to make sure you don’t miss a single photo-worthy location!
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Visiting LA
The best time to visit is spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). The weather is mild, and you’ll avoid the summer crowds and higher prices.
Ideally, spend 5-7 days following our LA travel guide to explore the city’s top attractions and nearby areas. Even a week might not feel like enough!
Generally, yes! Most areas in our LA travel guide, like Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and West Hollywood, are safe for tourists. However, as with any big city, it’s smart to stay alert. Some neighborhoods, such as Skid Row, parts of South Central, and East LA, have higher crime rates and are best avoided, especially at night. Focus on popular, well-traveled spots, and always be mindful of your surroundings to enjoy a safe and memorable trip.
The Griffith Observatory is a highlight in our LA travel guide, offering incredible city views at sunset. Malibu’s beaches provide stunning oceanfront sunsets, and for a quieter, more scenic vibe, El Matador Beach is a must-see.
It’s possible, especially if you stick to public transport-friendly areas like Downtown, Santa Monica, and Hollywood. Rideshares are also everywhere in LA. However, having a car gives you the freedom to explore beyond the main sights and visit areas like Malibu, Griffith Park, and more at your own pace.
In busy areas, parking can be tricky. Look for paid lots, use parking apps to find spots, or plan for early mornings when there’s more availability.
Our LA travel guide highlights must-see spots like Griffith Observatory, Santa Monica Pier, Hollywood, Venice Beach, and Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. Each offers a unique LA experience!
Yes, tipping is standard in the U.S. A tip of 15-20% is expected in restaurants, and around $1-2 per drink at bars.
Beverly Hills and Hollywood Hills are popular areas for celebrity homes. You can join a guided tour or drive through the neighborhoods for a self-guided look.
Yes, spotting celebrities is possible! Popular spots include trendy cafes in West Hollywood, high-end stores on Rodeo Drive, and restaurants like The Ivy and Nobu Malibu. Sometimes, you might even see a star at events or simply out jogging in Runyon Canyon.
LA can be pricey, especially for accommodations and dining. To save, consider staying in an Airbnb, visiting free attractions, and eating at local spots rather than high-end restaurants.
Yes, but there are restrictions. Many areas, especially near airports and in certain neighborhoods, are no-fly zones. Always check local regulations before flying to avoid fines.
No, the Hollywood Sign is located within a no-fly zone. Drones are prohibited here due to its proximity to Griffith Park and Los Angeles airspace restrictions.
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