Los Angeles is huge and car-friendly, so the trick is to group nearby sights together and avoid criss-crossing the city. Two days gets you the beaches, the Hollywood icons and one great viewpoint.
Day 1 — Beaches & the Westside
Start at Santa Monica Pier and walk or cycle the beach path down to Venice Beach for the boardwalk and murals. In the afternoon, head to the Getty Center — world-class art, gardens and a sweeping view over the city (entry is free; you pay only for parking).
Day 2 — Hollywood & downtown
See the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the TCL Chinese Theatre, then get the classic Hollywood Sign view from Griffith Observatory, which also has superb city and night-sky views. If time allows, explore downtown's Grand Central Market and the gleaming Walt Disney Concert Hall.
Getting around
- LA is spread out — a car or ride-share is usually the practical choice.
- Traffic is heaviest 7–10am and 3–7pm; plan drives around it.
- The Metro rail covers some key routes (downtown ↔ Hollywood ↔ Santa Monica).
Worth knowing
Distances are deceptive — what looks close can be 40 minutes away, so pick one area per half-day. Theme parks (Disneyland, Universal) are full-day trips on their own; slot them in only with a third day.
Want an LA itinerary with hotels and a sensible route mapped out? Our travel concierge plans it around your dates.
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