If you’ve only got 48 hours in Los Angeles, don’t worry—you can still pack in a whole lot of adventure. From hiking to the iconic Hollywood Sign and exploring celebrity-approved streets, to relaxing at Venice Beach and discovering cultural gems, this 2-day Los Angeles itinerary will help you experience the best of the City of Angels.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a quick getaway, here’s how to make the most of two unforgettable days in Los Angeles.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Los Angeles?
Los Angeles is blessed with sunshine almost all year round, making it a year-round destination. However, the sweet spots for visiting are March to May and September to November. During these months, the weather is mild and the crowds are fewer, making it ideal for sightseeing without sweltering heat or peak-season pricing.
How to Get to Los Angeles
You’ll likely arrive at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). It’s a busy hub, so give yourself plenty of time to navigate the terminals.
Transportation options:
- FlyAway Bus: $10 one-way to major points in LA like Union Station or Hollywood.
- Uber or Lyft: $20–$40 to downtown LA (depending on traffic).
- Rental Cars: Convenient if you’re planning to explore widely, but do account for gas and parking.
Where to Stay in Los Angeles
Choosing where to stay depends on the kind of vibe you’re after:
- Hollywood: Great for first-timers and central to major attractions. Expect to pay $150–$250 per night.
- Santa Monica: Perfect if you want beachside relaxation with easy access to LA hotspots. Rates here range from $200–$300 per night.
Getting Around the City
LA is a sprawling metropolis. While public transportation has improved, many still prefer to rent a car.
- Car rental: Around $50/day plus fuel and parking.
- Metro Pass: $7/day for unlimited rides on buses and trains.
- Rideshares: Readily available and useful for short hops around the city.
Day 1: Classic LA – Views, Icons & Glamour
☀️ Morning: Griffith Observatory & Hollywood Sign
Start your day at Griffith Observatory, perched on Mount Hollywood inside Griffith Park. It’s one of the best viewpoints in Los Angeles and was famously featured in La La Land. Entrance is free, though parking costs $10/hour. For fewer crowds, visit right after sunrise.
Insider tip: Grab breakfast beforehand at Trails Café, a cozy gem within Griffith Park. Their avocado toast ($10) and freshly brewed coffee ($3) are the perfect fuel before a hike.
Hiking to the Hollywood Sign
Want to get closer to the Hollywood Sign? You’ve got three trail options:
- Mount Hollywood Trail: Easiest and starts near the Observatory (3 miles roundtrip).
- Canyon Drive Trail: Moderate 6.5-mile loop that passes Adam West’s Batcave.
- Cahuenga Peak (Wisdom Tree Trail): Shorter but steep and more rugged.
Alternatively, for a more relaxed photo op, Lake Hollywood Park offers a fantastic view with minimal effort.
⭐ Midday: Hollywood Walk of Fame & Melrose Avenue
No visit to LA is complete without a stroll along the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Spanning 15 blocks of Hollywood Blvd and three blocks of Vine Street, it features over 2,700 stars honoring icons from film, TV, and music.
Use the Walk of Fame website to find your favorite celebrities and skip the hunt!
Next, head over to Melrose Avenue—a hotspot for trendy boutiques, colorful murals (hello, pink wall!), and lively people-watching. Expect to spend more time here than planned—shopping, snacking, and snapping pics.
🌮 Lunch Stop: Gracias Madre
Just a short walk from Melrose, Gracias Madre serves up delicious plant-based Mexican fare. Try their jackfruit tacos ($18) with a refreshing agua fresca ($5). The outdoor patio here is a vibe—perfect for relaxing between shopping stops.
🌃 Evening: Urban Light & Rodeo Drive
As the sun dips, head to Urban Light, the popular outdoor exhibit at LACMA. Made up of 202 restored vintage street lamps, it’s a stunning spot—especially at night when it’s all lit up. The best part? It’s completely free.
Then, cruise over to Beverly Hills and stroll down Rodeo Drive, the most luxurious shopping street in LA. Even if you’re not buying designer threads, the people-watching and atmosphere are worth it.
Dinner at Spago
Wrap up your night with dinner at Spago, a fine-dining spot by celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck. The smoked salmon pizza ($34) is a must-try, followed by the decadent chocolate soufflé ($16). Reserve ahead, and ask for patio seating—it’s ideal for a stylish LA evening.
Day 2: Chill Coastal Vibes & Culture
🌊 Morning: Venice Beach
Start Day 2 at Venice Beach, one of LA’s most iconic coastal neighborhoods. From the famous Muscle Beach to quirky street performers and bustling boardwalks, there’s never a dull moment here.
Walk along the 2.5-mile Ocean Front Walk, catch a basketball game, or rent a bike for $20 and cruise down the scenic coastal trail.
Breakfast at The Butcher’s Daughter
Located a few blocks from the beach, The Butcher’s Daughter (aka “Juice”) is a trendy breakfast spot. Their smoked fish plate ($18) with a fresh bagel and juice ($6) is the perfect way to start your day.
🖼️ Midday: Getty Center
Next, head to the Getty Center, a cultural highlight that blends art, architecture, and breathtaking gardens. You’ll find everything from Van Gogh paintings to stunning city views. Admission is free, though parking costs around $20.
If you want to dive deeper into the exhibits, consider a guided tour—they’re informative and well worth it.
Insider Tips for Visiting Los Angeles
- Start early: LA traffic is real. Begin your day early to avoid long waits and secure better parking.
- Use Google Maps for live transit & traffic updates.
- Stay hydrated: Especially if you’re hiking or exploring outdoors.
- Pack layers: Mornings and evenings can be surprisingly cool, even in summer.
- Book reservations for popular restaurants and skip the lines.
