So, you’ve got 5 days in Los Angeles—and you want to make every single one count?
From palm-lined streets and world-famous beaches to movie magic and hidden gems, LA has a lot going on.
But don’t worry—this 5-day Los Angeles itinerary is designed to help you hit the iconic must-sees without the overwhelm.
Whether it’s your first time in the City of Angels or you’re returning to soak up more California sunshine, this guide breaks down exactly what to do each day for the perfect mix of sightseeing, chill time, and local vibes.
Get ready to experience everything from Santa Monica sunsets to secret rooftop views and food spots worth the hype.
Day 1: Venice & Beverly Hills
Explore Venice, Beverly Hills, and iconic LA art.
Morning: Discover Venice
- Venice Canals
- Shopping on Abbot Kinney Boulevard
- Venice Beach Boardwalk
Optional: Lunch at Great White
Afternoon: Iconic Beverly Hills
- Beverly Hills Sign
- Rodeo Drive
- The Beverly Hills Hotel
- Will Rogers Memorial Park
Optional: Stroll through Bel Air
Evening: Melrose Avenue & Art
- Melrose Umbrella Co. (Optional drinks)
- Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
- Optional Dinner: Providence or Gjelina
Day 2: Hollywood
Dive into film, fame, and stunning city views.
Morning: Hollywood Film Culture
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour (or Universal Studios alternative)
- Hollywood Museum (optional)
Afternoon: Hollywood Must-Sees
- Walk of Fame
- Dolby Theatre
- TCL Chinese Theatre
- Optional: Hollywood & Highland, shopping & lunch
Evening: Sunset & Stars
- Griffith Observatory
- Hollywood Sign hike or viewpoint
- Mulholland Drive scenic drive
- Optional Dinner: Gwen or Saffy’s
Day 3: Downtown
Morning: Historic DTLA Walking Tour
- Bradbury Building
- The Last Bookstore
- Grand Central Market
- Angel’s Flight Railway
Afternoon: Modern & Classic LA
- The Broad
- Walt Disney Concert Hall
- Olvera Street / El Pueblo
- Arts District
Optional: Lunch at Found Oyster or République
Evening: Runyon Canyon Hike or Relax
- Sunset hike at Runyon Canyon
- Optional Dinner: Firefly
Day 4: Santa Monica & The Coast
Morning: Coastal Drive
- The Getty Villa
- Drive through Malibu
- Optional: Stop in Oxnard or Santa Barbara (longer day option)
Afternoon: Iconic Beachside LA
- Santa Monica Pier & Third Street Promenade
- Lunch at Tocaya Organica (or The Lobster)
Evening: Venice Revival
- Venice Canals (if missed Day 1)
- Drinks at The Misfit or Shangri-La Rooftop Bar
- Optional Dinner: Jitlada
Day 5: LA Behind the Scenes
Film studios, vintage cinemas, and one last taste of LA.
Morning: The Entertainment Industry Up Close
- Universal Studios or Warner Bros. Studio Tour (if not yet visited)
Afternoon: Explore Melrose & Mid-City
- Shopping on Melrose Avenue
- Lunch at Lunetta or Fala Bar
Evening: Iconic LA Ending
- Screening at New Beverly Cinema
- Optional Dinner: Dining at Horses
- Stay suggestion: The Maybourne Beverly Hills
Bonus: Optional Day Trips & Add-Ons
- Disneyland Day Trip
- Amusement Parks (Six Flags, Universal)
- Nature & National Parks
- Nearby cities: Pasadena, Long Beach, Santa Barbara
Travel Tips for Visiting Los Angeles
Best Time to Visit Los Angeles
LA is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is between March–May or September–November, when the weather is warm, the crowds are smaller, and hotel rates are more reasonable.
How to Get Around LA
Los Angeles is massive—and public transport is limited.
For the most flexibility, renting a car is ideal, especially if you’re planning day trips or hitting multiple neighborhoods.
Rideshares (Uber/Lyft) work well too, and the Metro can help with short inner-city routes.
Where to Stay in LA
Your base depends on what kind of trip you want. Santa Monica is great for beach lovers, West Hollywood offers central access and nightlife, while Downtown LA is perfect for urban explorers.
Choose based on what’s nearby on your itinerary to save time in traffic.
And there you have it—the perfect way to spend 5 unforgettable days in Los Angeles.
With a balance of bucket-list landmarks, coastal escapes, and hidden local spots, this itinerary makes the most of your time without feeling rushed.
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