Welcome to Los Angeles, the City of Angels!
You might think you need a week here, but a packed three-day trip is actually perfect to get a real feel for the city.
It forces you to see the best stuff without getting overwhelmed by the size.
You’ll leave with a solid sense of what makes LA so special.
This itinerary is built from my own trips.
We’ll cover the iconic landmarks you can’t miss, like the Griffith Observatory and Santa Monica Pier.
We’ll also find incredible food spots, from taco stands to trendy markets.
I’ll share the best beaches for relaxing and people-watching, plus a few hidden local gems to make your trip truly unique.
Day 1: Hollywood & Classic LA
Morning: Hollywood Walk of Fame
Kick things off with a morning on Hollywood Boulevard.
It’s touristy, sure, but it’s a rite of passage.
I spent a good hour just walking, trying to find my favorite celebrities’ stars on the Walk of Fame.
The real highlight for me was the TCL Chinese Theatre.
Seeing the actual handprints and footprints of movie legends in the concrete is way cooler than you’d think.
Right next door, you can pop into the Dolby Theatre, where the Oscars happen.
Taking a tour and standing in that massive auditorium really makes you feel the magic of the movies.
Midday: Griffith Observatory & Hollywood Sign.
After the Hollywood buzz, head up to Griffith Park.
The observatory itself is this beautiful art deco building with free entry and insane views of the city.
But the best part is the perspective you get of the Hollywood Sign.
I took the trail that starts just behind the observatory.
Looking back at the city sprawling below you and the famous sign right there is a truly iconic LA moment you won’t forget.
Afternoon: Explore Sunset Boulevard & Melrose Avenue murals.
Next, it’s time to hit the streets.
Cruise down the legendary Sunset Boulevard, just to feel its vibe.
Then, park and explore Melrose Avenue. This place is a blast.
It’s like a giant, ever-changing outdoor art gallery.
I walked down a few blocks and every wall was covered in incredible, colorful murals.
It’s the perfect place to take fun photos.
Between the art, you’ll find tons of unique vintage shops and trendy boutiques, making it the ideal spot for some casual afternoon exploration.
Evening: Dinner in West Hollywood
As the sun sets, make your way to West Hollywood for dinner.
I found an amazing patio restaurant on Santa Monica Boulevard with great people-watching.
After you eat, you have to experience the world-famous Sunset Strip.
The energy here at night is electric.
You can just walk along the strip, see the iconic comedy and music venues like the Whisky a Go Go, and maybe even catch a live show.
It’s the perfect way to cap off your first classic LA day.
Day 2: Beaches & Coastal Vibes
Morning: Santa Monica Pier & Beach.
Start your day at the Santa Monica Pier.
It’s this classic, fun spot that feels like a carnival dropped right on the beach.
I loved hearing the sounds of the roller coaster and game bells mix with the ocean waves.
Walking to the end of the pier gives you an awesome view back at the coastline and the mountains.
After that, I just chilled on the wide, sandy beach for a bit.
It’s the perfect, clean California beach to dip your toes in the water and feel that morning sun.
Midday: Bike or walk Venice Beach Boardwalk
Next, rent a bike and cruise the path down to Venice Beach.
The transition from Santa Monica’s polish to Venice’s pure, funky energy is instant and so cool.
The boardwalk is a total spectacle.
I locked up my bike and just walked, watching the incredible skaters at the skate park and the super strong people working out at the original Muscle Beach.
The whole place is a parade of street performers, unique shops, and wild characters.
Afternoon: Drive to Malibu (El Matador Beach)
In the afternoon, hop in the car for one of the best drives ever.
Heading north on the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) with the windows down and the ocean right beside you is pure magic.
Your destination is El Matador Beach in Malibu.
I spent a couple of hours here just exploring the sea caves and watching the waves crash against the rocks.
It feels a million miles away from the city.
Evening: Sunset views + dinner by the ocean.
For your evening, you’re already in the perfect place.
Find a restaurant right on the PCH in Malibu for dinner.
I grabbed a table on a patio with a direct view of the water.
Watching the sun melt into the Pacific Ocean while you eat is an experience you won’t forget.
The colors are incredible, and it’s the most peaceful and romantic way to end a day of coastal adventures.
It’s the ultimate California dream evening.
Day 3: Culture, Art & Downtown LA
Morning: The Getty Center or The Broad Museum.
Choose your own art adventure for the morning.
If you pick The Getty Center, you take this cool tram up a hill to a stunning campus of white buildings.
The art inside is world-class, from Van Gogh to Rembrandt, but the views of LA from the gardens are just as incredible.
It feels peaceful and totally worth the trip.
If you go with The Broad downtown, you’re in for a modern treat.
The building itself looks like a spaceship.
Inside, I saw mind-bending contemporary art, including that famous Infinity Mirror Room.
Midday: Walt Disney Concert Hall + stroll through Grand Park.
After the museum, walk over to the Walt Disney Concert Hall.
You don’t need a ticket to appreciate the architecture.
I just wandered around its crazy, shiny metal curves, it’s like a giant silver flower.
Right next door is Grand Park, and It’s a cool, urban green space that runs downhill.
I walked through the pink benches and fountains all the way to LA City Hall.
It’s a great way to see some of Downtown’s most important buildings on a relaxing stroll.
Afternoon: Lunch at Grand Central Market, explore Little Tokyo or Arts District murals.
Now you’ll be hungry, so head to Grand Central Market.
This place is a food lover’s dream with a century of history.
The energy is amazing with so many different smells and sounds.
I got some life-changing tacos and a fresh juice. From there, you can explore a unique neighborhood.
Little Tokyo is full of cute shops and great snacks.
Or, head to the Arts District to see massive, colorful murals covering entire buildings.
Both areas show off a creative side of LA far from the tourist spots.
Evening: Rooftop drinks/dinner
End your trip with a bang.
Find a rooftop bar or restaurant downtown for the evening.
After a day of art and exploring, it’s the perfect reward.
I had an early dinner at one as the sun started to set.
Watching the sky turn orange and then seeing the whole city light up beneath you is an epic feeling.
The twinkling lights of the skyscrapers and the Hollywood sign in the distance is the best way to say goodbye to Los Angeles.
Conclusion
And that’s a wrap on an amazing three days in LA!
Looking back, this trip gave me the perfect mix of everything.
You got a taste of the Hollywood glamour, soaked up the sun on those famous beaches, and dove into the city’s amazing art and food scenes.
It’s this balance that makes Los Angeles so special, it’s not just one thing, but a whole collection of different vibes and adventures.
Of course, LA is huge, and there’s always more to see.
If you have more time, you could easily spend another day exploring places like the natural beauty of the Santa Monica Mountains or the studios in Burbank.
But for a first trip, these three packed days will leave you with incredible memories and a real feel for the City of Angels.