3 Days in Los Angeles 2025: The Perfect LA Adventure Itinerary
Discover Los Angeles in 3 perfect days: Hollywood glamour, beach vibes, and cultural hotspots. Complete itinerary with timings, costs, and insider tips.
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What's the perfect 3-day itinerary for LA?
Spend Day 1 exploring Hollywood and Beverly Hills, Day 2 at beaches from Santa Monica to Venice, and Day 3 discovering downtown LA and Griffith Observatory. Budget $70-250 per day for attractions and meals.
Related questions:
- • How much does 3 days in LA cost?
- • What's the best area to stay in LA?
- • Is 3 days enough for LA?
Your 3-Day LA Adventure
TL;DR: Explore LA's highlights in 3 action-packed days covering 20 attractions with a budget of €$180-$600 per person.
- 1 Day 1 focuses on Hollywood glamour and Beverly Hills luxury ($50-150 in activities)
- 2 Day 2 explores LA's beach culture from Santa Monica to Venice ($40-120 total cost)
- 3 Day 3 combines downtown's cultural revival with Griffith Observatory views ($60-180 budget needed)
- 4 Rent a car or use rideshare - public transit limited compared to other cities
- 5 Stay in West Hollywood or Santa Monica for central access
- 6 Total 3-day budget: $180-550 per person including all attractions and meals
Los Angeles offers an incredible 3-day journey through the entertainment capital of the world, where Hollywood glamour meets beach culture and diverse neighborhoods create a unique urban tapestry. From the iconic Hollywood Sign to Santa Monica's beaches and world-class museums, this carefully crafted itinerary balances must-see attractions with authentic LA experiences. With daily costs ranging from $70 to $250 per person, Los Angeles accommodates all travel styles. The best time to visit is year-round, with September through November offering the warmest weather and clearest skies. This itinerary covers approximately 120 kilometers of exploration across the sprawling metropolis, perfectly paced for discovering the City of Angels.
Your 3-Day LA Itinerary
Day 1: Hollywood & Beverly Hills Glamour
Entertainment & Luxury
Day 1
Immerse yourself in Hollywood's movie magic and Beverly Hills' luxury, experiencing LA's most iconic entertainment sights
Total Cost
USD50-150
Walking Distance
5 km
Activities
3 stops
Duration
Full Day
Today's Highlights
🌟 Pro Tip: Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for today's 5 km journey!
Day 1 Schedule
Morning (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM)
Duration: 3.5 hours
Hollywood Walk of Fame
Stroll along Hollywood Boulevard finding your favorite stars among the 2,700+ celebrity plaques. The TCL Chinese Theatre area has the highest concentration of famous names
💡 Tip: Start at Hollywood & Highland for easy parking. Street performers expect tips for photos
TCL Chinese Theatre
See hand and footprints of Hollywood legends in the forecourt of this iconic 1927 movie palace. The architecture alone is worth the visit
💡 Tip: Morning tours less crowded. IMAX movies offer the full experience
Hollywood Sign Viewpoint
Get the perfect Hollywood Sign photo from the Hollywood & Highland Center or drive up to Griffith Observatory area for closer views
💡 Tip: Lake Hollywood Park offers great views with parking. Mornings have better light
🍽️ Lunch Recommendation
In-N-Out Burger • California Fast Food Icon
💰 USD8-12 per person
Must try: Double-Double Animal Style, Animal Fries, Neapolitan Shake
Afternoon (2:00 PM - 6:00 PM)
Duration: 4 hours
Beverly Hills & Rodeo Drive
Window shop (or splurge) on the world's most famous luxury shopping street. Even if not buying, the people-watching and car-spotting are entertainment
💡 Tip: 2-hour free parking in public garages with validation. Via Rodeo has European charm
Greystone Mansion & Gardens
Explore the grounds of this 1928 mansion featured in countless films. The formal gardens offer stunning city views and peaceful escape from busy streets
💡 Tip: Free admission to grounds. Mansion tours only on special dates
Sunset Strip Drive
Cruise the legendary Sunset Strip passing iconic music venues, comedy clubs, and billboards. Stop for photos at colorful Paul Smith pink wall
💡 Tip: Traffic heavy 4-7 PM. Parking difficult - consider driving through
Evening (6:30 PM onwards)
Duration: 3+ hours
Griffith Observatory Sunset
Catch sunset from this Art Deco landmark offering free telescopes and spectacular views of LA basin and Hollywood Sign
💡 Tip: Arrive 1 hour before sunset for parking. Free admission but planetarium shows cost extra
🍽️ Dinner Recommendation
Republique • French-Californian Bistro
💰 USD25-45 per person
Must try: Charcuterie, Roast chicken, Seasonal tart
Stunning space in historic building
🌙 Evening Options
- • The Comedy Store - legendary stand-up venue $20-30
- • Sunset Strip live music venues $15-40
- • Rooftop bar at Mama Shelter $12-18 cocktails
🚇 Getting Around
transport: Car rental recommended ($40-60/day) or Uber/Lyft
parking: Valet common at restaurants ($8-15), street parking difficult
timing: Allow extra time for traffic between areas
🏨 Where to Stay: West Hollywood central for nightlife, Beverly Hills for luxury, Hollywood proper is touristy
Day 2: Beach Day: Santa Monica to Venice
Beach & Outdoor Culture
Day 2
Experience LA's legendary beach culture from Santa Monica Pier's amusements to Venice Beach's bohemian boardwalk
Total Cost
USD40-120
Walking Distance
8 km
Activities
3 stops
Duration
Full Day
Today's Highlights
🌟 Pro Tip: Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for today's 8 km journey!
Day 2 Schedule
Morning (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM)
Duration: 3.5 hours
Santa Monica Pier
Start at LA's iconic pier with its solar-powered Ferris wheel, historic carousel, and carnival games. The beach below offers classic California sand and surf
💡 Tip: Arrive before 10 AM for easier parking. Weekdays much less crowded than weekends
Santa Monica Beach & Third Street Promenade
Walk the wide sandy beach or rent bikes for the beach path. Third Street Promenade offers shopping and street performers just blocks inland
💡 Tip: Beach bike path extends 22 miles. Rentals available at multiple shops
🍽️ Lunch Recommendation
The Albright • Fresh Seafood
💰 USD15-30 per person
Must try: Fish & chips, Lobster roll, Clam chowder
Budget option: Bay Cities Deli for godmother sandwich $12
Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:30 PM)
Duration: 3.5 hours
Venice Beach Boardwalk
Experience the carnival atmosphere of Venice Beach with street performers, artists, vendors, and LA's most colorful characters along the oceanfront walk
💡 Tip: Weekends are chaotic but most entertaining. Keep valuables secure
Venice Canals
Escape the boardwalk chaos in the peaceful Venice Canal Historic District. These 1905 canals offer charming bridges and million-dollar homes
💡 Tip: Enter at Washington Blvd. Perfect for photos without crowds
Abbot Kinney Boulevard
Browse this trendy street called 'coolest block in America' with boutiques, galleries, and cafes. Very different vibe from beach boardwalk
💡 Tip: First Fridays have food trucks and extended hours
Evening (6:00 PM onwards)
Duration: 3+ hours
Venice Beach Sunset
Return to the beach for spectacular Pacific sunset. The drum circle at sunset on weekends creates a unique Venice atmosphere
💡 Tip: Bring layers - beach gets chilly after sunset even in summer
🍽️ Dinner Recommendation
Gjelina • California Mediterranean
💰 USD20-40 per person
Must try: Butterscotch pot de crème, Wood-fired pizzas, Vegetable dishes
Trendy Venice hotspot
🚇 Getting Around
beach Transport: Parking challenging - arrive early or use rideshare
between Beaches: Walk, bike, or short Uber between Santa Monica and Venice
evening Return: Have rideshare apps ready - limited parking at night
🏨 Where to Stay: Santa Monica more upscale and safer, Venice more bohemian and affordable
Day 3: Downtown Culture & Studio Magic
Culture & Entertainment
Day 3
Explore downtown LA's cultural renaissance and choose between studio tours or museum masterpieces
Total Cost
USD60-180
Walking Distance
5 km
Activities
3 stops
Duration
Full Day
Today's Highlights
🌟 Pro Tip: Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for today's 5 km journey!
Day 3 Schedule
Morning (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM)
Duration: 3.5 hours
Grand Central Market
Start your day at this 1917 food hall featuring dozens of vendors from tacos to Thai. The neon signs and bustling atmosphere capture LA's diversity
💡 Tip: Eggslut for breakfast has lines but worth it. G&B Coffee for excellent brew
Downtown Art Walk
Explore the Arts District with its murals, galleries, and converted warehouses. The street art changes constantly, making each visit unique
💡 Tip: Second Thursday of month has gallery openings. Start at Hauser & Wirth
The Broad Museum
See contemporary art including Warhol, Koons, and Kusama's Infinity Mirror Rooms in this architecturally stunning free museum
💡 Tip: Reserve free timed tickets online. Infinity Rooms require separate signup
🍽️ Lunch Recommendation
Bestia • Italian Industrial-Chic
💰 USD20-35 per person
Must try: Charcuterie, Bone marrow, Pizza alla nduja
Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:30 PM)
Duration: 3.5 hours
Option 1: Universal Studios Tour
Go behind the scenes at the world's largest working movie studio. The tram tour shows actual sets and movie magic demonstrations
💡 Tip: Express pass worth it on busy days. Download app for wait times
Option 2: Getty Center
Visit this architectural marvel with incredible art collection, gardens, and views. The tram ride up the hill builds anticipation
💡 Tip: Free admission but parking $20. Garden tour at 2:30 PM recommended
Option 3: LACMA
LA County Museum of Art features the iconic Urban Light installation and diverse collections from ancient to contemporary
💡 Tip: Free for LA County residents after 3 PM weekdays
Evening (6:00 PM onwards)
Duration: 4+ hours
Hollywood Bowl (Seasonal)
If visiting May-September, catch a concert at this iconic outdoor amphitheater. Bring a picnic for the full LA experience
💡 Tip: Lease events allow BYOB picnics. Stack parking easier than self-park
🏨 Where to Stay: Downtown offers newest hotels and Metro access but requires transport to beaches
Complete Budget Breakdown
Complete 3-day costs per person in Los Angeles, excluding accommodation. All prices in USD for 2025.
Budget Traveler
💰$60-80 per day
per person per day
Daily Breakdown
Money-Saving Tips:
- • Beaches and hiking trails are free
- • Food trucks offer great value meals
- • Happy hours common 4-7 PM
- • Some museums free certain days
3-Day Total
$180-240
Attractions
$60-90 total
Meals
$90-120 total
Transport
$30-45
Extras
$20-35 (parking, tips)
Mid-Range
💎$100-150 per day
per person per day
Daily Breakdown
Money-Saving Tips:
- • Studio tours worth the cost
- • Try trendy restaurants for lunch (cheaper)
- • Validate parking when possible
- • Groupon has attraction deals
3-Day Total
$300-450
Attractions
$90-150 total
Meals
$150-210 total
Transport
$60-90
Extras
$50-80 (shopping, parking)
Luxury
👑$200+ per day
per person per day
Daily Breakdown
Money-Saving Tips:
- • Private studio tours available
- • Valet parking everywhere
- • Helicopter tours of city
- • Premium dining scene thriving
3-Day Total
$600+
Attractions
$240-360
Meals
$240+
Transport
$120-180
Extras
$100+ (shopping, valet, tips)
💡 Smart Money-Saving Tips
Beaches, Griffith Observatory, and The Broad are free
Food trucks and strip mall restaurants offer authentic cheap eats
Happy hours widespread - usually 4-7 PM with deals
Validate parking at shops/restaurants when possible
Getty Center free admission (just pay parking)
✨ Worth the Splurge
Studio tour (Universal or Warner Bros) - $100+ for behind-scenes magic
Getty Center or LACMA - $20-25 for world-class art
Sunset dining with view - $50+ for quintessential LA
Concert at Hollywood Bowl - $40+ for iconic venue experience
Note: All prices are estimates for 2025 and exclude accommodation. Actual costs may vary by season and booking timing. Prices shown in EUR.
Essential Planning Tips
Getting Around LA
Car is king in LA - rent one ($40-60/day) or budget for Uber/Lyft. Traffic is constant; always allow extra time. Metro limited but improving - good for downtown. Avoid 405 freeway when possible. Download Waze for real-time routing.
Best Times to Visit
September-November has best weather and clear skies. May-June can be cloudy ('June Gloom'). Winter mild but can rain. Summer hot inland, perfect at beaches. Avoid Academy Awards week (February) for crowds.
Parking Strategy
Valet common and sometimes cheaper than self-parking. Beach parking fills early on weekends. Downtown parking garages often cheapest option. Many restaurants validate. Read street signs carefully - parking tickets expensive.
Reservations Essential
Book popular restaurants 1-2 weeks ahead minimum. Studio tours can sell out in summer. Hotels during awards season need months advance booking. Even trendy brunch spots often booked solid weekends.
Neighborhood Safety
Tourist areas generally safe. Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Manhattan Beach very safe. Be aware in Hollywood at night. Avoid Skid Row area downtown. Don't leave anything visible in cars. Beach areas can have theft.
LA Culture Tips
Casual dress everywhere except high-end restaurants. Everyone's in 'the industry' - be respectful. Wellness culture huge - juice bars everywhere. Tipping: 18-20% standard, valet $3-5. Everything takes longer than expected.
Customize Your Itinerary
Customize your 3 days based on interests and travel style
Movie Buffs
- ✓ Warner Bros VIP Studio Tour (Day 3)
- ✓ Academy Museum of Motion Pictures (Day 1)
- ✓ Paramount Pictures Tour (Day 2)
- ✓ Hollywood Forever Cemetery film screening (evening)
Additional cost: $100-200 for tours
Beach Lovers
- ✓ Malibu beaches and Getty Villa (Day 1)
- ✓ Manhattan/Hermosa Beach (Day 2)
- ✓ Catalina Island day trip (Day 3)
- ✓ Surf lessons at Venice or Malibu
Additional cost: $50-150 for activities
Foodies
- ✓ LA Food Tour downtown (Day 3)
- ✓ Farmers Market at The Grove (Day 1)
- ✓ Little Tokyo and Koreatown (Day 2)
- ✓ Jonathan Gold's restaurant recommendations
Additional cost: $60-120 for tours and meals
Art & Culture
- ✓ Getty Villa in Malibu (Day 2)
- ✓ MOCA and Geffen Contemporary (Day 3)
- ✓ Arts District gallery hopping (Day 1)
- ✓ Walt Disney Concert Hall tour
Additional cost: $40-80 for admissions
Families with Kids
- ✓ Disneyland day trip (full Day 2)
- ✓ California Science Center (Day 3)
- ✓ Aquarium of the Pacific (Day 1)
- ✓ Universal Studios focus on rides
Additional cost: $150-300 for theme parks
Outdoor Adventures
- ✓ Runyon Canyon hike (Day 1 morning)
- ✓ Malibu Creek State Park (Day 2)
- ✓ Manhattan Beach bike path (Day 3)
- ✓ Griffith Park extensive hiking
Additional cost: $20-40 for equipment rental
When to Visit: Seasonal Guide
spring
March-May • 60-75°F, perfect temperatures
Highlights:
- • Wildflower blooms
- • Less smog
- • Baseball season starts
Events:
- • LA Marathon (March)
- • LA Times Festival of Books (April)
summer
June-August • 70-85°F beaches, 90°F+ valleys
Highlights:
- • Beach season peak
- • Outdoor concerts
- • Long days
- • Theme park weather
Events:
- • LA Pride (June)
- • Hollywood Bowl season
- • Beach volleyball
fall
September-November • 70-85°F, best weather of year
Highlights:
- • Clear skies
- • Perfect temperatures
- • Fire season views
- • Award season begins
Events:
- • LA County Fair (Sept)
- • AFI Film Festival (Nov)
winter
December-February • 55-70°F, occasional rain
Highlights:
- • Award season buzz
- • Whale watching
- • Snow in mountains
- • Fewer tourists
Events:
- • Rose Parade (Jan 1)
- • Award shows (Jan-Feb)
- • Chinese New Year
Frequently Asked Questions About 3 Days in LA
1 Is 3 days enough to see Los Angeles?
Three days allows you to experience LA's major highlights including Hollywood, beaches, and downtown, but the city's sprawling nature means you'll need to be selective. You'll get a taste of different neighborhoods while seeing iconic sights. A week would allow deeper exploration of LA's diverse areas.
2 Do I need a car in Los Angeles?
While LA is improving public transit, a car makes exploring much easier due to the city's spread-out nature. Alternatives include ride-sharing (budget $30-50/day) or staying in walkable areas like Santa Monica. Some areas like downtown and Hollywood are becoming more transit-friendly.
3 What's the best area to stay for a 3-day visit to Los Angeles?
West Hollywood offers central location and nightlife ($150-300/night). Santa Monica provides beach access and walkability ($200-400/night). Downtown has newest hotels and improving dining ($100-250/night). Beverly Hills offers luxury but requires driving everywhere ($300-600/night).
4 How much money do I need for 3 days in Los Angeles?
Budget $180-240 for basic costs ($60-80/day), $300-450 for comfortable travel ($100-150/day), or $600+ for luxury ($200+/day). This covers all meals, attractions, and transport but excludes accommodation. Add $100-400 per night for hotels depending on area and style.
5 When is the best time to visit Los Angeles?
September-November offers the best weather with clear skies and warm temperatures. Winter (Dec-Feb) is mild but can have rain. Spring is beautiful but May-June often has morning clouds. Summer is perfect for beaches but inland areas get very hot.
6 Is Los Angeles safe for tourists?
Tourist areas like Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, and West Hollywood are generally very safe. Use normal city precautions: don't leave valuables in cars, be aware in Hollywood at night, avoid certain downtown areas after dark. Beach areas can have property theft - watch belongings.
Is 3 days enough to see Los Angeles?
Do I need a car in Los Angeles?
What's the best area to stay for a 3-day visit to Los Angeles?
How much money do I need for 3 days in Los Angeles?
When is the best time to visit Los Angeles?
Is Los Angeles safe for tourists?
Ready for Your LA Adventure?
Continue Planning Your LA Trip
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About the Author
David Thompson
A digital nomad since 2015, David has road-tripped across every US state and explored the diverse landscapes of North America and Oceania. His background in tech and remote work makes him the go-to expert for digital nomad destinations. Based between Denver and Melbourne, he focuses on outdoor adventures and urban exploration with a laptop-friendly twist.