Los Angeles – the city of stars, palm trees, and sun-soaked beaches – combines Hollywood glamour, vibrant neighborhoods, and iconic coastal moments. This 48-hour guide will help you experience the city’s highlights, perfectly timed for sightseeing, food, culture, and authentic L.A. experiences. Two days may be short, but with good planning, you can hit most of the must-sees.
If you have more time, check out my full guide: “A Week in Los Angeles: Your Perfect 7-Day Itinerary with Highlights & Tips.”
Kickstart your day with a hearty breakfast at Duke’s Cafe – pancakes and omelets provide the perfect fuel for exploring. Enjoy a cozy atmosphere and friendly service to set the tone for your L.A. adventure.
Start with the classic: stroll down the Hollywood Boulevard and find the stars of your favorite celebrities. Consider visiting the TCL Chinese Theatre, one of the world’s most iconic cinemas where many premieres take place. The Dolby Theatre, home of the Oscars, is also nearby.
Head to Melrose Avenue for lunch or a stroll past trendy boutiques, street art, and the famous “Pink Wall” – a must for Instagram-worthy photos.
Just a few minutes away, Gracias Madre serves vegan Mexican dishes in a stylish setting – think tacos, bowls, and refreshing drinks. Alternatively, grab a snack at the nearby Farmers Market.
Next, explore The Grove, an open-air shopping paradise, and its historic Farmers Market, offering everything from fresh produce to tacos and donuts.
Drive or walk through the famous streets of Beverly Hills. Palm-lined boulevards, luxury villas, and designer boutiques exude Hollywood glamour. Don’t miss the “Beverly Hills” sign at Beverly Gardens Park for a perfect photo stop.
End the day with a classic L.A. experience: Griffith Observatory. Enjoy panoramic views of the Hollywood Sign, Downtown, the coast, and the sunset. The observatory is open until 10 PM and offers free exhibits on astronomy, planets, and space. Don’t miss the public telescopes for a chance to stargaze – an unforgettable experience when paired with sunset.
West Hollywood comes alive in the evening. Recommended dinner spots:
After dinner, check out the Sunset Strip for live music at venues like The Roxy or Whisky a Go Go, rooftop bars, and trendy lounges – the perfect way to experience L.A. nightlife.
Option 1 – Runyon Canyon: Start with breakfast at The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker. Pancakes, avocado toast, and coffee provide energy for a hike with views of Downtown and the Hollywood Sign.
Option 2 – Getty Center: For a calmer start, try Cha Cha Matcha in Beverly Hills. Enjoy matcha lattes, smoothies, or pastries before exploring the Getty Center’s art and architecture.
Runyon Canyon: A light to moderate trail with stunning views of the city and ocean – perfect for active travelers.
Getty Center: One of the world’s top museums, showcasing masterpieces by Van Gogh and Rembrandt, plus beautiful gardens and panoramic city views. Admission is free; parking is about $20 per car (Uber is a convenient alternative). Plan 2–3 hours.
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art is the West Coast’s largest museum. Don’t miss the iconic Urban Light installation for unforgettable photos.
Grab healthy snacks at Erewhon Venice or a sweet treat at Salt & Straw before heading to the beach.
Immerse yourself in the colorful chaos of Venice Beach – street artists, skaters, and Muscle Beach make it a unique L.A. experience.
Walk along the famous pier, enjoy the rides, street performers, and shops – perfect for photos and sunset views.
End your L.A. weekend with authentic street food: tacos from a food truck or a visit to In-N-Out Burger at South Sepulveda Blvd, a must for burger lovers.
Tip: For a full list of recommended food spots, see my “Los Angeles Food Guide: Street Food, Cafés & Restaurants You Can’t Miss.”
Here are some tours that can be perfectly integrated into your 48 hour Los Angeles itinerary:
Charming boutique hotel in Hollywood, steps from the Walk of Fame, Dolby Theatre, and TCL Chinese Theatre. Bright rooms, a courtyard, lobby bar, and free parking make it a perfect 48-hour base.
Getting to the hotel from the airport: From Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), it takes about 30–40 minutes by car to reach The Prospect Hollywood, depending on traffic. Taxis, Uber, and Lyft are all reliable options. Depending on your route and personal preferences, another hotel in Los Angeles might suit you better – it’s best to check out my article “The Best Hotels in Los Angeles: Affordable, Central & Perfect for Your Stay.”
Getting Around:
Parking:
All recommended spots are marked on this Google My Maps, making it easy to navigate your 48-hour L.A. itinerary. Save it to your phone for quick access.
Our conclusion: In 48 hours, you can experience the best of Los Angeles – from Hollywood classics and trendy neighborhoods to relaxing beach moments. This compact itinerary ensures you see the city’s highlights without feeling rushed.
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