Day 1: Arrival & Discover Downtown

After checking into your hotel (see also: The Best Hotels in Los Angeles), the best way to start your LA adventure is with a relaxed stroll through Downtown, soaking in the city’s vibrant energy.

A great starting point is the futuristic Walt Disney Concert Hall, whose gleaming stainless-steel façade is already impressive from the outside. Right next door is The Broad, a contemporary art museum showcasing masterpieces from Warhol to Basquiat. Feeling hungry? Don’t miss a stop at the Grand Central Market, where street food from around the world awaits. For a little adventure, take a ride up the hill on the historic Angels Flight funicular.

Food Highlights in Downtown: Dalian’s Café, Urth Caffé and BurgerShop

Top Accommodation in Downtown: citizenM Los Angeles Downtown Hotel

Day 2: Hollywood – Glamour, Stars & History

No trip to Los Angeles is complete without Hollywood! Start your day at the Walk of Fame and keep an eye out for the stars of your favorite celebrities. Right next door, you’ll find the Dolby Theatre, home of the Oscars, and the TCL Chinese Theatre with its famous handprints and footprints.

In the afternoon, make your way to The Grove, one of the city’s most beautiful outdoor shopping destinations. Just next door is the historic Farmers Market, where over 100 stalls offer specialties from around the world – a perfect spot for a culinary pit stop.

For a truly spectacular view, hike up to the Griffith Observatory later in the day. From here, you can see not only the stars but also the iconic Hollywood Sign and a breathtaking sunset over the LA skyline. Later in the evening, cruise along the legendary Sunset Strip or enjoy skyline views from a rooftop bar, like at the 1 Hotel West Hollywood.

Food Highlights in and around Hollywood: Duke’s Cafe (breakfast/lunch), The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker (café), Gracias Madre (Mexican cuisine), Roots Indian Bistro (Indian cuisine)

Day 3: Santa Monica & Venice Beach

Today, it’s time to hit the coast. Start in Santa Monica with a stroll along the iconic Santa Monica Pier – Ferris wheel, street performers, and the fresh ocean breeze included. Afterwards, take a detour to the Third Street Promenade for some shopping. From there, you can leisurely bike over to Venice Beach, where colorful street performers, the famous Muscle Beach, and trendy boutiques along Abbot Kinney Boulevard await. At sunset, Venice and Santa Monica are some of the most beautiful spots in the city – a perfect blend of boho vibes, surf culture, and classic California lifestyle.

Food Highlights in Santa Monica & Venice: Erewhon Venice (a healthy market with snacks), Salt & Straw (iconic ice cream), El Primo Taco (street food tacos), Shoop’s Delicatessen (cozy café)

Day 4: Art & Culture in LA

Today, dive deeper into the cultural side of Los Angeles. A must-see highlight is LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art) with its iconic “Urban Light” installation. Art lovers should also visit The Getty Center – even the hilltop location with panoramic city views is impressive on its own. For modern art, head to MOCA, and don’t miss the vibrant street art in Downtown’s Arts Districts. For more ideas, check out our guide: Art & Culture in Los Angeles.

If quirky art is your thing, the Watts Towers in South LA are a fascinating, hand-crafted monument of steel and mosaic. For a more relaxed cultural day, visit the Huntington Library & Gardens in Pasadena, where botanical gardens, art collections, and historic libraries await. Learn more in our guide: 12 Secret Spots in Los Angeles You Won’t Find in Every Guidebook.

Food Highlights: If you need a break in between, grab lunch at the Grand Central Market or the trendy MOOD. Café.

Day 5: Day Trip to Malibu

After the bustling days in the city, Malibu offers the perfect change of pace. Start your day at the Malibu Pier with breakfast at the Malibu Farm Café and enjoy the view of surfers catching waves. Afterwards, explore the boutiques and galleries at Malibu Country Mart. For pure nature, take a trip to Point Dume with its dramatic cliffs and the hidden Pirate’s Cove Beach. To relax, head to Surfrider Beach or El Matador Beach – two very different, yet equally stunning coastal spots. In the evening, enjoy a seaside dinner at the famous Nobu Malibu or a more laid-back meal at Paradise Cove Beach Café. For more inspiration, check out our guide:: A Day in Malibu

Culinary Highlights in Malibu: Malibu Food Guide

Day 6: Activities & Excursions in LA

Today is all about adventure! You could book a guided photo tour through Hollywood that takes you to the best spots – perfect for Insta-worthy moments. Culture enthusiasts will love a walking tour through Downtown, including a ride on the historic Angels Flight Railway. If you’re up for some activity, a guided hike to the Hollywood Sign is a must – start your day with a trek through Runyon Canyon.

In the afternoon, consider a detour to Beverly Hills. Palm-lined streets, the Beverly Gardens Park, the glamorous Rodeo Drive, luxurious mansions, and the chance to get a behind-the-scenes look at celebrity homes make for a classic LA experience. Discover The Most Famous Palm Tree Streets in LA

Alternative: If you’re craving action, spend the day at one of LA’s many theme parks, such as Universal Studios, where you can enjoy a full day of rides, shows, and roller coasters.

More info: Check our guide: Los Angeles Activities & Tours.

Day 7: Foodie Day & Last Highlights

End your week with LA’s culinary delights.

Breakfast: Shoop’s Delicatessen (Venice) or MOOD. Café
Lunch: In-N-Out (near LAX) or BurgerShop (Downtown)
Snack: Salt & Straw ice cream or street food trucks like Sabores LA
Dinner: Finish with a stylish meal at Heirloom Pizzeria

For more foodie inspiration: See our Los Angeles Food Guide.