Ready to tackle the City of Angels in just four days? Well, buckle up because we’ve crafted the ultimate 4-day Los Angeles itinerary that balances beach vibes with a hint of movie magic. Whether you’re chasing sunsets in Santa Monica, snapping a selfie with a star on the Walk of Fame – or pretending to be one in Beverly Hills – this guide will keep your trip packed with iconic highlights.
So get get ready for a whirlwind LA adventure that’s fun, fabulous and a little bit extra – just like you.
In This Article
Getting around in Los Angeles
Renting a car
Let’s face it: navigating Los Angeles without a car is like trying to eat spaghetti with chopsticks – doable, but unnecessarily complicated. LA is a big city, and public transportation here is more of a supporting actor than the star of the show.
To make the most of this 4-day Los Angeles itinerary, you’re going to need wheels. What’s a trip to LA without getting stuck in at least one legendary traffic jam? Think of it as your very own “Fast & Furious” adventure, minus the high-speed chases and questionable decisions.
Check out prices right here:
Affordable parking in Los Angeles
Parking in Los Angeles is a game of patience, luck and sometimes a little bit of creative maneuvering. There are a couple of tips to keep your sanity (and car) intact.
Tip #1: Street parking is an option, but always check signs carefully – LA is notorious for confusing parking restrictions that could land you a ticket.
Tip #2: Opt for parking garages near popular attractions to save time, even if it costs a few extra bucks. To really up your parking game, download SpotHero – a lifesaver for booking parking spots in advance. This is my go-to app whenever I’m heading to Downtown LA.
On-street Parking 
On-street Parking Biking around Beverly Hills Hollywood
Where to stay in Los Angeles
Picking the perfect place to stay in LA is almost as important as snapping that perfect selfie by the Hollywood Sign. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your stay, without blowing your entire travel budget.
Tip #1: Stay near the Red Metro Line. It’s your lifeline to hopping between Hollywood, Universal Studios and Downtown LA without the hassle of driving (or having to park).
Tip #2: If you want to save some cash, consider staying just outside of DTLA. Neighborhoods like Koreatown or Echo Park offer cool, budget-friendly options and are still close enough to all the action.
Tip #3: Look for hotels with free parking. In a city where parking costs can add up faster than your Uber Eats order, this little perk can save you some serious cash. Plus, it means you’ll have more budget left for food trucks and souvenirs!
Tip #4: Don’t stay near the beaches. I know a beachfront apartment sounds great but the majority of the action is located more inland. Even though the stretch of highway between the beaches and DTLA is only 15 miles long, it can take up to two hours in rush hour.
Tip #5: For the love of God, I hate hostels. People just don’t seem to give a shit they’re making noises in the middle of the night. But if your group is large enough and you can occupy an entire room, it’s worth considering. There are some really nice ones in LA.
Here are some of my favorite hotels:
The Ultimate 4-Day Los Angeles Itinerary
Let’s Rock & Roll
Day 1: Downtown LA / The Beaches
Your first day in LA will give you both city life and beach vibes. This is the perfect combination if you’ve just had a long day of traveling or if you want an easy day without too much driving.
MORNING – DTLA WALKING TOUR
Start your day in Downtown LA by diving into a self-guided walking tour. Kick things off at Grand Central Market, an indoor food market showcasing about 40 multicultural vendors. Want an epic breakfast? Head over to Eggslut and order their signature “Slut”.
Next, walk over to City Hall. It’s a government building, but tourists can enter through the East entrance. After passing a metal detector and signing in with a police officer, you can take the elevator up to the top floor for free panoramic views of the city.
From there, walk through Grand Park, a perfect spot to chill by the fountains with a Starbucks in hand and to get your feet wet. Then, move on to the architectural marvel that is the Walt Disney Concert Hall, LA’s answer to the Sydney Opera House. On weekdays, you can sign in and take an audio tour but I tend to just walk around the outside and take in the stunning construction from a distance.
Finally, take a ride down Angels Flight Railway so you don’t have to walk down the steps. It’s the world’s shortest railway, but during a walking tour every step counts! From there, you’ll head back to the car. Vroom vroom – off you go!
AFTERNOON – BEACH, PLEASE
Spend your afternoon soaking up the California sunshine at Santa Monica Beach – one of LA’s most iconic coastal spots. Start with a leisurely walk along the Santa Monica Pier, where you can ride the Ferris wheel, grab a churro and snap some pics of that classic “End of Route 66” sign.
Once you’ve had your fill of pier fun, it’s time to hit the boardwalk. Rent a bike from one of the many rental spots along the beach and cruise down the Ocean Front Walk toward Venice Beach. Along the way, you’ll pass funky street performers, hot guys on Muscle Beach and colorful murals.
For a little side adventure, make a short detour to the serene Venice Canals – a peaceful escape with picturesque bridges and calm waterways. It’s the perfect way to wrap up an afternoon of beachside bliss before heading back to Santa Monica just in time for a sunset view.
EVENING
Catch the sunset on Santa Monica Pier and then head back to your hotel. Depending on traffic, you’ll be driving anywhere between 45 minutes and 2 hours. Do not leave the beach between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM because you will be stuck on the highway. Depending on the time, you could get dinner at Santa Monica Place Shopping Mall. It has great options.
Santa Monica Pier 
Santa Monica Ferris Wheel Santa Monica Boardwalk Santa Monica Pier
Day 2: Walk of Fame / Beverly Hills / LACMA
Your second day in LA is all about glamor, photo ops and soaking up the quintessential Hollywood scene. Are you ready for you closeup?
MORNING – SHOOTING STARS
Start with a walk down the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame, where you’ll find the stars of your favorite actors, musicians and even fictional characters. The Walk of Fame takes up 15 blocks but you’ll really only want to visit one small part of it, spanning from the “5-dollar Store” to the McDonalds. Beyond that, you’re wasting time so keep those references in mind.
Snap some pics with at TCL Chinese Theater, where legendary celebrity have cast their handprints in concrete. Try to match your hand size with a legend or two. Small hands? No worries – try Tom Cruise!
Don’t forget to walk up the iconic staircase of The Dolby Theater – the home of the Oscars. Look around and see the names of all the “Best Picture” winners scattered around. Make your way up, and you’ll enter Ovation Hollywood – a cosy shopping mall with loads of lunch options. California Pizza Kitchen is my personal favorite!
FIND PARKING
Parking garage at the Dolby Theater – 6801 Hollywood Blvd
AFTERNOON – GLITZ & GLAM
Head to Beverly Hills for that Instagram-worthy shot in front of the famous Beverly Hills Sign. After you’ve captured the perfect photo, stroll down Rodeo Drive where window-shopping is the name of the game. Even if your wallet isn’t Kardashian-level, the luxury vibes are on point. You might even spot a celebrity casually shopping for their next designer piece.
FIND PARKING
Metered parking at 1201 – 1299 Park Way, Beverly Hills
EVENING – LACMA
After your glam Beverly Hills experience, it’s time to hit West Hollywood – or WeHo to the locals. This neighborhood is a hub of fun and excitement. For pop culture lovers, a visit to LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art) is a must. Snap some artsy shots at the Urban Light installation, a collection of vintage street lamps that has become one of LA’s most Instagrammed spots.
Honestly, I’m not big into museums but this one has some interesting pop art exhibits. And the Urban light Installation is stunning both before & after dark.
FIND PARKING
Self-parking at the museum
Urban Light Installation Rodeo Drive Beverly Hills Sign Rodeo Drive
Day 3: Universal Studios
Day 3 is dedicated to my favorite place on earth. When I first visited Universal Studios at the age of 15, I cried happy tears. Seeing the movie magic up close & personal made me realize I wanted to work in that industry. And now I am! Anyway, back to you.
Universal Studios is part theme park, part working movie lot. There are no loop-the-loops, as most of the rides are dark rides (meaning they contain animation, sound, music and special effects). If you’re prone to motion sickness, you might want to come prepared with some over-the-counter meds.
ALL DAY – MOVIE MAGIC
Experiencing the park in one day is doable – if you’re well-prepared. There are two levels: an upper lot and a lower lot. My main piece of advice is: get there early. Check the opening times and get there at least half an hour earlier. It takes a while to make your way to the entrance. You can park on-site or save 30 bucks and take the Metro Red Line, which close by the park.
Depending on when you’re going, wait times can get long. Download the Universal Studios Hollywood app for live updates.
When in doubt, follow this order of rides:
- Start with the Studio Tour & cruise through iconic film sets. It takes a little over an hour and is a great start of your day.
- Enter the Wizarding World of Harry Potter & ride “The Forbidden Journey”. Skip “Flight of the Hippogriff” until later, as it’s not worth the wait.
- Head to the lower lot and ride Transformers, Jurassic World & Revenge of the Mummy. In that order.
- Visit Super Nintendo World while you’re in the lower lot. It’s spectacular, so take your time. Don’t wait in line for the ride as it’s the newest addition and wait times can be up to 3 hours long. Check it out later if and when wait times are shorter.
- Head back to the upper lot and get in line for The Simpsons Ride.
- See the Waterworld show. I dare you to sit in the wet zone. This show is mindblowing!
All the other rides are fun additions, but this is your absolute must-do checklist. Follow this plan and you’ll have an epic day full of adventure!
EVENING – MINI VEGAS
After exiting the park, you’ll have time to explore the Universal City Walk. It’s a buzzing little street full of restaurant, gift shops, live music and movie theaters. I always compare it to a mini Las Vegas Strip, with less nudity. It’s a great spot to get dinner if you’re still hungry!
FIND PARKING
Self-parking in an on-site parking structure
Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour Waterworld Stunt Show Super Nintendo World
Day 4: Studio Tour / Hollywood Sign / Griffith Observatory
It’s your last day in LA, but we’re not slowing down just yet. So grab your shades, charge your phone and let’s close out your 4-day Los Angeles itinerary with a bang.
MORNING – LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION
Kick off your day with a studio tour – because what’s a trip to LA without a behind-the-scenes peek at all the movie magic? It’s a great addition to your earlier visit to Universal Studios as you’ll walk through real sound stages, explore famous sets (Friends, anyone?) and maybe even spot a celeb or two. There are a few studio tours out there, so check out my post to help you decide which one suits you. Whether you go for Warner Bros., Paramount, or Sony, you’re in for a treat.
AFTERNOON – HOLLYWOOD HILLS
After you’ve gotten your film fix, it’s time to hit up one of LA’s most iconic spots: the Hollywood Sign. You didn’t seriously think I’d hold out on you, did you? Here’s the pro tip: skip the tourist traps and head to Canyon Lake Drive. It’s a hidden gem, giving you some of the best views of the sign without the need for a 10-mile hike or elbowing through crowds for a photo.
Pack some snacks and relax while you gaze at those legendary letters. It’s the perfect spot for a laid-back afternoon and yes, your Instagram is going to love it. Walk uphill past the park for a clear view of the sign.
FIND PARKING
On-street parking at Canyon Lake Drive next to Lake Hollywood Park
EVENING – STARS & SUNSET
Now, for the grand finale. You can’t leave LA without experiencing a sunset at Griffith Observatory. This place has killer views of the entire city: Hollywood, Downtown and the mountains.
The drive up there always takes longer than expected because of traffic and parking is dramatic. Do not under any circumstances take your car there. You’ll end up parking at the bottom of the mountain and hiking up or missing sunset while driving circles around the place. It’s happened to me twice. Your best bet is to park near the Greek Theater as shown on this map and Uber up or take the bus. It will save you so. much. trouble. If the nearby Greek Theater has an event scheduled, you might consider going another day.
Before the sun dips, take some time to explore the Griffith Observatory itself. Line up to peek through one of the huge telescopes or watch an actual Tesla Coil throwing its lightning-like discharges to the walls.
As golden hour approaches, grab your spot and settle in. Watch as the sky turns into an epic canvas of pinks and oranges, with the city lights flickering on below. It’s one of those “wow” moments that’ll make you realize why people fall in love with LA. There’s no better way to wrap up your 4-day Los Angeles itinerary than with that breathtaking view – it’s a literal high point.
FIND PARKING
I literally just told you
Griffith Observatory Sunset Griffith Observatory Griffith Observatory View from the Observatory
The Ultimate 4-Day Los Angeles Itinerary
And just like that, you’ve conquered LA in four action-packed days! From chasing sunsets to dodging dinosaurs, snapping selfies with the Hollywood Sign and sipping margaritas by the beach – your LA adventure hit all the right notes. Sure, the traffic may have been a little “Fast & Furious,” but at least now you have officially lived the LA dream.
Here are some more cool things to do:
Ben Voyage, Movie Stars!