4 Days in Los Angeles: A Complete Itinerary

Four days covers LA's beach towns, classic sights, and a couple of its stronger museums, grouped geographically to minimize driving between distant neighborhoods on the same day.

Day 1: Santa Monica and Venice

Spend the day on the Westside — Santa Monica Pier in the morning, then walk or bike south along the beach path to Venice for its boardwalk, street performers, and skate park. Stay for sunset on the beach before heading to dinner nearby.

Day 2: Griffith Observatory and Hollywood

Visit Griffith Observatory, free to enter, for views over the city and the Hollywood Sign. In the afternoon, head to Hollywood Boulevard for the Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre, treating it as a quick, novelty stop rather than the day's main event.

Day 3: Getty Center and West Hollywood

Spend the morning and early afternoon at the Getty Center, free admission, for its art, architecture, and gardens overlooking the city. In the evening, explore West Hollywood's restaurant and nightlife scene, or Beverly Hills if shopping is more your interest.

Day 4: Downtown LA or flexible day

Use the final day for Downtown LA's arts district and dining scene, a return to a favorite beach, or Universal Studios if theme parks are part of your trip.

Getting around

A rental car or consistent rideshare use is close to essential across all four days; budget real time for traffic, especially between the Westside and Downtown.

What to pack

Sunscreen and layers for cooler mornings near the coast — see our Los Angeles travel guide for the fuller packing list and more on choosing a base neighborhood.