Experience the best of Los Angeles in just two days with our perfect itinerary for first-time visitors!
Are you excited to explore the city of Los Angeles but only have two days to do it? Don’t worry! LA has so much to see and do, and with the right plan, you can enjoy the best of the city in just 48 hours. From landmarks to tasty food, you’ll be surprised by how much you can experience in a short visit.
Whether you love movies, art, or relaxing on the beach, Los Angeles has something for everyone. But, with so many places to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together the perfect 2-day Los Angeles itinerary just for you!
What to Know Before You Go
Before we get into the actual itinerary, here are some important things to know before you go to Los Angeles. Being prepared will help you make the most of your visit and enjoy everything the city has to offer.
Transportation Options
Rental Car: Renting a car is a great way to explore Los Angeles at your own pace, especially if you plan to visit farther places. Just remember that traffic can be heavy!
Rideshare: Services like Uber and Lyft are widely available and can be convenient for getting around the city without the hassle of parking.
Public Transit: The Metro system is another option, with buses and trains that can take you to many popular attractions. It’s an affordable choice, but be sure to check routes and schedules.
Packing Essentials
Sunscreen: The California sun can be strong, so pack sunscreen to protect your skin while you’re out exploring.
Comfortable Shoes: You’ll likely be doing a lot of walking, so bring comfy shoes to keep your feet happy as you tour the city.
Light Jacket: Evenings can get chilly, so a light jacket is a good idea, especially if you plan to be near the coast.
Best Times to Visit Specific Attractions
Hollywood Walk of Fame: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
Griffith Observatory: Late afternoon is a great time for views, but be aware that it can get busy closer to sunset.
Santa Monica Pier: Arriving on a weekday can help you avoid larger weekend crowds.
Other Tips
Stay Hydrated: Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated while exploring.
Check Event Calendars: Look for any local events or festivals that might be happening during your visit, as they can add to your experience.
Plan for Traffic: Allow extra travel time between attractions, especially during rush hours, to avoid delays.
2-Day Los Angeles Itinerary
Now that you have some helpful tips for your visit, it’s time to dive into the 2-day Los Angeles itinerary. This easy-to-follow plan will help you see the best sights, enjoy great food, and have fun in the city.
Let’s get started on your amazing journey through LA!
Day 1: Exploring Iconic LA
Morning
Kick off your first day in Los Angeles with a delicious breakfast at ITH Los Angeles Beach Hostel. Some other popular spots include The Griddle Café for fluffy pancakes, Sqirl for unique toast options, and Café 101. After fueling up, head to the Griffith Observatory. Here, you can enjoy views of the LA skyline and explore exhibits about space and science, making it a perfect way to start your adventure.
Afternoon
For lunch, grab a bite from one of LA’s famous food trucks, like Kogi BBQ for tasty tacos or The Lobos Truck for gourmet burgers, or visit an eatery like In-N-Out Burger for a classic California experience. After lunch, take a walk along the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where you can see the iconic stars of your favorite celebrities. If you have some extra time, consider visiting the TCL Chinese Theatre, known for its impressive handprints and footprints of movie stars.
Evening
As the sun sets, treat yourself to dinner at one of LA’s popular restaurants. You can choose from a variety of cuisines, such as Mexican, Italian, or sushi, depending on what you’re in the mood for. After dinner, head to Santa Monica Pier to enjoy ocean views and fun activities at the amusement park. Take a relaxing stroll along the beach and explore the Third Street Promenade, where you can find shops, street performers, and a lively atmosphere to end your first day in LA.
Day 2: Vibe with the L.A Culture
Morning
Start your second day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner or brunch spot. You can try The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker for tasty brunch options and Eggslut for egg dishes. After breakfast, head to Venice Beach to soak up the atmosphere. Take a walk along the Venice Canals, where you can admire the homes and beautiful views. Don’t forget to stop by Muscle Beach to watch bodybuilders and street performers showing off their skills—it’s a true slice of LA culture!
November is a great time of year to visit Venice; before you go, be sure to check out our full November in Los Angeles guide!
Afternoon
For lunch, enjoy a meal at a beachfront café or seafood restaurant. Consider places like The Venice Whaler for casual dining with ocean views or Gjusta for a tasty selection of sandwiches and fresh seafood. After lunch, it’s time to dive into some thrift shopping around LA! Head to Melrose Avenue, known for its trendy thrift shops and vintage boutiques. You’ll find everything from unique clothing to quirky home decor.
Evening
For your final dinner, head to Little Tokyo or Koreatown to experience LA’s diverse food scene. In Little Tokyo, you can enjoy ramen at Daikokuya or sushi at Sushi Gen. If you choose Koreatown, don’t miss out on K BBQ at places like Genwa or Park’s BBQ. After dinner, dive into the LA nightlife! Check out local bars, clubs, or late-night spots like The Rooftop at The Standard for stunning views or The Viper Room for live music. Whatever you choose, there’s plenty of fun to be had as you wrap up your LA adventure!
In conclusion, your two-day adventure in Los Angeles will be packed with fun experiences, and this itinerary will help you make the most of your time in this amazing city.
To make your stay even better, consider booking a room at ITH Los Angeles Beach Hostel. It’s located just steps away from the beach, making it a great spot for your LA adventures. With a friendly vibe, nice amenities, and chances to meet other travelers, you’ll feel right at home while spending two days in Los Angeles.
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