The City of Angels makes you dream, fantasize and imagine the wildest things. This daydream awaits you on an incredible trip across the Atlantic. Although Los Angeles is best known for its luxury, stars and cinema, these must-see sights are complemented by other, more cultural and equally impressive sights. In L.A., everything is big, grandiose and superb! Follow us to this unique city, with these 19 must-sees, must-do's and must-visits.
1. Hollywood Boulevard and its Walk of Fame
Put yourself in the shoes of a star for a few moments on Hollywood Boulevard, the most famous street in Los Angeles! Of course, the famous golden stars bearing the names of the biggest stars are part of the memorable moments you'll experience in the City of Angels. But this incredible boulevard has many more secrets to reveal:
- the Guinness World Records Museum;
- madame Tussauds Hollywood, where you can meet your favorite stars in over 100 life-size wax statues. Click here to book your ticket;
- grauman's Chinese Theatre, located in the Hollywood and Highland Center shopping center.
The Dolby Theatre, where the Oscars are held, is also on this side of the mall.
2. Behold the famous Hollywood sign
Nothing symbolizes Los Angeles more than the Hollywood Sign and its 9 immense white letters. Initially destined to disappear in the 1920s, these letters forming the word "Hollywood" quickly became the symbol of L.A. Building on its success, the sign even became a city cultural landmark in 1973. Located on the southern slope of Mount Lee in Griffith Park, it attracts millions of visitors every year. To see it up close, you'll need to park along Lake Hollywood Drive. Then walk about 400 m until you reach the gate giving access to the park. The best place to see this famous sign is at the Griffith Observatory.
And if you're planning to explore Los Angeles over several days, we recommend buying the Go City Los Angeles pass here , which will give you discounts on over 40 attractions and things to do in Los Angeles, including Universal Studios, Madame Tussauds Hollywood, and more.
3. Head for the Griffith Park planetarium
In addition to its unmissable view of the Hollywood Sign, the Griffith Observatory offers an unparalleled view of the city, the surrounding countryside and, at night, the stars. The Observatory has been home to a huge planetarium and exhibition hall since May 14, 1935. Free parking is available on site, making it all the more attractive.
At the heart of the complex, telescopes offer free observation of the moon, stars and even the sun. It overlooks a superb park, whose gardens, equestrian center and hiking trails, to name but a few, promise a memorable visit.
If you'd like to book a guide for the tour, you can do so by clicking right here.
4. Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Venice Beach
Ahhh! Venice Beach, its overrated beaches, its stars, its palm trees and its body-building enthusiasts! Yes, you know what we're talking about: those long seaside promenades, taken by women with perfect roller-skating bodies, where age never seems to have broken through the human barrier. While the less-than-intimate atmosphere of the place isn't for everyone, it's still a must-see at least once during a stay in Los Angeles. And let's be honest: the beauty of California's beaches stretches out before you, and it would be a shame to miss the show.
It's also the perfect time to enjoy a totally Californian experience and learn to surf in the company of professional instructors on one of Los Angeles' most famous beaches, Venice Beach, during a course suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers, which you can book in just a few clicks here.
5. Rodeo Drive, a must for shoppers
California means Los Angeles, Beverly Hills means Beverly Hills... and Rodeo Drive means Rodeo Drive at some point! Have you ever wondered down the shopping aisle at Disneyland Paris? Well, it's that magical, fairytale atmosphere that can be found on the city's most famous thoroughfare. While the luxury boutiques are a real eye-catcher, it's the colorful architecture, palm trees and flower-filled walkways that give the place its charm. Shopaholics, you're in for a treat!
6. Universal Studio Hollywood: an incredible complex
More than just a film location, Universal Studio Hollywood is home to a veritable theme park. You can relive cult scenes from your favorite films, in the midst ofspectacular attractions. Of course, film buffs can also take a behind-the-scenes tour of the studios, although some areas are closed to visitors. Quiet, it's spinning!
All in all, between the attractions, the visits, the discovery of cult film sets and other surprises, you'll spend a day (or even two, preferably), absolutely memorable(s). The park and studios stretch over no less than 168 hectares in the San Fernando Valley, offering maximum thrills to visitors.
We strongly recommend that you book your tickets online before your visit, right here , to save time on site.
7. Beverly Hills, its luxury, its stars
Back to Beverly Hills, but this time to the homes of the stars. Open-top buses offer tours of the homes of your favorite stars, so you can get at least a little closer to your idols. Just a little bit, then, because it goes without saying that the properties are very well protected, with visual elements or plants acting as privacy screens. And we understand them... The camera's already focused on them, so let's respect their privacy as much as possible.
You can round off your visit with the Beverly Hills Trolley Tours, to delve deeper into the city and its history.
If you'd like to admire the homes of celebrities, we recommend this guided tour of Hollywood, West Hollywood and Beverly Hills by open-top bus, taking in the highlights of the entertainment capital of the world.
8. The Farmer's Market in Los Angeles
As famous as the Grand Central Market, the Farmer's Market welcomes food lovers. Yes, it's possible to eat well in the U.S., despite the country's reputation for junk food! As proof, chefs from L.A.'s top restaurants shop here every day, in search of top-of-the-range products. On site, you'll find... well, absolutely everything, starting with gourmet products inspired from all over the world:
- France;
- Singapore;
- France; Singapore; Greece;
- Italy;
- Brazil, etc.
Whether you're looking for pizza, sushi, bread or unusual drinks, you're sure to find them at this emblematic city market .
You can also do a bit of shopping here, as clothing, jewelry, souvenirs and other exotic accessories also compete for territory.
9. Forest Lawn Memorial Park, a place of remembrance for the world's greatest stars
A little taste of Père Lachaise cemetery in Los Angeles... The Forest Lawn cemetery is the burial place of many Hollywood stars, including Humphrey Bodart, Elisabeth Taylor and Michael Jackson. This immense open-air domain remains accessible to the public, for those wishing to pay their last respects to a departed celebrity.
10. Have fun at Disneyland Park, the real thing, the first one!
Experience pure magic at Disneyland Park! If you've already enjoyed the Paris park, you're in for a real treat. This Enchanted Kingdom, inaugurated on July 17 1955, is the only one to have been conceived by Mickey's dad himself. Numerous attractions, from the oldest to the most recent, will make your head spin:
- Adventureland;
- Frontierland;
- Fantaisyland;
- Main Street;
- Tomorrowland;
- Space Mountain, etc.
Andthe icing on the cake: the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim is now home to a Star Wars universe. Simply magical... This park is the second most visited in the United States. It's therefore advisable, wherever possible, to visit outside weekends, and even outside school vacation periods. That way, you'll have time to enjoy many more attractions!
11. Topanga State Park, cleaner air from the City of Angels
Take a breath of fresh air in the Santa Monica mountains. Topanga State Park is reached by following Topanga Canyon Boulevard. The view before you already begins to immerse you in this green lung located just a stone's throw from the city. The park is the ideal starting point for numerous canyons, as well as hiking trails offering incredible panoramic views. That's the beauty of this corner of California: nature and glitter rub shoulders, offering views as varied as they are stunning.
12. Santa Monica, a relaxed coastal atmosphere
Santa Monica also boasts superb beaches. Often considered more family-friendly than Venice Beach, they offer a whole range of activities to make the most of the coast's assets. It's the ideal place to rent a bike, visit an aquarium, enjoy a panoramic view from the top of the Ferris wheel, or admire the work ofstreet artists on the Third Street Promenade. This festive mecca is home to a wide range of leisure activities, but it's also a place for youngsters. Its superb 1922 carousel, for example, brings a touch of authenticity to the legendary City of Angels.
13. The Getty Center, a must-see museum in Los Angeles
Yes, there's more to Los Angeles than beaches, stars and glitter! Culture is also a part of this legendary city, notably at the Getty Center, which majestically overlooks the surrounding area. A museum shares the land with the Getty Villa, offering visitors a whole host of surprises. The gardens and building themselves promise to be a sight to behold. Sculptures, paintings and drawings make up the J. Paul Getty Museum's collection, making for a very interesting visit.
Explore the highlights of the Getty Center's permanent collection on this private guided tour which will reveal the secrets of works of art representing different eras in an iconic Los Angeles location.
14. Visit the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
The LACMA, or Los Angeles County Museum, is a must-see museum in Los Angeles. In this temple of artistic culture, you'll discover the history of art from around the world. From Japan to Mexico and Colombia, to name but a few, you'll discover works as old as they are new. The museum is absolutely immense, housing thousands of paintings and other works of all kinds. A true splendor, not to be missed under any circumstances!
15. The Broad, a major contemporary museum
Come on, we can't get enough of it: one more little museum for the road! This is the most recent of our selection, opening in 2015.Contemporary art is given pride of place on two floors, thanks to the initiative of philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad. Admission to The Broad is free, but book yours well in advance of your visit. Spaces are bound to be at a premium, and not everyone will be able to get in without a reservation.
16. Visit the superb Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)
Let's end this tour of Los Angeles' famous museums with the MOCA, or Museum of Contemporary Art. As you've probably guessed, this is another museum dedicated to modern art, founded in 1979. Take your pick from the 3 sites of this exceptional museum:
- MOCA Grand Avenue;
- The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA;
- MOCA Pacific Design Center.
In the first complex, you'll find the most impressive collection, as well as a beautiful boutique. A wide variety of styles are represented in this cultural haven, which spans the period from 1940 to the present day.
17. Angel Flight, the mini funicular of Los Angeles
Add a little fun to your trip to Los Angeles . TheAngel Flight is a mini funicular only 91 meters long. Originally built in 1901, this original orange and black means of transport linked Hill Street to the superb Victorian houses. The hill was thus easily climbed, to access exceptional properties. While the climb is no longer of any real interest, it's still fun and inexpensive (between 0.50 cents and US$1).
If you'd like to see the Angel Flight, we recommend this guided tour which you can book here which takes you on a bike tour of downtown Los Angeles via the funicular.
18. Admire Hollyhock House
Change hills: this time, you're facing Griffith Park, in Barnsdall Park. Here you'll find one of the City of Angels' oldest mansions: Hollyhock House, owned by Alice Barnsdall. Its architecture, the work of architect Franck Lloyd Wright, immerses you in the L.A. of the 1920s. For $7, you can enjoy a self-guided tour from Thursday to Saturday. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this unique house is well worth a visit!
19. Marvel at Union Station
You've probably seen it in a movie or two:Union Station, with its vaulted ceilings, gleaming floors and retro furniture. It's as mythical as it is splendid, and is invariably one of the most beautiful stations to see at least once in a lifetime. With its painted ceilings and unusual lighting fixtures, the place is an invitation to marvel. A guided tour allows you to learn more about the station itself, as well as about transportation in general in Los Angeles. A truly fascinating visit that you won't regret.
Where to stay in Los Angeles?
Want to be as close as possible to downtown L.A.? Head for Downtown, the ideal neighborhood for living in the heart of the city's hustle and bustle. If you're aiming for the coast, Venice Beach or Santa Monica are the best places to stay. However, we advise you to avoid neighborhoods to the south of Los Angeles, such as Florence, Inglewood, Campton or Watts. They can be a bit rough around the edges.
-The Hollywood Hotel, luxury at an affordable price
This beautiful address offers comfortable, well-equipped rooms for a carefree stay. The Hollywood Hotel, with its focus on quality services, offers affordable accommodation close to the metro. At the end of a long day of sightseeing, you'll appreciate the outdoor pool and deckchairs in the shade of the palm trees, which you can book here!
-The W Hollywood, the most beautiful view with top-of-the-range services
The W Hollywood, with its breathtaking views of Griffith Park and many other wonders, is a step upmarket. It's the ideal address to book right here for vacationers who want to be close to a lively, festive area, while enjoying the luxury of a fine hotel.
-The Mosaic Hotel, best placed for shopping enthusiasts
Located a stone's throw from Rodeo Drive, this hotel's uncluttered charm appeals to visitors in search of quality and tranquility. Rooms are furnished with great care and attention to detail. Comfortable facilities, swimming pool, convenient location: the Mosaic Hotel has it all! Click here to book your stay in just a few clicks.
What to do in Los Angeles as a family
The most fun activity for kids will surely be a visit to the studios. Of course, the Universal Studios complex, with its tours and attractions, will already be perfect. But others may also be of interest to your children, such as Warner Bros. Studio, located north of Los Angeles. A third is Paramount Pictures Studios.
And don't forget the beaches of the City of Angels. The kids will be delighted with a swim, and you'll be able to enjoy a change of scenery, as the beaches are so different from those in France. Santa Monica is the place to be, with entertainment, a Ferris wheel and a carousel. Finally, you can dedicate some time of your stay to a visit to the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach.
Tempted by a vacation in Los Angeles? Take advantage of a discount by booking your travel insurance here, and leave with peace of mind!
What to do in Los Angeles in 3 days
Is Los Angeles one of the stops on your road trip? Then condense your visits to see as much as possible in just 3 days. Start with Hollywood Boulevard and Griffith Park. Both are not too far from each other, so you'll have a chance to admire the famous 9-letter sign as you go.
On the second day, devote your day to a visit to one of the Los Angeles studios (Universal, Warner Bros or Paramount). The experience is well worth it!
On the third day, head for one of L.A.'s beaches: Venice Beach or Santa Monica, whichever you prefer. Even if you're not staying at Venice Beach, we still recommend a brief visit, if only to get a feel for the place. The afternoon can be devoted toa visit to Beverly Hills or Rodeo Drive, depending on whether you're more into stars or shopping.
What to do in Los Angeles in 4 days?
Have you decided to extend the experience by an extra day? Take the opportunity to visit an iconic L.A. museum in the morning, then Malibu in the afternoon. The Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the Museum of Contemporary Art are two great places to visit, but you're free to do as you please.
For your Malibu excursion, take the Freeway 101. You'll then head down to Point Dume on superb roads offering breathtaking ocean views. The beaches are superb, but the area is also ideal for hiking and water excursions.
If you ever go on a road trip in California, Los Angeles is bound to be one of your stops. Allow several days to visit the must-see sights of the City of Angels, as there are many points of interest. You won't be coming back anytime soon, so go ahead and treat yourself! However, it's advisable to stay for at least a week to really get the most out of every visit. Leaving without seeing Mickey's original home, for example, would be a real shame!
