Discover the best of California with our unique Los Angeles itinerary! Discover incredible tips and attractions in the City of Angels!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\nLos Angeles is a metropolis immersed in the world of cinema, which is why it is very sophisticated and preserves that almost magical air of eternal youth\u2026 It is as if the city invites you to fall in love, fostering the idea that your dreams can come true and that anything is possible in the “City of Angels\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Well, given that rather romantic introduction, we also need to get down to brass tacks: LA is one of those giant, bustling, sprawling, and often chaotic cities. So, there are a few things that can make your stay and experience there much easier \u2013 and a car is definitely one of them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I’m Ana Zeni, from the Marketing team at Rentcars, and I’ll tell you all about my trip in Los Angeles, as well as give you realistic tips on everything you can do there by car!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/span>How many days are needed to explore Los Angeles?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nIn this itinerary, you’ll find that it’s perfectly possible to see several Los Angeles attractions in just 3 days. However, if you’re planning on visiting further-flung places like Universal Studios Hollywood or The Getty, it’s recommended to spend at least a week in the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>What is the best time to travel to Los Angeles?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nSummer is always a good choice to enjoy the best of the beaches in California<\/strong>, but I visited during autumn and it was amazing! Especially because this season in Los Angeles is very pleasant, with mild temperatures and not as many tourists as you\u2019d find during summer. For that reason, prices are lower and attractions are less crowded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/span>What to do in Los Angeles?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nTourism in Los Angeles is heavily reliant on car travel, because the city is vast and public transport isn\u2019t as efficient. Besides, the hot weather with little rain makes car culture in the city very strong, as it provides the perfect conditions for comfortable driving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For this reason, hiring a car should be a top priority when planning your trip to LA. Well-known hire companies, such as Alamo, Enterprise and Budget, offer services throughout the whole region – and to make a reservation with confidence, you can easily compare prices between them and book your car using the Rentcars website or app. This way, you’ll have all your booking information in one place! Much easier, isn’t it?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Right then, let’s get on with it: places you simply must visit in LA and how to drive there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>Day 1: Beaches and Shopping<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<\/span>Santa Monica<\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\nTo kick off your day in true American style<\/strong>, your first stop for breakfast should be Denny’s. This restaurant chain has over 60 years of history, and it is renowned for serving up classic American breakfasts featuring eggs, bacon, pancakes, and milkshakes. I ordered their classic option, which came with pancakes and hash browns, and it was absolutely delicious!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAfter that, I set off for Santa Monica to see the famous pier<\/strong> that’s been immortalised in countless television shows and films. To get there from Downtown LA, you can take the I-10 West or head west along roads like Olympic Boulevard and Pico Boulevard.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIf you opt for the I-10 West (also known as the Santa Monica Freeway<\/strong>), join it via the designated slip roads and keep an eye out for signs pointing towards the “Pacific Coast Highway”. Thereafter, on Highway 1,\u00a0 you’ll see signs for the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
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<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAs well as strolling, the pier houses Pacific Park, an amusement park featuring the ‘West Coaster,’ the roller coaster that graces every postcard of the Santa Monica Pier<\/strong>. Take a ride on the West Coaster for an adrenaline rush, or opt for a more relaxed experience on the Ferris wheel, carousel, and other similar rides.<\/p>\n\n\n\nOn the pier, you’ll also find a selection of souvenir and clothing shops, alongside beachfront restaurants, perfect for browsing or enjoying a nice meal. I found a fantastic pair of sunglasses for just US$12, so there are bargains to be found! And finally, if the weather’s good, you can make the most of the beach, or cycle along the seafront.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nIn Santa Monica, you’ll find on-street parking with parking meters that operate during certain hours – the rates vary depending on the location. It’s crucial to follow the parking regulations, such as time limits and any restrictions that may apply on specific days. Another key tip is to use apps like ParkMe<\/strong> to find available parking spaces, check prices in real time, and, in some cases, even book parking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n