Los Angeles City Breaks

A guide to Los Angeles

The ‘City of Angels’ is a vast urban sprawl, and much of the city is very familiar to most people, immortalized on film and TV from the millionaire mansions in the Hollywood Hills to the gangland ghettos of South Central. Its 18 million inhabitants speak over 100 languages, and there are distinctive ethnic districts such as Little Tokyo, Thai Town, Little Armenia, and even Little Gaza. It guarantees a colourful atmosphere with plenty of exotic shopping, dining and local festivities.

Soak up the glamour of Hollywood

Getting around Los Angeles on public transport is rather complicated, so an organised LA city tour is the best bet. Most itineraries focus on the attractions of Hollywood, and there is enough to see and do to fill a whole day and night. Tours allow visitors to peek into the homes of the rich and famous; see the iconic Hollywood sign, stroll along upscale Rodeo Drive and dance the night away in the fashionable clubs and bars of the Sunset Strip. Other notable attractions include the walk of fame at the Chinese Theatre and family favourites such as the Universal Studios tour and the Hollywood Wax Museum.

Vibrant beach life

You can also take advantage of the sub-tropical climate and enjoy a vibrant beach culture. There are dozens of famous stretches of golden sand such as eccentric Venice Beach, perfect for curious people-watchers, whilst Redondo Beach makes for an active and thrilling day out for kids, with a traditional pier filled with amusements and organised beach games. Art often takes a backseat to Hollywood excess and glamour, but there are numerous first class museums worth seeking out during your stay. The very finest include the Getty Centre, considered the best in the country, the Museum of Contemporary Art and Los Angeles County Museum of Art, all of which offer free entry to visitors.