Where to Stay in Los Angeles
United States
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Los Angeles at a Glance
8 categories
Top Tips for Los Angeles
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Rent a car. While LA has public transport, it's extensive but often slow and requires multiple transfers. Having a car offers the most flexibility to explore the vast spread of attractions.
Getting Around
Utilize the Metro Expo Line to connect Santa Monica directly to Downtown LA, which is one of the most convenient public transit routes for visitors.
Watch Out For
Fake petitions/charity collectors in tourist areas.
Solo Female Travel
Exercise caution, especially at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuables. Public transport can be less safe late at night.
Hidden Gems in Los Angeles
Lesser-known spots the locals love
The Last Bookstore
This iconic independent bookstore is a labyrinth of new and used books, with a famous art gallery and a unique Instagrammable tunnel of books.
Elysian Park
FREELos Angeles' oldest park offers stunning panoramic views of the city, Dodger Stadium, and the Hollywood sign, perfect for a peaceful escape.
Grand Central Market
A historic food hall buzzing with energy, featuring a diverse array of vendors offering everything from pupusas to gourmet ice cream.
Echo Park Lake
Rent a swan pedal boat on this picturesque lake, surrounded by palm trees and offering beautiful views of the downtown skyline.
Museum of Jurassic Technology
An eccentric and enigmatic museum that blurs the lines between art, science, and fiction, filled with bizarre and fascinating exhibits.
Langer's Deli
Consistently rated as one of the best delis in the country, famous for its #19 pastrami sandwich on rye.
What It Costs in Los Angeles
Daily budget per person in USD
💡50% cheaper than New York
USD 100/day
USD 250/day
USD 600/day
Where to Stay in Los Angeles
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Santa Monica Pier15 min
- Third Street Promenade10 min
- Palisades Park5 min
Pros
- +Direct beach access and ocean views
- +Excellent walkability and many amenities
- +Good public transport connections (Expo Line)
Cons
- -Can be very crowded, especially on weekends
- -Higher cost of living and accommodation
Top stays in Santa Monica
Shutters on the Beach
$$$$Luxurious beachfront hotel with a sophisticated, Hamptons-like feel.
Hotel Shangri-La Santa Monica
$$$Art Deco-inspired hotel with a popular rooftop bar overlooking the ocean.
Palihouse Santa Monica
$$$Chic boutique hotel with a cozy, residential feel and a lovely courtyard.
HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel
$Well-regarded hostel offering dorms and private rooms close to the beach and metro.
Best for
Walk to
- Sunset Strip5 min
- Santa Monica Boulevard10 min
- The Comedy Store15 min
Pros
- +Incredible dining and entertainment options
- +Stylish and trendy atmosphere
- +Central location for exploring other parts of LA
Cons
- -Can be noisy due to nightlife
- -Parking can be challenging and expensive
Top stays in West Hollywood
Chateau Marmont
$$$$Historic, iconic hotel known for its celebrity clientele and secluded bungalows.
The London West Hollywood
$$$All-suite hotel with a rooftop pool offering panoramic city views.
Andaz West Hollywood
$$$Trendy hotel on the Sunset Strip with a lively rooftop pool and bar.
The Standard, Hollywood
$$$Modern hotel with a vibrant social scene and a popular pool area.
Best for
Walk to
- Grand Central Market10 min
- Walt Disney Concert Hall15 min
- The Broad Museum15 min
- Arts District20 min
Pros
- +Excellent public transport hub
- +Wide range of dining and cultural attractions
- +Revitalized areas with impressive architecture
Cons
- -Can feel desolate in certain areas at night
- -Visible homelessness is a significant issue
Top stays in Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA)
The Standard, Downtown LA
$$$Iconic hotel with a rooftop pool and bar offering stunning city views.
Ace Hotel Downtown Los Angeles
$$$Housed in a historic theater, known for its stylish design and vibrant lobby scene.
Freehand Los Angeles
$$Trendy hotel with a rooftop pool, offering both private rooms and shared accommodations.
InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown
$$$One of the tallest buildings on the West Coast, offering unparalleled views from its rooms and restaurants.
Best for
Walk to
- Wilshire/Western Metro Station5 min
- Numerous Korean BBQ restaurants5 min
- Karaoke bars10 min
Pros
- +Unbeatable and affordable food options
- +Vibrant nightlife and entertainment
- +Good access to public transportation (Metro Red/Purple Lines)
Cons
- -Can be noisy and crowded
- -Street parking is very difficult
- -Less aesthetically polished than some other areas
Top stays in Koreatown
The Line Hotel
$$$Stylish hotel with multiple dining options and a popular rooftop pool.
Hotel Normandie
$$$Historic hotel with a charming French-inspired design and a popular cocktail bar.
Coral Tree Inn
$$A clean and well-maintained mid-range option with good amenities.
Koreatown Inn
$A budget-friendly option known for its value and central location.
Areas to be cautious
- Skid Row (DTLA): This area has a very high concentration of homeless individuals and is not a tourist destination; it can be overwhelming and unsafe for visitors.
- Certain stretches of Hollywood Boulevard (away from major attractions): While the Walk of Fame area is a tourist hub, venturing too far off the beaten path, especially at night, can lead to areas with increased petty crime and aggressive panhandling.
Insider tip: Rent a car. While LA has public transport, it's extensive but often slow and requires multiple transfers. Having a car offers the most flexibility to explore the vast spread of attractions.
Safety in Los Angeles
ModerateSolo Female Travel
Exercise caution, especially at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuables. Public transport can be less safe late at night.
At Night
Varies significantly by neighborhood. Tourist hubs like Santa Monica Pier and parts of West Hollywood are generally safe. DTLA and certain parts of Hollywood require more vigilance. Avoid walking alone in deserted or poorly lit areas.
Emergency
911
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Fake petitions/charity collectors in tourist areas.
- 2Overly friendly strangers offering 'free' tours or help, leading to requests for money.
- 3Street vendors selling counterfeit goods.
Getting Around Los Angeles
Transport, connectivity, and costs
✈️
Airport to City
LAX: FlyAway Bus to Union Station ($9.75, ~45-60 min), Rideshare (Uber/Lyft, $40-$60+, ~45-90 min depending on traffic). Other airports have similar options.
🎫
Day Pass
$7 (Metro Day Pass)
Single: $1.75 (Metro Rail/Bus)
🚶
Walkability
Car NeededUber, Lyft
📶
WiFi
Good50-100 Mbps
Public Transport
Metro Rail (subway & light rail lines - Red, Purple, Expo, Blue, Green, Gold, Orange) and Metro Bus. Limited coverage for tourists outside core areas.
Ride-share
Uber, Lyft. Expensive due to distance and traffic; expect $20-$50+ for most trips between popular neighborhoods.
Transport Tip
Utilize the Metro Expo Line to connect Santa Monica directly to Downtown LA, which is one of the most convenient public transit routes for visitors.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Many cafes (Starbucks, local coffee shops), some public parks, libraries, and hotels.
Coworking
WeWork ($30-$50/day pass), Regus ($30-$45/day pass), various independent spaces ($25-$40/day pass).
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: Apr, May, Nov
Hotels & Accommodation in Los Angeles
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Who Is Los Angeles Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
Beach Lovers
Offers direct access to beaches, a famous pier, and coastal parks with a relaxed yet lively atmosphere.
Nightlife Enthusiasts
The undisputed hub for bars, clubs, live music venues, and a vibrant scene along the Sunset Strip.
Foodies on a Budget
Boasts an incredible density of authentic, affordable, and diverse culinary experiences, especially Korean cuisine.
Culture Seekers
Home to world-class museums, concert halls, historic architecture, and a burgeoning arts scene.
First-Time Visitors
Provides a classic LA beach experience with plenty of amenities, safety, and iconic attractions within walking distance.
Digital Nomads
Offers a good mix of affordable accommodation, coworking spaces, and a central location with decent public transport.
Los Angeles on TripAdvisor
Read traveller reviews, tips, and photos
About Los Angeles
Los Angeles (often referred to by its initials, LA) is the most populous city in the U.S. state of California, and the commercial, financial, and cultural center of Southern California. With an estimated 3.88 million residents within the city limits as of 2024, it is the second-most populous city in the United States, behind New York City, and the largest city in the Western United States.
Frequently Asked Questions About Los Angeles
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Los Angeles Guides by Traveller Type
Tailored neighborhood picks for how you travel