Top things to do in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is best explored area by area, combining beaches, entertainment landmarks and culture.
- Hollywood — Walk the Hollywood Walk of Fame and see the forecourt of the TCL Chinese Theatre.
- Griffith Observatory — A hilltop observatory with free exhibits and views of the Hollywood Sign and the city.
- Santa Monica Pier — A classic seaside pier with a small amusement park, beside a wide sandy beach.
- Venice Beach — A lively boardwalk known for street performers, skaters and the Venice canals nearby.
- Getty Center — An art museum on a hill with gardens, fine collections and panoramic views.
- Downtown arts scene — The Walt Disney Concert Hall, The Broad museum and historic theatres.
- Universal Studios Hollywood — A film-themed park with rides and a studio tour.
Best time to visit Los Angeles
Los Angeles enjoys a Mediterranean climate with plenty of sunshine and little rain for most of the year. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are ideal, with warm days, fewer crowds than summer and comfortable conditions for sightseeing and hiking.
Early summer can bring grey, overcast mornings along the coast, often called June Gloom, while late summer and early autumn can be very hot inland. Winters are mild and are the wettest time of year. Summer is the busiest season at beaches and theme parks.
Getting from the airport
Los Angeles International Airport is on the coast about 25 kilometres south-west of downtown. Journey times into the city vary widely with traffic, from under half an hour to well over an hour at peak times.
FlyAway buses run from the terminals to Union Station downtown and other hubs. Taxis and ride-hailing pick-ups are handled at a dedicated area reached by free shuttle from the terminals, and shuttle buses also connect with the LA Metro rail network. Most rental car companies operate from off-airport locations served by shuttles.
Where to stay
Los Angeles is enormous, so pick a base that matches your plans to avoid long drives.
- Santa Monica — Beachfront, walkable and relaxed, ideal for families and first-time visitors.
- Hollywood — Central for entertainment sights and nightlife, suited to film fans.
- Downtown — Arts venues, sports arenas and rail links, good for culture and events.
- Beverly Hills and West Hollywood — Upscale hotels, shopping and dining in a central location.
Travel tips
- Money: Cards are accepted almost everywhere; tipping around 15 to 20 per cent is customary in restaurants.
- Getting around: Distances are large, so plan for ride-hailing or a rental car; Metro rail is useful for some routes.
- Traffic: Avoid rush hours when possible and group nearby sights on the same day.
- Sun and sea: Use strong sun protection and swim only at beaches with lifeguards.
- Safety: Keep valuables out of sight in parked cars and stay aware of your surroundings at night.
Frequently asked questions
Which airport serves Los Angeles?
Los Angeles is served mainly by Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), on the coast south-west of downtown.
How do I get from LAX to the city?
Use the FlyAway bus, a taxi or ride-hailing car from the dedicated pick-up area, a hotel shuttle, or the shuttle connection to Metro rail.
What currency is used in Los Angeles?
The US dollar (USD).
Do I need a visa to visit the United States?
Entry requirements depend on your nationality and change from time to time. Check the latest requirements with RwandAir's travel requirements tool or the official government website before you travel.
When is the best time to visit Los Angeles?
Spring and autumn offer warm, sunny weather with fewer crowds than summer.
Where can I see the Hollywood Sign?
Good viewpoints include Griffith Observatory, the Hollywood and Highland area and several hiking trails in Griffith Park.
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