Is a trip to Los Angeles in your plans or on your wishlist? If so, this post highlights three different areas of the City of Angels we suggest are worth checking out. For a full itinerary including links to hotels, restaurants and activities, see the full website page here.
Downtown LA (DTLA)
The Arts District is part of the up and coming Downtown LA (DTLA) area on the east side of the city. It’s an area where raw creativity meets gritty charm. Once a hub of warehouses and factories, it’s now a buzzing mix of street art, independent galleries, cool cafés and design-forward shops. It is a little rough around the edges but also full of character. So, you’ll find some of the hippest restaurants in LA (Bestia was our fave place) right next to graffiti-covered, disused buildings. It’s not polished, but that’s the point.
One highlight of our recent trip to The Arts District was the Los Angeles outpost of Hauser & Wirth. Set in a vast former flour mill, the gallery retains its grit, with exposed beams and weathered concrete, all tastefully renovated. The gallery also has a lovely restaurant, Manuela, with a pretty sun-soaked garden terrace. Ever-changing, free exhibitions have recently included a spectacular installation by legendary Los Angeles artist David Hammons.
Hollywood Hills
The laid-back, sun-drenched hills above Hollywood are full of charm—where winding roads lead to secret city views, classic LA architecture, and that iconic sign. Walking through the Hollywood Hills, you can admire the stunning homes nestled into the landscape. The streets twist and turn to reveal breathtaking views over the city. You can also take a scenic loop around the Hollywood Reservoir, a peaceful, palm-lined path that offers a perfect view of the Hollywood Sign.
Santa Monica
Santa Monica is a vibrant coastal town where laid‐back beach vibes meet upscale urban sophistication. From luxury hotels with sweeping ocean views to lively bike rides along the sandy shore, this part of Los Angeles offers an irresistible blend of style, history and endless sunshine.
Rent a bike and enjoy a scenic ride along the coastline all the way to Venice Beach, where you’ll be treated to expansive ocean views. The ride concludes with a glimpse of the lively, colourful atmosphere that defines Venice Beach. And be sure to check out the fascinating and beautiful Venice Canals.
LA is a city of hidden layers waiting for you to discover, with an underlying current of creativity and coolness from its Hollywood associations. Whether you want to dip into art galleries, dine at hip restaurants, hike to the Hollywood sign or simply sit with a coffee watching the world go by, there’s a trip to LA to suit every kind of traveller.
Check out our website for a more detailed itinerary, including weblinks to all the places we recommend here.
