One of the world's most famous and most-frequently-filmed cities, Los Angeles needs no introduction. A vibrant, bustling metropolis in southern California, it's the home of the Hollywood film industry, but there's much more to Los Angeles than strolling down the star-studded Walk of Fame and getting a selfie in front of the famous Hollywood sign. As well as being a center of culture, LA is home to outstanding museums, thrilling theme parks and some of the best shopping the world has to offer.
Los Angeles is a place any movie buff should visit at least once. There's the Walk of Fame, which stretches along Hollywood Boulevard and hosts stars dedicated to more than 2,600 actors, singers, directors and more, and of course the iconic sign up in the Hollywood Hills. For a behind-the-scenes look at the goings-on, head to one of the many studio tours on offer.
For a more chilled out experience of Los Angeles, it's hard to beat Griffith Park. Situated among hills overlooking the famous skyline, it covers more than 4,000 acres and features walking trails and scenic drives for those who've used car rental in Los Angeles. Then, once it's gone dark, head over to the Griffith Observatory, where you can learn all about the cosmos and stargaze through its free-to-use telescope.
Situated just south of the city itself, no trip to LA is complete without a visit to the world's most famous theme park and the self-styled 'happiest place on Earth'. Kids will love getting to meet their favorite classic Disney characters, but there's plenty for adults to enjoy too. Plus, right next door there's the Disney California Adventure Park, which caters to more modern tastes, with areas based on Pixar and Marvel, among others.
About an hour's drive west of Los Angeles along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu is well-known as the home of the rich and famous, but has a much more laid-back vibe than nearby LA. After taking in the scenery on the drive itself, you can check out the iconic Malibu pier before heading down to the beach to enjoy some of the world's best surfing conditions, before ending the day by watching the sun go down over the Pacific.
A bit further afield, Joshua Tree National Park is a great place to experience the other side of southern California, away from the crowds and noise of the city. Pick up your car rental at Los Angeles International Airport and make the three-hour drive to explore a landscape full of rugged rock formations, where the Mojave desert meets the Colorado desert. There are nine campgrounds within the park where you can sleep under the stars and look out for some of the local wildlife.
Around two-and-a-half hours south down the I-5 freeway for those with car rental at LAX is the city of San Diego, where major attractions include the famous San Diego Zoo, Mission Beach boardwalk and Balboa Park, with its impressive Spanish-style architecture and numerous museums. After you've spent an afternoon strolling around the picturesque Seaport Village, round off your visit by heading over the Mexican border to neighboring Tijuana, with its vibrant nightlife and great range of restaurants.
Get the full southern California experience with a convertible to enjoy the sunny climate.
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
Yes, there are numerous toll roads and express lanes around Los Angeles, including on the I-10 and I-110, which require a FastTrak pass to enter.
July, with an average of 364.1 hours.
February, with an average of 97 mm.
Los Angeles Film Festival, Los Angeles County Fair, Monterey Jazz Festival