LA on a Budget: 3 Days of Fun!

Experience the glitz and glamour of LA without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Los Angeles is an exciting destination for those on a limited budget with a variety of free or low-cost activities to choose from. Sightseeing options are endless with iconic attractions like the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Griffith Observatory. Exploring the city's diverse neighborhoods and indulging in affordable street food is a must for any budget-conscious traveler.

Save and get deals

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and Exploration

  • Check in at the Freehand Los Angeles, a trendy yet affordable hotel in Downtown LA.
  • Grab breakfast at Eggslut, where the menu is limited but the egg sandwiches are out of this world.
  • Take a stroll down Rodeo Drive for some window shopping and people watching.
  • Head to The Getty Center for art, architecture, and stunning views of the city.
  • Have dinner at In-N-Out Burger, a staple fast food joint with a secret menu featuring animal-style fries.
Day 2

Beach Day

  • Drive to Santa Monica and park at the pier, where there's plenty of sunshine, sand, and sea.
  • Rent bikes and ride the famous boardwalk to Venice Beach, stopping for photo ops along the way.
  • Snack on street food like tacos or gourmet hot dogs from the vendors that dot the boardwalk.
  • Go surfing or take a surf lesson from one of the many surf schools in the area.
  • Watch the sunset from the pier and splurge on seafood at The Lobster restaurant.
Day 3

Culture and Cuisine

  • Visit the historic Griffith Observatory and take in panoramic views of LA's skyline while checking out exhibits on space and science.
  • Get a caffeine fix at Alfred Coffee, a local coffee chain known for its Instagram-worthy latte art.
  • Take a stroll through Echo Park and grab some artisanal ice cream at McConnell's Fine Ice Creams.
  • Check out the street art in the Arts District and grab a bite at one of the hip eateries like Bestia or Wurstküche.
  • See a show at the iconic Troubadour nightclub, a small venue that's hosted artists like Elton John and Joni Mitchell.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Los Angeles by plane is to fly into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) which is located approximately 16 miles from downtown Los Angeles. There are numerous airlines that operate direct flights from various cities around the world to LAX.

Car

Driving to Los Angeles is an option, as the city is well-connected with major highways and road networks. However, traffic in and around Los Angeles can be very congested so it is important to plan your route ahead of time.

Train

There is no direct train service to Los Angeles, but Amtrak provides rail service to Union Station in downtown Los Angeles from various cities across the United States. The Pacific Surfliner route is a popular option which provides scenic views along the coast of California.

Boat

Los Angeles is a major port city and there are several cruise lines that offer sailings to and from Los Angeles. The Port of Los Angeles is the largest port in the United States and is home to several cruise terminals, including the World Cruise Center which is used by many major cruise line companies.

Bus

Taking a bus to Los Angeles is a cost-effective option as there are several bus companies that provide service from various cities to Los Angeles. Greyhound is a popular choice with multiple bus stops within the city of Los Angeles.

Destination

Los Angeles

Welcome to the land of weird and quirky, where traffic is as inevitable as sunshine. Get ready to see some of the most iconic landmarks and indulge in the superfood trend of avocado toast.

 Save and get deals

Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

LA in 3 Days: Sweet, Glamorous, and Serene

A family friendly trip to Los Angeles, United States offers a perfect combination of entertainment, culture, and natural beauty. Explore world-famous attractions like Universal Studios, Disneyland, and the Hollywood Walk of Fame, guaranteed to delight both kids and adults. With its stunning beaches, such as Santa Monica and Venice, along with family-friendly museums like the California Science Center, LA promises an unforgettable experience for the entire family.

LA on a Budget: 3 Days of Fun!

Los Angeles is an exciting destination for those on a limited budget with a variety of free or low-cost activities to choose from. Sightseeing options are endless with iconic attractions like the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Griffith Observatory. Exploring the city's diverse neighborhoods and indulging in affordable street food is a must for any budget-conscious traveler.

Discover the Best of LA: 5 Days of Family Fun

A family-friendly trip to Los Angeles offers endless opportunities for fun and entertainment. Experience the magic of Disneyland and Universal Studios where kids can meet their favorite characters and enjoy thrilling rides. Explore the city's beautiful beaches, visit the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame, and take a trip to the Griffith Observatory for stunning views of the city skyline.

L.A. on a Budget: Beaches, Culture, and Fun

On a limited budget, a trip to Los Angeles can still be a great experience. Staying in affordable accommodations such as hostels or budget hotels, exploring free attractions like Griffith Park and the California Science Center, and trying out food trucks or grab-and-go meals can help keep costs down. With careful planning, it's possible to enjoy the city's sights and sounds without breaking the bank.