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When it comes to iconic US cities, LA is up there with the very best. Hollywood glamour, high-fashion shopping cultural attractions and high-end dining are just some of the draws. It’s a city of diverse neighborhoods, each offering something exciting. Feast on international eats at Grand Central Market, downtown LA’s legendary food market; immerse yourself in music exhibits and memorabilia at the Grammy Museum or window shop on Rodeo Drive. More of an outdoorsy person? Take a spin to Runyon Canyon and hike the trail to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with cityscape views at Cloud’s Rest.
It’s best to have your own mode of transport when it comes to exploring the 500-square-mile city, so consider a rental car for full freedom. No visit to LA is complete without driving along Mulholland Drive or Sunset Boulevard. You can go celeb-spotting in Beverly Hills or cruise along the 75 miles of sunny coastline, from Malibu to lively Manhattan Beach. And of course, a visit to Petersen Automotive Museum is a must for both front and backseat drivers. Forget about relying on Ubers to get from A-Z in LA and take full advantage of being at the wheel…
Renting a car in LA is usually a breeze, but follow these top tips to navigate the City of Angels like a local (LA has some unique driving rules!) and get the best Los Angeles car rental deals available.
This iconic drive might only be 1.5 miles long, but you’ll see every ounce of what makes up the soul of Los Angeles as you cruise along. You’ll drive past famous spots such as Whisky A Go Go (made famous in the ’60s by bands like The Doors) and catch glimpses of various characters, from movie stars to headbangers.
The Pacific Coast Highway drive (or PCH, as it’s known to locals) is a quintessential California coastal drive. You’ll see surfers, sunbathers and million dollar mansions along the route. Plus, you won’t need a map to navigate; simply drive north from Santa Monica and then head back the way you came.
Palos Verdes might not get the tourism fame of Santa Monica, Venice or Malibu in Los Angeles promotions, but that’s a good thing, as it keeps it beautifully rural. This route is a hidden gem when it comes to LA drives. Brace yourself for winding roads, Palos Verdes cliffs, miles of coastline, sandy beaches and ocean views around almost every turn.
This 67-mile route brings you from the desert through the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains, before descending down again to the desert. You’ll drive past snow-capped peaks, rocky boulders and pine trees – all in under two hours.
Angeles Crest Scenic Byway winds for 55 miles along the San Gabriel Mountains, with amazing views of nearby mountains, the Mojave desert and valleys. Pack a picnic lunch to stop at one of the many viewpoints along the way. Plus, the entrance to this byway is just minutes away from the city.
Keep an eye out for your favorite stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame as you drive along Hollywood Boulevard. The area is a major tourist attraction, thanks to the landmark Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel and Dolby Theatre, home of the Oscars.