Hollywood, DTLA and Santa Monica Full-Day Walking and Metro Tour
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
L.A. is so big – how are you going to see the city in one day? Easy! Join our LA in a Day tour and see 3 completely different neighborhoods of the city - Hollywood, downtown and Santa Monica. There’s no breezing through on buses with a pre-recorded audio commentary playing (which is always out of sync), on this tour we show you the hidden nooks and crannies of the city that other tour companies don’t (including 7 different venues that have held the Academy Awards Ceremony) and give you a feel for the real Los Angeles.
We're pioneers of the all day metro and walking tour of Los Angeles. Why did we create it? Because we want you to feel like you're an Angeleno for the day and to fall in love with the city like we did.
* Tour starts 10 am daily
* Travel on Los Angeles Metro included in ticket price
* There’s a big range of food options and all types of diet can be accommodated (vegan, gluten-free etc)
Available options
Hollywood, DTLA and Santa Monica Full-Day Walking and Metro Tour
What's included
We donate $1 for every guest to a non-profit, Climate Cents.
We'll show you how to use the LA Metro - the easiest and cheapest mode of transport here.
Tour Guide
Travel on Los Angeles Metro is included in ticket price.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
We’ll start your LA in a Day tour in Hollywood (where else) and show you how and why L.A. became the center of the American entertainment industry. There’s a huge amount of fascinating movie history surrounding the famous Walk of Fame, including the oldest house in Hollywood (where Charlie Chaplin’s kids went to school), the Capitol Records Building, the Egyptian Theater, the Dolby Theater (home of the Oscars) and the TCL Chinese Theater, and you’ll learn about it all.
2
Stop 2
Experience this famous neighborhood at ground level and learn its fascinating history.
3
Stop 3
Pass by
See and learn about this icon of Los Angeles.
4
Stop 4
See the famous theatre and its forecourt of the stars. Take time to get some photos for Instagram while there too.
5
We take the subway to downtown – it’s actually the fastest way to get there. DTLA is where the city was founded, in 1781, and it has a huge number of iconic buildings, such as Los Angeles City Hall and the Walt Disney Concert Hall.
6
An icon of Art Deco design and famous from movies and TV shows.
7
A lovely part of DTLA.
8
Stop 8
One of the most influential modern buildings, in terms of design.
9
Stop 9
Pass by
Pass by this newest addition to the Grand Avenue cultural collection.
10
Stop 10
Take this historic funicular down from Bunker Hill.
11
Stop 11
We pause your LA in a Day tour for lunch at one of the top food destinations in America, Grand Central Market. There are a huge number of (very reasonably) priced options here and all types of diet can be accommodated. You'll love it.
12
Stop 12
Every week hip new restaurants, bars, Apple stores, creative offices and apartment blocks are opening in the area. Many people don’t realize it’s also the best-preserved historic downtown of any major city in America (with some of the best architecture in the world, including many beautiful examples of the Beaux Arts, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, modern and post-modern styles).
13
Step into this beautiful lobby from the 1920's (weekdays only).
14
Stop 14
Walk out onto this historic pier, built more than 100 years ago and often used as a location in classic movies.
15
Once in SaMo we’ll give you a tour of the area (including the famous Santa Monica Pier), before finishing your LA in a Day tour at 3rd Street Promenade, a perfect place to watch the sun set while enjoying cocktails and dinner. By now you’ll have had a real experience of Los Angeles and made some great memories to take home with you.
What's not included
Gratuities not included. Please allow 15-20%.
Lunch/Snacks are not included.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
3 reviews
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Tripadvisor
4.5
8 reviews
5★
7
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Aim to get to the meeting point 10-15 minutes early. If you’re late you may miss the tour.
This tour is not recommended for children under 12 y.o.
By making a booking for this tour you agree to be bound by The Real Los Angeles Tours terms of service.
We recommend ride-sharing or taking the metro to the meeting point, then you don't have to pay $30-40 to park your car all day (IF you're driving in LA).
Please check dates/times carefully BEFORE making a booking.
This is a walking tour and we move at a reasonable pace. If you have mobility issues please book a private tour via our website.
Meeting point
The guide will be will be checking-in guests from 15 minutes before the tour begins at the meeting point. The Pantages Theatre is right opposite Hollywood and Vine Metro Station. We CANNOT wait for latecomers, there are other guests.
Important notes
Thanks for making a booking with THE REAL LOS ANGELES TOURS.
This ticket has ALL the information that you'll need - PLEASE READ IT CAREFULLY!
PREPARATION
Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and layered clothing, it's often cool and breezy in Santa Monica, where the tour ends, even in summer.
Allow PLENTY of time to get to the meeting point. Remember that YOU'RE responsible for getting to the meeting point on time - not us.
TRANSPORT / PARKING
There's parking in Hollywood, but it can be hard-to-find and expensive, so please consider taking public transport. If you take the metro - or a taxi - then you won't have to return to Hollywood after the tour either.
MEETING THE GUIDE
The guide will be checking-in guests from 15 minutes before the tour at the entrance to the Pantages Theatre on Hollywood Boulevard.
Don't worry about us, we've been doing this 10 years - all you need to do is make sure you're there and we'll take care of the rest.
It's very likely there will be other guests on this tour, so we CANNOT hold for latecomers and there is NO phone or email help center, there's no point - you have all the info you need right here.
Please bring a paper or electronic copy of your ticket.
TIPS / GRATUITIES
Cashless payments for gratuities are available, please allow 15-20%.
FINALLY!
We're looking forward to creating an amazing experience for you.
About Los Angeles
Los Angeles is a vibrant, multicultural city known for its Hollywood glamour, sunny beaches, and diverse cultural attractions. From iconic landmarks to world-class dining and entertainment, LA offers a unique blend of urban excitement and natural beauty.
Top Attractions
Hollywood Walk of Fame
A must-visit for film and entertainment enthusiasts, the Hollywood Walk of Fame features over 2,700 stars embedded in the sidewalk, honoring celebrities in the entertainment industry.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Santa Monica Pier
An iconic beachfront amusement park with a Ferris wheel, roller coaster, and numerous rides, the Santa Monica Pier offers fun for all ages.
Entertainment
Half day
Free entry, rides cost extra
Griffith Observatory
A public observatory offering stunning views of the Los Angeles skyline and the Hollywood Sign, as well as educational exhibits about space and astronomy.
Nature
2-3 hours
Free (some exhibits and shows have fees)
The Getty Center
A world-renowned art museum featuring European paintings, drawings, sculptures, illuminated manuscripts, decorative arts, and photographs.
Museum
Half day
Free (parking fee applies)
Venice Beach
A vibrant beach community known for its boardwalk, street performers, and eclectic shops, as well as its beautiful sandy beaches.
Beach
Half day
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fish Tacos
A popular street food item featuring grilled or fried fish in a tortilla, topped with salsa and crema.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made with various types of fish, vegetarian options available.
Korean BBQ
A staple of LA's Korean food scene, featuring marinated meats grilled at the table and served with side dishes.
Dinner
Contains meat, vegetarian options available at some restaurants.
Avocado Toast
A trendy dish featuring toasted bread topped with mashed avocado, often garnished with eggs, tomatoes, or other toppings.
Breakfast/Brunch
Vegetarian, vegan options available.
Tacos al Pastor
A traditional Mexican taco featuring marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit and served on corn tortillas with pineapple.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains pork, vegetarian options available at some restaurants.
Popular Activities
Hiking in Griffith Park
Rock climbing in Joshua Tree National Park
Surfing in Malibu
Beach day in Santa Monica
Spa day in Beverly Hills
Yoga in Venice Beach
Visiting museums in Downtown LA
Exploring historic sites in Olvera Street
Best Time to Visit
April to May, September to November
The peak seasons offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities. This is the best time to visit for comfortable sightseeing and exploring the city's attractions.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Tagalog
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Pacific Time Zone (PT), GMT-8 (Standard Time), GMT-7 (Daylight Saving Time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
LA is generally safe for tourists, but some areas can be risky, especially at night. Stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious at night and in less touristy areas
- • Use reputable tour operators and transportation services
Getting there
By air
- Los Angeles International Airport • 20 km from city center
- Bob Hope Airport • 30 km from city center
By train
Union Station
By bus
Union Station, Greyhound Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The Metro Rail system includes several subway and light rail lines that cover most of the city. It's a convenient and affordable way to get around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Hollywood
Santa Monica
Downtown LA
Venice
Beverly Hills
Day trips
Santa Barbara
150 km from LA • Full day
A charming coastal city known for its Spanish architecture, wineries, and beautiful beaches.
Disneyland Resort
50 km from LA • Full day
A world-famous theme park featuring Disney characters, rides, and attractions for all ages.
Joshua Tree National Park
200 km from LA • Full day or overnight
A unique desert landscape featuring iconic Joshua trees, rock formations, and hiking trails.
Festivals
Hollywood Bowl Summer Concert Series • June to September
LA Pride • June
LA County Fair • September to October
Pro tips
- Use public transportation or walk whenever possible to avoid traffic and parking issues
- Book tickets in advance for popular attractions and events
- Explore beyond the tourist hotspots for a more local experience
- Be prepared for traffic and congestion, especially during peak hours
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, as LA can be hot and sunny year-round
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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