Los Angeles: our favorite places to stay

Published by Pat Dorri on March 1 2024

Decide to stay in Los Angeles and you can expect a blend of world-class entertainment, delicious culinary experiences, and iconic landmarks. From the glittering lights of Hollywood to the beaches of Malibu, you'll fall in love with the Southern California lifestyle.

During a visit to Los Angeles, you can celebrity hunt along Hollywood Walk of Fame, view the city from Griffith Observatory, explore artwork at Getty Center or check out Venice Beach. It's a trip packed with something for everyone.

Read on for our favorite places to stay from each category below, or click the links to skip to the hotel type you're looking for:

Luxury hotels in Los Angeles
Boutique and unique hotels in Los Angeles
Budget hotels in Los Angeles
Family-friendly hotels in Los Angeles

Where should I stay in Los Angeles?

Our favorite hotels in Los Angeles are all shown on the map below.

Click the icons to see each hotel's name, its category, and a quick link that takes you straight to more information further down the page.

Our favorite luxury hotels in Los Angeles

Looking for an unforgettable journey to Los Angeles that exceeds your expectations? Then consider staying at one of the city's top luxury hotels. Here are our recommended choices for a memorable stay!

The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles

'The Elegant One'

📍 900 West Olympic Boulevard, Downtown Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90015, United States

The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles, offers a lavish experience, with panoramic views of the city and the height of sophistication.

Contemporary bar and seating area at The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles — Unwind in the stunning bar at The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles. The perfect spot to enjoy a signature cocktail.
© The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles

Why we love staying at The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles

Feel like a celebrity as you enter the luxurious and elegant surroundings of this renowned five-star hotel. Here is what else we think is great here.

Luxurious spacious rooms with marble bathrooms, and floor-to-ceiling windows.
A rooftop heated swimming pool and hot tub with panoramic city and mountain views
State-of-art fitness and wellness center to enjoy during your stay
A great location, just a block away from the Staples Center and other top attractions

What is there to do close to The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles?

The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles, is ideally situated near the Staples Center, L.A. Live, and the Grammy Museum, making it a prime location for guests seeking entertainment, sports, and cultural experiences right at their doorstep.

Grammy Museum - An interactive, educational museum dedicated to the history and winners of the Grammy Awards.
California Plaza - Lively outdoor venue hosting cultural events in downtown Los Angeles.
The Museum of Contemporary Art Los Angeles - Premier destination for contemporary art enthusiasts.
The Broad - Innovative museum showcasing post-war and contemporary art collections.
California Science Center - Interactive exhibits and home to the Space Shuttle Endeavour.

Click here for more information about The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles

Hotel Per La, Autograph Collection

'The Historic One'

📍 649 South Olive Street, Downtown Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90014, United States

Staying at Hotel Per La, Autograph Collection, offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern luxury, with stylish rooms, exceptional service, and a prime downtown location.

Stunning, stylish, rooftop pool, with plush seating and unusual dragon-face feature, with city views. — Head to the rooftop pool, where incredible style and skyline views meet.
© Hotel Per La, Autograph Collection

Why we love staying at Hotel Per La, Autograph Collection

Centrally located, this plush hotel is an exceptional stay, while their dedicated team delivers first-class service. Here is what else we think is great here.

Choice of where to dine, with ground-floor restaurant and bar, daytime café, or rooftop bar.
Designed by the French architect Jacques Garcia, marvel at the exclusive artwork in each room.
On the rooftop, guests can enjoy panoramic views of downtown Los Angeles from Bar Clara.
Fancy a pick-me-up? Enjoy a cup of coffee at the pretty outdoor café.
Check out the mirrored tunnel, a must-pass route within the hotel to take a snap!

What is there to do close to Hotel Per La, Autograph Collection?

Found on the lively intersection of 7th and Olive Street in Downtown LA, Hotel Per La occupies the historic Giannini Building, and is close by to many fabulous places.

The Museum of Contemporary Art Los Angeles - Showcases cutting-edge contemporary art.
The Broad - An extensive collection oficonic works by renowned artists.
Capitol Records Building - An iconic landmark, renowned for its distinctive cylindrical design.
Japanese American National Museum - Preserves and shares the history and cultural heritage of Japanese Americans.
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County - A captivating museum with exhibits on natural history and scientific discovery.

Click here for more information about Hotel Per La, Autograph Collection

Our favorite boutique hotel in Los Angeles

Elevate your Los Angeles adventure by choosing one of the city's more unique hotels for your stay. Here, you're guaranteed an unforgettable experience as a base for exploring this amazing city.

citizenM Los Angeles Downtown

'The Trendy One'

📍 361 South Spring Street, Downtown Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90013, United States

At citizenM Los Angeles Downtown, expect a modern, tech-savvy stay with stylish rooms and a prime location for exploring the city's attractions.

Brightly coloured lounge area, with modern art and bright seating at citizenM Los Angeles Downtown

Relax in the welcoming lounges at citizenM Los Angeles Downtown. The perfect place to planning out the next stage of your trip.

Why we love staying at citizenM Los Angeles Downtown

Enjoy affordable luxury with a stay at citizenM Los Angeles Downtown. Here are some of the reasons we think this hotel is a great find.

Control your in-room experience using the app or MoodPad, which operates the TV, lighting, temperature, and blackout blinds.
Indulge in movie nights with complimentary popcorn from canteenM.
Enjoy a hot and cold breakfast buffet, even picky eaters will enjoy it!
The hotel is perfectly located within walking distance to many popular attractions.

What is there to do close to citizenM Los Angeles Downtown?

citizenM Los Angeles Downtown serves as a convenient gateway to the Broadway Theater District and Little Tokyo, and many other great LA top attractions.

Japanese American National Museum - Illuminates the rich history and cultural contributions of Japanese Americans.
El Pueblo De Los Angeles Historical Monument - Preserves the city's origins with historic buildings and a bustling marketplace.
Grammy Museum - A captivating destination celebrating the history and impact of music.
California Science Center - Offers educational exhibits and thrilling experiences for all ages.

Click here for more information about citizenM Los Angeles Downtown

Our favorite budget hotel in Los Angeles

Looking to spend most of your time, and money, on exploring the amazing Los Angeles? Then there are some great budget options if you are looking for somewhere cheaper but still very cheerful. Here is our favourite.

Arroyo Vista Inn

'The Charming One'

📍 335 Monterey Road, Los Angeles, CA 91030, United States

Arroyo Vista Inn offers a charming and tranquil retreat, providing a home-away-from-home experience.

View of traditional afternoon tea at Arroyo Vista Inn, with garden views — Make sure to book in a slot for Tea Time during your stay at Arroyo Vista Inn.
© Arroyo Vista Inn, Los Angeles

Why we love staying at Arroyo Vista Inn

Arroyo Vista Inn is a delightful Bed & Breakfast, with ten inviting rooms in this charming, historic, craftsman home. Here are some other great aspects of the inn.

Stunning mountain views from many of the rooms.
Experience delicious traditional afternoon tea here, with delightful pastries, sandwiches, and scones.
Unwind and enjoy the picturesque views from the pretty outdoor spaces.
Relax on the veranda and porch, with views of the San Gabriel Mountains.

What is there to do close to Arroyo Vista Inn?

Discover a more authentic and less-explored side of LA, with superb dining options and cultural sites right around the corner. Here are some of our top sites to explore.

Norton Simon Museum - An exquisite collection featuring European and Asian art and sculptures.
Pasadena Museum of History - An exploration of the city's rich heritage through exhibits and historic artifacts.
Old Pasadena - Preserved architecture, eclectic boutiques and authentic dining can be found here.
El Pueblo De Los Angeles Historical Monument - Historic buildings, cultural events, and a bustling marketplace.
South Pasadena Nature Park - A serene urban retreat, with walking trails, and a peaceful atmosphere.

Click here for more information about Arroyo Vista Inn

Our favorite family-friendly hotel in Los Angeles

Bringing the whole family to explore Los Angeles? There's numerous family-friendly accommodation to choose from, keep reading to see our top pick that caters to everyone in your group.

Ambrose Hotel

'The Stylish One'

📍 1255 20th Street, Santa Monica, Los Angeles, CA 90404, United States

Check into Ambrose Hotel and you can expect stylish accommodation, fit for all the family, in the heart of Santa Monica.

Outdoor dining area in the sunshine at Ambrose Hotel, Los Angeles — Head for lunch on the stunning outdoor patio, and enjoy mezze sharing plates and wine sampling.
© Ambrose Hotel

Why we love staying at Ambrose Hotel

The Ambrose Hotel's is the perfect base for the whole family during your visit to LA. Here are some reasons we think everyone will enjoy their stay.

Stunning room and lounges, decorated with bright artwork, fireplace, and books.
Choose one of the rooms with a terrace, ideal for relaxing after a day exploring.
Enjoy a complimentary breakfast, or check out 24/7 room service.
Take advantage of the free transportation within 5 km of Ambrose Hotel.

What is there to do close to Ambrose Hotel?

The Ambrose Hotel is just minutes from the vibrant energy of downtown Santa Monica. Here are some top places to visit.

Santa Monica Beach - A sun-kissed haven on the Pacific coast, with iconic pier and lively atmosphere.
Santa Monica Pier Aquarium - An educational marine oasis, showcases coastal sea life through interactive exhibits.
Palisades Park - Manicured gardens, ocean panoramas, and scenic pathways in the heart of Santa Monica.
Venice Beach Boardwalk - Enjoy street performers, lively shops, and the iconic Muscle Beach here.
Getty Center - Houses an impressive art collection, stunning architecture, and views over Los Angeles.

Click here for more information Ambrose Hotel