Full Day in Los Angeles Combo package 5.5 Hour + 2 Hour Tour

Travelers planning a trip to Los Angeles often wrestle with the question: how do you see the best of this sprawling city in one day? This Full Day in Los Angeles Combo Tour aims to bundle some of the most iconic sights, celebrity culture, and local hotspots into one 7.5-hour adventure. Offered by Hollywood Bus Tours, it’s designed for those who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, celebrity spotting, and a taste of LA’s vibrant neighborhoods—all with the convenience of a guided open-air bus experience.

What we love about this tour is its combination approach—it’s not just a quick drive-by but a well-rounded look at LA’s highlights, topped with an exciting tour of celebrity homes. The inclusion of lunch at The Original Farmer’s Market, a beloved local spot, adds genuine flavor and variety. And, if you’ve got a passion for celebrity culture, the second part of the day—a dedicated 2-hour celebrity homes tour—offers a behind-the-scenes peek at some of Hollywood’s most famous residences.

One possible drawback is that the schedule can feel a bit tight, especially if you’re hoping to linger longer at each stop. Several reviews note that the amount of time spent at each location varies, and some guests felt they missed out on exploring more in-depth. Plus, the tour is quite popular—so booking ahead and being punctual are wise.

This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive, guided overview of Los Angeles without the hassle of navigating on their own. It’s ideal for first-timers, families, or anyone who appreciates getting a lot of sights in one day with friendly, knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary covering major LA sights, neighborhoods, and celebrity homes
• Comfortable open-air bus for unobstructed views and photo opportunities
• Lunch stop at The Grove/Original Farmer’s Market with over 80 dining options
• Highlights include Santa Monica Pier, Hollywood Walk of Fame, Beverly Hills, and Griffith Observatory
• Expert guides provide insights, tips, and a fun sense of humor
• Flexible scheduling allows the celebrity homes tour to be split or combined with the day’s main tour

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This full-day adventure is designed for travelers who want to see as much of Los Angeles as possible in one go. Starting at the Hollywood Visitor Center, the journey kicks off around 10:00 AM, with a guide leading the way through LA’s most recognizable landmarks. Throughout the day, you’ll hop on and off the bus at carefully chosen stops, giving you brief but meaningful encounters with the city’s culture and scenery.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins with the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a legendary stretch embedded with over 2,500 stars honoring celebrities from film, TV, music, and radio. It’s a lively spot full of souvenir stalls and street performers, and a must-see for first-time visitors. From there, the guide points out movie locations and interesting tidbits about Hollywood’s history, making the experience both fun and educational.

Next, the bus glides down The Sunset Strip, famous for its vibrant nightlife, historic music venues like the Whisky a Go Go, and a magnet for celebrities. Driving through West Hollywood, you get a glimpse of the area’s chic boutiques and bustling streets. The tour then moves into Beverly Hills, with commentary about its real estate and exclusivity. You’ll cruise past Rodeo Drive, where luxury shopping and paparazzi are often in full display.

An essential part of the day is the drive-by of Bel Air and a visit to the Getty Center (from outside), offering impressive architecture and sweeping city views. The bus then arrives at Santa Monica Pier, a lively hub with carnival rides, street performers, and shops. Guests have about an hour here to stroll, grab a snack, or just soak in the ocean views.

After Santa Monica, the route continues through Culver City and past Sony Pictures, giving a behind-the-scenes vibe of Hollywood’s entertainment industry. The tour then takes you to The Grove/Original Farmer’s Market for a well-earned lunch break. With over 80 eateries, you can choose from everything—whether classic American, international cuisines, or fresh produce.

Post-lunch, the guide leads you past Melrose Avenue, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), and the Petersen Automotive Museum—each offering a glimpse into LA’s diverse cultural scene and pop-culture staples. The final stop before the celebrity homes tour is Griffith Observatory, perched atop Griffith Park, offering panoramic views of LA and the Hollywood Sign.

The Celebrity Homes Tour

The last leg is a 2-hour outdoor bus tour of celebrity neighborhoods. In an open-air vehicle, you’ll pass by homes of stars such as Tom Cruise, Katy Perry, Leonardo DiCaprio, Elvis Presley (via some legendary estates), and more. The guide shares stories and insights about the Hollywood elite’s residences, making it a highlight for fans.

You’ll also make a quick stop at the Beverly Hills Sign for photos, rounding out your celebrity-spotting experience. The combination of expert commentary and the chance to see some of the city’s most exclusive neighborhoods makes this part of the tour memorable.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The expert guides are frequently praised for their knowledge and humor. One traveler mentions Jeff, who kept the mood lively with dad jokes and practical tips, making the experience both informative and fun. The views from Griffith Observatory are also a recurring compliment, with many noting it’s the best spot to see LA’s sprawling cityscape and the Hollywood Sign.

The lunch at The Grove gets high marks for variety and atmosphere. It’s a lively, authentic local experience, far from the tourist traps, with plenty of options to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

On the downside, some reviews point out that the pace can be rushed, especially during longer stops like Santa Monica or Griffith Observatory. One guest felt that more time at each site would allow for a deeper appreciation, rather than just a snapshot.

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Value for Money

Considering the 7.5-hour duration, the inclusion of multiple key sights, and the celebrity homes tour, many travelers find this package offers good value—especially for those wanting a comprehensive introduction to LA without renting cars or planning multiple tours. The ability to split the celebrity homes tour into another day adds flexibility.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This combo tour is perfect for first-timers eager to cover LA’s highlights with a guide who can add context and stories. It’s also ideal for those who want a hassle-free way to see the city’s iconic landmarks along with a peek into celebrity neighborhoods. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will appreciate the mix of sightseeing, culture, and entertainment.

However, if you’re a repeat visitor or someone looking for a more leisurely exploration, you might find the schedule a bit packed. The tour’s emphasis on views, celebrity culture, and lively stops makes it fun, but not the best choice if you prefer slow, in-depth visits.

Overall, if you’re after a well-organized, engaging, and relatively affordable way to get a broad taste of Los Angeles in one day, this tour does a good job. Just remember to bring your camera, some cash, and patience for a full day of LA adventure.

FAQ

How long is the full tour?
The entire experience lasts about 7.5 hours, including sightseeing, lunch, and the celebrity homes tour.

Can I split the celebrity homes tour from the main tour?
Yes, you can do the 2-hour celebrity homes tour on a different day. After booking, contact Hollywood Bus Tours to schedule it separately.

What is included in the main tour?
The main tour covers LA’s top sights like Hollywood Walk of Fame, Sunset Strip, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica Pier, and Griffith Observatory, along with a stop for lunch at The Grove.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and offers a lively, engaging experience suitable for all ages, especially with plenty of photo opportunities and fun commentary.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera for photos, some cash for souvenirs or snacks, and wear comfortable clothing and shoes for walking and outdoor stops.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for last-minute adjustments.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
This tour is offered in English only, with live guides providing commentary throughout.

In essence, this full-day LA tour offers a comprehensive, lively introduction to the city’s stars, scenery, and neighborhoods. It’s a wise choice for those wanting to maximize their time and get a genuine feel for Hollywood and beyond—all seen through the lens of friendly, knowledgeable guides.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby