- West Hollywood: between Hollywood and Beverly Hills, full of restaurants and bars, with easy access in several directions. The most balanced choice for a first trip.
- Hollywood: good if you want to be right by the Walk of Fame and near Universal Studios; busy and noisy.
- Santa Monica: good if the beach comes first. The Metro E Line runs from here to Downtown.
LA is huge, so plan your days by area (one day at the beach, one in Hollywood…) to avoid spending hours in the car.