10 Most Popular Neighbourhoods in Los Angeles

Hollywood is arguably the entertainment capital of the world. Here, you’ll find excitement as soon as you leave the hotel and easily learn that Tinseltown is larger than life. That’s because some of Los Angeles' top attractions are right there. For one, having your photo taken with the Hollywood Sign is on the bucket list of most visitors.

In Hollywood, you’ll also find highlights like Ripley's Believe It or Not, Capitol Records, a variety of wax museums, the Walk of Fame – you name it. Why go home? You might be spotted by a talent scout and eventually extend your vacation forever. For something a little different, try the Museum of Broken Relationships, which is full of break-up paraphernalia. You'll find handwritten notes of tenderness and/or hate, submitted by the very person who received it.

Koreatown is a haven for young people. It offers an array of unique dining and nightlife options, plus it's easy to get around on foot. This makes for a relaxed atmosphere where the dining is diverse, and the living is easy.

The area is famous for its karaoke spots like Cafe Brass Monkey, but there are plenty of lively nightclubs as well. Koreatown has a tight-knit community, and that comes out in the number of locally run establishments. Loads of enthusiastic, self-made success has made this a great spot to visit or stay in Los Angeles.

Silver Lake is an ideal neighbourhood for the young and the hip, and it's as cosy as it gets. Come for the winding streets and intoxicating atmosphere and stay for all the things you can do. Silver Lake has independently owned shops, vegan food, and gourmet coffee everywhere.

The nightlife choices are nothing short of Dionysian, so easily do the wine and good times flow. The neighbourhood feels like another world, thanks to all the 20th-century architecture. Its integration with the natural scenery means there is always a gorgeous walk you haven't taken yet. If you can make it, Silver Lake is absolutely the place to chill.

Downtown Long Beach is like a seaside stroll that never ends. The wide streets and abundance of greenery keep things feeling grounded. Bars are everywhere, and there's always a place that's walkable from where you are. Public transport has got your back, as it often runs through the neighbourhood.

Residents rank Downtown Long Beach as a bike and dog-friendly neighbourhood. Those who stay in the neighbourhood get the best of the city and beach without enduring  Los Angeles' notorious traffic. Go for one of the hotels by the water if you can and visit the Aquarium of the Pacific while you're here.

Downtown Los Angeles is a residential neighbourhood and in many ways one of the centres of the world. The neighbourhood gives New York City a run for its money when it comes to combining urban bustle and cosmopolitan class.

You've never had an espresso quite like the one at New Zealander-founded Two Guns Espresso, nor have you been this close to the home of a legendary basketball team as you will be to the Staples Center. The only problem you'll have is choosing where to experience the nightlife, but any choice in Downtown is guaranteed to be a good one.

Atwater Village is a comfortable retreat from the busier parts of Los Angeles. This neighbourhood is for those who are okay with sacrificing a wide choice of nightlife if it means being surrounded by independently owned establishments. You could almost call it suburban, but that doesn't keep it from being exceptionally walkable. Fun attractions and activities are scattered liberally throughout the neighbourhood.

Boasting an array of local flavours from a vibrant, multicultural community, Atwater Village will satiate your appetite and then some, while a selection of gastropubs keeps the good times rolling. Hotels aren't as easy to come by here, so you can enjoy most of what makes Los Angeles special without the usual tourist crowds.

Beverly Grove and Fairfax are great for shoppers visiting and staying in Los Angeles. These are the places to be if you're trying to get away from hipsters. At the centre of Beverly Grove is its famous farmer's market, home to some of the best eating in all of Los Angeles. There's also The Grove, an outdoor mall where an entire day can pass in an instant. There’s nothing like shopping in the great outdoors.

Nearby Fairfax has even more amazing dining options like Jon & Vinny's, a local favourite that has got you covered for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The local Jewish community makes Fairfax a great culinary escape for New Yorkers who are feeling a bit nostalgic.

Culver City is a residential mecca in Los Angeles that has new attractions, restaurants, and galleries opening all the time. See what's on the forefront of the art scene at Thinkspace, a gallery devoted to the work of young artists. Try Blind Barber if you'd like a drink with your haircut or shave – the first one is complimentary.

Those only passing through should consider the Culver Hotel for its historical ambience. This part of town wasn't always the safest, but nowadays, it's a wonderful place for the whole family to enjoy their trip to the Los Angeles area.

Elysian Heights is a residential neighbourhood so tucked away in greenery, you might find it hard to believe that it's very close to Los Angeles' city centre. Home to highly-rated local elementary schools and a diverse population, this is a suitable place to catch a glimpse of suburban bliss.

Elysian Heights is part of the larger Echo Park area, where you can find plenty of things to do. El Prado is a no-fuss wine and beer bar, while Wildflower Trail offers beautiful scenery and stunning views for those keen for an evening jog.

Highland Park is a hipster's paradise in the greater Los Angeles area. In truth, this area has always been an artistic and cultural centre. Seeing trendy establishments next to hundred-year-old houses is undoubtedly part of its charm.

There’s no shortage of places for coffee and drinks in Highland Park, such as Civil Coffee and Sonny's Hideaway. Be sure to check out SugarMynt Gallery, the location of the original Michael Myers house from Halloween (1978). The house now holds local art – being there feels like being at a private and intimate house party. Make sure to check out their movie nights, too.