A Guide to European Summer in LA
Curated By
Clara Raposo
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Arts & Culture
Boutique Travel
City Travel
California
Los Angeles
Entertainment
Shopping
Sightseeing
Curator’s statement
While European summer vacations may be on everyone's radar, causing hotels and attractions to be booked to the brim, fear not! Los Angeles offers a delightful alternative, brimming with activities and eateries that exude a European vibe. This guide is your passport to experiencing a European-inspired getaway without crossing the Atlantic. So, immerse yourself in the cosmopolitan charm of Los Angeles and discover the captivating fusion of European flair and Californian allure right in the city of Angels!
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Things to do in Los Angeles
Getty Villa
Modeled after the Villa dei Papiri in Herculaneum, Italy, the Getty Villa in Malibu houses Ancient Greek and Roman art amidst gorgeous gardens and traditional Italian architecture.
Smorgasborg
Europe is no stranger to massive food markets like TimeOut Market in Lisbon or Seven Dials Market in London. Well, get ready for the outdoor LA version with Smorgasborg at the Row DTLA.
Picnic in the Park
Pick up some picnic provisions from Wine + Eggs in Atwater Village or Fatty Mart on the West Side and head to a scenic LA park! I recommend Exposition Park Rose Garden, Silver Lake Meadows or Barnsdall Art Park.
Visit Catalina Island
Coined the Amalfi Coast of California, Avalon on Catalina Island is the perfect day trip when staying in the LA area. Catch the Catalina Express from the Long Beach or San Pedro ports!
Places to eat & drink in Los Angeles
Capri Club - Italian Aperitivo bar in Eagle Rock with an old school vibe and a lively atmosphere.
Barra Santos - New and tiny Portuguese restaurant/wine bar with traditional flavors and an extensive wine list.
Greekman’s - Highly rated by locals and tourists alike, this lively spot serves up the best of Greek flavors with noticeably fresh ingredients.
Petit Trois - Crowd favorite French eatery with a buzzing atmosphere and an impeccable menu.
Taverna Tony - Greek eats in Malibu with outdoor seating, generous portions and live music and dancers on Saturdays.
Bianca - Enjoy delicious French and Italian pastries and dishes at this Culver City bakery and restaurant.
Garçons de Café - Live jazz and special chef dinners make this cozy wine and coffee bar stand out.
La Pharmacie du Vin - This wine bar and shop features wooden walls lined with bottles and a super French outdoor seating area.
Antico Nuovo - Decadent Italian fare with excellent service in a classy, but cool environment.
Need to Know
Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, A Local’s Kid-Friendly Guide to Santa Barbara, CA.
Travel Advisor
Clara Raposo
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to California.