Hollywood offers a mix of history, culture, and, of course, the thrill of possibly spotting a celebrity. Among the myriad of things to do, one of the most popular and quintessential experiences is taking a Hollywood bus tour. These tours provide an insider’s view of Tinseltown, taking you to the heart of where movie magic happens.

Here’s a guide to the Top 10 sites to see on a Hollywood Bus Tour

Perched high on Mount Lee in the Hollywood Hills, the Hollywood Sign is perhaps the most iconic symbol of the entertainment industry. Originally erected in 1923 as an advertisement for a real estate development, it has since become a cultural landmark recognized worldwide. The sign’s letters stand 45 feet tall and span 350 feet across, making it visible from many parts of the city. Bus tours typically stop at popular viewpoints, such as the Griffith Observatory, where visitors can take in breath taking views of the sign along with sweeping panoramas of Los Angeles. Seeing the Hollywood Sign is a must-do for anyone visiting the area for the first time, as it represents the dream and allure of the entertainment capital.

The TCL Chinese Theatre, located on Hollywood Boulevard, is one of the most famous movie theatre’s in the world. Opened in 1927, it has hosted countless star-studded film premieres, making it a site rich with Hollywood history. The theatre is perhaps best known for its Forecourt of the Stars, where over 200 handprints, footprints, and autographs of Hollywood’s biggest stars are immortalized in concrete. Visitors can stand where legends like Marilyn Monroe, John Wayne, and Tom Hanks left their mark. Inside, the opulent decor and state-of-the-art IMAX technology offer an unforgettable movie-going experience. The theatre is a quintessential stop on any Hollywood tour, giving visitors a direct connection to the golden age of cinema.

Stretching for 15 blocks along Hollywood Boulevard, the Hollywood Walk of Fame is a tribute to the stars of the entertainment industry. With more than 2,600 brass stars embedded in the sidewalks, it honours celebrities from film, television, music, radio, and theatre. Walking along the Walk of Fame is like taking a stroll through Hollywood history, where you can find the names of legends like Michael Jackson, Audrey Hepburn, and Elvis Presley. Each star represents a different story, and many tours offer detailed anecdotes about the careers and lives of the stars honoured here. For first-time visitors, this is a must-see attraction that captures the essence of Hollywood’s star-studded legacy.

A visit to Beverly Hills offers a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of Hollywood’s elite. This world-famous neighbourhood is home to sprawling mansions, manicured lawns, and streets lined with palm trees. Bus tours often wind through the area’s residential streets, pointing out the homes of current and past celebrities. A stop on Rodeo Drive, the epicentre of high-end shopping, is also a highlight. Even if you’re not shopping for designer goods, the street’s glamorous boutiques and elegant architecture are a sight to behold. Rodeo Drive has appeared in countless films and TV shows, making it a cultural landmark in its own right. A visit to Beverly Hills is a step into the world of wealth and fame that defines Hollywood.

Sunset Boulevard is more than just a street; it’s a legendary stretch of road that embodies the spirit of Hollywood. Known for its vibrant nightlife, the boulevard is home to iconic music venues like the Whisky a Go Go and The Roxy, which have hosted some of the biggest names in rock and roll. As the tour bus cruises down Sunset, visitors get a sense of the boulevard’s rich history, from its glamorous past as a hub for the movie industry to its role in the counterculture movement of the 1960s and 70s. Today, it remains a hotspot for dining, entertainment, and celebrity sightings. Exploring Sunset Boulevard is like taking a journey through the many eras of Hollywood, each marked by its own unique culture and style.

The Hollywood Hills are famous for their breath taking views and, more notably, for being the home to many of Hollywood’s biggest stars. Nestled in these hills are sprawling estates and modern mansions owned by celebrities past and present. Bus tours through the Hollywood Hills offer a behind-the-scenes look at where the rich and famous reside. Guides often share stories about the stars who live there, as well as the history of the homes themselves. While privacy is respected, these tours provide a rare glimpse into the lives of those who have achieved the Hollywood dream. The allure of possibly spotting a celebrity adds an extra layer of excitement to this part of the tour.

Universal Studios Hollywood offers an immersive experience into the world of filmmaking. Part movie studio, part theme park, it provides visitors with a behind-the-scenes look at how movies and TV shows are made. The Studio Tour, a highlight of any visit, takes guests through working sets, including famous ones like the Bates Motel from Psycho and Wisteria Lane from Desperate Housewives. In addition to the studio aspect, the theme park offers thrilling rides and attractions based on popular movies, such as Jurassic World and Harry Potter. For anyone interested in the magic of movies, Universal Studios Hollywood is an essential stop, offering both entertainment and education.

Known as “The Pink Palace,” The Beverly Hills Hotel has been a favourite of Hollywood’s elite since it opened in 1912. Its iconic pink facade and lush gardens make it one of the most photographed hotels in the world. The hotel has hosted countless celebrities over the years, and its Polo Lounge is famous as a meeting spot for Hollywood power players. Tours often include a stop or a drive-by, with guides sharing stories of the many famous guests who have stayed there. The Beverly Hills Hotel is not just a place to stay; it’s a symbol of the glamour and history of Hollywood itself, representing over a century of luxury and celebrity culture.

Griffith Observatory offers more than just an excellent view of the stars—it’s also one of the best places to view the Hollywood Sign and the Los Angeles skyline. Located on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood, the observatory is both a public facility and a beloved Los Angeles landmark. Its Art Deco architecture and scientific exhibits draw visitors from around the world. On clear nights, visitors can look through the observatory’s telescopes to gaze at the real stars, making it a perfect blend of Hollywood glamour and natural wonder. The site has also been featured in numerous films, making it an essential stop for film buffs and stargazers alike.

The Chateau Marmont on Sunset Boulevard is steeped in Hollywood lore, known for its celebrity clientele and storied past. Built in 1929, this historic hotel has been the site of countless parties, scandals, and even tragedies involving Hollywood’s biggest names. Its Gothic-inspired architecture and secluded atmosphere make it a favourite hideaway for stars seeking privacy. Tours that pass by the Chateau Marmont often include tales of the infamous events that took place there, offering a glimpse into the more secretive side of Hollywood life. For those fascinated by Hollywood’s darker history, the Chateau Marmont is a must-see landmark that continues to captivate both locals and tourists.

Visiting Hollywood is like stepping into a world where the dreams of stardom come to life. From the iconic Hollywood Sign to the luxury of Beverly Hills, each stop on a Hollywood bus tour offers a unique piece of the entertainment industry’s rich tapestry.

Whether you’re a film buff, a history enthusiast, or just curious about the lives of the rich and famous, Hollywood has something to offer everyone. These top 10 sites encapsulate the essence of what makes Hollywood an enduring symbol of glamour and fantasy.