Holiday in California
Region in USA — tips, highlights & best time to visit 🇺🇸
Country
USA
Type
Region
Best time to travel
April–October (summer dry and warm), September–October (Indian summer)
Budget/day
$150–250
Getting there from Germany
Direct flights from Frankfurt to Los Angeles or San Francisco (approx. 11–12 hours). Rental cars are essential for road trips.
Deals for California:
What makes California special as a destination?
California is the epitome of the American dream — a state that enchants every traveler with its 1,350 km of coastline, snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada, and glamorous metropolises like Los Angeles and San Francisco. The Golden State combines more scenic and cultural diversity than many countries. San Francisco delights with the Golden Gate Bridge, Victorian houses, and a vibrant foodie scene. Los Angeles attracts with Hollywood, Venice Beach, and the legendary sunset at Santa Monica Pier. San Diego offers a relaxed surfer lifestyle and the world-famous zoo. Highway 1 along the Pacific coast is considered one of the most spectacular coastal roads in the world. California's natural wonders are equally impressive: Yosemite National Park with its massive granite cliffs, the giant sequoias in Sequoia National Park, Death Valley as the hottest place on Earth, and the surreal desert landscape of Joshua Tree. Additionally, the wine regions of Napa Valley and Sonoma boast top-notch wineries and gourmet restaurants. Whether surfing in Malibu, hiking in Big Sur, wine tasting in Wine Country, or celebrity spotting in Beverly Hills — California provides the stuff that travel dreams are made of.
What are the top highlights in California?
The top highlights in California include Pacific Coast Highway, Napa Valley, Yosemite National Park, Hollywood & Beverly Hills, Golden Gate Bridge.
The places you absolutely must not miss.
Pacific Coast Highway
The legendary coastal road from San Francisco to Los Angeles is one of the most beautiful road trips in the world with breathtaking cliffs and ocean views.
Napa Valley
The most famous wine-growing region in the USA offers over 400 wineries, gourmet restaurants, and picturesque hills.
Yosemite National Park
Iconic granite cliffs, roaring waterfalls, and ancient giant sequoias make this park a natural wonder.
Hollywood & Beverly Hills
The center of the global entertainment industry with the Walk of Fame, Sunset Boulevard, and celebrity villas.
Golden Gate Bridge
The landmark of San Francisco and one of the most famous bridges in the world — particularly impressive in the fog.
Hotels in California
Compare thousands of hotels, apartments and resorts on Expedia – with price guarantee, free cancellation and reward points.
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Reise-SIM für California
Günstig surfen im Urlaub mit travSIM
Pauschalreisen & Rundreisen
Berge & Meer – 170 Tage Cookie
When is the best time to visit California?
The best time to visit California is April–October (summer dry and warm), September–October (Indian summer). Warm to hot, 25–35 °C, little rain, cool at the coast due to fog In winter: Mild, 10–18 °C, rainy season December–February, snow only in the mountains
Recommended travel time
April–October (summer dry and warm), September–October (Indian summer)
Summer
Warm to hot, 25–35 °C, little rain, cool at the coast due to fog
Winter
Mild, 10–18 °C, rainy season December–February, snow only in the mountains
How much does a holiday in California cost?
Budget travellers: $80–120/day, mid-range: $150–250/day, luxury: $350–800/day.
Average costs per person per day
Budget
$80–120
Hostel, Street food, Public transport
Mid-range
$150–250
Hotel, Restaurant, Excursions
Luxury
$350–800
Boutique hotel, Fine dining
How do I get from Germany to California?
Direct flights from Frankfurt to Los Angeles or San Francisco (approx. 11–12 hours). Rental cars are essential for road trips.
Book a package holiday to California
Compare thousands of package holidays to California and find the best deals with flight & hotel.
Compare package holidays nowWhat travel tips are there for California?
Insider knowledge that makes your holiday better.
Plan at least 3–4 days for the Pacific Coast Highway — there are too many photo stops.
San Francisco is often foggy and cool in summer — always wear layers.
Apply for ESTA approval at least 72 hours before departure.
In California, turning right on red is allowed unless a sign prohibits it.
The national park annual pass ($80) is worth it starting from the third park.
What should you eat in California?
Typical specialities in California: Fish Tacos, In-N-Out Burger, Avocado Toast, Clam Chowder in Sourdough Bowl, California Roll, Acai Bowl.
These specialties you must try!
Ready for California?
Plan your California holiday now with our free tools.
