15 days in Seattle & Los Angeles Itinerary

Nicknamed the "Emerald City" because of its abundant evergreen trees, Seattle is the cultural and business center of the Pacific Northwest, as well as a popular holiday destination.

Satisfy your inner culture vulture at Chihuly Garden and Glass and Pike Place Market. Step out of the city life by going to Hurricane Ridge and Bloedel Reserve. Explore the numerous day-trip ideas around Seattle: West Hybloes Wetlands Park (in Federal Way), Tumwater Falls Park (in Tumwater) and Battle Point Park (in Bainbridge Island). There's much more to do: make a trip to Space Needle, pause for some photo ops at Fremont Troll, have fun at Volunteer Park, and examine the collection at The Museum of Flight.

To see traveler tips, reviews, and more tourist information, refer to the Seattle online trip itinerary planner.

Sydney, Australia to Seattle is an approximately 21-hour flight. Traveling from Sydney to Seattle, you'll gain 18 hours due to the time zone difference. In September, daily temperatures in Seattle can reach 26°C, while at night they dip to 15°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 28th (Mon) early enough to travel to Los Angeles.

Surrounded by mountain ranges, forests, valleys, beaches, and deserts, the metropolitan area of Los Angeles is home to over 17 million people.

Take a break from the city and head to Santa Monica Mountains and Santa Monica State Beach. Santa Monica Pier and Greystone Mansion and Park will appeal to history buffs. Change things up with these side-trips from Los Angeles: Mulholland Drive (in Beverly Hills), Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano (in San Juan Capistrano) and Westward Beach (in Malibu). Pack the 3rd (Sat) with family-friendly diversions at Universal Studios Hollywood. There's lots more to do: don't miss a visit to Hollywood Walk of Fame, contemplate the long history of Avila Adobe, grab your bike and head to South Bay Bicycle Trail, and examine the collection at The Getty Center.

To see other places to visit, where to stay, and more tourist information, read Los Angeles online road trip planner.

You can fly from Seattle to Los Angeles in 5.5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive; or take a bus. Expect a bit warmer temperatures when traveling from Seattle in September; daily highs in Los Angeles reach 34°C and lows reach 22°C. On the 5th (Mon), you'll have the morning to explore before heading back home.