Las Vegas travel guide: what to know before you go

Best time to visit

March to May and October to November have warm days and cool nights. June to September is extremely hot, often above 40 degrees Celsius, and pool time and indoor casinos fill the day. Winter days are mild, but nights can be cold.

Hotel prices rise sharply during big events and conventions, such as the CES technology show in January and the Formula 1 race in November. Weekends cost more than weekdays.

How many days you need

Three nights is a common plan. That fits a walk along the Strip, a show, a visit to a few resort hotels, an evening on Fremont Street and one day out of town.

A fourth day can be used for Valley of Fire or Red Rock Canyon, which are close, or Hoover Dam. A Grand Canyon trip is a long day, as the nearest main rim is several hours away by road.

Getting from the airport to the centre

Harry Reid International (LAS) is very close to the Strip, and the drive is short, depending on traffic. There is no train, and the Monorail does not serve the airport. Options are taxis, ride apps from a designated pick-up area, shared shuttles, local RTC buses and the Vegas Loop. Many people use rental cars, but they are not needed if you stay on the Strip.

Taxis wait outside baggage claim in both terminals. Ride app pick-up areas are in the parking garage, and signs show the way.

Getting around

The Strip is about six kilometres long. Walking between resorts takes longer than you expect, with bridges, escalators and long casino corridors. In summer, walking at midday is hard.

Free trams link some resort groups, such as the Mandalay Bay, Luxor and Excalibur line, and the Aria, Bellagio and Park MGM line. The Las Vegas Monorail has seven stations along the east side of the Strip. Buses run on the Strip and to Fremont Street, and RTC buses accept contactless bank cards and phones. Taxis and ride apps are common. Many resorts charge for parking.

Where to stay

The Center Strip, around Bellagio, Caesars Palace and The Venetian, is the most convenient for first-time visitors. The South Strip, near Mandalay Bay and MGM Grand, is often cheaper and close to the airport. The North Strip is quieter and near the Convention Center. Downtown and Fremont Street suit visitors who want older casinos and a lively street scene at a lower cost.

What to book in advance

Book shows and residencies early, especially for weekends. Events at the Sphere sell out, and top restaurants take reservations weeks ahead. Day tours to the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam and Valley of Fire fill in peak seasons.

Fremont Street, the Bellagio fountains and the Bellagio conservatory are free and do not need booking.

Common mistakes to avoid

Judging the price by the room rate. Many Strip hotels add a daily resort fee, so compare total prices.

Planning to walk the whole Strip in one afternoon in summer.

Booking a Grand Canyon visit as a short side trip. It takes most of the day.

Bringing glass bottles or open drinks into places where they are not allowed. Rules vary between the Strip, Fremont Street and cars.

Forgetting the age limit. You must be 21 to gamble or buy alcohol.

Money, tipping and practical notes

The United States uses the dollar. Cards are accepted widely, and you will need some cash for tips. Tipping is customary: restaurant servers, bartenders, taxi drivers, valet staff and housekeeping all expect tips. Around 18 to 20 percent is standard in restaurants.

The plug type is A and B, at 120 volts. Smoking is allowed on many casino floors. Drink plenty of water in the dry climate. Many visitors need an electronic authorisation or a visa before travelling, so check the official US government site.

Facts on this page were last checked in November 2026. Routes, rules and opening days change, so confirm important details with the official source before you travel.

Things to do in Las Vegas