Las Vegas Travel Guide: The Strip, Shows, and Accommodation

Las Vegas is a destination unlike any other: a city in the middle of the Mojave Desert, where replicas of Paris, Venice, and ancient Egypt stand side by side, the shows are world-class, and the night never ends.

Beyond the casinos, Vegas is a base for some of the most beautiful landscapes in the USA: Grand Canyon, Red Rock Canyon, Valley of Fire, and Hoover Dam are all within a day trip's reach.

In this guide, you'll find what to see on the Strip and Downtown, how resort fees work, how much a day costs, which shows are worth it, and recommended hotels with a direct link to Booking.com.

A Few Words About Las Vegas: Geography, History, and Identity

Las Vegas is located in southern Nevada, in the Mojave Desert, and has approximately 2.3 million inhabitants in the wider area. It was founded in 1905 as a railway stop and transformed after gambling was legalised in 1931. The big boom came in the 1950s and 1960s with the legendary casinos and the Las Vegas scene.

The city has two centres. The Strip, a section of Las Vegas Boulevard approximately 6.8 km long, concentrates the mega resorts with their themed buildings, the Bellagio fountains, shows, and large shopping centres. Downtown, around Fremont Street, is old Vegas: cheaper, more retro, with neon lights, live music, and the Fremont Street Experience.

The climate is desert. Summers are extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C, while winters are mild during the day, around 14–17°C, with cold evenings. Spring and autumn are the ideal seasons. Humidity is very low all year round, so hydration is important, especially if you combine the city with hikes in the nearby canyons.

Top Attractions in Las Vegas

The sights and experiences that make Vegas what it is:

1. Bellagio Fountains
   A free spectacle with music every 15–30 minutes. The best spot is the bridge towards Caesars.
2. The Strip by Foot at Night
   From Luxor to Wynn, with stops at the themed lobbies. Allow two hours just for walking.
3. Fremont Street Experience
   A covered street with a luminous LED canopy, live bands, and a zipline over the crowd.
4. STRAT Tower or High Roller Observation Deck
   Views of the entire city and the desert, ideal at sunset.
5. Cirque du Soleil Shows
   Multiple productions on the Strip, from 'O' at Bellagio to 'Michael Jackson ONE'.
6. Neon Museum
   A graveyard of old neon signs, impressive on the evening tour.
7. Grand Canyon West or South Rim
   A day trip by coach, car, or helicopter. The South Rim has the most famous views.
8. Red Rock Canyon
   Just 30 minutes from the Strip, with a 21 km scenic drive and hikes.
9. Hoover Dam and Lake Mead
   A 1930s engineering marvel, 45 minutes from the city.
10. Valley of Fire State Park
    Red rocks, petroglyphs, and otherworldly landscapes, an hour north.

Where to Stay in Las Vegas: The Best Areas

The hotel's location determines how much you'll walk and how much you'll pay:

Center Strip

Bellagio, Caesars, Cosmopolitan. The best base for a first visit, with most shows nearby.

South Strip

Luxor, Mandalay Bay, Excalibur. More affordable, with large pools and close to the airport.

North Strip

Wynn, Resorts World, STRAT. Quieter, with newer resorts and good prices.

Downtown / Fremont

Retro Vegas, much cheaper rooms, lower table minimums.

Off-Strip

Hotels a few minutes away, without casinos, with significantly lower costs.

Henderson and Lake Las Vegas

Suburbs for a quiet stay with a car, golf, and lake resorts.

14 Recommended Accommodations in Las Vegas

Below you'll find selected accommodations for every budget, with a direct link to their page on Booking.com. The links are affiliate links: if you book, you support Travelo at no additional cost to you.

• The Carriage House — Las Vegas Strip
• Durango Casino & Resort — Las Vegas
• Home2 Suites By Hilton Las Vegas Northwest — Las Vegas
• Best Western Plus Henderson Hotel — Henderson
• Hampton Inn Las Vegas Strip South, NV 89123 — Las Vegas
• The Platinum Hotel — Las Vegas Strip
• The Signature at MGM Grand - All Suites — Las Vegas Strip
• Plaza Hotel & Casino — Downtown Las Vegas - Fremont Street
• Mardi Gras Hotel & Casino — East of the Las Vegas Strip
• Alexis Park All Suite Resort — East of the Las Vegas Strip
• Palace Station Hotel & Casino — West of the Las Vegas Strip
• Las Vegas Serene Hotel — East of the Las Vegas Strip
• Oasis at Gold Spike — Downtown Las Vegas - Fremont Street
• SpringHill Suites by Marriott Las Vegas North Speedway —

Accommodation Comparison Table

Accommodation	Area	Style / Amenities	Indicative Price
The Carriage House	Las Vegas Strip	Hotel	€€–€€€
Durango Casino & Resort	Las Vegas	Hotel	€€–€€€
Home2 Suites By Hilton Las Vegas Northwest	Las Vegas	Hotel	€€–€€€
Best Western Plus Henderson Hotel	Henderson	Hotel	€€–€€€
Hampton Inn Las Vegas Strip South, NV 89123	Las Vegas	Hotel	€€–€€€
The Platinum Hotel	Las Vegas Strip	Hotel	€€–€€€
The Signature at MGM Grand - All Suites	Las Vegas Strip	Hotel	€€–€€€
Plaza Hotel & Casino	Downtown Las Vegas - Fremont Street	Hotel	€€–€€€
Mardi Gras Hotel & Casino	East of the Las Vegas Strip	Hotel	€€–€€€
Alexis Park All Suite Resort	East of the Las Vegas Strip	Hotel	€€–€€€
Palace Station Hotel & Casino	West of the Las Vegas Strip	Hotel	€€–€€€
Las Vegas Serene Hotel	East of the Las Vegas Strip	Hotel	€€–€€€
Oasis at Gold Spike	Downtown Las Vegas - Fremont Street	Hotel	€€–€€€
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Las Vegas North Speedway		Hotel	€€–€€€

Prices are indicative for a double room and change depending on the season, city events, and how early you book. Always check the final price and cancellation policy on the accommodation's page.

Food and Flavours in Las Vegas

Vegas is now a serious culinary destination. In the resorts, you'll find restaurants by famous chefs, from steakhouses to sushi and modern Mexican cuisine. Buffets remain an experience, with Wicked Spoon and Bacchanal standing out, but now cost $60–100 per person.

For affordable options, venture off the Strip: Chinatown on Spring Mountain Road has excellent Asian restaurants at reasonable prices, while Downtown offers good food halls. Note that in the USA, tax is not included in the price, and an 18–20% tip is standard. A meal in a casual restaurant costs $20–35, a steakhouse $80–150.

When to Visit Las Vegas

The best months are March to May and October to November, with temperatures of 20–30°C, ideal for both the Strip and canyon hikes. In July and August, the heat often exceeds 40°C, and outdoor activities are limited to the morning.

Winter is the cheapest period, with mild days and cold evenings, but many resort pools close. Avoid dates with large conventions or sports events, as room prices can triple. Mid-week Vegas is much cheaper than the weekend.

Period	Weather	What to Expect
March–May	Warm, dry	Ideal for the Strip and excursions, medium prices.
June–August	Heatwave over 40°C	Life by the pools and in air-conditioned spaces, cheaper rooms.
September–November	Warm, comfortable	The best period for a combination of city and nature.
December–February	Mild, cold evenings	Low prices, fewer crowds, closed pools.

Transport and Practical Information

Harry Reid Airport is just 5 km from the South Strip, with taxis or Uber taking 10–20 minutes and costing $20–35. There are no direct flights from Athens, so you'll have one stop at a European or American hub, with a total travel time of 16–20 hours.

The Strip looks small on the map, but the distances are enormous: from Luxor to Wynn is over an hour's walk. Use the monorail, the free trams between neighbouring resorts, the Deuce buses, or Uber. Beware of resort fees: an additional $30–55 per night, paid at the hotel and not always visible in the initial price. For the USA, you need ESTA approval before travelling.

Indicative Travel Cost

Expense	Budget Option	Mid-range Option
Accommodation/night	$60–$120 mid-week	$200–$450 weekend
Meal	$20–$35	$60–$150
Transport/day	$8–$15	$25–$50
Shows and activities	$60–$120	$150–$400 with helicopter

Suggested 4-Day Itinerary

1. Day 1
   Center Strip: Bellagio, fountains, Caesars, Cosmopolitan, evening show.
2. Day 2
   South Strip: Luxor, Mandalay Bay, pool in the afternoon, High Roller at sunset.
3. Day 3
   Excursion to Grand Canyon West or Red Rock Canyon and Hoover Dam.
4. Day 4
   Downtown: Fremont Street, Neon Museum, Chinatown for food.

Useful Tips Before You Travel

• Always check the resort fee before booking, it completely changes price comparisons.
• Book accommodation Monday to Thursday, prices are up to three times lower than on weekends.
• Get your ESTA at least two weeks before departure.
• Drink plenty of water, the dry desert dehydrates you without you realising it.
• If you plan canyon trips, rent a car for one day, it's cheaper than an organised coach for two people.

Points of Interest: Detailed Guide

The Strip

Las Vegas Boulevard, six kilometres long, featuring the planet's largest hotels. A walk from Bellagio to Venetian takes one hour of pure walking, but with stops, it can fill an entire evening. Use the pedestrian bridges and bear in mind that distances appear shorter than they are.

Bellagio Fountains

A show with water, music, and lights every thirty minutes in the afternoon and every fifteen minutes after 8:00 PM, completely free. Watch it once from the pavement and once from above, from the Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck at Paris.

Themed Hotels

The Venetian with canals and gondolas, Caesars Palace with Roman aesthetics, the Luxor pyramid, New York-New York with a roller coaster, and Paris with its tower. Exploring the lobbies is free and part of the experience.

Fremont Street and Downtown

Old Vegas, with the covered Fremont Street Experience, projections on a 460-metre screen, a zipline, and historic casinos with lower table minimums. The Container Park and Arts District have a more local vibe.

Observation Decks and Views

The High Roller, the tallest observation wheel at 168 metres, the STRAT Tower with extreme rides at the top, and the Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck. Sunset is the best time and tickets are cheaper online.

Neon Museum

A graveyard of historic neon signs in an outdoor space, with evening tours where some are lit up. It's the most significant visit for the city's history, with tickets costing about $20-30.

Sphere

The spherical arena with its enormous external LED screen and internal 16K projection has changed the city's skyline. Even without a ticket to a show, the exterior is worth seeing at night.

Casinos and Gambling

Minimum age is 21. Minimum bets on the Strip start from $15-25 at tables, in Downtown from $5-10. Free blackjack and craps lessons are offered in the mornings at many casinos.

Shows

Cirque du Soleil in many variations, residency concerts by major artists, magic shows, and comedy. Tickets range from $60-250, with same-day offers at Tix4Tonight booths.

Hoover Dam

Forty-five minutes east, the 1936 dam with tours of the turbines and the bridge offering panoramic views. Can be combined with Lake Mead for boating or swimming.

Museums, Art, and Culture

The Mob Museum

In the old federal courthouse in Downtown, exploring the history of organised crime and its relationship with the city. Interactive, exceptionally well-made, tickets around $30.

Atomic Museum

Focuses on nuclear tests in the Nevada desert, when explosions were a tourist attraction from hotel rooftops. Both interesting and chilling.

Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art

A small but high-quality gallery with rotating exhibitions by major artists, next to the famous botanical conservatory with seasonal installations, which is free.

Nevada State Museum and Springs Preserve

In the same complex, featuring natural history, desert geology, and botanical gardens with native plants. The best choice to understand what the Mojave Desert means.

Parks, Nature, and Outdoor Spaces

Red Rock Canyon

Twenty minutes west, with a 21 km scenic loop, red sandstone rocks, trails for all levels, and climbing. Entry reservations for cars are required during certain periods.

Valley of Fire

One hour northeast, Nevada's oldest state park, with fiery rock formations, petroglyphs, and the stunning Fire Wave and Seven Wonders. In summer, it's dangerously hot after 10:00 AM.

Mount Charleston

Forty-five minutes northwest, at 2,500 metres, with pine trees, hiking, and fifteen degrees cooler than the city. In winter, it has snow and a small ski resort.

Lake Mead and Lake Las Vegas

The largest artificial lake in the USA, with boats, kayaks, and hot springs at Arizona Hot Springs. Water levels have dropped dramatically, a fact that in itself tells the story of water scarcity in the West.

Activities and Experiences

Day Trip to the Grand Canyon

The South Rim is a four-hour drive away, and the West Rim with the Skywalk two and a half hours. Helicopters and small planes cost $300-500 and offer the most spectacular views. By car, starting at 6:00 AM, the South Rim can be done in one long day.

Zion and Death Valley

Zion in Utah is two and a half hours away and offers some of the USA's most beautiful hikes, while Death Valley is two hours away and is impressive in winter, but prohibitive in summer with 50-degree temperatures.

Extreme Experiences

Indoor skydiving in a wind tunnel, skydiving over the desert, driving a supercar on a track, shooting ranges, and the SlotZilla zipline on Fremont. Prices range from $100-400.

Pools and Pool Parties

From March to October, hotels operate pool clubs with DJs and entry fees of $20-60. Hotel pools are usually only accessible to guests.

Spa and Relaxation Day

Large spas offer day passes for $40-75 with saunas, baths, and pools. This is the best solution for a mid-intensive travel day.

Wedding Ceremony and Chapels

Weddings in Vegas are an institution, with licences issued the same day and ceremonies from $100. Many couples from Greece choose a symbolic ceremony, so check legal recognition beforehand.

Where to Eat: Specific Suggestions

Buffet and Brunch

Large buffets like Bacchanal and Wynn cost $60-90 and offer a huge variety. It's an experience, not just food; go hungry and skip dinner afterward.

Steakhouse and Fine Dining

The city has almost every famous chef with a restaurant here. A steak dinner typically costs $90-160 per person, while tasting menus exceed $200. Reservations are essential on weekends.

Budget-Friendly Options

Food courts in shopping centres, In-N-Out burger, Mexican taquerias off the Strip, and the famous cheap breakfasts in Downtown. For $15-20 you can eat heartily without entering a hotel restaurant.

Chinatown

On Spring Mountain Road, ten minutes from the Strip, lies one of the best Asian culinary zones in the USA: ramen, dim sum, Korean barbecue, and Taiwanese, at half the prices of the Strip.

Cocktails and Drinks

Drinks in casinos are often offered to players, but tipping the waitress one or two dollars is customary. In cocktail bars, expect to pay $18-25 per drink.

Tips and Taxes

Note that tax is not included in prices and that an 18-20% tip is socially obligatory in restaurants. Many hotels also charge an additional resort fee of $35-55 per night.

Nightlife and Drinks

Large Clubs

XS, Omnia, Hakkasan, and Zouk bring top DJs with entry fees of $30-100 and expensive table service. Guest lists reduce costs for women, and early hours are cheaper.

Character Bars

Speakeasies in Downtown, cocktail bars in the Arts District, dive bars with cheap beer, and bars with guitar and live music. This is where the city's residents hang out.

Practicalities

The city operates 24 hours a day and alcohol is served continuously. However, drinking from glass containers on the street is prohibited, and special rules apply on Fremont Street. Use Uber or Lyft; taxis cost more.

Shopping

Shopping Centres and Luxury

Forum Shops at Caesars, Grand Canal Shoppes at Venetian, Crystals at CityCenter, and Fashion Show Mall. Open late and air-conditioned, useful during summer afternoons.

Outlets

Las Vegas North and South Premium Outlets offer 30-70% discounts on American brands. The northern one is closer to Downtown and has a better selection.

What's Worth It

Sportswear, jeans, electronics, and cosmetics are significantly cheaper than in Europe. Remember that an 8.4% tax is added to the price and that you must declare purchases above the customs limit upon return.

With Children: What Works Best

With Children in Vegas

Despite its reputation, the city has options: Adventuredome at Circus Circus, Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay, roller coaster at New York-New York, Discovery Children's Museum, and free attractions like the fountains and flamingos at the Flamingo.

Practicalities with Children

Children are not allowed in gambling areas and many shows, and in the evenings on the Strip, there are advertisers of adult content. Summer heat requires pools and indoor activities, while national parks are better in spring.

Day Trips

Grand Canyon West and Skywalk

Two and a half hours away, with the glass platform over the canyon and visits to Hualapai settlements. A shorter option than the South Rim.

Zion National Park

Two and a half hours northeast, featuring The Narrows and Angels Landing, which requires a lottery permit. Ideal in spring and autumn.

Valley of Fire with Hoover Dam

Can be combined in one day by car: the dam in the morning, Lake Mead, and then the red rocks in the afternoon with the best light.

Death Valley

Two hours west, with Badwater Basin at 86 metres below sea level, Zabriskie Point, and sand dunes. Only from November to March, with plenty of water.

When to Go: Month by Month

Winter

Days are 14-18 degrees, nights near zero, and minimal rain. Hotel prices are the lowest, excluding New Year's, and it's the ideal time for national parks.

Spring

March to May, 22-32 degrees, the best balance for city and desert combined. Pools open, and prices progressively increase.

Summer

June to August, 38-45 degrees with dry heat. Hotels are cheaper mid-week, but outdoor activities are limited to early mornings. Drink water constantly and do not underestimate the desert.

Autumn

September to November, with a gradual drop from 35 to 20 degrees. October is one of the best months, with many conventions that, however, drive up accommodation prices.

Suggested Itineraries by Duration

Three Days

First day: The Strip with fountains, themed hotels, and a show. Second day: Downtown, Mob Museum, Neon Museum, and Fremont at night. Third day: Red Rock Canyon or Hoover Dam and an evening on a rooftop.

Five Days

Add a full day at the Grand Canyon, a relaxed day with a pool and spa, and an evening in the Arts District or Chinatown for off-Strip dining.

Vegas as a Base for a Road Trip

Rent a car and combine Zion, Bryce Canyon, Monument Valley, and the Grand Canyon in seven to ten days. It's one of the classic American road trips, and Vegas is an ideal starting point due to cheap car rentals.

Practical Travel Information

ESTA and Entry

Greek citizens travel with an electronic ESTA authorisation, which you apply for online at least 72 hours beforehand and is valid for two years. A biometric passport is required. Fingerprints and accommodation address will be requested at immigration control.

Arrival and Transport

Harry Reid Airport is five kilometres from the Strip, with Uber or Lyft costing $15-25 and shuttles $12. On the Strip, you can get around on foot, by monorail, with 24-hour Deuce buses, or with ride-sharing apps. A rental car only makes sense for excursions, as parking at hotels is charged.

Resort Fees and Hidden Costs

Almost all hotels charge a resort fee of $35-55 per night that is not always reflected in the initial price, as well as a parking fee. Factor these in from the start when comparing offers.

Heat and Health

The dry heat dehydrates you without intense sweating. Drink two to three litres of water a day, use sunscreen and moisturiser. Medical care in the USA is extremely expensive, so travel insurance is essential.

Tipping

Tipping is part of wages: 18-20% in restaurants, $1-2 per drink, $2-5 for the concierge, $3-5 per day for room cleaning. Budget for these costs.

Legalities and Age Limits

The age limit for gambling and alcohol is 21, and ID checks are systematic, so keep your passport with you. Cannabis is legal in Nevada but its use is prohibited in public spaces and casinos.

Budget and Savings

Typical Prices

Hotel on the Strip mid-week $60-150, weekend $180-400, plus resort fee. Breakfast $15-25, dinner $40-90, show $80-200, Grand Canyon excursion $120-500. A five-day trip for two people typically ranges from $1,400-2,500 excluding flights.

How to Save

Travel Monday to Thursday, when prices drop by half. See the free attractions, eat in Chinatown and food courts, buy same-day show tickets, gamble Downtown with lower minimums, and sign up for free casino loyalty programmes for discounts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days do you need for Las Vegas?

Three to four days for the city and an additional day for an excursion to the Grand Canyon.

What are resort fees?

A daily charge of $30–55 imposed by hotels for Wi-Fi, pool, and gym access, paid on-site.

Do I need a visa for the USA?

Greek citizens travel with an ESTA approval, which you apply for online before your flight.

Is a Grand Canyon excursion worth it?

Yes. The West Rim is closer, about 2.5 hours, while the South Rim takes 4.5 hours but offers the most spectacular views.

Which area is best for a first-time visit?

The Center Strip, as you're close to the fountains, shows, and major resorts.

Is Vegas cheap?

It can be, if you travel mid-week, eat off the Strip, and avoid weekends with major events.

How many days do you need for Las Vegas?

Three to four nights is ideal: two for the city and one or two for excursions to Grand Canyon, Red Rock or Valley of Fire. Over five days, most people get tired of the pace.

Is it worth it if I don't gamble?

Absolutely. Shows, gastronomy, architecture, pools, spas, and access to four national parks make for a complete trip without spending a dollar at the tables.

What's the best time to visit?

March to May and October to November. Summer has extreme heat and winter offers the lowest prices with cool nights.

Where should I stay, Strip or Downtown?

The central Strip around Bellagio and Caesars is convenient for everything; the northern and southern ends are cheaper with more walking; Downtown has the best prices, a more local character, and lower casino minimums.

What is a resort fee?

A daily mandatory charge of $35-55 that covers Wi-Fi, gym, and pool, paid at check-in, regardless of the price you saw at booking.

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We conclude with a tip: the best way to enjoy a destination is to combine planning with space for unexpected discoveries. Keep your main visits, but also leave time for strolls, chats with locals, and flavours you haven't planned. Have a great trip!

If you're planning your trip and want more ideas for accommodation, dining, and experiences, take a look at Travelo.gr's links for destinations, hotels, and flights. Every article we write is designed to help you create a trip you'll remember.