How to spend the ultimate weekend in Las Vegas

Welcome to Las Vegas, a city known as Sin City. As you approach by plane, the vibrant lights of this desert oasis become visible, especially if you were wise enough to secure a window seat. Las Vegas is a place that seamlessly blends vintage camp with futuristic innovation. Here, you’ll find the iconic Strip, where the drive-in wedding chapel and a plethora of attractions await, including a striking replica of the Eiffel Tower, Egyptian pyramids, and enchanting Venetian canals.

In this captivating city, you’ll encounter a mix of classic steakhouses and 24-hour casinos alongside world-class dining, sophisticated hotels, and exhilarating entertainment. From the mesmerising performances of Cirque du Soleil, showcasing breathtaking acrobatics, to the towering High Roller observation wheel, there’s never a shortage of excitement. When the sun sets, Las Vegas truly comes alive, renowned for its legendary nightlife. Whether you’re grooving to the pulsating beats spun by DJs on a dance floor adorned with gold or savouring a drink on an open-air terrace, overlooking the dazzling neon-lit resorts and casinos below, you’ll experience the essence of Vegas, baby.

To delve further into the wonders of Las Vegas, check out our comprehensive guides featuring the city’s finest hotels, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and an array of both paid and free activities.

Day One
Morning

If you’ve just arrived in Sin City, kick off your Las Vegas adventure with a memorable photo opportunity beside the iconic “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas, Nevada” sign. As you make your way from the airport in a taxi, keep an eye out for this retro landmark situated at the southern end of the Strip, just south of Mandalay Bay. The sign attracts a bustling crowd of cars and a constant flurry of camera flashes, making it easy to spot where to pull over.

As you continue your journey north along the Strip, take in the sights of remarkable architectural replicas from the comfort of your car window. On your left, you’ll catch a glimpse of the Empire State Building and the magnificent Luxor pyramid, while on your right, a faux Eiffel Tower adds to the enchantment. Bid farewell to your taxi driver upon reaching the Bellagio, and make a beeline for the awe-inspiring floral displays at the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Garden. This remarkable exhibition changes its theme four times a year, corresponding to the seasons of spring, summer, fall, and winter, featuring captivating motifs like “Under the Sea” and “Japanese Spring.”

Afternoon

f you’re craving an exquisite lunch experience, make your way to the Venetian and indulge in a Parisian-style meal at Bouchon. This renowned eatery offers delectable specialties like steamed mussels, freshly baked baguettes, and tantalising oysters. Afterward, immerse yourself in the Venetian’s charm by embarking on a gondola ride along its enchanting man-made canals. Whether you opt for an indoor or outdoor voyage, your gondolier will play their part, serenading you as you glide beneath picturesque bridges and past charming canalside cafés.

If your preference leans towards shopping, seize the opportunity to explore The Shops at Crystals, a futuristic shopping mall located at CityCenter. Here, you can grab a quick lunch at one of the casual eateries while marveling at the mall’s iconic water installations and lush indoor foliage, which have become synonymous with its eco-friendly ambiance. Alternatively, venture to the hip and trendy Cosmopolitan, where you’ll discover a variety of gourmet taco joints, excellent coffee establishments, and trendy boutiques catering to stylish millennials. For an extensive list of top-notch dining establishments in Las Vegas, consult our comprehensive guide.

Now, it’s time to raise your glass and enjoy your first drink in Vegas. Opt for a classy experience at the Chandelier Bar, situated at the heart of the Cosmopolitan. This unique bar “hangs” within a magnificent chandelier, offering the perfect setting to make a toast and savour the ambiance of this remarkable venue.

Evening

Its time for an unforgettable dinner experience at Sage, the contemporary farm-to-table restaurant located at Aria. Immerse yourself in a culinary journey that celebrates the freshest ingredients and innovative flavours. Afterward, prepare to be mesmerised by the world-renowned Cirque du Soleil shows, performed at specialised theaters throughout the Strip. Choose a classic production like Mystère at Treasure Island for a timeless experience, or treat yourself to the extraordinary aquatic spectacle of the legendary O at the Bellagio.

Conclude your night with a visit to one of Las Vegas’ iconic superclubs, each offering a unique atmosphere. Step into the opulent XS at Encore, adorned with real gold accents and exuding a sophisticated ambiance. Alternatively, head to the stylish rooftop club, Marquee, nestled within the vibrant Cosmopolitan. Dance the night away as you revel in the pulsating beats and captivating energy of the city’s nightlife scene.

Day Two
Morning

Get ready to immerse yourself in the vintage charm of downtown Las Vegas. Begin your day with a leisurely stroll down the vibrant and neon-lit Fremont Street Experience. This pedestrian-only promenade is a non-stop spectacle, offering thrilling attractions such as a zip line, live entertainment, and vendors serving supersized cocktails. If you’ve ever wanted to learn the basics of blackjack, take advantage of the opportunity to receive a free lesson at one of the classic casinos in the neighbourhood. For more free activities to explore in Las Vegas, refer to our comprehensive guide.

Alternatively, dedicate a couple of hours to the mafia-themed Mob Museum. Housed in a meticulously restored former courthouse dating back to 1933, this fascinating museum provides an in-depth look into the city’s history of organised crime and the significant role the mafia played in shaping the development of casino-resorts as we know them today.

Afternoon

For lunch, treat yourself to a culinary delight at Pizza Rock, co-founded by the esteemed Tony Gemignani, a 12-time World Pizza Champion. Indulge in the Burratina di Margherita, a Sicilian-style pizza featuring creamy Burrata cheese, cherry tomatoes, basil, and balsamic reduction. Or, for a more avant-garde experience, try the Cal Italia, showcasing asiago, prosciutto, mozzarella, gorgonzola, fig preserve, and balsamic reduction.

Afterward, satisfy your shopping desires by exploring Retro Vegas, a treasure trove of mid-century Vegas decor and accessories. Then, make your way to the Golden Nugget hotel and casino, where you can marvel at the awe-inspiring shark tank—a colossal three-story, 200,000-gallon aquarium teeming with shimmering sharks. While the unique tube waterslide cutting through the tank is exclusive to hotel guests, purchasing a day pass is also an option.

As the sun begins to set, take a leisurely walk through the outdoor sections of the Neon Museum near Fremont Street. Here, you’ll encounter a mesmerising neon glow, with retro signs that include vintage motel relics and a larger-than-life sparkling martini glass, adding a touch of nostalgic ambiance to your evening.

Evening

Stop into Carson Kitchen, an industrial-chic gastropub that’s popular with locals, for dinner and drinks. Many plates are meant for sharing. Try the crispy chicken skins or barbecue burnt ends to start, then have a short rib grilled cheese on sourdough. Afterwards, stop for 1930s-inspired cocktails at Commonwealth, a Prohibition-style bar with a speakeasy section that’s only available via text message reservation – check the website for details.

Finish with a nightcap alongside locals at Lucky Day, a tequila bar with seating beneath a striking canopy of 15,000 LED lights. Sip rare mezcal and take in the bar’s collection of quirky Vegas memorabilia while DJ-spun Latin house music enlivens the colourful space.

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Insider Recommendations

Neighbourhood Exploration

Discover the revitalized downtown Las Vegas, a hotspot for farm-to-table cuisine, vintage shopping, and locally crafted cocktails. Begin your adventure at Fremont Street and venture out from there. Don’t miss the Downtown Cocktail Room, Oak & Ivy, and Therapy for memorable experiences.

Must-See Attractions

When riding the High Roller, secure a corner spot by the window on your right as you enter the car for the most breathtaking views of the dazzling Sin City.

City Hack

Take advantage of the Deuce, an affordable and convenient bus service that operates 24/7 along the Strip and into downtown. Grab a two-hour pass for just $6 (£5) and enjoy hassle-free transportation.

Interesting Fact

While gambling in a Las Vegas casino, it’s true that drinks are complimentary. Remember to show appreciation by tipping the server accordingly.

Book Now

Adele’s highly-anticipated residency, ‘Weekends with Adele,’ has been extended at The Colosseum in Caesars Palace. Catch her captivating performances on Friday and Saturday nights from June through November 2023, with June shows recorded for an upcoming concert film.

Adding to the allure of Las Vegas, the Wynn Las Vegas presents ‘Awakening,’ a futuristic and enchanting show competing with Cirque du Soleil productions. Set in a custom 360-degree theater and featuring narration by Oscar winner Anthony Hopkins, it promises to be a sensory spectacle like no other.

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