Las Vegas city breaks

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Nicknamed ‘Sin City’, Las Vegas is the ultimate fantasy escape. This high-drama, the neon-lit resort is the only place in the world that you can tie the knot on the top of the Eiffel Tower, party 24 hours a day, enjoy a three-course meal by an erupting volcano or shop in an arcade more magnificent than its designer merchandise.

Things to do

There’s nowhere on the planet as bold, glitzy and outrageous as Las Vegas. With its luxurious hotels, famous casinos and glamorous shows, the Strip is full of life, while the desert beyond is dramatic and beautiful. Here are the sights you really shouldn’t miss on your trip to Las Vegas.

Fabulous Las Vegas

When you think of Las Vegas city breaks, it’s hard not to think of neon lights, jumping fountains and grand hotels. The Strip is a constantly evolving, seething mass of vibrant fun, where you can get to know the soul of the city. As the sign says, "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas". Take your pick from spectacular Cirque du Soleil shows, iconic landmarks like Caesars Palace and the MGM Grand, and breathtaking performances from legends such as Elton John.

Casino fun

Las Vegas is famous for its epic fight nights, and if you’re lucky enough to be in town when there’s a boxing extravaganza you’re in for a treat. There’s no need for a special occasion to play the tables or slots in the iconic casinos, but keep in mind that you should only play with what you can afford to lose. There’s a reason why the hotels and casinos are all so luxurious, and why you get free drinks while you sit at a gaming table!

Natural attractions

The Mojave Desert surrounds Las Vegas, and it’s a great place to explore and escape the city for a while. The Grand Canyon meanwhile is around a two hour drive away, so go on a tour or hire a car and visit one of the world’s most stunning natural attractions. If you’re feeling flush from a win at the casino, take an unforgettable helicopter ride to the canyon.

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Map of Las Vegas

41 ℃

Best time to visit: During the spring, when temperatures sit between the mid-20s and low 30s (°C).

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10-11 hours

The main airport near Las Vegas is McCarran International Airport (LAS), which is 8km south of downtown Las Vegas.

Las Vegas is best for

Clubbers: Dance ‘til dawn at some of the world’s top night clubs, then start all over again at a rooftop pool party. The Strip is the place to be.

Romantics: For the best view of this neon-lit city, how about a helicopter trip? Or visit the grand Venetian to enjoy a gondola ride for two.

Explorers: Take the West Rim Bus Tour out to the Grand Canyon and experience this natural wonder for yourself. It has to be seen to be believed.

Fast facts for Las Vegas

Language: The language spoken in Las Vegas is English.

Currency: The currency used in Las Vegas is the American dollar ($).

Local time: Las Vegas is eight hours behind GMT/UK time.

Fly to: The main airport near Las Vegas is McCarran International Airport (LAS), which is 8km south of downtown Las Vegas.

Flight time from UK: 10-11 hours.

Tourist information: Further Las Vegas tourist information can be found at www.lasvegas.com

Minimum booking age: For many hotels in the USA, you'll need to be 21 years old or over to be able to check in.

Getting around Las Vegas

On foot: Walking is a great way to soak up the sights and sounds of the Strip. It can be hot and tiring, so remember to carry a bottle of water at all times.

By monorail: The monorail is an enjoyable way to explore some of the Strip’s main attractions. Running every day and into the early hours, it makes seven stops between Sahara Avenue and the MGM Grand.

By shuttle bus: You’ll find that a number of hotels run shuttle buses to various Vegas attractions. For a real taste of extravagance, hire a limo for the evening.

Events in Las Vegas

Electronic music: In May, the Electric Daisy Carnival comes to the Las Vegas Speedway. The biggest electronic music festival in the world, it attracts superstar DJs like Tiesto, Armin van Buuren and David Guetta.

Fourth of July: American independence is always celebrated with a huge party in Las Vegas. Hotels compete for the biggest and best fireworks display, so find a good spot and watch the sky come alive in a flurry of red, white and blue.

New Year: For the ultimate party, don’t miss New Year’s Eve. Thousands of revellers from across the world descend on the Strip and fill up the city’s clubs, bars and casinos.

Las Vegas safety and security

Visa / health: Before your city break to Las Vegas, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/usa for recommendations and advice on visas and health.

Las Vegas weather

Temperature: Summers can be extreme, with average temperatures of 41(°C) in July.

Best time to visit: During the spring, when temperatures sit between the mid-20s and low 30s (°C).

The weather in Las Vegas is hot, dry and sunny for most of the year. Winters are usually pleasantly warm. Travel in November if you want to see Las Vegas at its quietest.

Weather in Las Vegas for

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