Why go to New York City
New York is a city of neighbourhoods, each with its own rhythm. World-class museums and Broadway sit alongside bodegas, Brooklyn rooftops and some of the most diverse food on the planet.
Best time to visit New York City
April to June and September to November are the best months, with mild weather and a busy cultural calendar. Summer is hot and humid. December is festive but cold and crowded; January and February are cheapest.
Top things to see
Central Park
Walk from the Mall to Bethesda Terrace and Bow Bridge.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Five thousand years of art; plan a route.
Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
Book crown or pedestal tickets ahead.
Brooklyn Bridge
Walk from Manhattan to DUMBO.
The High Line
An elevated park on old rail tracks.
MoMA
Van Gogh, Warhol and modern design.
Things to do in New York City
- Catch a Broadway show; TKTS has same-day deals
- Ride the free Staten Island Ferry for skyline views
- Watch a Yankees or Mets game
- Explore Brooklyn's Williamsburg and Prospect Park
- See the city from an observation deck at dusk
Local experiences
- Order a bagel with schmear from a neighbourhood shop
- Eat a dollar-ish slice folded in half
- Hear live jazz at the Village Vanguard
- Take the subway to Queens for global food in Flushing and Jackson Heights
Where to eat in New York City
Dishes to try: New York pizza, bagels and lox, pastrami on rye, cheesecake, halal cart chicken over rice.
Katz's DelicatessenDeli
Pastrami on rye since 1888.
Joe's PizzaPizza
The classic Greenwich Village slice.
Russ & DaughtersAppetising
Lox and bagels on the Lower East Side since 1914.
Peter LugerSteakhouse
Brooklyn steakhouse dating to 1887.
Le BernardinFine dining
Celebrated seafood tasting menus.
Where to stay in New York City
The PlazaLuxury
Fifth Avenue icon facing Central Park.
The Standard, High LineBoutique
Glass tower straddling the High Line.
citizenM New York Times SquareMid-range
Smart compact rooms in Midtown.
Pod 51Budget
Small, stylish rooms in Midtown East.
Best areas to stay
Midtown
Central for sights and shows.
Lower East Side and East Village
Bars, food and nightlife.
West Village
Leafy, charming and expensive.
Williamsburg, Brooklyn
Creative scene and skyline views.
4 days in New York City
Day 1: Central Park and the Met
Day 2: Downtown
Day 3: The West Side
Day 4: Art and the Lower East Side
See the full day-by-day itinerary
Festivals and events
Shakespeare in the ParkSummer
Free performances in Central Park.
New York City MarathonNovember
Runners pass through all five boroughs.
Macy's Thanksgiving Day ParadeLate November
Giant balloons down Central Park West and Sixth Avenue.
Getting around
The subway runs 24 hours; tap a contactless card with OMNY, and fares are capped weekly. Yellow cabs and ride-hailing are everywhere. AirTrain links JFK to the subway and Long Island Rail Road.
Practical information
- Plug types
- A, B (guide)
- Voltage
- 120 V
- Emergency
- 911
- Tap water
- Safe to drink
Tipping: 18–20% at sit-down restaurants; $1–2 per drink at bars. See our tipping guide.
Entry requirements depend on your nationality; check your government's travel advice and the destination's official immigration site before booking.
How much does it cost?
Approximate US dollar figures covering accommodation, food, local transport and sights; flights excluded.
Good to know
- Tipping 18–20% is expected at sit-down restaurants
- Walk on the right and don't stop mid-sidewalk
- Book observation decks and popular restaurants ahead
- Many museums offer pay-what-you-wish hours
New York City travel FAQ
What is the best time to visit New York City?
The best months are usually Apr–Jun, Sep–Oct. April to June and September to November are the best months, with mild weather and a busy cultural calendar. Summer is hot and humid. December is festive but cold and crowded; January and February are cheapest.
How many days do you need in New York City?
Plan on 4–5 days to see the highlights at a comfortable pace.
What currency is used in New York City?
The local currency is the US dollar (USD). Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carry some cash for markets and small vendors.
How much does a trip to New York City cost per day?
Roughly US$150 per person per day on a budget, US$330 mid-range and US$900 or more for luxury, excluding flights. Prices vary by season.
What food should I try in New York City?
Local favourites include New York pizza, bagels and lox, pastrami on rye, cheesecake, halal cart chicken over rice.
What plug adapter do I need for New York City?
New York City uses plug type A, B at 120 V. Check whether your devices support this voltage.
Restaurants, hotels and prices change. Confirm opening times and book popular places ahead. Last reviewed October 2026.