4 days in New York City
Five boroughs, eight million people and a pizza slice on every block. A 4-day plan.
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.
Day by day
Day 1: Central Park and the Met
Walk Central Park from the Mall to Bethesda Terrace, spend the afternoon at the Met and see a Broadway show.
Day 2: Downtown
Take the ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, then walk the Brooklyn Bridge to DUMBO at sunset.
Day 3: The West Side
Walk the High Line, explore Chelsea and the West Village, and hear jazz at the Village Vanguard.
Day 4: Art and the Lower East Side
Visit MoMA, eat at Katz's or Russ & Daughters and spend the evening in Williamsburg.
Make it work
- Best months: Apr–Jun, Sep–Oct. See the season calendar.
- Book ahead: the most popular sights and restaurants, especially in peak season.
- Where to eat along the way: Katz's Delicatessen, Joe's Pizza, Russ & Daughters.
- Getting around: The subway runs 24 hours; tap a contactless card with OMNY, and fares are capped weekly.
Short on time, or staying longer?
With less time, keep the first days and skip the day trip. With more, add a slower day for a neighbourhood from our best areas to stay, or choose more from the full list of things to do.
Opening days and times change, and some sights close one day a week. Check before you go. Last reviewed October 2026.