New York Tourism Information

The distinctive skyline of New York with its towers is one of the most photographed sites!
ℹ️ Introduction 

Perhaps one the most exciting and famous cities in the world. New York is renowned world wide as the city which never sleeps. Hundreds of movies, series and events have taken place in this fascinating city, which in itself has been an incredible and powerful tool of advertising. Even from the beginning of the 1900's New York offered travellers a land of new opportunities, but it was visited for very different reasons than today. People would emigrate from Europe due to the war and establish a new life at an emerging city, the closest to Europe by sea. 


As the city grew and grew, so did the services and the need to offer entertainment options in New York.Theatres, Concert halls, Museums, Parks and the most important statue ever erected, The Statue of Liberty, all were reasons to come to New York, to see Manhattan, the financial centre of the city, nicknamed the Big Apple.

Nowadays the city sells itself, just by its name and the typical images of its landmark buildings, which have been showcased in many movies. It seems to feel that everything possible has happened to this city on the scrips. It's one of the most cultured cities in the USA as well, where many international museums and galleries have important art pieces and displays from around the world. It's hosts a modern theatre land, music concerts, gigs, an incredible array of shops and malls, restaurants, bars, clubs, parks and even the taxis are something to photograph in this city which has so much appeal. 


Perhaps one the most exciting and famous cities in the world. New York is renowned world wide as the city which never sleeps. Hundreds of movies, series and events have taken place in this fascinating city, which in itself has been an incredible and powerful tool of advertising. Even from the beginning of the 1900's New York offered travellers a land of new opportunities, but it was visited for very different reasons than today. People would emigrate from Europe due to the war and establish a new life at an emerging city, the closest to Europe by sea. 


As the city grew and grew, so did the services and the need to offer entertainment options in New York.Theatres, Concert halls, Museums, Parks and the most important statue ever erected, The Statue of Liberty, all were reasons to come to New York, to see Manhattan, the financial centre of the city, nicknamed the Big Apple.

Nowadays the city sells itself, just by its name and the typical images of its landmark buildings, which have been showcased in many movies. It seems to feel that everything possible has happened to this city on the scrips. It's one of the most cultured cities in the USA as well, where many international museums and galleries have important art pieces and displays from around the world. It's hosts a modern theatre land, music concerts, gigs, an incredible array of shops and malls, restaurants, bars, clubs, parks and even the taxis are something to photograph in this city which has so much appeal. 


Currently it's also one of the biggest metropolis for business, were many famous firms have established New York for their central operations. Its impressive architecture of dozens of skyscrapers reaching into the sky and making you look up constantly in amazement. It is an experience few other cities can replicate. It's a long list of reasons to come to New York, the city definitely won't let you down with plenty to see and keep you busy!Currently it's also one of the biggest metropolis for business, were many famous firms have established New York for their central operations. Its impressive architecture of dozens of skyscrapers reaching into the sky and making you look up constantly in amazement. It is an experience few other cities can replicate. It's a long list of reasons to come to New York, the city definitely won't let you down with plenty to see and keep you busy!

⛅️ Climate and Temperature  🌡️

New York weather is very changeable with moderate precipitation all over the year, some heat waves occur in the summer with temperatures reaching easily 30°C or more.

On the opposite side, it can get very cold in the winter and even in the early spring. WIth minimum temperatures reaching around -10C°. Snow is concentrated in winter months in January and february. December however can be very interesting to visit due to the heavily decorated streets and shops for the Christmas season. There are also ample ice-skating rings. Snow falls in the city are also common, making it really pretty for photography and walks around the landmarks of the downtown, specially in Manhattan and its Central Park.


Summers should be avoided to do active tourism, as the humidity and high temperatures may turn July and August into very uncomfortable months to visit the city, as the air doesn't circulate much due to the agglomeration of buildings, plus it can get very hot in the subway. Additionally, it's high season, so many tourists are to be expected during the Summer, making for longer waits outside to see most of the sights. Bringing sun protection is highly advised.


So the best months to travel to New York is from March to June and from September to November for more mild temperatures (around 15-22°C), less crowded places to visit with still beautiful scenery around the parks and open spaces. Note that spring is good to travel, (March to June) though it might be rainy and cloudy. 

🚇 Transport 

The city of New York has a very large, transportation system, complex at first, but efficient, connecting not only the downtown, but all the outskirts of the city like Queens, The Bronx, Staten Island and Brooklyn. The transportation in New York comprises mostly the subway, trains (railroad), busses and ferries. 


Firstly, arriving in New York by plane is how most travellers will start a trip in the city. There are numerous other ways to arrive if coming from other states by rail or bus. 

It's also possible to travel direct by rail or bus as well from Canada. 


To start with, New York has 3 major airports:

  • JFK, John F. Kennedy which is the largest by numbers of passengers and handles the most international traffic. From JFK you can reach the city by subway (metro). The Airport has 8 terminals, all connected by a Skytrain, which runs circular reaching all terminals and it's free of charge. However to get out of the airport to reach the subway lines, you will need to pay $5. Connecting to the metro can be done by line A at Howard Beach JFK or line J/Z and line E at Sutphin BLVD/Archer Av. A ride to Manhattan or other major area within the subway network will typically cost $7.75 (plus $1 for the card). A journey of 60 min is average but always is recommended to allow plenty of time when travelling due to the amount of changes you might need to make. 
  • The second most important airport is EWR, Newark Airport, a bit further away from the city, but also it's one of the major hubs for some American and international carriers. To get to the city from EWR you can go by rail or bus. A monorail system, AirTrain Newark, connects the terminals with the Newark Liberty International Airport Rail Link Station for connection to Amtrak and New Jersey Transit service. However the most direct route is by a direct bus, the Express Bus runs between Newark Liberty Airport and New York City.It cost is $16 for one way. Buses depart from Terminal A, B and C and each one stops at Grand Central Station, Bryant Park - 42nd Street and 5th Avenue and Port Authority Bus Terminal 41st Street between 8th and 9th avenues.
  • The last airport is LGA, La Guardia, a smaller airport in the city, which handles domestic traffic mostly. To get to the downtown of the city, you can get the metro line E, F, M and R from Jacksons HTS/Roosevelt AV. Cost is $5 for skytrain plus metro fare to the downtown. ($7.75 total to downtown plus $1 for the card). 

Once in the downtown, New York is a very confusing maze of metro lines at the begging, combining with many stations, platforms and going in all different directions. It might sound hard to start with, but once you arrive and get your head around the functionality of the system, it's actually quite easy to ride and follow. Fares are cheap, and if staying for a bit longer, you can get metro cards valid for different periods of time (weeks or months),which saves you a lot of money.

The integrated system of Transportation also includes the busses. When travelling central we always recommend to take the subway, as it's the quickest and most reasonable way of moving around. The city gets very congested at times and being stuck in traffic on a bus or taxi is not the best way to enjoy your trip. Single rides are $2.75 and they a have a free transfer if you get a bus/subway within 2 hours. 

❗Attention: The subway runs 24/h on most lines, be aware that riding the subway at the weekends and late at night can be dangerous at times with many reports of theft. Always keep your belongings with you, securely and not exposing any jewellery like watches, wallets in back pockets, mobile phones etc. 

In the city there are also  numerous ferry services which can take you to other islands near by or connect to areas such as New Jersey or Staten Island. These services are used by locals and tourists alike, offering cheap crossings and a relaxed way to see the city from a sailor's perspective. Great shots can be taken from the Manhattan skyline taking these ferries. Staten Island Ferry is Free of charge


Below you can find the transport maps for New York city or you can visit MTA Travel and check for maps, timetables, fares and travel updates from the official website.

New York Metro Map PDF
Lower Manhattan Map PDF
Night Subway Map PDF
The New York Subway, the best way to move around the city!
The busses are frequent and easy to use.
Manhattan express busses are larger and can be recognised by their blue colour.

Taxis: New York's yellow Taxis are a tourist attraction in themselves for their distinguished colour and how they actually fit in quite smartly with the city when taking a pic. It perhaps a must for many travellers to take shots with one of the bright yellow cars passing by. You can even find portraits, professional pictures for sale and souvenirs featuring the taxis. If you want to ride on them, make sure the journey is short and not in rush hour! 

Only yellow taxis are allowed to pick up in Manhattan, NYC yellow taxis are very well recognised with: NYC TAXI logo, Medallion on the hood and a Plate Number. On rush hours and especially in the evening you see all kind of black cars and limos do illegal pick ups. Cars from New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and other states do take advantage of people and overcharge people usually triple the fare a NYC yellow taxi would cost you. 

As an alternative to the typical yellow taxis, you also have Uber, Lyft and Juno Apps which offer better prices. 

New York iconic Taxis!
Taxis can make for a great photo opportunity!
🍴 Food and Drink 🍹

When in New York, it's like the world of food is at your fingertips, with thousands of restaurants serving food from around the world! The cultural mix has brought every kind of ethnic food to New York City and the surrounding region. But there are a few things you need to consider and remember when wanting to dine in the restaurants around Manhattan, and in general in the busy cities. Reservations are highly recommended when planning to dine at an upscale restaurant or popular establishment, this includes lunch and also dinner. 

 

But apart from the high end restaurants, delis offering massive sandwiches and hot and cold bars are prevalent throughout the city. New York City street vendors have long been popular among food lovers who seek more casual fare, but such vendors are seeing increasing competition from food trucks, which have become a visible phenomenon in the city. Selling everything from Chinese-style dumplings and Mexican tacos to Dutch waffles and American cupcakes and coffee. 


The city's desserts and pastries are also world-famous, and there is no shortage of bakeries. Black-and-white chocolate cookiesNew York cheesecake, and Cupcakes are the main sweet cravings to try in New York. You can find a popular Greenwich Village bakeries (Magnolia Bakery) famous for its cupcakes. Another New York State food institution is Buffalo wings, which originated in Buffalo, New York. The classic wings now appear on menus across the USA and beyond, 

Other specialities in New York include, steaks, seafood, waldorf salad, Bagels or Deli-style sandwiches. 

 

As for drinks, the Manhattan cocktail is the star! (whiskey and vermouth cocktail). Also you can try the Cosmopolitan (triple sec, vodka, cranberry juice and lime juice cocktail). New York State wines are also popular but you are able to find wines from all over the world. 

❗Attention: Other things to remember is that restaurant dinner hours tend to be around 6-9pm. You will need to call up and make a reservation if you want to go to a specific type of place of higher quality. In New York being organised is key not to waste time. In regards to tipping, (a big thing in the USA), New York waiters survive mainly to tips, a 15-20% tip is customary for good service. Additionally, in many restaurants, a gratuity or service charge will automatically be added to the final bill (cheque). 

Be sure to check with your server about the policies of the restaurant where you are dining before leaving an additional tip. Also drinking age is 21, not 18, as in Europe. 
Classic burgers cooked to order are widely available.
Cheesecake is a New York dessert must!
Specialist Cupcakes are a local delicacy in the city!
🌆 Important sights not to miss!

From Wall Street's skyscrapers to the neon lights of Times Square and Central Park's calm paths, New York City pulses with an irresistible energy. World-class museums like MoMA and unforgettable icons like the Statue of Liberty are just a few highlights of this never-stopping city where there is so much on offer, both cultural and for entertainment. You will find also many ethnic areas, with traditional cuisine and shops. New York is like a little small "world" so it's not surprising you will need plenty of time to discover the city. 

The main highlights of the city are listed below:

  • Central Park: This famous park is actually a half-park, half-cultural venue, located in central Manhattan. Many of the city's most notable attractions are situated next to it or within its limits (the Guggenheim, the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the American Museum of Natural History, to name a few). It's important that you don't pass the park on your way to other places, but to spend a some time in the park itself. This 3.4 km2 heaven is a favourite for New Yorkers and tourists alike. You can come here to exercise, dine, go to the zoo and more.There's an almost impossible amount of sights to see here (including 20 playgrounds, 48 fountains, monuments or sculptures and 36 bridges). During the day time, Central Park is very beautiful but at night it can be a rest place for the cities many homeless and beggars, so it's not recommended to wander around alone during night time.
    Subway stop: Various, however the more practical stations located closer to the main attractions are 72th Street Station and 81 Street-Museum of Natural History Station.

Central Park is a great place to walk calmly and relax!
The park offers long green paths, lakes, bridges, a Zoo, many monuments and lots of benches to sit.
The Bethesda Fountain and its Terrace are the main points to visit whilst walking along Central Park.
  • The Statue of Liberty, it's the best icon of any visit to New York, this brightly shining metal sculpture draws visitors year-round. Frenchman Edouard de Laboulaye first proposed the idea of the monument for the United States in 1865. Ten years later sculptor Frederic Auguste Bartholdi was commissioned to design the sculpture. On October 28, 1886, the statue of "Liberty Enlightening the World" was officially unveiled. To get to the actual Island where the statue stands, it involves waiting a long time, at least 60 minutes, for the ferry to take you from Battery Park (in Lower Manhattan) to Liberty Island, then making a stop at Ellis Island before returning to the mainland. The first boat of the day leaves at 9 a.m, the last boat leaves around 5 p.m. The trip on the ferry costs $18.50
    Closest subway: Bowling Green Station taking line 4 or 5.

✔️Tip: Buy your tickets online at Statue Cruises to avoid waiting in line. The Reserve Ticket which also costs $18.50, gives priority access for the security screening and can save you up to an hour of waiting in line. If not, when you buy on the day, with good weather and at the weekends, it can take up to 2 hours of waiting, until you get on the ferry. 

Its possible to go up to the crown to view the sights!
The Statue can be seen easily from Manhattan and the Staten Island ferry.
Liberty Island with the Statue of Liberty
  • Ellis Island, for 62 years this was the United States' main immigration entry point. On the island, you can visit the Main Building and the Immigration Museum housed inside. To get there you need to go by ferry from Battery Park in Manhattan, first to the Statue of Liberty, before continuing towards Ellis Island. The best advice is to start your visit in the morning to cover both islands at the same time.Visiting the island itself is free, but you'll have to pay $18.50 for ferry transportation.
The main Hall at Ellis Island Immigrant Building
Ellis Island Immigrant Building back in early 1900's
Ellis Island from the ferry
  • Empire State Building: inaugurated on the 1st May 1931 it's one of the oldest but most iconic structures in the city. On a clear day you'll be able to the see the city's major highlights some 1,050 feet beneath you. In 2012, its iconic tower lighting system was modernised by replacing its flood lights with a dynamic lighting system unique to the Empire State Building, with more than 16 million colours.The Empire State is the second tallest building in New York City only to the recently topped-out One World Trade Centre is higher. The 86th- and 102nd-floor observatories are open every day from 8 a.m. until 2 a.m. Visit the Empire State Building's official website for further details on pricing and to find the lighting schedule. 
    The closest subway is 34 Street - Herald Sq Station. 

✔️Tip: If you are visiting and want to take photos with the Empire State Building in the frame, then the best advice is to visit the Rockefeller Centre. (see info below).

The Empire State Building can be seen from many points across Manhattan.
The best view is from the Rockefeller Center
At night, the top of the Empire State Building lights up!
  • Rockefeller Centre (Top of the Rock Observation deck): The Rockefeller Center complex was built during the Great Depression, providing much-needed work for New Yorkers. Construction started in 1931, and the first buildings opened in 1933, however the entire building was completed by 1939. The buildings' architecture reflects the art deco style popular at the time it was built. Rockefeller Center was revolutionary in incorporating artwork throughout both public and private spaces, adding parking garages, and having centralized heating systems. The building is now famous where skaters glide across the rink and thousands of lights glow from the enormous Christmas tree in the winter! 

    The highlight of the building and the main reason to visit is for the three observation decks at Top of the Rock, which showcase the City's spectacular skyline. The observation deck at Rockefeller Center originally opened to the public in 1933 but was closed in 1986. A newly restored and improved Top of the Rock reopened to the public in November 2005. The observation deck offers 360-degree views of the New York City skyline at 850 feet above street level. From the top you can see the city’s most prominent landmarks from the Chrysler Building to the Brooklyn Bridge; from Central Park to the Hudson and East Rivers. You can visit from 8.00 am to midnight, but most visitors choose to go during the sunset to appreciate the changing lights of the city. Tickets cost $38 for general admission with a $10 extra charge if you choose to go up at sunset hours. Check the official page Topoftherocknyc.com for more info.
    To get there by subway, you can take the B, D, F, M to 47th-50th Street Rockefeller Center Stop.
Top of the Rock Observation deck entrance
Daylight view from the Rockefeller Centre
Nighttime view from Rockefeller Centre.
  • Broadway Theatres: Broadway is theatreland in New York, the street after the same name represents the heart and soul of American theatre. All but one Broadway theatre is near the nonstop neon lights of Times Square, where you can grab dinner or snacks before the play. Most shows follow the same schedule; there are evening performances Tuesday through Saturday and afternoon matinees on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. Buying online gives you guaranteed access to a show but is not necessarily cheaper.  If you want to find cheaper tickets, you can visit the popular theatre ticket booth located in Times Square.
    The best place to buy last minute theatre plays is behind the red stairs at Times Square, you will recognise the shop instantly by its red signs. Visit TKT Booth also to check what's on. On average ticket prices can cost $50 to $100, at discounted rates. Only tickets on the day are sold the same day. 

Times Square is ideal for cheaper shopping, eating out and entertainment options!
There are over 40 Broadway shows around Times Square!
For the best prices, check for 40-50% off theatres shows on the day at the ticket booth!
  • Nearby you will also find Times Square with it's dizzying maze of sights and sounds with no real starting point. Formerly known as Longacre SquareTimes Square was renamed in 1904 after The New York Times moved its headquarters to the then newly erected Times Building. The site is also famous for the annual New Year's Eve ball drop which began on December 31, 1907, and continues today, attracting over a million visitors. The area is best to visit at night with the hundreds of billboards flashing in every corner and loads of shops, souvenir stores, eateries and tourist information points open every day of the year, many shops now being 24h. Because it's also the heart of the city, Times Square is as well, an area where pickpockets and petty crime can often happen by scamming visitors. Always stay alert of belongings at busy times and don't expose valuables.
    Many subway lines will drop you off in the heart of Times Square; the closest subway is Times Square/42 St taking lines 1,2,3, 7, N, Q, R, W trains and subway 49 St taking the N, Q, R, W trains. 
Times Square is the place where New Yorkers celebrate the New Year!
Day or night, Times Square is always exciting to visit!
Times Square is one of the busiest areas of Manhattan!
  • September 11 Memorial & Museum, serves as the primary tribute to the nearly 3,000 victims of the 2001 terrorist attacks, as well as the six lost in the 1993 bombing. The Memorial's twin reflecting pools and man-made waterfalls rest as footprints where the World Trade Centre's Twin Towers once stood. The 0.40 Hectarea sized pools are enclosed in bronze panels on which the names of every victim is inscribed. It is a beautiful place for people to gather and remember that even in the midst of tragedy, there can be beauty and peace.

    To access the memorial is FREE from 7.30 am to 9pm but tickets are needed to access the Museum which is open from 9am to 8pm. Tickets cost $26 for adults. Its recommended you book in advance if you go in high season or weekends. The Museum spans across 110,000 square feet and relays the narrative of the attacks through a series of multimedia displays, real-time recordings, authentic artefacts, and an interactive table. 
    Closest subway stop is WTC Cortland, which is served by the 1 line.

✔️Tip: On Tuesdays, admission is FREE for all visitors from 5 pm. Tickets are distributed on a first-come-first-served basis, at the Museum entrance starting at 4 p.m. 

September 11 Museum is next to the Memorial
The Memorial pools are the same size of the towers which once stood there.
Inside the museum there are many items saved from that horrific day.
  • One World Trade Center is the main building of the rebuilt World Trade Center complex in Lower Manhattan. One WTC is the tallest building in the United States, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, and the sixth-tallest in the world so far! The building reaches a total height of 541 m. Its height in feet is a deliberate reference to the year when the United States Declaration of Independence was signed. The building opened on November 3, 2014 and its observatory opened on May 29, 2015. Visitors reach the observatory via one of five elevators called 'skypods' that zip them to the observatory in 60 seconds. Along with a spectacular view, you can also see a video called 'Voices' about those who built One WTC. There's also a virtual time lapse that recreates the development of the New York City skyline and beyond from the 1600s to present day. Tickets are $35-55 for adults, depending on the ticket type. Admission is free for family members of those who died on Sept. 11, as well as those who worked in the rescue and recovery.
    You can visit the link to 
    buy your tickets here. The closest subwayis WTC Cortlandt station taking the 1 line. 
One Trade Center is viewable from many spots across New York!
The One World Trade Center replaces the destroyed Twin Towers in 2001
The massive tower can be easily recognised from the distance.
  • Grand Central Station: Opened in 1871, the terminal is a major transit hub for commuters in the city. Nowadays it's also a major tourist attraction for its architecture and style. You can see the ornate Beaux-Arts neoclassical architecture outside. Inside the main concourse, you're treated to glimmering marble floors, gold and nickel-plated chandeliers and a sky-themed ceiling. There are also many shops, cafes and places to snack in the lower dining level as well as a gourmet market. You can reach Grand Central on the 4,5,6,7 trains. The station is free to enjoy from 5:30 a.m. to 2 a.m. There are official tours, but it's best to take a free guided tour. Check the link for more info: Free tours NY.
Inside the main hall at Grand Central Station
The outside front facade of the Grand Central Station
Grand Central Station is also a live and working station for the railroad trains out of Manhattan!
  • Brooklyn Bridge, is one of the oldest suspension bridges in the country. Its six-lanes (plus one pedestrian and bicycle walkway) span the East River, connecting Manhattan to Brooklyn. Walking across the bridge remains a tourist pastime. The limestone, granite and intricate steel cables make the bridge a beautiful sight to photograph. It's well worth it for spectacular view of the Big Apple. You can take the A or C subway to High Street Station in Brooklyn and stroll along the bridge back to Manhattan. It takes about 20 minutes to walk leisurely from one side to the other.

✔️Tip: It's possible to take a short ferry to Manhattan from the Brooklyn side of the bridge and be able to take good panoramic pictures of the bridge and the city's skyline on a clear day. Take the ferry from Brooklyn Bridge Park - Pier 1. 

Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge can take 20 minutes!
Good views of the bridge can be obtained at Brooklyn Bridge Park Pier.
The Brooklyn Bridge is very busy with walkers and cyclist!
  • 5th Avenue: Renowned for being the key destination for shopping, it's heaven for those wishing to spend the credit. But also its a popular tourist destination where to admire shop windows, the latest fashion trends, international brands, jewellery shops, high-end restaurants and 4/5 Star Hotels are all in close proximity. TIP: For some, 5th Avenue's stores are out of budget, but nearby you will find parallel streets  like 7th Avenue with more reasonably priced shops like Gap, the Disney Store, Zara and Sephora amongst many more popular brands, alternative shops, boutiques, snack places and cafes.
    Closest subway is 5th Avenue Station taking the 7 line, or 5th Avenue/59th St on the N,R,W trains where you can walk alongside Central Park.
5th Avenue is recognisable by its shops and wide paths
The place for retail and high end boutiques can be found at 5th Avenue.
🖼️ Museums

✔️Tip: In regards to the museums, note that some museums work on a donation admission ticket. This means that you can even enter the museum free, however a paper ticket must be exchanged at the box-office of each museum. The trick is to, give a dollar or two and that way, the cashier will know you are only donating. If you expect to get it for free, then the cashier will think you are willing to pay the full price of normally $25! Then you will find the awkward moment to explain, you have no intention to pay that price and want to go free. Below you will some museums and information about the admision, to be sure what to expect. 

  • American Museum of Natural History, this museum is one of the most popular, and oldest of the city, founded in 1869, over 150 years ago! The museum fills visitors of all ages with a curiosity about the universe and nature. Whether you’re interested in the world below our feet, or the cultures of faraway lands or the stars light-years beyond our reach, you can always learn something new. The highlights of the museum include the displays of the grizzly bear in the Hall of North American Mammals, the 94-feet long blue whale or the prehistoric Barosaurus skeleton. The museum holds 45 exhibition halls including favourites like The Rose Center for Earth and Space, the dinosaurs, the Hall of the Universe and the Butterfly Conservatory (on display from October through May). The Museum is often very crowded, but you'll face fewer people if you visit during a weekday morning as it opens and in Winter.
    Subway: Get there by train B or C to 81st Street Station or the 1 line to 79th Street Station. The museum works on a donation policy.
    Pay what you like, otherwise they will charge you $25.
The entrance to the museum is paid donation only!
Realistic animals are on displays from all continents
One of the main attractions of the Museum is the T-rex amongst other dinosaur era skeletons!
  • The Metropolitan Museum of Artcontaining thousands of masterpieces from all over the world, most importantly Greek, Roman and Egyptian art. It would take multiple visits to fully appreciate the size of this museum, spanning an incredible collection of over 5,000 years of art from every corner of the world. As one of the biggest museums in the world, the gorgeous late 19th century neoclassical institution displays some of the finest examples of art. Some of the highlights include the Temple of Dendur, an Egyptian temple from 10 B.C., European and Asian armor, Grecian sculptures, medieval art and contemporary photography. The museum changed its policy, and now only allows free entrance to students with valid ID and residents of NY. Other visitors need to pay the full $25 "donation" fee. There are no free times as this article was published. (2019).
    Subway: You can take the 4, 5 or 6 train to the 86th St. station; the museum is located at 1000 Fifth Ave. 

Inside the Metropolitan Museum
The distinctive skyline of New York with its towers is one of the most photographed sites!
  • The Guggenheim, one of the most well-known art museums in the country. While the Guggenheim’s collection of modern art works is certainly impressive, it is also a good visit by the museums architecture, created by architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s, described as brilliant but controversial design. Opened in 1959 on Fifth Ave across from Central Park, the concrete inverted ziggernaut (a Babylonian step pyramid). The museum showcases the combination use of geometric shapes and nature, to create a gallery space that presented art along a flowing, winding spiral, with little in the way of walls to separate artists, ideas or time periods. The art is revealed at different angles along the slopes between floors. Make sure to take a break from the captivating main exhibit of the season and visit the small rooms off the rotunda to see the permanent collection, which includes works by Picasso, Cezanne, Manet and the largest selection of Kandinsky paintings to be permanently shown in America. 
    Subway: You can reach the Guggenheim on the 4, 5 and 6 trains to 86th Street Station.
    Admission is pay per visit, costing $25 for adults. But every Saturday, from 5–8 pm, you can pay what you wish for admission (cash only), the last ticket is issued at 7:30 pm. 
The Guggenheim Museum building is artistic in itself!
  • Museum of modern Art (MOMA), inside you will find the finest collections of modern art from the 18th century to today. Some of the most significant contemporary pieces like Picasso's "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon," Warhol's "Campbell's Soup Cans," Van Gogh's "Starry Night," Dalí's "The Persistence of Memory,"Monet's "Water Lilies," are the highlights and the reason why so many people come to visit. To get there it's located on 53rd Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues.
    Take the subway E or the M line to Fifth Avenue-53rd St. station, or the B, D, F, M subway trains to 47-50 Streets Rockefeller Center Station
    Admission is normally $25, but to avoid the charge ticket, go on Fridays from 4 to 8 p.m for free. Go early however, as there will many people and tickets are limited.

The Starry Night, by painter Vincent van Gogh is very popular to see in Moma!
Not only paintings, you can find any object in Moma considered as art!
The Dance, by Henri Matisse
📸 Other sights to visit!

In addition there are several other attractions and places of interest which are worth a visit if you have time on your itinerary. Considering New York is a city of culture, you should not miss the opportunity to visit some of the places listed below by their historical and cultural appeal or simply by the stunning views they offer! 


  • The Flatiron Building is one of the most curious historic landmarks in New York. The iconic twenty-one story building, best known for its triangular shape, was one of the early spectacular high-rises that have come to define Manhattan. The Flatiron Building was constructed between 1901 and 1903 at the intersection of Broadway and Fifth Avenue, at the time one of the most prominent locations in New York City. Originally the Flatiron Building featured an observation deck on the top floor, but taller buildings have taken over this function. It is still, however, a popular tourist attraction, and one of the most photographed landmarks in New York. Take the subway to 23rd Street on the N, Q, R, W trains to see the building. 

✔️Tip: Come here as well to chill, eat a lunch takeaway or read in the Madison Square Park, which is right in front of the Flatiron building. Also you will see important buildings like the Met Life building with its big clock. 

The sharp shape of The Flatiron Building gives its appeal!
Next to the Flatiron Building, you will see Madison Square Park
  • New York Public Library, This is the main Library in the city. Most people come to see the building and say hello to Patience and Fortitude (the famous stone lions guarding the entrance) and to admire the lovely Beaux-Art design. If you're in the mood to read, you'll find an exhaustive collection of maps, in addition to special collections of English and American Literature.
    Subway:To get there, take the B, D, F or M subway to 42nd Street-Bryant Park station or take the 7 line subway to Fifth Avenue. 
New York Public Library main entrance
Inside you will find beautiful reading and research rooms
Many rooms have free WIFI and sockets to work online from.
  • Radio City Music Hall, famous by celebrities performing here, the Rolling Stones or Lady Gaga to name a couple. Possible to visit only with guides. Alternatively you can always pay to watch a show taking place inside during the weekends or evenings.It's located next to the Rockefeller Centre. Subway: Take the B, D, F or M subway to 47-50 Streets Rockefeller Center Station.
  • St. Patrick's Cathedral, located also next to the Rockefeller Center. A peaceful place where to visit away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
    Subway: Take the B, D, F or M subway to 47-50 Streets Rockefeller Center Station. You can visit from 6:30 am. to 8:45 pm. each day, plus there's Mass every day of the week.

The Radio City Music Hall
Inside St. Patrick's Cathedral
You can visit every day inside the Cathedral for free.
  • Wall Street: is the main street of the Financial District of New York City. It includes famous buildings such as the New York Stock Exchange, built in the early twentieth century and the Federal Hall, rebuilt in the late eighteenth century.The name of this street dates back to the seventeenth century, when it was the northern boundary of New Amsterdam. In 1652, the Dutch built a wall, which was later torn down by the British in 1699, to defend themselves from possible incursions. Although the wall is no longer there, the name has lived on. Along the street, you can find two emblematic buildings:
    • The American Stock Exchange: All the capitalism of the USA and affecting the world takes place at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) building located at 11 Wall Street. It is by far the world's largest stock exchange by market capitalization. The NYSE trading floor is composed of 21 rooms used for the facilitation of trading. The building,  opened for business on April 22, 1903. The ringing of the opening and closing bell of the market at 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. guarantees that no trades will take place before the opening or after the close of the market. Starting in the 1870s, before microphones and loudspeakers were invented, a large Chinese gong was used. But in 1903, when the NYSE moved to its current building, the gong was replaced by a brass bell, which is now electrically operated at the start and end of each trading day. Unfortunately the building no longer can be visited, (since Sept 11, 2001). But you can learn more information about it by visiting the Federal Hall next to it (see below).
    • The Federal Hall was the first capitol of the United States. Established in the seventeenth century, George Washington was inaugurated as first President of the country here.  The Hall was built in 1700 as the City Hall and later, in 1789, was the site of George Washington’s inauguration as first President of the United States.The Federal Hall was used as Capitol for a year before Philadelphia became the provisional capital of the United States. It then became City Hall again until 1812, year in which it was demolished. Even though Federal Hall isn't the original building, it was designated as Federal Hall Memorial Historic Site in 1939. Now it's home to a small museum that explains the history of the building and which contains some important items, such as the bible that Washington used to swear his oath of office. You will also find a small tourist information centre. 

    Subway: Go to Broad St. Station taking lines J or Z or Wall St. Station taking lines 4 and 5. 

The New York Stock Exchange building
The Federal Hall is now a museum and a tourist information centre.
  • The Chrysler Building, famed by it's aesthetic appeal. Built in 1930, the Chrysler had a short-lived run as the tallest building in the city, before it was usurped of its title by the Empire State Building. You can't visit the building from the inside but from many points of the city you will be able to recognise its shape and take pictures from it. You'll reach the Chrysler building if you take the 4, 5, 6, or 7 subway lines to Grand Central-42nd St. station.
The Chrysler Building once the tallest building in New York in 1930.
The Chrysler Building at night shines by its aesthetic pointed roof.
  • Charging Bull, also referred to as the Wall Street Bull or the Bowling Green Bull, is a sculpture of a bull in motion of 3,200 kg standing 3.4 m tall and 4.9 m long. The oversize sculpture depicts a bull, the symbol of aggressive financial optimism and prosperity, leaning back on its haunches and with its head lowered as if ready to charge. The sculpture is both a popular tourist destination, which draws thousands of people a day, as well as one of the most iconic images of New York and a Wall Street icon. Note that now people touch the bull's balls for good luck! You can view taking the 4 or 5 subway to Bowling Green Station. 
Wall Street symbol, the Charging Bull.
  • The High Line, set on an abandoned rail track on Manhattan's West Side, this 2km long renovated park stretches over three of the city's most lively neighbourhoods: the Meatpacking District, West Chelsea and Hell's Kitchen. Standing 30 feet above street level, the High Line offers sweeping views of the Hudson River and Manhattan's cityscape. You'll also find changing public art installations, food vendors, picnic and sunbathing areas. You can reach the High Line to 14th Street Station taking the 1,2 or 3 trains. Access to the High Line is free. Note that you can view and go up the Vessel at the 30th Street at the end of the High Line as an added attraction to do. The closest subway is 34th Street-Hudson Yards line 7 to begin the walk to the High Line from that side. 
The high Line once was the place for a train line
Full of gardens, you can see the skyline with its old and modern constructions.
You will reach The Vessel, after the High Line walk at 30th Street.
  • United Nations Building: In 1946, the United Nations (UN) were looking for a location for their new headquarters in New York. The original plan was to use the grounds of the 1939 World Fair in Flushing Meadow Park in Queens. But when a project known as X-City on Manhattan's eastern border failed to materialize, John D. Rockefeller Jr. bought the 7 ha plot and donated it to the United Nations. This site was then used to build the UN's headquarters. The whole area was converted into international territory and officially does not belong to the United States. The largest of the four buildings is the Secretariat building, home of the UN's administration. The Secretariat building dwarfs the adjacent five story General Assembly building, the most important part of the complex, which has a seating capacity of 1,800, meetings between representatives of all UN members take place. The conference building behind the Secretariat and General assembly buildings houses the Security Council and the Economic and Social Council.
    Subway: The closest subway is Grand Central 42nd St taking the 4, 5, 6, or 7 subway lines and then walking about 10 minutes. 

✔️Tip: To access the buildings you will need to take a tour. They offer an exciting opportunity to explore the behind-the-scenes at the United Nations. You will need to book online at Visit UN and check-in at the Visitor Check-in Office at 45th Street and 1st Avenue on the day of the tour. Prices cost $22 per adult. Guided tours are 45-60 minutes long. The tour includes the visit to the General Assembly Hall, the Security Council Chamber, the Trusteeship Council Chamber, and the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Chamber. Tours are given by professional guides where you can learn about how the United Nations addresses issues such as disarmament, peace and security, human rights, and how you can support the Sustainable Development Goals.

The UN main building
The General Assembly at the UN
The Security Council Chamber
  • Coney Island and Beach, it's an amusement area in Brooklyn, in 2010, reopened its gates and returned to its formal splendor, welcoming visitors to once again ride the famous Cyclone roller-coaster. After the Second World War, Coney Island, NY was considered the city's playground. Years of neglect followed, but the arrival of the Luna Park amusement park restored the area’s lively nature. Today, thousands of people visit what has become one of the top New York beaches offering a range of fun things to do in summer. From movie nights to concerts and the wild Mermaid Parade, there’s truly an activity everyone. Popular things to try is Nathan’s Famous hot dog, attend a crazy Coney Island Cyclone game and check out New York City's only aquarium. Coney Island now features several separate amusement parks, as well as a museum, which hosts a variety of exhibits and shows.
    Subway: The easiest way to reach Coney Island from Manhattan is via the D, Q, N or F subway train to Coney Island-Stillwell Av Station. You may also take the B36, B64, B68, B74 or B82 buses from Manhattan.
Brighton Beach is very popular to travel to on weekends and sunny days!
The area is great in the evenings with a theme park and many places to eat.
Try Nathan's Hot Dog whilst visiting Coney Island!
  • Staten Island: Staten Island is located in the southernmost part of New York and is the lesser-known borough. It has a population of less than 500,000, making it the least populous borough. Making it ideal for a visit away from the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple! For many tourists, the visit to Staten Island is compensated with the ferry ride to its shores, a cost-effective way of seeing the skyline of Manhattan. Until 1975, Staten Island was called Richmond, like it's county. Nevertheless, the City Council renamed it with its original name given to it by the Dutch when they colonized the area.
    On the Island itself, you will find many colonial buildings, you can visit the Historic Richmond Town, a restored rural town with houses dating from the seventeenth century.
    The best way to reach this site is to take the S74 bus from St. George Ferry Terminal once you arrive after the ferry. Another place worth visiting is Fort Wadsworth, a fort built by the Dutch during the seventeenth century, which served to protect New York from the incursions of enemy ships. 

    To get to Staten Island, the ferry is the most budget-friendly and certainly the most scenic way to reach it. It’s free and runs 24 hours a day. The ride offers excellent photo ops of the Lower Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty. The ride only takes about 25 minutes. There is also a Staten Island subway which is included on the New York metro passes. It runs down the entire Island where you can get off at different locations, see the scenery and visit the smaller residential neighborhoods and towns. 
The Staten Island Ferry is free of charge and runs frequently from Manhattan
This is the terminal building in lower Manhattan to get the ferry to Staten Island
🌃 Nightlife

NYC is rightfully known for its nightlife. You can find all types of styles and likes from sophisticated cocktail bars and roof top hotels to friendly downtown bars, Jazz bars, dance clubs, LGBT friendly places for gigs and drag queen shows, relaxed cafes and bohemian places to chat with friends and unwind over nice music. The City’s after-dark entertainment is just as electrifying as the city itself. 


New York nightlife is non-stop and highly addictive, but it is costly and in some cases you need to reserve before going to exclusive events, gigs, concerts or even clubs.
The East Village is famous for its local bars that stay open late and its small live music clubs. The Lower East Side offers a similar nightlife scene and vibe. Soho is the cool capital, with its small chic bars attracting models, poseurs and media types. 


🌈The gay scene is headquartered in the bars of Chelsea, the West Village and Hells Kitchen


The city's best nightclub scene can be found around the Meatpacking District. Normal club closing time is 0400, although many venues are open all night. An ever-changing crop of 'after-hours' places offer entertainment until sunrise, however, alcohol cannot legally be served between 0400 and 0800 or after 2400 on Sunday.
The minimum drinking age is 21. 

❗Attention: Take care when taking the subway back at night! Its the "sleeping home" for many homeless people and beggars. Normally they don't cause problems, but on occasions alcohol or personality disorder related issues can make a trip unpleasant with some people, speaking loudly, singing, preaching or trying to engage with other travelers. Avoid any offense and if possible take the next train to avoid any unconfortable moments.

🛍️  Shopping

New York is a paradise for shoppers! It's definitely the right place to come for anyone seeking cheaper clothes and electronics! In fact, many travellers come to New York exclusively to walk down 5th Avenue and empty their wallet on the hundreds of shops offering good deals to shavy foreigerens all around the world!
The amount of stores and the quality of shops in the city will blow visitors away. Offering some of the best and most expensive shopping in the world, 5th Avenue is synonymous with classy high-end department stores such as Bergdorf's and Saks. Madison Avenue is known as the trendy road, boasting 15 blocks of celebrity designer shops such as Chanel, Jimmy Choo, and Prada. Soho is one of New York's poshest outdoor malls, with cobblestone streets and loft-like spaces creating a pretty and unique shopping experience.

But it's not only high end quality you can expect to buy, visitors on a tighter budget can still find plenty of bargains at the city's flea markets, which offer some top quality goods with stores touting designer knockoffs, antiques, jewellery, curios, thrift wear, home furnishings, and cosmetics.

Chinatown is a budget shopper's paradise with cheap knockoffs on offer, and haggling is a common practice. Century 21 is considered 'New York's best kept secret' for bargain hunters with more than 15 departments of quality and designer merchandise at 25 to 75 percent off retail prices.

New York has something to offer everyone. But note souvenirs can often be tacky, including miniature Statues of Liberty, I (heart) NY gear, New York Yankees merchandise, and Broadway posters.

5th Avenue is recognisable by its shops and wide paths
The place for retail and high end boutiques can be found at 5th Avenue.
🛌 Accommodation

The city is aimed at a wealthy visitor, with plenty of desire to stay central and splash out loads of cash for top venues and entertainment. Unfortunately New York is not the best city to come on a budget. All Hotels and accommodation businesses know how much demand there is, therefore pushing the prices up. Hostels and Motels are also available but as well it can be costly, with the additional warning that you might not get a good rest if you choose areas which are noisy. It's suggested you read reviews online before you book and make sure you stay near some subway station for the ease of moving around. 


For cheap hotels the cheapest area would be Chinatown in Manhattan, it's conveniently located and has some attraction in itself as well. Prices can start from $100 per room per night. Take into account that this might be even sharing the toilet and having an interior room! (no window). For more comfortable hotels, prices can reach easily to $150-200 per night and up to $500 for the more luxury hotels in Manhattan downtown!


However, if you are willing to stay away from the Manhattan area prices can go down easily to about $70 per night. If staying in Hotels is out of your budget, then thanks to Airbnb you can find more reasonable room options, if you are willing to share a private flat. Take notice of room guidelines, location and any extra charges. Rooms which seem cheap at first might have some surprises later on, so make sure you do some homework before booking. 

⏳ How long to stay?

With all the attractions of the city, landmarks, sights, entertainment options, walks and places to visit, New York is a huge city which can't be done in a rush. If you want to take it all in you will need a minimum of one week here, and even then, time will pass really quick. Take time to plan your visit ahead and decide what you wish to do in the days you stay to maximise your time. Consider that there is a lot of time of waiting in line for visits to attractions, and added security also will slow the visiting to certain places.

Also transportation is a major factor to take into account. If you are not staying in Manhattan, consider getting a weekly pass to save on transport and travelling often on the subway to visits your desired places will save time instead of walking the long distances from one place to another.
Planning in this city in advance is a must if you want to see the most as possible!   

  New York Photo Slide 📷