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Table of Contents
Flight Overview
Travel Time: Flights from London to New York take approximately 7-8 hours.
Average Flight Cost: You can find round trip flights from £350-£550 on average depending on the season. Using platforms like Skyscanner or Google Flights can help you find the best deals.
Best Time to Visit New York City
Spring (April-June) and Autumn (September-November) are the best times to visit, offering pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
If you’re visiting during the holiday season (December), you’ll experience the magic of NYC at Christmas but expect larger crowds and higher prices.
Summer (July-August) is warm and lively although it can be quite hot, while winter (January-February) brings chillier temperatures but cheaper accommodation.
How Long Do You Need in New York City?
A long weekend (3-4 days) is ideal for a short getaway to experience the highlights. However if you want to dive deeper into the city’s endless offerings I’d recommend visiting for 5-7 days to allow for a more relaxed and thorough exploration. If you are going for your first visit I’d suggest 5-7 days to make the most of your time and explore the city to the fullest.
Where to Stay in New York City
Choosing the right area to stay in can completely shape your NYC experience. Whether you want to be in the middle of the action, surrounded by the go to food spots or close to iconic landmarks, there’s a neighbourhood for every kind of trip. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
Times Square – Best for First Time Visitors
If it’s your first trip to New York, Times Square puts you right in the heart of it all. You’ll be steps away from Broadway shows, flagship stores, restaurants and some of the city’s biggest attractions. It’s lively 24/7 and perfect if you love the buzz of the city and want to be within walking distance of places like Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park and Fifth Avenue shopping.
Why stay here:
Good to know: It can be busy and noisy, so if you’re after a peaceful night’s sleep this might not be your ideal base.
Best Hotels in Times Square
Other Hotels in Times Square
Chelsea – Best for Skyline Views & Art Lovers
Chelsea is a stylish neighbourhood that’s perfect if you love city views and a creative vibe. The area is famous for its art galleries, boutique shops and the High Line which is an elevated park with amazing skyline views. It’s also a foodie paradise with cosy cafes and trendy restaurants scattered throughout.
Why stay here:
- Incredible skyline views and sunset spots
- Great for art, galleries, and boutique shopping
- Easy access to the High Line and waterfront walks
Good to know: Some areas can feel quieter at night compared to Times Square, but it’s perfect if you like exploring during the day and having a peaceful base to return to.
Best Hotel’s in Chelsea, New York
Other Hotels in Chelsea
SoHo – Best for Shopping
SoHo is known for it’s cobbled streets, cast iron buildings, boutique shops and coffee spots that makes it a visually stunning area. It’s perfect if you love exploring on foot, hunting for unique finds and snapping those iconic NYC shots for your feed. SoHo also borders Chinatown and Little Italy making it easy to mix culture, food and shopping in one day.
Why stay here:
- Perfect for walking, shopping, and photographing the streets
- Easy access to Chinatown and Little Italy
- Trendy cafes, restaurants and nightlife nearby
Good to know: Hotels can be pricey but you’re paying for location and that SoHo atmosphere.
Best Hotel’s in SoHo, New York
Other Hotels in SoHo
Financial District – Best for History & Skyscrapers
If you love a mix of old and new, the Financial District is the place to stay. You’re surrounded by iconic landmarks like Wall Street, One World Observatory and the 9/11 Memorial. You’ll also see skyscrapers tower above historic streets which gives you a true sense of NYC’s evolution.
Why stay here:
- Close to major historical sites and museums
- Walking distance to ferries for the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
- A quieter neighbourhood in the evenings
Good to know: It’s more of a weekday hub so weekends can feel less lively but it’s ideal for sightseeing and avoiding the crowds.
Best Hotel’s in the Financial District
Other Hotels in SoHo
Brooklyn – Best for Views
Brooklyn offers a completely different NYC experience. DUMBO gives stunning waterfront views of Manhattan and is perfect for photos on the Brooklyn Bridge. Williamsburg is a hotspot for street art, vintage shops and rooftop bars. Both areas are lively, creative and full of local charm.
Why stay here:
- Amazing views of Manhattan and iconic bridges
- Trendy cafes, bars and street art
- A more local, creative vibe away from Midtown
Good to know: Public transport into Manhattan is quick but staying in Brooklyn gives you a different pace and more space to explore.
Best Hotel’s in Brooklyn
Other Hotels in Brooklyn
Things to Do in New York City
New York is literally bursting with exciting activities from iconic landmarks to hidden gems. I’ve also done a guide on the best things to do in NYC which you can read here. Here are some of the best things to do with a mix of both free and paid experiences:
FREE Things to Do in New York City
FREE Things to Do in New York City
- Central Park
- Brooklyn Bridge
- The High Line
- Chelsea Market
- Times Square
- Grand Central Terminal
- New York Public Library
- Bryant Park
Read the full blog post on the Best Things to do in New York with Prices here.
Museums to Visit in New York City
1. Met Museum
Home to over 5,000 years of art, The Met is where you can get lost in galleries filled with masterpieces. From ancient Egypt to modern works it’s a place for endless exploration. It’s perfect for an afternoon of culture and fun with your besties plus the rooftop views are a must see (note the rooftop is now closed for a major renovation and will reopen in 2030).
2. MoMA
If you love modern art, MoMA is an absolute must visit. From Picasso to Warhol, Matisse and beyond, the museum is packed with some of the most iconic and inspiring pieces you can imagine. Even if you’re not a huge art fan there’s something here that will grab your attention and make you see art in a whole new way.
3. American History Museum
One of the most iconic museums in New York featuring impressive collections of fossils, towering dinosaur skeletons to detailed dioramas and mind blowing space exhibits. There’s so much to explore and is perfect for anyone who loves science, history or just wants to feel like a kid again wandering through endless halls of discovery.
4. Ground Zero Museum
The Ground Zero Museum pays tribute to the lives affected by 9/11 through powerful photographs, personal stories and heartfelt exhibits. It’s one of those places that really makes you stop and reflect and walking through it gives a deep appreciation for the resilience and strength of New Yorkers.
5. Guggenheim Museum
The Guggenheim is just as much a work of art on the outside as it is inside. Its iconic spiral design is unforgettable, and inside you’ll find a curated collection of modern and contemporary art that keeps you inspired around every turn. The architecture alone is worth the visit and it’s perfect for those insta shots!
Observation Decks in New York City
1. Empire State Building
Probably one of the most iconic buildings in NYC!! You can experience the views from two main observation points: the 86th floor open air deck and the 102nd floor indoor observation deck. Both provide panoramic views of the city however I would opt to only visit the 86th floor as I didn’t see much difference when I went to the 102nd floor in terms of view.
2. The Edge
This stunning observation deck at Hudson Yards features a glass floor and unparalleled views of the city skyline, making it an exhilarating spot for taking in New York from above. If you’re feeling brave, you can also lean off from the skyscraper and see the city 1,200 feet above the ground!!
3. One World Observatory
A powerful tribute to the city’s resilience, One World Observatory provides breathtaking views and an immersive experience of New York’s history and skyline.
4. Summit One Vanderbilt
Summit One Vanderbilt offers stunning views and interactive art installations, making it stand out from other observation decks. The experience goes beyond the typical visit with multi sensory exhibits spread across three levels. It’s a unique blend of breathtaking views and immersive art that creates a memorable experience for all visitors.
5. Top of the Rock
This iconic observation deck provides (in my opinion) one of the best views in the city, allowing you to capture stunning photos of the skyline and surrounding areas. Top of the Rock has also introduced its latest attraction called the SkyLift. This thrilling experience lets you soar up to 30 feet above the rooftop deck in a glass elevator, offering a whole new perspective of the iconic views.
Other Attractions
1. Broadway Show
Experiencing a Broadway show is a quintessential New York moment. Whether you love musicals or plays, Broadway offers world class performances with jaw dropping talent and production. Top tip – if you’re looking for discounted tickets, head to the TKTS Booth in Times Square on the day of the show where you can score great seats at up to 50% off!
2. Basketball Match at Madison Square Garden
Madison Square Garden is home to the New York Knicks and watching a live basketball game here is an adrenaline pumping experience. The energy in the arena is electric and even if you’re not a sports fan, the atmosphere and crowd make it a memorable part of your New York adventure. It’s also a great experience to spot the celebs in the crowd!
3. Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise
If you want to see the New York skyline from the water, then you need to book a Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise. Whether you choose a daytime or night cruise, this experience provides panoramic views of landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge and the Empire State Building all from the comfort of the boat.
4. Madame Tussauds New York
Get up close with life size wax figures of your favourite celebrities at Madame Tussauds New York. Take photos with stars from the world of music, film, sports and pop culture.
5. NYC Helicopter Tour
For those who aren’t scared of heights, experiencing New York City from above is an absolute must! You’ll get breathtaking views of iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Central Park and the Empire State Building. A 15 minute tour starts from £197.
6. Bike Rental in Central Park
One of my favourite things to do in New York is taking a bike ride through Central Park. It’s one of the quickest ways to explore the park’s stunning landscape and gardens. Plus it allows you to cover more ground seeing everything from the serene lakes to the famous bridges in just a few hours.
7. The Vessel
The Vessel is one of New York’s most unique landmarks offering a stunning spiral staircase structure in the Hudson Yards area. It’s an interactive experience where you can climb to various viewing points for a different perspective of the city. The views are incredible and the open design makes it a fun spot for photos and to simply explore.
Areas to Explore in New York
SoHo
A stylish neighbourhood packed with trendy boutiques, art galleries and cobblestone streets. It’s perfect for a day of shopping, brunching and admiring street art with your besties.
Chinatown & Little Italy
These neighbouring areas are a food lover’s dream. Chinatown is packed with authentic dumplings, bubble tea spots, and markets while Little Italy is perfect for cannoli, espresso and of course pizza!
Greenwich Village
The bohemian heart of Manhattan, Greenwich Village is full of tree lined streets, jazz bars and historic brownstones. Keep an eye out for the spots that inspired Friends and other classic TV shows, plus quirky shops and cafés that make walking around here so fun.
Wall Street & Financial District
The hub of business but also full of history. Check out the Charging Bull, the 9/11 Memorial and don’t miss walking across the Brooklyn Bridge for those amazing skyline views.
DUMBO & Williamsburg
DUMBO is famous for the bridge views and cobbled streets, while Williamsburg is perfect for street art, brunch spots and has more of a laid back feel to it.
Upper East Side
Walk along Madison Avenue for designer shopping, explore the Met or simply enjoy a peaceful stroll around Central Park’s quieter corners. Don’t miss Butterfield Market which is a perfect spot to grab some treats or a coffee while you soak up the neighbourhood vibes.
Where to Eat in New York
New York has endless dining options, whether you’re after a quick bite, brunch with the girls or a fancy dinner. Here’s a mix of spots you can try:
1. Bagel Spots
- Apollo Bagels – one of my favourite spots!!
- Pop Up Bagels
- Liberty Bagels
- Zucker’s Bagels & Smoked Fish
- Brooklyn’s Bagel and Coffee Company
- Tompkins Square Bagels
- Murray’s Bagel
- Bagel Pub
- Leon’s
2. Cafe and Coffee Spots
- Caffe Paradiso
- Hungry Ghost
- Maman
- TEN THOUSAND COFFEE
- Cha Cha Matcha
- Ralph’s Coffee
- Fellini
- Do Not Feed Alligators
- Happier Grocery
3. Brunch Spots
- Sarabeth’s
- Jack’s Wife Freda
- Sadelles
- Sunday in Brooklyn
- Hole in the Wall
- Pura Vida
- chloe.
- The Butcher’s Daughter
- Two Hands
4. Quick Eats
- Joe’s Pizza
- Shake Shack
- Los Tacos No. 1
- The Halal Guys
- Scarr’s Pizza
- North Dumpling
- THISBOWL
- Katz Deli
- L’Industrie Pizzeria
5. Restaurants
- Buddaken
- Carbone
- Catch
- Tao
- Cipriani
- Monkey Bar
- Celestine Restaurant
- The Polo Bar
6. Rooftop Bars
- 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar
- Mr Purple
- The Crown
- The Rooftop at Nearly Ninth
- Westlight
- The Roof at PUBLIC Hotel
- Darling Rooftop
- Somewhere Nowhere
- Bar Cima
7. Desserts and Bakery
- The Doughnuttery
- Magnolia Bakery
- Levain
- Funny Face Bakery
- Eileen’s Special Cheesecake
- The Bearded Baker
- Sunday Morning
- Claude Bakery
How to Get Around in New York City
New York City is big but it’s easy to get around thanks to the subway and taxis.
- Subway – It’s the fastest and most affordable way to get around the city. New York no longer uses MetroCards, everything now runs on contactless tap to pay. You can tap your phone, contactless bank card or smartwatch at the turnstiles using OMNY. There’s also a 7 day unlimited option for $34, which automatically caps your fares when you tap enough times within the week, so there’s no need to buy a separate pass.
- Taxis & Uber/Lyft – Convenient for late nights or when you’re carrying all those shopping bags!
I spent 7 days in New York and relied solely on the subway the entire time and honestly it couldn’t have been easier. It saved so much time (and money), and it made getting around feel like second nature by the end of the trip (yes I felt like a true New Yorker and loved every second of that feeling).
Things to know before going to New York City
If it’s your first time visiting New York, there are a few things you’ll want to sort before you even get on the plane because it makes the whole trip smoother.
ESTA is required for most UK travellers
If you’re travelling from the UK (or another Visa Waiver country), you’ll need to apply for an ESTA before flying to the US. It’s not something you do at the airport, you apply online in advance and it’s usually approved quickly but don’t leave it until the last minute. Your ESTA is valid for two years and covers multiple trips, but your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.
Airport transfers are easier than you think
You don’t need to book a private transfer unless you really want to. From JFK you can take the AirTrain + subway into Manhattan which is much cheaper than a taxi (I’ve done a whole blog post on how to get from JFK airport to your hotel in NYC which you can read here). Yellow cabs from JFK to Manhattan have a flat fare but with tolls and tip it adds up. If you’re landing at Newark, the train into Penn Station is usually the easiest option.
You will walk more than you think (trust me, you will)
Even if you plan to use the subway, New York involves a lot of walking. Blocks are long and you’ll easily hit 15k-20k steps without trying. Comfortable trainers are not optional. Also the subway runs 24/7 which is helpful, but stations can be hot and there are stairs in many of them.
Tax is added at checkout
One thing that surprises first-time visitors is that prices you see in shops and on menus do not include sales tax. The tax gets added at the till. In New York City, sales tax is 8.875%, so just mentally add a little extra to whatever you’re buying.
Tipping is expected
Tipping in New York isn’t optional in restaurants, it’s standard. For table service, 18-20% is normal. Bars usually expect $1-$2 per drink. Hotel staff and drivers are also typically tipped. It’s built into the culture so just factor it into your budget.
Book popular attractions in advance
If you want to do places like Top of the Rock, SUMMIT One Vanderbilt or Statue of Liberty tours, book ahead. Time slots especially around sunset sell out fast.
I hope this ultimate guide to New York has helped you plan your trip and gave you a few new ideas to add to your itinerary.
