New York in 7 Days: NYC itinerary 

During our 7 days in New York, we managed to immerse ourselves in New York to a satisfactory extent. We visited various neighborhoods. We saw the city from one vantage point and several rooftop bars. We took part in 4 free walking tours. We’ve been to an NBA game, a stand-up show in a Brooklyn basement, and a recording of a talk show with an Oscar winner.

We understood why New York is a completely different city than anything we’ve experienced in Europe, Asia and South America before.

As first time visitors to New York, we’ve admired the must-see sights such as the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Times Square, Brooklyn Bridge, and the Rockefeller Center.

The city’s fast-paced lifestyle and hustle and bustle can be overwhelming at times, but we appreciated the energy and excitement that it brings.

Overall, our week in New York was a memorable experience and we look forward to visiting again in the future to explore more of what this amazing city has to offer. Here is the summary of our 7-day New York experience.

Planning our 7 days in New York City

The search for accommodation was a cold shower because hotels in New York are pricey. That’s why we were looking for something on AirBnB with our own bathroom, access to a kitchen, high ratings, and a quiet neighborhood. The place we found in the district Astoria (near Athens Square) was a good choice – we could get to Central Park in 15 minutes. The area was clean and safe – strongly recommend it!

Also, we did our research on attractions before. We bought tickets to the Brooklyn Nets NBA game ($25 each). We monitored the possibility of participating in various talk shows on the audience (site 1iota.com). We also made a calendar of attractions and walking tours (we used Free Tours by Foot) that we wanted to do.

Apart from this, we watched a lot of live video tours. It prepared us a bit, but it was also a little overwhelming. We’re not always so well prepared and tend to go with the flow during our travels. However, this expedition had its own rules 🙂

The day has finally come…

Day 1: Trip to New York: Arrival and Times Square at Night

Our long-time dreamt trip to New York City begins. We finally landed. Legendary JFK.

The airport was a bit disappointing. No fireworks here. 😉 We quickly boarded the AirTrain to take us to Jamaica Station, the transfer point to the subway system. This trip costs 8$. But then you can buy weekly subway tickets for $33 (a single ticket costs $2,75 so it might be a good deal – for us it certainly was).

On the way to our base in New York, we were also surprised by a break dance performance in the subway. We thought we’d see a lot of situations like this over the coming week, but this one was the only one.

We checked into our accommodation in Astoria. Unfortunately, the jet lag hit hard and we had to have a nap. We woke up at 21h, but decided to kick off our trip – we ventured to Midtown and Times Square, which dazzled us with its neon lights and bustling energy. We’ve learned that the famous New Year’s Eve Ball Drop has been a Times Square tradition since 1907!

Then we grabbed dinner at Shake Shack, a well-known fast-food chain, and couldn’t resist snapping several pictures of the square before returning to our Astoria base for a good night’s rest.

Day 2: An Epic Walking Tour – 9/11 Memorial, High Line, Greenwich Village, Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO

Our first full day in New York began with the most extensive walking tour we’ve ever experienced – a 6.5-hour “New York in One Day” free walking tour. Although it didn’t cover the entire city, we visited Lower Manhattan, including Wall Street and the 9/11 memorial, Chelsea with its High Line, and Greenwich Village.

Wall Street

Wall Street, located in the Financial District of Lower Manhattan, is an iconic symbol of American finance and global commerce. This bustling street has been the heart of the U.S. financial industry since the late 18th century. Home to the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), the largest stock exchange in the world, Wall Street represents the epicenter of financial power and influence.

The area is steeped in history, with the name “Wall Street” originating from the Dutch who built a protective wall to safeguard their New Amsterdam settlement in the 17th century. Today, the Charging Bull statue, a symbol of financial optimism and market strength, stands proudly near the intersection of Wall Street and Broadway. Visitors flock to Wall Street to witness the high-energy atmosphere and explore historical sites such as Federal Hall, where George Washington took his presidential oath, and Trinity Church, a beautiful Gothic Revival building that dates back to 1846.

9/11 Memorial

The 9/11 Memorial is a poignant and powerful tribute to the nearly 3,000 lives lost during the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Situated at the site of the former World Trade Center in Lower Manhattan, this solemn space serves as a place for reflection, healing, and learning for visitors from around the world. Designed by architects Michael Arad and Peter Walker, the memorial consists of two massive reflecting pools that occupy the footprints of the original Twin Towers, with water cascading down their sides and disappearing into a seemingly bottomless void. The pools are surrounded by bronze parapets inscribed with the names of every victim of the 2001 attacks and the 1993 World Trade Center bombing

We also explored diverse neighborhoods like Chelsea (home to a fantastic food market with tacos), Greenwich Village, Little Italy, and Chinatown.

Chelsea and High Line

Chelsea is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood located on the west side of Manhattan, known for its art galleries, historic architecture, excellent restaurants, and trendy nightlife. Bordered by the Hudson River to the west and spanning from 14th Street to 34th Street, Chelsea is a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike.

One of Chelsea’s most famous attractions is the High Line, a 1.45-mile-long elevated linear park built on a former New York Central Railroad spur called the West Side Line. The High Line was transformed into a public park in 2009, and since then, it has become a beloved green space offering stunning views of the city skyline, the Hudson River, and the surrounding streets. Visitors can enjoy lush greenery, public art installations, and numerous seating areas along the High Line as they stroll above the bustling city streets. There are also various food vendors and events taking place throughout the year, making it a lively destination for people of all ages.

In addition to the High Line, Chelsea is home to several notable art galleries showcasing contemporary and modern art. The neighborhood has become a hub for the New York City art scene, drawing art enthusiasts from all over the world. Many galleries are clustered around West 24th and West 25th Streets, making it easy to explore multiple venues in a single visit.

Chelsea Market, located in a former Nabisco factory, is another must-visit destination in the neighborhood. This indoor food hall and shopping center offers a wide array of gourmet food vendors, unique shops, and eateries, making it an ideal spot for foodies and shoppers alike.

Other notable attractions in Chelsea include the Rubin Museum of Art, which focuses on the art and cultures of the Himalayas, and the iconic Hotel Chelsea, a historic landmark that has hosted numerous artists, musicians, and writers over the years.

Greenwich Village

Greenwich Village, nestled in Lower Manhattan, is a charming neighborhood steeped in artistic and cultural history. Known for its narrow, winding streets, historic brownstones, and bohemian spirit, the Village has long been a haven for artists, musicians, and writers. In the 1960s, the area was the epicenter of the counterculture movement, hosting iconic figures like Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, and Allen Ginsberg. It’s also the place where the apartment from the sitcom “Friends” was supposed to be (the sitcom was fully realized in LA).

NYC Friends appartment

Today, Greenwich Village is home to popular destinations such as Washington Square Park and the legendary comedy club, the Comedy Cellar. The Village’s street layout, which deviates from Manhattan’s grid system, can be traced back to its origins as a separate village in the 18th century.

We witnessed New York’s incredible diversity as we transitioned from Little Italy to Chinatown. For dinner, we tried the tour-recommended Wo Po restaurant, known for its celebrity autographs. Though the portions were large, we’ve had better Chinese food elsewhere. We ended the day by crossing the Brooklyn Bridge and exploring DUMBO.

Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge, completed in 1883, is a testament to the engineering prowess and vision of its designer, John A. Roebling. Spanning the East River, the bridge connects the boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn, and was the first steel-wire suspension bridge in the world. With its neo-Gothic towers and intricate web of cables, the Brooklyn Bridge has become a symbol of New York City and an architectural marvel. As you walk across the pedestrian promenade, take in the breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty. Fun fact: the bridge was so innovative at the time of its construction that showman P.T. Barnum famously led a parade of 21 elephants across it in 1884 to prove its stability.

NYC Brooklyn Bridge

NYC Brooklyn Bridge 2

NYC Brooklyn Bridge by night flag

NYC Brooklyn Bridge by night

DUMBO

DUMBO, or “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass,” is a trendy Brooklyn neighborhood known for its stunning waterfront views, art galleries, and vibrant dining scene. Cobblestone streets, repurposed warehouses, and the striking backdrop of the Manhattan Bridge make DUMBO a unique and photogenic destination. DUMBO was once an industrial hub, housing factories and warehouses in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

NYC DUMBO

NYC DUMBO view on Manhattan Bridge

We ended our day sipping a drink in one of New York’s cocktail bars in Time Out Market, enjoying the stunning view of Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridge.

NYC Time out market

Day 3: Roosevelt Island, Harlem, and Top of the Rock

A bit tired, but also hungry for more after the day before, we started our day early.

Roosevelt Island

We began our Saturday with a visit to Roosevelt Island, a small island nestled between Queens and Manhattan, accessible via cable car. The scenic ride turned out to be the highlight of our day.

Roosevelt Island, situated in the East River between Manhattan and Queens, offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. This narrow island features picturesque parks, historic landmarks, and stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. Key attractions include the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park, the historic Smallpox Hospital, and the Octagon Tower. The Island was once known as Welfare Island, housing a prison and several hospitals.

NYC Roosevelt Island Roosevelt statue

NYC Roosevelt Island

NYC Roosevelt Island cabin car

First walk in Central Park

Then we briefly walked through a part of Central Park, which amazed us with its diversity. We thought it was just the biggest park in New York City with several ponds, but actually, it offers way more. A few days later we spent 4.5 hours on a tour of 2/3 of its space. You can easily spend the whole day there, having a picnic in summer, skating in winter, or simply getting lost in its small streets and discovering well-known attractions and hidden gems.

NYC Central Park chill

Harlem

The main plan for the day, however, was Harlem. This is probably not the first idea for many tourists visiting New York, but we were very curious about its atmosphere.

It was a totally different world. Lots of action in the streets. Chaos in relation to Midtown located a few subway stops down in Manhattan. Our guide was playing music connected with particular stops every now and then.

The hit showing the atmosphere of this district was the ending. We’re already 30 minutes late. A group of about 40 people are waiting, and our guide is called by guys who can be safely called shady. They are sitting on garden chairs in front of the laundry room. It turns out that one of them has a birthday and offers our guide some unspecified alcohol. This one leads our group to sing “happy birthday” after a while.

The tour ended near the famous Sylvia’s place. At the founder’s funeral, Mr. Bill Clinton and she was a great symbol of Harlem. We didn’t have a chance to eat there because a reservation was needed. I advise you to take care of it in advance if you want to check this place out. Also check the prices, because we expected a little lower in such a “local” place.

NYC Harlem

Top of the Rock observation deck

In the evening we went to the “Top of the Rock” viewpoint at Rockefeller Center. It is worth buying tickets through Trusted Tours with the code NYTO5.

Instead of over $100 (increased sunset rate) we paid $75 for two tickets.

Definitely worth planning for 2 hours and seeing the New York skyline by day and then by night. We preferred the city view in the latter arrangement, and it would be a pity not to be able to compare.

Top of the Rock, situated in the heart of Rockefeller Center, offers an unparalleled vantage point from which to take in the city’s skyline. The observation deck, located on the 70th floor of the iconic 30 Rockefeller Plaza, provides breathtaking panoramic views of landmarks such as Central Park, the Empire State Building, and the Statue of Liberty. Rockefeller Center, completed in 1939, is a complex of 19 buildings featuring a mix of Art Deco and International Style architecture.

NYC Top of the rock by night

NYC Top of the Rock by day

NYC Top of the rock window

We visited only one viewpoint during our stay, and we think it’s a good idea if you plan a 7-day New York itinerary. We’ve chosen Top of the Rock as it’s the only observation deck in New York with open air, offering a panoramic view of New York and Central Park. Also, iconic Empire State Building is well visible from this viewpoint.

Day 4: Rainy Day Exploration – Midtown and Stand-up Comedy

Rain is common in New York, and unfortunately, it affected our trip. Sunday morning brought rain, but given our busy schedule, we had earned some downtime. Instead of staying in our room, we found a café with a street view and contemplated returning to New York in the future.

Midtown

Later, we embarked on another walking tour, this time exploring Midtown and its iconic landmarks like Grand Central Station and the Empire State Building.

Midtown Manhattan is the bustling center of New York City, home to some of the world’s most recognizable landmarks, including Times Square, Broadway, and Fifth Avenue. As the city’s commercial and entertainment hub, Midtown offers an exciting and energetic atmosphere with endless shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Fun fact: Midtown is home to the largest concentration of skyscrapers in the world.

NYC Times Square

NYC mural Midtown

Bryant Park

Bryant Park is a beautiful, 9.6-acre public park located in Midtown Manhattan, between Fifth and Sixth Avenues and 40th and 42nd Streets. Often referred to as “Manhattan’s Town Square,” the park has become an urban oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. Bryant Park is named after William Cullen Bryant, a prominent American poet, journalist, and editor who championed the creation of Central Park.

With its well-manicured lawns, beautiful gardens, and a picturesque central fountain, Bryant Park offers a serene setting for both locals and tourists looking to relax and unwind. The park is surrounded by iconic New York City landmarks, such as the New York Public Library’s Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, which adds to the park’s charm and historic significance.

Throughout the year, Bryant Park hosts a wide range of events and activities, making it a lively and engaging destination. During the summer months, visitors can enjoy free outdoor movie screenings, live music performances, yoga classes, and more. In the winter, the park transforms into a magical winter wonderland, featuring a free-admission ice-skating rink and a holiday market with unique gifts and seasonal treats.

NYC Bryant Park

NYC Bryant Park with flowers

Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Terminal, a stunning Beaux-Arts landmark located in Midtown Manhattan, is a testament to the city’s rich architectural and transportation history. Opened in 1913, the terminal serves as a major hub for commuter trains and the New York City subway system. With over 750,000 daily visitors, Grand Central is not only a bustling transit center but also a popular destination for dining, shopping, and cultural events.

The terminal’s impressive main concourse features a soaring ceiling adorned with a celestial mural, while the iconic four-faced clock serves as a central meeting point for travelers and tourists alike. The Whispering Gallery, located near the Oyster Bar, is a fascinating acoustic curiosity that allows visitors to exchange whispered messages across the curved walls. While visiting Grand Central Terminal, don’t miss the opportunity to appreciate its architectural splendor, enjoy a meal in one of its many eateries, or simply take a moment to soak in the energy of this historic transportation hub.

NYC Grand Central Terminal

Stand up comedy

In the evening, we hesitated about attending a stand-up comedy show in Bushwick, Brooklyn but decided to go with a friend from a previous tour. It turned out to be a fantastic experience, with affordable tickets and unforgettable moments. If you have a spare evening in your itinerary for New York, it’s totally worth including a stand up comedy night in The Tiny Cupboard (pro tip: check the tickets through Airbnb experiences, if you’re looking for a good deal).

Day 5: Central Park, 9/11 Museum, One World Trade Center, Greenpoint, and Rooftop Bars

Central Park

We started our day with a guided tour of Central Park, learning about its history and discovering hidden gems. It is the biggest, most iconic park in New York, and… it’s artificial – fully designed by landscape architects in 19th century.

The place was designed for New Yorkers to escape the urban bustle and reconnect with nature. In the beginning, the atmosphere was meant to be calm and thought-provoking, so all the activities that involved making noises were forbidden.

Throughout its rich history, Central Park has been home to a myriad of legends, such as the elusive white squirrels, rumored to be descendants of an escaped domesticated squirrel population. The park also pays tribute to the late John Lennon at Strawberry Fields, a tranquil memorial featuring the iconic “Imagine” mosaic.

As you stroll through the park, you’ll discover a treasure trove of famous sculptures and attractions, including the Alice in Wonderland statue, Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, and Bow Bridge.

NYC Central Park view

NYC Central Park

NYC Central Park cherries blossom

9/11 Museum

Then we headed to 9/11 Museum. It is an expansive 110,000-square-foot space located beneath the memorial plaza. Within its walls, visitors can explore a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, and personal stories that document the events of September 11th and its aftermath.

The museum’s exhibits are carefully curated to provide a comprehensive and compassionate account of that fateful day, covering topics such as the history of the World Trade Center, the heroism of first responders, and the global response to the attacks. In addition, the museum offers educational resources and programs to foster a deeper understanding of the ongoing impact of 9/11 on our world today.

On Mondays, admission is free, but tickets must be obtained in the morning (it’s not easy as the page keeps crashing, but it’s doable). We found the exhibit fascinating, though we accidentally started with the less interesting section and ran out of time to explore the more significant displays.

Greenpoint

Later, we visited the Polish district of Greenpoint, where traces of Polish heritage are becoming scarce. We dined at Polka Dot, but the food wasn’t impressive. We also learned about the history of the area, where Polish immigrants used to buy cheap properties and sell them for a substantial profit after the neighborhood’s transformation.

Rooftop bars

Then we wanted to visit one of the most recommended rooftop bar – Westlight. Unfortunately, we would have to wait 45 minutes for a table (it’s a good idea to do the reservation there if you’re planning your New York itinerary in advance), so we just took a look at the city of New York from their terrace and headed to another rooftop bar – The Crown.

The view there was impressive. We enjoyed a drink (around $19 each) before retiring for the night, wrapping up another action-packed day of our trip.

NYC The Crown rooftop bar

Another cocktail place you might want to squeeze into your New York City itinerary is 230 Fifth Rooftop bar. We didn’t have time to get there, but judging by pictures and reviews – it might also be one of the most memorable things to do in NYC.

Day 6:  Iconic New York – Statue of Liberty, Greenwich Village, Brooklyn Heights, and Brooklyn Nets NBA Game

Our day started with a visit to the iconic Statue of Liberty. We took the subway to Manhattan’s southern tip and boarded the free Staten Island Ferry, which passed near the statue.

Staten Island Ferry

The free Staten Island Ferry provides stunning views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Manhattan skyline. Though the Statue of Liberty was smaller than we anticipated, we recommend sitting at the back of the ferry for the best views of Manhattan.

NYC Statue of Liberty

NYC Manhattan view ferry

After returning from Staten Island, we visited Battery Park and the East Village. We also saw the Friends apartment building and revisited Greenwich Village. En route to the Barclays Center, we stopped by Brooklyn Heights, a scenic neighborhood with an impressive view of Lower Manhattan.

Brooklyn Heights

Brooklyn Heights, adjacent to DUMBO, is an elegant and historic neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets, beautiful brownstones, and panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline from the Brooklyn Heights Promenade. Brooklyn Heights was the first neighborhood in New York City to be designated as a historic district, preserving its 19th-century architecture.

NBA game

The evening’s highlight was the Brooklyn Nets vs. Houston Rockets NBA game. Beyond the game itself, the event’s atmosphere was incredible, with various attractions and performances during timeouts. This is an experience worth trying, even if you have only one week in New York.

NYC NBA Game Brooklyn Nets

Day 7: Talk show with Whoopie Goldberg and last points of the tour

The last day of our New York trip, we started in the ABC TV studio. We encountered some issues with the subway, but eventually made it as the last participants to a talk show recording.

We had got tickets to “The View” featuring host Whoopi Goldberg, through a website 1iota that offers free access to various talk shows (including The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon) and other events. The experience was unique and enjoyable, providing us with an insider’s look at the world of television.

NYC The view recording

After the show, we visited some less prominent attractions, such as the Mc Gee’s Pub that inspired McLaren’s in “How I Met Your Mother”, a Harry Potter store, and Madison Square Garden. We’ve also were just walking around the Midtown and visited 3 impressive spots that might not be a priority in your 1 week New York itinerary, but if you have some spare time – it’s worth visiting them to understand and know the city better.

The Museum of the City of New York

Situated in Upper Manhattan, the museum is dedicated to exploring the rich history and vibrant culture of NYC. Through a variety of exhibitions, the museum showcases the city’s past, present, and future, offering an engaging and educational experience for visitors. The museum’s permanent collection features over 750,000 objects, including photographs, prints, and decorative arts.

The Skyscraper Museum

The Skyscraper Museum, located in Battery Park City, is dedicated to the study and appreciation of high-rise buildings. Through its exhibits and programs, the museum explores the history, design, and engineering of skyscrapers, as well as their impact on urban life. Fun fact: The Skyscraper Museum’s permanent collection includes scale models of some of the world’s tallest buildings.

The New York Public Library

Being an architectural masterpiece located in Midtown Manhattan, it is one of the largest and most renowned libraries in the world. The Beaux-Arts building, completed in 1911, houses an impressive collection of books, manuscripts, and maps, as well as a range of exhibitions and events. It’s definitely one of the most popular buildings in New York, that you might know for instance from the movie Sex and the City (that’s where Carrie Bradshaw was supposed to get married).

The library’s iconic lion statues, named Patience and Fortitude, were named by Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia during the Great Depression as a symbol of the strength and resilience of New Yorkers.

Is 7 days in NYC too long?

At first glance, spending the whole week in New York City may seem like a lengthy stay. But New York is one of those cities that, in our opinion, is not enough to see – you have to feel it. Stop for a coffee in Bryant Park, have a picnic in Central Park, spend an evening watching stand-up, an NBA game, or a Broadway show. Visit Museum of Natural History, MoMA, Madame Tussauds New York gallery…

We didn’t manage to do everything on this list but we totally loved the atmosphere of this city. So NYC is still on the list of places to visit in the near future.

This time we plan to stay in New York even longer to truly immerse ourselves in the unique energy and atmosphere of the Big Apple. With its iconic landmarks, diverse neighborhoods, world-class museums, and vibrant cultural scene, NYC provides an abundance of opportunities for exploration and discovery.

NYC Big City of Dreams mural

However, if you give yourself an opportunity to spend at least a week in New York City, the chances are you’ll not only see the highlights but also gain a more authentic and well-rounded understanding of what makes this metropolis truly extraordinary.

A few practical tips for planning your New York itinerary ahead

  1. Consider investing in a New York Pass: The New York Pass offers access to many of the city’s top attractions, such as museums, observation decks, and tours, at a discounted rate. It can help you save time and money, especially if you plan to visit multiple attractions. For us it was not the best option – we wanted to have some spare time to plan
  2. Purchase a 7-day subway ticket for $33: If you’re staying in the city for a week or more, a 7-day unlimited subway pass is a cost-effective option that provides unlimited rides on the MTA subway and bus system (a single ticket costs $2.75).
  3. Compare observation decks: New York boasts several iconic observation decks, such as the Top of the Rock, One World Observatory, and the Empire State Building. We decided that the Top of the Rock will work best for us (it has an open-air terrace, a few floors to visit, view of Central Park and Manhattan, including the classic Empire State Building, and unlimited time spent on its top), but research each option to determine which offers the best view, price, and experience for your preferences.
  4. Explore rooftop bars and skybars: New York’s skyline is best enjoyed from a rooftop bar or skybar. Check popular options like Westlight, The Crown, and 230 Fifth to enjoy spectacular views while sipping on a cocktail.
  5. Keep an eye on annual events: Time your visit to coincide with famous events like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in Times Square, or the West Indian Day Parade in Brooklyn, to name a few. Be sure to plan ahead, as accommodations can book up quickly during these events.
  6. Discover hidden gems: While New York is known for its iconic attractions, there are plenty of lesser-known spots worth exploring. Consider visiting Roosevelt Island, the Cloisters, or the High Line to experience a different side of the city.
  7. Research local food options: New York is a food lover’s paradise. Compile a list of must-try eateries, from renowned pizza joints and bagel shops to hole-in-the-wall ethnic restaurants and trendy food halls.
  8. Don’t try to squeeze everything into one trip: there are plenty of attractions in NYC and you might be tempted to see as much as possible. But don’t forget to leave some spare time to just enjoy the atmosphere of this city that never sleeps.

5 best places to see in New York in 7 days

What did we like the most? There are so many attractions in New York, that if you’re spending a week in NYC for the first time, you might feel overwhelmed. Well, we did. But all the places in New York that we visited were totally worth it. The choice was difficult, but here are our top 5:

  1. 9/11 Museum
  2. Top of the rock observation deck
  3. Booklyn Bridge (by day, by sunset, and by night!)
  4. Central Park
  5. Statue of Liberty (a view from the ferry counts 😉 )

5 best things to do during your stay in New York City (our choice)

We’ve also chosen the top things to do in New York City (completely subjective) you MUST do, during your NYC trip:

  1. Sit in the audience of a TV show
  2. Go for NBA game
  3. Get a drink in at least one of the rooftop bars
  4. See a stand-up comedy
  5. Do a picnic/ice skating in Central Park

How do we feel after visiting New York City for the first time?

Before seeing the city of New York for the first time, we were afraid that we could be as disappointed with this city as many people are disappointed with Paris (the so-called Paris Syndrome). After all, this city does not have great monuments.

However, it has an amazing atmosphere. We can’t describe it, but it was great to get into it. If you plan your visit to New York, you should prepare yourself to be immersed in a fast-paced, energetic and exhilarating environment. From the bustling streets filled with yellow cabs and endless crowds to the incredible nightlife and cultural experiences, you won’t be disappointed.

One of the things that make New York so unique is the diversity of its neighborhoods. Each one has its own distinct vibe, from the trendy boutiques and restaurants of SoHo to the bohemian arts scene in Williamsburg.

Of course, there are also iconic attractions like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and Central Park that are must-sees. But there’s so much more to discover off the beaten path.

Overall, New York City is a place that you love or hate. Yes, it’s dirty, might be dangerous and it may not have the same charm as European cities like Paris. But it has its own magic that totally captivates us.