Plan Your Adventure in New York City
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Thinking about a trip to New York City? Get ready for a place that feels like a movie set, but with more hot dog stands and less dramatic plot twists. From the iconic skyline that makes you want to snap a thousand photos (and maybe a selfie or two) to the bustling streets where you can find everything from street performers to artisanal coffee shops, NYC is a feast for the senses. Stroll through Central Park, where you can escape the chaos for a moment—unless you find yourself dodging cyclists and joggers, of course. And if you’re a foodie, prepare for a culinary adventure that ranges from dollar slice pizza to Michelin-starred dining, because who doesn’t love a little contrast? So, whether you’re chasing after Broadway tickets or just looking to find the best bagel, there’s no shortage of experiences waiting for you. Just remember, in New York, if you can make it there, you’ll probably just be really tired!
Last updated on March 24, 2025
Population
8,419,600
Area
783.8 km²
Average Temperature
13°C
Official Language
English
Current Time
21:04
Merel

About Merel

Budget Travel Expert Budget Travel Specialist, 30+ countries visited across 5 continents, Expert in maximizing travel value
Merel is a passionate travel expert who has been documenting her adventures across more than 30 countries since 2015. With an exceptional talent for budget optimization and a keen eye for authentic local experiences, she specializes in finding hidden gems and securing the best possible deals for every destination. Together with her partner Michael, she has explored countless destinations - from the lush forests of Costa Rica to climbing volcanoes in Indonesia, experiencing the vibrant city life of New York, and taking an extensive road trip across Europe. Merel takes pride in her ability to create luxury experiences at affordable prices and loves sharing her money-saving strategies with fellow travelers while ensuring they don't miss out on the authentic essence of each location.
New York City Weather

What's the weather like in New York City?

New York City boasts a climate that's as dynamic as its skyline, with four distinct seasons that each have their own flair. Winters can be brisk, often reminding you that you forgot your gloves at home, while snowflakes dance like confetti during the holidays. Spring bursts forth with cherry blossoms and mild temperatures, perfect for outdoor café lounging—if you can find an open seat! Summer turns up the heat, with humidity that could make a sauna jealous, while autumn paints Central Park in stunning shades of orange and gold, making you wonder why you ever thought summer was the best season. Just remember, in NYC, if you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes; it might just change its mind!
New York City Weather
New York City tips

Must do's and try's in New York City

New York City isn’t just a destination; it’s an exhilarating buffet of flavors, traditions, and experiences waiting to be devoured. Forget the tourist traps and dive into the city’s vibrant underbelly, where each neighborhood offers a unique taste of local life. Get ready for an adventure that tickles your taste buds and expands your horizons!

  • Bagels with Lox: You haven’t truly lived until you’ve sunk your teeth into a New York bagel, chewy on the outside and soft on the inside, topped with silky cream cheese and thinly sliced lox. It’s a breakfast fit for royalty—just don’t forget to say “schmear” like a local!
  • Smorgasburg: This outdoor food market is a foodie’s paradise. Every weekend, hundreds of vendors serve up everything from ramen burgers to artisanal donuts. Warning: you may need a second stomach to handle this culinary overload!
  • The Whispering Gallery at Grand Central Terminal: Slip away from the hustle and bustle to discover this stunning hidden gem. Stand at opposite corners of the archway, whisper, and be amazed as your voice travels across the dome. It’s like a magic trick, minus the top hat!
  • Brooklyn’s Pizza Tour: Forget dining at fancy restaurants; join a pizza crawl through Brooklyn’s best pizzerias. Indulge in slices that will make you question every other pizza you’ve ever had. Cheese pulls and sauce drips included, of course!

With so much to uncover, every street corner in New York City beckons with its own story, flavor, or quirky surprise, making it a place where the ordinary transforms into the extraordinary.

Sightseeing in New York City

  • Statue of Liberty
  • Central Park
  • Times Square
  • Empire State Building
  • The Metropolitan Museum of Art
  • Brooklyn Bridge
  • One World Observatory (for the best view of your wallet disappearing!)
Plan your activity

What to do in New York City?

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Where to go?

The best areas in New York City

New York City is a treasure trove of unique neighborhoods, each with its own personality and charm. While the iconic landmarks are a must-see, the real magic often lies in the vibrant districts that showcase local culture, tantalizing cuisine, and a dash of quirkiness. So, put on your walking shoes and prepare to explore the NYC areas that will leave you with stories (and maybe a few embarrassing selfies) to tell!

Williamsburg

Once a haven for artists and hipsters, Williamsburg now boasts trendy boutiques, artisanal coffee shops, and enough street art to make your Instagram followers jealous. Don't forget to sample some craft beers while you're there—because who needs a budget when you’re on vacation?

Greenwich Village

Home to NYU students and bohemian vibes, Greenwich Village is where you can sip coffee at historic cafés and catch a live jazz show. Just be careful not to get too lost in the maze of charming streets—there's a rumor that some people never make it out!

SoHo

Known for its cast-iron buildings and high-end shopping, SoHo is the place to flex your credit card (or at least your window-shopping skills). Take a break from splurging to admire the street art—it's free, and you might just find your next favorite piece of decor!

Chinatown

Chinatown is a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and oh-so-delicious smells. With authentic dim sum and vibrant markets, it’s a culinary paradise. Just be sure to practice your chopstick skills—no one wants to be that person who struggles with dumplings!

Astoria

A melting pot of cultures, Astoria is famous for its diverse food scene, from Greek to Egyptian cuisine. It’s the perfect place to eat your way around the world without leaving the borough. Just remember to leave room for dessert—because calories don't count on vacation, right?

Transportation tips

How to get around in New York City

Navigating New York City can feel like a game of Tetris, but with a bit of planning, you'll find your way around like a local.

Public Transit Pro

The NYC subway is your best friend. With 24/7 service, it connects all five boroughs. Grab a MetroCard for easy access—just swipe and go! Don’t forget to download a subway map app for real-time updates.

Riding the subway will cost you $2.90 per ride. If you're planning to hop on and off frequently, consider a weekly unlimited pass for $34.

Taxi Tactics

Yellow cabs are iconic. Hail one on the street or use an app like Uber or Lyft. Just remember, they may not stop for you if you're standing on the wrong side of the street—choose wisely!

Taxi fares start at $3.50 plus $0.50 per additional city block. Don’t forget about surge pricing during peak hours!

Bike it Out

Biking is a great way to see the city. Use Citi Bike, NYC's bike-sharing program, with stations all over. Just remember, bike lanes are your friends, not the sidewalks.

A single ride costs $3.50, but a day pass is just $12 for unlimited 30-minute rides. Just keep an eye on the time to avoid extra charges!

Plan your journey

Ready-to use itineraries for New York City

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Get to know New York City

Frequently asked questions about New York City

Can I bring a giant inflatable unicorn to Central Park?

Not without a fight! Central Park is a free-for-all, but good luck trying to inflate that thing without attracting a crowd—or a park ranger. While you can technically bring it, just know that if you’re caught trying to launch it in the lake, you might get a stern talking-to. Also, be prepared for a ton of selfies from strangers. New Yorkers love a good spectacle, and nothing says "look at me" like a unicorn in the middle of the park!

What’s the deal with subway musicians and can I join in?

Yes, but only if you’re ready for some serious competition! The MTA has a permit system for subway performers, and let’s just say, it’s a cutthroat world. If you think you can strum a guitar and get a crowd, you better be ready to compete with some of the best buskers in the city. If you don’t have a permit, you might get a friendly nudge from a transit cop. But if you’re just there to jam, bring your A-game and a lot of charisma!

Is it illegal to eat on the subway?

Technically, yes—but good luck enforcing that! While there’s an MTA rule against eating on the subway, it’s more of a suggestion than a law. You’ll see everything from bagels to full-on meals being consumed. Just don’t bring anything too pungent (no one wants to smell your tuna salad at 8 AM), and be prepared for some side-eye if you’re munching on a messy burger during rush hour.

Can I legally walk my pet iguana in NYC?

Absolutely, but keep it on a leash! NYC is pretty chill about exotic pets, but if you’re walking your iguana down the street, you better have it leashed and under control. Be prepared for some confused looks and questions about whether it’s a lizard or a new breed of dog. Just remember, the city’s not ready for a reptilian social media star—yet!

Why do New Yorkers yell ‘Taxi’ like it’s a competitive sport?

Because it totally is! Hailing a cab in NYC is an art form. It’s all about timing, precision, and a dash of aggression. If you’re not yelling “Taxi!” with the ferocity of a Broadway star, you’ll be left watching cabs zoom by. Just remember, if you’re trying to catch one, make sure you’re not standing in the middle of the street—it’s not just a sport, it’s a dangerous game!

Can I bring my own food to a Broadway show?

Only if you want to be ‘that person’! Theaters have strict rules about outside food, and while you might sneak in a granola bar, anything more substantial will likely get you the stink-eye from an usher. If you’re really hungry, grab a pre-show snack at one of the many delis nearby. Just remember, the only thing you should be munching on during the show is popcorn—preferably from the theater itself!

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