New York City is a vibrant, fast-paced metropolis that offers something for every kind of traveler, from iconic landmarks and world-class museums to hidden gems and unique neighborhoods. Spending 3 days in the city may feel like a whirlwind, but with a well-planned itinerary, you can experience the best of what Manhattan and beyond have to offer. Whether you’re soaking in the sights from the Empire State Building, exploring the streets of Greenwich Village, or enjoying a sunset on the Brooklyn Bridge, this guide will help you make the most of your time in the City That Never Sleeps. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure through one of the most exciting cities in the world!
Getting to New York
Getting to New York City is easy, with three major airports serving the area: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). JFK and Newark handle most international flights, while LaGuardia primarily serves domestic routes.
From the airports, you can take taxis, ride-shares, airport shuttles, or public transport like the AirTrain and subway from JFK, the NJ Transit train from Newark, or express buses from LaGuardia.
If arriving by train, Penn Station and Grand Central Terminal connect NYC to major cities across the U.S. via Amtrak, Metro-North, and regional rail services. Driving into the city is possible but can be challenging due to traffic and expensive parking. If you can, avoid it.
Where to stay in New York
New York City offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly stays. For first-time visitors, staying in Midtown Manhattan puts you close to major attractions like Times Square, Central Park, and Broadway, with hotels like The Plaza, The Langham, and citizenM Times Square offering different levels of comfort. If you prefer a trendier vibe, SoHo, Williamsburg, and the Lower East Side are great for boutique hotels and stylish stays, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and art galleries nearby. Budget-conscious travellers can find affordable hotels and hostels in Queens, Brooklyn, or New Jersey, which offer easy access to Manhattan via public transport. Wherever you stay, choosing a location near a subway station will make exploring the city much easier.
Getting around New York
New York’s public transport system is one of the most efficient ways to get around. The subway runs 24/7 and is the fastest way to travel between neighbourhoods, with an OMNY contactless payment system making it easy to pay as you go. Buses, ferries, and bikes (via CitiBike) offer additional ways to navigate the city, while walking is often the best way to explore areas like Greenwich Village, Central Park, or the Brooklyn Bridge. Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are available but can be expensive due to traffic congestion. If you’re heading to nearby cities, Penn Station and Grand Central Terminal provide access to trains and commuter rails, making day trips easy.
How to Spend 3 Days in New York
Day 1 : Iconic Manhattan
Morning: Start with Central Park and the Upper West Side
Begin your day with a peaceful stroll through Central Park, a green oasis in the heart of Manhattan, offering a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Start at the southern entrance near 59th Street, where you can admire the charming Gapstow Bridge and The Pond, a perfect spot for morning reflections. Continue towards Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, one of the park’s most iconic spots, where you can enjoy scenic views over The Lake and often hear talented street musicians performing. Don’t miss the Bow Bridge, a picturesque cast-iron bridge ideal for photos, and if you’re a Beatles fan, take a moment to visit Strawberry Fields, the John Lennon memorial, marked by the famous “Imagine” mosaic. If you’re feeling active, rent a bike or a rowboat from the Loeb Boathouse for a different perspective of the park, or grab a coffee and relax on the Great Lawn before heading to your next adventure.
For breakfast, stop by Levain Bakery on the Upper West Side for their famous cookies or a warm pastry. Alternatively you could consider a scenic breakfast or brunch at The Loeb Boathouse in Central Park, where you can dine by the lake, sip coffee while watching the rowboats, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere in the heart of Manhattan.
Midday: Museums and Fifth Avenue
Explore the world-renowned Metropolitan Museum of Art (“The Met”) or the American Museum of Natural History, two of Manhattan’s must-visit museums. At The Met, located along Fifth Avenue’s Museum Mile, you can admire iconic masterpieces from around the world, including Egyptian mummies, European paintings, and ancient artifacts. Be sure to visit the Rooftop Garden for stunning views of Central Park and the Manhattan skyline.
For a more interactive experience, head to the American Museum of Natural History, where you can marvel at dinosaur skeletons, dazzling gemstones, and immersive space exhibits. To make the most of your visit, purchase tickets online in advance to avoid long lines, plan to spend at least 2-3 hours per museum, and wear comfortable shoes, as both museums are vast. If you’re short on time, grab a museum map and prioritize the must-see exhibits. Also, keep in mind that The Met operates on a pay-what-you-wish basis for New York residents, while the American Museum of Natural History has a similar suggested admission policy.
Afterwards, walk down Fifth Avenue, one of New York City’s most famous shopping streets, where you’ll find luxury boutiques, flagship stores, and world-renowned brands like Tiffany & Co., Saks Fifth Avenue, and Apple’s iconic glass cube store. Along the way, stop at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a stunning neo-Gothic landmark, to admire its intricate architecture and peaceful interior. Just a short stroll away, explore Rockefeller Center, where you can visit Top of the Rock for panoramic city views, watch the ice skaters in winter, or take a behind-the-scenes tour of NBC Studios.
Evening: Times Square and Broadway
As the sun sets, head to the bright lights and buzzing energy of Times Square, where giant billboards, flashing marquees, and street performers create an unforgettable atmosphere. Take a moment to snap some photos on the famous Red Steps at Duffy Square, offering a great view of the vibrant chaos below. Before catching a Broadway show, enjoy a pre-theatre dinner at Carmine’s, a beloved Italian eatery known for its family-style portions, or indulge in a classic New York cheesecake at Junior’s, a must-visit spot for dessert lovers. Then, cap off the night with a Broadway performance, where world-class productions bring unforgettable stories to life. For great deals on last-minute tickets, check out TodayTix or visit the TKTS booth in Times Square, which offers discounted same-day seats to many top shows. Whether you’re seeing a long-running classic like The Lion King or a new hit musical, Broadway is the perfect way to end an exciting day in New York City.
Day 2: Downtown Adventures
Morning: Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
Start your day with a scenic ferry ride to two of America’s most iconic landmarks—the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
Tip: For the best experience, book an early morning time slot to beat the crowds and enjoy unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline as you sail across the harbor.
Once you arrive at Liberty Island, take in the majestic sight of Lady Liberty, explore the pedestal museum, or, if you’ve reserved tickets in advance, climb to the crown for a breathtaking perspective of New York. Afterward, continue to Ellis Island, where millions of immigrants first set foot in America. Walk through the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, visit the Great Hall, and even look up your own family history in the American Family Immigration History Center. The journey offers a powerful glimpse into American history, paired with some of the most stunning waterfront views in the city.
Tip: For a free alternative to visiting the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, hop on the Staten Island Ferry, which offers stunning views of both landmarks as it crosses New York Harbor. The ferry runs 24/7 and departs from Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan. To get the best views, stand on the right side of the ferry when departing Manhattan and the left side on the return trip.
Afternoon: Financial District and 9/11 Memorial
Start with a visit to Wall Street, home to the New York Stock Exchange, and snap a photo with the iconic Charging Bull, a symbol of financial resilience. From there, head to One World Observatory, located at the top of One World Trade Center, for breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline and beyond.
Next, take a moment of reflection at the 9/11 Memorial, where two massive waterfalls mark the footprints of the Twin Towers, surrounded by the names of those lost in the attacks. The adjacent 9/11 Museum offers a deeply moving experience with exhibits, artifacts, and personal stories honouring the resilience of the city and its people.
For lunch, enjoy authentic Italian cuisine at Eataly Downtown, offering fresh pasta, pizza, and gourmet market finds, or opt for a classic New York steak at Delmonico’s, one of the city’s oldest and most famous restaurants.
Evening: Brooklyn Bridge and Dumbo
Take a stroll across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge as the city lights begin to twinkle, offering breathtaking views of both Manhattan and Brooklyn as the sun sets. The bridge’s historic architecture and sweeping vistas make it a perfect photo opportunity.
Once you reach Dumbo, explore this trendy neighbourhood known for its cobblestone streets, art galleries, and hip shops. For a delicious meal, enjoy a classic New York pizza at Grimaldi’s or Juliana’s, two of the most beloved pizzerias in the area, where you can savour thin-crust pies with fresh ingredients.
Afterward, head to Brooklyn Bridge Park, a beautiful green space along the water with views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the East River. It’s the perfect spot to relax, take in the postcard-perfect scenery, and watch the city bustle below, making it a great way to cap off a visit to this charming part of Brooklyn.
Day 3: Art, Culture, and Neighbourhoods
Morning: The High Line and Chelsea Market
Start your day at the High Line, a unique elevated park built on a former railroad track that stretches through Manhattan’s West Side. As you stroll along its beautifully landscaped pathways, you’ll pass through various gardens, art installations, and observation decks offering spectacular views of the Hudson River, the Chelsea neighbourhood, and even the Empire State Building in the distance. Afterward, head down to Chelsea Market, one of the city’s most popular food halls, housed in a historic factory building. Here, you can stop for a cup of locally roasted coffee, freshly baked pastries, or a light breakfast from one of the many artisanal vendors. From smoked salmon bagels to French pastries, Chelsea Market has something for every taste, and it’s the perfect spot to refuel before continuing your exploration of the vibrant Chelsea district.
Midday: Greenwich Village and SoHo
Explore the charm of Greenwich Village, a neighbourhood renowned for its tree-lined streets, historic brownstones, and bohemian atmosphere. Wander through its lively streets, where you’ll find quirky shops, cosy cafés, and a thriving arts scene with theatres, music venues, and galleries. A visit to Washington Square Park is a must—this iconic park, with its grand arch and vibrant community of musicians, performers, and locals, is a true centrepiece of the Village. After soaking in the charm of Greenwich Village, head south to SoHo, known for its trendy boutique shopping, upscale galleries, and chic vibe. Take some time to browse the art galleries or shop for unique items at high-end boutiques. For lunch, indulge in a meal at Balthazar, a classic French brasserie with delicious pastries and hearty dishes, or head to Jack’s Wife Freda for a more eclectic menu that blends local comfort food with international flavours.
Afternoon: Museum of Modern Art or Edge NYC
Depending on your interests, spend your time in New York exploring either the world-class Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) or the Edge NYC observation deck, each offering a unique experience. If you’re an art lover, don’t miss the MoMA, home to an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. With works by legendary artists like Van Gogh, Picasso, and Warhol, as well as innovative exhibitions, MoMA offers a deep dive into the evolution of art over the last century.
For a completely different perspective, head to Edge NYC, the city’s highest outdoor sky deck, located on the Hudson Yards. From here, you’ll enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of New York’s skyline, the Hudson River, and landmarks like the Empire State Building and One World Trade Center. Whether you’re appreciating world-class art or taking in breathtaking views, these two destinations offer something truly special for any visitor.
Another alternative is to pay a visit to Grand Central Station – in my opinion a must when in New York – with its stunning Beaux-Arts architecture and the famous astronomical dome overhead. This iconic transportation hub is not only a place to catch a train but also a destination in itself, with its grand staircase, elegant chandeliers, and bustling marketplace. While you’re in the area, take a short walk to admire the Chrysler Building, just a few blocks away
Evening: Dinner in the West Village
Wrap up your trip with a delightful dinner in the cosy West Village, a neighbourhood known for its charming streets, intimate vibe, and vibrant food scene. Enjoy a quintessential New York dining experience at renowned spots like The Spotted Pig, a popular gastropub offering delicious comfort food with a creative twist, including their famous roast chicken and blue cheese-dressed fries. Alternatively, head to Minetta Tavern, a historic favorite that combines old-school New York charm with an elevated menu. Here, you can indulge in their legendary Black Label Burger, made with prime cuts of beef, or savor classic dishes like steak frites and oysters. Both restaurants are beloved by locals and visitors alike for their warm, welcoming atmospheres and consistently excellent food, making them perfect spots to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.
Finish off your time in New York with a trip to the iconic Empire State Building. From the observation deck, you can enjoy fantastic views of the illuminated streets, iconic landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge, and the shimmering lights of the Hudson and East Rivers.
Tips for Your Trip:
Where to Stay: Stay in Midtown for easy access to major attractions or opt for downtown if you prefer a quieter vibe.
Transportation: Use the subway to save time and money. Walking is also one of the best ways to soak up the city.
Timing: Start your days early to make the most of your itinerary.
Final Thoughts | 3 Days in New York
In just 3 days, you can experience a taste of everything New York City has to offer. From iconic landmarks and world-class museums to charming neighbourhoods and unforgettable dining, this itinerary ensures your trip will be nothing short of magical.
