top of page

Lisbon Travel Guide

A complete guide to planning a city break in New York, covering transport, hotels, attractions, food, and local tips.

Overview

Airports

Getting Around

Where to stay

Attractions

Tours & Experiences

Food & Local Eats

Visiting with Kids

Local Tips

Overview

New York City is a fast-paced global metropolis known for its iconic skyline, cultural diversity, and endless range of experiences. From world-famous landmarks and museums to neighbourhoods with distinct character, the city offers something for every type of traveller. Its constant energy, combined with food from every corner of the world and a rich cultural scene, makes New York one of the most dynamic city break destinations worldwide.

New York works best for trips of 3 to 5 days, allowing visitors to explore key neighbourhoods, attractions, and cultural highlights. The city’s extensive public transport system makes it easy to get around without a car.

Country

Currency

Population

Time zone

eSIM

United States of America

US Dollar (USD)

8.3 million

UTC-5 ( UTC-4 DST)

Check eSIM prices >

Airports

New York is served by multiple major airports handling international, domestic, and regional flights. Together, these airports connect the city with destinations around the world and accommodate one of the highest passenger volumes globally. They act as the primary air gateways to the New York metropolitan area and support both tourism and business travel.

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

John F. Kennedy International Airport is New York’s primary international airport, handling long-haul flights from around the world. It is one of the busiest airports in the United States.

Located approximately 25 km from Midtown Manhattan.

LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

LaGuardia Airport primarily serves domestic and short-haul flights within the United States. It is commonly used for regional travel.

Located approximately 13 km from Midtown Manhattan.

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

Newark Liberty International Airport serves both domestic and international flights and is a major hub for transatlantic travel.

Located approximately 24 km from Midtown Manhattan.

Getting Around

New York is well connected by an extensive public transport system that operates throughout the city. While many neighbourhoods are walkable, trains and buses make it easy to travel longer distances and move efficiently between boroughs.

Metro

Tram

Taxi

Bus

Train

Car Rental

Metro

metro

The metro is one of the fastest and most efficient ways to move around cities. It usually offers frequent service, clear station signage, and good coverage of central areas, making it a practical option for daily travel and sightseeing.

In New York City, the metro system operates extensively across all boroughs.

Bus

Buses provide extensive coverage across most cities, including areas not always served by metro or tram lines. They are a flexible option for short distances and local neighborhoods, though travel times can vary depending on traffic conditions.

bus

Buses in New York complement the metro network and serve local neighborhoods.

Tram

Trams operate mainly in city centers and busy districts, offering a convenient way to travel short to medium distances. They are often well integrated with other public transport options and easy to use for visitors.

tram

Tram services are limited and operate only in specific areas of the city.

Train

Local and regional trains are commonly used to connect city centers with suburbs, nearby towns, or surrounding regions. They are especially useful for longer distances or day trips beyond the main urban area.

train

Commuter trains connect New York with surrounding regions and nearby states.

Taxi

Taxis are widely available and provide a convenient door-to-door travel option. They are commonly found near transport hubs, hotels, and popular tourist areas, and can be useful when traveling with luggage or late at night.

taxi

Taxis are a well-known and widely used transport option throughout New York City.

Car Rental

Renting a car is usually not necessary for getting around the city itself, but it can be a practical choice for travelers planning day trips, visiting rural areas, or exploring destinations outside the main urban zones.

car

Renting a car in New York is generally more practical for travel outside the city.

hotels

Where to Stay

New York is made up of distinct neighbourhoods, each offering a unique experience. Central areas are ideal for first-time visitors who want to be close to major attractions, while other districts provide a more local feel. Thanks to the extensive subway system, many neighbourhoods offer easy access across the city.

Midtown Manhattan

Midtown Manhattan is ideal for first-time visitors who want to be close to major attractions. The area offers unmatched transport connections and excellent walkability.

Lower Manhattan

Lower Manhattan is known for historic sites and waterfront views. It suits travellers looking for sightseeing with a slightly calmer evening atmosphere.

Upper West Side

The Upper West Side offers a more residential feel near parks and museums. It’s a good choice for travellers seeking a relaxed stay with good subway access.

Chelsea

Chelsea combines galleries, dining, and walkable streets. It suits travellers who want a central location with a creative atmosphere and strong transport links.

Williamsburg

Williamsburg offers a trendy, local vibe with cafés and nightlife. It’s well connected to Manhattan by subway and ideal for travellers wanting a different perspective on the city.

Row NYC

Located near major attractions and key transit hubs. Suitable for first-time visitors.

Hotel 50 Bowery

Positioned near historic neighbourhoods with good subway access. Ideal for sightseeing-focused trips.

Hotel Beacon

Located near parks and museums in a residential area. Suitable for families and longer stays.

The William Vale

Set in a lively area with skyline views and local venues nearby. Ideal for travellers seeking a local city vibe.

Top Attractions in New York

Attractions

New York City is defined by its scale, diversity, and cultural influence. Its attractions range from world-famous landmarks to neighborhoods that showcase the city’s creative and historical depth. From iconic skylines to public parks and museums, New York’s top attractions reflect its role as a global center for art, finance, and culture. The city offers endless opportunities to explore different perspectives within a single destination.

Statue of Liberty in New York – iconic national monument

Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is one of the most iconic landmarks in New York, symbolizing freedom and immigration. Located on Liberty Island, it has welcomed millions of visitors arriving in the United States since the late 19th century.

Times Square in New York – famous city landmark

Times Square

Times Square is one of the most recognizable areas in New York, known for its bright billboards and constant activity. It reflects the city’s energy and role as a global center of entertainment and media.

Empire State Building in New York – iconic skyscraper

Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is a historic skyscraper in New York and a defining feature of the city’s skyline. It represents early 20th-century engineering and remains a symbol of Manhattan’s vertical growth.

Central Park in New York – iconic urban park

Central Park

Central Park is a vast urban park in the heart of Manhattan, offering green spaces, walking paths, and cultural landmarks. It plays a central role in New York’s daily life and urban identity.

Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York – world-class museum

Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the world’s largest and most important art museums, housing collections that span thousands of years. It is a major cultural institution in New York.

Brooklyn Bridge in New York – historic suspension bridge

Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge connects Manhattan and Brooklyn and is one of New York’s most celebrated engineering achievements. Walking across it offers views of the skyline and insight into the city’s development.

tours

Tours & Experiences

food

Food & Local Eats

kids

Visiting with Kids

Local Tips

Planning more trips? Explore other city travel guides on Travels Break:

Planning more trips? Explore other countries:

Enjoy your every trip

Traveling can be an incredible adventure, but unforeseen events can quickly turn a dream trip into a nightmare. Protect your investment with travel insurance for peace of mind while you explore the world. Whether it's a sudden illness, trip cancellation, or lost luggage, having travel insurance ensures covered when unexpected situations arise Don't leave your travel plans to chance – secure your journey today!

bottom of page