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Plan New York

United States · North America

3 days in New York

New York City, often called 'The Big Apple', is a global hub of finance, fashion, art, and culture. Its iconic skyline, diverse neighborhoods, and endless attractions offer an unparalleled urban adventure for every traveler.

Plan this trip, free

New York City, often called 'The Big Apple', is a global hub of finance, fashion, art, and culture.

When you plan it, day 1 and the last day fit your journey from home: a long flight keeps them light.

3 days5 days7 days

Day 1 · Manhattan Icons & Views

6 stops 11.8 km

MorningFerry to Liberty Island. Explore Ellis Island's immigration history.

AfternoonVisit the poignant memorial. Ascend for panoramic city views.

EveningExperience Times Square's energy. Enjoy a world-class Broadway show.

Subway is key. Ferry for Liberty Island. Walk downtown.

Make this trip yours

A free account opens every day of this guide and copies it into your own trip on your dates.

  • All 3 days, 18 stops
  • Route map and walking times
  • Edit, reorder, share with friends
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Must-see in New York

Save money shopping

Shop smarter in New York

Where prices are lower than at home, the outlets within reach, and how to get the tax back. Editorial picks; check hours and prices on the official sites before you go.

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Cheaper here than at home

  • Outlets and sportswear

    Outlet malls run 30–70% below retail, and American sportswear (Nike, Levi's, Carhartt) is cheapest at home. Sales tax is added at the till and is not refundable.

Outlet

about 1 h 15 min

Woodbury Common Premium Outlets

America's best-known outlet, 250 stores, an hour north of the city.

Getting there. Coach from Port Authority (Shortline / Coach USA), about 1 hour 15; book online.

Official site Transport

Where locals shop

  • Trader Joe'ssupermarket

    Go-to chain for affordable staples, unique packaged goods, and low-cost produce.

  • Chelsea Marketfood hall

    A vibrant indoor food hall and shopping mall in the Meatpacking District. Offers diverse culinary options, artisan goods, and a lively atmosphere.

  • Smorgasburgfood market

    Brooklyn's largest weekly open-air food market, featuring dozens of local vendors selling diverse and innovative culinary creations. A foodie paradise (seasonal).

  • Eataly Flatironfood hall

    A sprawling Italian marketplace offering a vast selection of authentic Italian food, wine, and culinary products. Features multiple restaurants, cafes, and a grocery store. A foodie's paradise.

Know before you goVisa, safety, money and getting around in New York
  • Visa: Most international travelers require an ESTA or a visa.
  • Safety: Mostly safe · 7/10
  • A day: about $250 mid-range
  • Best months: May – Jun
Read it

Know before you go

  • Money$ USD · about US$250 a day
  • LanguageEnglish
  • Local timeAmerica/New York
  • Best monthsMay · Jun · Sep · Oct
  • SafetySafe · 7/10
  • CrowdsVery busy

Safety is Travlyo’s own reading, not an official figure. Official advice: UK Foreign Office ↗

Visa

Most international travelers require an ESTA or a visa.

Read moreShow less

Check specific requirements based on your nationality before planning your trip.

Rules change: check for your passport before you book.

Getting around

NYC boasts an extensive subway system, operating 24/7, making it the most efficient way to navigate. Taxis, ride-shares, and buses are also readily available, though often slower due to traffic.

What a day costs

Per person, for food, getting around and tickets. Stays and getting there come on top.

See the three stylesShow less
  • Budget: about US$150
  • Mid-range: about US$250
  • Comfort: about US$450

Good to know

Purchase a MetroCard for easy public transport access.

4 more tipsShow less
  • Book popular attractions like Broadway shows and museum tickets in advance.
  • Wear comfortable shoes; you'll do a lot of walking.
  • Explore neighborhoods beyond Manhattan for a more local experience.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas.

Stories

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  • RRomeRomanticEchoes Beneath the CobblestonesElena Marsh · 12 days · 2 min read
  • PPragueNostalgicGold Leaf and Bitter FoamAisha Rahman · 10 days · 3 min read
  • MMadridElectricElectric Nights and Goya’s GhostJonas Lindqvist · 8 days · 3 min read

Book for New York

StaysExpedia Tickets and toursGetYourGuide

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Cover: Benjamín Gremler on Unsplash · Photos via Wikimedia Commons · Map © OpenStreetMap contributors