How does the MetroCard work and how much does the NYC subway cost?

MetroCards can be topped up at any station and offer a 7-day unlimited pass (~$34) or pay-per-ride (~$2.90). You can also use OMNY, the contactless payment system, by tapping your bank card or phone directly at the turnstile.

Is Times Square worth visiting or is it just a tourist trap?

Times Square is genuinely spectacular at night, but it's best treated as a place to pass through rather than linger. Visit early in the morning or late at night to experience it without the heaviest crowds.

How much time should I spend in Central Park?

Two to three hours covers the main highlights — Bethesda Fountain, Bow Bridge, and Belvedere Castle. Renting a bike lets you loop the full park in around 90 minutes.

Where can I find the best pizza in New York?

For classic New York-style slices (large and foldable), Di Fara in Brooklyn and Joe's Pizza in Greenwich Village are two undisputed legends. Juliana's under the Brooklyn Bridge is also outstanding.

What are the most budget-friendly accommodation options in New York?

Hostels in the Upper West Side or Harlem offer dorm beds from $50-80 per night. Queens neighbourhoods like Astoria are also more affordable and have solid subway connections to Manhattan.

New York in 4 Days: The Big Apple

The essential itinerary for your first NYC visit, from Manhattan to Brooklyn

4-day New York itinerary. Times Square, Central Park, Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, DUMBO, and spectacular viewpoints. With real restaurant picks and local tips.

Day 1: Midtown: Skyscrapers, Central Park & Broadway

08:30 - Breakfast at Best Bagel & Coffee
Start like a New Yorker: with a massive salmon and cream cheese bagel at this authentic Midtown joint.
09:30 - Times Square
Feel the energy of the city's nerve center. Giant screens, crowds, and the essence of Manhattan.
11:00 - SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
NYC's most modern observation deck. Glass floors, infinite mirrors, and breathtaking aerial views of Manhattan.
13:00 - Grand Central Terminal
Admire the Beaux-Arts architecture of the main hall. The ceiling with painted constellations is iconic.
14:00 - Central Park
Walk through Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge, and Sheep Meadow. In summer, rent a rowboat at Loeb Boathouse.
17:00 - Pizza at Joe's Pizza (Greenwich Village)
Quick pre-theater dinner: NYC's most famous slice shop. Thin, crispy, and perfect.
19:30 - Broadway Musical
An absolute must-do. The production quality is staggering, from classics to the newest hits.

Day 2: Downtown: History, Liberty & Greenwich Village

08:30 - Bagel at Russ & Daughters (Lower East Side)
Since 1914, NYC's finest appetizing store. Bagels with Nova lox, cream cheese, and caramelized onion.
10:00 - 9/11 Memorial & Museum
The reflecting pools where the Twin Towers stood are a devastating tribute. The museum takes the experience even deeper.
13:00 - Oculus & Financial District
Marvel at Calatrava's striking Oculus architecture. Then walk Wall Street, the Charging Bull, and the Fearless Girl.
15:00 - Free Staten Island Ferry
NYC's best-kept secret: a free ferry with views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline. Round trip without getting off.
17:00 - Chinatown & Nolita
Two adjacent neighborhoods that are worlds apart: the delicious chaos of Chinatown and the trendy boutiques of Nolita.
19:00 - Dinner in Greenwich Village
Stroll Washington Square Park and dine at Malaparte, an intimate Italian with a terrace at Hudson and Perry St.

Day 3: Brooklyn: The Bridge, DUMBO & Williamsburg

08:30 - Walk the Brooklyn Bridge
Walk from Manhattan to Brooklyn across the world's most photogenic bridge. The skyline views are unbeatable.
10:00 - DUMBO: Down Under the Manhattan Bridge
Brooklyn's most photogenic neighborhood. Find the iconic Manhattan Bridge view framed between buildings on Washington Street.
12:00 - Pizza at Juliana's (DUMBO)
Founded by Patsy Grimaldi himself. Coal-fired oven pizza with perfect crust and fresh mozzarella.
13:30 - Brooklyn Bridge Park
Walk along this riverside park with spectacular Manhattan views. Jane's Carousel is perfect for photos.
15:30 - Time Out Market (DUMBO)
Food hall featuring the best of NYC's food scene under one roof. The rooftop terrace has one of the best Manhattan views.
17:30 - Williamsburg at Sunset
The quintessential hipster neighborhood. Vintage shops, street art, craft breweries, and waterfront views at night.

Day 4: Chelsea, Museums & Farewell

09:00 - The High Line
An elevated park built on old railway lines. Greenery, public art, and unique rooftop-level city views.
11:00 - Chelsea Market
A food market in a former Nabisco cookie factory. Tacos, lobster, ramen, artisan ice cream — everything.
12:30 - The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The MET)
America's largest museum. From the Temple of Dendur to Vermeer. Impossible to see it all — pick your favorites.
16:00 - 5th Avenue & Rockefeller Center
Walk down the world's most famous avenue: luxury stores, St. Patrick's Cathedral, and Rockefeller Plaza.
18:00 - Top of the Rock at Sunset
The classic Manhattan views: Empire State Building, Central Park, and the whole island lighting up as night falls.
20:00 - Farewell Dinner at Katz's Deli
NYC's most legendary deli since 1888. The pastrami sandwich is monumental. 'When Harry Met Sally' was filmed here.

FAQ

How does the MetroCard work and how much does the NYC subway cost?: MetroCards can be topped up at any station and offer a 7-day unlimited pass (~$34) or pay-per-ride (~$2.90). You can also use OMNY, the contactless payment system, by tapping your bank card or phone directly at the turnstile.
Is Times Square worth visiting or is it just a tourist trap?: Times Square is genuinely spectacular at night, but it's best treated as a place to pass through rather than linger. Visit early in the morning or late at night to experience it without the heaviest crowds.
How much time should I spend in Central Park?: Two to three hours covers the main highlights — Bethesda Fountain, Bow Bridge, and Belvedere Castle. Renting a bike lets you loop the full park in around 90 minutes.
Where can I find the best pizza in New York?: For classic New York-style slices (large and foldable), Di Fara in Brooklyn and Joe's Pizza in Greenwich Village are two undisputed legends. Juliana's under the Brooklyn Bridge is also outstanding.
What are the most budget-friendly accommodation options in New York?: Hostels in the Upper West Side or Harlem offer dorm beds from $50-80 per night. Queens neighbourhoods like Astoria are also more affordable and have solid subway connections to Manhattan.