First time in New York? This New York itinerary gives you a grand but approachable tour of the city that never sleeps, whether you are traveling solo, with family, or in a group. You will hit iconic landmarks, wander neighborhood streets, eat your way through classic and local favorites, and pick up insider tips to keep your trip smooth and fun.

New York City is five boroughs of energy, culture, food, and nonstop motion. From skyline views to neighborhood hangouts, it combines bucket-list sights with tiny discoveries around every corner. Plan for a mix of must-see attractions and slow moments in parks, cafes, and markets so you come home feeling inspired, not exhausted.

Start with a morning walk around Midtown. See the Empire State Building and, if you want a quick museum fix, pop into the Museum of Modern Art. Lunch can be a classic New York deli sandwich or a slice from a nearby pizzeria. In the afternoon, stroll Fifth Avenue toward Rockefeller Center. Time your visit to Top of the Rock or the Empire State observation deck for sunset views that light up the skyline.

Evening in Times Square is a sensory overload in the best way. Watch street performers, grab dinner at a family-friendly restaurant, or catch a Broadway show. If you are traveling on a budget, head to the TKTS booth for discounted same-day tickets.

Dedicate a relaxed morning to Central Park. Rent a bike or take a walking loop past Bethesda Terrace, the Bow Bridge, and the Conservatory Garden. For families, the Central Park Zoo is a fun stop. After the park, explore Museum Mile. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is massive, so pick a few sections that interest you rather than trying to see everything at once.

Dinner options on the Upper East Side range from cozy bistros to upscale spots. End the night with a stroll along the park or a carriage ride if you want a classic romantic moment.

Head downtown to explore Wall Street, the 9/11 Memorial, and the Oculus transportation hub. Take the Staten Island Ferry for a free close-up view of the Statue of Liberty and the harbor. For a closer look, schedule a Liberty Island cruise in advance.

Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge at golden hour for incredible photos, then cross into DUMBO to sample waterfront views. Brooklyn Bridge Park is perfect for families and groups—plenty of picnic space and relaxed vibes.

Spend a day exploring Brooklyn. Start in Williamsburg for street art, indie shops, and great coffee. Smorgasburg food market (seasonal) is a must for foodies, offering everything from gourmet tacos to inventive desserts. Prospect Park and the Brooklyn Museum make a quieter alternative to Manhattan museums.

Finish the day with dinner at a neighborhood restaurant that locals love. Brooklyn nightlife tends to be more low-key and experimental compared to Manhattan, with rooftop bars and live music venues sprinkled around.

Use your last full day for whatever you missed. Explore Greenwich Village for cozy streets and bakeries, SoHo for shopping and cast-iron architecture, or the High Line for an elevated park walk ending at Hudson Yards. If you have museum energy left, the Whitney or the New York Transit Museum provide unique perspectives.

End your trip with a memorable meal. Consider a chef-driven tasting menu or a classic steakhouse experience, depending on your vibe and budget.

Greenwich Village is artsy and relaxed, great for cafes and live music. SoHo is stylish and full of shops. The East and West Villages offer intimate restaurants and nightlife. Harlem has a rich cultural history and standout soul food. Midtown is the tourist core, while Brooklyn neighborhoods like Williamsburg and DUMBO feel more local and creative.

Bagel with schmear and lox for breakfast. A classic New York slice for a quick and satisfying lunch. Pastrami on rye from a historic deli for lunch or dinner. Street vendor falafel or halal for fast, flavorful eats. Dim sum in Chinatown or dumplings in Flushing for authentic Asian cuisine. Don’t forget to try a New York cheesecake or a cronuts-style pastry for dessert.

Buy a MetroCard and learn the subway basics; most destinations are faster by subway than by taxi. Wear comfortable shoes because you will walk a lot. Book popular attractions and Broadway shows in advance to avoid sold-out dates. For sightseeing flexibility, consider a hop-on hop-off pass or a guided walking tour for neighborhood context.

Peak tourist seasons are late spring through early fall, and the holiday season is famously busy and festive. Winter can be magical but cold, so pack layers. If you want to save money, travel outside peak times and look for combo attraction passes.

Book flights and hotels early to lock in better rates. For flight deals, check options for Cheap Flights to New York and compare schedules and carriers. When it comes to where you stay, neighborhoods matter: Midtown is convenient for first-timers, while lower Manhattan and Brooklyn offer a more local feel. Find great options with Cheap Hotels in New York.

To plan activities and book experiences, browse curated options and local tours through resources like Things to Do in New York. Many tours include skip-the-line access, city passes, and family-friendly options.

Packing depends on season, but layers are your friend year-round. Bring a compact umbrella and a portable charger for your phone. Keep a copy of important documents and emergency contacts. New York is generally safe if you use common sense: stay aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas late at night, and secure valuables in crowded places.

Get to parks early on weekends to snag a calm spot. Explore weekday mornings at popular spots like the High Line to avoid crowds. Use neighborhood bodegas and local markets for quick snacks and cheaper essentials. Strike up conversations with shop owners and bartenders; they often share the best local tips you will not find online.

New York is a city of contrasts and endless curiosities, perfect for any type of traveler. A balanced New York itinerary mixes must-see landmarks with neighborhood discoveries, good food, and smart planning. For everything from flights and hotels to curated activities and local transfers, Traveloka helps make your trip easier to plan and more enjoyable to experience. Use the platform to compare options, book with confidence, and unlock recommendations that match your travel style.