All New York sights at a glance
What can you actually do in New York? The city is huge and the possibilities are endless. That's why you'll find an overview of the most important attractions and the most beautiful places to see here.
Our author Marion in New York
Statue of Liberty
Top of the Rock
Central Park
Empire State Building
Times Square
Grand Central Station
American Museum of Natural History
Bryant Park
High Line Park
Flatiron Building
Chinatown
9/11 Memorial & Museum
One World Trade Center
Wall Street and South Street Seaport
Coney Island
Brooklyn Bridge
Dumbo and Brooklyn Heights
Museum of Modern Art (MOMA)
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
Edge
Tip: To explore New York and its spectacular sights at a reasonable price, we recommend the New York Explorer Pass from Go City.
Cool activities in New York Map: All sights in New York at a glance
Our interactive map shows you all the sights in New York at a glance. Have fun discovering the interesting places and sites of this incredible metropolis.
The Statue of Liberty - New York's landmark 
The Statue of Liberty in front of the New York skyline
The absolute symbol and landmark that everyone in the world knows and has in mind when they think of New York is the Statue of Liberty (Google Maps). It greeted immigrants who arrived in New York full of dreams of freedom and wealth. No wonder it is one of the most visited sights in New York.
You can visit it with a boat trip and different tours where you can choose whether you want to admire it from the surrounding park ("Reserve"), the slightly higher pedestal ("Pedestal") or even climb all the way up to the crown. On the outward journey by boat, you should sit on the right-hand side, and on the return journey on the left.
How to get to the Statue of Liberty
If the view of the Copper Lady Liberty is enough for you, you can book a boat tour or a sailing trip that goes around the island but does not dock. You can also see the Statue of Liberty from higher up on a helicopter flight, which is an unforgettable experience and a must-do in New York. Not only the Statue of Liberty but also the skyline look incredible from above.
Admission: The Statue of Liberty, the Ellis Island National Immigration Museum, the Statue of Liberty Museum and Ellis Island together cost around 30 dollars (you can book your ticket here*).
Our low-budget tip: For those on a budget, there is a way to get quite close to the Statue of Liberty for free: a ride on the Staten Island Ferry to Staten Island and back, or a $3 ride to Governors Island. You can combine the latter with a visit to the island, where you can take absolutely peaceful walks and escape the hustle and bustle of the big city for a short while. From Liberty State Park in Jersey, far south on the coast, the view of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline is also magnificent.
View of the New York skyline 2 Top of the Rock - the best view of New York
In New York, you generally have a few options for admiring the city from high up. But we actually liked the viewing platform of Rockefeller Center, known as Top of the Rock, the best. On the way up, you can learn about the building's origins and about the TV and radio channels that still broadcast from the building.
At the top, you have an unobstructed view of Manhattan and Central Park; one floor below, a plexiglass screen protects you from the wind. Of course, the time around sunset is particularly beautiful here. Note: there are a limited number of tickets and the sunset time slot costs $10 more. It's best to secure your ticket for the evening in the morning or have one of the city passes that already includes the ticket.
View of the Empire State Building from the Top of the Rock
In late autumn and winter, of course, you'll have to wrap up thickly, because at the very top, it gets gnarly cold and the wind whistles around your ears. But you'll enjoy short waiting times, fewer people and an unforgettable view of the sea of lights in which first the evening sky and then the city is bathed.
Afterward, take a detour to the must-see in the run-up to Christmas: the spectacular Christmas tree and the ice-skating rink directly in front of it, which Christmas fans dream of every time they think of New York. But the square in front of Rockefeller Center is also very beautiful in other ways.
While exploring New York City, you'll need a comfortable place to stay. Consider booking your accommodation at The Evelyn Hotel on the-evelyn.hotelsofnewyorkcity.net, offering a stylish and convenient option for your visit.
Our tip: Especially at sunset, you can take great photos of Rockefeller Center.
All info:
Address:
45 Rockefeller Plaza(Google Maps).
Opening hours:
9am to 11pm daily
Info:
At Rockefeller Center, you can sometimes snag free last-minute tickets to famous talk shows
3. central park - the green lung of the metropolis
No visit to New York is complete without a walk through Central Park(Google Maps). It is definitely one of the most popular places in the city.
The huge complex in the middle of New York is so big - you could spend a whole day here and always discover something new. The great view of the adjacent skyscrapers from the cliffs of Umpire Rock, strolling over the wonderfully romantic Bow Bridge (a must for couples), visiting the Ladies Pavilion and also enjoying the great view of the park with lake view here.
New York's Central Park is the green lung of the city.
By the way, the area behind the lake ("The Ramble") is a nature reserve. You feel as if you were in the middle of greenery in a dense forest instead of in a big city. An oasis of peace in the middle of the metropolis - perfect for a break from the hectic hustle and bustle.
We also stop at the Bethesda Fountain every time we are there and listen to the singers of Cover-Story Doo-Wop under the terrace, who sing beautiful a cappella songs with a bombastic acoustic in the beautiful vault. At the entrances to Central Park, we pick up a cheap lunch from the Halal Guys or, if the weather suits, a typical American super-sweet milkshake with Sugar Sprinkles and enjoy it in the greenery.
Additionally, if you're planning to explore the vibrant neighborhood of Bushwick in Brooklyn, you can find a variety of hotels in Bushwick Brooklyn on hotelsofnewyorkcity.net to suit your preferences.
The Hall at Central Park. Don't these old tiles look great?
Central Park is great for a walking tour, as you can discover many beautiful places on foot. Of course, you can see much more of the park with bicycles that you can rent, but you are only allowed to stay on the passable paths, many of which can only be used in one direction. Nevertheless, this is definitely recommended! You can also make a detour to the next sight - the American Museum of Natural History.
View of the skyscrapers from Central Park - the city is huge and in the middle of it all is this beautiful park. The coolest travel guides for New York
We highly recommend the following New York travel guides:
4. Empire State Building
Top of the Rocks or Empire State Building - you can philosophise for a long time about which view is more beautiful. Fact is: the viewing platform on the 86th floor offers the third highest view in the city, directly after the One World Trade Center and Edge.
Here, too, the rule is to buy tickets early, because the Empire State Building has many more visitors and therefore longer queues than the Rockefeller Center.
Since it is located in the middle between One World Center and Rockefeller Center, you have a wonderful view of almost all parts of the city from here. In the run-up to Christmas, you can see the beautiful lights of the Christmas markets from the top. And, of course, the top of the building, which is lit up every day and glitters in different colours depending on the occasion.
All info:
Address:
20 W 34th St(Google Maps)
Opening hours:
9am to 10pm daily
Info:
The main observation deck is on the 86th floor. The ticket for the exclusive 102nd floor costs 77 dollars.
The Empire State Building glows in the most beautiful colours
If you'd rather skip the queues and walk the red carpet instead, ticket prices start at $113. Sunrise on the 86th floor costs $125.
Times Square 5
Like a kid in a toy shop, that's how you feel when you stand in the middle of Times Square (Google Maps) and look up where everything flashes and lights up.
The famous Times Square at night is a New York experience
There's no question that the famous square is particularly impressive after sunset, when the huge screens all around advertise a wide variety of brands, events and products.
The best view is from the red steps in the middle of Times Square. Find a spot on the steps and take your time to marvel. Musical fans will also find what they are looking for here, as there is a ticket office under the stairs where you can buy last-minute tickets for the musicals that are playing in New York at that time shortly before the start of the show on the same day.
Around Times Square you will not only find many shops (such as the famous M&M Store), but you can also walk to other attractions such as the New York Public Library, Madame Tussauds or Grand Central Station.
You have to let Times Square work its magic on you. Thousands of impressions pelt down on you here. 6th American Museum of Natural History
One thing in advance: you need a lot of time here. The American Museum of Natural History is one of the largest museums in the world.
You're not really a museum-goer? Don't worry, neither are we. But here, in 25 interconnected buildings on several floors, natural history from the Stone Age to life in outer space is presented in such a vivid and entertaining way that you really feel like you're in the film "Night at the Museum".
The American Museum of Natural History is a great destination for families with children, as they can learn a lot about the history of nature and mankind. The dinosaurs in particular are an absolute crowd puller for the little visitors.
If you don't have time to spend hours wandering through the exhibitions, you can choose the ones that interest you most from the clearly arranged themed areas. If you really want to see everything, you should reckon with a whole day. For example, you can plan the museum as an exciting alternative in case of bad weather!
All info:
Address:
200 Central Park West (Google Maps)
Opening hours:
10am to 5:30pm daily
Info:
The museum has a free app to explore the exhibitions
At the Natural History Museum you can also find dinosaurs
In addition to normal tickets, there is also the General Admission + One ticket - including a special exhibition, a film on the big screen or a space show. This costs 34 dollars for adults.
The General Admission + All ticket (everything: special exhibition, a film on the big screen and a space show) costs 39 dollars for adults.
7. Grand Central Station
After the overwhelming sea of lights and between the unbelievably high skyscrapers, you could almost overlook the small station building of Grand Central Station(Google Maps), it seems so inconspicuous. But only until you step inside and feel as if you are in another time.
In 2013, the world's largest railway station celebrated its 100th birthday, and you can still sense a little bit of how travellers rushed through the large reception hall to steam locomotive trains. The main hall alone, with its beautifully painted roof that draws the eye to the starry sky, looks as if you are standing in a magnificent cathedral.
Together with the famous, valuable golden clock above the information desk, the image of the hall is familiar from many a film shot here. But besides the impressive main room with its chandeliers, there is another little insider tip in the basement next to the dining area.
It's the Whispering Gallery, where, thanks to special acoustics, even softly whispered words can be clearly heard at the other end of the round arch. A tour through the station is worthwhile in any case and reveals one or two secrets that the building has collected in more than 100 years.
Grand Central Station is always a highlight 8 Bryant Park
When you're out and about in New York, you always discover little green oases amidst the tall skyscrapers that invite you to take a break from the hustle and bustle. One of them, our favourite after Central Park, is Bryant Park(Google Maps).
Whether summer or winter, the small park offers something very special at any time of year. Always the same, by the way, are the characteristic metal folding chairs that make the park instantly recognisable in every photo. In summer, you can watch films for free in the open-air cinema, go to open-air yoga together or play board games. In winter, the park is home to New York's largest and most beautiful Christmas market, Winter Village.
Right next to the Winter Village, you can also skate a few laps on the ice rink "The Rink" or buy a Christmas present or two in the small stalls of local traders and producers.
The Winter Village is also the first Christmas market and opens at the end of October. Be sure to try the hot chocolate with super delicious giant marshmallows! By the way, it's right next to the New York Public Library, which you also have to visit!
The beautiful Bryant Park in New York 9 High Line Park
While we're on the subject of beautiful parks in New York: since 2009, there's another highlight that I visit every time: the High Line Park in Western New York(Google Maps). Along disused tracks that were used to transport cattle in the 1930s, the planted terrace stretches from Gansevoort Street to 34th Street.
Today, the former slaughterhouses are home to trendy hotels, bars, restaurants and flats. At several points you can climb "up" the park, partly with stairs, partly with lifts. At the northernmost end of the High Line Park, a luxury district, Hudson Yards, was added a few years ago. This is also where you'll find the Edge observation deck, which you'll learn more about later.
Highline Park in New York is a real experience
At the southern end of High Line Park, you enter one of New York's most popular neighbourhoods: Chelsea. Here we enjoyed delicious tacos at the Chelsea Market and were able to escape the rainy weather. In the old halls of the former Oreo biscuit factory from 1890, you can now find various street food stands, restaurants, bakeries and vendors.
For Halloween, the aisles between the shops were also spookily decorated, which went perfectly with the old walls. A few streets away, we had a coffee at (yes, really) Starbucks. You can hardly get past the coffee shop chain in New York, and if there's one branch worth recommending, it's the Starbucks Reserve Roastery.
There is a lot to discover on 3 floors: of course, lots of coffee. Watch the production process and try one of the many coffee specialities. On the lowest floor, you can treat yourself to a cocktail at the bar - with or without coffee. And if you want to take something home to enjoy, you can buy coffee or all kinds of coffee-making accessories, pastries and souvenirs.
View from High Line Park. The area here is artistic and colourful 
Another work of art right next to High Line Park 9. Flatiron Building
You know it from so many postcard motifs and pictures from New York: the unusual, narrow high-rise building, which has been given the name "Flatiron" because of its triangular shape.
The office building from 1902 with the historic clock in the foreground nestles exactly in the narrow corner where 5th Avenue and Broadway intersect at the level of 23rd Street(Google Maps). Together with the small forecourt and the adjacent Madison Square Park, the Flatiron forms a beautiful photo motif.
Impressive: The Flatiron Building with the famous clock. 10 Chinatown
If you turn south-east on Canal Street in Lower Manhattan, you will suddenly find yourself in another world. Without leaving the city, you suddenly feel like you're in the middle of China. Chinese street signs, street vendors with chicken feet and similar bizarre food and garish kitsch line the streets in Chinatown (Google Maps).
This fish stall in Chinatown looks adventurous
Unusually intense smells permeate the blocks everywhere. Furthermore, only about 50 per cent of Chinatown's inhabitants still speak English.
The descendants of the first Chinese immigrants have built their own political, cultural and culinary world in the middle of New York, and New Yorkers and tourists can visit it super easily by metro. So if you want cheap, authentic and good Chinese food and shopping, this is the place to be.
This special district is really worth a visit!
Welcome to Chinatown. See all the Chinese lettering? 11. 9/11 Memorial & Museum
Almost everyone probably still has the terrible images in their minds of the collapsing twin towers of the World Trade Center. The attacks on 11 September 2001 not only noticeably changed New York, but the entire world.
The site where the two skyscrapers once stood has now been transformed into a fitting memorial - the 9/11 Memorial. It's a must-see when you're in New York. There is an absolutely reverent atmosphere that you have to experience for yourself.
The designers of the memorial have managed to create this oppressive feeling by preserving the original foundations of the Twin Towers and creating nine-metre-deep water basins. This gives the viewer an impression of the enormous size of the former World Trade Center. The memorial is also called "Reflecting Absence" - a visualisation of the emptiness left by the attacks.
The walls of the pool, from which the water cascades into the centre, are another important part of the memorial. Namely, the names of the total of 2983 victims of the terrorist attacks are engraved here. In addition, the waterfalls are meant to block out the noise of the city and create a quiet, reverent mood.
On the World Trade Center complex, which is also called "Ground Zero" from military lingo, there is also a museum next to or under the memorial. It contains original artefacts, pictures and videos, so that the events of 11 September are vividly brought home to visitors. It is also intended to preserve the memory of the victims.
However, a new landmark was also built on the same site: the One World Trade Center, our next sight.
All info:
Address:
180 Greenwich St (Google Maps)
Opening hours:
10am to 5pm daily, closed Tuesday
Info:
The memorial with the two water basins does not charge admission and is open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
12. One World Trade Center
At 104 floors and 542 metres, One World Trade Center is the tallest building in New York and stands out almost from anywhere on the skyline.
From the observation deck, the One World Observatory, which extends from the 100th to the 102nd floor, you can enjoy a wonderful panoramic view of New York, New Jersey, Brooklyn, the Statue of Liberty and even Central Park through floor-to-ceiling windows.
In addition to the six other skyscrapers that are still to be built on the site of the former Twin Towers, some of which are still under construction, the futuristic shopping station "The Oculus" was also opened here. Like a gigantic eye with eyelashes, it looks down on the One World Trade Center!
After so much amazement, we first fortified ourselves in the gigantic "Eataly" Food Market. In the store of the Italian restaurant and market chain, you can find authentic Italian products to cook yourself, but you can also try delicious dishes and wines in one of the 5 restaurants and bars and feel like you're on holiday in Italy - and with an excellent view of the One World Trade Center.
All info:
Address:
285 Fulton St(Google Maps)
Opening hours:
9am to 8pm daily
Info:
Enjoy an exclusive dinner with the ONE Dine ticket from $105
The Freedom Tower of the One World Trade Center 13th Wall Street and South Street Seaport
Another film from the Hollywood machinery then lured us to the city's stock exchange district, for it is here, on Wall Street(Google Maps), that "The Wolf of Wall Street" is set.
The city's financial sector, with its banks and the world's largest stock exchange, has its headquarters here and, especially in the 1980s, provided for many a dream of wealth and also for some scandals. Next to the façade of the stock exchange building, the New York Stock Exchange, you can still see the characteristic bull that embodies the stock exchange.
The New York Stock Exchange
A few blocks away, on the shore of Lower Manhattan, you can also breathe in a little historical air: in the landmarked South Street Seaport district, you will feel transported back to the 19th century, when trade flourished here and shipping was very important.
Today, the old brick buildings house modern shops of current brands, restaurants and bars, but also a museum. The facades and cobblestones have been retained and create a charm all their own.
The Bull on Wall Street 15 Coney Island
An hour away from Manhattan is a recreation and adventure area Coney Island(Google Maps), which especially locals visit during the summer heat to cool off in the ocean and relax on Brighton Beach.
Directly behind the beach, the amusement mile begins with Luna Park. The small amusement park with celebrities such as the over 80-year-old rickety Cyclone roller coaster and the Wonder Wheel Ferris wheel brings thrills and fun for young and old.
Curious events such as the Mermaid Parade or the traditional hot dog eating contest at Nathan's Famous add to the special nostalgic charm of Coney Island.
16 Brooklyn Bridge
One of our favourite boroughs in New York is Brooklyn. And for us, there is only one way between Manhattan and Brooklyn at least several times per stay: across the Brooklyn Bridge(Google Maps).
You simply have to see this New York landmark .
The famous Brooklyn Bridge at dawn
We definitely plan one crossing during the day and one in the dark, because at any time of day, the view of the Manhattan coastline is simply gorgeous. You'll stop several times to take photos, so the crossing takes a bit of time, but it's worth it!
Even though it's usually crowded with pedestrians and wildly ringing cyclists weaving through the tourists, we love walking across the Brooklyn Bridge. The bridge with its steel construction is simply impressive. It ends at Brooklyn Dumbo, where you can continue sightseeing right away.
My photo tip: to photograph the Brooklyn Bridge empty of people, you have to be here in the morning at sunrise.
17 Dumbo and Brooklyn Heights
When you arrive in Dumbo (Google Maps), the most important thing is to keep your eyes open. Walking along the coast and in Brooklyn Bridge Park between Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridge, there are many cool places and secret corners to discover. Great restaurants, beautiful spots to relax and unwind with the best view of the Manhattan skyline.
Visit the nostalgic Jane's Carousel, which is over 100 years old, the Time Out Food Market and the beautiful River Café, which is so romantic and fantastically planted directly under the Brooklyn Bridge. By the way, it's most beautiful after dark, when the lights are all twinkling.
For dessert, you can go directly opposite to the Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory. And if you walk across the bridge again, you must try the pizza at Grimaldi's!
To the left of the Dumbo, the coast continues and merges directly into Brooklyn Heights. Here you can stroll, admire the typical "brownstone" houses that have since been converted into chic flats and lofts, and above all enjoy the incredible view of the New York skyline.
The famous Brooklyn Bridge at night - doesn't it look great? 18th Museum of Modern Art (MOMA)
One museum that I really enjoyed and spent hours in is the Museum of Modern Art. It is also called MOMA for short. It houses one of the world's most important and influential collections of modern and contemporary art.
The MOMA is one of the most visited art museums in the world. Almost 3 million people pass through here every year to see the sections on architecture, design, drawings, paintings and sculptures. Of course, I was particularly interested in the photography section.
By the way, the museum also has a huge library with 300,000 books. Where can you find the Museum of Modern Art? It is located in Manhattan on 53rd Street. You will find it between Fifth and Sixth Avenue.
Like many other museums, the MOMA is a great attraction to visit even if it's raining.
All info:
Address:
11 W 53rd St (Google Maps)
Opening hours:
10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily, Saturday until 7 p.m.
Info:
Monday morning open for members only
19 SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
A great attraction in New York that you should definitely visit is SUMMIT One Vanderbilt.
One Vanderbilt is a gigantic skyscraper next to Grand Central Station with 93 floors that opened in 2020. Directly above the 73rd floor is SUMMIT, a glass viewing platform at a height of almost 370 metres.
You can expect a magnificent view of New York, interactive art exhibitions, food and drinks, and unique photo opportunities. Included are, among other things, two glass boxes that rise above the façade and offer a view of the urban jungle streets below - very similar to the Skydeck in Chicago!
But it's not just the view from the top that is spectacular: the drive up is also something to behold. With the SUMMIT Ascent ticket, you can ride up in one of the two lifts, which are also made entirely of glass and are attached to the outside of the building.
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is particularly spectacular in the evening. To enjoy the sunset from the observation deck, you need special evening tickets, which are about 10 dollars more expensive than the normal day tickets.
All info:
Address:
45 E 42nd St(Google Maps)
Opening hours:
9am to midnight daily (last admission 10:30pm), closed Tuesday.
Info:
SUMMIT Ultimate ticket from $73 includes a cocktail in addition to the lift and viewing platform
20th Edge 
The city's second new viewing platform and also our last sight is Edge.
The building's special feature is its triangular spire, which juts out of the building at a dizzying height. You may have seen it on Instagram - after all, it's considered the top photo spot in the city. But you can also take really unique pictures of the New York skyline from here, because Edge is the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere!
The tourist attraction is located on the 100th floor of a skyscraper, which in turn is located in Hudson Yards. This district is located in western Manhattan directly on the Hudson RiverIncidentally, this part of the city is also home to The Vessel, a spectacular structure with several levels and staircases that should also become a popular vantage point. Unfortunately, this sight is closed until further notice due to several suicide attempts and can only be admired from the outside. If you too are affected by suicidal thoughts, you can find help offers from the German Society for Suicide Prevention.
The Edge viewing platform is well secured by its high glass walls. However, they are slanted outwards so that you can practically lean over the city. If that's not enough adrenaline for you, you can let off steam on the City Climb. You are secured with a harness and can walk along the façade of the skyscraper at a height of 365 metres. However, the whole thing costs 185 dollars.
By the way, there is also a special ticket for Edge for the sunset, which costs 10 dollars more than the standard admission.
All info:
Address:
30 Hudson Yards(Google Maps)
Opening hours:
10am to 10pm daily
Info:
Admission includes a free digital photo on the observation deck
Tips for the pre-Christmas period in New York
If you have the pleasure of visiting New York for Halloween , you can expect to see spookily decorated houses (you'll see a lot of them in Soho, Chelsea or the streets of North-West Brooklyn, by the way) and you should definitely visit the parade! On 6th Avenue between Spring Street and 16th Street, you'll encounter over 50,000 spooky characters on decorated floats or running in the crowd. By the way, anyone wearing a costume can join in!
Halloween in New York. The gardens are decorated
No sooner are Halloween and Thanksgiving over (there's a parade on that day, too, of course) than the next big event that New Yorkers celebrate in a really elaborate way is upon us: Christmas. First of all, the Christmas market in Bryant Park, Winter Village opens its doors at the end of October.
It is followed by the Christmas markets at Union Square, Columbus Circle, Grand Central Terminal and Oculus near the World Trade Center. Of course, in addition to these larger ones, there are various smaller Christmas markets, and even a guided Christmas market tour is offered.
When walking through the city, however, the most striking thing is the partly pompous, partly loving, but mostly glittering and twinkling decorations. The most splendid shop window decorations can of course be found along 5th Avenue. So it's definitely worth doing a bit of window shopping here and being impressed by the creative ideas of the big designer and fashion houses.
The classic, which attracts huge numbers of visitors to the city in the run-up to Christmas, is of course the huge Christmas tree in front of Rockefeller Center. What else do you know from films when you think of Christmas and America? The festively and magnificently decorated houses of the inhabitants, of course.
The neighbourhood in New York where you will find the most in this sense is Dyker Heights. There's even a bus tour so you can admire the twinkling lights in the warm instead of on foot.
Tips for getting to New York
The best thing about New York you can discover before you actually go is the great airfares. At any time of the year (but especially in spring and autumn, prices rise a little in the run-up to Christmas) you can get great bargains, especially if you don't insist on a direct flight, but find a change or two OK.
If possible, try not to make a stopover within the USA, as you will have to collect your checked-in luggage and check it in again. In addition, you have to go through the whole naturalisation process during the stopover, which takes time. In this case, allow enough time between your arrival and your onward flight.
This applies to any destination within the USA: as soon as you set foot on American soil for the first time, you have to naturalise and re-check in your luggage. Low-cost flights are offered mainly by American airlines from almost all airports in Germany.
My tip for long-haul flights: I always pack a set of underwear and a fresh shirt for the rather long flight, because you never know where your suitcase will get stuck when you change planes. I also pack lip balm, a toothbrush set and thick socks (which I wear instead of my shoes right after take-off).
Shopping hack: What I've learned from my stays in America: never fill up your suitcase and take an empty hand luggage suitcase, because experience shows that I always really hit the ground running when I go shopping.
Where to stay in New York?
It gets more difficult when looking for a hotel, because if you want to stay in a fairly central location, you usually have to dig a little deeper into your pockets. However, the POD Hotels or Yotel are inexpensive, nice and still centrally located. For example, the Yotel in New York Times Square.
If you want to keep your options open and like to book at the last minute, you can check out the app Hotel Tonight . Here you can find cheap hotel offers and daily deals about a week before arrival, which can save you a lot. The longer you wait, the better, but of course there is a bit of a thrill.
For a really creative stay, The Pop Art Penthouse . Directly on Lexington Avenue is an excellent address. The Maxwell New York City . Of course it's very expensive, but maybe you'd like to treat yourself to a night there. Otherwise, the rooftop bar there is awesome.
Also very central is the Hampton Inn Manhattan-35th St-Empire State Bldg It's just a few steps away from Madison Square Garden and 5th Avenue. So it's perfect for Christmas shopping. I can also recommend the Wyndham Midtown 45 . It's right in the heart of New York on 3rd Avenue and 45th East.
Otherwise, you could also look for a hotel in Brooklyn, because Brooklyn itself is already beautiful and there is a lot to discover, and you can get to Manhattan very quickly by train.
Is the New York Pass worth it?
The New York Pass offers you free admission without queuing to more than 100 tourist attractions for up to 10 days. You save 45 per cent on the normal admission price to some of the most famous sights.
The New York Pass is worthwhile for you if you like to do a lot and want to see the most important sights .
It costs 142 dollars and can also be used on your mobile phone. You also get a free 200-page digital travel guide. There are also discounts at 25 top restaurants, shops and Broadway shows.
I've read in the reviews that the time savings at the queues don't always work. But still, you save yourself a lot. Let me show you a little math:
Rockefeller Center | from 40 dollars |
One World Trade Center | from 38 dollars |
Statue of Liberty (ferry, museum, park, access to the Statue of Liberty) | from 30 Dollars |
Empire State Building | from 44 dollars |
American Museum of Natural History | from 28 dollars |
Admission to MOMA | from 25 dollars |
from 205 dollars |
Getting around, best metro ticket and insider tips
It's best to get a MetroCard for the New York underground right from the start, because it's the fastest and cheapest means of transport in New York.
Instead of taxis, you can use the apps from Uber or Lyft. However, we only used them for the transfer from the airport to our accommodation, because navigating the subway network was too uncertain for us on our first visit.
However, you understand the route network pretty quickly, although it is very large, and in the end we also made it to the airport by train. It's best to get a digital or physical map or a city map to familiarise yourself with the metro network. Depending on how much you want to ride, it's either worth getting an Unlimited Ride MetroCard, which is valid for 7 days, or paying per ride.
If you have a SIM card or data volume for the USA, you can use the myMTA app to navigate, offline the app NYC Subway Map (Offline) also served us very well. In the meantime, there is also free Wi-Fi at some Subway stations. Very practical if you want to quickly check something on the go even without data volume.
Top tip: With the MetroCard, you can also use the Rosevelt Island Tram, a monorail that runs from the corner of 2nd Avenue and East 60th Street to Rosevelt Island. It offers one of the best views of New York from a public transport system.
Hop-on Hop-off Buses in New York
Good for getting a first impression of the most important points in the city are of course the hop-on-hop-off buses with their different routes. If you want to rest for a while, sit a little longer and pick out stops and sights on the way that you want to take a closer look at later.
Activities in New York
What else can you do in New York? Well, I've already mentioned ice skating in winter . I'd like to tell you what other activities there are:
Take a sailboat ride on the Hudson River. From the World Financial Center, we take a small sailboat towards the Statue of Liberty. We let the wind blow in our faces and enjoy the fantastic weather and the indescribable view of Manhattan.
Visit more museums, such as the Intrepid Sea, Air, & Space Museum. In the harbour lies a disused aircraft carrier that has been converted into a museum. Technology fans will get their money's worth. On the flight deck of the floating steel colossus and in its belly, numerous planes, helicopters, the Concorde and even a space hat are on display.
A tour with The Beast. A toxic green powerboat that cruises at 45 miles per hour across the Hudson, past the imposing skyline and the Statue of Liberty. You shouldn't be afraid of the water. The crew makes sure that no one leaves the boat dry. It is an experience, especially for young people, that is probably only available in New York.
A detour to the East River. Above us, at a lofty height, the cars push their way along Franklin D. Roosevelt East River Drive. Roosevelt East River Drive. It's a different world here under the motorway-like parkway. Away from the tourist hustle and bustle, New York shows its dull side.
A tour through Little Italy. Most of the Italians have moved away by now, the restaurants probably more show. Which doesn't mean that the food isn't damn tasty.
Why don't you stop by Greenwich Village? Time seems to have stood still here. The hustle and bustle of the city is forgotten. Small, tree-lined alleys and countless bars, restaurants and shops invite you to stroll. The small neighbourhood is known for its art scene and, together with Chelsea, also forms the focus of the gay and lesbian district. Greenwich is no less popular with stars and starlets. Famous residents include Uma Thurman and Liv Taylor.
Eating and drinking in New York
What can't be missing on a city break? That's right, the right food.
One thing first: we hardly ever went to restaurants, but often enjoyed the burger chains and food markets. Our highlights here were the Chelsea Market and the Smorgasburg Food Market as an open-air market with several locations.
Yummy Tacos at the Chelsea Market
Ippudo offers delicious ramen if you've had enough of burgers and typical American diners. At Black Tap you simply have to try one of the incredibly huge and calorie-rich milkshakes, which are "garnished" with all kinds of sprinkles and sometimes with whole pieces of cake.
We quickly realised that the discussion about the best burgers is a question of faith. We found the burgers at Shake Shack, Five Guys (be sure to order the Cajun Fries!), TGIF and Johnny Rockets (in the Jersey Gardens mall) super tasty.
The best rooftop bars in New York
If you're in New York, you should also try one of the many rooftop bars! Even in winter, some of them are open or located indoors.
For example, the 230 FIFTH Rooftop Bar with a view of the Empire State Building is great. Not only do they have radiant heaters and well-mixed cocktails, but also free bathrobes to keep you warm when it's chilly outside.
We also really liked the Jimmy, where both the view and the drinks were great. In summer you can swim in the small pool on the terrace, and in winter you can sit inside and look out over Manhattan through the large floor-to-ceiling windows.
Perfect for spring to late autumn (we were here at the end of October) is the bar Lemon's in the Wythe Hotel (check prices here*) in Williamsburg or the bar directly opposite in The Williamsburg Hotel (check prices here*). It was built into a large water storage tank, which can often be spotted on the roofs of New York skyscrapers.
The converted barrel-shaped reservoir has been fitted with large, modern windows and looks directly onto the rooftop pool area below. Both hotels are great examples of how old brick factory buildings have been stylishly converted and renovated.
Another example with an incredible rooftop terrace is the 1 Hotel (check rates here*), also in Brooklyn, right on Brooklyn Heights. Here you can also relax in a pool and enjoy a spectacular view of Manhattan and the Brooklyn Bridge.
And if you're looking for a well-established hotel option, consider staying at the Belvedere Hotel New York, known for its excellent service and prime location.
Shopping in New York
Besides all the beautiful sights you have to see in New York, the city also attracts bargain hunters and shopping queens. Almost everywhere you go, you will be lured into the shops and tempted to strike. Besides the luxury shops on 5th Avenue(Google Maps), there are a few tips that make shopping in New York so great.
One of our favourite shops is "The Market NYC". Here you will find several stalls in one hall with "unique", partly extraordinary things. How unique they really remain to be seen, but you always get to see funny, bizarre but also pretty things.
Along Broadway (Google Maps) you'll find well-known shops, but it's usually worth stopping by, especially for American brands, because the prices here are much lower than in Germany or Europe.
What makes New York particularly exciting as far as shopping is concerned are the many sample sales, i.e. small, very temporary sales of big (designer) brands that open almost every day in a hidden place. You might stumble into one of these sales here and there, but of course you're better off finding out in advance online about upcoming sales. There are several sites online that publish "Sample Sales Calendars" where you can get an overview.
If you want to find even more bargains, take 1 day and go to one of the outlets in the area, for example Jersey Gardens or Woodbury. There are buses to both outlets at different times, and both times we got there and back without any complications. In Woodbury(Google Maps), the density of stores is even greater. The outlet is arranged like a big American village.
If you want to shop regardless of the weather, you'd better go to the mall in Jersey Gardens. It's called The Outlet Collection(Google Maps).
I hope I've whetted your appetite for a trip to New York . The city is definitely a highlight and will really impress you. Once you've enjoyed New York, you'll come back again and again - be it for a weekend trip, a short holiday or a longer stay!