▷ The Perfect 4 Day Itinerary for NYC 2024 • Discover the city without stress! (2024)

It can be overwhelming trying to create a 4-day itinerary in NYC. If you’re wondering if and how you can do New York in 4 days, you’ll find the answer here!I’ll show you how to spend 4 perfect days in New York City with my experience of more than 20 visits to my favorite city. And that without stress, with restaurant tips and the most important sights and most interesting neighborhoods.

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So, I have created the following 4 Day Itinerary NYC to make it easier for you. Feel free to use it as is or customize as you’d like – either way, we hope it helps!

This is the best 4 day itinerary for New York City:

Table of Contents

4 Day Itinerary NYCDay 1: Theatre District & Midtown

New York City’s Theatre District is the neighborhood where most Broadway theatres are found in Midtown West. West 54th Street bounds this area to the north, West 40th Street to the south, Eighth Ave to the west, and Sixth Avenue to the east.

Here you’ll find many theaters, hotels, restaurants, and other entertainment venues, as well as Times Square. There’s really no better part of the city to begin your 4-day trip, so let’s take a look a look at what to do in NYC’s Theatre District and Midtown on your first day:

  1. 01

    Times Square

    Other Attraction inTheatre District

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    As we mentioned, this is the New York City neighborhood where Times Square is located. And even if you’ve never been to NYC, you should already know this is a bustling place. The best part is that there are plenty of things to see and do regardless of whether you go to Times Square during the day or night.

    If you’re looking for activities to do in Times Square, check out Madame Tussauds and National Geographic’s Ocean Odyssey. Or you can simply people-watch or meet someone dressed up as your favorite character – just don’t forget that if you take photos of these characters or interact with them, they’ll expect to be paid.

    When it comes time to eat in Times Square, try the best tacos in America at Los Tacos No. 1., a slice of authentic NY pizza at Patzeria’s, or choose from hundreds of options at the 24-hour Times Square Diner. If you want something more upscale, head on over to Aureole, Carmine’s, or the Hunt & Fish Club.

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  2. 02

    BIG BUS: Get a quick overview of Manhattan

    Bus Tour inMidtown Manhattan

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    NYC is home to many hop-on, hop-off bus tours offered by Big Bus. So, once it’s time to leave Times Square and move on, get on one of these buses and ride to the next location. Thanks to onboard commentary, this is a great way to see and get to know the area. Not to mention, it’s a nice reprieve if you’re not used to walking so many miles per day.

  3. 03

    Bryant Park

    Park inMidtown Manhattan

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    For the next stop on day 1, we have Bryant Park. It’s a charming little gem found right behind the New York Public Library. Bryant Park makes you think you’ve left NYC and entered Paris, and it makes a wonderful place to read a book, enjoy a picnic, or just rest your feet for a few minutes.

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  4. 04

    Grand Central Terminal

    Other Attraction inMidtown Manhattan

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    Grand Central Terminal is just as beautiful and busy as you would expect. Sure, you’ve probably seen it featured in countless shows and movies over the years, but seeing it is believing, as the television does not capture the stunning beauty of the building’s turquoise ceiling or the sheer number of people who travel through here daily.

    Anytime you’re near Grand Central, be sure to stop at Sarge’s Delicatessen & Diner for an authentic, inexpensive breakfast or brunch. If you’re in a hurry, grab a quick bite at Bagel Express; their food is simple, tasty, and affordable.

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  5. 05

    One Vanderbilt The Summit

    Building inMidtown Manhattan

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    Summit One Vanderbilt is NYC’s newest attraction that recently opened in October 2021. The building altered the look of the city’s skyline, which provides guests with a whole new experience.

    Summit One features a deck, mirrored rooms, and the world’s tallest rack-and-pinion elevator system that features cars that are 90 square feet each, which makes them the world’s largest glass floor elevators!

    There are several different packages to choose from, and the one you choose decides how much of the experience you get to enjoy. For example, the Summit Experience allows you access to all 4 floors, and you can step into glass skyboxes that sit 1,000 feet over Midtown below.

    Alternatively, you can choose the Summit Ascent package, which includes access to the entire experience and the glass elevators at their highest point. This is a must-see attraction for anyone looking for the best views of NYC and should definitely be a part of your first day.

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  6. 06

    5th Avenue

    Other Shopping inMidtown Manhattan

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    This is perhaps the most famous and expensive street in all of New York City – 5th Avenue or as it’s commonly called “Millionaire’s Row.” This road stretches the entire length of Manhattan both north and south.

    Regardless of whether you buy anything or not, 5th Avenue should be on your itinerary. There’s something about marveling at the most expensive retail space in the world, and it almost makes you feel as if you’re on Ginza in Tokyo or Champs-Elysees in Paris.

    The best shopping areas are found closest to Central Park, where you’ll find stores such as Cartier and Armani. You’ll also find the famous NYC Apple store, where they offer laptops and free internet access.

    Another great thing about exploring 5th Avenue is that you’ll find the Empire State Building, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and many museums.

  7. 07

    Empire State Building

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    Speaking of the Empire State Building, this is the next stop on your first-ever trip to NYC. Completed in 1931 as the world’s tallest building, this 102-story skyscraper symbolizes the resilience and hope of NYC and its people. Today, the building is used primarily for office space, but it is also home to two observation decks and many unique exhibits.

    You have a few options for how you can enjoy this iconic building. First, you can travel to the main observation deck at the 86th Floor Observatory. This is the city’s most famed open-air observatory, where you’ll enjoy 360-degree views of the city.

    For those who want to see even better breathtaking views, check out the 102nd Floor Observatory, where you’ll find floor-to-ceiling views that can extend up to 80 miles on clear days. Regardless of whether you go inside, it’s still a legendary building to see in person.

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The Perfect Itinerary For Your New York Trip

This itinerary contains over 50 spots and highlights of the city, including a map that shows you the best way to travel each day, taking you to or past the many big attractions. In addition, we‘ve added our favorite places, from great breakfast spots to start your day right to small bars and restaurants and hidden insider spots.

What awaits you here now is the perfect New York week, because this is what my itinerary would look like if I were visiting the Big Apple for the first or second time right now!

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4 Day Itinerary NYCDay 2: Hudson Yards, Chelsea, Meatpacking District

On day 2 of this 4 Day Itinerary NYC, you’ll explore the Meatpacking District, Chelsea, and Hudson Yards, which are all located in Midtown Manhattan. At one time, this was Manhattan’s hub of industry, but in recent times it has become one of the most cultivated cultural neighborhoods in NYC.

Chelsea is on downtown Manhattan’s west side and is an expensive area with many things to do, such as historical sights, off-Broadway theatre, dining, and more. This area also encompasses the ultra-chic Meatpacking District, where you’ll find posh nightlife, fine dining, and luxury shopping.

Chelsea is adored by art fans and is well-known for its concentration of galleries. Tourists love these neighborhoods because it’s very walkable and still an up-and-coming section of New York City. Now, let’s take a look at what your second day in NYC has in store for you!

  1. 01

    Circle Line - Best of NYC Cruise

    Cruise inMidtown Manhattan

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    The best way to start your second day in New York City is by hopping aboard the Best of NYC Cruise offered by Circle Line. This is the only sightseeing cruise that goes completely around Manhattan, which means you get to see all of NYC’s most iconic landmarks from the comfort of a boat in under three hours!

    Landmarks you can expect to see along this cruise are the Statue of Liberty, High Line, Ellis Island, Chrysler Building, Empire State Building, Gracie Mansion, Yankee Stadium, and much more. And the best part is that award-winning tour guides narrate each Best of NYC Cruises, so you’ll learn every significant detail during the trip.

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  2. 02

    Explore Hudson Yards

    Mall inHudson Yards

    ▷ The Perfect 4 Day Itinerary for NYC 2024 • Discover the city without stress! (10)

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    Hudson Yards is one of the most exciting places to visit in New York City, especially if you only have 4 days on the itinerary. It’s home to two of the most photographable places in NYC, so you’ll want to buy tickets for both the Vessel and Edge.

    The Vessel is a honeycomb-shaped building that features 154 floors and sits in the center of Hudson Yards. Climb to the top and take in the views of the Hudson River, or take advantage of all the photo opportunities on the ground. You should know that if you plan to climb this structure, you have to buy tickets, and it’s definitely worth buying them online. Also, they only allow groups of two up at a time (one additional information: right now the Vessel is closed).

    Bonus Tip: If you visit NYC around the holidays, Hudson Yards puts on a fantastic light display that you shouldn’t miss!

  3. 03

    The Edge Observation Deck

    Building inHudson Yards

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    As you’re walking north in Hudson Yards, you’ll notice an eye-catching building that’s made of glass and has a triangular-shaped platform coming from the top. If you take our advice and buy tickets to this attraction, you’ll be standing on that triangle very soon.

    As you walk inside of Hudson Yards’ central shopping mall, it may remind you of Singapore or Dubai with the upmarket feel and pristine finish. Keep moving to the fourth floor, as this is where you’ll find the entrance for Edge. Outside of the attraction, many neat exhibits teach visitors about renewable energy and how waste and air filtration work inside the building.

    The elevator ride that carries you from the fourth floor to the 100th is really exhilarating and a favorite of many people, as it’s like no other experience. Upon reaching the top of Edge, you are met with breathtaking views that are even better during sunset.

    After you finish here, be sure to walk up to 34th Street, past Penn Station, and see the famous NYC Macy’s store! At this point of day two, you may be ready for a meal. If so, check out places such as the Backyard Cafe at Hudson Yards, Wild Ink, Whitmans, The Tavern, or one of many eateries at the Chelsea Market.

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  4. 04

    High Line

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    After you’ve had a bite to eat, head on over to the High Line, this is a fan favorite and offers some of the most beautiful views of the local area. Essentially, the High Line is an abandoned railroad track that’s been turned into an urban walkway and park. There are few other places in the world where you can experience such a mixed and improbable use of space – who builds a garden in the sky?

    The High Line is an excellent place to take a stroll and see nature. The entire hike is about a mile and a half, but you don’t have to walk the entire way; just be sure to spend time enjoying the art and views.

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  5. 05

    Meatpacking District

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    NYC’s Meatpacking District is a trendy commercial area located on the far west side between the West Village and Chelsea. In this section of NYC, you’ll find luxury designer clothing stores, a portion of the High Line, the Whitney Museum of American Art, and more!

    The cobblestone streets are lined with hip clubs and restaurants that have recently taken over the enormous spaces that once used to be home to none other than meat packaging facilities. So, take advantage of places such as Plunge Rooftop Bar and Lounge, Brass Monkey NYC, and the Famous Sky Bridge.

  6. 06

    Pier 54 - Little Island

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    Little Island is one of NYC’s newest attractions and is very special, as it’s a park built in the Hudson River atop 132 gorgeous tulip-shaped concrete stilts. It’s located at Pier 54 in Hudson River Park and is easily accessible via the High Line.

    This is a great stop for your second day in New York City because it’s designed with walking paths, gentle trees, and over 35 different species of trees, so it’s a true oasis in the middle of a concrete jungle. The highlight of Little Island Park is the amphitheater built next to the water, and there are also art exhibits and event spaces.

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  7. 07

    Visit a Broadway Shows

    Broadway Show inTheatre District

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    As your second day comes to an end, grab some dinner at Dos Caminos, Catch NYC, RH Rooftop Restaurant, or Serafina Meatpacking and then make your way to take in a Broadway show. Even if this isn’t usually your scene, you are in New York City and the home of Broadway, so don’t miss out.

    It is worth mentioning that Broadway Shows can be expensive, but the experience is unforgettable. So, plan for this and try to book tickets in advance as they may be cheaper. Some popular shows right now include Hamilton, Wicked, Lion King, and more.

    Recommended: These are the best broadway shows in NYC

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4 Day Itinerary NYCDay 3: Financial District, DUMBO in Brooklyn

Welcome to your third day in NYC! Today you’ll experience New York City’s Financial District and DUMBO/Brooklyn. The city’s bustling financial heart is home to many glittering skyscrapers and Wall Street. During the workweek and evenings, the sidewalks are busy with young professionals working and filling the bars and restaurants of Stone Street and South Street Seaport.

Once you get into DUMBO/Brooklyn, you’ll be surrounded by warehouses that have been converted into high-end restaurants, independent boutiques, and trendy cafes. On the north end, you’ll find Jane’s Carousel and on the waterfront is a former tobacco factory converted into a gallery and performance scene.

Days 1 and 2 were busy, but day 3 has even more in store for you; be sure to drink lots of coffee in the morning and get started early! It’s probably best to grab a quick bite to eat, such as a bagel or donuts. So, let’s look at day 3 of our 4 Day Itinerary NYC:

  1. 01

    Battery Park

    Park inLower Manhattan

    ▷ The Perfect 4 Day Itinerary for NYC 2024 • Discover the city without stress! (16)

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    Many people know this park at the southernmost tip of Manhattan as a landing and/or departure point of the Staten Island Ferry (a free crossing enables a sensational view to the skyline). Battery Park is one of the oldest public parks in New York and is of historical importance for New York: the first Dutch settlers are said to have arrived here when they founded New Amsterdam.

  2. 02

    Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island (Ferry & Stop)

    Cruise inThe Battery

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    No trip to NYC is complete without stopping at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, and this is especially true if it’s your first time visiting the city. However, as you would imagine, this is a top-rated destination, so it can take a good chunk of your day if you don’t plan properly. For this reason, we strongly recommend that you take the first ferry over to the island in the morning. Not only will this shorten the time it takes to visit Lady Liberty, but you’ll be on Liberty Island with just one group of people. Also, keep in mind that buying a ticket to the attraction is the only way you’re allowed to set foot on Liberty Island.

    After you’ve seen everything there is to see on Liberty Island, hop back on the ferry. It stops on Ellis Island before making its way back to Manhattan. To get the most from this experience, be sure to get off the ferry and check out the National Museum of Immigration on Ellis Island. Yet, only do this if you are a quick explorer or very interested because there is a lot of ground to cover today!

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  3. 03

    One World Observatory

    Building inFinancial District

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    NYC has a million things to experience, but there’s only one way to see all of them at once. Your journey begins as you hop aboard a SkyPod in One World Trade Center, which travels 102 floors in just 47 seconds until you are transported to the top of the Western Hemisphere’s tallest building.

    After arriving 102 stories high, you find yourself face-to-face with one of the world’s most iconic skylines. Even if you’ve seen the city millions of times, you’ve never seen it quite like this! The Observatory consists of three massive levels where you’ll discover lots of surprises along the way.

    If you are hungry, be sure to stop by the cafe for a delicious bite to eat. Then step onto the Sky Portal and wander high above the crowds below. Finally, go on an interactive tour of NYC with the assistance of a Skyline Concierge who can answer questions and inform you about the city’s long and storied history. Before you leave, don’t forget to stop by One Mix Bar for a glass of Prosecco and one last look at the Earth’s bend before setting off to your next attraction.

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  4. 04

    9/11 Memorial and Museum

    Museum inFinancial District

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    Though most of our 4 Day Itinerary NYC focuses on the fun and lively side of the city, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum remind us that some of the city’s most crucial parts of history are very dark.

    The Twin Towers used to stand in NYC’s Financial District on Manhattan’s southern tip, but today you’ll find the 9/11 Memorial in their place. The memorial is evocative and free to see, but if you feel up to it (as this is a very powerful and emotional experience), you should consider visiting the museum as well. Yet, regardless of whether you go into the museum or not, the 9/11 Memorial should be part of your 4 day NYC trip.

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  5. 05

    Wall Street

    Other Attraction inFinancial District

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    Wall Street covers eight city blocks in the Financial District of Lower Manhattan. It runs between the East River in the east to Broadway in the west over to South Street and is the second most famous street besides Broadway.

    Exploring this area can be tricky, but it is a lot of fun. Begin by finding the New York Stock Exchange at the corner of Broadway and Wall Street. Though you can no longer go inside, seeing the building is something special itself. Also, be sure to take advantage of the photo op with the famed charging bull statue!

    Other activities to partake in this area include Battery Park, Trinity Church, Federal Hall, and Stone Street. If you’re hungry when on Wall Street, try out places such as Neapolitan Express, SkyCafe, or one of the many food trucks you’ll find in the area.

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  6. 06

    South Street Seaport

    Building inFinancial District

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    As you move south along Wall Street, keep an eye out for South Street Seaport. This section of the neighborhood is located right on the edge of the Financial District and is a lively part of town that’s spent the last several years rebuilding after Hurricane Sandy.

    When you visit the seaport, you can enjoy live music, learn the local history, or grab some food at the Fulton farmer’s market. This area is only a short, 15-minute walk from the stock exchange and makes for the best excuse to rest your feet near the water.

  7. 07

    Brooklyn Bridge

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    After you’ve seen everything in the Financial District, it’s time to head over the famed Brooklyn Bridge. Of course, you can take a taxi or rideshare across the bridge to make the trip shorter, but if you feel up to it, you can also walk across. The bridge is just over one mile long, and you can even take a guided tour!

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  8. 08

    DUMBO & Brooklyn Heights

    Districts inDumbo

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    After crossing the Brooklyn Bridge, you’ll find that Brooklyn is home to some of NYC’s most exciting neighborhoods and sites. One that’s gained a lot of attention and adoration is DUMBO, which could also be partly due to its catchy name.

    This waterfront neighborhood has a fascinating and rich history and many activities for visitors to enjoy. Not only is DUMBO a premier art district, but there are also lots of great places to eat, such as Grimaldi’s Pizza, The River Cafe, Jacques Torres chocolate factory, Butler Bakery, and more. Are you looking for shopping? Be sure to check out the newly renovated Empire Stores on Water Street.

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  9. 09

    Circle Line - Harbor Lights Night Cruise

    Cruise inMidtown Manhattan

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    Finish out your third day in New York City with the Harbor Lights Cruise. Hop aboard one of Circle Line’s state-of-the-art boats and take in the views of NYC twinkling at night. This unforgettable experience lasts about two hours, and you’ll see landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, and more.

    Just make sure your camera is ready because you’ll be mere yards away from some of the best photos of your life. And don’t worry; you won’t miss a thing because there will be an award-winning tour guide narrating the City’s story. So, sit back, relax, and take some amazing photos while creating memories that will last forever.

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4 Day Itinerary NYCDay 4: Upper West Side, Midtown, SoHo, Little Italy

Finally, for day 4 of our 4 Day Itinerary NYC, you’ll spend the last day of your trip touring the Upper West Side, Midtown, SoHo, and Little Italy. And just when you thought your vacation wouldn’t get any better, we’re rounding the trip off with some laid-back activities that will help you wind down from the past several exciting days.

Let’s see what these areas of NYC have in store for you on day number four:

  1. 01

    Central Park

    Park inMidtown Manhattan

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    You probably thought we forgot about Central Park, but you know the saying – saving the best for last! Central Park is a masterpiece that Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux created. Though the park has gone through extensive restorations over time, the initial purpose of acting as an open-air oasis amid a large, metropolitan city has always stayed the same.

    This national landmark is a must-visit attraction regardless of what season you visit or why you’re visiting. This park has something for folks of all ages, from horse and carriage rides and bike rentals to the Central Park Zoo and activities such as ice skating and Strawberry Fields.

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  2. 02

    American Museum of Natural History

    Museum inUpper West Side

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    After finishing up at Central Park, you may want to stop at one of the many local restaurants such as the Loeb Boathouse, Tavern On The Green, or Maoz Vegetarian and make your way to the American Museum of Natural History.

    This museum is the world’s largest natural history museum, as it spans 4 city blocks and encompasses 25 interconnected buildings. Even if you’re not a fan of museums, this one is a must! It’s home to over 34 million specimens of animals, plants, fossils, human remains, rocks, minerals, meteorites, and human cultural artifacts. Though keep in mind that only a fraction of the museum’s artifacts are on show at any given time.

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  3. 03

    Visit the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) ...

    Museum inMidtown Manhattan

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    The next stop on our list is the MoMA, or Museum of Modern Art. This art museum is located in Midtown Manhattan on 53rd between Fifth and Sixth Avenues. MoMA plays a significant role in the development and collection of modern art. It’s often referred to as the world’s largest and most influential museum for modern art. And there’s no wonder considering that the MoMA features five floors of art. So, take as much time as you’d like to explore the exhibits and collections before moving on.

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  4. 04

    ... or the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met), or both!

    Museum inUpper East Side

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    We hope you’re not tired of seeing beautiful art because your next stop is the Met. New York City’s Metropolitan Museum of Art is the United States’ largest art museum that controls a permanent collection of over two million works divided into 17 different departments.

    Seeing over two million pieces of art could take days by itself. So, it’s highly recommended that you plan for this part of your trip and already know what you want to see. At the very least, be sure to find Van Gogh, Hatshepsut Seated, the Temple of Dendur, and the Greek and Roman Statue Court.

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  5. 05

    Discover the neighborhoods of SoHo, The Village and Little Italy

    Walking Tour inHudson Square

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    SoHo is an upscale residential and high-end shopping area where you’ll enjoy some of NYC’s best people-watching. Stroll up and down the area’s cobblestoned streets, admiring the rows of shops and houses. If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, be sure to stop by the Dominique Ansel Bakery and order one of the legendary Cronuts.

    If you’re in the mood to keep walking, you can continue on to West Village or Greenwich Village. If not, find a posh SoHo restaurant and enjoy some food. Some of the best places to eat in Soho include Antique Garage, Blue Ribbon Brasserie, and Dig.

    On day 4 of our 4 Day Itinerary NYC, your final stop is Little Italy. The best part is that if you’re not in the mood for trendy SoHo food, Little Italy is the quintessential dining spot! You’ll find local favorites such as Lombardi’s Pizza, Onieal’s, and Angelo’s of Mulberry Street.

    Yet, Little Italy is so much more than just an excellent place to eat. This area is also home to many historic landmarks, street art, gorgeous architecture, mafia locations, TV and movie locations, and the perfect place to find upscale consignment shops!

▷ The Perfect 4 Day Itinerary for NYC 2024 • Discover the city without stress! (30)

4 Days NYC Itinerary

Planning for your first trip to Manhattan can be overwhelming yet exciting. Relieve some of your stress and refer to our 4 Day Itinerary NYC and create the trip of a lifetime!

Just don’t forget to invest in the New York Pass for 4 Days and pack comfortable shoes!

Helpful Tips for VisitingNYC in 4 Days

If it’s your first time visiting NYC, then you may not know some insider secrets that will save you time and money! So, we thought we’d share a few of our own:

▷ The Perfect 4 Day Itinerary for NYC 2024 • Discover the city without stress! (31)

Invest in the New York Pass for 4 Days

▷ The Perfect 4 Day Itinerary for NYC 2024 • Discover the city without stress! (32)Our top budget tip for visitors is to invest in the New York Pass for 4 days. If you plan to visit the most iconic places such as Top of the Rock, 9/11 Memorial & Museum, MOMA, and more, then you can use this sightseeing pass to save 44% off these attractions.

And just as you’d expect, most of the popular tourist attractions in NYC charge an entry fee, and when you’re paying for yourself and other family members or friends, those costs will add up quickly. However, when you have the New York Pass, it provides you with access to these places, and it’s far cheaper than buying tickets at the door.

Get New York Pass now

or check out our ultimate New York Pass Comparison.

FAQ

Are 4 days in New York City enough?

I think 4 days for New York is great, because you have more time than if you only visit the Big Apple for a weekend. Of course 5 days, 1 week or even 10 days are even better! In the 4 days NYC as in our itinerary you experience the most important neighborhoods and attractions of the city – and that quite relaxed!

Is $1000 enough for 4 days in New York?

Yes! Because if you know how, you can save a lot of money in NYC! First of all, check out the different sightseeing passes for New York. You can easily save 50% on admission to the best attractions in NYC.

In addition, I recommend my hotel finder for New York. It shows you the best hotels in NYC for every budget. They are proof that good hotels in New York don’t have to be expensive.Another budget tip are the food markets of NYC. Here you can eat very tasty and at relatively good prices. I love them!

What should I pack for 4 days in New York?

This is the most important tip that I have: Wear Comfortable Shoes! This probably goes without saying, but NYC is best explored on foot, and you will spend a great deal of time walking from one place to another. When you consider that the average New Yorker walks about 10 miles per day just during their daily lives, you’ll see that comfortable shoes are a must!

What else do you need? This depends a bit on your travel time: 2 shorts or long pants, 2-3 t-shirts and a sweater are sufficient for the warm months. In the colder months you should definitely have several warm sweaters and a jacket!

How much is a 4-day trip to NYC?

If you’re in New York for 4 days, the hotel and food will use up most of your travel budget.A 3 star hotel in Midtown Manhattan starts at $100 per night, a 4 star hotel is $150 and prices for a night in a 5 star hotel start at $300, so expect overnight costs of $300, $450 and $900 respectively for 3 nights.

For breakfast in the diner you can calculate with $15 per person and in the restaurants with $40 per person. Of course, it can quickly be more expensive.

Sightseeing costs: I can’t stress this enough: be sure to check out the various New York City sightseeing passes. It’s a simple and easy way to save 50% off the regular admission price.
For the New York Pass for 4 days you can visit as many attractions as you want. It costs you just $200!

Per Day

Costs for 4 days in NYC

Hotel

from $100 to $300 per Night

$300 to $900

Eat & Drink: Breakfast

$15 p.P.

$60 p.P.

Eat & Drink: Diner

$40 p.P.

$240 p.P.

Bars

$20 p.P.

$80 p.P.

Sightseeing

$50

$200

TOTAL

$880 - $1,480

How do you plan a 4 day trip?

What is important to me when planning a trip with 4 days in NYC, I have already implemented in the above itinerary. The attractions you see per day should be close to each other, so you don’t waste a lot of time by communing.

Furthermore, you should plan enough time where you just do nothing else but let New York City work its magic on you. This is best done in one of the many cafes or during a walk along the High Line or 5th Avenue.

▷ The Perfect 4 Day Itinerary for NYC 2024 • Discover the city without stress! (2024)

FAQs

Is it worth going to New York for 4 days? ›

However, four days in New York is enough to see all the top attractions and get a feel for the city. While you'll have your work cut out for you and will end up walking a good few miles, it's just enough time for you to take a bite out of the Big Apple and fall in love.

How much would a 4 day trip to New York cost? ›

In total, we spent $1,235 per person for 4 days including flights and hotel. If we exclude flights, each day costs about $190 per person – of which more than half goes to the hotel. Otherwise, daily expenses are really only $80 per person.

How much money to take to New York for 4 days? ›

So how much spending money do you need for four days in New York? Adding up the breakdown of this post, I would advise £560 per person including your accommodation (based on staying at the Hotel Penn) or £900 per person if you wanted to include your flight to New York.

How many days in NYC is enough? ›

The general consensus? You'll need at least a full three days and two nights to get a taste of everything our city has to offer. Three of the most popular NYC attractions are the Statue of Liberty, The Empire State Building, and Central Park.

Is $1000 enough for 4 days in New York? ›

Overall, this type of trip could cost you $1,000 for 4 days. So while a trip to New York City is still not cheap, you can save money depending on how much you are willing to budget for your trip and by finding ways to cut down on your spending.

How much does a trip cost to New York? ›

New York vacation information
Top vacation (Flight+Hotel)$538
Family vacation (Flight+Hotel)$473
Romantic vacation (Flight+Hotel)$595
Luxury vacation (Flight+Hotel)$650
Budget vacation (Flight+Hotel)$309

Is $100 a day enough for NYC? ›

If visitors are cautious about planning their travel, accommodations, transportation and itinerary, it is absolutely possible to visit New York City on a budget and still have a great time. Here are some tips on how to successfully do New York City on $100 a day.

How much money do you need in NYC? ›

On average, you need $1,238 monthly to live comfortably in New York, excluding rent. It isn't surprising that rent makes up for the largest part of your monthly budget, followed by groceries and leisure. Depending on your lifestyle, your living expenses in New York will vary.

How much is a meal in New York? ›

Lunch figure $10-15/person assuming sandwiches, pizza, salads or ethnic (Chinese, Thai, Indian etc.) Dinner figure $20-30person without drinks for casual or prix fixe meals. Add this up to $45/person/day WITHOUT drinks and I'm including sodas in that.

Is $300 dollars a day enough for New York? ›

Yes just for one. Mainly food, drink, a couple of museums/galleries and the odd taxi. Should be plenty. Food and drinks can be surprisingly inexpensive in New York depending on where you go.

How to pack for 4 days in New York? ›

Here's what to pack for New York in order to enjoy the city to its fullest.
  1. A Comfortable Day Pack.
  2. Reliable Walking Shoes.
  3. The 2 Indispensable Layers.
  4. A Good Old-Fashioned Paper Map.
  5. A (Non-Cell Phone) Camera.
  6. A Portable Charger.
  7. Pack By Not Packing.
  8. Don't Forget About Dressing Up.
Apr 18, 2024

Is $2000 enough for a week in New York? ›

Yes it's enough. Many people spend far less than that. Some people spend more. You will just have to be mindful of your expenses, especially at bars and restaurants.

Which month is best to visit New York? ›

The summer is the best season to visit New York City for travelers who enjoy the heat and want to avoid any chance of cold temperatures. With an average high between 80°F and 84°F June through August, temperatures are ideal to visit NYC's many museums, attractions and monuments.

How to prepare for a trip to New York? ›

10 Expert Travel Tips for New York You Need To Know
  1. Get Familiar With NYC's Transportation System Before You Visit. ...
  2. Book Your Stay Ahead of Time and at a Convenient Location. ...
  3. Take a Stroll Down Central Park. ...
  4. Visit the Empire State Building in Off-Peak Hours. ...
  5. Go to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck at Sunset.
Jan 10, 2024

Is 4 nights enough in New York? ›

4 nights in New York is never enough time, whatever time of year you decide to go. You can probably fit the most popular attractions into a tight schedule, but in the city that never sleeps, most of the popular Christmas-themed attractions are best visited in the evening.

Is 3 days too short for New York? ›

In just three days in NYC, you can immerse yourself in some of the most iconic sights and landmarks with The New York Pass®, all on one pass, all for one price. Not only that, but you'll enjoy savings of up to 50%, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.

What is the best amount of days to go to New York? ›

3 to 4 Days

Do all things mentioned in the one and two-day itineraries, and add on a few more attractions and top NYC museums. With these many days, you can devote several hours to visiting the Statue of Liberty and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum.

How many days do you need to visit York? ›

Four days is more than enough time to see everything that York has to offer. After all, it's not such a huge city. Many visitors prefer to spend two to four days here, so you'll be able to take in all of the historic old town, the food, the museums and landmarks, and the nightlife at your own pace.

Is 2 days enough to visit New York? ›

Sure, 2 days is not as great as 3 or 20 days, but this 2 day itinerary for NYC includes the iconic, must-see spots and will leave you looking forward to another visit to see even more of this great city. Gear up for a fun-filled tour of the Big Apple!

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