Published on December 14, 2023 · Written by Zack Fenech
New York City is the most iconic city in North America and one of the most visited cities in the world. It’s a place where every neighbourhood feels like a different city, every block has a story, and the energy is unlike anywhere else. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, NYC has a way of revealing something new every time. For more destinations in the country, check out our USA travel guide.
Getting to New York City
Use Skyscanner to find and compare the best flights to New York City. The city is served by three major airports: John F. Kennedy (JFK), LaGuardia (LGA), and Newark Liberty (EWR) in New Jersey. JFK and Newark are better connected to Manhattan by public transit. The AirTrain to JFK connects to the subway system; from Newark, NJ Transit runs into Penn Station. Taxis and rideshares are also widely available. From Toronto and other northeastern Canadian cities, Greyhound, FlixBus, and Megabus offer affordable overland options.
Getting Around New York City
The NYC subway is one of the most extensive public transportation systems in the world, running 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It’s the fastest and most cost-effective way to get around Manhattan and into Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx. Purchase an OMNY card (tap-to-pay) or use a contactless bank card directly. Cabs and Uber/Lyft are plentiful but expensive during peak hours and traffic.
Things to Do in New York City
- Central Park – 843 acres in the middle of Manhattan. Rent a bike, find a bench, and watch the world go by.
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art – One of the greatest art museums in the world. Allocate at least half a day.
- Brooklyn Bridge – Walk or cycle across for stunning views of Lower Manhattan and the East River.
- The High Line – An elevated park built on a former freight rail line through the West Side. Excellent food and art along the way.
- Times Square – Worth seeing once, ideally at night. Don’t linger too long – the real NYC is in the neighbourhoods around it.
- Brooklyn and Queens – Some of the best food, coffee, and culture in the city is across the river. Williamsburg, Astoria, Flushing, and Bushwick are all worth a visit.
Essential Things to Know
Currency: US Dollar (USD). Cards are accepted almost everywhere. Tipping is expected: 18 – 20% at restaurants, $1 – 2 per drink at bars, and rounding up for taxis.
Visas: Canadian citizens do not require a visa. Most other nationalities can enter under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) with an ESTA. Check the US government’s website for your specific passport requirements.
Safety: Be sure to get travel insurance before your trip. NYC is generally safe in tourist areas. Standard city precautions apply – keep bags secure, be alert on the subway, and avoid isolated areas late at night. Emergency services: 911.
Costs: New York is expensive. Budget at least $100 USD/day for food, transit, and activities if travelling economically. For the best deals on places to stay, book hotels online ahead of your visit.