New York City is one of the most visited places in the world, drawing travelers from all over the globe.

It is home to famous landmarks like Times Square and the Statue of Liberty, along with countless museums and excellent dining options. Whether you're visiting in the summer or winter, there are always exciting things to see and do in New York.

When you're preparing for your first trip, it's important to consider what interests you most.

Focusing on your top priorities will help you make the most of your time in the city, even if you can't experience everything. The following suggestions can help you start planning a memorable first visit to New York City.

Top things to do in New York

  • Explore Manhattan: Manhattan is the main area of New York and contains both well-known attractions and hidden gems. When you first arrive, you might want to put your map away and simply walk with the crowd. Follow the people, take turns wherever you like, and enjoy the tall buildings and busy streets. You could walk down Fifth Avenue or any street that catches your attention.

  • Visit Times Square: Times Square is in the heart of Manhattan and is one of the city's most recognized places. It is often considered the heart of New York and is an excellent starting point for your trip, especially in the evening when the lights and energy are at their peak.

  • Walk the Brooklyn Bridge: The Brooklyn Bridge is a famous landmark. It has tall stone towers and strong steel cables that connect Manhattan and Brooklyn. Walking across the bridge gives you great views of Lower Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty in the distance, and the Empire State Building.

  • Relax in Central Park: Spend a day in Central Park to experience the city from a different perspective. In winter, you can ice skate or take a horse-drawn carriage ride. In summer, there are festivals, and you can enjoy a picnic on the grass or take a boat ride from the Central Park Boathouse.

  • Visit the Empire State Building: going to the top of the Empire State Building is a must for first-time visitors. This famous skyscraper in the middle of the city offers incredible views. From the 86th-floor observation deck or even higher on the 102nd floor, you can see the city in a completely new way.

  • Explore the Metropolitan Museum of Art: The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the largest museums in the world. It has so many artworks that it's impossible to see them all in one day. Choose a few sections that interest you and take your time exploring rather than rushing through everything.

  • See the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island: a visit to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is a must for anyone visiting New York for the first time. It's best to book your tickets in advance because they often sell out. If you're short on time or money, the free Staten Island Ferry offers nice views of the statue. However, a guided tour of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island provides a more detailed experience, even though it is more expensive.

Tips for your first visit to New York City

  • Leave your car at home: New York has heavy traffic and is difficult to drive in. Parking is expensive and hard to find. Instead, use public transportation like buses and the NYC Subway. A MetroCard makes getting around easier, and buying an Unlimited Ride pass for your stay is a good idea.

  • Save money with free attractions: New York can be expensive, but there are many free activities to enjoy. Many museums offer free days or hours each month, and several attractions are free all year long, including parks, public libraries, and neighborhood events.

  • Dine at trusted restaurants: every restaurant in New York is rated using an ABC system.

Choose places with an “A” rating for the safest and best food—there are plenty of excellent options throughout the city.

  • Tipping is not optional: tipping is a common part of New York’s culture. In restaurants, the usual tip is 18–25%. In bars, you might expect $1–2 per drink, and even coffee shops often have a tip screen. If you're from Europe, this might feel different, but be prepared to budget for tips.

Final thoughts

You don't need a detailed plan to enjoy New York.

Pick a neighborhood, start walking, and let your day unfold naturally. If you're running short on time and want to make the most of your trip, some planning ahead can help. Consider joining a guided tour with a local to discover places you might otherwise miss.

New York is also a city of neighborhoods, each with its own personality, culture, and rhythm. Exploring areas beyond the main tourist spots can offer a deeper and more personal experience of the city.

Ultimately, the best part of New York is how much there is to explore. Don't worry about seeing everything on your first visit—enjoy the moment and look forward to coming back again.