Experience the greatest hits of New York City in 3 days, from the Statue of Liberty to world-class museums and iconic skyscrapers. This itinerary covers the must-see landmarks that define the city.
This plan is built around the city’s best-known sights, in a sensible order to keep travel time low. Opening days and times change, so check the official website of each place before you go. Not sure 3 days is right? Read our travel tips.
Know before you go
Best Time to Visit
April–June is New York's finest season — Central Park in bloom, mild temperatures (15–22°C) and the city at its most vibrant. The Tribeca Film Festival and countless outdoor events make spring exceptional.
July–August is hot and humid (30°C+) but the city buzzes with free outdoor concerts, SummerStage performances and rooftop culture. Book air-conditioned hotels and museums to escape the heat.
September–November is the local favourite: the humidity breaks, the light turns golden over Central Park and the full cultural season — theatre, opera, galleries — kicks into gear.
Getting Around New York
Subway runs 24/7 — the most efficient way around the city. Tapping a contactless card at the gates is the simplest way to pay. The A, C, E and 1, 2, 3 lines are the main Manhattan arteries.
Walking is best below 59th Street. Manhattan's grid system makes navigation intuitive — numbered streets run east-west, avenues north-south. From Times Square to the High Line is a 15-minute walk.
AirTrain & subway connect JFK to Manhattan in 60–75 minutes (plus a subway ride). The LIRR from Penn Station to JFK takes 30 minutes. Taxis from JFK charge a flat rate to Manhattan.
More on neighbourhoods, food and practical tips in our New York city guide.
Downtown & Waterfront Icons
Liberty, 9/11 Memorial, and Lower Manhattan views
- Morning
Statue of Liberty
Visit America's most iconic monument on Liberty Island. Experience breathtaking views of New York Harbor and the Manhattan skyline from this UNESCO World Heritage site.
🎟️ Book tickets → - Afternoon
Lunch in Battery Park
Enjoy lunch at a waterfront restaurant with views of the harbor and Ellis Island.
- Afternoon
The 9/11 Memorial & Museum
Pay respects at this powerful memorial featuring two reflecting pools set in the footprints of the Twin Towers. The museum tells the stories of resilience and remembrance.
🎟️ Book tickets → - Evening
Walk across Brooklyn Bridge
Stroll across this iconic 1883 bridge for stunning sunset views of Manhattan's skyline and the East River.
Midtown Landmarks & Museums
Empire State Building, observatories, and world-class art
- Morning
Empire State Building
Ascend this Art Deco masterpiece to the 86th-floor observation deck for 360-degree views of New York City and beyond.
🎟️ Book tickets → - Afternoon
Lunch in Midtown
Grab lunch at a classic New York deli or restaurant near Times Square.
- Afternoon
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
Explore one of the world's finest modern art collections, featuring works by Picasso, Van Gogh, and Warhol in this iconic Fifth Avenue museum.
🎟️ Book tickets → - Evening
Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center
Experience the city from Rockefeller Center's 70th floor, with unobstructed views of Central Park and the Manhattan skyline, especially magical at sunset.
🎟️ Book tickets →
Cultural Treasures & Upper Manhattan
Natural history, iconic cathedral, and waterfront views
- Morning
American Museum of Natural History (AMNH)
Discover one of the world's largest natural history museums, home to the famous dinosaur halls, the Rose Center Planetarium, and countless treasures.
🎟️ Book tickets → - Afternoon
Lunch near Central Park
Enjoy lunch at a café or restaurant overlooking Central Park.
- Afternoon
Cathedral of Saint John the Divine
Visit this stunning Gothic Revival cathedral, the largest in the United States, featuring soaring architecture, beautiful stained glass, and peaceful interior spaces.
🎟️ Book tickets → - Evening
Walk through Times Square and Broadway
Experience the electrifying energy of Times Square and stroll through the theater district, exploring the bright lights and iconic billboards of this legendary area.
Tickets for this itinerary
Popular sights sell out or have long ticket lines in high season. Booking ahead fixes your time slot; prices are shown live on the booking page.