New York City, also known as the Big Apple – the city that never sleeps. Full of hustle and bustle, tourists and hot dog stands.

Populated by more than 8 million people, but visited by about 66.6 million each year (2019), making it the most visited city in the United States and the first mega-city in the history of population.

City of immigrants. It is the most linguistically diverse city in the world. Tall buildings, museums, a huge park in the middle of the city, five boroughs and endless yellow taxis.

If you want to imagine big city life, New York City is the best example of it.

We’ve seen so much of this amazing city on the big screen, that sometimes on the spot we literally felt like we are in a movie.

Some places are well known to us, after all, we’ve seen them so often in movies and music clips, that we think we know this city inside out. And then we get to the places we had no idea about before we arrived, and we realize how much more this city has to offer.

New York is like a dream!

New York City surprises you, tears of happiness squeeze themselves out of eyes here. The jaw drops from surprise. This city is really like no other in the world, and visiting it was the fulfilment of one of the biggest dreams!

It’s hard to put into words what we felt visiting New York City. You can only understand it once you visit it for yourself.

#1 Statue of Liberty

What’s the best way to start your visit in New York City?

With the Statue of Liberty, of course, as it was the first to be seen by immigrants arriving in New York City after a long boat ride back in the days.

Standing proudly on Liberty Island, Lady Liberty originally called „The Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World“ was a gift of friendship from the people of France to the people of the United States to celebrate 100 years of American independency (It arrived to New York City 10 years too late!) and was erected between 1884 and 1886.

The 93-meter-tall (with pedestal) statue holds a torch in its right hand and a plaque in its left hand, on which the date of the United States’ independence is inscribed. It is made of copper and at first was not green at all, but more brown. The color change was influenced by atmospheric conditions.

The time spent at the island is unlimited, but it is best to arrive with the first morning ferry, due to the number of visitors, which gets really large in the later hours.

In addition to the statue, the island also has a museum with the original torch that originally lit the way for ships to the island, as well as the original size of the statue’s foot, which is absolutely giant.

There are charts around Lady Liberty with all sorts of interesting facts about the statue, and at the entrance audio guides are handed out for free, which definitely make the tour easier.

You can get to the island from Manhattan (New York City) or New Jersey.

If you are coming from Manhattan, your first stop will be the Statue of Liberty. In case you are starting from New Jersey, your first stop will be Ellis Island. However, stay on the ferry, go on and start your tour from Liberty Island, thus avoiding the throngs of tourists.

To visit all the atractions on the Liberty Island, you need to plan at least 3-4h.

We’ve booked our Statue of Liberty visit with the New York City Pass . We recommend you take advantage of these tickets, which will allow you to visit also other attractions in Big Apple as well, while saving 44% of your beloved money. If you prefer, you can also buy only tickets for the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island .

#2 Ellis Island

For immigrants arriving in the United States, Ellis Island was the first stop. It was here that from 1900-1924 all arriving immigrants were registered.

After very long ship journeys, immigrants from Ireland, Italy, Germany, and Poland greeted this island with smiles on their faces, even though many of their relatives did not survive the journey. Those who managed to get as far as here believed in a new beginning.

However, just getting to the island was not a guarantee for everyone to stay in the United States. They were checked by doctors upon arrival. Those who had health problems, such as with their eyes, or mental problems for example, were marked with chalk on their coats. Some were sent to a hospital also located on the island, while others had to board a ship again and make the long journey back to their country of origin.

In the museum located on Ellis Island you will learn numerous stories of the immigrants, see the room where they were registered, (sometimes there were 5’000 people a day in this place!). Numerous photographs and things left behind by the immigrants make it easier to imagine what they had to go through to start their American Dream.

Visiting Ellis Island is included in your Liberty Island ticket and part of the New York City Pass. There is also a ticket option only for Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island .

Entrance to the museum is included in the cost of the tour. Due to the number of exhibits, be sure to reserve enough time for the tour, optimally a few hours. We recommend to book about 3-4h on Ellis Island.

#3 Empire State Building

The 381-meter-tall Empire State Building, is one of New York’s iconic landmarks. Built in the Art Deco style, it was officially opened on May 1, 1931.
The skyscraper is named after New York State’s nickname, which is EmpireState, and work on its construction took just 53 weeks.

The Empire is definitely one of those buildings that you must visit during your stay in NYC, in addition to the beautiful views of the city, you will also find an interactive museum where you will learn about the history of the building.

The views from the 86th floor are breathtaking, this is where you will meet the most tourists. For an additional fee,you can go even higher, up to the 102nd floor.

If you won’t use the New York City Pass for your visit, you can also buy single entrance tickets for Empire State Building .

#4 Top of The Rock

Owned by Rockefeller Center, Top of The Rock is one of 19 buildings belonging to the Rockefeller complex.

Completed in 1933, the 260-meter-tall building is by far the best place in New York to adore the city from above. It is here that you have the best view of the Empire State Building, Times Square, the Hudson River, the East River, Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty.

Also here was taken the iconic photograph “Lunch atop a Skyscraper” depicts workers resting for a meal during the construction.

The elevator stops at the 70th floor, where the first observation deck is located. It is glass-enclosed, very large, and there are even benches to sit and relax. However, if you want to be at the very top you have to climb two floors higher, already on foot. There are no security shafts on the highest level.

The views from the top? Absolutely stunning!

The wind in your hair, the sun’s rays on your face. This is truly an unforgettable feeling worth any money.

Top of the rock is our number one among the observation decks in New York. If you can only decide on one, let it be this one.

When you’re in New York around the Christmas, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is placed annually in Rockefeller Center at the end of November every year.

Buy your tickets with the New York City Pass or only tickets for Rockefeller Center Top of The Rock Observation Deck .

#5 The Edge

Recently opened in March 2020, The Edge at 30 Hudson Yard is the second tallest observation deck in New York City (after One World Observatory).

Located on the 100th floor, the observatory features a 20.9-square-meter glass triangle in the floor that looks down on the street 345 meter below. The 101st floor has a bar and event space.

When visiting the place, you can lean against a 2.7-meter glass barricade tilted at a 6.6-degree angle outward to safely observe the street and rooftops below.

The Edge offers an incredible panoramic view of Manhattan and the Hudson River.

Keep in mind to buy your single ticket for the The Edge in advance. Or buy the New York Citypass (C-All Version) which allows you to visit 10 attractions including The Edge.

#6 Central Park

A New York City icon, Central Park is the most filmed location in the world, the most visited urban park in the United States and one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world. It is also the fifth largest park in the Big Apple.

It was created by man, for the needs of man. As New York City grew, to escape from the noise and chaotic life in the city, people were drawn to the few existing open spaces, mostly cemeteries, for passive recreation.

In the 1840s, members of the city’s elite publicly demanded the construction of a major new park in Manhattan. The first areas of the park were opened to the public in late 1858.

Central Park is a place where you’ll literally feel like you’re not in New York, like you’ve momentarily moved to a completely different place, quiet, peaceful, away from the busy streets and tall buildings. Full of trees, huge fields of greenery, squirrels.

Besides, you can relax by the lake or pond, at the zoo, and for children there is also a playground. Anyway, these are just a few of the amazing places to visit in Centarl Park, there is much more, because Central Park is located on as much as 341 hectares.

Here you will find a list of places that should not be missed during your visit to Centarl Park.

• The Pond overlooking the Plaza Hotel
• Sheep Meadow the perfect place for a picnic
• The Lake to take an boat trip and watch the turtles
• Jacqueline Kennedy Oasis Reservoir for a walk or a jog
• Belvedere Castle with a beautiful view from the top
• Bethesda Terrace with a beautifully decorated walkway under the terrace
• Bethesda Fountain nice fountain with angel on top
• Strawberry Fields with a beautiful mosaic with the inscription Imagine, a memorial to John Lennon
• The Mall, an iconic meeting place for skaters and skateboarders

Entrance to the park is completely free, entrance to the Zoo is paid.

#7 Times Square

Known for its amazing array of colorful, glowing billboards, Times Square is visited by 50 million visitors each year. Also called “the Crossroads of the World,” this amazing place is primarily a shopping and entertainment center, lit at all hours by numerous billboards and advertisements as well as businesses offering 24/7 service.

It owes its name to the New York Times, which moved its headquarters to the then newly erected Times Building, now One Times Square.

Since 1907, Times Square has hosted the New Year’s Eve ball drop, which brings together more than a million people on the square and even more in front of TV.

Times Square is best visited in the evening of course, when all the billboards shine incredibly bright. It gives an amazing atmosphere. The street is full of tourists and artists, and at the end of the street there is a red-lit staircase that offers the best view of Times Square. Truly unforgettable place.

The best about it is, that it’s a free attraction.

#8 Brooklyn Bridge

One of New York City’s most famous landmarks, the nearly 140-year-old Brooklyn Bridge was the first suspension bridge in the world, and for two decades also the longest. It took 13 years to build and was completed in 1883, absorbing about 15 minillion dollars.

The first person to cross the bridge was Emily Roebling, a pioneer among women engineers, who took part in the construction of the bridge, and it was thanks to her that the bridge was completed (the previous architects, her father-in-law and husband, due to illness, as well as death, could not complete the bridge).

The bridge has 6 lanes for cars, and a sidewalk in the middle, which is above the lanes.

The bridge looks just as great from a distance as it does up close. If you decide to admire it from afar, the best place to do so is Pier 15. If you decide to enter the bridge, keep in mind that it is simply adored by tourists, so it is best to visit it early in the morning, when it is not so crowded yet.

The Brooklyn Bridge offers a magnificent view of Manhattan, and the Manhattan Bridge. Also here on the bridge you will buy souvenirs for your beloved one from street sellers which are the cheapest in the whole NY.

The entrance to the bridge is, of course, free.

#9 Manhattan Bridge & Dumbo

One of the most famous photo spots for the wonderful Manhattan Bridge is Dumbo. On the right and on the left stand the townhouses, in the middle the Manhattan Bridge looks magnificent. Many people coming to New York dream of taking a photo in this place, well guess what? It is very easy to get there, just type Dumbo in Google Maps .

Like the Brooklyn Bridge mentioned earlier, this place is also beloved by tourists, so if you want to have it practically all to yourself, set your alarm clock for an early morning hour.

If you want to admire views from Manhattan bridge, the best views are guaranteed during golden hour, or at the evening, when the city is all lit up. Just look for the holes in the fence on the bridge, to get even better views.

Both Dumbo and the Manhattan Bridge are free attractions.

#10 Wall Street

Manhattan’s Financial District is one of the largest in the United States and one of the most important in the world. It was here that the first skyscrapers in New York were built.

Wall street is the destination of many tourists traveling to New York. It is the place where the New York Stock Exchange made its permanent home.

But probably not many of you know why it’s called Wall Street?

Behold, in the 17th century, Wall Street was the northern border of what was then New Amsterdam (now New York). There was originally a wooden fence built of planks, and later a 4-meter palisade, the remnants of which can still be seen in the cobblestone street. The wall was intended to protect the Dutch from attack by Native American tribes, New Englanders or the British.

This place is also known to many movie lovers, probably everyone knows the film “Wolf of Wall Street”.

Even at the Wall Street it’s all about the money, the visit itself is a free attraction.

#11 Federal Hall

This historic building in the Financial District of Manhattan, is one of the largest landmarks in the United States. When New York was the capital of the United States the original building served as New York’s first City Hall and it was renamed as Federal Hall, as it hosted the 1st Congress and was the place where George Washington was sworn in as the nation’s first president.

Today it is a national memorial called the Federal Hall National Memorial and you can visit it for free. Inside you can see the George Washington Inaugural Bible, on which Washington took his inaugural oath in 1789.

#12 Stock Exchange

The New York Stock Exchange is an American stock exchange and its origins date back to 1817. The New York Stock Exchange is closed only a few days a year including Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, Memorial Day and Thanksgiving.

Annually the Stock Exchange operates for averages about 253 trading days per year. The NYSE’s opening and closing bells mark the beginning and the end of each trading day from Monday to Friday from 9:30 AM to 4 PM. The building in which the NYSE operates was built in 1903 in the Financial District of Lower Manhattan.

Unfortunately, it’s not a place you can visit, but due to the fact that the New York Stock Exchange shapes the world economy, it’s definitely worth a visit, if only from the outside, and there you can admire it for free.

#13 Charging Bull

Charging Bull, sometimes referred to as the Bull of Wall Street was created by Italian artist Arturo Di Modica in the wake of the 1987 Black Monday stock market crash. The bull is the symbol of aggressive financial optimism and prosperity.

Tourists love this sculpture, so be prepared for a long line for a photo, both in front and behind the bull. This is because there are rumors that catching the bull by the testicles is said to bring good luck in finances.

A bronze sculpture stands on Broadway just north of Bowling Green in the Financial District of Manhattan and is a free attraction.

#14 Fearless Girl

Located in New Yorks City’s Financial District, Fearless Girl statue, was sculpture in honour of The Internationals Women’s Day in 2017. To celebrate the importance of having greater gender diversity on corporate boards and in company leadership positions. Statue of Fearless Girl also stands as inspiration for the next generations of women leader.

The 130-centimeter tall, brazen-made “Fearless Girl” at first stood near the Charging Bull, facing the bull. However, after complaints from the bull sculptor, she was moved opposite the New York Stock Exchange building. All that remains of it in front of the bull, are shoe prints on the ground.

Therefore, don’t be surprised when Google Maps guides you opposite the bull. Turn around and head to the Stock Exchange where the statue is currently located.

It’s a free attraction.

#15 Stone Street

In the oldest part of world megapolis New York City, there is the Stone Street. It is a very short street, almost only one cobbled street in New York. Souranded by old historic brick buildings, which remind the ones in Europe, hiding among the skyscrapers of lower Manhattan.

The buildings house mostly bars and restaurants, and the street is filled with tables and benches where you can eat outdoors, as the entire street is closed to traffic. When you’re in the area don’t miss this place, even if you don’t plan to eat at one of the many restaurants, it’s worth at least walking down this street.

It is incredibly charming and unique. In addition, on the spot you can feel as if you are on a movie set, or in another era, because the street remembers the times of the first Dutch settlers.

Entrance to the street is of course for free.

#16 5th Avenue

One of the most expensive shopping streets in the world. Filled with stores selling luxury clothing, accessories or jewelry.

And incredibly expensive buildings such as the Plaza Hotel, Trump Tower and the iconic Flatiron Building – the world’s first skyscraper.

In addition, 5th Avenue is home to numerous museums, such as the Guggenheim Museum, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Museum of the city of New York. As well as the New York Public Library and the beautiful St. Patricks Cathedral.

5th Avenue leading to Central Park, has not always been a luxury street; originally it was just a narrower thoroughfare, and its central blocks were largely residential neighborhoods, but were later developed as commercial areas.

A walk down this street is a must when you visit New York, even if you don’t plan any exclusive shopping.

Of course it’s a free attraction, except the money you may spend here.

#17 Flatiron building

This amazing 87-meter tall building resembles an iron in its appearance, hence the name Flatiron building. Built in 1902 at the time of its unveiling it was the tallest building in the world. It was developed as the headquarters of construction firm Fuller Company so its original name is the Fuller Building.

Unfortunately, entering the inside is not possible, but just admiring this triangular building from the outside is quite an attraction that you should not miss while walking around New York.

 #18 Chrysler building

Built in 1930, the Chrysler Building is a perfect example of the amazing Art Deco style. At 319 meters tall, the building was the tallest building in the world for 11 months immediately after its completion. Constructed by Walter Chrysler, the head of the Chrysler Corporation the building was entirely founded by him. As he wanted his children to inherit it.

Although feelings about the building’s design were mixed at first, in 2007 it was ranked ninth on the List of America’s Favorite Architecture by the American Institute of Architects.

The crown of the building is decorated with decorative metal cladding in Art Deco patterns. In addition, there are steinless steel hood ornaments, hubcabs and fenders on the 31st floor, and decorative eagles on the 61st floor.

The building’s lobby is impressive. Built on a triangular shape, it is a paragon of the Art Deco style. The floors are covered with yellow travertine from Siena, and the walls are covered with huge slabs of African red granite.

Every element of this interior deserves attention, be it the entrance door, the lamps, the futuristic digital clock, as well as the 32 elevators in the skyscraper, whose interior is entirely inlaid wood creating beautiful Art Deco style patterns.

The lobby of the Chrysler building is also currently the only place open to the public.

#19  New York Public Library

Founded in 1911, the New York Public Library contains some 2.5 million items.

The main entrance to the library is located on 5th Avenue and features a marble facade, with a pair of stone lions defending the entrance. Four stories high, the library contains the Main Reading Room, the Public Catalog Room and various reading rooms, offices and art exhibitions.

The library is a symbol of the democratic ideal of free and open access to knowledge.

Entrance to the library is free and anyone can use the main reading room. The Rose Room after early registration.

#20 Grand Central Terminal

Opened in 1913, located in Midtown Manhattan Grand Central Terminal, or simply Grand Central. It has 44 platforms and two main levels for passengers: an upper for intercity trains and a lower for commuter trains.

Terminal contains a variety of stores and food vendors. Some upscale restaurants and bars, two food halls, and even a grocery marketplace. It is the second-busiest train station in North America.

This amazing place has earned several designations, including National Historic Landmark, which is not surprising since the place is truly amazing and gorgeous.

In the middle of the terminal is the main information booth, with a beautiful four-sided brass clock on top. Each of the clock faces is made of opal glass. The sun peeks in here through three huge windows located on the main wall in the Main Concourse.

On the ceiling is a mural with constellations painted with stars and several stripes in gold on a turquoise background. Even the restrooms draw attention here, as they look like they were taken out of another era.

Here you’ll find also the probably most beautiful Apple Store which of course profits from the beautiful architecture.

There’s another curiosity that few people know about. Grand Central Terminal has a Whispering Gallery, which is located in the terminal’s food and beverage area on the lower floor outside the Oyster Bar & Restaurant.

Two people must stand at opposite corners of the arched entrance, facing the walls, and speak as you would normally speak if you were standing next to each other. Even if you are so far apart, you will be able to hear each other as if you were standing right next to each other.

Entry to Grand Central Terminal is free.

#21  9/11 Memorial and Museum

The memorial and museum is on the site of the World Trade Center, the former location of the twin towers that were destroyed in the 9/11 attacks, which killed 2’983 people, and the 1993 bombing of the World Trade Center, which killed six people.

The memorial was built exactly where the two World Trade Center towers once stood.

“Reflecting Absence,” for that is the name of the two fountains, is a design created by two architects Michael Arad and Peter Walker. It was selected from among 5201 other designs from around the world in 2004.

The two pools, 4’000 square meters in size, are the largest man-made waterfalls in the United States. They symbolize the loss of life and the physical void left by the attacks.

The names of the victims of the attacks are inscribed on bronze sills on the memorial pools. The names are arranged according to an algorithm, creating “meaningful adjacencies” based on relationships.

A white rose stuck in the victim’s name signifies that the person would have celebrated a birthday on that day.
This memorial is one of the most heartbreaking memorials.

The museum is located right next to the pools, and opened to the public on May 21st, 2014. The museum’s underground collection includes more than 40’000 photographs, 14’000 artifacts, more than 3’500 audio recordings, more than 500 hours of video, and steel from the Twin Towers, including the Last Column, the last piece of steel to leave Ground Zero in May 2002.

Most heartbreaking are the recordings of survivors calling their loved ones, and first responders (including 911 calls), photos of all the victims, but also photos and videos of the disasters, the collapse, the wreckage, and the people who jumped from the buildings.

Tickets to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum are part of the New York City Pass . You can also buy the 9/11 Museum tickets separated. It is incredibly sad, but also worth visiting place. The visit of the Memorial outside is for free.

#22 Oculus

A shopping mall and hub station in one. This site was built on the site of the World Trade Center, after the attacks and destruction of the WTC on September 11.

Designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, Oculus was built for 4 trillion dollars. It resembles a ribs in its appearance, and thanks to this design, a lot of light gets inside.

Even if you’re not interested in shopping or taking the subway, it’s definitely worth visiting this place from the outside and inside, it’s an amazing architectural gem.

Entrance to the building is free.

#23 The Vessel

Built in 2019 Vessel at Hudson Yards was designed by British designer Thomas Heatherwick, while the individual components were manufactured in Italy and shipped to the United States. The entire structure resembles a honeycomb in appearance and has a beautiful copper color.

Unfortunately, due to the fact that several people have committed suicide by jumping from the Vessel, getting to the top of the structure is impossible at this time. However, even the views from the bottom, from the outside as well as from the inside are impressive.

Entrance is free, so it is worth taking advantage of this fact and visiting these structures.

#24 Trinity Church

In the midst of all tall buildings in Lower Manhattan, stands Trinity Church. Build in Gothic Revival style building was erected from 1839 to 1846 (this is the third building of Trinity Church, the first was built in 1698 on the grounds of the garden and then the burial site).It was the tallest building in the United States until 1869, as well as the tallest in New York City until 1890.

Trinity Church is historic parish church in the Episcopal Diocese of New York, known for its history, location, architecture and endowment. It is also one of the largest landowners of Manhattan.

Right next to the church is a cementary, with quite old tombstones, the oldest tombstone being dated 1681.

The place makes a truly amazing impression, as if it didn’t fit into the surrounding world at all.

Entrance to the church is for free.

#25 St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Located on 5th Avenue, across from Rockefeller Center, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is the largest Gothic Revival Catholic cathedral in North America.

Opened to the public May 25th, 1879, the cathedral looks incredibly impressive from the outside, especially among the surrounding modern tall buildings, creating an amazing contrast.

Inside, the cathedral is equally impressive, with several stained glass windows, and two pipe organs.
If you are already strolling along 5th Avenue, don’t miss this place, go inside at least for a moment, or admire the cathedral from the outside.

#26 High Line

The more than 2-mile-long High Line is an elevated linear park, greenway and rail trail created on a former branch of the New York Central Railroad. The rail line was closed due to numerous deaths, only to be repaired later by a non-profit organization called Friends of High Line. It is located on the west side of Manhattan.

Since its opening in 2009, it has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in New York City.

The High Line is ideal for walking, and with as many as eleven entrances (five entrances for the disable), it’s easy to find your way around the park.

The park has many attractions, including interesting plants, trees, shrubs, sculptures, as well as views of the Hudson River and the city. The most interesting of the High Line sites include 10TH Avenue Square and Overlook, The Tiffany & CO. Foundation Overlook, Diller Von Frustenberg Sun Deck and Water Feature, 520 West 28TH Street by Zaha Hadid and Chelsea Market Passage.

#27 Little Island

Located at Pier 55, Little Island is an artificial island park in the Hudson River. The surface of Little Island is almost 1 hectare and it is located on 132 structures which by their shape resemble tulips suspended above the water. In the park there are numerous trees, bushes, lawns, as well as paths leading to view points.

In addition, there is a small stage, several stores, several tables under the canopy, which are just perfect for eating a bagel, as well as a 687-seat amphitheater.

#28 Washington Square Park

A public park in Greenwitch Village, it is one of the most famous parks in New York City. The open space is dominated by a fountain in the middle of the park, which is used on warm days for visitors to cool their feet, and the huge Washington Square Arch, which was built to celebrate the centennial of George Washington’s inauguration as president of the United States.

This is not the original arch, the original was built of plaster and wood, but because it was so popular with visitors, it was decided to put up a new arch, this time made of marble.

Besides, in the park you will find many trees providing shade on sunny days, and benches where you can sit to rest from walking around the Big Apple. It is allowed to sit on the grass as well.

Numerous street artists are sure to make your visit to this green place more pleasant. You can hear the music almost from every corner.

There is one famous food truck in the park, the queue for it is incredibly long. It is said to be the best vegan Indian food in the city.

#29 China Town

Located in lower Manhattan, the Chinatown neighbourhood is home to the largest concentration of Chinese in the Western Hemisphere, with an estimated population of 90’000 to 100’000.

There you will find grocery stores, a fish market, fruit and vegetable stands, bubble tea stores, many souvenir stores, and restaurants serving delicious food.

#30 Little Italy

Located near Chinatown Little Italy, is a not too long street with numerous Italian restaurants, and several souvenir stores, similar in fact to those in Chinatown. This location was used for many Hollywood Mafia movies as well.

#31  SoHo

The name SoHo comes from the acronym for “South of Houston.” It is a neighborhood in Lower Manhattan that was home to many artists in the 1970s.

They took an interest in high lofts, with countless tall windows addmiting natural light, which were remnants of large manufacturers, and converted them into residential lofts, studios and art galleries. Although it was illegal to inhabit them in most cases, as the lofts were unsuitable for this purpose.

SoHo stretches over 26 blocks and includes a total of about five hundred buildings, most of which feature cast-iron architectural elements.

Today, Soho is known for its commercialization and eclectic mix of boutiques for shopping, art galleries, chain stores, and a desirable place to live.

As you stroll through this neighborhood, pay attention to the distinctive buildings, admire the iron structures, balconies, and staircases located outside the buildings, something you’ve probably seen in many movies with NYC in the background.

#32 East Village

Initially, the location of the present-day East Village was occupied by the Lenape Native Americans. In the 17th century, the area was transformed into small farms run by settlers from the Dutch colony, which over time had become wealthy country estates by the middle of the 18th century.

After wealthy people left the area and moved to the Upper West Side and the Upper East Side in the mid-19th century, immigrants, mostly Germans, but also Austrians and Irish, began to settle there. Since most of the residents of the East Village spoke German, the neighborhood became known as Little Germany.

In 1904, the population began to shrink, the main cause of which is cited as the sinking of the steam boat General Solcum with 1’300 passengers on board.

After the Germans moved out, Eastern European Jews, Ukrainians, Poles, Slovaks, Greeks and Hungarians settled in the East Village. In 1983, they too began to leave the East Village due to real-estate price increases following the success of the arts scene in the East Village.

Today, the East Village is considered the birthplace of punk, an oasis for odds, and a paradise for artists. A place for a great nightlife, with old-school bars and music venues. Meanwhile, during the day, you’ll find boutiques, vintage shops, tattoo studios and Ukrainian restaurants that serve excellent pierogi. Tested on our own skin.

#33 West Village

Named “Little Bohemia” in 1916, the West Village was home to colorful, artistic residents and was an important landmark on the map of America for bohemian culture.

It was here that the first racially integrated nightclub in the United States, called “Café Society” showcasing African American talent, was established, as well as New York City’s oldest continuously running Off-Broadway theatre “Cherry Lane Theatre”.

West Village residents had very progressive attitudes, and consequently the neighborhood was a focal point of new movements and ideas, like political, artistic, or cultural.

The distinctive red buildings, with steps leading to stately doors, have their own unique atmosphere.
Any changes in construction in this district are forbidden, even developers must preserve the main facade and aesthetics of the buildings, also during renovation.

The West Village is green and elegant, it’s where you’ll find the building featured in “Sex and the city,” where the famous Carrie Bradshaw lived, the narrowest house in New York which is only 2.7 meter wide, the shortest street in New York – Gay Street and Jefferson Market Library which initially was woman’s prison.

Also in West Village you will find one of the most recognizable building among series lovers- the Friends building. Anyone who loves the series knows well which building is in question. If you love Friends series as much as we do, dont miss this site.

A walk through this neighborhood is a must when visiting the Big Apple.

#34 New York Yankees Baseball Match

Is there a more American sport than Baseball?

It’s definitely something that as a visitor to New York City you don’t plan on doing, but if you have enough time it’s definitely worth it, at least once in your life.

Although the whole game lasts a couple of hours, reserve one evening for it. It’s not just the game but all the surroundings around it. Buy a baseball cap, popcorn, hot dog and enjoy the match.

Buy your New York Yankees tickets and have and very American experience!

#35 Hoboken and JP Bagel

Located on the Hudson Waterfront in New Jersey, Hoboken was first settled by Europeans colony in the 17th century. In the early 19th century, the city was developed first as a resort and later as a residential neighbourhood.

Hoboken is also know as the birthplace and hometown of Frank Sinatra and a place where the first game of baseball was recorded.

Today Hoboken is one of the best places to live. Walking through the streets of Hoboken you can feel like in a completely different place on earth. It is green, peaceful, people seem to be in less of a hurry. The gastronomic base here is incredibly rich, especially on the main street, you can find something for every taste, even the most picky one.

Speaking of food, don’t miss the delicious JP Bagel in Hoboken, some of the best are Whole Bagel with egg, or with cream cheese, tomato and salmon.

Besides, Hoboken has quite nice parks at the Hudson River from which you can admire the amazing Manhattan skyline.

If you have a moment to escape the ever-busy Manhattan, Hoboken is the place where you will feel unbelievably relaxed.

#36 New York Museums

New York City has a large variety of museums to choose from. However, when you visit the Big Apple for only a few days, you are unfortunately not able to visit them all.

Below a list of the most important museums in New York, (in addition to those described above) match them to your preferences.

• The Metropolitan Museum of Art
• The Museum of Modern Art
• Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
• American Museum of Natural History
• Whitney Museum of American Art
• Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum

If you plan to fly only to New York City, then of course you can easily get here from any major airport in Europe. In some cases, however, you will need a connecting flight.

If you are already in the United States, consider to take a train or bus instead.

• Flights to New York City
• Train to New York City
• Bus to New York City

Getting around New York City is incredibly with the famous New York City Subway. We would recommend to travel with the Subway only, cause other options like Taxi, Uber or Lyft can be expensive and time consuming due to the incredible high amount of cars.

We used the App Citymapper during our stay. It is in our opinion by far the best app to get around with the New York City Subway.

Download QR-Code

‎Citymapper

Developer: Citymapper Limited

Price: Free⁺

Download QR-Code

Citymapper

Developer: Citymapper Limited

Price: Free

Unfortunately New York is not a cheap destination. Food in restaurants can be really expensive, so if you want to save a little, use this little hint where to eat cheaply and well.

• Chipotle | Delicious Mexican buritos
• Poke Bowl | Amazing fresh bowls
• Little Poland | Tasty pierogi
• Greens | Healthy salads
• Piki Poke | Great bowls

The hotel base in New York is incredibly extensive, everyone will find something for themselves, depending on their wallet. However, there is not much to count on budget options here, NYC is expensive.

The only option to save money on accommodation are hostels, which are dormitory rooms shared with other travelers, also sharing a bathroom.

If you want a private room, often these options can also be found in hostels, but the bathroom will still be shared, and the room small. The price is starting from $80per night. Here you will find options for hostels in New York.

If a hostel is not for you, you can rent a room in a hotel. Prices are unfortunately higher, but you can count on more privacy, also a private bathroom. The price of a hotel in New York City in a good location is a minimum of $180.

We, on the other hand, opted for an apartment in Hoboken in New Jersey, the price per night was about $175. In addition to the studio (a combination of bedroom and living room), we had a private bathroom and kitchen (although we must admit that we did not even have time to prepare breakfast).

For us it was the best option because  to get to the city did not take so much time, and in the evening we could walk in the quiet neighborhood. In tha morning streets were empty, and we ate breakfast in the park. Once again, we recommend JP Bagel! 

Any time of the year is good to visit the Big Apple. Depending on your preferences, you can opt for a warm spring when everything is coming to life, a hot summer when good weather and sunshine is almost guaranteed, a colorful autumn during which Central Park looks like a dream, or a white winter and Christmach charm.

Our first visit to New York was in summer, but we already know that next time we would like to visit this amazing city in winter and feel its Christmas atmosphere.

Before you decide which season to visit, check the prices of flights and hotels, as they sometimes vary greatly depending on the season.

Most passport holders will need to apply for the ESTA form. This will give you the permission to stay up to 90 days in USA.

The prices are per person, except for the accommodation, which we rent for 2 people.

Accommodation: $80 – $175 / night

Restaurant: $13 – $20 / meal

Snack: $4 – $11 / meal

Pleasure: $4 – $10 / event

Subway: $2.75 / ride

Activity: $24 – $74 / event