Want an itinerary like this for your trip?
Tell us where you're going and get a personalized plan in seconds — completely free.
Plan My Trip

12-Day Ultimate New York City Itinerary

Viewed by 418 travelers

Day 1: Exploring Midtown

New York, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ess-a-Bagel

Start your day with a classic New York bagel smothered in cream cheese from the iconic Ess-a-Bagel.
Walk or take the subway to your first stop.
USD12, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Times Square

Immerse yourself in the neon lights and vibrant energy of Times Square.
A 10-minute walk from the bagel shop.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

Discover an incredible collection of modern art within the heart of Manhattan.
Subway ride of 5 stops via the E line.
USD25, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Modern

Indulge in a contemporary meal overlooking the sculpture garden at The Modern.
Located within MoMA.
USD40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Rockefeller Center

Take a stroll through the iconic Rockefeller Center and marvel at the art deco architecture.
Walk 5 minutes from The Modern.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Top of the Rock Observation Deck

Enjoy panoramic views of the City from the Top of the Rock.
Located within Rockefeller Center.
USD38, 1 hour

4:30PM

Walk through Central Park

Relax with a walk in Central Park, a green oasis amid the urban hustle.
15-minute walk from Rockefeller Center.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Becco

Enjoy Italian cuisine with a fantastic selection of pasta at Becco.
15-minute walk from Central Park.
USD30, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Broadway Show

Experience the magic of New York's Broadway with a captivating performance.
10-minute walk from Becco.
USD100 (avg.), 2.5 hours
Find Hotels in New York

Day 2: Downtown Discovery

New York, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Jack's Wife Freda

Savor a creative breakfast dish paired with delightful coffee.
Take the subway for 5 stops on the A line.
USD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

Catch a ferry to visit these iconic symbols of freedom.
Short walk to the Battery Park ferry terminal.
USD18, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Fraunces Tavern

Enjoy hearty fare in a historic setting at Fraunces Tavern.
Take a ferry back and walk 10 minutes.
USD30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum

Pay your respects at this poignant memorial and explore the museum’s artifacts.
10-minute walk from Fraunces Tavern.
USD28, 2 hours

4:30PM

Wall Street walking tour

Explore the heart of America's financial district and see the New York Stock Exchange.
Walk through the Financial District.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Walking Across Brooklyn Bridge

Stroll across this iconic bridge for stunning skylines and picturesque views.
15-minute walk to the bridge from Wall Street.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The River Café

Dine with a spectacular view of Manhattan while savoring American cuisine.
Located on the Brooklyn side of the bridge.
USD80, 2 hours

8:30PM

Brooklyn Heights Promenade

Finish your day with a scenic walk along the promenade, enjoying sunset views.
5-minute walk from The River Café.
Free, 1 hour
Find Hotels in New York

Day 3: Brooklyn Culture

Brooklyn, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bakeri

Cosy up in this charming spot with fresh pastries and coffee.
Take the subway on the F line to Williamsburg.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Williamsburg

Walk around this trendy neighborhood filled with boutiques and street art.
Short walk from Bakeri.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Brooklyn Museum

Visit this impressive museum known for its art collections and exhibitions.
Take the subway to Eastern Parkway station.
USD16, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Smorgasburg

Enjoy a variety of food options at this famous outdoor food market.
Walk 15 minutes from the museum.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Wander through the beautiful gardens and enjoy the tranquility.
5-minute walk from Smorgasburg.
USD15, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Prospect Park

Relax or take a bike ride through this expansive park designed by the creators of Central Park.
15-minute walk from the Botanic Garden.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Olmsted

Delight in seasonal dishes at this unique garden restaurant.
Take a short Uber or subway ride.
USD50, 2 hours

8:00PM

Brooklyn Brewery Tour

Join a guided tour of this popular brewery for tastings and insights.
Walk 20 minutes from the restaurant.
USD20, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Brooklyn

Day 4: Queens Adventure

Queens, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sweetleaf

Enjoy your morning coffee and breakfast in this stylish café.
Take the subway to Long Island City.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

MoMA PS1

Explore contemporary art installations in this creative space.
A short walk from Sweetleaf.
USD10, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Astoria's Street Art

Wander through Astoria to discover vibrant murals and local culture.
Take the subway to Astoria.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Astoria Seafood

Enjoy fresh seafood in a casual setting at Astoria Seafood.
10-minute walk to the restaurant.
USD30, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Noguchi Museum

Savor tranquility while admiring the sculptures and gardens of Isamu Noguchi.
Take the subway back to Long Island City.
USD10, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Queens Museum

Explore this museum's focus on the city's history and art, including the famous panorama.
Walking distance from the Noguchi Museum.
USD8, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Flushing Meadows-Corona Park

Stroll through this expansive park that encompasses sport venues and sculptures.
Walk to the park from Queens Museum.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Arepa Lady

Experience tasty Colombian arepas and unique dishes at this local spot.
15-minute walk from the park.
USD25, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening at Gantry Plaza State Park

Relax and take in the beautiful skyline views of Manhattan at sunset.
Subway back to Long Island City.
Free, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Queens

Day 5: Island Day Trip

Staten Island, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Good Life

Kickstart your day with flavorful breakfast options at this cozy café.
Subway to the St. George Station.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Take the Staten Island Ferry

Enjoy a free ferry ride with stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and skyline.
Short walk to the ferry terminal.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Historic Richmond Town

Step back in time as you explore this preserved colonial village.
Short taxi ride from the ferry.
USD8, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Stonehouse

Relax at The Stonehouse with traditional American fare and a lovely atmosphere.
Walking distance from Richmond Town.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Staten Island Greenbelt

Breathe in the fresh air as you hike through beautiful trails and parks.
Take a short taxi ride to the Greenbelt.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Snug Harbor Cultural Center

Explore art exhibitions, botanical gardens, and scenic spaces.
Short taxi ride from the Greenbelt.
USD5, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Enoteca Maria

Savor delicious Italian dishes made by “nonna” or grandmothers from around the world.
15-minute walk from Snug Harbor.
USD40, 2 hours

8:00PM

Return to Manhattan

Wind down your day by heading back to Manhattan via the ferry.
Ferry terminal back to St. George.
Free, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Staten Island

Day 6: The Bronx Excursion

Bronx, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Bronx Diner

Enjoy classic diner breakfasts, from pancakes to omelettes.
Take the subway on the 4 line.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

The Bronx Zoo

Spend time exploring one of the largest metropolitan zoos in the world.
Short walk from the diner.
USD45, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Arthur Avenue

Savor authentic Italian cuisine in the Bronx's Little Italy.
Take a 10-minute subway ride.
USD30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

New York Botanical Garden

Admire stunning plant collections and beautiful landscapes.
Short taxi from Arthur Avenue.
USD30, 2 hours

4:30PM

Yankee Stadium Tour

Experience a guided tour of this iconic stadium, home of the New York Yankees.
Subway ride to 161st Street.
USD25, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at City Island Lobster House

Indulge in fresh seafood while enjoying views of the marina.
Take a taxi to City Island.
USD50, 2 hours

8:30PM

Relax at City Island

Unwind by the waterfront, enjoying the calming waters and sunset.
Area to explore on foot.
Free, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Bronx

Day 7: Art and Culture in Harlem

New York, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Hive

Start your day with wholesome breakfast options in a laid back atmosphere.
Take the subway to Harlem.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Studio Museum in Harlem

Explore inspiring work by artists of African descent and experience the cultural richness.
Short walk from The Hive.
USD10, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Walk through Marcus Garvey Park

Relax in this historic park that offers plenty of green space.
5-minute walk from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

African Market & Harlem's Historic District

Wander around local shops and learn about Harlem's rich history.
Walk around the area.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Sylvia's Restaurant

Feast on delicious soul food at this renowned restaurant.
Short walk from the historic district.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Apollo Theater Tour

Join a history tour of the legendary Apollo Theater, an icon of American music.
Short walk from Sylvia's.
USD30, 1 hour

4:00PM

The National Jazz Museum in Harlem

Explore jazz’s rich history at this museum dedicated to the genre.
5-minute walk from Apollo Theater.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Red Rooster

Dine on upscale comfort food that pays homage to the Harlem community.
5-minute walk from the museum.
USD50, 2 hours

7:30PM

Live Jazz Show at Red Rooster

End your day with live music from renowned artists in a cozy setting.
Stay at the venue.
Free (after dinner), 2 hours
Find Hotels in New York

Day 8: Shopping Excursion

New York, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Balthazar

Enjoy a classic French breakfast in this upscale bistro.
Take the subway to Soho.
USD30, 1 hour

9:00AM

Shopping in Soho

Explore boutiques, unique shops, and high-end retailers in this trendy area.
Walking distance from Balthazar.
Free (shopping costs vary), 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Lure Fishbar

Savor excellent sushi and seafood dishes in a lively atmosphere.
Walking distance from SoHo.
USD50, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Continue Shopping on Fifth Avenue

Head to the iconic Fifth Avenue for luxury shopping and flagship stores.
Short subway ride.
Free (shopping costs vary), 3 hours

4:30PM

Visit the Plaza Hotel

Take a tour of this world-famous hotel and its grand lobby.
Walk to the hotel from Fifth Avenue.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at the Palm

Indulge in an upscale steakhouse experience at The Palm.
Short walk from the Plaza Hotel.
USD70, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Relax at Central Park

Enjoy a leisurely evening stroll or a ride in a horse-drawn carriage.
5-minute walk from The Palm.
USD50 (carriage ride), 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in New York

Day 9: Cultural Exploration

Brooklyn, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tom's Diner

Get nostalgic with a classic diner breakfast in this cozy spot.
Take subway to Brooklyn Heights.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Brooklyn Heights Historical District

Stroll through beautifully preserved brownstones and historic neighborhoods.
Short walk from Tom's Diner.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Brooklyn Historical Society

Dive into Brooklyn’s history and rich cultural heritage.
Walk to the society.
USD10, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Brooklyn’s Art Galleries

Explore local art galleries showcasing independent artists.
Walking distance from the Historical Society.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Chocolate Room

Indulge your sweet tooth with delicious chocolates and light fare.
Short walk from the galleries.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Botanic Gardens & Prospect Park

Visit the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and take a leisurely hike in Prospect Park.
Short taxi ride.
USD15, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Patsy’s Pizzeria

Enjoy classic New York-style pizza at a local favorite.
Short taxi ride back towards the bridges.
USD25, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Brooklyn Bridge Park

Stroll through this waterfront park with stunning skyline views.
Short walk from Patsy’s.
Free, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Brooklyn

Day 10: Iconic Landmarks

New York, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sarabeth’s

Start your day with a delicious healthy breakfast at Sarabeth's.
Take the subway to Central Park South.
USD25, 1 hour

9:00AM

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Explore one of the largest and finest art museums in the world.
5-minute walk from breakfast.
USD25, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Boat House

Dine with a view while enjoying delicious American cuisine at The Boat House.
Located in Central Park.
USD40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Guggenheim Museum

Admire modern art in this unique architectural masterpiece.
Short walk from The Boat House.
USD25, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the American Museum of Natural History

Delve into the fascinating history of nature with impressive exhibits.
Take the C subway a few stops west.
USD28, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Palm Too

Feast on premium steaks at this upscale sibling of The Palm.
Subway back to Midtown.
USD70, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Evening Walk at the High Line

Finish your day with a leisurely walk along this elevated park with gardens.
15-minute subway ride from dinner.
Free, 1 hour
Find Hotels in New York

Day 11: Day of Leisure

New York, USA

9:00AM

Brunch at Café Mogador

Enjoy Moroccan-inspired dishes in a laid-back ambiance.
Take the subway to East Village.
USD25, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore East Village

Wander around the artsy East Village, filled with unique shops and cafés.
Walking distance from the café.
Free, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Katz's Delicatessen

Experience a classic pastrami sandwich at this legendary deli.
Take a 15-minute walk from East Village.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Tenement Museum

Explore the immigrant story of New York through guided tours.
Short walk from Katz’s.
USD30, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Stroll through Washington Square Park

Relax in this iconic park while people-watching and enjoying street performances.
Short walk from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at L'Artusi

Indulge in delicious Italian dishes with modern flair.
Taxi to the West Village.
USD80, 2 hours

7:00PM

Live Music at Blue Note

Enjoy an evening of amazing jazz music at the iconic Blue Note club.
Short taxi ride to the venue.
USD40, 2.5 hours
Find Hotels in New York

Day 12: Final Day Highlights

New York, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien

Enjoy organic and locally sourced breakfast options at this beloved chain.
Take the subway to Chelsea.
USD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Chelsea Market

Explore this vibrant food hall and market for last-minute shopping and snacks.
Short walk from the café.
Free (shopping costs vary), 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore the Meatpacking District

Experience the trendy Meatpacking District, with boutiques and galleries.
5-minute walk from Chelsea Market.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Standard Grill

Dine al fresco with stunning views at this stylish eatery.
Short walk from the district.
USD40, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Whitney Museum

Explore American art and exhibitions in this contemporary museum.
Short walk from The Standard Grill.
USD25, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Tao

Celebrate your trip with a lavish dinner at this Asian fusion restaurant.
Short walk from the Whitney Museum.
USD100, 2 hours

7:00PM

Evening Views at One World Observatory

End your incredible New York adventure with breathtaking views from One World Observatory.
Subway back to downtown.
USD38, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in New York
0

More About new york

Trip Packing List: New York (Feb 27–early March 2026)
Packing List
Trip Packing List: New York City (May 27 – June 2)
Packing List
New York City Weather & Climate: A Year-Round Local Guide
Weather Guide
Full Guide to Michelin Star Cities: 2025 Updated List
Travel Expert
Global Michelin Cities & US Travel Tiers from New York
Travel Expert
Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Plan Your new york Trip

Cost Estimator
Estimate your trip budget
Packing List
Get a custom checklist
Weather Expert
Check weather & best time to go