Magical 4-Day Christmas Itinerary in New York City

Day 1: Iconic Holiday Sights

Midtown Manhattan, New York, USA on December 22, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Bouchon Bakery

Start your day with fresh pastries and coffee at this renowned bakery inside Rockefeller Center to get festive in a cozy atmosphere.
USD15, 1h

10:00am

Visit Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

See the world-famous Christmas tree and enjoy the surrounding decorations and holiday displays open all day.
Free, 1h

11:30am

Top of the Rock Observation Deck

Enjoy spectacular views of the city and holiday spectacle from this observation deck, open 8am-12am.
USD40, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Carmine’s Italian Restaurant

Enjoy a family-style Italian meal at Carmine's in Times Square, perfect for refueling with hearty dishes during the Christmas hustle.
USD40, 1h30m

3:00pm

Stroll Fifth Avenue Holiday Windows

Walk along Fifth Avenue to admire the festive holiday window displays from stores like Saks, Bergdorf Goodman, and Macy’s.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Ice Skating at Bryant Park Winter Village

Skate for free on Bryant Park's rink surrounded by holiday shops and lights, open until 10pm. Skate rentals available for a fee.
Free (USD20 for skate rental), 1h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at The Smith

Dine at The Smith, a lively spot offering classic American cuisine with a warm holiday vibe near Bryant Park.
USD50, 1h30m
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Day 2: Lower Manhattan & Brooklyn

Lower Manhattan & Brooklyn, New York, USA on December 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Devoción Flatiron

Fuel up with fresh coffee and light breakfast in this trendy café known for its vibrant atmosphere.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

One World Observatory

Experience panoramic views from the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. Open 9am-9pm.
USD45, 1h30m

11:30am

Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum

Reflect at the powerful memorial pools and explore the museum’s exhibits to understand this pivotal history.
USD28, 2h

2:00pm

Lunch at Eataly Downtown

Taste authentic Italian dishes and shop Italian specialties at this elegant food market in the Financial District.
USD30, 1h

3:30pm

Walk Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO

Walk the iconic Brooklyn Bridge enjoying views of Manhattan, then explore DUMBO’s picturesque holiday lights and shops.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Cecconi’s Dumbo

Enjoy upscale Italian dining with stunning Manhattan skyline views, perfect for a festive dinner.
USD60, 1h30m
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Day 3: Central Park & Museums

Uptown Manhattan, New York, USA on December 24, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Sarabeth’s Central Park South

Start your day with a classic New York breakfast in a charming setting near Central Park.
USD25, 1h

10:00am

Central Park Winter Walk

Enjoy a serene stroll through Central Park, admiring the winter trees and hidden holiday decorations. Free access all day.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Visit The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Explore world-class art collections including special holiday exhibits open 10am-5pm.
USD30, 2h30m

3:30pm

Lunch at The Dining Room at The Met

Enjoy a refined lunch inside the Met, perfect for a festive break without leaving the museum.
USD40, 1h

5:00pm

Visit The Christmas Markets at Columbus Circle

Wander the holiday market with unique gifts, food, and seasonal cheer until 9pm daily.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Red Rooster Harlem

Celebrate the season with delicious Southern comfort food featuring live jazz, creating a lively Christmas Eve atmosphere.
USD50, 1h30m
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Day 4: Festive Elegance

Upper West Side, New York, USA on December 25, 2025

9:00am

Christmas Day Brunch at Good Enough to Eat

Enjoy a classic American brunch in a cozy and festive Upper West Side spot. Reservations recommended.
USD35, 1h30m

11:00am

Lincoln Center Holiday Tour

Take a special guided tour of this iconic arts complex, decorated beautifully for Christmas. Confirm holiday hours in advance.
USD20, 1h

1:00pm

Visit American Museum of Natural History

Explore holiday windows and the famous origami Christmas tree, open 10am-5:45pm on Christmas Day.
USD28, 2h

3:30pm

Relaxed Walk along Riverside Park

Enjoy a peaceful winter walk along the Hudson River, taking in local holiday decorations.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Milling Room

Conclude your trip with a farm-to-table dinner featuring seasonal ingredients and a warm, festive ambiance.
USD60, 1h30m
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