3 Days in New York City: The Ultimate New York Itinerary

Wondering what to see in 3 days in New York? You’re in the right place! Nearly everyone dreams of visiting this amazing city.

New York is bursting with energy, rich culture, and diversity. It’s no surprise that the Big Apple is known for its superlatives.

You’ll find iconic skyscrapers, some of the largest museums, and some of the most expensive streets in the world. Whether you’re into art or food, you won’t be disappointed.

I’ve put together a fantastic sightseeing itinerary just for you. You’ll find out how to make the most of your 3 days in New York, plus lots of other helpful info.

Ready to get inspired? Let’s dive in!

Day 1 of 3 Days in New York City

Sightseeing Route

Grand Central Terminal

As you start your Big Apple adventure, begin by exploring Manhattan, one of New York’s most famous—and expensive—areas.

Here, you’ll find iconic landmarks that many people, especially Europeans, associate with the city, like the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, and Rockefeller Center.

Your first stop should be Grand Central Terminal at 42nd Street and Park Avenue.

This landmark is one of the world’s busiest tourist spots, with foot traffic second only to a couple of other terminals in North America.

Built over a century ago, it features stunning architecture and grandeur.

The main hall is the most popular part, often seen in American films. Don’t miss the food court on a lower level, where you can enjoy a variety of local treats.

Uncle Paul’s Pizza NY

While you’re spending 3 days in New York, make sure to hit up a local pizzeria.

After checking out Grand Central Terminal and its market, head over to Uncle Paul’s Pizza NY, just around the corner. They serve up authentic New York-style pizza with crispy edges and a thin crust.

New York pizza has a rich history, starting back in the late 19th century when Italian immigrants began making it here.

Although the first pizzeria opened in 1905, pizza only became really popular after World War II. The secret? New York City’s mineral-rich tap water.

At Uncle Paul’s Pizza, you’ll find all sorts of flavors and toppings, from pepperoni and Neapolitan to Sicilian, Caprese, and Marinara. A big slice will set you back about five dollars.

We tried several varieties: pepperoni, classic Margherita, the house specialty Grandma pizza, and the Marinara, which is a New York favorite (named for its popularity with sailors).

All the pizzas were delicious and definitely different from what you’d find in Italy. Don’t miss out on trying them during your 3 days in New York!

Fifth Avenue

Another must-see on your first day in New York is Fifth Avenue, known as one of the most elegant and expensive streets in the world.

Once the go-to neighborhood for wealthy New Yorkers, it’s now one of the top shopping spots globally, featuring high-end boutiques from brands like Gucci, Prada, Versace, Tiffany, and Louis Vuitton.

As you walk down Fifth Avenue, you’ll also see iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building with its distinctive art deco spire and the Rockefeller Center.

However, we have to admit that Fifth Avenue didn’t quite impress us. Maybe it’s because we’re not into luxury shopping or huge crowds. Still, it’s worth a leisurely stroll to see it for yourself.

3 Days in New York City: Flatiron Building

Another must-see during your 3 days in New York is the Flatiron Building. Built in the early 20th century, it’s named for its unique shape that resembles a flatiron.

With its triangular silhouette, the Flatiron has become one of the Big Apple’s most iconic landmarks and is definitely one of the city’s most photographed spots.

We have to admit, it looks pretty amazing in photos—just try to avoid getting someone unexpectedly stepping into your shot!

The best views of the Flatiron Building are from the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Broadway Street. It’s a spot you definitely don’t want to miss on your trip to the city!

Madison Square Park & Shake Shack

After checking out the Flatiron Building, head over to the nearby Madison Square Park, named after the fourth President of the United States.

It’s a perfect spot to take a break from sightseeing, relax in nature, and enjoy the impressive skyline.

While you’re in the area, treat yourself to an authentic New York burger at one of the city’s favorite spots, Shake Shack.

We first heard about Shake Shack from our favorite “prison” series (Orange Is the New Black) and were curious to see what the fuss was all about.

We tried their house specialty, the spicy Smoke Shack burger, and it was packed with flavor.

The bun wasn’t quite what we expected—it had a chewy texture similar to McDonald’s buns—but overall, we were pretty impressed!

Cathedral of St. Patrick

After lunch at Madison Square Park, head over to St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the largest neo-Gothic cathedral in North America.

It really stands out among the modern skyscrapers, including the Rockefeller Center. The nearly 150-year-old cathedral makes a big impression, partly because its style is a bit like the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, which we love.

As Poles, we were also touched by the bust of Pope John Paul II at the back of the cathedral, marking his visit to New York.

3 Days in New York City: Central Park

No trip to New York is complete without a stroll through the city’s green oasis, Central Park.

Back in the day, this area was home to escaped slaves and Irish immigrants and was filled with rocky outcrops and marshlands.

Today, Central Park is a beloved escape for everyone in New York, no matter their background or budget.

With its English-style design, it covers almost 350 acres and is home to 26,000 trees. Given its size, it’s no surprise that it took a remarkable 15 years to build!

Divided into three distinct sections, Central Park offers a range of attractions, from peaceful ponds and rolling hills to winding paths, playgrounds, iconic monuments, and even the Central Park Zoo.

It’s also worth mentioning the park’s cinematic fame—over ten films are shot here every day, including our nostalgic favorite, “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York”.

These features make Central Park the most visited urban park in the United States.

We were especially taken with the views that blend the park’s natural calm with the towering skyscrapers, highlighting our spot in one of the world’s greatest metropolises.

A visit to Central Park is a must during any city trip! Just don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes—your feet will thank you!

Upper East Side

The second-to-last spot you should check out on your first day in New York is the neighborhood between Central Parkand the East River—the Upper East Side.

Once known as the “silk stocking district,” it’s now one of the city’s wealthiest areas.

Historically, influential families like the Rockefellers, Roosevelts, and Kennedys lived here. Nowadays, it’s rumored that celebrities like Lady Gaga and Woody Allen have apartments in the area.

With its beautiful, elegant townhouses and unique character, a stroll through the Upper East Side is a must. We discovered this area while searching for a subway station and were pleasantly surprised by its charm.

While you’re exploring, don’t miss the chance to visit the oldest and largest museum in the U.S.—the Metropolitan Museum of Art (MoMA), which has a permanent collection of over two million exhibits!

Momosan Ramen & Sake

Wrap up your first day in New York with a meal at the stylish Japanese spot, Momosan Ramen & Sake, on Lexington Avenue.

As the name suggests, this place focuses on ramen, featuring broth, noodles, and a variety of toppings based on your taste.

Definitely try the tsukemen, a fun twist on traditional ramen where the broth and noodles are served separately, so you dip the noodles and toppings into the flavorful broth with chopsticks.

As fans of Asian cuisine, we really enjoyed the umami–packed flavors. This spot is a must-visit for anyone who loves Far Eastern dishes. And don’t forget to leave a tip!

Day 2 of 3 Days in New York City

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Sightseeing Route

Zucker’s

Start your second day in New York with a visit to Zucker’s, a breakfast spot known for its amazing bagels.

We tried their signature sandwiches: the Flatiron (a bagel with salmon and creamy avocado spread) and the classic Reuben (a bagel with pastrami, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and dressing), both served with a side salad.

Both sandwiches were fantastic; the meat and cheese were so flavorful, and when combined with the savory bagel, it was an irresistible treat.

We loved it so much that we came back the next day for another leisurely breakfast. If you’re a fan of hot sandwiches and great coffee, Zucker’s is a must-visit during your 3 days in New York!

3 Days in New York City: Wall Street

After breakfast, make your way to the nearest subway station, Grand Central Terminal, and hop on the green line to get to Lower Manhattan, where you’ll find the famous Wall Street.

This area is home to some of the world’s biggest stock exchanges, including the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ.

We were really impressed by the architecture of the NYSE building, as well as the historic Federal Hall and the towering skyscrapers at 14 and 40 Wall Street.

If you get here early in the morning, you’ll see fewer tourists and more stylish businesspeople rushing off to work.

Battery Park & Statue of Liberty

After a quick stroll on Wall Street, head over to Battery Park, where you can catch ferries to Liberty Island, home of the Statue of Liberty.

Ferries leave every 30 minutes from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM, so keep that in mind when planning your visit. You can find more details and ticket prices on their website.

Even if you’re not planning to visit Liberty Island, Battery Park is worth a stop. Take a leisurely walk along the well-kept promenade and enjoy the fresh air.

Battery Park got its name from a former artillery battery, and one of its highlights is Fort Clinton, which was the first immigration center in the U.S.

We loved the peaceful view of the bay from one of the many benches. It’s the perfect spot for a little break during your sightseeing!

3 Days in New York City: Monument & Museum 9/11

Next on your New York itinerary is the 9/11 Memorial, which honors nearly 3,000 victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

Located on the former World Trade Center site, the memorial covers about 16 acres. Instead of the old twin towers, you’ll find two impressive cascading fountains.

The names of everyone who lost their lives in the attack are engraved on the stone panels around the fountains. This site made a strong impression on us and is definitely worth a visit on any trip to the city.

If you have time, the museum within the memorial complex is also worth checking out, though we didn’t get a chance to visit it during our stay.

Banter Cafe

Carrie Bradshaw Apartment

If you’re in West Village, make sure to check out the apartment where Carrie Bradshaw lived in the iconic TV series Sex and the City.

While the show suggests Carrie resides in the Upper East Side, the actual filming location is a charming brownstone at 64 and later 66 Perry Street, right in West Village.

For any fan of the series, this spot is a must-see!

3 Days in New York City: High Line

Another must-see destination in New York is the beloved High Line Park, a favorite among both locals and tourists, elevated high above the city streets.

Originally built on old railway tracks used for transporting goods, this park stretches about 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles) and has become a popular spot for relaxation and recreation.

The High Line often hosts cultural events, sports activities, and intriguing installations. Yet, one of its standout features is the expansive views it offers over the Hudson River and western Manhattan.

During our visit, the park was quite crowded, which made it hard to fully enjoy its beauty. To avoid the crowds, consider going early in the morning or in the evening.

For more details, including opening hours, check out this link.

Chelsea Market

After checking out the High Line, head over to Chelsea Market, just a short walk away. It’s a great spot to dive into a variety of global cuisines all under one roof. This place is a foodie paradise with options for every taste.

You can grab everything from tasty Mexican tacos and classic American hot dogs to flavorful Thai curries, authentic Japanese sushi, and fresh seafood.

Don’t miss out on the tacos from Los Tacos No. 1 (they’re said to be some of the best in the city) and the hot dogs from Dickson’s Farmstand, even if there’s a bit of a wait!

You can check out all the food stalls at Chelsea Market here.

Dumbo District

After exploring Chelsea Market, head over to the 14th Street/Eighth Avenue subway station and catch the blue line to cross the East River into Brooklyn. Your next stop is the trendy neighborhood of Dumbo.

Once an industrial hotspot, Dumbo is now filled with chic boutiques, restaurants, cafes, and converted art spaces, as well as some of the city’s priciest lofts.

While you’re there, don’t miss Main Street Park. It offers a fantastic view of the Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan skyline, and is particularly stunning at sunrise and sunset.

Grimaldi’s Pizzeria

If you’re a fan of New York-style pizza like we are, you absolutely must check out Grimaldi’s in Dumbo. It’s famous for its coal-fired oven pizza, considered some of the best in Brooklyn.

Their menu features a wide range of pizzas and toppings, so you can create your perfect pie.

We opted for a huge classic pizza with tomato sauce, mozzarella, basil, pepperoni, and olives, all at a great price.

It had been a while since we tackled such a big pizza, but we enjoyed every bite. Highly recommended!

Brooklyn Bridge

After lunch, head over to one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks—the Brooklyn Bridge, which links Brooklyn and Manhattan.

Completed in the late 19th century, it’s one of the oldest suspension bridges in the world.

Designed in a neo-Gothic style, the bridge stretches nearly two kilometers (6,016 feet). It’s perfect for a leisurely walk, giving you the chance to enjoy stunning views along the way.

Chinatown

After crossing the bridge, head over to Manhattan’s Chinatown, a vibrant area full of colorful neon lights.

Interestingly, this neighborhood is known for having the largest Chinese population in the entire Western Hemisphere.

Stroll through the lively streets lined with numerous stalls and souvenir shops. Take your time to check out the vendors and their unique items as you continue exploring.

Little Italy

Next on your list should be Little Italy, just a short walk away and once a vibrant neighborhood of Italian immigrants.

Now, it mainly attracts tourists looking for authentic Italian restaurants and cafes.

If you’re in the mood for great wine or aromatic coffee, be sure to visit the charming Gelso & Grand restaurant. We highly recommend it!

Luke’s Lobster

If you’re in the mood for a treat, consider heading to Luke’s Lobster in the evening, a place famous for its iconic lobster roll.

As you’d expect, this sandwich is packed with juicy lobster meat, served in a buttery, crispy bun with mayo and salad.

We tried their signature lobster roll, and it did not disappoint! The lobster meat was tender and flavorful, pairing perfectly with the buttery bun. It’s definitely a must-try when you’re in New York!

Times Square

Wrap up your second day in New York by checking out the iconic Times Square, with its dazzling billboards lighting up the busy streets.

This famous spot is known for hosting one of the world’s largest New Year’s Eve celebrations, attracting nearly a million people each year.

While our expectations were a bit let down and it didn’t quite match up to its TV portrayal, it’s still worth a visit. It’s a place where you can make your own impressions and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Day 3 of 3 Days in New York City

Sightseeing Route

Magnolia Bakery

On your final day in New York, follow in the footsteps of Carrie and Miranda from “Sex and the City” to the famed Magnolia Bakery, a city favorite.

This spot offers a variety of American baked goods and charms visitors with its stylish vintage decor and friendly service.

While seating options are limited, you can enjoy your treats like New York cheesecakes with tempting flavors like Red Velvet and Vanilla Bean.

We recommend relaxing at the luxurious Lotte New York Palace hotel nearby. Its garden is a perfect place to enjoy coffee and desserts while taking in a lovely view of St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

3 Days in New York City: Top of The Rock

After enjoying treats at the bakery, your day’s main highlight awaits: a visit to the iconic Top of The Rock, offering stunning views of the city skyline.

Top of The Rock is a popular observation deck atop the GE Building in Rockefeller Center.

To skip the long lines, it’s best to buy tickets in advance through the official website, selecting your preferred date and time.

While the entrance fee might be high, the experience is definitely worth it. The high-speed elevator, styled like a futuristic spacecraft, whisks you up to the 70th floor.

At the three-tiered, glass-enclosed terrace, on a clear day, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the city, straight out of a classic New York postcard.

Even though our visit was on a misty day, which blurred some of the views, we treasure the experience and proudly display our photos of New York City from Top of The Rock.

Bryant Park

After exploring the rooftops of Manhattan, head to another green retreat in the city—Bryant Park, located next to the New York Public Library.

Stretching between 5th and 6th Avenue and 40th and 42nd Street, Bryant Park, once overlooked, has become a favorite spot for New Yorkers.

A walk through the park reveals its charm. With various activities and events (which you can check out on the official website), Bryant Park has something for everyone.

You’ll also find a range of food stalls offering tasty treats and a lovely café. It’s definitely worth a stop to relax and enjoy a break from your sightseeing!

New York Public Library

While you’re at Bryant Park, take a moment to visit the New York Public Library, a 19th-century gem and one of the largest libraries in the world.

Although only a small part of the library is open to the public, you can still marvel at the stunning multi-story reading room.

It’s an impressive sight, and we can’t help but feel a bit envious of the locals who get to enjoy such a magnificent space every day.

Royal 35 Steakhouse

While in New York, indulging in the city’s famed steaks is a must. For a top-notch experience, we highly recommend Royal 35 Steakhouse.

This elegant spot is renowned for its premium USDA Prime beef, aged for about 30-35 days.

You can savor a hefty sirloin steak (Prime New York Strip Steak), weighing nearly 2.2 pounds (1 kilogram), cooked exactly how you like it.

The price might be steep, but the melt-in-your-mouth quality of the meat makes it worth every penny. In fact, this was one of the best steaks we’ve ever had. Pair it with a fine red wine for a truly unforgettable New York dining experience.

For steak aficionados, Royal 35 Steakhouse is a must-visit!

Where to Stay in New York City?

If you’re on the hunt for an affordable yet stylish hotel in New York City, Hotel Pod 39 is worth considering. We personally stayed at this hotel and really enjoyed it. 

Situated in the vibrant Murray Hill neighborhood, known for its green spaces, charming brownstones, and a wide array of pubs and cafes, it’s an ideal spot for budget-conscious travelers.

While the rooms are compact (about 140 square feet), they’re well-equipped with essential amenities for a city stay, including a comfy bed, a spacious shower, hangers, a desk, and a chair.

The hotel doesn’t offer dedicated luggage storage or include breakfast in the rate, but this shouldn’t be a major issue if you plan to explore local dining options.

In addition to its affordable rates and great location, Hotel Pod 39 features stylish communal areas and a rooftop bar where you can enjoy drinks and lovely city views.

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3 Days in New York City: Conclusions

During a three-day stay in New York City, you’ll have the chance to explore its countless attractions.

From wandering through iconic streets and squares to visiting famous movie spots and enjoying local delicacies at great restaurants, there’s something for everyone.

These experiences turn New York into more than just a travel destination; they make it an unforgettable adventure you’ll remember for years to come.

If you enjoyed this travel guide to New York City, feel free to share it with your friends!

If you’ve already been to New York, we’d love to hear your recommendations for attractions in the comments below!

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