Maximizing 3 Days in New York: Your Ultimate Itinerary Guide

Are you wondering what to see in 3 days in New York? You’ve come to the right place! There’s hardly anyone who hasn’t dreamed of visiting this extraordinary city.

This vibrant metropolis beckons with incredible energy, fascinating culture, and rich diversity. It’s no wonder that the Big Apple (as it’s often called) is a city of superlatives.

Here, you’ll find iconic skyscrapers, some of the largest museums, and the most expensive streets in the world. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a foodie, you certainly won’t be disappointed.

Especially for you, I’ve crafted an excellent sightseeing itinerary for this inspiring city. You’ll discover how to make the most of your 3 days in New York, along with plenty of other useful information.

I hope this guide to New York inspires you to plan your next journey!

Day 1 of 3 Days in New York City

Sightseeing Route

Grand Central Terminal

Embarking on your Big Apple adventure, it’s worthwhile to start by exploring the central district of one of the most renowned and simultaneously expensive areas of New York – Manhattan.

This is where you’ll encounter numerous iconic buildings that Europeans, in particular, closely associate with the city, such as the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, and Rockefeller Center.

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

This landmark is reputedly one of the world’s most frequented tourist attractions, second in foot traffic only to two other terminals in North America.

Constructed over a century ago, the current structure boasts grandeur and impressive architectural design.

The main hall is undoubtedly the most popular and aesthetically pleasing part of the terminal, having served as a backdrop in countless American films.

We also enjoyed the food court located on a lower level, where you can indulge in a variety of local delicacies.

Uncle Paul’s Pizza NY

While spending 3 days in New York, it’s essential to pay a visit to one of the local pizzerias.

After exploring Grand Central Terminal and its adjoining market, make your way to Uncle Paul’s Pizza NY, located right nearby, for an authentic taste of New York-style pizza with crispy edges and a thin crust.

The tradition of New York pizza dates back to the late nineteenth century when Italian immigrants who settled here began crafting it.

Although the first pizzeria in the country opened as early as 1905, pizza gained its popularity only after World War II, with the reportedly mineral-rich tap water of New York City remaining its secret ingredient to this day.

At Uncle Paul’s Pizza, much like in any typical New York pizzeria, you’ll find a variety of flavors and toppings, including pepperoni, Neapolitan, Sicilian, Caprese, or Marinara, with a sizable slice costing around five dollars.

From the menu, we opted to try the following: pepperoni pizza, classic Margherita, the house specialty Grandma pizza, and supposedly the favorite pizza of New Yorkers – the Marinara (named for its popularity among sailors).

All varieties of pizza were delectable and undoubtedly distinct from those served in Italy. You simply must give them a try during your 3 days in New York!

Fifth Avenue

Another must-visit destination on your first day in New York is the renowned Fifth Avenue, often touted as one of the most elegant and expensive streets in the world.

Once the favored residential enclave of affluent New Yorkers, it has evolved into one of the globe’s premier shopping districts, boasting boutiques of prestigious brands like Gucci, Prada, Versace, Tiffany, and Louis Vuitton.

Among the iconic landmarks lining Fifth Avenue, architectural marvels such as the Empire State Building (with its distinctive art deco spire) and the Rockefeller Center stand out.

However, we must confess that Fifth Avenue didn’t quite leave a positive impression on us. Perhaps it’s because we’re not fond of luxury and bustling crowds. Nevertheless, it’s certainly worth taking a leisurely stroll to form your own perspective.

3 Days in New York City: Flatiron Building

The next fascinating landmark you simply must see during your 3 days in New York is the Flatiron Building, constructed at the beginning of the 20th century and named for its graceful name and distinctive shape.

Thanks to its triangular silhouette, resembling somewhat of a flatiron, this building has become one of the most iconic symbols of the Big Apple and is arguably one of the city’s most frequently photographed attractions.

We must admit, it does indeed look quite impressive in photos, provided that no one unexpectedly steps into the frame.

In our opinion, the best views of the Flatiron Building are captured from the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Broadway Street. It’s an absolute must-visit spot during any trip to the city!

Madison Square Park & Shake Shack

After exploring the Flatiron Building, make your way to the nearby Madison Square Park, named after the fourth President of the United States.

It’s a great idea to take a break here between intense sightseeing sessions, allowing yourself to relax amidst nature while taking in the impressive skyline.

While you’re in the area, why not treat yourself to an authentic New York burger at one of the city’s most popular spots, Shake Shack?

We have to admit, we first heard about this eatery from one of our favorite “prison” series (Orange Is the New Black), and thanks to its main character, we decided to see what all the hype was about.

We opted for the house specialty, the spicy Smoke Shack burger, which turned out to be incredibly flavorful.

While the bun didn’t quite meet our expectations, as its chewy texture reminded us somewhat of those served at McDonald’s, overall, we were impressed!

Cathedral of St. Patrick

After enjoying lunch at Madison Square Park, make your way to the largest neo-Gothic cathedral in North America, St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

We have to admit that amidst the modern skyscrapers (including the Rockefeller Center), this nearly 150-year-old cathedral leaves a significant impression.

Perhaps it’s because its style somewhat resembles the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, to which we hold a special fondness.

As Poles, we’re also drawn to the bust of Pope John Paul II located at the back of the cathedral, commemorating his visit to this city.

3 Days in New York City: Central Park

Certainly, no visit to New York would be complete during your 3 days in the city without a leisurely stroll through the city’s verdant sanctuary, the renowned Central Park.

Historically, it’s been said that this area was once inhabited by escaped slaves and Irish immigrants, with the landscape characterized by rocky outcrops and marshlands.

Today, Central Park stands as a cherished retreat for all New Yorkers, irrespective of their origins or financial means. Embracing an English-style design, it sprawls across nearly 350 hectares and boasts a canopy of 26,000 trees. Given such scale, it’s no wonder that its construction spanned a remarkable 15 years!

Divided into three distinct sections, the park hosts a myriad of attractions, including tranquil ponds, rolling hills, meandering footpaths, recreational playgrounds, iconic monuments, and even the Central Park Zoo.

It’s hardly necessary to mention the park’s cinematic prominence – with an average of over ten films shot daily within its bounds, including our nostalgic favorite, “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York.”

All these elements contribute to Central Park’s distinction as the most frequented urban park in the United States.

We were particularly enamored with the vistas that juxtapose the park’s natural serenity with the towering skyscrapers, serving as a poignant reminder of our presence in one of the world’s greatest metropolises.

A visit to Central Park is unequivocally essential during any sojourn in the city! Just remember to don comfortable footwear – your feet will undoubtedly appreciate the consideration!

Upper East Side

The second-to-last place worth visiting on your first day in New York is the neighborhood nestled between Central Park and the East River – the Upper East Side.

Once dubbed the “silk stocking district,” it now stands as one of the city’s most affluent areas.

Historically, influential families like the Rockefellers, Roosevelts, and Kennedys called this neighborhood home. Today, it’s rumored that celebrities such as Lady Gaga and Woody Allen own apartments here.

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

While exploring the Upper East Side, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the oldest and largest museum in the United States – the Metropolitan Museum of Art (MoMA), which boasts a permanent collection of over two million exhibits!

Momosan Ramen & Sake

Conclude your first day in New York with a visit to the elegant Japanese restaurant Momosan Ramen & Sake, located on Lexington Avenue.

True to its name, this establishment specializes primarily in ramen dishes, comprising broth, noodles, and various toppings depending on your preference. Be sure to try the dish known as tsukemen, which offers a unique twist on traditional ramen.

In this variation, the components of ramen are served deconstructed – the flavorful broth is presented separately in a bowl, allowing you to dip the noodles and toppings using chopsticks.

As enthusiasts of Asian cuisine, we must confess that we particularly relish such flavor combinations, enhanced by a pronounced umami essence.

This venue is unquestionably a must-visit for aficionados of Far Eastern flavors. Just remember to leave a tip!

Day 2 of 3 Days in New York City

Sightseeing Route

Zucker’s

Kick off your second day in New York with a visit to Zucker’s – a breakfast haven celebrated for its specialty: bagels served in a variety of delicious ways.

We indulged in their signature sandwiches, accompanied by a side salad: the Flatiron (a bagel with salmon and creamy avocado spread) and the iconic Reuben (a bagel with pastrami, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and dressing).

Both sandwiches were a delight; the meat and cheese melted in our mouths, and when paired with the savory bagel, they created an even more delectable combination.

We enjoyed the experience so much that we decided to return the next day for another leisurely breakfast. For lovers of hot sandwiches and excellent coffee, this place is a must-visit during your 3 days in New York!

3 Days in New York City: Wall Street

After enjoying breakfast, head to the nearest subway station, Grand Central Terminal, where you can catch the green line to reach the main financial district of Lower Manhattan, home to the famous Wall Street.

This is where some of the largest stock exchanges in the world are located, including the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ.

What impressed us the most was the architecture of the NYSE building, as well as the 19th-century Federal Hall and the imposing skyscrapers at 14 and 40 Wall Street.

If you arrive here early enough in the morning, you won’t encounter too many tourists but rather elegant businessmen rushing to work.

Battery Park & Statue of Liberty

After a brief stroll on Wall Street, make your way to Battery Park, where ferries depart for the nearby island housing the Statue of Liberty – Liberty Island.

Ferries depart every 30 minutes from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM, so keep this schedule in mind when planning your visit. More information, including ticket prices, can be found on this website.

Even if you don’t plan to visit Liberty Island, Battery Park is still worth a visit. Take a leisurely walk along the well-maintained promenade and enjoy the fresh air.

Battery Park derives its name from the former artillery battery located here, and one of its main attractions is Fort Clinton, which once served as the first immigration center in the United States.

However, what truly captivated us about this place was the serene view of the bay, admired from one of the numerous benches. It’s the perfect spot for a brief rest during your sightseeing adventure!

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

The next place worth visiting in New York is the 9/11 Memorial – a monument commemorating nearly 3,000 victims who perished in the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.

The memorial was constructed on the former World Trade Center site and spans approximately 16 acres. Instead of the twin towers that once stood there, visitors now encounter two impressive cascading fountains.

On the stone panels surrounding the fountains, the names of all the individuals who lost their lives in the attack are inscribed. This site left an indelible impression on us, and we consider it a must-see on every trip to the city.

It’s also worth visiting the museum within the complex, although unfortunately, we didn’t have enough time for it during our visit.

Banter Cafe

If you’re feeling hungry, make sure to head to Banter, a café located in West Village, for a second breakfast.

On your way, you’ll pass through two famous artistic districts of the city: TriBeCa and SoHo, which attract both tourists and locals with their unique atmosphere and trendy boutiques and restaurants.

Even if you don’t plan on doing any shopping, it’s worth strolling through them just to feel like a fashionable city resident for a moment.

Banter café specializes mainly in brunches. It’s worth indulging in their French toast with nuts, strawberries, and maple syrup, as well as homemade granola. Add a cup of aromatic coffee, and you’ve got the recipe for a satisfying meal!

Carrie Bradshaw Apartment

If you’re in West Village, you can’t miss the chance to see the apartment that belonged to Carrie Bradshaw in the iconic TV series “Sex and the City.”

Although the storyline depicts the main character living in the affluent Upper East Side neighborhood, in reality, the scenes were filmed elsewhere – in front of a stylish brownstone located at 64, and later 66 Perry Street, right in West Village.

For fans of the series, this is definitely a must-visit spot!

3 Days in New York City: High Line

Another must-see destination in New York is the beloved High Line Park, adored by both locals and tourists alike, suspended high above the city streets.

This park has an intriguing origin – it was built on the former railway tracks that once transported goods into the city. Stretching approximately 2.5 kilometers, it has become a cherished spot for relaxation and recreation among New Yorkers.

The park hosts numerous cultural events and sports activities, occasionally featuring various intriguing installations.

However, in our opinion, one of the park’s greatest features, besides its verdant greenery, is undoubtedly the expansive views it offers, spanning across the Hudson River and the entirety of western Manhattan. Unfortunately, during our visit, the park was bustling with visitors, making it challenging to fully appreciate its beauty.

Therefore, if you plan to visit during peak season, it’s advisable to do so early in the morning or in the evening to avoid the crowds.

You can find more information about the park, including opening hours, here.

Chelsea Market

After exploring the High Line, make sure to visit the nearby Chelsea Market, where you can indulge in a diverse range of cuisines from around the world, all conveniently located under one roof.

This destination is a culinary haven, appealing to food enthusiasts of every palate.

Here, you’ll discover everything from quick street fare like delicious Mexican tacos and classic American hot dogs, to flavorful Thai curries, authentic Japanese sushi, and exquisite seafood dishes.

Be sure to sample the acclaimed tacos from Los Tacos No. 1 (rumored to be among the city’s best) and the hot dogs from Dickson’s Farmstand, even if you encounter long queues!

You can find the complete list of food stalls at Chelsea Market here.

3 Days in New York City: Dumbo District

After exploring Chelsea Market, head to the nearby 14th Street/Eighth Avenue subway station, where you can catch the blue line to cross the East River to another popular part of New York: Brooklyn.

Your destination is a stroll through the fashionable, atmospheric neighborhood of Dumbo. Once a thriving industrial hub, it’s now home to numerous boutiques, restaurants, and cafes, along with converted industrial art spaces and some of the city’s most expensive loft apartments.

While you’re in the area, be sure to visit Main Street Park, offering a breathtaking view of the Brooklyn Bridge and the entire Manhattan skyline. This spot is said to be especially stunning at sunrise and sunset.

Grimaldi’s Pizzeria

If, like us, you’re fans of New York-style pizza, you absolutely must pay a visit to Grimaldi’s in Dumbo, which is reputed to serve the finest coal-fired oven pizza in all of Brooklyn.

Their menu offers a wide array of pizza types and toppings, allowing you to customize your ideal pizza combination.

We decided on a massive classic pizza featuring tomato sauce, mozzarella, basil, pepperoni, and olives, all at a reasonable price.

Admittedly, it’s been a while since we’ve tackled such a sizable pizza, but we rose to the occasion. Highly recommended!

3 Days in New York City: Brooklyn Bridge

After lunch, make your way towards one of New York City’s most iconic attractions – the renowned Brooklyn Bridge, which connects the boroughs of Brooklyn and Manhattan.

Construction of the bridge was completed in the late 19th century, rendering it one of the oldest suspension bridges worldwide.

Designed in the neo-Gothic style, the bridge spans nearly two kilometers! This distance is perfect for a leisurely stroll, affording you the opportunity to soak in the breathtaking views along the way.

Chinatown

After crossing the bridge, make your way towards Manhattan’s Chinatown, a lively district pulsating with colorful neon lights.

Fascinatingly, this neighborhood is said to host the largest gathering of Chinese residents in the entire Western Hemisphere.

Take a leisurely walk through the bustling streets filled with countless stalls and souvenir shops, observing the vendors and their unique merchandise up close before continuing your exploration.

Little Italy

The next destination worth exploring is Little Italy, situated nearby, once home to a plethora of Italian immigrants.

Today, it primarily draws tourists seeking authentic Italian eateries and cafes.

If you’re craving good wine or aromatic coffee, make sure to stop by the atmospheric Gelso & Grand restaurant, a place we wholeheartedly recommend.

Luke’s Lobster

If you’re up for it, consider an evening visit to Luke’s Lobster – a spot renowned for serving one of America’s most iconic sandwiches, the lobster roll.

As the name implies, this sandwich features juicy lobster meat, typically nestled in a crispy, buttery bun with mayo and salad.

We tried their signature dish, and it was worth it!

The lobster meat melted in our mouths, harmonizing perfectly with the buttery bun. When in New York, this is a must-try!

Times Square

Wrap up your second day in New York by experiencing the iconic Times Square, alive with vibrant billboards that illuminate the bustling streets.

This renowned location hosts one of the globe’s grandest New Year’s Eve celebrations each year, drawing in nearly a million attendees, including both locals and visitors.

Yet, it’s fair to say that our expectations were not fully met, and the spectacle didn’t quite live up to its portrayal on television.

Nonetheless, it remains a must-see destination, inviting you to form your own impressions and opinions.

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 her friend Miranda from “Sex and the City” to the renowned Magnolia Bakery, a beloved fixture of the city.

As you might expect, this establishment offers a variety of American baked goods, enchanting its visitors with its stylish vintage decor and delightful service.

The only thing lacking for complete satisfaction is seating where you can savor your purchased delights, such as New York cheesecakes boasting tempting names like Red Velvet and Vanilla Bean.

We suggest taking a seat at the luxurious Lotte New York Palace hotel. Its adjacent garden is a perfect choice, providing not only a tranquil setting to enjoy coffee and desserts but also a splendid view of the nearby St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

3 Days in New York City: Top of The Rock

After indulging in treats at the bakery, the day’s main event awaits you – a visit to the iconic Top of The Rock, offering breathtaking views of the city skyline.

Top of The Rock is a popular observation deck perched atop the GE Building in Rockefeller Center, New York City.

To avoid lengthy queues, it’s advisable to purchase tickets for Top of The Rock in advance, specifying your preferred date and time, through the official website.

While the entrance fee to the observation deck may be steep, the experience is well worth it. The high-speed elevator, resembling a futuristic spacecraft, swiftly transports you to the summit of the 70-story building.

Upon arrival at the three-tiered, glass-enclosed terrace, on a clear day, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the entire cityscape, reminiscent of a classic New York postcard.

Despite encountering less-than-perfect weather during our visit, which obscured some of the views in mist, we cherish the memory and proudly display photos of New York City taken from Top of The Rock on our living room wall.

Bryant Park

After exploring the rooftops of Manhattan, venture to another green haven within the city – Bryant Park, nestled adjacent to the New York Public Library.

Spanning between 5th and 6th Avenue, and 40th and 42nd Street, Bryant Park, once neglected, has transformed into a cherished leisure destination for New Yorkers.

A leisurely stroll through this park reveals its unique allure. Hosting numerous engaging activities and events (worth checking out on the official website), Bryant Park offers something for everyone.

Moreover, you’ll find an array of food stalls offering delectable treats and a charming restaurant-café. It’s certainly worth a visit, if only to take a moment to unwind amidst your sightseeing adventures.

New York Public Library

While at Bryant Park, consider visiting the 19th-century building of the New York Public Library, one of the largest in the world, and take a leisurely stroll among its shelves.

Although only a small portion of the library is open to visitors, you can still admire its most splendid room – the multi-story reading room.

We must acknowledge that it leaves quite an impact, and we can’t help but feel a tad envious of the locals who have the privilege of enjoying such a magnificent space every day.

Royal 35 Steakhouse

While in New York, it’s essential to indulge in the globally renowned New York steaks. That’s why we highly recommend the elegant Royal 35 Steakhouse as our final suggestion.

This establishment is celebrated for its top-tier beef, certified USDA Prime and aged for approximately 30-35 days.

Here, you can opt for a nearly kilogram (!) portion of sirloin steak (Prime New York Strip Steak) cooked to your preferred level of doneness.

Though the price may be high, it’s well worth the investment as the meat practically melts in your mouth. Pair it with a glass of exquisite red wine, and you have the recipe for a memorable New York dining experience.

For discerning steak enthusiasts, this establishment is a must-visit!

Where to Stay in New York City?

If you’re in search of an affordable yet stylish hotel in New York City, look no further than Hotel Pod 39.

Located in the heart of the Murray Hill neighborhood, renowned for its green spaces, quaint brownstones, and abundance of pubs and cafes, it’s the ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers.

While the rooms may be cozy (around 13 square meters), they come equipped with all the essential amenities for a short city stay – a comfortable bed, spacious shower, hangers, desk, and chair.

The only downside is the lack of dedicated luggage storage and breakfast included in the room rate. However, if you plan to dine out, this won’t pose a problem.

In addition to its attractive price point and superb location, the hotel boasts tastefully decorated communal areas.

Guests can also take advantage of the rooftop bar, where they can enjoy drinks outdoors while taking in charming city views.

3 Days in New York City: Conclusion

During a three-day stay in New York City, it’s worthwhile to explore the myriad attractions this extraordinary city has to offer.

From leisurely walks along iconic streets and squares to visiting renowned movie locations, and indulging in local delicacies at restaurants – there’s something to suit every taste.

All of these experiences make New York not just a destination, but also an unforgettable journey that will linger in the memory of every visitor for years to come.

If you found this travel guide to New York City enjoyable, please share it with your friends.

And if you’ve had the opportunity to visit New York already, we’d love to hear your recommendations for attractions in the comments below!