Quick answer
For a first visit to New York, plan about five days. Day one: Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island ferry, Battery Park, Wall Street. From there, build in Central Park and Empire State Building, and leave time for the food.
Going deeper?
A 5-day New York itinerary
- Day1
Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island ferry, Battery Park, Wall Street.
- Day2
Central Park, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Fifth Avenue.
- Day3
Times Square, a Broadway show, Rockefeller Center.
- Day4
Brooklyn Bridge walk, DUMBO, the Brooklyn waterfront.
- Day5
9/11 Memorial, the High Line, Chelsea Market.
Where to eat in New York
- Breakfast
- Katz's Delicatessen — pastrami since 1888
- Lunch
- Chelsea Market food stalls
- Dinner
- Peter Luger — legendary Brooklyn steakhouse
Top sights
- Statue of Liberty
- Central Park
- Empire State Building
- Brooklyn Bridge
Shopping
- Fifth Avenue
- SoHo boutiques
- Chelsea Market
New York FAQ
How many days do you need in New York?
Five days covers New York's highlights at a comfortable pace — start with Statue of Liberty and Central Park, then use the remaining days for neighborhoods, food and a day trip. Gigi adjusts the plan to your interests and how you like to travel.
What are the must-see sights in New York?
Well-known highlights include Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge. Booking timed entries or a private guide for the busiest sights saves hours in lines.
Where should you shop in New York?
Popular shopping stops include Fifth Avenue, SoHo boutiques, Chelsea Market. Hours and seasonal closures vary, so confirm before you go.
General reference, not Gigi's personally vetted picks — a starting point built from well-known, long-standing places. Hours, prices and openings change; she'll confirm and personalize everything before you go.