New York City Travel Guide

Very few cities can compete with New York's frenetic energy and creativity and the Big Apple remains one of the top urban travel destinations in the world. To visit New York City is to visit one of the most exciting and diverse man-made environments on earth, and travellers never seem to tire of this ever-changing metropolis. New York really is the city that never sleeps and nobody denies that it's endlessly stimulating.

Many arrive on business, but millions more travel on holiday to see the myriad famous sights, trawl the shopping streets, catch a show on Broadway, and soak up the incredible atmosphere. The Statue of Liberty memorably greets travellers just as she once greeted immigrants.

Among the towering skyscrapers, the oasis of Central Park promises some relief from the rat race. The celebrated nightlife beckons party animals, the restaurant scene delights foodies, and the endless supply of museums and galleries charms culture vultures.

Best time to visit New York City

Although the city is a year-round destination, the best time to travel to New York is in autumn, during September and October, when the days are mild and pleasant, without the high humidity of the spring and summer months, or the snow and freezing temperatures that occur in winter.

What to see in New York City

-Watch a show on Broadway, a joy for the whole family.

-Marvel at New York's skyline from the observation deck of the mighty Empire State Building.

-Enjoy all the quirky and iconic fare that the Museum of Modern Art has to offer.

-Pay tribute to the many victims of 9/11 at the World Trade Center.

What to do in New York City

-Wander Greenwich Village, a famously artistic New York neighbourhood.

-Explore the Metropolitan Museum of Art, home to one of the greatest art collections in the world.

-Take a ride on the Staten Island Ferry, one of the best ways to see the city.

-Skate on the scenic Trump Rink in Central Park.

Beyond New York City

Popular excursions include the funfairs of Coney Island, the natural splendour of Bear Mountain State Park, the Dia Art Foundation of Beacon, and the spooky literary joys of Tarrytown, all of which await travellers just beyond the city. The Metro-North Railway can be used to access many nearby towns and cities in New York.

Getting there

John F Kennedy International Airport, one of the world's major air travel hubs, is New York City's main airport, located 12 miles (20km) from downtown Manhattan. New York La Guardia Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport also serve the city.

Did you know?

-New York City is home to about 4,000 street food vendors.

-More than 250 feature films are shot on location in the city annually.

-The musicians who perform in the NYC Subway system go through a competitive audition process.