-
New York, United States
Day 1: Arrival, Financial District & Sunset Views
We landed at JFK and took the AirTrain to Howard Beach station (about 10-15 minutes). From there, we switched to the A subway line, which took us directly to our hotel in the Financial District in about 30 minutes. The total cost was around $12.75: $8.25 for the AirTrain and $2.75 for the subway (you can pay with your phone instead of buying the MetroCard). The trip was quick and easy, and a great way to start getting a feel for the city.
After checking in, we wasted no time and set out to explore the neighborhood on foot. First stop: the 9/11 Memorial. Such a powerful place, truly a must-see for anyone visiting NYC.
Then we made our way to Battery Park City, and here’s an insider tip: enter through the shopping mall, and you’ll find yourself right at the pier. From there, we were treated to the most stunning sunset view over the Hoboken skyline—so peaceful, so perfect, and totally off the beaten path. It’s definitely one of those “locals only” spots, and it was absolutely special.
To end the day, we grabbed a legendary slice at Joe’s Pizza—the kind of pizza that’s so New York, it should have its own zip code. A perfect ending to our first day in the city!
-
New York, United States of America
Day 2 – Breathtaking views, art, and sweet surprises
The day kicked off with breakfast at Liberty Bagels, right across from the famous Charging Bull. Then we headed to the One World Observatory: the view from the top is simply incredible, making you feel on top of the world.
Afterward, a quick walk took us to Battery Park, where we hopped on the Staten Island Ferry to admire the Statue of Liberty from afar—a free 25-minute ride offering stunning views of the bay.
In the afternoon, we visited the MoMA. While it didn’t particularly move us (but that’s a purely personal opinion), it’s so iconic that it’s definitely worth a visit. The museum’s collection is impressive, and the shop inside is absolutely amazing, with unique art-inspired souvenirs and gifts.
For a sweet break, we grabbed a treat at Dunkin' Donuts, fueling up for a stroll through Times Square with its neon lights and irresistible chaos.
The day ended with dinner at Le Relais de l'Entrecôte, where the steak with secret sauce and crispy fries made us forget we were in New York, but the taste reminded us that sometimes, it's worth indulging in a little luxury.
-
New York, United States of America
Day 3 – Bridges, parks, and a picture-perfect slice of Manhattan
We started the day with breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien, and from there we strolled through the Financial District, passing the New York Stock Exchange and the Fearless Girl statue, on our way to the iconic Brooklyn Bridge.
After snapping all the must-have photos, we crossed the bridge on foot and made our way to DUMBO, soaking in the view of the bridge framed by old brick buildings—classic NYC.
Then we hopped on the subway to the Upper East Side for a sweet second breakfast at Aux Merveilleux de Fred (those little treats are next-level delicious).
The afternoon was all about Central Park, where we wandered past some of its most famous spots before continuing down Fifth Avenue, stopping by the MET, the New York Public Library, and some truly iconic landmarks like the Chrysler Building and St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
After a stop at Magnolia Bakery, we wrapped up the day with a walk along Broadway, a peek inside Macy’s, and photo ops in front of the Empire State Building and Madison Square Garden.
For dinner, we kept it classic with Shake Shack—because after all that walking, a legendary burger was more than deserved.
-
New York, United States of America
Day 4 – Skyscraper thrills, city icons, a legendary lunch and an amazing sunset
We kicked off the day with a visit to Summit One Vanderbilt—and wow, what a view! Between the mirrored floors, the immersive light installations, and the sweeping panoramas over Manhattan, it’s not just an observation deck, it’s an experience. Definitely one of the most unique and thrilling ways to see the city from above.
Right next door, we stepped into the historic halls of Grand Central Terminal. Even if you’re not catching a train, the architecture alone is worth the visit—from the celestial ceiling to the bustling Main Concourse.
From there, we headed downtown for a relaxed stroll through Union Square and Washington Square Park—two very different vibes, both full of local energy and perfect for people-watching.
We recharged with a late lunch at Katz's Delicatessen, a true New York classic.
Of course, no NYC food day is complete without dessert, so we made a quick stop at Eileen’s Special Cheesecake for their legendary cheesecake.
The afternoon was all about shopping and wandering through SoHo, Chinatown, and Little Italy—each neighborhood with its own vibe, colors, and charm.
To end the day, we grabbed some beers and chips and headed to Pier 35, a peaceful spot along the East River with a perfect sunset view over the skyline, framed by the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan Bridge. The light, the calm, the city—it was one of those moments that made us fall in love with New York all over again.
-
New York, United States of America
Day 5 – Pancakes, rooftops & Sex and the City vibes
We started the day on a sweet note with Bubby’s famous pancakes—fluffy, iconic, and absolutely worth the hype. A proper NYC breakfast to fuel a full day of walking.
Our first stop was Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment at 66 Perry Street. If you’re a Sex and the City fan, it’s a must-do photo op—and even if you’re not, the whole West Village area is full of charm.
From there, we took a long, lovely walk all the way to The Vessel and hopped onto the High Line, the elevated park that winds through the west side of Manhattan. We followed it all the way to Chelsea Market, where we grabbed a casual lunch and explored the many food and design stalls.
After a quick hotel stop to freshen up, we headed out for an evening at The Peak, one of the city’s sleekest rooftop bars. From there, we visited the Edge at sunset—hands down, our favorite view of the whole trip. The feeling of standing on that glass platform with the skyline glowing all around? Unforgettable.
To finish the day, we met up with some friends for dinner at El Coco, a fun and colorful Mexican spot with $5 margaritas that totally hit the spot. A perfect way to wrap up an iconic NYC day!
-
New York, United States of America
Day 6 – Diners, Coney Island & a sunset farewell from the Top of the Rock
For our last full day in New York, we went classic with breakfast at Square Diner, one of the city’s oldest diners. Think eggs, crispy bacon, and pancakes straight out of a movie scene. Portions were huge—definitely a good idea to share!
Then we hopped on the subway for a little adventure out of Manhattan: Coney Island. Even off-season, seeing the iconic Luna Park and grabbing a hot dog at Nathan’s Famous felt like stepping into a slice of NYC history. It’s kitschy, nostalgic, and fun in the best way.
Back in the city, we headed to the Rockefeller Center for one last dose of big New York energy, and then made our way to the Top of the Rock. The view at sunset is breathtaking, with the Empire State Building glowing and Central Park fading into twilight—such a perfect way to wrap things up.
We squeezed in one last round of souvenir shopping (because how could we not?), and for our final dinner, we circled back to a favorite: Le Relais de l’Entrecôte. That steak-frites combo was just too good not to repeat.