Visit New York City in the United States
Welcome to New York, one of the world’s most fascinating cities! Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this vibrant metropolis will seduce you with its iconic monuments, unique neighborhoods and unparalleled energy.
Why visit New York?
- A mythical city: From the Statue of Liberty to Times Square, New York has been the setting for numerous films and TV series.
- With great cultural diversity: Discover a mosaic of cultures with cuisines, festivals and communities from all over the world.
- A destination for everyone: Whether you love art, history, shopping or fine dining, New York has it all.
New York must-sees
1. Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
A symbol of freedom and hope, the Statue of Liberty is a must-see. Take a ferry to admire this monument and explore Ellis Island to learn more about immigrant history.
2. Central Park
A peaceful haven in the heart of Manhattan. Rent a bike, have a picnic or explore famous sites like Strawberry Fields and Bethesda Fountain.
3. Times Square
The bright heart of New York. Discover the giant billboards, Broadway theaters and excitement of this iconic location.
4. Empire State Building
Enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the Empire State Building, one of the world’s most famous buildings. A must for memorable photos!
5. Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
Admire masterpieces by Picasso, Van Gogh and many others at MoMA, one of the world’s finest museums.
6. Brooklyn Bridge
Cross this iconic bridge for spectacular views of Manhattan and Brooklyn, especially at sunset.
Neighborhoods not to be missed
- Manhattan: The nerve center with Wall Street, Harlem and Soho.
- Brooklyn: Trendy place with Dumbo, Williamsburg and Coney Island.
- Queens: Capital of multicultural cuisine and green spaces.
- Bronx: Birthplace of hip-hop and home of the Yankees.
- Staten Island: A quiet getaway with beaches and a superb free ferry.
Practical tips for visiting New York
| Category | Advice |
|---|---|
| Transport | Use the metro to get around easily and economically. Buy a MetroCard for unlimited travel. |
| Weather | Prepare yourself according to the season: warm clothes for winter and light clothes for summer. Take an umbrella for rainy days. |
| Budget | You’ll need to budget for paying attractions, but also take advantage of the many free activities, such as museums with free admission on certain days. |
| Security | New York is generally safe, but be vigilant in tourist areas and watch your belongings in the subway or on crowded streets. |
| Clothing | Wear comfortable shoes for walking in the city, and adapt your outfit to the changing weather, especially in spring and autumn. |
| Reservations | Book in advance for popular attractions like Top of the Rock or the Statue of Liberty, and for restaurants in high season. |
| Outdoor activities | Plan breaks in parks like Central Park or Bryant Park to relax between visits and enjoy nature in the heart of the city. |
Where to eat in New York?
- Katz’s Delicatessen: Taste the famous pastrami sandwich.
- Joe’s Pizza: A slice of typical New York pizza.
- Shake Shack: Burgers for a quick meal.
- Chinatown NYC: For delicious dim sum and fresh noodles.
- Little Italy NYC: Perfect for authentic Italian dining.
When to go to New York?
New York is a city that can be visited at any time of year, with each season offering a unique experience. Spring, from March to May, is ideal for exploring parks like Central Park, when the trees are in bloom and temperatures are mild. Summer, from June to August, brings a vibrant atmosphere with festivals, lively rooftops and outdoor activities, although the heat can be intense. Autumn, from September to November, is one of the best times to visit, with pleasant weather and spectacular leaf colors in the parks. Finally, winter, from December to February, is perfect for enjoying Christmas decorations, winter markets and the ice rink at Rockefeller Center, although temperatures can be cold.
Conclusion
New York is an exhilarating and unforgettable destination. Whether you come for a weekend or a week, the city offers a multitude of rich and varied experiences. Pack your bags and let yourself be swept away by the excitement of this unique city!
If you need more advice or personalized recommendations, don’t hesitate to consult our other guides on major American cities, such as: Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami, Las Vegas or San Francisco. And don’t forget to apply for an ESTA for New York. The formalities for traveling to the United States are prepared in advance of boarding.