4 Days In New York City Itinerary: Explore The City That Never Sleeps
Headed to New York City? Dive into this 4-day NYC itinerary to discover the best tips, things to do, and sights to see!
New York City, a world-famous metropolitan hotspot, is known for its bright lights and big city energy. It’s a bucket list place for many and 100% worth the visit.
After living in New York City for nearly two years in both Midtown and Downtown, I’ve come to appreciate everything New York has to offer and finally understand the saying “New York or Nowhere.”
The fast-paced energy is unmatched, and the city is as diverse as it comes, both in who you meet and the activities, restaurants, and shops you can explore.
You could spend a lifetime here and still not discover everything. However, in just four days, you can hit the highlights and experience the unique local spots. It’s the perfect trip for a long weekend!
That said, I want to ensure you make the most of your time in NYC, so it helps to have a plan!
This 4-day NYC itinerary mixes the big landmarks—like Rockefeller Center, Central Park, the MET, and Broadway—with some of my favorite local spots for a well-rounded experience.
It’s designed to help you see the best of New York without feeling overwhelmed, and give you a trip that’s exciting, memorable, and uniquely yours!
Ready? Let’s go!
NYC Itinerary: 4 Days Overview
➡️Day 1: Manhattan Moments & Midtown Must-Sees
➡️Day 2: Brooklyn Bridges & Boutique Browsing
➡️Day 3: Village Vibes & Downtown Discoveries
➡️Day 4: Art & Architecture
Day One: Manhattan Moments & Midtown Must-Sees
Start your 4-day trip by exploring some of the most iconic landmarks of New York City, such as Rockefeller Center, Central Park, and the MET.
Morning
Start your day by grabbing a classic bagel from any bagel shop and a coffee (check out my Beli lists for all food recs), then head to one of New York’s most iconic monuments, Rockefeller Center, aka 30 Rock.
It embodies everything New York, and you can see where many famous shows are filmed.
If you’ve never been to New York, I recommend going to the Top of the Rock to experience the expansive views of the city, including views of the Empire State Building.
It’s stunning and the perfect way to start your trip!
➡️ Book Tickets to See the Top of the Rock
From here, stop by Bryant Park and admire the well-known New York Public Library. There is always a mix of activities happening here, and it’s a great spot to people-watch.
Once you’ve walked through the park, head down 5th Avenue, a famous street known for its high-end shopping.
You’ll pass by St. Patrick’s Cathedral and will have plenty of opportunities to window shop.
Taking 5th Avenue uptown will take you right to Central Park. Central Park is one of my favorite spots in New York and is a stop you can’t miss.
Wander through the park and check out the Bow Bridge and Bethesda Terrace, and if you’re feeling up for it, check out the Central Park Boathouse, where you can row boats around the lake.
Afternoon
Either bring a picnic to eat in Central Park or grab lunch at a restaurant on your way to the MET, the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Spend the afternoon exploring the many exhibits in the MET– it is one of the coolest museums and 100% worth the hype!
➡️ Join a Guided Tour of the MET
Check out the rooftop for views of Central Park before you leave.
Evening
After the MET, stroll the Upper East Side– it’s beautiful! For dinner, make your way to the Upper West Side.
You’ll find a variety of cafés, shops, and unique boutiques. You may even pass the famous Lincoln Center on the way.
Grab an earlier dinner to ensure you have plenty of time to catch a Broadway show.
Seeing a Broadway show is a special, very New York experience. You can grab same-day discounted tickets from the TKTS Booth or use an app like TodayTix to see a show while still sticking to your budget.
However, you may have limited availability or need to wait in long lines, so book your tickets in advance to avoid the hassle.
Day Two: Brooklyn Bridges & Boutique Browsing
Day 1 was a PACKED day! For that reason, day 2 will be a bit more relaxed, but don’t worry, you’ll still experience all the highlights.
Today, you’ll explore Brooklyn, including the Brooklyn Bridge, DUMBO, and Williamsburg.
Morning
Kick off the day by walking across the Brooklyn Bridge, and be sure to bring your camera– the views are stunning!
Even as a local, I never get over the views. And, it’s best to go in the morning to avoid the crowds.
The bridge will take you into DUMBO, so take some time exploring the area. Wander through the cobblestone streets and check out Pebble Beach.
Walk down Washington Street to discover the most iconic photography spot in DUMBO– you’ll get a famous view of the Manhattan Bridge.
If you’re visiting between April and December, check out the incredible Brooklyn Flea market, an outdoor, weekend market featuring diverse, affordable finds.
Grab brunch in DUMBO before making your way to Williamsburg.
➡️ Explore DUMBO and the Brooklyn Bridge with a Guided Tour
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon wandering the streets of Williamsburg– a beautiful neighborhood in Brooklyn known for its mix of historical buildings and modern, trendy spots.
It has a laid-back, alternative vibe seen in its boutiques, coffee shops, and music scene.
Visit Domino Park to admire the views of the Manhattan skyline. Grab a drink or a sweet treat and spend some time here.
If you’re visiting anytime April-October, check out Smorgasburg, a large outdoor food market set up every Saturday.
Browse the many boutiques, vintage stores, and bookshops. There’s plenty to see and explore, and you’re likely to come across unique finds.
Evening
Spend the evening in Williamsburg exploring the food and rooftop scene. Williamsburg has plenty of rooftop bars featuring the insane views of Manhattan (I clearly can’t get enough of the views!).
Check out one of these spots for a drink at sunset before heading to dinner.
Williamsburg is known for its food scene, so get excited for an incredible dinner! Reservations go quickly in NYC, so book a reservation a few weeks in advance if you can.
Check out popular restaurant recs and my personal recs on Beli!
End the night at another rooftop bar if that’s your vibe, see a DJ (usually at a rooftop as well), or check out the live music scene.
Day Three: Village Vibes & Downtown Discoveries
Wahoo! You’ve made it to day 3 of your trip! You will have seen A LOT of New York’s most famous places, along with some favorite local spots by now.
And there’s even more of that to come!
Today, you’ll explore Greenwich Village, SoHo, Tribeca, and the Financial District.
Morning
Start your day walking through Greenwich Village, a cute, residential neighborhood with plenty of cafés, shops, and restaurants. Grab a bagel at Leon’s Bagels or brunch at Banter.
Walk through Washington Square Park– this is 100% the best place to people-watch, and you’ll be able to see the iconic arch and witness the best kind of community building.
After stopping at the park, check out SoHo, another downtown neighborhood known for its high-end fashion, trendy vibes, and restaurant scene.
Check out chic boutiques and designer stores while admiring the unique architecture along the way.
Afternoon
Take a break for lunch and get a bite at one of the many popular SoHo restaurants. When you’re feeling rested again, make your way to Tribeca, a quieter luxury neighborhood.
It’s fun to wander the streets– you may even see the Ghostbusters Headquarters.
The West Side Highway also continues down through Tribeca if you want to enjoy a walk along the Hudson River.
Walking through Tribeca will take you down to the west side of the Financial District, where you can see the famous One World Trade Center.
If you’re up for it, explore the 9/11 Memorial and the World Trade Center Transportation Hub. It’s a humbling experience.
➡️ Experience the Views from the One World Observatory
➡️ Join a Ground Zero 9/11 Memorial Tour
Evening
I recommend grabbing dinner in the West Village, Greenwich Village, or SoHo. You’ll find more neighborhood spots with high-quality food and unique menus vs the tourist traps.
The restaurants in these neighborhoods are typically small, have exposed brick walls, and have a very cozy vibe– they’re my favorite.
After dinner, catch a comedy show, discover a hidden wine bar, or see live jazz in the West Village.
Day Four: Art & Architecture
For your last day of the trip, end on a relaxing note while exploring some of Manhattan’s most famous museums and neighborhoods, both of which are known for their art and architecture.
Hit highlights like the West Village, the High Line, Little Island, and the Whitney.
Morning
Start in the West Village– grab coffee or a matcha from The Hungry Ghost or Bedford Studio and get pancakes at Breakfast by Salt’s Cure, my favorite neighborhood pancake spot.
Get there early as they don’t take reservations, and there’s always a line out the door.
After breakfast, wander through the neighborhood. You’ll pass by the most beautiful brownstones and tree-lined streets.
It’s very New York in a more residential, low-key way. Pop into the many boutiques and coffee shops and take a walk along the West Side Highway to take in the riverside views.
Along the West Side Highway, you’ll pass the Little Island, a unique “floating” public park that looks like a little island.
Spend a moment on the island before heading to walk the High Line.
The south end of the High Line is near the Little Island, so start here and make your way to the northern end.
This elevated urban park allows you to see the NYC views in a unique way, and you’ll be able to see various art installations and stunning buildings on your walk.
➡️ If you’d prefer to join a guided tour of these moments, book here!
Afternoon
You’ll be pretty close to Chelsea Market after walking the High Line, so grab a bite to eat at this famous market.
Chelsea Market is another classic New York activity, and there are plenty of incredible food options.
After lunch, check out the Whitney, an expansive art museum focused on 20th and 21st century American art, which features over 25,000 pieces of art.
If you feel up for it, head back to the Upper East Side to explore the Guggenheim.
Part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Guggenheim is one of New York’s most famous architectural icons and art museums.
Another option is to see the iconic Edge, a unique viewpoint in Hudson Yards offering 360° views of NYC. It’s touristy, but the views are worth it.
If you’re feeling extra daring (and are not afraid of heights), you can do the city climb.
You’d scale the outside of this skyscraper and take in the views from the highest outdoor platform in New York City!
Evening
Spend your final night downtown and enjoy a relaxing dinner. You may be a bit tired by now (in the best way, of course), so take it easy and savor your last moments in NYC.
I recommend finding a restaurant in the West Village, Greenwich Village, or SoHo.
From here, head to one of the hotels in SoHo to grab a rooftop drink and take in the city views.
New York City Itinerary Top Tips
Here are a few helpful things to keep in mind as you plan your trip to New York City:
✅ Check out my Beli lists for curated restaurant, coffee shop, and bar recs all over the city.
✅ NYC is walkable—but huge – You’ll walk a ton, but don’t expect to get everywhere on foot. Use the subway (or CitiBike!) to save time and energy, especially between boroughs or if you’re staying far from downtown.
✅ The subway is faster than you think – It might look confusing at first, but it’s the easiest and most affordable way to get around. Download the CityMapper or Google Maps app for real-time directions.
✅ Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable – Even on chill days, you’ll probably walk 10,000+ steps. Leave the heels for dinner and bring sneakers you love.
✅ Tipping is expected – In restaurants, bars, taxis, and even at cafes, a 15–20% tip is standard. Many places add gratuity automatically, so check the bill before doubling up.
✅ Each neighborhood has its own vibe – Don’t just stay in Midtown. Explore Brooklyn, the West Village, SoHo, Nolita, and beyond for a more local, laid-back feel.
✅ Weather shifts fast – Pack layers year-round. Summers can be hot and humid, winters are freezing, and spring/fall are perfect—but still unpredictable.
✅ Reservations go fast – Popular restaurants book up weeks in advance. If there’s a place you need to try, grab a res on Resy, SevenRooms, or OpenTable early.
✅ Free activities are everywhere – From picnicking in Central Park to seeing the skyline from the Brooklyn Bridge, you don’t have to spend a ton to enjoy the city.
✅ NYC moves fast, but you don’t have to – There’s always something going on, but the best moments usually come when you slow down—whether it’s reading in a coffee shop, watching the sunset on the waterfront, or people-watching in Washington Square Park.
Where To Stay in NYC
New York City is massive, so choosing the right neighborhood can shape your trip.
Whether you want to be in the middle of the action, stay somewhere more residential, or wake up to skyline views, there’s a neighborhood for every vibe.
Below are my favorite hotel picks for every budget—each in a great location to help you make the most of your stay.
📍Budget Option: The Pod Hotel – Times Square
A sleek, minimalist spot just steps from Broadway and the subway—perfect if you’re looking for a clean and affordable stay right in Midtown.
➡️ Book The Pod Hotel- Times Square
📍Mid-Range Option: Arlo SoHo
Stylish rooms, a rooftop bar, and a location that puts you in one of the most walkable, fun, and local-feeling neighborhoods in Manhattan.
📍Luxury Option: 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge – Bridge King Room
Wake up to sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge—this eco-luxury stay is one of the coolest places to stay in NYC.
➡️ Book 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
NYC FAQs
Still have questions? I’ve got you—below are some quick answers to help you plan your trip like a pro.
Is 4 days in New York City enough?
Yes! Four days is a perfect amount of time to get a feel for the city. You’ll be able to see the iconic spots, check out a few neighborhoods, and still have room for some slower, more local moments. It’ll fly by—but in the best way.
What is the prettiest part of New York City?
Depends on your vibe. The West Village feels like a movie set, Brooklyn Heights has amazing views and brownstones, and DUMBO is full of cobblestone streets and skyline photo ops. You really can’t go wrong.
Where’s the best area to stay in NYC as a tourist?
Midtown is super central, but if you want something that feels a bit more local and relaxed, I always recommend staying downtown—SoHo, Greenwich Village, or even Williamsburg in Brooklyn are all great options.
How do I get from JFK or LaGuardia to the city?
Easiest? Taxi or Uber—especially if you’ve got luggage. Cheapest? From JFK, take the AirTrain to the subway. From LaGuardia, it’s a bus + subway combo (also very easy). Either way, give yourself time—NYC traffic and transit can be unpredictable.
Final Thoughts
And that’s a wrap on your 4-day New York City itinerary!
I hope this guide helps you make the most of your time in NYC—seeing the iconic sights, discovering a few local favorites, and getting a real feel for the energy that makes this city so special.
New York can be a lot, but in the best way.
With a bit of a plan (and some room to wander), four days is the perfect amount of time to hit the highlights, try amazing food, and explore the best neighborhoods.
Have the best trip! You’re going to love it here:)
