Visiting New York: Good Plans
The city known as 'the Big Apple' is one of the most cosmopolitan and fascinating metropolises in the world. Every year it welcomes some 40 million tourists. We suggest you some good plans to discover New York and its mythical districts.
Finding your way
The city of New York is located on the mouth of the Hudson River and consists of 5 districts: Manhattan; Brookyn (connected to Manhattan by the famous Brooklyn Bridge); Staten Island; the Bronx and Queens.
The heart of the city is Manhattan Island, which is usually divided into 3 distinct areas: Manhattan Downtown, Midtown or Uptown.
Midtown, the central district of the island, is the place not to be missed to discover its huge skyscrapers, Times Square or the no less famous 5th Avenue.
Midtown: a must-see
Midtown Manhattan, famous for its thousands of neon lights and buildings, exemplifies New York's nickname, 'the city that never sleeps'.
In this sprawling district, which stretches from Union Square to the south of Central Park and across the width of the island, you can shop, see a musical or visit some of the city's most iconic buildings at any hour.
On Broadway Avenue, don't miss the world's most famous intersection, Times Square and its giant billboards, best seen at night.
Even if you can't afford to shop there, don't hesitate to stroll along the mythical 5th Avenue to admire the windows of the biggest international luxury brands.
Also take a trip to Macy's, the world's largest department store where you can find absolutely everything.
Manhattan Midtown is also home to the Empire State Building, which is a must-see for its terrace offering an exceptional view. If you want to avoid a long wait, prefer the panoramic roof of the Rockefeller Center where the view is just as beautiful.
The famous MOMA, Museum of Modern Art, is another must-see for its collections of Picasso and Matisse, not to mention St Patrick's Cathedral, which is the largest cathedral in the country.
After all these visits, Central Park will offer you a haven of peace and greenery in the heart of the big city.
Getting around cheaply
The Subway is the most economical and convenient way to get around New York. Bring a map and the Metro Card.
This card allows unlimited travel on buses and subways. It's sold at Subway stations and tourist offices for $7 a day or $24 for seven days.
Also be aware that the ferry that serves Staten Island is a municipal free service that operates 24 hours a day.
The ride, which takes about 25 minutes, offers a beautiful view of the tip of Manhattan Island and a panoramic view of the Statue of Liberty.
How can I get discounts?
From July to September, the New York City Tourism Office offers discounts at certain hotels and on certain excursions (please follow the link below).
In addition, the New York City Pass valid for 9 days gives you discounted access to 6 major attractions in the city, including MOMA and the Empire State Building.
To see a show on Broadway at the best price, buy your ticket the same day at TKTS counters. You'll then get a significant discount, provided you pay in Travellers cheques or cash.
