New York is one of the world’s most iconic cities, offering endless experiences for travelers. The following questions and answers will help you navigate the most important things to know, whether it’s about safety, transportation, or the best time to visit.
Table of Contents
General information
What time zone is New York in?
New York is in the Eastern Time (ET, UTC–5) time zone.
During Eastern Standard Time (EST), New York is five hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-5). When Daylight Saving Time is observed, it switches to Eastern Daylight Time (EDT), which is four hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-4).
When is the best time to visit New York?
The best time to visit New York is generally spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November) are considered the best periods. The weather is pleasant, not too hot and not too cold, making conditions ideal for exploring the city.
The spring season (April–June) is one of the best times to visit New York. Temperatures are pleasant, around 15–25 °C, parks and public spaces burst into bloom, and tourist crowds have not yet reached their summer peak.
The summer (July to August) can be hot and humid, with temperatures sometimes exceeding 35 °C. However, the city offers vibrant festivals and outdoor events during this time, and many museums and attractions have extended opening hours.
The autumn (September–November) is also an excellent period. The air is crisp, the foliage displays beautiful colours, and the weather is generally dry and sunny.
The Christmas season in New York offers a magical atmosphere: festive lights, holiday markets, and ice rinks await visitors. However, this is one of the most crowded and expensive periods, so it is advisable to book in advance.
How many days should you spend in New York?
To explore New York, at least 4–5 days are recommended. The city consists of five boroughs and offers nearly endless things to see, so the more time a traveler spends there, the more they can discover.
In 3 days the most important sights can be covered: the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Times Square, the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, and walks through a few neighborhoods.
A 5–7 day stay allows for exploring the city at a more relaxed pace, including world-famous museums (MET, MoMA), various neighborhoods (Harlem, Williamsburg, DUMBO), and even a day trip to the surrounding area.
What is the official currency in New York?
The official currency of New York is the US dollar (USD).
Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere in New York – in restaurants, shops, and taxis alike. Cash may be needed mainly in smaller shops, at street vendors, or for tips. ATMs are widely available, but it is worth watching out for transaction fees.
What type of plug adapter is used in New York?
New York uses Type A and Type B plugs, and most European devices will require a travel adapter.
The mains voltage is 110–120 Volt, while in Europe 230 Volt is standard. Most modern electronic devices (phone chargers, laptops) automatically support voltages between 100–240 V, so with an adapter they can generally be used without any issues.
How does internet and SIM card use work in New York?
New York has excellent internet connectivity. Free Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, cafes, and restaurants. If continuous mobile internet is needed, it is worth purchasing a local SIM card or eSIM.
An eSIM is a particularly convenient option that can be purchased and activated online before traveling. The major carriers (T-Mobile, AT&T, Verizon) offer good coverage in New York.
Is tipping customary in New York?
Yes, tipping in New York is essential. In restaurants, 18–20% of the bill is expected, in cafes and bars $1–2 per drink is standard. Tipping is also customary in taxis and at hair salons.
It is important to know that in many restaurants, servers have a low base salary and earn most of their income from tips. Therefore, leaving no tip is considered disrespectful, unless there were serious issues with the service.
Travel and transportation
How do I get from the airport to central New York?
New York has three major airports: JFK (John F. Kennedy), LaGuardia (LGA) and Newark (EWR). The way to get to the city center depends on which airport you arrive at.
From JFK, the most convenient option is the AirTrain + subway combination, which reaches Manhattan in about 60–75 minutes and is relatively affordable. Taxis charge a flat rate, and Uber/Lyft are also available.
From LaGuardia, there is no direct subway connection, but bus services and taxi/rideshare options are available. The journey takes 30–60 minutes depending on traffic.
From Newark, the AirTrain + NJ Transit train combination takes you to Manhattan in about 30–45 minutes.
What is the most convenient mode of transportation in New York?
In New York, the subway is the fastest and most affordable mode of transportation. The network operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and nearly all major attractions are accessible by subway. It is worth getting an OMNY card or registering with the OMNY system, which allows payment by bank card or phone.
The walking in Manhattan is particularly pleasant and efficient, as neighborhoods are easy to explore on foot. taxi and Uber/Lyft are also widely used, especially in the evening, in bad weather, or for harder-to-reach destinations.
Accommodation and safety
Is New York a safe city?
New York has become significantly safer in recent decades, and most neighborhoods frequented by tourists are generally safe, especially during the day. As in any major city, it is worth staying alert and keeping an eye on your valuables.
Among the best-known and safest areas are Midtown Manhattan, the Upper East and West Side, Greenwich Village, SoHo, and many parts of Brooklyn. At night, it is advisable to use taxis or rideshare services and avoid less busy side streets.
Which neighborhood is best to stay in New York?
For most tourists, Midtown Manhattan offers the best location: it is close to Times Square, Central Park, the subway, and most attractions. However, it is also one of the most expensive areas.
Lower Manhattan is closer to attractions such as Wall Street, Brooklyn Bridge, and the 9/11 Memorial. It is worth staying here for a few days as well.
Brooklyn (especially Williamsburg, DUMBO, or Park Slope) is increasingly popular among tourists, as it is charming, more affordable, and easily accessible from Manhattan by subway.
Health information
Are mandatory vaccinations required to travel to New York?
Traveling to New York generally requires no mandatory vaccinations for travelers.
Is tap water drinkable in New York?
Yes, New York’s tap water is of excellent quality and safe to drink. The city’s water supply is based on spring water from the Adirondack and Catskill mountains. New York’s tap water is considered one of the best quality drinking waters in the United States, so purchasing bottled water is not necessary.
How much does healthcare cost in New York?
In the United States, healthcare is extremely expensive, so it is strongly recommended to take out travel insurance before traveling, which covers any potential medical expenses. Emergency treatment can cost several thousand dollars without insurance.
Experiences
What are the must-see sights in New York?
New York’s most famous attractions include the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Times Square, the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, the Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET), and MoMA and High Line. These places beautifully showcase the city’s rich history, culture, and unique atmosphere.
The Statue of Liberty is one of New York’s most iconic symbols, viewable from Liberty Island. A ferry ticket is required to get there, and entry into the interior of the statue requires a separate advance booking.
The Central Park is a 341-hectare green oasis in the heart of Manhattan. Walking paths, lakes, museums, and outdoor activities make it an enjoyable destination year-round.
The Times Square is one of the world’s most famous squares, offering a breathtaking spectacle both day and night with its enormous billboards and vibrant bustle.
The Brooklyn Bridge serves not only as a pedestrian crossing but also as one of the best vantage points for admiring Manhattan’s skyline.
What are the most popular foods and drinks in New York?
New York’s culinary scene is extremely diverse, but a few dishes are particularly characteristic of the city: New York-style pizza (thin crust, large slices), bagel (with cream cheese or salmon), hot dog and cheesecake are the most iconic.
The New York-style pizza is one of the best-known local specialties. It is characterized by its large, foldable slice, typically eaten by hand. In addition to traditional pizzerias, numerous creative variations are available throughout the city.
The bagel is New York’s signature breakfast food. Local bagels are considered by many to be the best in the world and are typically enjoyed with cream cheese, smoked salmon (lox), or other toppings.
New York’s most iconic dessert is the cheesecake, which is best sampled at one of the traditional deli restaurants or bakeries.
What are the important holidays and festivals in New York?
New York hosts numerous important holidays and festivals throughout the year. Among the most well-known are the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop at Times Square, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the NYC Pride and US Open tennis tournament.
One of the most spectacular events is New Year’s Eve, when hundreds of thousands of people gather at Times Square for the midnight ball drop. Due to the crowds, it is advisable to arrive early and secure a good spot.
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (the last Thursday of November) is one of New York’s most beloved traditions, featuring giant balloons and processions marching through Manhattan.
The NYC Pride (June) is one of the world’s largest LGBTQ+ parades, a vibrant and festive event throughout the entire city.
