my first visit to a large city

21 Big City Tips: A Young Professional’s Guide to Thriving in the Big City in 2024

Posted on Last updated: 6 January 2024

Home » USA Travel » 21 Big City Tips: A Young Professional’s Guide to Thriving in the Big City in 2024

In the realm of personal and professional growth, few experiences rival the thrill and challenges that await young, single professionals as they venture into the vast landscape of big city life.

The allure of endless possibilities, vibrant cultures, and exciting career opportunities draws countless individuals from small towns and rural areas to the bustling metropolises. However, amidst the grandeur and dynamism of urban living lie unique hurdles that demand adaptability, resilience, and resourcefulness.

This comprehensive guide aims to equip young, single professionals with the essential tools, tips, and insights to not just survive but thrive in the concrete jungles they now call home.

Whether you’re an ambitious graduate embarking on your first post-college job, an adventurous soul seeking new horizons, or a determined dreamer chasing your aspirations, this compilation of wisdom gained from my experience moving to the big city will help you navigate the urban labyrinth with confidence and poise.

The first part of embracing a big city when coming from a small town is to embrace public transportation , a lifeline that connects individuals to every nook and cranny of the city. Understanding the intricacies of buses, trains, and subways can significantly enhance daily commutes, conserve finances, and grant firsthand experiences of the city’s kaleidoscope of cultures during transit.

To establish a sense of belonging and combat potential feelings of isolation, it’s also important to build a community through networking and joining social groups . Engaging in professional meetups, community clubs, and shared-interest gatherings not only expands one’s social circle but also fosters valuable connections that can propel careers and create lifelong friendships.

However, as we all know, the allure of the city comes with its share of financial challenges. Budgeting wisely becomes imperative to manage expenses effectively, allowing young professionals to strike a balance between personal aspirations and financial stability.

No city experience is complete without indulging in its culinary delights—usually one of the biggest benefits from living in a city. Explore through diverse restaurants and food havens that embody the very essence of the city’s cultural tapestry—that’s how you can really get to know th eplace.

While cities present myriad opportunities, it’s also essential to prioritize safety at every turn. Coming from a small town to the big city , you might feel apprehensive or nervous, and while I strongly believe you should embrace the challenge, I understand you might still be nervous. Take simple safety measures and use common sense and you’ll be fine. It’s really all about being vigilant, secure in yourself, and aware of the local news.

Stepping into the unknown can be daunting, but finding a cozy neighborhood that resonates with one’s values and lifestyle is obviously important when moving to a new city . By understanding proximity to workplaces, community amenities, and the overall ambiance, young professionals can discover a sense of belonging in their urban abode.

As the first part of this comprehensive guide, these tips lay the groundwork for a successful transition from small-town living to the grand stage of big city life . Armed with knowledge, adaptability, and a thirst for exploration, young, single professionals are better poised to thrive amidst the hustle and bustle of the urban landscape.

In the big city tips below, I delve deeper into time management, personal safety, cultural immersion, and other key facets that will sculpt your journey into an urban masterpiece. Embrace the change, for within these streets lies a world of endless possibilities and boundless potential.

21 Tips for Surviving Big City Life

My experience: I grew up in a small town in Texas , where the lot next door to me was cows and horses. For college, I made the move to downtown Boston, a small big city that helped train me on a lot of these tips, and then eventually moved and lived abroad in Sydney, Tel Aviv, London, Berlin and finally in New York City.

Don’t be afraid of making the move to a big city if you’re from a small town! It’s easier than you think.

1. Embrace public transportation

Familiarize yourself with the city’s extensive public transportation network, including buses, trains, and subways. Utilizing public transit can save you time and money , reduce stress from dealing with traffic, and provide an opportunity to observe the city’s unique culture and diverse population during your daily commute.

2. Network and join social groups

Attend professional networking events, join social clubs, or explore hobby-related meetups to expand your social circle. Engaging in such activities will not only help you make new friends but also enhance your career prospects and combat feelings of isolation in the bustling city.

3. Budget wisely

With increased living costs in big cities, creating a detailed budget is crucial for managing your finances effectively. Track your expenses, prioritize essential spending, and save for future goals to avoid financial stress and live comfortably.

4. Explore local cuisine

Immerse yourself in the vibrant food scene by trying out diverse restaurants, food trucks, and street vendors. Exploring local cuisine allows you to discover the city’s cultural diversity and treat your taste buds to a delightful culinary journey.

5. Prioritize safety

As a young, single professional, be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to stay safe. Keep your belongings secure, avoid walking alone in poorly-lit areas, and familiarize yourself with the city’s safer neighborhoods.

6. Find the right neighborhood for you

Research and explore different neighborhoods to find the one that aligns with your preferences and lifestyle. Consider factors like proximity to work, safety, amenities, and the sense of community to create a comfortable living space.

7. Develop time management skills

Big cities can be overwhelming with various events and activities. Mastering time management and prioritization will enable you to make the most of your schedule and strike a healthy work-life balance.

8. Stay open-minded and adaptable

Embrace the diversity of cultures and lifestyles in the city and be open to new experiences and challenges. Flexibility and adaptability will help you thrive in a dynamic urban environment.

9. Build an emergency kit

Prepare for unexpected situations by assembling a portable emergency kit containing essentials like a flashlight, first aid items, emergency contacts, and basic supplies to address unforeseen circumstances.

10. Cultivate a hobby

Engaging in a hobby you enjoy allows you to unwind and find a sense of fulfillment outside of work. Join clubs or classes related to your interests to meet like-minded individuals and expand your social circle.

11. Invest in comfortable shoes

As you navigate the city on foot, invest in high-quality, comfortable shoes to prevent discomfort and potential foot injuries.

12. Establish a support network

Moving to a big city can be challenging, so seek support from friends, family, or colleagues who can provide guidance, companionship, and assistance during times of adjustment.

13. Learn basic self-defense

Taking a self-defense class can boost your confidence and equip you with valuable skills to stay safe in urban settings, providing peace of mind as you go about your daily activities.

14. Seek out free or low-cost entertainment

Enjoy any city’s offerings without breaking the bank by attending free events, exploring public parks, and participating in community activities.

15. Balance work and play

Set clear boundaries between work and leisure to avoid burnout. Make time for relaxation, hobbies, and socializing to maintain a healthy, well-rounded lifestyle.

16. Explore nearby getaways

Occasionally escape the urban hustle by planning short trips to nearby natural or serene locations. These getaways can serve as refreshing breaks from city life and provide opportunities to recharge.

When you move to a new city, it’s a good idea to get to know the local landscape as well. This is what I did when I’ve lived abroad in new cities; I always made sure to explore as much of the region as possible.

17. Create a homey living space

Personalize your apartment or house to reflect your style and create a comfortable retreat where you can relax and feel at ease after a long day in the city. When you move to a new place, making sure your home is still like a sanctuary is so important as you navigate new challenges.

And while I’ve done the thing where you sell all your belongings before moving to a new place, I firmly believe now it’s good to keep some things the same so there’s some consistency between your old home and new home—that makes the transition to the new city so much easier and more enjoyable.

18. Stay informed about city regulations

Familiarize yourself with local laws, parking regulations, and city-specific rules to avoid unnecessary fines or penalties that can result from not abiding by the city’s regulations.

19. Keep a map handy

While smartphones are convenient, it’s a good idea to have a physical map as a backup in case your phone battery dies or if you encounter connectivity issues. I love hanging a map of the city I’m living in, in my apartment—the physicality of a printed map encourages me to explore more and get to know more about the city and the region.

20. Embrace the cultural scene

Take advantage of the city’s rich cultural offerings, such as museums, galleries, theaters, and cultural events. Exploring these opportunities can deepen your appreciation for the city’s history and heritage.

21. Establish a savings buffer before moving

Moving anytime is expensive, but moving to a big city is even more expensive. Before relocating to a big city, ensure you have a financial safety net by saving enough to cover initial expenses, such as security deposits, moving costs, and setting up your new home.

Having this buffer will provide peace of mind during the transition and allow you to adapt to your new urban lifestyle with greater ease.

In conclusion, embracing the opportunities and challenges of big city life can be a transformative journey for young, single professionals. Armed with the insights and tips provided in this guide, they can navigate the urban labyrinth with confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose.

As you might immerse themselves in the diverse cultures, forge meaningful connections, and balance ambition with personal well-being, you’ll unlock the full potential of the urban experience and pave the way for a fulfilling and prosperous future.

Living in a big city is a lot of fun and can be so rewarding.

America’s Best Cities of 2023

Data reveals how u.s. cities stack up in resonance’s annual list of the best in the country..

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Thanks to the vibrancy of its boroughs and the return of Midtown, NYC retains its top spot in the 2023 Resonance ranking of America’s best cities.

Many of the factors that make the biggest cities in the United States great places to visit—like good weather, world-class museums, and quality restaurants—also make them great cities to live in. Resonance , a consultancy group in real estate, tourism, and economic development, considered these factors as well as user-generated data from social media to create a comprehensive ranking of the best cities in the United States for both travelers and residents.

Data is revealing how post-COVID trends like remote work are affecting cities. Some smaller cities, like Baltimore and Tampa, are seeing a huge boost as people yearn for cultural hubs paired with a nexus of diverse, young talent. As Chris Fair, Resonance president and CEO, notes, “some of the biggest winners” over the past two years “have been so-called ‘second-tier’ cities ... reflecting a shift in demand toward more accessible and affordable cities.”

However, demand remains high for large urban centers like New York City and Chicago, where entrepreneurship and collaboration come unparalleled—proving that it takes more than a pandemic to take down some Goliaths.

How the cities are ranked

To determine which cities would be considered for this list, Resonance looked at U.S. cities with populations of more than 500,000. Each city was ranked based on a combination of qualitative evaluations from locals and visitors, as well as core statistics, including median household income and crime rates. Those ranking metrics covered 25 areas grouped into six core categories: Place, People, Programming, Product, Prosperity, and Promotion.

Place: Metrics in the Place category include how walkable and bike friendly the city is; the number of outdoor spaces, sights, and landmarks, and how many come recommended by locals and visitors on TripAdvisor.

Product: The Product category is where the infrastructure of the city is considered, including its airport connectivity (the number of direct destinations served by the city’s airports), the size of its largest convention center, plus the number of attractions, museums, and major league sports teams. University rankings within each of these cities were factored into this category, too.

People: The People category takes into account the percentage of nonwhite citizens; the percentage of foreign-born residents; and the city’s population with a bachelor’s degree or higher.

Prosperity: This category includes the number of Fortune 500 corporate headquarters located within each city; the number of “knowledge-based businesses” in professional, scientific, and technical services; cost-of-living adjusted earnings; and the poverty rate. While travelers typically don’t consider these things when deciding where to go, Resonance believes that a well-paid, economically secure population facilitates stewardship and innovation.

Programming: This is what you’d typically call the “things to do” category, which covers the number of performing arts and cultural experiences, restaurants, nightlife, and attractions recommended on TripAdvisor.

Promotion: The Promotion category essentially ranks how popular each city is online. Resonance quantified this by looking at the popularity of each city in Google Trends over the last 12 months, as well as the number of Instagram hashtags, Facebook check-ins, Google searches, and TripAdvisor reviews shared online about each city.

Here’s the best cities in the United States’ in 2023 to live in and visit.

New York City took first place again in 2022.

Photo by Ryan DeBerardinis/Shutterstock

1. New York City

Highlighted rankings: Place (1), Prosperity (1)

Why we love it: New York City has (once again) taken the top spot in Resonance’s annual rankings. Make no mistake: Being at the top for the past few years is no easy feat. But the Big Apple has proved its staying power with renovated airports, new hotels and museums enticing people to see the city. Nowadays, there’s a lot to explore in NYC’s neighborhoods . Museums like the beloved Met and the Louis Armstrong House Museum in Queens have been undergoing renovations and expansions over the past year alongside the introduction of new destinations like the Bronx Children’s Museum and Museum of Broadway. Meanwhile, Central Park, the High Line, the Little Island —located on the Hudson near the Meatpacking District—and other outdoor spaces entice you to come outside to relax. Meanwhile, Midtown Manhattan has made a comeback with a revamped Tiffany’s, new hotels, and the opening of the Museum of Broadway.

Plan your next trip with AFAR’s Guide to New York.

Millennium Park is just one of Chicago’s many scenic outdoor spaces.

Photo by Thomas Barrat/Shutterstock

2. Chicago, Illinois

Highlighted rankings: Product (2), Place (3)

Why we love it: There’s plenty to celebrate in Chicago and not only because of its fantastic nightlife. The city saw the return of its epic concerts and free summer festivals, Sundays on State (when portions of iconic State Street turn pedestrian only), even meetings and conventions, marking a newfound energy after some long, hard winters. Restaurants have also popped up in full force; some noteworthy ones include Venteux, a French brasserie from Michelin-starred chef Donald Young, and Bazaar Meat and Bar Mar under chef José Andrés.

We wouldn’t expect any less of a metamorphosis from a city that’s historically been able to thrive in the midst of adversity. More than 150 years ago, the Great Fire destroyed over 2,000 acres of central Chicago and left nearly 100,000 people without homes. But the city hasn’t let disaster define it—instead meeting obstacles with a resilience you need to see for yourself .

“Chicago sees itself, since the fire, as a city able to withstand whatever,” Shermann Dilla Thomas, an historian and lifelong resident who offers guided Chicago tours, told AFAR . “It also makes us a city that doesn’t believe in small plans. After you get a blank canvas, the sky’s the limit.”

Plan your next trip with AFAR’s Guide to Chicago.

Hollywood isn’t Los Angeles’s only tourism draw.

Photo by Maks Urshov/Shutterstock

3. Los Angeles, California

Highlighted rankings: Programming (2), Promotion (2)

Why we love it: While Hollywood’s prowess is the most commonly associated aspect of Los Angeles (the iconic sign turns 100 this year), the city’s restaurant scene in all its richness and diversity is just as intertwined with L.A.'s identity. Vanguards like La Cha Cha Chá, Alma, and even LA Plaza Cocina (a museum and teaching kitchen that honors Mexico’s culinary heritage) are exemplifying the need for outstanding dining experiences as people come back to the city’s tables. Museums rank no. 2 only behind NYC, with the Broad, the Grand, and the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures cycling through big exhibits on Keith Haring, Basquiat, and a century of filmmaking, respectively.

When visitors come, L.A. wants them to explore the city in its entirety, with a $1.7-billion Regional Connector Transit Project—featuring a 1.9-mile underground light-rail system that tunnels across Los Angeles County—predicted to (finally!) open this month on June 16.

Plan your next trip with AFAR’s Guide to Los Angeles.

As AFAR’s original hometown, San Francisco is one of our favorite cities for obvious reasons.

Photo by Sand Crain/Unsplash

4. San Francisco, California

Highlighted rankings: Place (2), People (2)

Why we love it: San Francisco has long drawn people and companies alike—AFAR included—to the West Coast. Thanks to the Bay Area’s world-renowned universities like Stanford and UC Berkeley, San Francisco has one of the most educated and prosperous populations. While the city’s lack of affordable housing cannot be ignored, the migration of big companies to lower-taxed havens like Texas and Florida has produced a silver lining in lower house prices and rents .

Still, “San Francisco’s rate of population decline was the worst among large U.S. counties between July 1, 2020, and July 2, 2022,” reports Resonance. “The city and its surrounding Bay Area counties saw a net population loss of more than 250,000 people in the first two years of the COVID-19 pandemic. Equally terrifying is the city ending 2022 with a 27 percent office vacancy rate, according to local numbers. Even the proudest locals wring their hands as companies leave for Austin and Florida. And then tweet about how you should, too. But life goes on for those who choose to stay and fight for ‘everyone’s favorite city.’”

For those opting to stay, the city emphasizes that you don’t have to leave San Francisco to get to greener pastures, with outdoor developments that include 464 miles of bikeways and the new Salesforce Park downtown. The city’s Great Highway is also of note; with a pandemic-born desire for socially distanced exercise, it now features a car-free, two-mile stretch along SF’s western shore on the weekends.

Plan your next trip with AFAR’s Guide to San Francisco.

In addition to its famous monuments, Washington, D.C.’s neighborhoods have become another major tourism draw for the capital.

Photo by Orhan Cam/Shutterstock

5. Washington, D.C.

Highlighted rankings: Prosperity (3), Promotion (3)

Why we love it: Unsurprisingly, the nation’s capital scores well for its many free museums, including the National Museum of African American History and Culture and other Smithsonian institutions like the National Air and Space Museum. In addition to all of its exhibitions, there are many neighborhoods worth exploring—Brookland, NoMa, Shaw, and the LGBTQ-friendly Logan Circle to name a few—that show the city isn’t relying on its history to attract locals and visitors. What makes D.C. a city worth visiting now are new developments—$9.6 billion of them, says Elliott Ferguson, president and CEO of Destination DC. “The city has added new hotels, museums, rooftops, Michelin-rated dining, and more for travelers to explore. A few upcoming highlights include… MLS All-Star Week in July, DC JazzFest over Labor Day Weekend and Theater Week this fall.”

Plan your next trip with AFAR’s Guide to Washington, D.C.

The beachside location of Miami is hard to resist.

Photo by pisaphotography/Shutterstock

6. Miami, Florida

Highlighted rankings: Place (4), People (3)

Why we love it: Miami has historically been a meeting point for the Americas, making it a no-brainer that its foreign-born population ranked high on the list. But in this city, diversity goes beyond nationality; the city’s allure for the LGBTQ community and ex–Silicon Valley techies gives it a sense of welcome that many people, especially in the social media and cryptocurrency worlds, are embracing.

Last year, Miami moved into the top 10 for the first time, and it continues to rise in the ranks in 2023. It’s likely “a reflection of the migration of investment and talent to the area and its appeal as a destination for visitors relative to other U.S. cities over the last two years,” says Resonance President Chris Fair.

While Miami could rest on its open-minded reputation and beachside location to draw people, the city is also putting in the work to stay relevant. On Miami’s Upper East Side, a former industrial site of abandoned warehouses and factories is being transformed into a center for more than 60 restaurants, cafés, and shops known as Ironside. And it helps that Bon Appétit named Miami the 2023 Food City of the Year.

Plan your next trip with AFAR’s Guide to Miami.

Historical landmarks draw millions of tourists to Boston each year.

Photo by f11photo/Shutterstock

7. Boston, Massachusetts

Highlighted rankings: Place (7), Product (4)

Why we love it: Boston is home to more than 75 institutions of higher learning—including Harvard and MIT—giving it the top spot in the University category and a high ranking in the Educational attainment category. But it’s not only students who come to Boston. As the oldest large city in America, it draws millions of tourists each year to see historical landmarks along the Freedom Trail , including the USS Constitution and the King’s Chapel .

The old city is getting some upgrades, including a 5,000-room increase in the next four years across planned hotels like the 1,055-room Omni Boston Hotel and Raffles Boston Back Bay Hotel. Things are also cooking in the entertainment realm, with Live Nation’s construction of MGM Music Hall at Fenway. This 5,000-seat concert hall, which opened in August 2022, extends the legendary ballpark to accommodate four new levels of event space.

Plan your next trip with AFAR’s Guide to Boston.

The rooftop bar at the Thompson Seattle delivers some of the best views of Elliott Bay.

Thompson Seattle

8. Seattle, Washington

Highlighted rankings: Place (9), Prosperity (6)

Why we love it: Off in the far-most corner of the Pacific Northwest, the pine-scented idyll of Seattle is one of the country’s best-kept secrets, with a high quality of life that comes from continued investment from big tech and (literally) greener pastures. Amazon and Microsoft—two of the cities biggest employers—draw talent from around the globe; though recent layoffs hit the city, real estate prices have finally started to come down from the clouds, making it an interesting time to double down on Seattle.

Wondering what you’ll get when you arrive? Top-notch boating and hiking, food and drinks, theater and music. This year marks the return of Bumbershoot, the Labor Day weekend music and arts festival that has been on a pandemic hiatus for the last three years; it turns 50 in 2023.

Plan your next trip with AFAR’s Guide to Seattle.

Houston Heights—referred to by locals as the Heights—is one of the city’s earliest planned communities and a neighborhood favored by artists.

Photo courtesy of Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau

9. Houston, Texas

Highlighted rankings: Product (5), Programming (7)

Why we love it: “Houston today is one of America’s most ethnically diverse big cities,” reports Resonance, “with more than 145 languages spoken at home, according to the latest census—about even with New York. No wonder it ranks no. 7 for Culture and its prism of festivals, from international film festivals to some of the country’s biggest Juneteenth celebrations. Next year, the city welcomes America’s first Ismaili Center, commissioned by His Highness the Aga Khan as a place of dialogue between faith and the world, East and West, and humanity and nature.”

Dare we say it: The food in Houston is some of the best in the Lone Star state.

Plan your next trip with AFAR’s Guide to Houston.

San Jose is one of the most well-paid and well-educated cities in the country.

Photo by Uladzik Kryhin/Shutterstock

10. San Jose, California

Highlighted rankings: People (1), Prosperity (2)

Why we love it: “It’s fascinating what a well-educated, well-paid, and diverse population can do for a city’s performance,” reports Resonance. “In the case of San Jose, the economic, cultural, and political capital of Silicon Valley and California’s oldest civilian Spanish settlement, it’s everything. The city’s talent has propelled it to another top 10 overall finish in 2023, even amid a battered tech sector and the crescendo in tech circles that ‘everyone is leaving the Valley.’

“San Jose still boasts the most educated citizenry in the country. It’s also home to the second-most foreign-born talent (trailing only Miami). The combo puts the city tops in the country in our People category yet again this year.”

Travelers can check out places like History Park , an open-air museum featuring local architecture that has been saved and relocated over the past few centuries, including a Chinese temple , an entire hotel , and a trolley barn .

The rest of the top 20 cities in the United States:

11. Las Vegas, Nevada

12. Atlanta, Georgia

13. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

14. Denver, Colorado

15. Dallas, Texas

16. San Diego, California

17. Orlando, Florida

18. Austin, Texas

19. Minneapolis, Minnesota (new to top 20 in 2023)

20. Portland, Oregon (new to top 20 in 2023)

To see the full list of the 100 best cities in the United States, visit bestcities.org.

This article was originally published in 2020 and was updated on June 2, 2023, to reflect new rankings.

>> Next: The World’s 25 Best Cities of 2023

25 TIPS TO EXPLORE AND VISIT A CITY

By Author Katie

Posted on Last updated: September 7, 2022

Ever wandered around a city dazed and lost? These tips will help you explore and visit a city to the max; whether you are new or not!

Feeling dazed and lost around a city is normal for newbies to a place – that was us on our first trip together to New York City . We spent the first day literally wandering around and getting lost, staring at the bright lights and receiving puzzled looks from the fast-paced New Yorkers leaping past us. For our next city break, we were much better prepared so I thought I would share with you some tips on exploring a new city.

How to explore and visit a city

Visit a local market

Find out where the local markets are either before arriving or ask at the hotel and get going. You can learn so much about a place by visiting the local market, trying the local food, and just watching the locals. It can also get you off the beaten track a bit.

Sleep before you arrive

If you are taking a long flight, try and sleep on the flight so that you can get going straight away once you’ve arrived in the city. Also, email your hotel ahead of arrival to try and check in early if you are arriving before 2 pm 

Learn basic words and phrases

If you are heading somewhere that speaks a different language then learn or at least make a note on your phone of basic words and phrases you may need to use. When we arrived in Ho Chi Minh City, it took us some time to figure out how to ask the lady at the reception desk where we could get food from at that late hour. I think she thought we were asking for a rest room not a restaurant…

People watching

A fave of mine, when we arrive in a new city (particularly a hot one), it has become a norm of ours to head to a local bar or pub (or cafe if it’s before noon…sometimes), get a seat either outside or one facing the window and just watch the world go by. Obviously, we don’t spend hours doing this but you can learn a lot by taking time before dinner to just relax, drink and watch.

Embrace your inner tourist

Whether you are visiting a city on a trip or you moving somewhere permanently, there is nothing wrong with being a tourist and visiting the tourist traps. There are some bloggers, travelers and travel writers out there who will shun tourist spots and focus on exploring the places less explored. Yeah that is great and we do try and see the less obvious attractions too but actually visiting the Colosseum in Rome, the Great Wall in China , and the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco is what makes trips to these places so amazing. Don’t shy away from those busy attractions, there is always a reason those places are busy!

Talk to the locals

Alongside visiting those tourist spots, try and talk to locals to get their point of view for interesting things to do in that city. You may find hidden gems or an amazing restaurant – if you do, please share these with us in the comments below!

Take a cooking class

If you are in a city for a while, try your hand at a cooking course. Many courses include trips to local stores or markets whilst also giving you the skills to make and try the local dish. Plus, you can chat and socialize with other travelers and locals; learning more about their way of life and culture.

Eat where the locals eat

Avoid restaurants with tour buses nearby and picture menus, instead visit the restaurants down alleyways or around the corner from popular areas or ask locals where they would recommend. If a local would eat there then it will no doubt be good!

When visiting a city, especially if it isn’t too big, try and find as many opportunities as you can to walk to and from places. It is in these moments that you really get to enjoy and explore what a city has to offer and may even find some great restaurants, bars, and attractions along the way.

This may sound obvious but wear comfortable shoes and clothes! You will be walking a lot so pack clothes that are appropriate for your travel.

Not that type of drink… well not all day at least. But staying hydrated is of course important all the time, but especially important when walking around a city.

I don’t know about you but I find that a busy city can be very dry and leave me with dry skin and hair. Bring some moisturize with you and lather up every evening before bed.

Don’t over plan

Before leaving, use blogs, youtube, and trip advisor to plan what you want to see and do and work out which attractions are near one another. But don’t expect to see the Top 20 things to do in NYC in just 4 days…it won’t happen. Prioritize and make yourself a rough plan.

Plan an extra day

If time and money permit, try and plan an extra day. You will always realise there is something else you want to explore and see and that extra day will give you a chance to explore at your own pace and find time to relax.

In honesty, we are guilty of being those people who have occasional lie-ins during our trip and end up missing something we wanted to see. Not anymore I tell you! When traveling for long periods of time then lying in at times is fine but if you are only in a city for a few days then get yourself up bright and early! Aim to leave by 8am so you can make the most of your day and don’t you dare head back to your hotel until at least 10pm.

Photograph it

Make sure you take photos of your adventures whilst you enjoy them. They make for great memories and we would love to see them so do share them on Instagram! That being said, take the photographs for you and not for Facebook… I know I have annoyed many friends by uploading day-by-day piccies of our travels and as much as I may love to stalk my friends’ travels abroad, not everyone loves hundreds of pictures filling up their news feed.

You are on holiday and no matter how much you want to see, you must find time to relax! Whether its taking time for a shopping trip, heading to a show or visiting a spa; find time to unwind. Calum and I will spend all day exploring but then settle in a restaurant and/or bar in the evening, have a few drinks and chat about the day.

Follow bloggers

OK so this one may be biased but I wouldn’t have seen and done half as much as I have done in new cities if it wasn’t for the advice given by travel bloggers. Have a search online and see which bloggers have been to your chosen city and use their advice! Of course, feel free to subscribe to Creative Travel Guide but also check out Alex in Wanderland , migrationology.com , Camels and Chocolate , Never Ending footsteps , Practical Wanderlust and the list goes on. These are the bloggers who have helped me with our travel plans. – Thanks!

Try a city bus

If you are short on time, then hop on a city bus. These are great for getting around a new city, showing you all the attractions and giving you the chance to hop off and explore at your own pace.

Bring a day bag

You will be exploring the city most of the day so make sure you bring a large enough bag to carry essentials (water, camera, purse, phone, map, hotel keys, umbrella, etc).

See it from high

Every city has a tall building in it somewhere. Find it and go up it! Not only is the experience itself a great one but the view can give you a whole new perspective on a city. The Eiffel Tower showed me how massive Paris actually is whilst the Sky Bar of Bangkok offers a different way of life to that on ground level.

Free Walking Tours

Many cities around the world offer some form of free walking tour. Have a google and sign up so you can see the city whilst mingling with locals.

So I know I complained about getting lost at the beginning of this blog but sometimes getting lost in a new city can be just what you need. Whilst in Tokyo we found ourselves lost and ended up somehow inside a gaming company that Calum loves and whilst in Paris, we found an adorable boutique restaurant that had cheap(ish) wine and beer.

Either download a map on your phone, ask at your hotel or nab one from a tourist stand but make sure you have a map. Exploring a new city can be tiring especially when you walk 30 minutes in the wrong direction – not that we are talking from experience! 

UNESCO sites

From my experience, UNESCO sites are always interesting and worth a visit. If your chosen city has any UNESCO sites, try to find some time to visit them.

These are some tips that we use to get use to and explore a new city.

How do you explore a new city?! Share your tips and suggestions in the comments below!

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Rejuvenating Journeys: Transforming Life in a New City – Moving you faster and safer to home

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7 Key Things To Know Before Your First Trip To New York City

• Destinations
• New York City
• United States

New York City is diverse, lively, dense, and home to iconic sights and symbols like the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building. Streets are filled with skyscrapers. It’s a mix of cultures and foods and world-class art. Theater is top quality here. You can shop till you drop. At Times Square, you will marvel at the oversized flashing lighted signs that surround the crowds below. And when you are tired of the bustle, escape to the wonders of Central Park with its lakes and trees and grassy hills.

With all New York City has to offer, it’s easy to get overwhelmed when planning a trip, especially if it’s your first time in NYC. Here are some major things to know that will help. Be flexible once you get to New York, but at least have a game plan ahead of time so you can best enjoy this wonderfully complex city.

1. New York City Is Manhattan And More

New York City is made up of five boroughs, with Manhattan at its core. While you can venture to Brooklyn , the Bronx, Queens, and Staten Island, you will want to center your first trip in Manhattan. This is where you’ll find the Empire State Building , Times Square, Broadway shows, and Central Park . If you have time, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge or take the subway to the Bronx. If you have only a few days, plan to spend most of your time in Manhattan.

2. Sleep In Manhattan But Not In Times Square

Staying in Manhattan on your first trip allows you to fit in the most sightseeing. That doesn’t narrow it down a lot, though, as Manhattan is large and there are hundreds of hotels. Many people book a hotel in Times Square because they’ve heard of it and seen the ball drop on TV on New Year’s Eve. But I recommend staying at least a few blocks away from the chaos and noise and giant neon signs of Times Square. Choose a place in your budget and preferences at least a few blocks away.

I like staying near Grand Central Station on East 42nd Street. This puts you at a transportation hub within walking distance of Rockefeller Plaza, Bryant Park, Times Square, and Central Park. I can recommend the Hyatt Grand Central as a mid-priced, clean, attractive option.

If you’re after lower prices, you can opt to stay in New Jersey or Brooklyn, or anywhere outside the middle of Manhattan. The trade-off is more time spent on the train or subway. I like to pack my sightseeing days full of sights, walking out the door of my hotel and being right in the middle of the hustle and bustle. Figure out what’s best for you.

3. Decide On The Iconic Attractions You Want To See

While your interests will determine how you fill your time in New York City, there are three iconic sights that will top your list on your first trip.

The Statue of Liberty National Monument . Lady Liberty, recognized around the world as a symbol of freedom, stands waiting to welcome you to New York. Before you go, think about whether you want to take the boat out to the island and see the statue from her pedestal. Or are you fine with taking the free Staten Island Ferry and getting a close-up view from the water? Do you also want to go to nearby Ellis Island, where immigrants were brought and processed into the U.S. for years? You can get tickets to see both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Allow basically a morning or afternoon to do the joint tour.

The 9/11 Memorial and Museum

Built where the Twin Towers once stood, the 9/11 Memorial and Museum honors those lost in the terror attacks of September 11, 2001. Be prepared for an emotional experience .

If you are short on time, you can visit just the memorial pools outside the museum. Allow at least 2 hours for the museum.

Central Park

This famous green oasis covering more than 800 acres calls to visitors and locals alike. Stroll along the tree-lined paths or relax on the grassy lawns of North Meadow and Sheep’s Meadow. Marvel at the lovely curves of Bow Bridge. And visit the Imagine memorial to John Lennon.

If time is limited, enter the park at the south end and wander as long as you can. There’s more to see than at the north end of the park. Download a map or app of the park so you can easily find the points you most want to see.

4. Discount Passes May Save You Money

For your first trip to New York City, consider an attractions pass. This can save you money, especially if you plan to visit the most popular places. Basic options include:

All-Inclusive

These are for a set number of days. Fit in as many attractions as you like in that time. Some come with skip-the-line perks. Two to look into are the Sightseeing Pass and the New York Pass .

Number Of Attractions

These are for a set number of attractions, such as three or five choices from the options given. If you know what you most want to see, these are a good kind of pass. One to consider is The Explorer Pass .

Pre-Packaged Passes

You don’t have a choice of which attractions are included. But many of the most popular are included. Check out the CityPass , which is a booklet of six tickets

Do a cost comparison with what you want to see between having a pass and no pass to find out whether you want to invest in one.

5. Choose Where You Will Take In The City Views

The vastness of New York City never ceases to amaze people. And taking in a view of the city from above is a must when you visit. Not only do you see the density of the buildings but you have the water, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty to spy on from up high. Here are four main places that feature a panoramic view. Book tickets ahead of your visit to get the time of day you prefer. If you can choose two of these viewing sites, book one in the daytime and the other at sunset for views of NYC in all lights.

The Edge is an outside platform 101 stories up, and it literally hangs off the edge of the building. You see West Manhattan and south to the Statue of Liberty. The angled glass walls allow you to lean out over the city. And there’s a glassed section of ground where you can stand and look straight down at the city below.

This is my favorite of the city view places. After you get over the strange sensation of feeling like you’re on the brink of falling 100 stories to the sidewalk, it’s quite exciting. And the views are certainly breathtaking.

Top Of The Rock Observation Deck

From the top of Rockefeller Center, you can take in views of Central Park and Manhattan Midtown from 70 floors up. And from the Top of the Rock you can clearly see the Empire State Building. That’s one reason some people recommend this one if you are choosing just one view site. And with indoor and outdoor viewing decks, you can stay inside if it’s cold or rainy.

Empire State Building

This grand symbol of New York, the Empire State Building , is billed as the “world’s most famous skyscraper.” Get your ticket and ride the elevator to the 86th floor, where you can look out at the city from the 360-degree observatory. See the Brooklyn Bridge, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty.

If you choose, you can include a visit to the 102nd floor as well. Here are floor-to-ceiling views that can cover up to 80 miles away on a clear day.

Summit One Vanderbilt

The newest entry into fantastic NYC viewpoints is the Summit . The entrance is inside Grand Central Station. It does have a view of the city, and it also has other floors with mirrors and shiny objects. It’s an experience that goes beyond taking in the city sights. Take a look at the website and see if it’s something you want to do. 

6. It’s Okay If It’s Rainy Or Very Cold

As your trip gets close, check the weather. If it looks like a day of rain or extreme cold is coming, no problem. Plan for amazing indoor options. A few top picks:

Metropolitan Museum Of Art

This world-class art museum offers so much to see that you could easily spend days here. Not only does it display art from different historical periods and countries, but also the architecture of the building alone is worth a visit.

Like the Louvre in Paris and the British Museum, the Met can be enjoyed in short sessions. Plan for a morning or a few hours. Then, look at the online information about the exhibits. Choose two or three areas that fascinate you and start there. You will likely want to return to see more!

American Museum Of Natural History

This grand museum has been around for 150 years. While it’s a great way to keep young ones in your party busy and happy, I’ve found as a grown-up that I love natural history displays.

Popular exhibits include the brown bears in the North American Hall of Mammals, the massive blue whale model that measures 94 feet, and the huge Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton.

New York Public Library

This imposing building is a great place to shelter from the weather. The stately lions standing guard on the front steps are named Patience and Fortitude. The architecture inside the library is noteworthy. And it’s free.

7. Wear Comfortable Shoes

You may think of New York City as a fashion mecca and figure you need to dress up. But while there are upscale stores and elegant restaurants, for sightseeing, you don’t need to be fancy. You will walk and walk and walk. And that’s the best way to experience New York. So, wear comfortable shoes or flat-heeled boots. And it may be surprising but rest assured that casual clothes are fine for Broadway shows and most restaurants.

These tips touch on some things that can make your trip easier and more fun. With a bit of planning, you will enjoy your time in New York. I’m betting you’ll want to return for more incredible experiences in this fascinating city.

Go over to our New York City category to find out more about the Big Apple:

• 9 Best Places In New York City To Escape The Crowds
• 10 Best Spots To Try New York City Pizza, According To The Locals
• 10 Luxe Lounges To Visit In New York City

As the owner of the travel blog, Exploring Our World , Sharon enjoys taking her readers on a journey with her. Articles often delve into the history of a place, and by adding in a generous number of photos, she inspires others to explore for themselves. In her early travels, she was most frustrated by coming back home and learning that she had missed a fascinating sight or a hidden gem. Now she helps travelers prepare for a trip by passing along travel tips, pointing out lesser known things to see, and alerting them to enjoyable day trips from major cities.

Her travel articles have been published by Stripes Europe Newsletter and the World War 2 Writing and Research Center. Whether she's discovering more about her hometown of San Diego, California or flying to faraway places, she enjoys sharing with travel lovers around the world.

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Describe a Big City You Would Like to Visit

Posted by David S. Wills | Sep 23, 2022 | IELTS Tips , Speaking | 0

Last week, I posted a series of sample answers to writing task 2 questions from Cambridge IELTS 17 . Today, I will give you my answer to a speaking part 2 question from that same book. It asks you to describe a big city you would like to visit .

In this article, we will analyse the cue card, plan our answer, and then see how to give a band 9 response to it.

Table of Contents

The cue card: describe a big city, vocabulary for describing cities.

Here’s the cue card that appears in Cambridge IELTS 17 :

Describe a big city you would like to visit. You should say: – which big city you would like to visit – how you would travel there – what you would do there and explain why you would like to visit this big city.

I think that this is quite straightforward, so there isn’t much to analyse. However, due to the stress of the exam, people often make silly mistakes, so let’s go over what you need to do and say.

Most importantly, the place you describe must be:

• a big city (ie not a small city or a big town)
• somewhere you want to visit (ie not somewhere you enjoyed visiting in the past)

This probably seems very easy, but it’s important to answer the question properly and not to overlook important details by reading the cue card too quickly.

Aside from those points, you should also aim to answer the bullet points. This is a bit less important and you can certainly answer them in any order, but it is worth trying to talk about each of them, even if briefly.

Planning your Answer

When you are given the cue card, you will have one minute to prepare your response and then you should speak for between one and two minutes. That means you don’t have much preparation time.

You need to quickly pick a big city to talk about. Don’t weigh the various options or you will waste time. Just pick one and think about how to describe it.

You then need to think about what you want to say. The bullet points can help you here. In this case, you will think about how you would travel there, what you would do, and why you would like to visit this city.

Again, you don’t need to answer these in the same order as the bullet points appear. You can also put two bullet points together if needed. I think that “what you would do” and “what you want to go” are basically interlinked.

You don’t really need to go into a lot of technical detail about cities, but it would be useful to know some vocabulary for describing them. Here are some words and phrases that might help you:

Of course, this is just a small list and the actual vocabulary that you use will be entirely dependent upon what city you want to talk about. For example, you’d need different language to talk about Tokyo, Beijing, Venice , and Paris. It is a good idea to always be specific and not just use generic vocabulary.

You can learn some vocabulary about buildings and architecture here .

My Sample Band 9 Answer

To be honest, I’m not really a “big-city person,” but the one that springs to mind is Tokyo, which of course is the capital of Japan. I’ve actually been there before, but it’s so vast that I would love to go back and see more of it and the surrounding areas.

Tokyo is fascinating because it’s such a vast and diverse city, and, like much of Japan, it is modern almost to the point of being futuristic. It is unlike any other city in the world and even each of its districts has a totally unique feel.

If I went back to Tokyo, I would fly in because I don’t live in Japan. There are at least two airports that I know of and from there you can use the mass transit system to get into the middle of the city… although actually Tokyo is so big that maybe it doesn’t really have a centre.

In the city itself, there are loads of fascinating places to see, such as the Meiji Shrine and the Shinjuku Gardens. There’s also nearby Mount Fuji, which would make for an excellent day trip.

Of course, Tokyo is a huge draw for foodies like myself. There probably isn’t a city in the world with the quality and diversity of food that you can find in Tokyo. There are also pubs with their own interesting characteristics, which covers nightlife as well.

Altogether, I would love to go back to Tokyo and explore this incredible city further.

I started with the phrase “big-city person.” We sometimes use expressions like this to denote liking something. For example, “I’m a cat person” or “I’m not really a dog person.” It refers to liking or not liking those things that come before the word “person.”

Other useful language here included:

• springs to mind  
• surrounding areas
• vast and diverse city
• a huge draw

Note that I mentioned having been to Tokyo before, but this does not pose a problem because the cue card did not say anything about a prior visit. I also explained clearly that, although I had been before, I want to go back. That’s the most important thing.

I felt that the bullet points weren’t massively helpful because the first could be answered in a second and the last two points are basically the same thing. As for how you get there, it’s not exactly something you could talk about at length. Instead, I just focused on what I would do and how I would get there.

Finally, I ended with a small and natural summary. This is a really useful structure and is better than just suddenly stopping in the middle of a thought! You can learn more about how to answer part 2 speaking questions here:

About The Author

David S. Wills

David S. Wills is the author of Scientologist! William S. Burroughs and the 'Weird Cult' and the founder/editor of Beatdom literary journal. He lives and works in rural Cambodia and loves to travel. He has worked as an IELTS tutor since 2010, has completed both TEFL and CELTA courses, and has a certificate from Cambridge for Teaching Writing. David has worked in many different countries, and for several years designed a writing course for the University of Worcester. In 2018, he wrote the popular IELTS handbook, Grammar for IELTS Writing and he has since written two other books about IELTS. His other IELTS website is called IELTS Teaching.

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32 Safest Cities for First-Time Travelers

Written by Becca

Updated on April 26th, 2024

What are the best safe cities and safe destinations for first-time travelers? If you're traveling on your own for the first time, check out this list of easy safe cities to travel to.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Table of contents

• Taipei, Taiwan
• Chiang Mai, Thailand
• Hoi An, Vietnam
• Penang, Malaysia
• Tel Aviv, Israel
• Medellin, Colombia
• Mexico City, Mexico
• Merida, Mexico
• Cusco, Peru
• Cartagena, Colombia
• Arequipa, Peru
• Buenos Aires, Argentina
• Cordoba, Argentina
• Cuenca, Ecuador
• Tallinn, Estonia
• Dublin, Ireland
• Lisbon, Portugal
• Porto, Portugal
• Prague, Czech Republic
• Riga, Latvia
• Madrid, Spain
• Brooklyn, NY, USA
• Washington, DC, USA
• Montreal, Quebec, Canada
• Calgary, Canada, + Banff National Park
• San Francisco, CA, USA
• Boston, MA, USA
• Miami, FL, USA

Congrats on your first time traveling! (Yay!) A while back, we were first-time travelers, too.

It can be overwhelming to be taking an adventure somewhere with a new language, currency and culture. Whether you’re going alone or with a friend, safety is surely a concern. During our travels, we always keep safety in mind as a top priority.

If you’re ready to open your mind to new experiences, check out these ideas for some of my preferred “safe” destinations. See why we think the cities in this list, which might surprise you, are a safe bet your trip.

Safest Cities in Asia for First-Time Travel

Language barriers and cultural norms aside, Asia is a very low-crime region. Asia is great for first-time travelers who are very open to experiencing cultures far from home, if you come from North America or Europe.

It’s hard to say why exactly cities in Asia are so low-crime, but chances are that mostly every city in Asia is safer than your home city in the US or somewhere in Europe.

See our picks for the safest hassle-free cities in Asia for first-time travelers.

Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei, Taiwan is a wonderful city. The first things that come to mind when we think of Taipei is ‘incredibly safe’ and ‘extremely clean.’

Even if you do not speak Chinese, Taipei is a fine city to get around. The entire metro system has English, and most businesses, cafes and coffee shops , restaurants and all tour agencies will have English services in central areas.

Taipei and all of Taiwan are fantastic for a digital nomad home base , stopover destination or week-long trip, with tons of safe and simple things to do.

Taipei has essentially no crime at all . In three weeks, we felt completely safe at all times. We had no doubts at all about our safety, which was a nice welcome from cities in Latin America and Europe where we had to watch our pockets and bags.

Recent politics and political unrest aside, Hong Kong is an incredibly safe place to visit as a traveler, tourist or digital nomad . English is widely spoken in central and downtown areas, and this is because English is one of two official languages in Hong Kong, the other being Cantonese. It’s hard to take a bad photo in Hong Kong’s aesthetic urban scenery .

Hong Kong is easy to get around because of an incredible metro system that connects the city. In addition to the metro, called the MTR, there are networks of buses, mini-buses, light rail and taxis. There’s always a way to get where going in Hong Kong, even if you are on your own.

There is virtually no petty crime in Hong Kong, and it’s safe for women travelers.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

I went to Chiang Mai in early 2012 for the first time, and since then, it has exploded in popularity for expats and digital nomads. Travelers find Chiang Mai friendly, safe and easy to navigate due to widely-spoken English. Chiang Mai is the second-largest city in Thailand after Bangkok and has a lot of travel value, from temples and culture to treks outside the city.

You’ll find that it’s also one of the best destinations for solo travel .

Travelers rarely experience any crime, harm or discomfort in Chiang Mai. Travelers have been visiting Chiang Mai for years, and so the tourism infrastructure is excellent. Additionally, because of the growing expat and digital nomad community, there’s always someone to help with directions or tips.

Macau is like the Portuguese version of Hong Kong. That’s because, much like Hong Kong, which was ‘rented’ from China by the British, Macau was colonized by the Portuguese.

Macau is small, which is how it’s a nice place for a day trip from Hong Kong or a trip of its own if you’re in the Far East. Macau is known for its casino scene, but watch out — this is no Vegas, because it’s where the high-rolling Mainland Chinese go to try their luck.

Aside from casinos, enjoy the old colonial architecture and plazas, and a cool Portuguese-Chinese Macanese cuisine.

Compact and easy to get around by walking or boat between its islands, Macau is a calm and safe place. You’ll never hear anyone talking about crime.

Hoi An, Vietnam

Traveling in Vietnam is one of our favorite things about our year of full-time travel as digital nomads; however, I went to Hoi An with friends in 2011. It has changed since then, when it was a pretty sleepy riverside town with a lantern festival, and now it’s a mainstay on any Vietnam itinerary.

Hoi An is beautiful, and when you walk down by the river and all the shops, hotels, hostels, bars and cafes, you’ll see lots of travelers and even expats. It’s a laid-back picturesque town where you can slow down and enjoy.

Again, no real crime here in Hoi An. It’s a small city, with the nearest airport in Da Nang. English is widely spoken in any establishment that serves travelers, tourists and expats, and you can link up with other hostelers or backpackers.

Penang, Malaysia

I was totally charmed by Penang, Malaysia, for its mix of cultures, incredible food and beautiful shuttered buildings from centuries past. I traveled in Penang with another female travel partner Madeleine (she’s from Sweden!) and we experienced no crime at all.

In fact, the only ‘harm’ we experienced as a duo was Madeleine’s ‘fake sunscreen’ she had purchased in India (not Malaysia)… and that got her quite the burn. On the day during which she was under the weather, I spent time with a solo female traveler from the US, whom I met where we were staying, at the Old Penang Guesthouse on Love Lane in the colonial quarter.

Penang has grown in popularity with tourism and travelers, but has not lost its relaxed cultural charm. You can let your guard down here and focus on having a good time, as the locals don’t bother visitors much.

Maybe you saw the movie “Crazy Rich Asians,” and if you did, you know that Singapore is a modern metropolis and mixing pot of cultures. It’s hot and steamy all year round with tons to see packed into a small island in Southeast Asia.

Singapore is a super safe city with very little crime. You hardly need to worry. The food is amazing in Singapore, and I traveled their as a solo female!

Singapore has lots of laws and regulations that make crime very rare. The city is meticulously clean and organized and English is one of four official languages. Crime is extremely rare and there are no threats to travelers.

Tel Aviv, Israel

Tel Aviv is an incredible mix of East and West. Located on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, it is the most liberal city in all of the Middle East.

Here, you can eat to your heart’s delight, with local flavors of falafel, pita, laffa, hummus and shawarma, to name a few Israeli delicacies. There’s a hopping nightlife scene, with live music and festivals often. TLV is LGBTQ+ friendly, too, hosting an annual Pride parade and more.

Stay in awesome hostels like Abraham Hostel , where you’ll meet lots of travelers, both alone and not alone, both first-time travelers and experienced globetrotters.

Thousands of travelers to go Tel Aviv each year and experience very few inconveniences. If you have been put off by reports of unrest in Israel in the news, you can believe what you see, but … take it with a grain of salt.

Attacks are rare in Tel Aviv and most armed conflict is limited to Gaza and the northern regions. You can enjoy a trip to Tel Aviv and its surrounding areas with little worry. Also, there is lots of security, especially at the airport.

Safest Cities in Latin America for First-Time Travel

Latin America might be intimidating for first-time travelers. English is much less widely spoken than in places like Southeast Asia (it’s true!) and Europe, and cultural norms of ‘machismo’ (strong masculinity) can be off-putting for solo female women.

I will tell you though, that after traveling solo in China, Hong Kong and Thailand, traveling as a solo female in Costa Rica was where I chose to have my first Latin American experience… on my own! By this time, I was a semi-seasoned traveler, not a first-timer, but I do assure you that if you’d like to travel in Latin America for your first time leaving your home country, it won’t be a problem.

Medellin, Colombia

Don’t skip over this section, and forget everything you’ve heard about Medellin, Colombia ! This hilly, green and tropical Colombian city is an easy place to travel, thanks to an influx of tourism and openness to visitors. It may be easier to visualize this city after seeing our photos of Medellin !

In Medellin, stay in El Poblado, and try divine Colombian coffee at street-side cafes like Pergamino . Then, take group tours like the free city walking tour and the City Transformation Tour to learn about the city, while in good hands of a guide.

Walking around El Poblado, the most popular district of town for backpackers and travelers, stay in a hostel with good security and meet others in order to travel as a group. Everyone’s friendly and wants to have a good time! If you’re wondering about specifics on safety, check out our Medellin safety guide , which covers a range of safety topics.

English is widely available in areas like El Poblado, and English tours are readily available as well in order to join a group and learn about the city’s history or culture with an experienced guide. Keep an eye on your pockets and don’t flash your smartphone around, and you’ll be just fine, like we were (twice in three years).

Mexico City, Mexico

If you’ve ever as much as had a conversation about food with us, you know we love Mexico City for its food scene and tacos . Mexico City is also a place where we’d suggest forgetting everything you have in your mind, if what you have in your mind is a dirty city filled with drugs and crime.

Quite the contrary — Mexico City has endless things to do for travelers. We also have this handy guide to safety and scams that you can use during your trip.

Mexico City has wow-ed us both (mostly because of the food), but incredibly, because of safety. If you want an easy way to see the neighborhoods, use our Mexico City cafes guide to find yourself in residential areas that are home to expats. If you want to hop on a food tour like Eat Like a Local , this is an ideal way to be guided around.

Lastly, stay at a hostel like Selina CDMX which is digital nomad-friendly and has a coworking space .

We didn’t experience any crime in Mexico City in 45 days, and you likely won’t either if you take standard precautions of being in a big city. Watch your wallet, phone and bag, and look both ways when you cross the street and you should really be just fine.

Merida, Mexico

Another Mexican city with (we’ll prove it!) Mexico’s lowest crime rate is the city of Merida on the Yucatan Peninsula.

Merida is the safest city in Mexico and is a great idea for first-time travelers because it has modern and Western conveniences, set in a beautiful landscape of pastel buildings. It’s also an excellent choice for escaping a cold winter at home .

In Merida, you’ll find tons of great places to stay and lovely day trips you can do with a guided tour from end to end, like this one to the ruins of Uxmal .

Merida is very relaxed, and there is even hardly any instances of pickpocketing. We think Merida is a great recommendation for anyone who wants a first-time trip to Latin America that checks all the boxes of scenery, culture, history, food and fun.

Plus, if you’re into coffee, Merida has a great cafe and coffee shop scene . If you’d like to spend some time working remotely, let us refer you to the coworking space Conexion 60 .

Why does Lima, Peru make a great destination for first-time travelers? First, this is where you can get Pacific sunsets at the Malecon , try Peruvian-Chinese cuisine and of course, plan your travel to the rest of the incredible country of Peru. Don’t forget to go sand-boarding in Huacachina !

Should safety be a concern? Well, Lima is a big, big city, and it would be a lie to say the entire city is unsafe.

However, for your intents and purposes and for travel value, all points of interest in Lima are very safe. Again, in parts of Lima like the Centro Historico, keep your hand on your bag and don’t flash your phone or super fancy gear, but that goes for any developing country or big city. Having a handle on Spanish for visiting Lima is a great idea, so if you’re already there, give Lima a shot.

We never felt bothered in Lima, even walking around after dark. We kept to safe areas like Barranco, San Isidro and Miraflores and never got into any trouble. If you play it smart, you’ll experience 0 crime like we did, over the course of 30 days.

Cusco, Peru

Cusco is the gateway to all things Inca and Andean, and it’s an incredible place to start a trip for visiting Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley and other ancient Incan sites.

Cusco itself is a splendid place to stay a while, from its frequent parades and other points of culture, to the effortless vistas of the valley, green hills, colorful homes and clear skies. Also, you can hang out in super fun hostels and try incredible cuisine. What’s not to love?

Cusco gets lots of tourists and travelers, and by lots, we mean 3.5 million per year. It’s fair to say you wouldn’t be the first to do anything you’re trying to do or see in Cusco — someone has always done it before you, and whether you speak English, Hebrew, German or French, there’s probably going to be a menu for you in your language at a restaurant near the city square.

In any case, Cusco is friendly and welcoming for travelers, so stay a bit longer than expected, and you’ll acclimate to the high altitude.

Cartagena, Colombia

I hope you’re still into the idea of traveling in Colombia, which is one of our favorite countries. Cartagena is another place in Colombia that has a personality of its own, and that’s because it’s the gem of the Caribbean.

That’s right - culture in Cartagena is very different from culture in the big capital city of Bogota and the Antioquian city of Medellin. Cartagena is downright tropical, with colonial architecture in pretty colors, lots of seafood, bars to hop around at night and beaches nearby.

With new nonstop flight paths from places like NYC direct to Cartagena , you can only imagine that tourists are coming in high numbers. There are lots and lots of travelers in Cartagena, so you’ll never be alone, and within the walled city and historic center, there’s always someone to ask for directions.

Your only concern should be petty crime, and to beat it, keep your valuables close and always watch your pockets (better yet, keep most of your valuables at your hotel or hostel) and know that in both our two visits to Cartagena, we experienced no crime.

Arequipa, Peru

Arequipa is a charming Peruvian city nestled among three (yes, three!) volcanoes that provide picturesque surroundings. The culture here is notably different than cultures in Lima and Cusco, so it is worth checking out and taking some tours offered by your hotel or hostel.

From Arequipa, you can head off to the Colca Canyon (bigger than the Grand Canyon — can you believe it?) and explore the historic streets, churches, cafe and restaurants.

By this point we sound like a broken record, but again, no crime here! If you stay smart, stick in groups, speak some Spanish and use your street smarts, you’ll be A-OKAY in Arequipa.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires is a charming city where we felt like we could spend a long, long time. Buenos Aires and the surrounding region are very European-influenced, so some parts of Buenos Aires will remind you of Spain or Italy, with all the cafes on the sidewalks . That’s not a bad thing!

Beyond the pasta and pizza, Buenos Aires has a lot of soul. That starts with tango dancing, and continues into its street markets, famous cemetery (see it to believe it) and cafe culture in Palermo. Swoon!

Because you won’t feel so out of place in Buenos Aires, as it’s a Western-feeling city where no one really stands out, it feels safe as soon as you walk out the door of your accommodation. It is a big city though, and without branding it as “South America!”, the fact is that you may be pegged as a tourist with money.

Keep your phone in a safe place, never leave it on the table when you’re dining at a table out on the street and use your street smarts. Seriously though, Buenos Aires is super safe and we’d go back in a heartbeat.

Cordoba, Argentina

Cordoba is Argentina’s “second city,” and it has a smaller-town feel when you compare it with Buenos Aires. People in Cordoba are VERY proud of their city, and will make frequent mention of the various universities that give the city its character.

From Cordoba, you can check out the Sierras , or hill regions, to the north and west. This is worth a road trip!

In Cordoba itself, you can visit the university campuses, check out the nightlife, try cuisine from all around South America and practice Spanish for sure. Cordoba is a great place to get some grilled meats, or parrilla, and to spend the day walking around.

Cordoba doesn’t have much crime. We didn’t experience any. People were very helpful when we asked directions and nothing really stands out as big concerns like scams or traveler rip-offs. More than anything, Cordoban people seemed happy that we were visiting their city and had ventured outside Buenos Aires!

Cuenca, Ecuador

Cuenca is so, so charming in terms of places to visit in Ecuador. While you will probably stand out here as a visitor, that’s okay!

Get your bearings with taking some time to breathe (deeply) and beat altitude sickness. Then, explore the colonial charms of this town, and take a trip to Cajas National Park. You won’t regret it!

Walking around in Cuenca, even alone or at night, are perfectly fine things to do. Visitors are coming in greater numbers than ever, to experience Cuenca’s charm. If you stay at a popular hotel or hostel, you’re sure to meet others with whom you can explore. I experienced no crime nor bothers in Cuenca, and so I wholeheartedly recommend.

Safest Cities in Europe for First-Time Travel

Tallinn, estonia.

Tallinn is a beautiful Baltic city with proximity (relatively) to Finland and the water. There’s English everywhere, and charming medieval fortress walls that surround a bunch of Old Town. The Old Town itself is home to countless cafes and restaurants, and there are lovely vistas of the old churches from various points in the fort walls.

Tallinn sees virtually no crime. Locals keep to themselves. Everyone speaks English. The city gets pretty quiet at night. Tallinn is typically seen as “super chill” because of its laid-back atmosphere. It’s also most “Western” of the Baltic cities, setting it apart from Eastern Europe.

To head onward to the other two Baltic nations of Latvia and Lithuania, you can book a bus tour like we did, with the Traveller Tours Tallinn-Riga route.

Dublin, Ireland

Dublin is a cozy size for being a Western Europe capital city. As a visitor, you’ll of course go to Temple Bar and Trinity College, both big landmarks with big names and long histories. Dublin is very walkable, and as it’s Ireland , everything’s in English! There are more and more businesses setting headquarters and European offices in Dublin, so now there’s an influx of business, money and non-Irish residents.

Irish people are very kind and friendly, and also helpful. There’s also rarely any crime in Dublin, and you’ll feel right at home… but watch out, because they drive on the left, so always look both ways — twice!

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is hands-down one of our favorite cities in Europe, and while Dan spent a month there with Remote Year , we’ve been back as a couple. There are new developments in Lisbon all the time, from the traveler scene to the expat scene. There are great new venues for live music, bars, cafes and neighborhoods to see, and there’s lots of English. The architecture is gorgeous, the museums are awesome and there are great photo ops to be had at every corner.

Lisbon has hardly any crime, so it’s great for first-time travelers, solo travelers and female travelers. Travelers are rarely bothered by crime, and we’d feel comfortable walking around at night in most areas, even alone.

Porto, Portugal

Porto is a beautiful city with a bit more of a moody mood than Lisbon. It’s worth seeing because of its location near the sea and the Douro River.

Did you know that it’s also the birthplace of Port wine? In fact, Port wine is only Port wine if it comes from Porto! You can head across the beautiful bridge, see the sunset and then try wines at the wineries in the town of Gaia.

Porto is used to having lots of visitors for all the reasons above. There’s very little crime and few reasons to have any problems, as a visitor or tourist. English is widely spoken, locals are helpful and transportation options are plentiful.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague has many personalities, ranging from its tourist-centric Old Town (looks like a movie set) and famous Charles Bridge to its residential areas of Vinohrady and Riegrovy Sady Park . For staying, try MeetMe23 , a cross between a boutique hotel and a posh hostel (poshtel) and be in the center of it all.

I felt very safe walking around Prague, as I took Dan on my do-it-yourself tour of the best photo spots in Prague . It’s a gorgeous city and if you stay in the traveler-friendly areas, it is unlikely that you’d experience crime or safety threats.

Prague gets LOTS of visitors every year, and the city is used to hosting them. There is a very low level of crime, and your biggest worry should probably be brushing past too many photo-snapping tourists in the Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí).

Riga, Latvia

Maybe you’ve never heard of Latvia , or maybe you want to go. Either way, Riga is a city with a pastel-colored fairy-tale style Old Town that’s popular with Eastern European visitors and travelers from other parts of the world as well.

Things like beer and food are affordably-priced, the local cuisine has lots of fresh northern fishes and there are lots of hostels.

Riga is a transit point for lots of the Baltic region, so if you’re in the area, you are bound to pass through. Plus, Latvian traditional dancing and singing is fantastic! Try to stop in during a festival.

Latvia is a very safe place to travel. We spent nearly a week in Latvia and experienced no crime at all. If you’re feeling cautious, you can avoid walking around past dark, but in the winter, that’ll be hard to do because the sun sets so early!

If you’re on your own, go during the longest months of the year (June and July) for some epically-late sunsets at 10:30 pm.

Madrid, Spain

Madrid is a pretty city with lots of parks, history and culture, and it’s a good alternative to Barcelona if the crowds and prices are off-putting for you.

If you’re traveling in Europe or transitioning to another region, you might even have a layover in Madrid , during which you can see some top sights.

We thought that the Templo de Debod & Parque de la Montaña with its views were some of the most unique spots. Locals are friendly here, and there’s a whole list of pretty neighborhoods to see.

Madrid seems to be surprisingly laid-back for a capital city, and with 6.5 million people, that’s pretty impressive. There’s a great metro system, a good bit of English to help you around and lots of travelers in all the popular places.

Our best advice is to watch your pockets , as those pickpockets you’ll find in Barcelona are present in popular areas like La Rambla. Be cautious and mindful of your phone, avoid scams or talking to strangers trying to sell you something, try not to look lost, and you should be OK.

Safest Cities in North America for First-Time Travel

While it may seem scary or stressful to visit a big city (even the biggest cities) on your own for a solo trip, the fact is that big cities are easier to travel in than small cities.

Why do we think bigger cities are easier? First off, there’ll be more hostels and a larger array of accommodation. In NYC, for example, there’s a type of accommodation for every budget (even couch-surfing — that’s free!), and you can often be well-connected via the subway even if you’re outside Manhattan. With smaller cities, you may need a car to get around, and that becomes an added expense to stomach by yourself when you’re solo.

Big cities also have lots of things to do, and a wider variety of tours to hop onto if you’re alone and want to be with other travelers. See our suggestions below for cities in North America that suit all types of travelers.

Brooklyn, NY, USA

Forget what you might’ve seen on TV or read in a book — Brooklyn is a lovely place to go for vacation and for first-time travelers.

For travelers, it’s important to know that Brooklyn is even more diverse than most major cities on Earth, from its hipster neighborhoods to its Mexican, Chinese, Russian and Central Asian immigrant enclaves. See this borough through its awesome cafe scene , restaurants and parks.

If you want to eat your way around Brooklyn, take the subway all over and explore with your stomach. If you want to shop, head to Williamsburg. If you want to see a beautiful East River Sunset, head to Brooklyn Bridge Park and walk around Brooklyn Heights’s historic mansions like a local.

Brooklyn is safe because no one stands out for looking different, there are millions of visitors, and no one will bother you. It’s simple: the majority of Brooklyn where points of interest are located and where we recommend you stay, eat and see nightlife, are perfectly safe to visit. As a disclaimer, the parts of Brooklyn that are not safe are the ones where no one will recommend for you, so do your research and you’ll enjoy!

Washington, DC, USA

Washington, DC, is for everyone, whether you’re a first time traveler looking for an easy place to travel solo , or if you’re taking a trip with friends or a significant other.

The things to do in Washington, DC, range from seeing the incredible museums of the Smithsonian Institution on the National Mall, to seeing DC’s famous monuments — the Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial — by day or by night.

For a more local taste of DC, head to DuPont Circle, the center of liberal life, Adams Morgan, for a hip nightlife, food and cafe scene, and H St. Northwest, one of the city’s newest developed areas, which now has its own strip of bars, food and activities.

If you have time to venture onward, check out Alexandria, VA, or Bethesda, MD, both accessible by DC’s metro system that links the suburbs with the city center and is very easy to navigate for first-timers.

More than ever, DC has lots and lots of safe areas. The only areas to avoid are those in the northeast (NE) quadrant where you likely wouldn’t find much touristic value (and don’t book an Airbnb there).

Anywhere labeled “NW” for the northwest quadrant will be completely fine. Note that the metro closes at 12:00 AM on weekdays and 3:00 AM for Friday and Saturday nights.

Montreal, Quebec, Canada

Montreal is a beautiful city that provides an easy first-time travel experience. It’s very safe, and there’s history at lots of turns. Do you speak French? You’ll be in luck, because Montreal is pretty “French.”

Be sure to sample Quebecois food like poutine, and catch street performers doing their tricks and dances. There’s hardly any crime in Montreal, which makes it a fairly stress-free trip to take for both first-time travelers and experienced ones.

Montreal does not have many safety problems and your trip should go off without a hitch if you take regular precautions as you travel.

Calgary, Canada, + Banff National Park

Calgary is a city that gets its fame for having access to Banff National Park, one of the most pristine places on the planet. Well, now with all the attention it’s gotten in recent years for its turquoise lakes and glacial landscapes, you can expect things to change soon.

Calgary is a modest city with friendly locals who are pretty well-connected with nature, and they sure know how to survive a Canadian winter, where temperatures drop below freezing frequently during late fall to early spring and daylight hours during winter are few. In the summer, on the other hand, enjoy daylight that lasts until nearly 11 pm and reasonable temperatures that make hiking feel great.

Canada as a whole isn’t really known for being dangerous, and you can go worry-free to Calgary as a first-time traveler. Within Banff National Park, you’d probably be better suited to focusing on safety from wildlife rather than crime from people! My sister had a too-friendly chipmunk jump onto her lap trying to steal her granola bar.

San Francisco, CA, USA

If your wallet can handle SF’s high prices, it’s worth a visit to see this beautiful and historic yet newly-changed city on the US West Coast.

SF gets lots of visitors for a reason — places like Lombard Street, the Haight, the Mission and the Painted Ladies are a slice of culture that are part of the Californian fabric.

People in SF are very used to visitors and travelers. The city is easy to get around, with lots of options for mass transit (maybe too many?… we get confused reading the maps).

There is one single area to avoid, and that’s the Tenderloin, an area of the downtown and city center region that’s known for shady characters, drugs and people up to no good, but they’re pretty confined to this postage-stamp sized district.

Boston, MA, USA

Boston is a compact city that’s really lovely. If you like history, especially as it pertains to the Revolutionary War and the people who built America, head to Boston to follow the Freedom Trail.

Boston is very good at tourism. Much of the city is walkable and friendly to tourists. Visit beautiful architecture and colonial mansions in Beacon Hill, the gorgeous scenery of Boston Common and even Boston’s mini Chinatown, which has its own arch and eateries.

Boston is safe for first-time travelers because it’s safe at night in residential areas and neighborhoods where you’d be bound to find accommodation, like in Back Bay, near Newbury Street and near the universities.

Miami, FL, USA

Miami is a fun destination for first-time travelers who want to see another face of the US, and of the state of Florida. If you haven’t been to Miami, check it out, whether on your own (I’ve been there as a solo female traveler and also as a trip with friends) or with a crew or partner.

Miami is a place where you can almost feel like you left the US. Your Uber driver may speak more Spanish than English. The weather is never really cooler than 60 F most of the winter (steamy in summer, though). The pastel art deco architecture of South Beach will have you charmed, and you won’t want to put down your camera.

Is Miami easy to travel on your own? Sure! There are hostels in South Beach where you can stay in a dorm and meet other travelers. Check out Freehand as the top rated hostel in Miami!

Places of interest in Miami are safe for travel, and you won’t be bothered, nor will you stand out as a visitor. The only place to avoid is Downtown Miami late at night, as there aren’t many people around (this is the business center of the city and is not so residential).

In Brickell and South Beach at night, you’ll be quite fine, and during the day, visiting places like the Wynwood Walls, Calle Ocho and Cocoa Beach are all completely safe for visiting, even on your own.

Ready to travel on your own for the first time, or with a partner ? Don’t forget our checklist for what to do before you leave home for your adventure!

Looking for new proven ways to save money on flights and airfare? The easy solution is to sign up for Going , the leading way to find flight deals and mistake fares, directly to your inbox. Use HALFHALF20 to get 20% off!

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Home » Travel » Destinations » 17 Must See Cities For Your First Time in Europe

17 Must See Cities For Your First Time in Europe

Narrowing down the must see cities for your first time in Europe is a daunting task. In a sprawling continent full of grand cathedrals, romantic cityscapes, and decadent dishes, how do you choose where to go?

Planning your first European trip is equal parts exciting and intimidating. The possibilities are endless, but your time probably isn’t.

Unless you’re embarking on a Grand Tour à la 18th century upper-class gentlemen, you’ll need to make some hard choices about what to see and skip.

To make things easier, I’ve hand-picked my 17 best cities in Europe for first time travelers. Each of these destinations encompasses the “European experience”–stunning architecture, iconic sights, historical significance, and of course, mouth-watering food.

I’ve also organized the list by geography. If you make smart use of the continent’s trains and low-cost airlines, it’s possible to squeeze every location on this list into a six week trip (though I wouldn’t recommend it).

Whether you have a week or an entire summer for your first time trip to Europe, you can’t go wrong with these cities.

RELATED: How to Create a Travel Vision Board That Inspires Adventure

I may be a little biased seeing as I live in London , but The Big Smoke is undeniably a must see city for your first time in Europe. With 2,000 years of history, 60+ Michelin-starred restaurants, and countless cultural attractions, there’s something for every type of traveler in this metropolis.

Here are some unmissable London sightseeing experiences:

• Get a unique history lesson and gawk at the Crown Jewels at The Tower of London
• Enjoy afternoon tea with a magnificent view over London at The Aqua Shard
• Marvel at the beautiful architecture of St. Paul’s Cathedral
• Visit the tombs of English monarchs and important figures at Westminster Abbey
• Explore the city’s incredible free museums, from the National Gallery to the Natural History Museum

Use my 4 day London itinerary to explore the city’s highlights and hidden gems.

Like many travelers who came before me, I fell in love with Edinburgh instantly. There’s something magical about the city–and it’s not just because of all the Harry Potter locations! The combination of grand Gothic buildings, cozy cafes and pubs, and hilly landscapes is unlike any other place in Europe, especially during October .

These are some of my favorite things to do in Edinburgh:

• Soak up the views and Scottish history at Edinburgh Castle
• Pick up some shortbread and tartan accessories along The Royal Mile and Candlemaker Row (a.k.a. Diagon Alley)
• Take a royal tour of Holyroodhouse Palace (a must at Christmas time)
• Pop into a live music pub for an evening of entertainment with a side of fish and chips
• Warm your belly with a Scotch tasting at The Scotch Whiskey Experience

Check out my 2 day Edinburgh itinerary to plan your perfect trip.

Amsterdam has a serious reputation for partying (you can probably figure out why). But even quiet introverts like me will find plenty to love about The Netherlands’ capital city. The whimsical facades, canal bridges, and trendy cafes are an Instagrammer’s dream, and culture buffs can spend their days in the iconic art galleries and museums.

Put these activities on your bucket list:

• Take a leisurely stroll around the 9 Streets area for amazing canal views
• Experience the city’s architecture by boat in a small group or private tour
• Enjoy a stroopwafel over coffee in the cozy Jordaan neighborhood
• Explore the trendy cafes, shops, and thrift markets of the De Pijp district
• Set aside a day to properly explore the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Anne Frank House

Use my 2 day Amsterdam itinerary to navigate the best of the city.

Brussels doesn’t end up on most lists of must see cities for your first time in Europe. And I think that’s a mistake! With three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, famous street foods, and picture-perfect cobblestone alleys, Brussels is far more than the stuffy capital of the EU.

Here are some quintessential experiences:

• Have your mind blown at the aptly named Grand Place
• Giggle at the peeing ( pis ) statues scattered around the old town
• Stuff your face with Belgian waffles, frites, and the finest chocolate in Europe
• Marvel at the impressive architecture, from the Palais de Bruxelles to the Palais de Justice (yes, that Insta-famous one with the big staircase)
• Choose from over 2,000 types of beer at the sprawling Delirium Café.

In case you need more justification, Brussels is located on the Eurostar line that connects London, Paris, and Amsterdam, making it an easy stopover during your first time trip to Europe. And thanks to its status as an international business hub, you can rely on English rather than French to get around the city.

Read my one day Brussels itinerary to plan your whirlwind visit!

Paris is always a good idea. It’s one of the first places I visited in Europe, and its uniquely Parisian charms keep me coming back again and again. You’ll never forget the feeling of seeing the Eiffel Tower for the first time, or tasting your first French croissant.

Include these activities for an unforgettable trip:

• Catch an Eiffel Tower sunrise at the Trocadero
• Go up Sacre Coeur, Montparnasse, and/or the Arc de Triomphe for stunning panoramic views
• Wander the photogenic alleys of Montmartre and Le Marais with a fresh crepe in hand
• Explore the gorgeous architecture of Sainte Chapelle, Musee D’Orsay, Palais Garnier, and the Louvre
• Take time to explore Paris off the beaten path

Check out my 4 day Paris itinerary for more inspiration.

Tens of millions of tourists visit Spain’s second largest city every year. And it’s easy to see why. Who could resist the mix of historic buildings, foodie havens, vibrant nightlife, and pleasant oceanfront weather?

Here are some popular things to do in Barcelona:

• Visit the iconic Gaudi landmarks: La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and Casa Milà
• Ramble around La Rambla, the city’s shopping and restaurant hub
• Be dazzled by the 13th century Cathderal of Barcelona
• Relax next to the ocean with a drink from the famous beach-side bars
• Snack the afternoon away in the diverse tapas bars

With so many tourists visiting Barcelona each year, the city is suffering from overtourism . If you plan to visit this city during your first trip to Europe, try to avoid the summer months and only stay in registered accommodation.

Porto is hands down one of my favorite cities in the world, let alone Europe. Known for its stunning coastline, UNESCO World Heritage sites, delicious food, and azulejo tile buildings, I have no doubt you’ll fall in love with this Portuguese gem. Just be sure to pack good walking shoes, because you’ll be hiking up and down many hills as you explore everything the city has to offer!

Put these activities on your Porto bucket list:

• Get your fill of the iconic blue and white azulejo tiles at the Church of Saint Ildefonso, Igreja do Carmo, and São Bento Station
• Stuff your face with Pastel de Natas, Francesinhas, and Sande de Pernils
• Take a scenic walk or bike ride along the river up to the rocky ocean beaches
• Meander through the twisting alleys of the Ribeira, a colorful UNESCO World Heritage neighborhood
• Watch the sun set behind the city skyline with a bottle of port wine at the Jardim do Morro

Read my 2 day Porto itinerary to help plan your visit.

Save me for later!

I’ll be honest–there’s really only one reason I had to put Cologne on this list of must see cities in Europe for your first time. And that reason is the Cologne Cathedral. Words cannot describe how impressive this 13th century masterpiece is, especially the way it towers over the landscape below.

That being said, there are plenty of other amazing things to love about Cologne:

• Watch the sunset from the famous Hohenzollern Bridge
• Wander the beautiful streets and pastel-painted buildings of the Old Town
• Sample the city’s iconic Kölsch beer and German dishes in one of the many brauhauses
• Live out your Willy Wonka fantasies at the Chocolate Museum
• Unwind with the locals in the Rheingarten

Cologne is also home to some of the best German Christmas markets , including a jaw-dropping spread in front of the Cathedral.

Use my two day Cologne itinerary to navigate the city’s best bits.

Bustling Berlin is a great city for your first time in Europe. Thanks to its multicultural population, you can fully enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife, renowned beer and food scene, and important cultural and historical heritage without speaking fluent German.

Here are some can’t-miss experiences:

• Be amazed by impressive architecture, from the Brandenburg Gate to Berlin Cathedral
• Spend an unforgettable evening hopping nightclubs–famous ones include Berghain and YAAM
• Check out some quirky Berlin museums like the Currywurst Museum and Magic Museum
• Take a street art tour of the city’s many murals
• Make a sobering trip to the Holocaust Memorial and Berlin Wall
• Take advantage of the amazing free things to do in Berlin

Check out this local’s guide to Berlin for more tips!

If fairytale cityscapes are your thing, you’ll be pleased with Prague. Nicknamed “The City of a Hundred Spires“, Prague is packed with Medieval, Gothic, and Baroque architecture. Anyone who loves the romantic feel of Paris should put Prague on their list of must see cities in Europe for their first time.

Here are some highlights:

• Bask in the charming European atmosphere of the Malá Strana neighborhood
• Marvel at the Astronomical Clock and stunning architecture surrounding the Old Town Square
• Get picture-perfect views of Prague at Letna Park, Old Town Hall Tower, and the Charles Bridge
• Live out your storybook dreams inside Prague Castle
• Soothe your soul at a classical music concert inside the city’s grand venues, from the Estates Theater to St. Nicholas’s Church

Few cities in Europe possess as much old world charm as Vienna. It’s a place of opulence, elegance, and culture, with an overwhelming amount of gorgeous sites to explore. After you’ve walked the streets at night surrounded by twinkling lights and live opera music, Vienna will earn a place in your heart forever.

These are some of my favorite things to do:

• Walk in the royals’ footsteps at Vienna’s numerous palaces (Belvedere, Schonbrunn, and Hofburg are most famous)
• Indulge in fancy coffee culture at the gilded Cafe Central
• Climb the south tower of St. Stephen’s Cathedral for unparalleled views over Vienna
• Dress up for an elegant evening at the renowned Vienna State Opera or Musikverein
• Get your ‘Gram on while exploring the cobblestoned Spittelberggasse and MuseumsQuartier areas

Plan your visit with my 2 day Vienna itinerary !

Venice has topped the bucket list of first time Europe travelers for centuries–it was a key location of the Grand Tour, after all. And it’s no surprise, given the former merchant Republic’s unique cultural history, sumptuous architecture, maze-like alleys, and awe-inspiring canals.

Here’s how to make your visit unforgettable:

• Get lost (yes, that’s right!) in the narrow alleys of Cannareggio, Venice’s historic Jewish quarter
• Relax with a cappuccino and a gelato in a campo (town square)
• Watch the sunset over the Grand Canal from atop the Ponte dell’Accademia
• Experience some of Italy’s best architecture at St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the Basilica dei Frari
• Take a private gondola ride–or an affordable vaporetto–to see the city from water level

People may call Venice a tourist trap, but that doesn’t need to be your experience. Use my 2 day Venice itinerary to navigate the highlights and hidden gems of the canal city.

Were you expecting to find Rome on this list? Italy’s capital city is wonderful, but you can get all the charm (and better food) without the hordes of tourists in Bologna. Lavish cathedrals, colorful facades, mouth-watering dishes, and a relaxed vibe combine to make Bologna a favorite among travelers in the know.

These are my favorite experiences:

• Eat your way through Italy’s culinary specialties at the medieval Quadrilatero market
• Indulge in a daily (or twice daily) gelato from Cremeria la Vecchia Stalla and Cremeria Santo Stefano
• Visit the Santuario Madonna di San Luca–and do some Bologna sightseeing along the way–via a charming mini-train
• Stare in amazement at the grand interiors of Bologna Cathedral, Santa Maria Della Vita, and Basilica di San Petronio
• Get your culture fix at the many museums, from the Archeology Civic Museum to the National Art Gallery

Read my 3 day Bologna itinerary for more inspiration!

Thanks to the uber popular Game of Thrones series, Dubrovnik was thrust into the spotlight. However, there’s more to this stony city than iconic filming locations. The gem of the Adriatic sea has all the trappings of a picturesque European destination, from flower-laden cobblestone alleys to 700-year-old monasteries.

Add these items to your Dubrovnik bucket list:

• Walk along the UNESCO World Heritage Walls of Dubrovnik that surround the city
• Take a tour of the Game of Thrones filming spots
• Get a birds-eye view of Dubrovnik from the Mount Srđ cable car
• Grab a drink in front of crashing ocean waves at Buža II
• Explore the city’s many grand religious sites, from The Cathedral of the Assumption to the The Church of St. Blaise

Greece’s idyllic islands draw millions of tourists a year. But it would be a mistake to blow past Athens on your way to the ferry docks. The cultural significance of the Acropolis alone is enough to put Athens on your must-see list, though there’s plenty more to enjoy in this ancient capital.

Here are some must-have experiences:

• Step back in time at the Acropolis
• Pick up some unique souvenirs and delicious street food in Monastiraki, one of the city’s oldest districts
• Stroll alongside wild goats and peacocks in the once-royal National Gardens
• Wander the crumbling alleys and miniature squares of the Plaka, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited neighbourhoods
• Take a hike (or cable car) up Lycabettus Hill for impressive views over Athens

Rainbow-colored facades, innovative restaurants, an outdoor amusement park… What’s not to love about Copenhagen? Whether you’re a photographer, a foodie, or just after some Scandinavian vibes, Copenhagen deserves a stop on your first time in Europe trip.

Check out these quintessential activities:

• Take a zillion photos of the colorful Nyhavn harbor district
• Enjoy a whimsical afternoon at Tivoli Gardens
• Pull back the curtain on royal life at Amalienborg Palace and Rosenborg Castle
• Go for a boat ride along the canal and coast
• Nab a coveted seat at Noma, one of the world’s top restaurants

Stockholm was one of the very first cities we visited in Europe after moving to London. We based the trip on its reputation as a cool city break . But we quickly learned there’s more to Stockholm than minimalist furniture and Fika breaks.

Here are some of my favorite things to do:

• Stroll along the Strömma for beautiful waterfront views of the city
• Explore the curving alleys and whimsical buildings of Gamla Stan and Katarina Sofia
• Go for a relaxing walk through the peaceful Djurgården
• Check out the unique museum exhibits, from art to ABBA to warships
• Watch the sun set behind the city at the Skinnarviksberget

Read my one day Stockholm itinerary for more ideas.

I hope you found some inspiration in this list of must see cities in Europe for first timers.

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6 thoughts on “17 Must See Cities For Your First Time in Europe”

I agree with all of your choices. Such incredible European cities.

Thanks, Nicola! It was hard to narrow down the list with so many great cities in Europe to choose from.

Pass on Barcelona and go for vibrant Valencia instead or perhaps gorgeous Sevilla!

Those are excellent swaps to make!

Why not Rome, Madrid, Budapest or Oslo?

Those are all wonderful cities! I specifically swapped Bologna for Rome because I feel Bologna offers Europe first timers a better “Italy experience”.

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A First Time Visitors Guide to New York City

last Updated: May 11, 2022 new york new york city

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

First time to New York City?

Don’t fret – yes the city is large, intense, and intimidating at times, but it’s also exhilarating, surprising, and generous all at once.  You’ll leave both wanting to return and thrilled to be escaping from the madness.

A few common questions you may be asking yourself after booking that ticket:

• How will I get around?
• Is this an express or local subway?!?
• What should I do?!
• Why are there people dressed up as characters in Times Square?

First things first, how do you get around?!

You’ve just landed for the first time in New York City and don’t know what to do next.

Did you land at JFK?   Great!  That airport has awesome public transportation options.  Don’t let the cab drivers or uber drivers take your money for no reason.  From JFK, you can take the air train to the subway which will take you straight to anywhere you are staying.  Unfortunately, if you flew into LaGuardia airport, you are limited to either the bus or a cab in which case I would recommend a cab.

Now back to the subway .  Are you staying in New York for a bit?  If so, the MTA offers a day 7 day unlimited pass which might be a great deal for you.  I recommend checking out MTA Fares at A Glance  before your visit to help you plan. PS: The subway system will take you anywhere in the 5 boroughs for the same price of $2.75 – there are maps at each station which you can use to find your desired destination. 

Confused?  Ask the help of a local NYer (they’ll be the ones reading the paper and listening to music on their phones).  Residents get a bad rep – before I fully understood public transportation I used to ask people all the time if this train would take me to x, and 95% of the time I got a friendly response.

Now onto the fun stuff.  What to see and where to eat! 

Empire State Building

This is the most iconic building in all of New York City, and a visit to NYC wouldn’t be complete without witnessing this famous landmark. You can take a tour and go to the top, but personally, I would save that experience for Top of the Rock.  It’s  beauty at night (all lit up) and shouldn’t be missed!

Top Of The Rock

If you’re a fan of Saturday Night Live, 30 Rock, The Office etc., this is where it all starts.  You can visit the Top Of The Rock and I highly recommend it.  From there you can get a ridiculously amazing 360 degree view of the city.  I’m hoping to get back up there this summer!

Just make sure you view NYC from up above, from one of these three options below:

High Line Park 

This park is a few miles long and runs along the West Side of the city.  My husband and I actually took some of our engagement photos here and they came out great!  It is an excellent spot for people watching and photography, especially during the spring and summer months. Don’t miss all the quirky finds and murals hidden on nearby buildings! Most definitely one of my favorite of the many  cheap things to do in NYC !

Chelsea Piers Driving Range

If you are looking for a break that involves swinging a golf club, then the Chelsea Piers driving range is the perfect spot.  You can see the Statue of Liberty from this location –  double bonus!  Recommended by my husband as I’ve never been, but he claims it’s a great way to spend an afternoon!

Yankee or Met game

While both teams have moved into new stadiums, the games are still fun.  I would argue that Citi Field offers better food but the Yankees are a much better team. :p A must for your first time to New York City! On a hot New York night, it is the best – get some ice cream afterwards!

Times Square

The epicenter of NYC, and what you’ve probably seen on postcards when you think of New York’s bright city lights and skyscrapers.  Times Square changes everyday – but expect to see some characters dressed up (be prepared to pay for photos) and an immense amount of crowds. 

And if you’re traveling with children- hold their hand.  A fun place to wander for a bit – but I don’t suggest booking a hotel here or planning to eat anywhere around this area (super expensive for no apparent reason).

Broadway Show

Want to see a Broadway show at a discounted price?  Of course you do!  Take advantage of the TKTS booths in Times Square and pick any of them.  You can’t choose wrong. A must in NYC! Or plan ahead and learn how to find cheap Broadway tickets before your trip!

Little Italy

Mangia bene!  “Eat well” in Italian which is exactly what you can do here in Little Italy.  This area is filled with amazing sauce, delicious food (pizza or pasta, anyone?!) and even better cannoli’s (I’ve tested a bunch of them – so trust me on this). 😉  While were talking about food, make sure to get a cookie from Levain Bakery (pictured below), and eat as much pizza as you can handle (a few favorite pizza spots here ).

One my favorite places to go in New York is in Chinatown! Make sure you pay a visit to WoHop for a fun time.  Celebrities have been visiting this eatery for decades and continue to do so.  It never closes (truly the city that never sleeps!) and is always awesome.  Be prepared to wait on line for a table but it’s always worth the wait.

Central Park

What can I say about Central Park?  It’s perfect for visiting year round, and tons of activities are going on in every season.  Ice skate in the winter, wander during the summer, and visit the zoo and enjoy a stroll any time of year.  No visit (especially your first time to New York City!) is complete without a waffle from the Waffles & Dinges truck at the entrance on 59th street.  Best waffles ever.  Just go – trust me.

Katz’s Deli 

Vegetarians beware, this New York icon servers up sandwiches bigger than your head and is simply amazing.

Statue of Liberty

If you’re not into the history of it all and just want to snap some good photos, I recommend taking a cruise around the Statue of Liberty.  Another NYC icon you just cannot miss! And if you want a semi-thrilling experience (depending on where you sit), you can even take a NYC helicopter ride to see the Statue of Liberty and more!

Art Museums

New York is full of great art and fun museums.  Take your pick!  There’s the Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET), Museum of Modern Art (MOMA), Guggenheim, Museum of Natural History, and a bunch of others. For your first time to New York City, I highly recommend picking just one (or two if you’re a true art lover), and spend your remaining time outdoors!  However, if you’re visiting New York City in the winter , consider visiting more to stay out of the bitter cold!

Other Recommended New York City Attractions:

Are you planning your first time to New York City soon?!

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January 23, 2017 at 5:51 pm

I am thrilled to be taking my first trip to NYC in less than a month! I have been dreaming of going there for forever, and am overwhelmed by how much there is to see and do. Thank you for you list and ideas 🙂 It was incredibly helpful!

August 3, 2020 at 7:58 pm

I live in New York, and trust me it isn’t that great

August 6, 2020 at 10:20 am

What don't you like about NYC? I'm originally from there, but moved to SF!

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Describe a Big City You Would Like to Visit – IELTS Cue Card

Updated On Feb 06, 2024

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In the IELTS Speaking Cue Card task, you must speak about your own experience conversationally and successfully convey the important details on topics like ‘Describe a Big City You Would Like to Visit.’ Then, questions based on the topic and your  Cue card  answer, follow-up questions will be asked, which is  Part 3 .

It is vital to practise IELTS cue cards if you’re aiming for a high Speaking score! Many IELTS aspirants crucially lack pertinent speaking practice during their IELTS preparation.

Therefore, we have curated sample answers on the cue card topic – Describe a Big City You Would Like to Visit. You can learn how to answer   IELTS speaking cue card   questions by looking at the 3 given sample answers!

• Which big city you would like to visit?
• How you would travel there?
• What you would do there?

Explain why you would like to visit this big city.

Describe a Big City You Would Like to Visit – IELTS Cue Card Sample Answer 1

Which big city you would like to visit

To be honest, I’m not really someone who loves big cities, but the one that comes to mind is Tokyo, the capital of Japan. I’ve been there before, but it’s so vast that I’d like to go back and explore more of it and the areas around it. Tokyo is captivating because it’s a huge and diverse city, and, like much of Japan, it feels almost like it’s from the future. It’s truly unlike any other city globally, and each of its districts has a completely unique vibe.

How you would travel there

If I were to return to Tokyo, I’d take a flight since I don’t live in Japan. There are at least two airports that I know of, and from there, you can use the public transportation system to reach the heart of the city. Although, Tokyo is so massive that it might not really have a centre.

What would you do there

Within the city, there are many interesting places to visit, such as the Meiji Shrine and the Shinjuku Gardens. There’s also the nearby Mount Fuji, which would make for an excellent day trip.

Actually, Tokyo is a paradise for food lovers like me. There’s probably no other city in the world with the quality and variety of food that you can find in Tokyo. The city also has unique and interesting pubs, making nightlife equally enticing.

All in all, I would be thrilled to revisit Tokyo and delve deeper into exploring this extraordinary city.

Dive into our Speaking Preparation Tips now and supercharge your answers!

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Describe a Big City You Would Like to Visit – IELTS Cue Card Sample Answer 2

There are countless fascinating cities around the world, each with its unique charm and allure, and I would want to visit many of them. However, one big city that has always piqued my interest and captivated my imagination is Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan. For this topic, I would like to say why I want to visit this city, how I would probably travel there, and what I would like to do there.

To travel to Tokyo, I would opt for a combination of air travel and public transportation. I would book a flight to Narita International Airport, one of Tokyo’s major airports, and then utilize the efficient and extensive train system to navigate within the city.

While in Tokyo, I’d immerse myself in the diverse experiences the city has to offer. I’d explore historic landmarks such as the majestic Tokyo Imperial Palace and the serene Senso-ji Temple. I would also delve into the vibrant street culture by wandering through neighbourhoods like Harajuku and Shibuya, known for their fashion, entertainment, and eclectic atmosphere. Additionally, I would indulge in the culinary delights, savouring sushi at Tsukiji Fish Market and experiencing the uniqueness of themed cafes.

There are several reasons why I would like to visit Tokyo. Firstly, I am fascinated by the seamless blend of traditional and modern elements that define this city. From ancient temples to cutting-edge technology, Tokyo offers a remarkable contrast that I find intriguing. Additionally, I am drawn to Japanese culture, art, and cuisine, and Tokyo serves as a hub for all these aspects. Exploring the city’s vibrant neighbourhoods, trying authentic Japanese dishes, and experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the Japanese people are all factors that contribute to my desire to visit Tokyo. – paraphrase in easy language.

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Describe a Big City You Would Like to Visit – IELTS Cue Card Sample Answer 3

I come from a small town and haven’t had many chances to explore places outside my hometown. However, there’s one bustling metropolitan city that I’ve always dreamed of visiting—the capital city of India, New Delhi. Delhi, with its rich history, holds a special allure for everyone, and every corner of the city seems to have a story to tell.

From my town, Madurai I can easily take the train route or the flights. And, In New Delhi, one can find iconic structures like the House of Parliament, Connaught Place, and the Prime Minister’s Office. The city is adorned with monuments, historical buildings, educational institutions, and beautiful gardens!

On the other hand, Old Delhi paints a vivid picture of medieval India, showcasing many ancient buildings. The Red Fort and Jama Masjid are notable landmarks in Old Delhi. I’m eagerly looking forward to visiting these places that I’ve been learning about and watching from afar for a long time.

Apart from its historical significance, Delhi is also a thriving shopping hub. People from all over the country flock to the city to buy and sell goods. As a self-proclaimed shopaholic, I anticipate that this experience will be a fantastic one for me. So, I would definitely travel there.

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Describe a Big City You Would Like to Visit – IELTS Cue Card Part 3 Follow-Up Questions

• What are the most interesting things to do while visiting cities on holiday?

When holidaying in cities, there are numerous fascinating activities to consider. Exploring historical landmarks, cultural sites like museums and art galleries, and iconic monuments provides valuable insights into the city’s heritage. Engaging in activities such as walking tours, market visits, or attending cultural events allows for a deeper immersion in the city’s atmosphere, fostering a connection with its unique charm. Finally, interacting with locals and experiencing the city’s distinctive lifestyle can create lasting and memorable moments.

• Why can it be expensive to visit cities on holiday?

As for the cost of visiting cities on holiday, it tends to be higher due to the elevated cost of living in urban areas compared to rural regions. This discrepancy results in increased prices for accommodation, food, transportation, and attractions. Cities’ popularity as tourist destinations further amplifies demand, leading to higher costs for tourist services. Additionally, entrance fees to renowned landmarks and the necessity for advance bookings can also add to the overall cost of the visit.

• Do you think it is better to visit cities alone or in a group with friends?

The choice between visiting cities alone or with friends is subjective and depends on individual preferences and the purpose of the trip. Travelling alone can provide a more introspective and personalized experience, allowing individuals to explore at their own pace and indulge in personal interests. Conversely, travelling with friends offers opportunities for shared adventures, group activities, and the creation of lasting memories together. Ultimately, the decision rests on one’s travel style, desired level of independence, and preference for social interactions during the trip.

• Why have cities increased in size in recent years?

Cities have experienced growth in recent years due to several factors. One major reason is urbanization, where people migrate from rural areas to cities in search of better employment opportunities, improved living standards, and access to amenities and services. Economic development and industrialization also contribute to the growth of cities as they become centres of commerce, trade, and innovation. Additionally, population growth and demographic changes, such as increasing birth rates or immigration, can lead to the expansion of cities to accommodate the growing number of inhabitants.

We highly believe that the given IELTS cue card topic ‘Describe a Big City You Would Like to Visit’ with the expert-crafted sample answers would have been of much help! Kindly make sure to use your own vocabulary and style of speaking to grab that band 8 in the IELTS Speaking test!

Also Check:

• Describe Something You Bought That Was Difficult To Use At First – IELTS Cue Card Sample Answers | IELTSMaterial.com
• Describe a Difficult Challenge That you Completed/Met- IELTS Cue Card
• 50 Recent IELTS Speaking Topics 2023 Part 2 & 3 with Model Answers  

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Nehasri Ravishenbagam, a Senior Content Marketing Specialist and a Certified IELTS Trainer of 3 years, crafts her writings in an engaging way with proper SEO practices. She specializes in creating a variety of content for IELTS, CELPIP, TOEFL, and certain immigration-related topics. As a student of literature, she enjoys freelancing for websites and magazines to balance her profession in marketing and her passion for creativity!

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31 tips for visiting New York City for the first time

New York City is truly one of the most exciting cities on the planet. That famous skyline, the history, the food, the shows; it’s a place unto itself, with something for everyone of nearly every age. As one of the world’s great cities and with so many things to do in New York, the city can be a bit intimidating for newbies – we’ve been there. Our ultimate guide to New York City for first timers includes no less than 31 tips to help you start spreading the news and prepare to leave – if not today then whenever you’re ready to hit the Big Apple and be a part of it.

Things to do in New York City for first timers

Basic nyc tips for first timers.

Let’s begin with some tried-and-true advice. Don’t think you can do it all in one visit . It ain’t gonna happen. New York City is HUGE. And it’s packed to the skyscrapers with things to see, do and experience.

Choose your activities based on the length of your stay, whether it’s a long weekend, one week, or ten days. Choose your top 5-10 activities (we’ve got tips!) and plan your schedule accordingly.

Do not overbook activities or think you can do 4 museums a day. You can’t, and even more, you shouldn’t, it’s just too much. Same is true if you’re assuming that the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island won’t take most of the day. It will if you choose to visit both attractions.

The best way to get around is by walking or by taking the subway . Purchase a reloadable Metro Card at any subway station. NYC’s subway system is convenient and cost effective. You can get anywhere you need to go via the subway and borough transit lines. The bonus? Avoiding the worst of NYC’s traffic gridlock.

Buy a CityPASS if you’re going to visit many of the city’s major attractions. It’s one of our favorite travel hacks , as the NYC CityPASS includes entry to the Met Museum, Natural History Museum, Empire State Building, 9-11 Memorial, Top of the Rock, and the Intrepid Air, Sea and Space Museum. It will save you money and help you skip the long ticket lines.

Wear good walking shoes . On our recent visit we clocked nearly 30,000 steps per day. You will be walking to places, from places, and in places. Don’t ruin your visit by ruining your feet with bad footwear.

Book tours, hotels and shows as soon as you book your dates.  

Go see a Broadway show or play . Even if you don’t love musicals or theatre, Broadway is the best in the world. Don’t give away your shot of seeing the best there is – there’s a show for every taste.

Use the map below to search for hotel and short-term rental options

Top New York City attractions for first time visitors

Remember my advice in the first section? Depending on the amount of time you have on your first visit in NYC, choose your attractions wisely. You can’t do it all on a first time visit to the city, so pick from this list of 12 attractions for a great first taste of things to do in New York.

I can hear some of you asking, ‘ Can you combine attractions? ‘ Absolutely! You can do the Empire State Building in the morning, then visit Times Square and Rockefeller Center after lunch in the afternoon.

Be sure to stop in to Magnolia Barkery for a snack, then see a Broadway show in the evening. The option to return to Empire State to see the city lights at night is up to you.

Must see NYC attractions

The Empire State Building – This towering world icon Empire State Building offers breathtaking 360-degree, open-air views from its famous 86th floor observatory. Immersive and interactive new exhibit galleries on the second floor invite guests on a journey from the building’s construction to its current place in pop culture. If you get a CityPASS ticket , it gets you in twice. First visit during the day and again at night for incredible views of the city skyline during the evening.

Visit Times Square . It’s one of the best free things to do in New York . everyone needs to see it at least once, kitschy and crazy as it is.The center of it all. Times Square has changed a lot since we first visited in the 1980s, and for the better. It’s free and very pedestrian-oriented, which is good as it’s consistently crowded.

Go during the day and again at night if you can. Enjoy the vibe and be gobsmacked (and blinded) by the advertising and light displays. Tip: Stay away from the mascot figures roaming around the square. They’re not free and will charge for photos.

Walk through Central Park . New York City’s green heart is bordered by the expensive coops and skyscrapers of the Upper West and Upper East Sides. But anyone can enjoy a stroll through the Park for free, enjoying the playgrounds, ponds, castle, zoo, plays and attractions.

Central Park is a wonderful natural oasis. It helps visitors and residents escape from the concrete jungle that is New York City.

But wait, there’s more!

See a Broadway Show – Be sure to book tickets for a musical or play. See my tips below on how and what Broadway shows to book.

Metropolitan Museum of Art . Consistently voted as one of the top museums in the world . The Met is New York’s most visited museum and attraction. The Met presents over 5,000 years of art from every corner of the world for everyone to experience and enjoy.

If you’re visiting New York with kids , consider taking a special Fable and Lark tour of the Met to keep them engaged and having fun.

Natural History Museum . Explore human cultures, the natural world, and the universe. All with a visit to one of the world’s most famous natural history museums. Meet the Titanosaur, one of the largest dinosaurs ever discovered, in the museum’s fossil halls.

See world-renowned dioramas, the 94-foot-long blue whale, and the stunning Rose Center for Earth and Space. It features an 87-foot-diameter sphere that appears to float inside a glass cube. 

The Guggenheim – The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum celebrates 60 years as an architectural icon in 2020. Visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s “temple of spirit,” where radical art and architecture meet. Daily tours included with admission. Open seven days a week.

And we can’t forget these

9/11 Memorial & Museum . The powerful and emotional 9/11 Memorial and Museum is a somber place of respect and reflection. Experience a moment of quiet at the twin reflecting pools. Here, the names of every person who died in the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center are inscribed.

Examine the history and impact of the events and learn stories of loss and recovery. Note: This is an intense and emotional museum experience that may not be suitable for young children.

Rockefeller Center . John D Rockefeller was once the richest man in the world, and he built his complex in midtown Manhattan as an ode to his success. It’s the headquarters for entertainment giant NBC and many other corporations.

The Rock is also home to NYC’s famous Christmas tree, skating rink, and many other fun things to do in New York in December .

Entrance to Rockefeller Center’s Top of the Rock is included with a CityPASS. Here you can experience breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of New York City and beyond.

Walk the High Line . New York’s newest public park is a linear one. It’s built on a 1.45-mile-long elevated rail structure running from Gansevoort St. to 34th St. on Manhattan’s West Side.

Access is free and offers a wonderful view of the Manhattan skyline and Hudson Yards. Enjoy a free guided tour or just appreciate the gardens, murals, artwork and people-watching along the route.

As if that’s not enough

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island . Get up close and personal with Lady Liberty and the beauty and history of the Statue of Liberty National Monument and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum. Both are located in New York Harbor and accessible via ferry.

You can ride the Staten Island ferry to get a view of the iconic Statue. Or book a ride with Statue or Circle Line Cruises. Explore the grounds of Liberty and Ellis Islands, stand in the shadow of the Statue of Liberty, and learn about the rich history of immigration at what once was the nation’s busiest immigrant inspection station. Note: If you get off the boat to explore both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, it will take up most of one day.

Bryant Park and New York Public Library – Both of these city landmarks are free for visitors and offer different New York experiences for guests. The outdoor space of Bryant Park has chairs and amenities for visitors to enjoy at any time of year, including a Winter Village with skating rink and bumper cars on ice.

The New York Public Library is a beautiful Beaux-Arts style building with free wifi, places to sit and rest during a busy day. It also hosts free exhibitions, concerts and author talks and conversations.

Eat a street pizza, pretzel or hot dog from a vendor – I suppose this should be under food, BUT you really should eat one item from a food vendor on your visit. It’s very NYC.

How to get into New York from the airport

New York City is served by three international airports, one located in New Jersey and two located in Queens. Make sure you know which airport you’re flying into before you arrive so you can plan your route into the city.

Newark Airport

The Newark EWR Airport in New Jersey has an AirTrain that connects its terminals to the NJ transit system for a direct train into NYC Penn Station. The train is convenient, skips the street traffic and only costs $15 USD one way. It’s the best way to get into the city unless you’re traveling with a big group or lots of large luggage. Time: 30-60 minutes

I’ve taken Dial 7 car service from both La Guardia and Newark. Dial 7 is a luxury private car service that tends to be on the expensive side. But if you have a family of four or more and a lot of luggage, it may work out to be the same cost as transit for your party.

For La Guardia, there’s also the Via Rideshare service that’s partnered with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to launch “LGA Connect.” It provides travelers a ride from the airport to their destination in one of the five boroughs for a flat rate.

The program is part of the ongoing effort to alleviate airport congestion by offering convenient and affordable shared rides. Those traveling from LaGuardia to Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens will be able to get a Via for a flat rate of $15 and those traveling to Staten Island or the Bronx will be able to get a Via for $20. Time: 30-60 minutes

JFK Airport

In addition to Uber and cabs, you can get into New York City from JFK (which is in Queens) via the AirTrain from your airport terminal to Jamaica Station. From there, you can board the E train or the Long Island Railroad (LIRR) into the city. While the LIRR is slightly more expensive, it’s an express service into NYC Penn Station and will get you there a little faster than the subway. Time: 60-90 minutes

Where to stay in New York City for first time visitors

We’ve stayed in a variety of neighbourhoods during our visits to New York City, including; Chelsea, the Lower East Side, Midtown, and the Upper West Side. The location choice has depended on where we need to be most of the time to minimize walking and train trips.

For first timers to the city, Midtown Manhattan is a great location for a hotel base. The area has improved a lot in terms of hotel offerings, and is very central to Broadway theatres, Times Square, Bryant Park, the New York Public Library and Rockefeller Centre, as well as close to many Metro subway lines.

Keep in mind that NYC hotels are expensive and usually small, which makes it a challenge for families. That said, you don’t go to New York to stay in your hotel room, right?

The Best Western Plus Hospitality House on West 49 th is like a renovated apartment, with breakfast included and an in-suite kitchen and living room. There’s room to move for families, just like in an apartment. It’s modest but clean and very well-located. 

We’ve also enjoyed stays at the Benjamin , Westhouse and various Moxy Hotels in the city.

Click here for more New York City hotel options.

Top tours for first time visitors in New York City

Taking a tour is a great way for first time visitors to see the bright lights and big city that is New York. The Hop On, Hop Off bus tours are great to get a lay of the land, visit many city neighborhoods on one easy bus ride, and you can get off and on wherever you wish.  If you’re traveling with older family members, the chance to bus around town will be welcome.

There are New York City tours for every interest, taste, and budget. Got tweens and teens? Try the Ride , an immersive tour of the city with live actors, music and lots of audience interaction.

More interested in the history of the city? Take a Hamilton tour, learn about the immigrants who built New York at the Tenement Museum , or discover Hasidic Brooklyn with Tours by Frieda .

For fans of the many TV shows filmed in New York, book an On Location Tours and learn everything you wanted to know about the Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Sex and the City, or Gossip Girl.

There’s the NBC Studio Tour (a must for SNL and Today Show fans), Architectural boat tours, Scott’s Pizza Tours, Disney Musical Tours, Graffiti Tours, Fable and Lark Magical Tours of the Met Museum , etc. We could go on, but you get the picture. There’s a tour for everyone.

Where to Eat in New York City

The better question is where can’t you eat? New York City is filled with restaurants, food halls and street vendors selling everything from pretzels to hot dogs to halal kebabs. You can find anything here, so we’ve listed a few of our favorites below to get you started.

For our family, a stop at Shake Shack is a must. The shakes and burgers are delicious at each location (there are many in the city). We also love popping into Joe’s Pizza in Times Square for quick slice, and Eataly in the Flatiron district for Italian fare, and cocktails on their rooftop patio and bar. Ellen’s Stardust Diner on Broadway is great, though it is very popular and has long lines for its food accompanied by musical service.

The Smith Restaurant is a popular franchise that serves good food in white bricked surroundings. It’s very family-friendly and has a great brunch. Pret a Manger cafes are everywhere and perfect for quick and healthy bites. Bare Burger offers tasty beef and vegan burgers, where one side of the menu is animal protein, while the other side is plant-based. There are also loads of good ramen places if you’re craving a simple bowl of noodle soup.

Try a New York City Food Hall

New York is also home to some fantastic food halls. The Chelsea Market in the Meatpacking District has tons of food vendors to choose from in a busy former location of the National Biscuit Company.

Turnstyle is an underground market underneath Columbus Circle. Check out the Bolivian food, vegan choices and burger joints here. Gotham West Market has fabulous pizza and ramen in Hell’s Kitchen, and is a few blocks from the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum. In Midtown, check out City Kitchen at ROW NYC on the second floor, serving up donuts, lobster rolls, and more ramen.

New York City is famous for high end restaurants too. If you’ve got the budget, book a table at Babbo, Batard, any Jean-Georges, Samuelsson or Boulud restaurant in the city. 

Tip: We’re fans of the nybucketlist on Instagram. If you want to find out the latest art opening, food craze or secret speakeasy (like we did), follow this account for the latest and greatest of anything and everything in NYC.

What Broadway Shows to see in New York City

I’m a massive fan of musicals and theatre, and never miss the opportunity to see a show (or three) when I’m in New York. Any first timer should see a Broadway show too, in my humble opinion, as you’ll be watching some of the finest actors, singers and dancers on the planet. Why miss such an amazing opportunity?

If traveling with kids, check out of Broadway’s family-friendly musical shows. The Disney shows like Frozen, Lion King and Aladdin are great and highly-entertaining for all age groups. For the older kids, check out Mean Girls, Wicked, Hamilton (if you can afford it), Dear Evan Hansen and West Side Story.

For everyone else, there’s a Broadway musical or play out there for you, trust us. And if in doubt, get tickets for Come From Away, you won’t regret it.

How to Book Broadway Shows in New York

There are a number of ways to book Broadway shows. Our favorite is by booking directly online with the production and theatre if it’s a newish show, or through the free TodayTix App , which I LOVE.

With TodayTix, there’s no need to line up for tickets and waste your precious holiday time. See the App to find and pick the show, date and time, pay, and meet up with the red-jacketed Today Tix staff 30 minutes before showtime at the theatre. You can also enter ticket lotteries for same day tickets. It’s a fantastic service. You can also book show tickets via Broadway.com or Headout.com.

We’ve just scratched the gritty, gum-encrusted surface of New York City in this article. But as I’ve learned, successful visits to NYC involve taking little bites of the big apple each time you’re there. You’ll never be able to enjoy the entire thing all at once.

That’s why New York is New York.

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Disclosure: The writer thanks CityPASS for tickets that allowed entry to various attractions in New York City. As always, her opinions and love of NYC are honest and her own.

Credits: Claudia Laroye

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28. Describing an Event: MY FIRST VISIT TO A BIG CITY

Write a Paragraph in about 100-150 words on the following topic:-

Ans:                                         MY FIRST VISIT TO A BIG CITY

  I live in a small town. But last month I visited Delhi. It is the capital of India. It is a very big city. I was wonder-struck to see life in this big city. There is a big rush in Delhi. People are rushing from her, to there all day. The rush and traffic increase at about 9 A.M. When people go to offices, schools, and colleges. There is again a great rush at about six in the evening when people come home from offices. I saw big buildings in Delhi. The railway station and the bus stand are big and crowded. There are a number of cinema houses in Delhi. While loitering on the road, I felt thirsty. I looked for a tap or a hand pump but I found none. I was surprised to find that even drinking water is sold there. I visited the Parliament House, the Zoo, the Red Fort and the Birla Mandir. I heaved a sigh of relief when I returned to the calm and peaceful atmosphere of my small town.

Download the above Paragraph in PDF (Printable)

Want to read more:-.

11. Travelling by a State-Owned City Bus

12. Annual Sports Day of My School

13. Morning Assembly in My School

14. Your Experiences of a Summer Day in your City

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Planning a New York City Trip: Your NYC Itinerary Guide from a Local (2023)

Has New York City captured your imagination and now you’re knee-deep into planning a New York City trip?

You’re in the right place!

Whether you’re drawn to live here (like me!) or visit for the first or 100th time, there’s no denying the magnetizing pull to take a trip to New York City!

If you’re planning your first time to New York City, this guide has everything you need to know. And if you’ve been here before, this NYC trip planner will help you review the basics and give local tips to expand your New York City itinerary beyond the top sights.

From itinerary ideas with maps, tips on where to stay and eat, how to get around, and more, you have everything you need to plan a trip to New York City that you’ll never forget!

Planning a New York City Trip (Maybe for the First Time!)

Planning an NYC trip can be overwhelming! You’re trying to stretch your budget as far as possible while trying to fit as much in as possible with the days you’re in the city. In fact, how to plan a trip to New York City is one of the top questions I get from readers.

It’s best to break it up into steps so that ultimately you can plan a New York trip that includes your must-sees and dos arranged in an itinerary that maximizes your time in a fun and enjoyable way.

First, decide how many days you will stay in NYC. (More advice on this below.)

Second, choose a hotel in your price range. If your main goal is NYC sightseeing, the midtown east or midtown west areas of Manhattan are perfect spots. These areas are central to many top NYC sights and have many subway lines connecting through the area. Third, make a list of the top sights and museums you want to see, as well as experiences you’d like to have, i.e. go to a Broadway show. Depending on how many days you have in NYC and your budget, book your entry to as many things as possible in advance to maximize your time in NYC.

Lastly, you’ll want to plan an itinerary with the sights and activities on your list. Using the New York City itinerary ideas below, group what you want to see and do by neighborhood to limit backtracking.

Getting to New York City

New York City has 3 airports nearby, JFK , Laguardia , and Newark Liberty in New Jersey. If your flight arrives into JFK or Newark, it is possible to take commuter trains and/or the subway to get into NYC.

Visitors arriving into Laguardia, on the other hand, have fewer public transportation options, despite the airport being the closest to Manhattan of the 3 NYC metro area airports. If taking a taxi or car service from Laguardia, plan for (at least) an hour’s ride into Manhattan as the traffic can be horrendous in this area depending on the time of day your flight arrives.

I’ve created specific guides for each airport with all the information you need to decide how to get from the airport to your hotel in Manhattan.

• Newark Airport to Manhattan
• JFK to Manhattan
• Laguardia to Manhattan

New York City taxis are available at JFK and Laguardia. It’s a flat $70 fare from JFK plus tolls and tip. The fare is calculated by the meter for rides from Laguardia. The meter runs even when you are in traffic so the amount will vary depending on the time of day you arrive.

To save money, book a ride with the most trusted shuttle from the New York Airports. They’re comfortable, reliable, and far cheaper than a taxi. In addition to shared rides, they also have private car transport services.

You can also compare private car bookings with Carmel . They are another trusted and long-serving airport transfer service I’ve used and you can rely on.

If you live in the Northeast or Mid-Atlantic and are coming for your first visit to New York City, you’re better off taking a commuter train like Metro-North, NJ Transit, or Amtrak into the city. Penn Station and Grand Central Terminal (or Grand Central Station) are in the heart of Midtown Manhattan with subway lines connecting from directly within each station.

Or, if you don’t have a train station near you, take a bus directly to New York’s Port Authority Bus Terminal, just 1 block from Times Square.

How to Get Around in New York City

Driving and parking in Manhattan are a nightmare. Avoid driving to and in New York City at all costs.

The best ways to get anywhere in New York City are to take the subway or put on the most comfortable shoes and walk. (I own 2 pairs and wear them all the time to walk around NYC.) These also happen to be the cheapest ways to get around New York City so it’s a win-win!

Keep reading for more NYC subway tips.

And what about that pesky luggage?!

Of course, the easiest way to get around either by subway or on foot is without carrying heavy bags. Many subway entrances have only stairs and sidewalks, restaurants, and other attractions are likely to be crowded and even restrict luggage and other big bags.

So be sure to drop off your luggage at your hotel as soon as you can. Most hotels will securely store your bags even if your room isn’t ready for check-in yet.

Free of your bags, you can move around the city hassle-free, take in your surroundings, and focus on whether you should be heading uptown or downtown. 😉

New York City Walking and Subway Travel Tips

Think of New York City’s streets as a giant tic-tac-toe board across most of Manhattan. Except for lower Manhattan, streets run in a systematic, grid pattern . Here are a few tips to help you navigate the city like an expert pedestrian.

• Streets run horizontally from east to west, from the Hudson River to the East River. About 20 of these numbered streets are equal to 1 mile.
• Avenues run vertically from north to south. The distance between avenues is greater than streets. More or less, 7 avenues is equal to 1 mile.
• 5th Avenue splits the east side from the west side. Address numbers get lower the closer the building is to 5th Avenue and higher the farther it is away from 5th Avenue.
• Broadway is the exception. It runs diagonally, interestingly enough, following an old Native American footpath.
• As you walk south below 14th Street, the full grid pattern ends.

The New York City subway extends throughout the city. No matter where you want to go, it’s likely a subway line is heading in that direction. Here’s the subway info you need to know to look like a pro.

1. Download an NYC subway app or keep a PDF  to save on your phone. Everyone’s already looking at their phone so you’ll blend right in as you check the map for the right train or stop.

2. Know the difference between express and local trains. On the map, express train stops are marked with a white circle while local stops show a black circle. As the names imply, local trains make every stop. Express trains make select stops.

3. The subway or bus fare is $2.90 per person each way with free transfers between the subway and city buses.

4. All subway turnstiles are also equipped with a “Tap & Go” payment system . Using your phone’s wallet (i.e. Apple Wallet), you can tap your phone at the turnstile to pay instantly. Using this system, you can pay for 3 people plus yourself at one time.

5. If you use the Tap & Go payment system, pay with the same device and card each time . If you spend $34 within a 7-day period, the rest of your rides within that same 7-day period are free.

6. Metrocards can still be purchased and used on subways and buses. The larger automated machines in the stations typically accept cash, debit, and credit cards. But, the smaller machines are for purchases made with credit cards or debit cards only. (If you live outside the U.S., use 99999 as your zip code.)

7. You can buy pay-per-ride Metrocards or unlimited weekly or monthly passes. There’s a $1 charge to get the actual card before loading it with money or time. (Save the $1 and use the Tap & Go payment system instead.)

8. If you prefer to use a physical Metrocard and plan to ride the subway at least 12 times, the weekly unlimited pass will save you money regardless of how many days you stay in New York City. Unlimited passes are good for just 1 person, as you can only swipe it once every 18 minutes, except if you’re making a free transfer from train to bus.

One last thing to consider for travel within NYC…

B ike rentals are plentiful. I wouldn’t suggest riding along the streets on your first visit to New York City, but scenic rides along the city’s greenways and through parks are great ways to combine sightseeing and transportation.

ProTip: For more dos and don’ts in New York City, take a look at these important New York City travel tips !

New York City Itinerary Planning

When you plan a trip to New York City, the most exciting part is choosing which things to see and do while you’re here. But it can also be overwhelming! There’s an endless number of things to choose from and you only have so much time and money.

There are a couple of NYC itinerary ideas below to help you get started. They include some of the best New York City tourist attractions. You can also use this mega list of the Best 100 Things to Do in New York City for extra inspiration and ideas.

ProTip: You’ll also find a more specific day-by-day plan in this 4-Day New York Itinerary.

New York City Itinerary Idea #1 – Classic NYC Sightseeing

Times Square with its neon signs, bright lights, Broadway marquis, crowds of people, honking horns, and yellow taxis, all combine for a whirlwind welcome to NYC. Especially for first-time visitors to New York City, it makes sense to start at this iconic crossroads.

While you’re looking up, down, and all around Times Square, you’re sure to notice all the Broadway Theaters and the billboards advertising what’s playing. A TKTS Booth sells discounted tickets for performances on that day and the next. The TKTS app lets you know which shows have discounted tickets on sale that day.

If you’re set on seeing a particular show, though, it’s better to get your tickets in advance since there’s no guarantee the show you want to see will have discounted seats available.

Either way, seeing a Broadway show is an absolute must! It’s a quintessential New York City experience.

ProTip: Don’t waste time waiting in line at TKTS, and instead, do as the locals do! Come back to TKTS 30 minutes before show time. There are always some tickets available with practically no wait in line. Or go to the TKTS location near Lincoln Center. It’s much more civilized than the one in Times Square. Alternatively, try your luck in a Broadway ticket lottery, like this or this .

Walk east along 50th Street, crossing over 7th Avenue, then 6th Avenue, to reach Rockefeller Center. On your way, you’ll see Radio City Music Hall and maybe even a Rockette or two if you’re spending Christmas in New York City .

The plaza at Rockefeller Center hosts the Today Show and their summer concerts, as well as the 30 Rock Center skyscraper, home to the SNL studios and the observation deck at the top. When it’s winter in New York, you’ll find the iconic Rockefeller Christmas Tree and the ice skating rink.

Continue again east, out of Rockefeller Center, to 5th Avenue and see the striking facade of St. Patrick’s Cathedral , the largest Gothic Revival Cathedral in North America. Head inside to tour the cathedral on your own or with a guide.

When you’re done, you’ll be back on 5th Avenue, famous for its upscale boutiques and department stores, like Saks Fifth Avenue just next to St. Patrick’s. Walk along the avenue for a first-hand look at the busy combination of traffic, tour buses, and pedestrians.

Undoubtedly, one of the things you’ll want to do when you visit NYC is to get a birds-eye view over the city. Luckily, there are several skyline attractions nearby. You just need to decide which one(s)!

Summit One Vanderbilt is just off 5th Avenue along 42nd Street. It’s NYC’s most popular skyline experience. Combining glass exterior walls and mirrored walls, floors, and ceilings inside with the gorgeous city skyline, you’ll be immersed in the city views like never before. You’ll also get the best views of the Chrysler Building!

The Empire State Building is a classic NYC landmark that needs no introduction. There are observation decks on the top of the Empire State Building at 86th and 102nd floors, as well as historical and cultural exhibits about this famous skyscraper. If you choose the Empire State Building, head south on 5th Avenue (street numbers going down 50, 49, etc.) to 34th Street.

The Top of the Rock observation deck is on the 70th floor of 30 Rock right in Rockefeller Center. From this vantage point, you’ll get to see and photograph the skyline with the Empire State Building in it. To visit the Top of the Rock, return to Rockefeller Plaza.

Whichever you choose, you must purchase your tickets in advance. These attractions have timed-entry tickets that do sell out, especially during peak travel times like summer, holidays, and weekends.

Pro Tip:  While you’re in this midtown area, you should also consider visiting MoMA, the Museum of Modern Art , on W. 53rd St. between 5th and 6th Avenues. Bryant Park and the classic main New York Public Library building are on 42nd St. & 5th Avenue. Grand Central Terminal is a block away along 42nd St at Park Avenue. These 3 sites are just steps from Summit One Vanderbilt.

New York City Itinerary Idea #2 – Art, History, and a Classic Stroll

Several museums line the east and west sides of Central Park. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is along 5th Avenue at 82nd Street on the Upper East Side. It’s part of Museum Mile along with others like The Guggenheim and the Neue Galerie. While you’re there, head up to the roof terrace for a gorgeous view overlooking Central Park and the skyscrapers of midtown beyond.

The American Museum of Natural History , with its adjoining science center and planetarium, is on the opposite side of the park on 81st Street and Central Park West, close to the New York Historical Society. Both, the Met and the Museum of Natural History are both worthy stops whether it’s your first time in New York City or not.

From the Temple of Dendur to Impressionist paintings by Monet and Renoir at “the Met” and the Prehistoric Halls and ocean and mammal exhibits on display at the Museum of Natural History, these stops offer the quintessential NYC museum experience.

Choose 1 of these museums to begin your day. After a few hours, and likely the onset of some museum fatigue, head outside for some fresh air and a stroll through Central Park. You can even rent bikes to tour the park.

Central Park spans from 59th Street to 110th Street between 5th Avenue and Central Park West. Walk the pathways and discover Sheep’s Meadow, the Lake, and all the fountains, monuments, gardens, and bridges along the way.

In the area of Central Park between the museums, you’ll easily reach famed spots like the Bow Bridge and Bethesda Terrace and Fountain. To help navigate, download a Central Park app to show where you are in relation to the park’s popular sights.

Meander to the opposite side of the park from where you entered and walk toward whichever of the above museums you have left to visit. Spend your afternoon enjoying another of New York City’s incredible museums.

ProTip: Alternatively, if you’d rather only do 1 museum, head to the Met for the morning. After a couple of hours, explore Central Park. Then, venture into one of Manhattan’s most classic uptown neighborhoods for some of the best things to do on the Upper West Side .

New York City Itinerary Idea #3 – Exploring Lower Manhattan

Yes, Times Square needs to be seen, but it should also be left.

When you’re planning a New York City trip, it pays to take the subway down to Lower Manhattan and do a bit of exploring. Not only will you see some of NYC’s most famous sights, but you’ll also have the opportunity to see the oldest and most historic parts of Manhattan.

A few important and iconic sights should not be missed while you’re at Manhattan’s southern tip.  

The 9/11 Memorial and Museum remembers and reflects on the events and the lives lost during the terrorist attacks. The experience is emotional but poignant and so well-designed.

The reflecting pools are in the original tower footprints with the names of victims inscribed around the edges. The museum houses artifacts like a damaged firetruck and personal anecdotal accounts of the day. The memorial and museum simultaneously honor the fallen, inspire a sense of Patriotism, and encourage a continuing faith in the goodness of humanity.

ProTip: There are typically long lines to enter the 9/11 Museum, especially during peak travel periods. Save yourself a ton of time and book a timed-entrance ticket in advance. You can read more tips in this Visiting the 9/11 Memorial and Museum guide .

From this part of Lower Manhattan, It’s also a great opportunity to see the sweeping city and harbor views from the One World Observatory . Again, purchasing tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line is a smart way to maximize your time.

Head further southeast towards Trinity Church and the New York Stock Exchange. In this area, you can see where Alexander Hamilton is buried, walk along Wall Street, visit Federal Hall, and stroll through Battery Park. Along the way, look out for the Charging Bull and Fierce Girl statues, too!

From Battery Park, you can access boats to visit one of New York City’s most famous attractions, the Statue of Liberty. Take a boat ride tour to Lady Liberty or opt to pass by from a short distance on the free Staten Island Ferry. Either way, the views of Manhattan from the water are stunning!

If you take the boat directly to Liberty Island, your ticket will also include entry to the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, which is one of the most interesting museums in NYC!

End the day by walking across the  Brooklyn Bridge . This classic NYC stroll takes you along the pedestrian promenade in the center of the bridge. The views of New York City and its harbor are breathtaking. As you walk, wonder over how such an impressive structure was built before the days of power tools!

Pro Tip:  Many visitors like to head into Brooklyn and get pizza. I highly recommend going to Juliana’s . It’s just a few minutes walk once you go down the steps on the Brooklyn side of the bridge. I think it’s perhaps the best pizza in all of NYC!

New York City Itinerary Idea #4 – Discover NYC’s Neighborhoods

Whether you want to shop in Soho, see classic NYC in Greenwich Village, eat well in Chinatown, or gallery-hop in Chelsea, you’ll glimpse more of the “real” Manhattan by heading away from midtown’s more touristy spots.

The best part is that each NYC neighborhood has its own character, charm, and things to see and do!

There are so many things to do in Chinatown NYC that you can easily spend the better part of a day uncovering the neighborhood’s gems. Regardless of how much time you have, go with an empty stomach! Chinatown is overflowing with amazing eats from dumplings to dim sum, to noodles, and original Chinese ice cream flavors.

Greenwich Village and Chelsea neighbor one another from south to north along Manhattan’s west side.

No trip to New York City is complete without spending some time in “the Village.” There are so many things to do in Greenwich Village , but the neighborhood’s tree-lined blocks, small streets, and artsy ambiance are what draw locals and visitors to this classic New York City neighborhood.

Whether you want to people-watch in Washington Square Park, have lunch at a charming cafe, boutique-shop, visit famed TV and movie filming locations, or search for ghosts , you’ll fall in love with everything that is Greenwich Village.

Chelsea is home to the much-loved elevated urban greenspace, the High Line, which needles a pathway through the area. The views, street art, architecture, and ambiance along the High Line Park walk will leave you feeling like a true New Yorker.

If you’re coming from Greenwich Village, explore the cafes, beer gardens, and shops on your way to the High Line entrance at Gansevoort Street.

Be sure to stop at Chelsea Market for some gourmet bites whether you’re in the mood for tacos, noodles, or falafel. The market is just one of the many top things to do in Chelsea and an absolute can’t-miss! The neighborhood is also home to numerous art galleries and the fantastic Rubin Museum of Art.

And if you walk the High Line from south to north, you’ll finish in Hudson Yards, Manhattan’s newest neighborhood in midtown west.

How Many Days Do You Need in New York City?

To have time for NYC sightseeing, as well as time to enjoy museums, Central Park, and the city’s restaurants and theaters, plan to spend at least 4 days in New York City .

Of course, if you have less time, all hope is not lost! You can plan a trip to New York City with only 1-3 days but you’ll need to have realistic expectations, hyper-focus on your must-sees and dos, and plan an NYC itinerary that allows you to be swift and strategic.

When is the Best Time to Visit New York City?

Generally speaking, the best time to plan an NYC trip is in the Spring and Fall. In particular, April, May, and even early June come with good weather, flowers in bloom, and fewer people than during the summer months.

Similarly, Fall is a great time to visit NYC . September, October, and early November come with cooling temperatures, but the weather is typically the most beautiful of the year. You’ll also miss the rush of summer and Christmas season visitors.

Of course, if you want to spend Christmas in New York City , December is the best month to visit. The tree at Rockefeller Center is lit and midtown Manhattan sparkles from the holiday lights and markets. Just be prepared for big crowds. December in New York City is one of the most popular times of the year to visit.

Where to Stay in New York City

The best “planning a New York City trip” hotel tip is to be within comfortable walking distance of a subway station . From there, you’ll be able to access all the places you’d like to visit.

Generally, when looking for a great place to stay for an NYC trip, visitors focus on the east and west sides of midtown, as well as neighborhoods like Chelsea, Greenwich Village/West Village, and the Financial District in Lower Manhattan.

And while it may be tempting to stay a bit off the beaten path to save a little money, consider how much time you have in New York City and how comfortable you are navigating the subway.

Taxis, Ubers, and the like are expensive and can easily erase any savings you may get with a cheaper-priced hotel in a further off neighborhood. Similarly, if you only have a few days, you don’t want to waste time with a long “commute” to the sights and places you want to visit.

A word of caution! Airbnb is illegal in New York City despite the listings you may see that are available.

Do people book Airbnbs for their New York City trips? Yes.

Is it risky to book accommodations through Airbnb when you plan a trip to New York City? Incredibly! Anything can happen including the person who rents the Airbnb getting caught before your stay, leaving you without a place to stay.

For a detailed breakdown of the best places to stay in NYC, neighborhood by neighborhood, head over to my guide dedicated to hotels in New York City . Whether you’re looking for an upscale hotel room or you’re planning a trip to New York for first-time visitors, you’ll find the best hotels for your budget and needs.

For a quick glance at some New York City hotels, take a look at these native New Yorker-tested accommodations.

• Residence Inn New York Manhattan/Central Park
• Kimpton Hotel Eventi
• Hyatt Centric Times Square New York
• Conrad New York Downtown
• Grayson Hotel
• Hotel 50 Bowery
• EVEN Hotel New York Midtown East

You can also search for more great hotels on TripAdvisor,  on Booking.com , on Hotels.com , or find a few more affordable hotel choices here .

Where to Eat in New York City

I’m not a food critic, but I’m no stranger to a fantastic meal. If you’re looking to let your inner foodie out, I’ve listed some of my favorite places to eat in New York City with more than enough to make your taste buds smile.

Whether you’re looking for authentic Indian food or the best veggie burgers in NYC , New York City has an endless number of fantastic restaurants. Just promise yourself to stay away from tourist trap chains and fast food! You can get those anywhere. Instead, take advantage of NYC’s incredible food scene.

All of the suggestions below are based on my own unforgettable NYC eating experiences. (I’m hungry just typing these!) If you have your heart set on a specific restaurant, it’s worth it to make reservations ahead of time.

• Del Frisco’s
• Locanda Verde
• ABC Kitchen
• Juliana’s Pizza
• Russ & Daughters
• Any Classic NYC Diner
• Market Table
• Blue Ribbon
• Wafels & Dinges

Planning a New York City Trip FAQs

How do I plan my first trip to New York City?

To plan your first trip to New York City, there are 3 important steps to get started. 1. Decide how many days you’ll be spending in the Big Apple. 2. Choose a hotel in your price range, preferably in the midtown east or west areas of Manhattan. These areas are central to many top NYC sights and are well-served by numerous subway lines. 3. Make a list of the top attractions and museums you want to visit, as well as experiences you’d like to have, i.e. see a Broadway show. Depending on how much time you have and your budget, book your entry to as many things as possible in advance to maximize your time in NYC. 4. Group the things you want to see and do by area to maximize the time you have in New York City.

How much would a New York trip cost?

The cost of a New York City trip is up to you! There are hotels, restaurants, and experiences in all price ranges. However, “budget” hotels are still likely to cost more than budget hotels in other destinations, not to mention they’re far and few between. Expect to pay between $250-$300 a night for a mid-range hotel. Luckily, there are lots of free things to do in New York City like walking the Brooklyn Bridge, exploring Central Park, seeing the lights of Times Square, reserving a spot on a free walking tour, and riding the Staten Island Ferry for great views of Lady Liberty!

How do I organize my trip to New York?

Start with deciding how many days you’ll have and where you’ll stay. From there, you can logically group your sightseeing plans and experiences based on which neighborhoods they’re in so you can limit any backtracking.

What is the best way to see New York attractions?

Avoid waiting in lines by booking skip-the-line and timed-entry tickets in advance to as many NYC attractions as possible.

What is the most cost-effective way to travel NYC?

The most cost effective (and time effective!) way to travel around NYC is to use the subway. It’s quick, inexpensive, and can get you to nearly everywhere you’d want to visit in New York City.

What should I do for the first time in New York?

If it’s your first time in New York City, focus on the iconic sights and museums that interest you most. These are likely to be places like the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, the Met, Central Park, the Brooklyn Bridge, the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, Times Square, and Broadway.

Do I need cash in NYC?

Nearly everywhere you go in NYC, you’ll be able to use a credit or debit card. This even includes hot dog vendors and food trucks. So, there’s never a reason to walk around with huge amounts of cash in your purse or wallet. One place where you will need some cash, though, is Chinatown. Some restaurants and shops are cash only so it’s best to be prepared with some U.S. dollars when visiting this neighborhood.

What is the cheapest way to get around New York City?

The cheapest way to get around New York City is on foot! NYC is highly walkable and pedestrian-friendly. When you need to give your legs a rest or want to get someplace quick, take the subway. It’s cheap, fast, and covers almost all of New York City.

Planning a New York Trip?

No problem! Using the tried and true local tips and advice in this guide, you’re on your way to planning an unforgettable trip to New York City!

So, what are your questions about planning a New York City trip?

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112 thoughts on “planning a new york city trip: your nyc itinerary guide from a local (2023)”.

This was an awesome post! You have definitely added fuel to my desire to visit NYC! I might just have to find time to go after school gets out in June.

Thanks for sharing!

Thanks so much for reading! June is a great time to visit…before the summer heat! Hope you make it! 🙂

I’ve never been to US, but New York is one of my dream destinations since childhood. ( I know, what a cliche :D). Thank you for sharing your experience and advice!!! I will save this post for future with hopes I’ll get opportunity to visit this city soon)

Not at all! Living in NYC was my dream since I was a little girl. Any trip to the U.S. has to include a first stop in NYC, Natalia. I hope you can make it for a visit soon!

This is a fabulous guide for any trip to New York. well done!

Thanks, Brianna! 🙂

A complete guide to the Big Apple :). I wish I had this when I visited NYC. All things said, I always stayed out side New York, in New Jersey and take the train to NYC . I found the stay is less expensive outside NY.

Hoboken and Jersey City are excellent options in New Jersey for cheaper hotels, Vasu. The PATH train makes it quick and easy to make into NYC. Great tip!

Terrific post on what a first-timer should see in NYC. You did a great job culling what could have been a ton of information into an easy to read digest. Great work!

Thanks so much, Sue! It’s meant to be a “one-stop shop” for first-time visitors. 😉

Your posts are always so practical and helpful, Jackie. This is great for someone who doesn’t know New York. In fact, there are some great pointers for everyone – a great tip for us Canadians about using 99999 as your zip code if buying a metrocard! I can’t wait to go back … and finally see the Statue of Liberty which I miss every time.

Thanks so much, Carol! Glad the post is helpful. I hope you finally get to meet Lady Liberty up close and personal on your next NYC visit. 🙂

Great guide to NYC! It can be so daunting to plan a visit to NYC as there is so much to see. Agree with Bryant Park it’s a great stop as it is not as touristy. My fave is also going to MoMA on Fridays. Sigh…I love NYC 🙂

Lol, Christina…I know that sigh. Once NYC gets under your skin it constantly calls you back…

What a fantastic resource! I would add Mandarin Oriental, Four Seasons (not the new one, but the old one) and Gramercy Park hotel on the luxe end. I’ve loved my stays in all. But that’s the thing about NYC… so many great hotels and so little time!

Thanks, Katie, for adding to this resource! I do love the Gramercy Park Hotel but I’ve just been there for drinks. 🙂

I knew of the famous grid system on NY and how it was built but it was interesting and really helpful to have the streets and avenues orientation and the public transport info. A city that everyone wants to visit but need quite a bit of research beforehand to make the most of it.

So true, Sia! You really should have a little sense of how to get around or else you could miss so great NYC spots.

What a great guide! I haven’t been to NYC yet. I will keep in mind your tips for when I am going to visit. Thanks

Oh Mansoureh, NYC is such a great city. I hope you can visit soon!

Tips, tricks and itineraries for New York…so useful this post is. I have always felt that larger cities are so difficult to absorb, because of their sheer size. You tend to miss out on different angles and ways of experiencing the place. Posts on larger cities are so much needed.

Thank you, Punita. Big cities certainly have so much to see and do. It’s hard to know where to begin.

Fabulous post. I visited NYC in May this year. It had been on my bucket list for some years and I was not disappointed. I was lucky enough to have two full weeks there and I got to do a lot! Only problem is that I can’t wait to come back. Your post is spot on, and the best I have read (and believe me I’ve read a few). You’re so very lucky to live in NYC. Patrice (Australia) x

PS: My favourite sweet in NYC was a choc chip cookie from Levain Bakery. De-licious!

Thanks so much for reading and for your kind words, Patrice. 🙂 How awesome you made it to NYC. I’m so glad you loved it and hope you can make it back soon! Levain Bakery has the best chocolate chip cookie for sure.

This is a wealth of useful tips! So informative….. NYC is on my radar. Not sure when I will get to go there but whenever I do I will come back to this post. And definitely saving it on my Flipboard!

Thank you, La Dee! Hope you make it to NYC soon and reach out if you have any questions. Thanks for sharing, too! 🙂

Thank you Jackie. We leave for NYC in 6 sleeps! So excited and this guide is just perfect for us. I’ve been reading and organising and planning for months and months and months but this is one of the most succinct finds that will help us immensely. Thanks for helping a very excited Australian family. If you have one for Washington DC, feel free to share that too 🙂

Yay, how exciting, Jo!! I hope you love NYC and have a great time! 🙂 I have a Washington, D.C. post as well. It’s not as succinct a guide as my NYC guide, but I still think it’s pretty good! 😉 Feel free to get in touch if any last minute questions pop up. Thanks so much for reading! 🙂

Super helpful post, thanks! I’m going next week for work and adding 1 free day in for myself. I’ve been to NY several times and haven’t loved it, so I’m giving it one more shot 🙂

I’m so glad you’re giving NYC another chance, Leigh. Let me know if you need any other pointers. NYers always want you to love their city.

I LOVE NYC! Can’t wait until my next opportunity to come back. Last time I went with some friends, we stayed across the Hudson in Jersey City, about 2 blocks from the PATH station. Been there twice and have done the “touristy” stuff, now I’m ready for a week of exploring the boroughs.

Awesome, Kim! The boroughs have such gems! Brooklyn, of course, is a hot spot, but Queens should not be overlooked. Best Chinese food in Flushing! Hope you can make it back soon. 🙂

What a fantastic article!! Going to NYC for first time in July….I know you all say it’s HOT in Summer but hey I live in southern Texas!!! It can’t be any hotter than here…LOL. Great tips and I’m going with my daughter who’s 21. We will be there for 6 nights. Can’t wait to plan out each of our days. My only concern is getting from airport to hotel.

Thanks so much, Darcy. 🙂 So exciting to be making your first NYC trip. Southern Texas has got to be pretty hot! If you let me know your airport and hotel neighborhood (no need to name exact hotel if you don’t want.), I’m happy to give you transfer tips. 🙂

This is a great post…very helpful and informative! I’m visiting NY for the first time this coming July. I’m driving from WV and worried about parking and traffic. Any pointers??

Hi Amanda, Thanks so much for reading and I’m glad the post is helpful for your upcoming NYC trip! 🙂 So, I’m not sure what part of town you’re staying in, but I’d look to park my car away from the midtown (Times Square, Rock Center, Broadway) area. I’d go uptown to the west 80s, 90s, 100s street and look for street or garage parking there. NYC has street cleaning so for example on the street where I live, you can park on the street for free except for Tuesdays & Fridays between 10am-12pm. You’ll have to check the street signs wherever you park. If uptown is too far from where you want to be, look far west in midtown, like close to the Hudson River and West Side Highway. There are relatively cheaper outdoor parking lots. No matter what you decide, park your car for your stay and don’t drive it again. Traffic is truly awful and NYC sights and attractions don’t have any parking lots. So you’d just be going from one paid lot to another and losing time by sitting in traffic. Also, not sure if you have the electronic toll system EZPass in WV, but if you do, bring it. It’ll save you time when you cross into Manhattan via bridge or tunnel. Good luck!

How funny! I am also from WV, planning to drive and I was wondering about parking. We do plan on parking for the duration and using the subway but now I know to check out parking areas other than what is available at our hotel. Thanks.

Such a small world, Tammy! 😉 Definitely worth it to look outside of your hotel area. It most certainly will be cheaper. Good luck!

Great break down of the city. I am visiting for the first time tomorrow and I only have a day to explore. I was feeling a little overwhelmed and now I feel like I can do it!

Yay, Amanda! You totally can do it. Enjoy your day in NYC and thanks so much for reading! 🙂

This is wonderful and incredibly helpful! We are bringing our three school-aged sons in October. You have made me even more excited and comfortable. Thank you!

Thanks so much for reading, Audrey! I’m so glad the post is helpful. So exciting to visit NYC, plus October is a great time to visit. Fewer tourists and great weather. Have so much fun!:)

Planning going to see NYC sites in end of Sept. But driving would it be better to stay in Hoboken or Jersey City hotels to park my car then take Path to NYC. Thanks

Hi Julie, thanks for reading. Hoboken and Jersey City can be good alternatives. But just know each city has resident-only permit parking and limited, timed parking for visitors. Hoboken, in particular, is especially restrictive and will not hesitate to put a boot on your tire only to be removed by paying hundreds of dollars. Look for hotels that offer parking on site or local area lots and garages for the best deal. As a comparison point, you could also look at hotels/parking in Long Island City (Queens) and Brooklyn. These NYC boroughs do have street cleaning regulations a couple times of week depending on the neighborhood/side of the street, but street parking isn’t restricted to residents with permits. Be sure to check how close the subway is, as well, so you can easily get in and out of Manhattan. Hope that helps! Enjoy your trip. 🙂

This info is so helpful! Thank you, I look forward to my trip to New York in November of this year. And I look forward to utilizing so much of your helpful tips. Thank you so much Julie! Sincerely, Danielle (Last name deleted for privacy, URL removed.)

Thanks for reading, Danielle. Hope you have a great trip to NYC!

Hi I think your blog is well informed thank you very much. I am wondering if anybody knows when the tree lighting happens and when sacks has their laser show as well as Bergdorf’s Christmas windows if you can let me know that would be great thank you so much.

Thanks for reading, Steff. The Rockefeller Tree Lighting is on November 28, 2018. The department store holiday windows are typically open for viewing in late November. I don’t know the exact details of the Saks 5th Avenue laser show yet, but they typically begin in the late afternoon/early evening 4:30/5:00ish and happen periodically a few times an hour until about 11:30. I have an NYC Christmas Guide . I will be updating it soon. Bookmark it so you’ll have the latest info. 🙂

Such a great read thanks Jackie! I’m heading over with 2 girlfriends for my 40th and we are all very excited! Have been once before and remember the craziness of trying to get out of the airport, a little worried about it but not enough to dampen our spirits. Only there for three days so we are going to have to work out which of your itineraries to go with and what to chop. Thanks for doing all the hard work for me. Sioux (Australia)

Thanks for reading, Sioux! Happy to have made your travel planning easier. Enjoy your girls trip!! 🙂

Such great information – thank you so much!!!! My husband and I are planning a trip this December 2018. I am a Christmas nut and am super excited to experience my first New York Christmas. I can’t wait to see all the lights, decorations, and just the magic!! Any pointers on the best way to tackle New York at Christmas time? I’m sure it is crazy busy that time of year and the lines will be never ending.

I’m so glad the guide was helpful, Suzette. NYC is spectacular at Christmas but yes it is crazy busy. I have a Christmas in NYC guide and I’ll be updating it over the weekend for 2018. But there’s still plenty of great info that still applies from last year, as well. Feel free to comment again here or on that guide if you have more questions. 🙂 Thanks for reading!

Great and comprehensive guide Jackie! I read this before my first very trip to New York and because of your blog I was well prepared. I went the other week during 9/11, at a time where it was raining lots, but that did not hamper our stay there! [YouTube video link edited out]

Thanks for reading, Junas. I’m so happy to hear the guide was useful for you. I don’t publish links in comments, so your video link was edited out.

I remember the first time I went to New York. I stood in the middle of the Times Square on a very crowded evening. I have never in my life seen so many people in the street at once. I was a interesting experience. I learned a lot about the New York lifestyle.

Thanks for reading, Henry. New York City is a city like no other, that’s for sure.

Jackie… my husband and I are planning our first trip to NYC this November. Our kids live in Lakehurst, NJ so we’ll be staying with them. Any suggestions on the best way to travel from there into the city? We are taking our kids and grandkids to see Aladdin on the 11th, which I just realized is Veterans Day. Anything we should be aware of because of the holiday?

Thanks for reading, Joni. How fun to come up to NYC with your family to see Aladdin! I know there are Academy buses that run from Lakehurst to NYC, I’m just not sure of the schedule or if that schedule would be different on 11/11. Another option could be to drive a short distance to main train station, park, and take the train into NYC from there. You might find the trains run more frequently giving you more flexibility about how long you can stay in NYC. Enjoy your visit and the show! 🙂

everything you said makes sense. good information.

Thanks for reading, David. Enjoy NYC.

I didn’t know anything about New York to be honest so this post was a nice read and very helpful as well. [LINK EDITED OUT]

Thanks so much for reading, John.

Thanks For Sharing

Thanks for reading, Giselle. Enjoy NYC.

Very informative article.Hi im nur frm Malaysia.We a family of 6 (me,husb,mom,4yo & 1 yo twins) will be going on the 14/12 till 28/12 from Nepal to New York and Washington.No matter how much i read or watch (youtube) i still feel a little overwhelmed by th thoughts of going there for th first time,with my small kids,and the super cold weather (wut i heard) and navigating the city for th first time. Your article gives me perspective.before,i even stongly considering to hire tour guide for sightseeing purpose.what do u think,is it necessary? Tq

Thanks for reading, Nur. I don’t think it’s necessary to hire a tour guide for your entire trip to NYC, but you may want to consider day tours for specific things, like if you wanted an NYC overview or a neighborhood tour of lower Manhattan. Typically, getting underground to the subway is the best way to escape chilly winds. But, keep in mind, only specific subway entrances will have elevators for a baby stroller. New Yorkers often carry the stroller down or up the subway stairs. I might consider looking at a hop on hop off bus to get around outside of Times Square and the midtown Manhattan area (Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park, Empire State Building). The one drawback to this is traffic. The weather will be chilly (likely between 30-45 F/-1-8 C), so it’s important to dress in layers and take advantage of breaks inside shops and places like Grand Central Station, and museums.

I hope your NYC and Washington travels are fantastic! Respond to this comment if you have more NYC questions. 🙂

Wow, all the information you provided was very informative. I just booked flights for New York for my family in April! Yay! I was getting a bit overwhelmed with researching where the best places to stay, visit, etc. as this will be our first visit to NY and I am so glad I found your post. I will be purchasing the city pass for sure. Thank you!

Thanks so much for reading, Staci! Glad the post was helpful for your upcoming NYC trip. Feel free to reach back out if you have more questions. Love CityPASS, it’s a definite money-saver when doing a lot of sightseeing. 🙂

Hello Globetrotting Teacher,

Thank you for mapping out a Mama and son first visit to NY! ( Itinerary 1,2 & 3 )

Just what the doctor ordered!

Straight to the point useful information.

You go girl! : )

Thanks for reading, Duv. Glad the itinerary ideas will be useful for your NYC trip! 🙂

My husband and I are headed to NY in March for the first time and since we booked the flight all I can do is plan our trip. This has been the best post I have come by. Thank you so much for putting this together!

Thanks for reading, Ciarra. So glad the guide is helpful. Have a great NYC trip! 🙂

Very good information. Lucky me I discovered your blog by chance (stumbleupon). I have book marked it for later!

Thanks for reading, Gene. 🙂

Very informative. I’m visiting NYC for the first time in a couple of months and I have no clue where to stay. Of course we want to do lots of sightseeing, attend a broadway show, and I can’t wait to eat some good pizza! Any recommendations on cost effective places to stay?

Thanks so much for reading, Cassandra. I have a Where to Stay in NYC guide for you to use to help you find the right place to stay. As long as you are close to a subway line, you can easily access many parts of NYC. So a place like the Upper West Side, for example, is not in Times Square but the subway line will help you get there in just minutes. Hope that helps and you have a great NYC trip!

This was SO HELPFUL!!! I am planning my first trip to NYC on my birthday in September and was feeling a bit overwhelmed thinking of how to get around and things to do. Also about where to stay.. What will the weather be like? Will i need to pack my faux fur? (LoL).

I am SO printing this out to read again!

Lol! Thanks for reading, Tonj. Faux fur for sure! 😉 Enjoy NYC.

What an absolutely fabulous and detailed write up, one of the best I have read on any city. Thanks for making our first trip to NYC so damn easy and fun

Yes! So glad to hear that, Anah. 🙂 Appreciate you reading and glad your trip was so fantastic.

Thanks for the useful information! Family of 4 will be visiting NYC for the first time in April 2019. We will only be there for 2 days 1 night. Is it possible to do 8 attractions in 2 days? I was looking into buying the 2 day New York Pass.

Thanks for reading, Ann. I think 8 attractions is a lot in 2 days. The bundled sightseeing cards can be a great deal. I’ve written about the New York CityPASS . But, expect things to take longer in NYC. There’s traffic or a subway delay. People fill the sidewalks so you can’t walk as quickly as you might think. The line at a restaurant or attraction is longer than expected. For these reasons, you and your family could end up feeling really rushed. If you do decide to give it a go, I’d stick to using the subway. It’s the fastest way to get around. Hope you have a great trip to NYC!

Super excited Theater Teacher here that just found our that I get to go to NYC with my 16 yr old son for our Birthday in June. (Yes I share Birthday with my son). My 50th and his 17th. This is an awesome list of what do do and how to get around. THANKS!!

Thanks for reading! NYC for 2 birthdays is a great way to celebrate! Hope you can make it to a Broadway show, too! 🙂

we have 5 hours to get back to LGA so what would you recommend we do in that time?

Thanks for reading, Sheila. Not sure exactly what you mean, but if you’re leaving the airport with only 5 hours before your next flight, I’d be really careful. The traffic in between LGA and Manhattan can be rough! If you’re set on catching a glimpse of the city, I would head to Times Square and from there walk over to Rockefeller Center, where you can also see Radio City Music Hall and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. The area has a lot of sights in a compact area. Good luck!

This site is so great! Thank you!

Two questions: 1) We are leaving a concert at 2:30 pm at Carnegie Hall on a Saturday. Our plane leaves from Newark at 6:25pm. We would be riding the Subway. It looked like we were totally good, but my family thinks I’ve put us in a bind…thoughts??

2) Family of 6: Mom and Dad and 4 boys ages 10,14,18,19…. We aren’t fancy eaters…can we eat do lunch and dinner together for $30/day pretty easily? This might be way too broad a question…you can tell me so! LOL

Thanks for reading, Jen. 🙂 If you plan to leave Carnegie Hall and go straight to Newark, you should have plenty of time. $30 for a family of 6 for lunch and dinner will be tough to accomplish. (I’m reading this as $30 for lunch and dinner for 6 people so hopefully, I understand what you mean!) Pizza slices are typically pretty cheap (for NYC), as are lunch specials at ethnic food restaurants (Chinese, Indian, etc.). Bagel carts can be cheap way to get a bagel with cream cheese for not that much money either. No matter what you do, avoid eating in and around Times Square and Rockefeller Plaza. It’s the most expensive area to eat in the city, even for just a pizza slice! Enjoy NYC.

Hi, I’ve been reading up on visiting NYC a ton and your blog was one of the most helpful. I also looked through all of your comments which were helpful as well. I reserved an Airbnb months ago for my family in Jersey City. There will be 7 of us, kids ages 7-16 so that makes it difficult to get a hotel. But then I found out this week how expensive it is going to be to get back and forth to NYC every day. We will be there a total of 6 days and the home we are staying in is 2 miles away from the Path station. So not within walking distance. Between Peking our vehicle and paying for everyone to ride the Path and then getting into NYC and paying to ride the Metro I’m starting to wonder if staying in Jersey City was such a good plan. Any input at all would be most helpful. I’m not sure whether to drive into NY and pay for parking, or leave our car at the Path station and pay for parking there, or what to do. I feel like we are going to spend around $100 a day just to get into NYC and back and I am stressing out. I also am not sure if we should buy the 7 day Metro pass for each of us to travel around NYC or just pay per ride. Help!

Thanks for reading, Tiffany. You were right to look at Airbnb, particularly on the Jersey side. Jersey City and Hoboken are great ways to save money and still be close to NYC. However, the problem (as you said) is your place isn’t within walking distance to the PATH train. Is it possible to change to a different Airbnb closer to the PATH? I would not recommend driving into NYC as tempting as it seems. It’ll likely be just as expensive and cost you time. Traffic through the tunnels into Manhattan and in the city itself can eat up hours. Jersey City also has a Light Rail which can be good for getting around and connecting to other modes of transport. There are also NJ Transit buses that go right into Port Authority on 42nd Street. Just not sure if either are close to your Airbnb. The 7 day MetroPass is worth it if you plan to use it at least 12 times no matter how many days you visit NYC. It can also be used on the PATH trains. Hope that helps!! 🙂

Hi! Thanks for such a great article. We are headed to New York City for the first time in mid-July. We are staying in Times Square Hotel. The best way to get around seems to be walking and the subway, but we’ve never been on a subway. Are there people who can help with directions once I get to subway station? I’m a little nervous. Also, we are coming in from La Guardia airport. What is the best idea for getting to hotel from the airport?

Thanks for reading, Jennifer. Definitely walk and ride the subway for your NYC visit. The subway is really logical once you get the hang of it. The lines are broken up by color and named after a letter or number. From Times Square, you’ll have a lot of train lines available which makes getting to and from your hotel convenient. Some stations might have an MTA employee to help with directions, but it’s not overly common. I recommend having a subway app or PDF of a subway map on your phone. This way, you’ll always be able to check where you are and where you need to go. As for transferring from LGA, I have an LGA to Manhattan guide for you. 🙂

nice article, i love new york.

Thanks so much for reading. Glad you have good NYC experiences. 🙂

Most helpful article yet! Thank you so much for your insight, recommendations and tips! Much appreciated!

You’re welcome, Erin!

Thanks for reading!!

I like how you mentioned that the best place to stay is within comfortable walking distance to a subway station for better access to all the places you’d like to visit. My aunt wants to visit New York for the holidays, and she wanted to know how to find a tourism guide to take her to all the places she wants to visit. Thank you for the tip on the https://washingtondctraveler.com/ subway station, I’m going to let my aunt know about it so that she can start seeing her options when traveling.

Thanks for reading and thrilled that the tips are helpful.

The best way to see NY AND get around is the subway.

Holiday traffic in NYC can get rough so taking cabs or driving is not efficient on time and $$.

I hope your aunt has a wonderful trip. Holiday time in NYC is a memorable one!

Great Article. I’m going to drive down to NYC for the first time at the end of the month. I’ve been there several times but I’ve never driven. We are going to a gaming show at the Barclays center and will be driving down early morning and then leaving after show is over and maybe staying overnight somewhere once we get out of the city. I would appreciate any suggestions you might have, we are coming from upstate ny. thought about taking the bus down the night before but then not sure where to stay or how to get the Barclays center and then back to the bus. Thanks so much

Thanks for reading, Nancy. I would avoid driving if you could. Traffic is crazy. Roads are confusing and a lot of time can be wasted just trying to get around. And that’s all before thinking about parking. If there are buses to bring you to Manhattan, you could easily take the subway to downtown Brooklyn or even an Uber or taxi. Downtown Brooklyn has hotels so it’s possible to stay within close proximity of the Barclays Center. Also, no matter where you stay in NYC, the Barclays Center has a transportation hub right next to it with subway lines from all over the city reaching there. If you haven’t, check out this where to stay in NYC guide. Good luck! 🙂

This article was incredible! I appreciate the time and dedication you showed to include all of the details. The information didn’t stop at the end of it either! You take the time to comment and reply to every comment you get, that’s amazing, you’re still giving out awesome information!

Thanks for reading, Maddy. I appreciate the kind words. 🙂

I’m so excited. We are visiting NYC in June 2020. There are 6 of us going, 3 have already been, 1 lived in Jersey and worked in the city many moons ago. I’m so excited to eat food! ?

Thanks for reading, Alberia. NYC has so much food to eat!! Enjoy! 🙂

Great article with a lot of details! Appreciate all the tips you provided. We’re coming to NYC mid-December and staying at the Park Central Hotel. Any suggestions for an affordable & family friendly place for dinner for a group of 2 families with kids? We’re celebrating a birthday but don’t want to break the bank. My wife wants a place that gives you that New York feel. Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks so much for reading Rocky. Not sure if you’re looking to stay close to your hotel but I’d recommend looking at Benihana, Cowgirl, Bubby’s (great if you’re near the High Line), Fred’s (on the Upper West Side), and Keste, Lombardis, or even John’s pizza (in the theater district) for pizza. Nom Wah Tea Parlor in Chinatown is also an NYC classic. Have a great trip to NYC! 🙂

Thank you so much for all the insight! I am planning a family trip for Christmas 2020 with my hubby & 4 kids!! This gave me so many helpful tips and I was able to download every app so I can do some advance purchasing!!

Thanks for reading, Courtney. I’m so glad the guide is helpful for you. You’ll love NYC at Christmas. The city is just so pretty. 🙂

Your article is extremely appreciated. So much do in NYC, so many attractions and experiences to choose from . The tips you shared on transportation and local’s insights were especially helpful, and I like the different perspectives you pulled into the itinerary suggestions. Super excited about my first trip to NYC

Thanks so much for reading, Meena. I’m glad the guide is helpful and I hope you have a great first trip to NYC!

You’re blog is so helpful! We’re planning our first family trip to NYC. There are 6 of us. I am having a hard time finding a hotel with a suite big enough for 6 people. Do you have any suggestions for larger hotel rooms in the city? Thank you for your help!

Thanks for reading, Stephanie. Glad the blog is helpful for planning your trip to New York City. Finding larger family rooms is tricky in NYC. Here are a few suggestions. Hotels like the Fairfield Inn in Midtown, Hyatt Place in midtown, the Residence Inn in midtown, even the Doubletree in Jersey City (10 mins to Lower Manhattan) if you’re looking to stay just outside of Manhattan will have suite rooms that have 2 double or queen beds plus a sofa sleeper bed. I hope that helps and you can find something that works! Good luck and enjoy NYC!

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The Books That Helped Me Adjust to a Big City

This is an edition of the books briefing, our editors’ weekly guide to the best in books. sign up for it here..

As soon as I moved from the sprawling suburbs of Tennessee to a place where the train, the bus, or my feet could take me pretty much anywhere, at pretty much any time, I became an instant urban convert. I still remember that first giddiness about living in a city, where excitement “pulses through daily life,” as Pamela Newton writes; this week, she’s assembled a list of books that capture what it’s like to experience places like New York, Tokyo, and London.

First, here are four new stories from The Atlantic ’s books section:

• America’s immigration reckoning has arrived .
• There’s no such thing as a meaningful death.
• The 19th-century novel that reaffirmed my Zionism
• Living through the end of California

In 2018, I arrived in Washington, D.C., and fitting into the city’s “giant, dense human puzzle,” as Newton puts it, wasn’t immediate or easy. But my first job was to write about local arts and culture, so I turned to books to help me understand the history, and the spirit, of my new home. The first title my editors insisted I read was Dream City: Race, Power, and Decline in Washington, D.C. , by Harry Jaffe and Tom Sherwood, an overview of District politics that covers the city’s switch from congressional control to home rule, and Mayor Marion Barry’s first three terms. Other books that came heavily recommended were Go-Go Live , about D.C.’s homegrown funk sound, and Chocolate City , a 400-year examination of democratic ideals—and how leaders have fallen short of them—in the capital. Over time, I started to recognize some names of the writers who have helped make up the city’s literary scene: George Pelecanos, E. Ethelbert Miller, Dinaw Mengestu , Elizabeth Acevedo .

The best D.C. book I’ve read is Edward P. Jones’s 1992 short-story collection, Los t in the City , which was a finalist for the National Book Award and is constantly cited as a classic. Jones patiently conjures whole social worlds from the ground up; the first story, “The Girl Who Raised Pigeons,” still stands out in my mind for the tender and brutal ways it describes birds living and birds dying, and for its precision about space and landmarks in a neighborhood on the edge of North Capitol Street that’s on the verge of being wiped out.

More recently, Morowa Yejidé’s Creatures of Passage , a ghostly family drama set in 1970s Anacostia, captures a special kind of urban mood. Its main character, Nephthys, is both a mythic ferryman for the lost and a taxi driver broken by the death of her twin, on a mission to prevent more misfortune from touching her family. Although the novel’s operatic language and supernatural happenings can sometimes be disorienting, Yejidé grounds the writing by focusing on the ties that keep Nephthys and her community together.

I’ve lived here for only a few years, and I’ve read just a small selection of the books on the metaphorical D.C. syllabus. Next on my list is Shahan Mufti’s recent book American Caliph , about a terrorist group’s dramatic 1977 attack on three D.C. buildings. After that, I may have to go to the D.C. Public Library’s main branch and peruse its stacks. All of the books that re-create what happened before my time help me feel more tied to the place where I’ve put down roots, and help me imagine my future here.

Eight Novels That Truly Capture City Life

What to Read

The Price of Salt , by Patricia Highsmith

People tend to think of Highsmith’s classic as a lesbian romance rather than a road novel, but it’s both: The second half of the book takes place in a car, as the protagonist, Therese, decides to go with her crush, Carol, on a trip west during those peculiar, formless weeks around Christmas and New Year’s. Sharing motel rooms with two twin beds in anonymous small towns, the women can finally act on their mutual attraction. Therese discovers that she likes being Carol’s passenger, as it allows her to train her gaze, and her camera, on Carol and the American vistas, seeking a new kind of understanding. Carol, freed from the imprisonment of her suburban town and her husband, is finally able to lean into her sexual power, turning her probing curiosity to Therese. Only in this remote, liberated setting can the pair see each other clearly enough to recognize that they are in love—and yet they’re being followed by a mysterious car and an overly friendly man. Their romance pushes the novel to its difficult, but surprisingly sweet, conclusion. — Emma Copley Eisenberg

From our list: Eight books to take with you on a road trip

Out Next Week

📚 Cahokia Jazz , by Francis Spufford

📚 You Glow in the Dark , by Liliana Colanzi

📚 Burma Sahib , by Paul Theroux

Your Weekend Read

The dispute has highlighted a fundamental predicament: The art world is crawling with counterfeits—estimates of the proportion of art on the secondary market that isn’t what it claims to be range from 40 to 70 percent—and it can be maddeningly difficult to distinguish a forgery from the real thing. Attributions can flip repeatedly during the life of an artwork, a phenomenon that has become even more common as experts reassess collections with help from new scientific techniques. The result is that the question of authenticity, which seems like it should be cut-and-dried, has come to seem quite fluid. That can create confusion, but also opportunities.

When you buy a book using a link in this newsletter, we receive a commission. Thank you for supporting The Atlantic .

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• Do you prefer big...

Do you prefer big cities? Or?

On another topic, Ilja, from Seattle, postulated that, "Maybe most American tourists prefer big cities".

Do you? I don't, but then again, most of my vacations in the US, both as a child when my parents planned then, and later, when I planned them, have been to places other than cities. Cities bore me. I'm not an art museum person.

I think most Americans, particularly those who have never traveled to Europe, are pretty ignorant about the continent - probably knowing about only a few major cities- so when they plan a trip, that's where they go. Tour companies are not mu;ch help either, offering tours that only go to the familiar places (If the is Tuesday.....).

Sometimes I think most Americans visualize Europe as a few major cities - London, Amsterdam, Paris, Rome, etc - surrounded by unpopulated desert. How many times have we seen a post titled "1st timer, is this itinerary possible". They are going to London, Paris, Rome, Vienna, Berlin, all in one week!

I suspect people on this website, particularly those with more than a few trips, are much more knowledgeable and branch out a bit more.

So, how about you? Do you prefer to spend most of your time in big cities? Or do you look for the small towns and scenic vistas?

Absolutely Yes .................................. and No . I travel for very particular reasons and for absolutely no reasons. Sometimes that takes me to a major city for an interest or a purpose; sometimes I just go fishing in the country; and there are tens of thousands of variables in between the two extremes. BUT, if someone were to say that they had 15 days and could go anywhere they wanted on their first trip out of the U.S. I would say London, Paris and Rome. And only after they saw that much then they should branch out.

Most time is spent in smaller cities and villages...savoring the rural bits especially.

The company I worked for in the 80s sent me to London for three days (2 nights), then twice to Paris for 1 night each time. I don't ever plan to go back to either cities, and I've never been in and don't ever plan to go to Rome. On the other hand, I love Munich and have spent close to a month there on eight trips. I've spent over a week in the Rhein and Mosel valleys, 5 weeks (5 trips) in a small village next to the German Alps, and a couple of weeks total in four German national parks.

Well, I am never bored no matter where I might be. Writing off museums as though they are all just art is kind of sad. Going to a fun and fascinating museum where they have science, archeology, film, specific history, applied arts, is nothing like going to one art gallery after another. I like to break out of the mold and go explore something different, let myself be astounded.

Big cities have the churches and architecture I want to see, the historical buildings I enjoy, and the markets, festivals, and liveliness.

Small towns also have the churches and architecture I want to see, and festivals, markets and a sense of community that is enjoyable.

As a good example, this coming week, there will be the Luminale in Frankfurt. It only comes every 2 years and I am so excited to see what all of these creations made of light will look like. I will spend every evening running around the city, thoroughly enjoying this unique and special event, and taking 100's of photos. Something like this will only be in a big city. http://light-building.messefrankfurt.com/frankfurt/en/besucher/events/luminale.html

I will go to a small town like Idstein for their Witches Market though, or a small, one weekend only Christmas Market in Eppstein. Sometimes, I don't even have to leave Frankfurt to get a small town feeling as all of the neighborhoods offer this. They have their own small street fests that they have been doing for 100's of years, with the community participating in special, traditional ways. They have their own markets where everyone knows each other, and believe it or not, their own dialect. So, I have the best of both worlds in one city.

Cities. I live in a rural/small town area where I have to drive everywhere. The last thing I want to do when I'm on vacation is replicate that. I want the complete opposite experience: -world class museums -stunning cathedrals -public transport -hustle and bustle -cinemas that show movies without CGI -theater that doesn't involve students or amateurs -overpaid soccer players -public protests with riot police -rich people showing off their wealth

If I want a quaint small town experience I can do that around here and save thousands of dollars.

I grew up in big cities and like them fine. With limited time, I focus on them. We've spent two weeks each in London and Paris without tiring of them. But after seeing the big places, or with more time, I like to see smaller places and the countryside. Our last two trips to France have started in Paris and then we've driven to other regions, staying in medium-sized towns. I like the country, especially the American west, but doubt if I'd plan a vacation around a rural location in Europe.

On the other hand, I'd love to walk Hadrian's Wall, so there you are!

Michael, what you describe sounds a lot like NYC. One and a half hour drive, $16 for gas according to ViaMichelin. No need to spend thousands going to Europe.

I think I like a mix. I spent about 10 days in London this last Sept and enjoyed it and the sights, but I really started to feel comfortable when I got to Wales. Over the last many years I have moved to smaller and smaller communities, finally landing in a place with fewer than 800 residents. I realize I don't really care for the noise and confusion of a big city. I am willing to put up with it to see neat stuff, but I would just as soon walk out of the back door of my lodging and head up a mountain path.

Not all big cities are the same. Not all small towns are the same. I never appreciated large cities until I went to Europe. I found out I really like the variety and excitement that comes with being in cities. I like being able to get around on public transportation. I like a mixture of cities and smaller towns to balance out my travel experiences. Smaller towns each have their own personalities. I like scenery and the different ambiances of smaller towns. I also enjoy small cities. I guess I just like it all!!

I've LOVED or really enjoyed most of the 'big' cities we've visited. London is awesome, and after more than 40 visits, I'd go back again and again. Oslo is beautiful! Vienna is wonderful. Edinburgh is constantly interesting. The only places that left me flat, so far, are Zurich (seemed to have no real character- just another city) and Paris (the people were rude, the city was dirty...). But I also love the smaller cities, villages and more rural places. Drumnadrochit, Aviemore, and Inverness and all the Highlands of Scotland... they have my heart. Salzburg and the surrounding area is amazing. There are times I want the big city (like another poster, I LOVE the public transportation available) with it's theatre, museums, gardens and atmosphere. Other times, I want the natural beauty, the lovely sunsets, the peace and quiet... of the countryside. I know I don't have to pick one or the other... I CAN have both!!!

"...Michael, what you describe sounds a lot like NYC. One and a half hour drive, $16 for gas according to ViaMichelin. No need to spend thousands going to Europe...."

The more I travel overseas, the more I hate the Big Apple (I've been to Newark more times in the past ten years). It's a harsh city that hates it' residents, hates the people that commute to work there, and hates the people who visit. I'd rather spend time and money in metropolises that seem more humane like London, Paris, or Berlin....and a rail buff like yourself should know most people take the train into the Big Apple. Poughkeepsie to Grand Central on the Hudson Line, considered to be one of the most scenic train lines in the world.

I prefer visiting big cities, though it's nothing to do with my ignorance of the surrounding areas or being more or less knowledgeable. I just prefer a dense urban environment over living in the suburbs or rural areas, too. If I were to grossly generalize, I'd pin the difference on age groups - I think younger people are more likely to be drawn to cities and aren't necessarily as interested in spending a lot of time in the picturesque countryside. Like I said though - I'm just grossly generalizing here, and I certainly don't mean to say one preference is superior to the other :)

I prefer small cities, towns and villages. I have been to several large European cities to see some historic sites, but I really don't like to spend my time in larger cities. Munich is my favorite, bigger European city, and I think it is because to me it has a smaller feel.

I like a mix of both and the ones in the middle! Love New York (NOTHING like Newark BTW) loved Monteriggioni and Mainz. I always put a visit to a smaller city or town in between a few big city visits just to catch my breath. Paris, London, Barcelona, Berlin - love em all & more!

I like both. Cities (at least the good ones) have so much to see and do with a wide variety of experiences. It's nice to be able to stay in one place for a while and have lots to do, including (ideally) day trips. But there is something about small towns and villages that tug on my heartstrings. They are often full of charm and almost always more relaxing.

Why do I have to choose? I lived in Wisconsin for 20 years; now I am in NYC. I enjoy different in both places and it's the same when I go to Europe.

Do I enjoy London? Oh, my God, of course! Do I love Harris and Lewis? Oh, my God, of course! In London I get to see amazing art and explore history in direct ways. On Lewis and Harris there's also history and art, but there is also a wildness and a beauty of nature.

This dichotomy is the same whether I am in Europe or in the US. I live in NYC and can go to MOMA or the Guggenheim or the Whitney or the Frick any time I want. Or I can go to the NYC Historical Museum or other incredible places. I can also hop a train and go to the Adirondacks and see spectacular mountains and lakes. In France, I can go to Paris and see the Louvre and all the other museums that help us understand the history of France and what makes France, France. I can also go to Chamonix and see the mountains that have been there forever and have their own timelessness.

So, I don't want to choose. I will take both and I will enjoy both.

Pamela, well done!

Where's that "agree" button. Pamela said it best. Who says we have to choose.

PEOPLE OF THE FORUM RISE UP AND REFUSE TO CHOOSE!!!!

I get high and pumped up on big cities and then I have vacation from vacation (as R.S. says) somewhere in nice countryside. I enjoyed 4 days in Cinque Terra after 3 days in Rome tremendously. I do it almost always on my frequent trips to Europe.

Given the choice of picking either big cities or smaller town/.villages, I would choose the big cities. I feel perfectly comfortable in big cities. My first big city outside the US was London, where I spent 4 days. Looking back I should have added two days to my first time there. Normally the hectic, the pace of life, heat noise, etc in a city doesn't bother me in Europe but it certainly did one time in Paris, so I spent the day in a town, Fontainebleau, it worked.

I prefer the big cities: the museums, churches, architecture, public transportation, etc. , just walking around in Frankfurt, Berlin, Paris, Munich, Hamburg, Vienna, London, Warsaw, Krakow, but in the smaller cities and towns are also museums, esp the esoteric ones on history. Towns are not excluded form the intinerary but if I am to visit a particular small town, there is a specific reason behind it. Certain cities I've gone back or have started the tradition of returning to see the changes in almost every trip....Paris, Berlin, London, and Vienna, and possibly Munich. Most definitely, so far it has been Paris and Berlin.

Depending on the time factor, I would suggest to the first timer going over to include both big cities and towns, know what the priorities and interests are, and whether the trip should focus on big cities.

City gal, here.

I love exploring cities and enjoying their museums, galleries, shops, restaurants, theatres, architecture, public art, etc. I'm definitely not one to sit around a cabin or even a beach for very long. (Don't get me wrong, I love beaches, but I love them more if they're in or near cities.)

Small towns and rural scenery have their appeal, to be sure, and I love seeing those, too, especially when I'm travelling between one city and another. ;)

I guess if they were to put the Louve on Pitcairn Island, i would go there, but they didnt. So i go to the attractions/things to do/see. Guess what, they usually put those things in the "big" cities.

For natural wonders, its more geology so that can be anywhere. IE, like the Grand Canyon, or Crater Lake. they are in the back 40s, so you have to drive. Not much else around them either. When i go to Lascaux France, its out of the way, but its something i want to see. Im sure the people that made it wasnt thinking of the location at the time, but who knows.

As i said, i travel to the things. chances are they are in the cities/towns and such, but so be it. Some of the things i want to see arent, but i will get there using public transportation as much as possible since i hate driving. Now i will travel to the cities too since i think that some of them are cool. ALso i feel that some of the little things make a city what it is.

Also, the way i travel and do things i go to the "big" cities first if they warrant it. If there nothing of interest me there, i will skip it unless its a transportation hub or something. I go the "big" cities first so i can get familiar with them so when i return, im not spending as much time getting orientated or figuring how things work. I also feel that the costs are more in the "big" cities so i get that out of the way to make way to the other areas where i hope that some of the costs are less so i can spend more time there.

happy trails.

Like Pamela, I enjoy both. I love visits to some big cities in the US and many in Europe. When I lived in Italy for a bit, I was glad to be in a smaller city rather than Rome or Florence. I had to practice Italian, I had huge Sunday dinners with my relatives... You can use Italian and hang out with Italians in Rome and Florence of course, but I think as a student it's easy to fall into an American bubble in those cities (I know friends who did). I got more out of living in a smaller city than I would in a major one over there. But there's nothing wrong with visiting and enjoying major cities. I loved visiting Köln, Istanbul, London, etc. On the other hand, some of the other places I've visited aren't prime tourist destinations like Thessaloniki and Bratislava but they were some of my favorite trips. I guess to sum it up, I just enjoy traveling. As Pamela said, I will take both and I will enjoy both.

James, if we refuse to choose, aren't we choosing to refuse to choose?

"If you choose not to decide, you still have made a choice...I will choose a path that's clear...I will choose freewill."

And thank you, Neil Peart

If I'm going all the way to Europe, I want to 'see stuff' (and I don't mean some arbitrary checklist) - museums, major sites of whatever kind, have easy access to transportation (air, train, bus, rental cars), and maybe some 'big city amenities' (travel services, grocery stores and other shopping open late/on Sundays, etc.). Many people don't want to be in BFE Tuscany where there are NO buses running that particular day, the town is completely shut down, not enough English spoken, and they have a painful ear infection; they want to walk down the street to the pharmacy and/or see a 24/7 doctor. I personally like to check out smaller towns in between the cities, if possible, but they'll have to have something to offer besides simply 'NOT being a city'. I don't go to Europe for a relaxing vacation; I spend months studying what I want to see and then I go and see it. (When someone pokes his head into a building at Pompeii, glances around disinterestedly, then goes on his way, I have to resist the urge to go grab him, hold him there for 30 minutes, and explain to him the what and why he is looking at and why it's so important/unique/etc. LOL! ) I don't set out on My European Adventure meaning to only hit the big cities. If I come across a small town with something of interest to me, then I'll happily go there. Got Mosaics/Frescoes, Will Travel to your tiny hamlet ;-)

I get plenty of scenic vistas in my cities, and am reasonably knowledgable, and I don't think knowledge means much when it comes to Cities vs Small Towns. I think it's absolutely understandable that a first-timer hit The Big Ones on their first trip, and that tour companies do, too. There is a market somewhere for the 'Hallstatt/Bogny-sur-Meuse/Breisach' tour, but it's tiny. If I have a choice in my first, second, or even third trip to Europe to see Paris or Sambuca, I'm going to Paris. Hopefully , I can get to Sambuca One Day while traveling between Siena and Florence...but not at the expense of Paris. I know - some of you are yelling, "What about 'at the expense of Sambuca ?!?'" LOL! C'est la vie, que será será, variety is the spice of life, and all that...

When traveling in the USA, I usually end up in a smaller place, simply because we want to spend a relaxing week in a cabin in the woods, at the beach, or within/near a state or nat'l park. We also try to choose places that are within a day's drive, NOT an ordeal over The Big Blue. An ordeal over The Big Blue for me means an itinerary, and that's typically found in a larger city/metropolitan area.

I'm with you, Michael. I live rural, but come alive in a city. Public transportation is my dream! I also generally mix in smaller places when I'm in Europe, but it's the cities I love.

"James, if we refuse to choose, aren't we choosing to refuse to choose?" Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!

I've seen most of the major cities and I am glad I did and I love them and I return to them when possible. Lately it hasn't been about city or rural; its been more about activity or event or assimilation. Things as diverse as living in a neighborhood for a week in a major city, grocery shopping and neighborhood restaurants and bars. Or an annual festival in a small town or that incredible lake full of trout high in the mountains of a country where there are very few tourists. Then again the evening vista from a hill down on the river that runs through the great city with all of its lights is spectacular and worth all the efforts to be there.

It's been fun reading all these responses, but does anyone have a definition of a big city vs. a small city vs. a small town? Is it by population? History? Fame? Some other criteria?

Big city: over 1 million inhabitants, small town under 50 thousand, midsize town in between if I remember it correctly from school.

That definition of a big city is fair enough. Oh well, SF is not a big city , in spite of how it views itself. C'est la vie.

I think a million is bit high. With that criteria, Frankfurt, Cologne, Dusseldorf, and Stuttgart don't make the grade, though I think all of us would say these are big cities. Even my hometown, Columbus, Ohio doesn't even have a million and it certainly is considered a big city. For, me I would think anything over 500,000 or even as low as 350,000 is a decent size city.

Well, of course we won't be investigating Wikipedia to find out if it is a big city. If it feels big it's big. Seattle officially has under 700 hundred thousand but looks much bigger. Well, because really it is bigger. For example the north border of the city is 145 Street North. But there are many more, people living north of there have still Seattle address, maybe some of them changed it to Shoreline, but not that long ago the address was Seattle even technically it was not. So it would be better to go with Metropolitan area which in Seattle case is 3 million. So San Francisco is also big city (certainly above million, I would say at least three). I have this example: Brno - has only about 400 thousand but looks like a big city in the center. I traveled recently around Russia and for example Jaroslavl has 700 thousand and in the center looks like a small town. Almost all big cities in Russia looked smaller than they really were (Cheboksary, Samara, Saratov, Astrakhan, etc.).

Never stopped to think about it, but now that you've put it out there... I realize we still hit the big cities in the US, used to go to big cities in Europe and elsewhere, but in the last ten years we've tended to meander the back roads of Europe with just a week or two of a big city thrown in at the beginning or end of the trip.

SF's pop is certainly still under a million, but it is perceived to be a big city regardless of its actual population, even 30 years ago when the pop stood at 700,000 plus.

In addition to Frankfurt, Düsseldorf, etc under a million, there's Dortmund too.

I think "Americans" is just too big of a group to be lumped together in terms of their travel preferences. This is different than saying most people in US have a mental map of Europe that remembers mostly big recognizable cities, in the same way many Europeans have this idea of US being a bunch of cities in the Northeast, Chicago on the lake, Miami, some "stuff I don't remember well" in the middle and then California. Actually, if you go to travel forums geared towards Europeans going to US, you'd see how many are shocked when they learn Los Angeles - New York are separated by 5h non-strop red-eye flights and that Chicago is not just a short hop from Washington. Things get worse when it involves getting a grip of distances in the West - Grand Canyon to Yellowstone requires 18h of driving time and cannot be visited in consecutive days, driving to Alaska from Seattle takes 2 full days minimum, Denver is really far from Chicago and Yosemite is not just across the Bay Bridge from San Francisco... Many travel plans for Europeans wanting to go "off-the-beaten-path" in US are shattered when they get a grip on geography, especially 'idyllic' ideas like 'driving the old route 66', RV road trips to a laundry list of National Parks etc.

So I discount this perception of Americans on Europe as normal, at least until they get involved in actually planning a trip.

As for my own preferences, I can appreciate both big and small places. What I don't like much are big places that look like small ones, like capitals with businesses closing in the middle of the day.

I can vouch for Andre's claim that Europeans are also ignorant of geography. For a while, I was reading TA's New York forum, for a (now delayed) trip to NYC. A common question from Europeans was about zipping up to see Niagara Falls and getting back in time for dinner.

Big cities have the sights - museums, cathedrals, opera, theater, etc. - that are must-sees on many people's lists. If you only have a little time to see must-sees, you are naturally going to gravitate toward the big cities.

If you have time to slow down and experience the people of a country, you get much more by being outside of the cities. The country is where traditional language, food and culture thrives. Like in the U.S., the pace is slower outside the cities and it's much easier to get to know the locals.

I try to experience both but prefer smaller towns and countryside to big cities.

I like both. Big cities provide an opportunity of having more to do while small towns leave you relaxed. For me, when I travel, I always start out in a big city and end in a small town. It allows me to enjoy a fast paced city by knowing I can get some relaxation at the end. Although as I write this, I'm going to contradict myself. I've started craving more of a small city approach, i.e Salzburg or cities like it. Walkable without the mass hoards of people, although I'm sure there will be lots of tourists, but there is just a sense of comfort in a smaller city. I live just outside the nation's capital, so I'm surrounded by traffic, transportation and loads of amazing museums within a 20 min metro ride, so lately when planning my next trip, I"m looking for a city/town with things to do but without the chaos of a large city.

I'll take a walk through the woods or the pastures any day over a walk through a city.

I LOVE NYC. I commute in everyday and come in many weekends just to stroll or go out to lunch or get my sons haircut. But I have no interest in returning to London and Paris didn't thrill me. I like nice sized hopping cities - college towns are lots of fun. Favs - Bologna, Krakow, Bamberg (a bit slow but oh the beer ...)

No interest in spending times in sleepy villages though.

I'll add to Andre's and Karen's remarks and say many Americans have no idea about the size of the US. I just fielded a question on TA from a person that wanted to drive from Ohio to Yellowstone to Portland to Grand Canyon to Durango CO and back to Ohio in 2 weeks with time to see everything along the way and visit with the friends in Portland. She had no idea she was looking at 6000 miles as a conservative estimate.

I don't feel like I'm completed a well-rounded itinerary for us until there's a nice mix of both city & small villages, and a mix of some time in the mountains & also one location near water, and a mix of outdoor and indoor activities. Venice & Paris will always be the special cities in our mind. After that, favorites like Moena (small/Dolomite Mts), Verona (mid-size), Cinque Terre (small/water) or Siena (mid-size) all come to mind for Italy, for example.

Thankfully there's not one "fits all" itinerary, or we'd all hate vacationing in Europe!

...and then there are the small towns overrun with tourists, and the doesn't-feel-all-that-large-nor-crowded cities...

'I want a small, bucolic town like Rothenburg odT...'

I don't mind big cities for short stops, but honestly, once you've seen four or five of them (in Europe anyway), there's not a great deal that differentiates them except for a handful of specialties. There's only so many old cathedrals you can photograph before you can't tell them apart without context. But for a first-timer, hitting up the big cities is a comparatively easy and safe way to rack up a little experience without the additional complications of, say, being in the countryside, 45 minutes from the airport when you have to be at the gate at 5am. My first time out, I went to London and Edinburgh. But I also ventured out into small-town Wales and small-city England.

Big cities are still fun, don't get me wrong. I enjoyed Edinburgh a lot. But at this point in my life, I usually don't need to spend more than two days in any one city, maybe three if there's a lot that appeals to me. I much prefer to stay with local friends, who might be in a nearby suburb or ten miles out into more rural areas. There won't be much in the way of architecture and historical artifacts, but it feels a lot more authentic in terms of experiencing the culture and way of life. It's a little more complicated, but a lot more rewarding for me.

@Ms Jo: Columbus, OH is a big city? (from your neighbor down the road in small-city Toledo).

Yes, I would say any capital city should be considered a big city. http://ohio.stateguidesusa.com/answers-to-my-questions/what-are-the-top-10-largest-cities-in-ohio?/

We prefer small towns and visit big cities in smaller doses. Last trip to Italy, we spent only 2 nights in Rome, and 11 nights combined between Monterosso, Montalcino, Orvieto, and Sorrento. We went non-stop for 48 hours in Rome, but small towns seem to be a bit more conducive to building in "do nothing" time, and it's quieter. I also tend to pick hotels with balconies or terraces (with a view if possible) so we "feel" like we are outside even if relaxing in the room.

Next trip to Scotland, we'll spend 4 nights in Edinburgh, 1 in London, and 9 nights in small towns. Maybe when we retire and aren't trying to "escape" the stress of our jobs, we'll spend more time in cities, just because we'll be able to take longer vacations than we are able to now while working and we wont have the work stress to release.

I really disagree with the definitions of city/town sizes that was set forth at one point! I lived in Madison, WI for many years and I would never call it a big city, but it is a city. It has all the complications that a capital has and county of over half a million people. I sure would need to add the adjective, "large" to any town of 50,000 people. I think we called Appleton a small city of 65,000 back in the early '70's. It's probably bigger now, but still a small city. Also, is the village/town/city part of larger metropolitan area? Naperville, Illinois is over 100,000 people, but would your really call it a city? The definitions really need to go beyond population counts.

And yes, I might recommend that someone going to Europe for the first time go to the countryside first. I'd send them straight to the Scottish Highlands or the Lake District. I'd maybe send them fjords of Norway. What about Provence? Normandy? There are a lots of places not in cities where you can get an introduction to Europe. And depending on the person, they might be the better way to start an exploration.

I prefer cities. I've done multiple trips, and my favorite mode of travel is to spend up to a week in a city, doing the major sites and also digging into smaller neighborhoods, markets, etc, then a few days in a nearby smaller town. I generally only get to travel for a week or two at a time, so a couple cities and towns are about all I can do at once. For example, Paris then on to Beaune. Madrid, then on to Toledo and Segovia. London, then Bath. Etc. I don't like the Tuesday in Rome, Wednesday in Paris style…I like to dig into a city, but just because it's big doesn't mean there aren't worthwhile cultural experiences there.

I live near Chicago (well, within a few hours, not in the metro area), and after multiple trips a year never get tired of it. I also go to NYC and DC frequently and feel the same way. I suspect after 10 trips to London or Paris, it will be the same. I also like smaller cities that are still cities (Seville and York both come to mind immediately, I'm sure there are others). My personal preference is for cities, then towns, then true rural areas. I enjoy a rural trip occasionally, but mostly in the US, for the National Parks.

Honestly, I'd send a first timer to Europe to one of the cities or mid-size towns. As nice as the countryside is, if the person has traveled in the US at all, it won't be as different as a medium size town. The Alps are wonderful, but so are the Rockies. Also, cities are just easier navigation for a new traveler. That is, assuming they are used to US cities. If someone came to me and said "design a good first Europe trip, wherever in the continent you want to send us, 2 weeks", I'd have them arrive in London, go to Bath, then either Amsterdam and smaller Dutch towns, or Bruges. Easy language and logistics, great sites, balance of art/history/architecture/ambiance and not overwhelming. I'm working on a Balkans road trip for next year if possible (barely out of the conceptual stage, will change), and it's overwhelming. Bled, Zagreb, Plitivice Lakes, Dubrovnik, Mostar, Montenegro…I'm super excited, but it's not for beginners unless they are way, way more adventurous than I am. I needed to work up to this trip, then maybe in a few years I can dive into Asia :)

There is a practical aspect to it too. You will see more monuments, museums, and art by visiting three major historic cities than you would in 15 provincial towns. There are a lot of fascinating things to see in smaller towns and villages, but you have to factor in time and travel between them. Cities have a lot of things concentrated in one spot.

My wife and I travel quite a lot, both in the US and in Europe. We have enjoyed every city we have visited, and we have always enjoyed the small villages and countryside in between. I believe that with both cities and rural areas, a much better view of the country can be attained. We love to rent a car and explore the countryside for part of our trip and visit a city for the other part.

We always base in smaller villages. As another poster said, we love having a room balcony with terrific alpine views. Nothing like relaxing with a coffee or beer on the balcony after a day of sightseeing or even just hanging out with a coffee in the early morning and soaking in the views. While we loved all our visits to Salzburg, Innsbruck, Bressanone, etc., we would never stay in town. Much prefer the scenic villages, alpine views and "country" atmosphere.

I will take any opportunity to travel, so I will travel ANYWHERE, large or small. I find everywhere interesting. As far as living, which wasn't a part of the question, but affects my choices, I chose the city as I was raised in an insulated small town, and I left for the city and never turned back. I like lots of energy. Anyway, if I still lived in a small town, I would never choose anything but BIG. But, this is me. There are so many factors that go into our choices, I don't believe we can generalize. The USA is a large country, and it takes several flights for many people to get to Europe. They just might not want to add one more transport on to their trip/schedule to get to a smaller city, etc. They don't want to waste their limited vacation on transport time. Also, if people have one trip to Europe in their lifetime planned, wouldn't you want to start with the cities? Just rambling...

This topic has been automatically closed due to a period of inactivity.

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4 Things To Do When You Visit A Big City

If you’re travelling to a large city, you may be overwhelmed by all the options for sights to see and things to do. You want to get the most out of your visit, but there’s no way to squeeze in everything that the travel guides are recommending. Fortunately, most of the world’s biggest urban areas can be approached at least somewhat similar in terms of how one might go about exploring them. So, while you will, of course, want to consider specific options at your exact destination, you can also zoom out a bit and prioritize some of the following activities that are available in many if not most noteworthy destination cities.

1.) Find the Best Viewing Deck

Most big cities have a place where you can go to get a bird’s-eye view, such that you’re actually up above some of the skyscrapers. Whether you’re there to see the impressive skyline or a fantastic sunrise behind a famous bridge, these high-up views can make you feel like the whole world is at your feet, and help you to appreciate the wonder of a big city in a whole new way. Typically, these views are most easily found at the top of noteworthy buildings, though sometimes you can enjoy a similar experience by way of a hike (like the Hollywood Hills over Los Angeles, or Mount Royal over Montréal ). And alternatively, you might even be able to find what you’re looking for by way of a helicopter tour above the city. Whatever the specifics though, a view that allows you to look down over the city is spectacular just about anywhere.

2.) Spend One Night In Luxury

Some of the most lavish hotels are historic sites or famous sightseeing stops in sophisticated cities. If you’re spending some time in a big city, consider using just one night to splurge and getting a room in one of these places. Yes, it will set you back a bit in your travel budget, and sure, sometimes the cost is legitimately prohibitive. But a truly top-notch big-city hotel – a place like The Plaza in New York City, or The Savoy in London – can make for an unforgettably nice experience. Everyone should do a big city in total luxury and comfort, even gif just for the one night.

3.) Seek Out the Local Casino

With notable exceptions in most major American cities and some East Asian metropolises, plenty of destination cities around the world still have very exciting casinos that reliably offer fun, glitzy nights out. This is despite the fact that the UK’s endless stream of digital slots and poker rooms and New Zealand’s bonus-laden online casinos have more or less digitized the entire gambling industry. At least in big cities – particularly in Europe and Oceania – these glamorous venues are still among the primary nightlife and entertainment draws. So, whether it’s for dressing up for the high-end poker rooms in Monte-Carlo, taking in a stage performance at London’s Hippodrome, or exploring the vast and incredible Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, do keep casino entertainment in mind. Games, drinks, dinner, and entertainment in one spot is tough to beat, and saves you some trouble looking for things to do!

4.) Take the Most Recommended Day Trip

It seems silly to say that you should leave a city as part of your trip there, but often enough there are great cultural attractions – or just entertaining ones – just outside of major cities. Thus, it’s worth your while to at least look into some recommended day trips and see if something stands out as a potential change of pace from the big city one afternoon. To give just a few examples, you might venture outside of London to tour countryside castles; you may leave Tokyo for a day to climb part of Mt. Fuji, or perhaps you’ll make the drive south from Rome to discover the secrets of Pompeii . These kinds of day trips give you a break from the hustle and bustle, expose you to more of the area, and often don’t cost you any more than whatever you spend on basic transportation.

Whether you’re taking a day in a nearby location or relaxing in luxury at a fancy suite, these options will help you get a feel for most any big city you visit. Again, you’ll, of course, want to look into specific activities based on your actual destination. But keeping these in mind can save you some of the hassles of sifting through redundant, never-ending travel guides.

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A first-timer's guide to Saskatoon, Canada

Apr 26, 2024 • 6 min read

From timing your visit right to planning your activities, here's our first-timer's guide to Saskatoon © K. D. Kirchmeier / Getty Images

Surrounded by gentle wheat fields beneath a dome of great prairie skies, Saskatoon is the largest city in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan .

Straddling the South Saskatchewan River, it has been the province’s cultural and economic hub since its settlement in the late 19th century (but not its capital – that falls to Regina).

The Northern Plains Indigenous Peoples had been guardians of this land for over 6000 years when, in 1883, white Methodists founded the town as a temperance colony, naming it after the purple berry growing in the region. While the railroad eventually reached the fledgling town in 1890, Saskatoon still only had 113 inhabitants at the turn of the century. A boom period of new settlers and entrepreneurs soon followed, and Saskatoon grew into a thriving city, albeit isolated from big cities like Vancouver , Toronto and Montréal .

Today, the sometimes stark prairie landscapes around the city look like nowhere else in the country. Downtown, you’ll find street art tours, compelling museums, craft beer breweries, a variety of architecture and some fine riverside trails. And Saskatoon now proudly explains and celebrates the Indigenous Peoples who have been here for thousands of years, with the Wanuskewen complex a majestic and poignant monument to that past and present.

These top tips can help you plan a trip to Saskatoon.

When should I go to Saskatoon?

Though Saskatoon – one of the sunniest cities in Canada  – receives plenty of sunlight (2350.4 hours annually), winters are long and cold so plan to visit during the glorious summer months between June and August. This is the busiest time of year, but since Saskatoon is a little more under-the-radar than other Canadian cities, it’s not overwhelmed by tourists and offers much better value for money regarding accommodation and eating out. 

The city comes alive with music on those effulgent summer days with magnificent festivals across multiple genres including the Saskatchewan Jazz Festival , Rock the River and the Ness Creek Music Festival . And for those who do want to embrace Saskatchewan winter scenes, the Nutrien Wintershines Festival hosts ice sculptures, cook-offs, stargazing and more. 

How long should I spend in Saskatoon?

Allow two to three days to explore Saskatoon, but also leave time for attractions on the city’s outskirts that make use of the abundant prairie space. You’ll spend the majority of your time in downtown Saskatoon, on the river trails and the Broadway neighborhood, which is ideal for a weekend. More planning is needed for the excursions out of the city, so map out an extra day or two for those depending on time and budget. 

Is it easy to get in and around Saskatoon?

Saskatoon John G. Diefenbaker International Airport is 7km (4 miles) northwest of downtown Saskatoon, which is about 18 minutes by taxi, the most convenient form of travel to any downtown hotel. The number 11 bus also runs from the airport, and takes around 30 minutes to make the same journey (without factoring in walking to the hotel).

Though its streets are wide, Saskatoon’s downtown core is highly walkable and there are several bridges spanning the South Saskatchewan River that link to Broadway Ave’s bars, cafes and stores. Consider hiring a bike too, as the relatively flat landscape and serpentine river trails are ideal for cycling. Visitors to Wanuskewen will need to hire a car or take a taxi.

Traveling elsewhere in Canada? Here are our top tips on transportation

6 of the best things to do in Saskatoon

1. explore the meewasin valley trail.

Saskatoon’s huge prairie skies are evocative and entice you outside, so the best way to experience the great outdoors here is by following some of the Meewasin Valley Trail . Flanking the serpentine river, the 25km (15 mile) trails are a fine introduction to Saskatoon’s cityscape, and are best experienced on two wheels (look out for the motivational chalk murals and messages along the way).

2. See artworks in the Remai Modern

The river winds south to River Landing in downtown’s southern tip, and it’s here that the Tetris-like Remai Modern  museum rises up on a small bluff. Alongside a permanent collection featuring over 8000 works from Canadian and international artists, there’s also a quirky permanent exhibition of ceramics and linocuts by Pablo Picasso in this spacious museum bursting with natural light. 

3. Enjoy the buss of Broadway Avenue

A short walk across the Broadway Bridge brings cinematic city views followed by a stroll into arguably the most vibrant corner of Saskatoon. Airy breweries , buzzing bistros, kitsch vinyl stores and the iconic Broadway Theatre fringe Broadway Ave, which is a fine spot to spend a morning, afternoon or evening (perhaps even all three?). 

4. Take yourself on a tour of downtown's murals and architecture

Back in downtown, discover an art-splashed city on a self-guided street art tour passing by huge murals and multicolored installations spanning 20th and 23rd Street East. Even if you’re not staying there, the Delta Bessborough Hotel is something of a work of art itself. Completed in 1935, the Bessborough is a soaring Châteauesque turreted and gabled affair reminiscent of Bavarian castles that looks startlingly out of place.

5. See how Saskatoon was

Towards the edge of the city, the Western Development Museum’s compelling Boomtown exhibit is an indoor reconstruction of a typical Saskatchewan small-town main street from 1910, complete with a blacksmith, church and train station.

6. Taste local produce at the farmers market

And for a true experience of this land, it’s worth a visit to the Saskatoon Farmers Market  – an institution running since 1975 and stuffed with vendors selling everything from wild berries to handmade moccasins.

My favorite thing to do in Saskatoon

There’s a magical quality to watching the sun sink behind the widescreen horizon at Wanuskewin Heritage Park . Not like the picture-postcard sunsets you see on Caribbean beaches, it’s more of a calming, spiritual feeling as the sun’s soft glow fades across the marshy creeks and wooded ridges of the Opamihaw Valley. Shortly after, I watched the moon rise against a blue evening canvas. Known as nēhiyawēwin in Plains Cree, Wanuskewin roughly translates to "seeking peace of mind" and that name couldn’t be more apt. 

Around 20 minutes north of downtown Saskatoon, Wanuskewin tells the story of the Northern Plains Indigenous People’s spiritual relationship to this land and the living creatures they share it with, most notably the repopulated bison. You can explore panels, artwork, interactive classes, traditional food and much more, but most importantly that story – which is never sugarcoated – is told by Indigenous People themselves. Few experiences I’ve had in North America have felt deeper and more enlightening than this one.

How much money do I need for Saskatoon?

• Hostel room: $79
• Hotel room for two: $94
• Public transport ticket: $3
• Coffee: $3.60
• Sandwich: $3
• Dinner for two: $73
• Beer/pint at a bar: $5.80

Budget for your time in Canada with out money-saving tips

Should I visit in winter?

With an average temperature of -13°C (8°F) in January, winter in Saskatoon is only for the hardiest of souls. However, one bonus of a visit in this season – along with budget-friendly prices – is the chance of seeing the northern lights, with the aurora's stunning swirls sometimes visible if the stars align (no pun intended). Just remember to pack plenty of layers.

What language is spoken in Saskatoon?

Though English and French are official languages in Saskatchewan, English is by far the most spoken language in Saskatoon and you’ll need it for all of your interactions. 

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Biscuit Visits the Big City (My First I Can Read) Hardcover – Illustrated, January 24, 2006

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For fans of Clifford and Spot, welcome everybody’s favorite little yellow puppy, Biscuit, in an I Can Read adventure!

The city is a big, busy place for a little yellow puppy. From gazing at the tops of tall buildings to chasing pigeons across crowded sidewalks, there's so much to do! There are more people than Biscuit's ever seen before, too -- and so many new friends to make!

Biscuit Visits the Big City , a My First I Can Read book, is carefully crafted using basic language, word repetition, sight words, and sweet illustrations—which means it's perfect for shared reading with emergent readers. 

• Reading age 4 - 8 years
• Part of series My First I Can Read
• Print length 32 pages
• Language English
• Lexile measure 230L
• Dimensions 5.62 x 0.38 x 8.5 inches
• Publisher HarperCollins
• Publication date January 24, 2006
• ISBN-10 0060741643
• ISBN-13 978-0060741648
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Alyssa Satin Capucilli  is the author of the bestselling Biscuit books as well as the Katy Duck books and many other beloved children's books. She lives in a book-filled home in Hastings-on-Hudson, New York

Pat Schories 's   engaging illustrations of the puppy Biscuit are modeled on her own dog. In addition to having illustrated all the Biscuit books, she is also the artist and author of  He's Your Dog  and  Mouse Around.  Ms. Schories lives in Cold Spring, New York.

Product details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ HarperCollins; Illustrated edition (January 24, 2006)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 32 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0060741643
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0060741648
• Reading age ‏ : ‎ 4 - 8 years
• Lexile measure ‏ : ‎ 230L
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 5.9 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.62 x 0.38 x 8.5 inches
• #10,548 in Children's Dog Books (Books)
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Alyssa Satin Capucilli is the author of the popular books about the little yellow puppy named Biscuit. She lives in Hastings-on-Hudson, New York.

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US, Britain urge Hamas to accept Israeli truce proposal

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The Protesters and the President

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Peter Baker , the chief White House correspondent for The New York Times covering President Biden and his administration.

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As crews cleared the remnants of an encampment at U.C.L.A., students and faculty members wondered how the university could have handled protests over the war in Gaza so badly .

Biden denounced violence on campus , breaking his silence after a rash of arrests.

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Jonathan Wolfe is a senior staff editor on the newsletters team at The Times. More about Jonathan Wolfe

Peter Baker is the chief White House correspondent for The Times. He has covered the last five presidents and sometimes writes analytical pieces that place presidents and their administrations in a larger context and historical framework. More about Peter Baker

Luke Vander Ploeg is a senior producer on “The Daily” and a reporter for the National Desk covering the Midwest. More about Luke Vander Ploeg

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