7 day itinerary for New York

Itinerary

New York City is a fantastic place to explore, and with a week to spend, you can see so much without breaking the bank. The subway is a great way to get around, and I’ll make sure to include some budget-friendly options. Let’s dive into your 7-day itinerary!

## Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Midtown

• Morning: Arrive in NYC and check into your accommodation. If you’re staying in a budget-friendly hostel or hotel, drop off your bags and get ready to explore!
• Afternoon: Head to Times Square. It’s touristy, but it’s a must-see! Snap some photos and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
• Lunch: Grab a slice of pizza at Joe’s Pizza (a classic!).
• Evening: Walk to Bryant Park. It’s a lovely spot to relax, and you can often find free events or just enjoy the scenery.
• Dinner: Try The Halal Guys for some delicious street food. Their platters are filling and affordable!

## Day 2: Central Park and Museums

• Morning: Start your day with a stroll through Central Park. Don’t miss the Bethesda Terrace and Bow Bridge!
• Lunch: Pack a picnic or grab a bagel from a nearby deli to enjoy in the park.
• Afternoon: Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Pay what you wish for entry, and you can spend hours exploring the vast collections.
• Evening: Head to the Upper West Side and enjoy a casual dinner at Shake Shack for some tasty burgers and shakes.
• Night: If you’re up for it, take a walk along the Hudson River Park for beautiful views of the skyline.

## Day 3: Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn

• Morning: Take the subway to Battery Park and catch a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty from the shore. If you want to visit the island, consider the ferry (it’s a bit pricier, but worth it!).
• Lunch: Head to Stone Street for some outdoor dining options. There are plenty of budget-friendly spots.
• Afternoon: Visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum (the memorial is free, but the museum has an entry fee).
• Evening: Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge at sunset for stunning views.
• Dinner: Once in Brooklyn, grab a slice at Juliana’s Pizza or a burger at Friedman’s.

## Day 4: Culture and Neighborhoods

• Morning: Explore Chinatown and Little Italy. Grab some dim sum or cannoli for breakfast!
• Lunch: Try Xi’an Famous Foods for some delicious hand-pulled noodles.
• Afternoon: Head to SoHo for some window shopping and art galleries.
• Evening: Visit the High Line, an elevated park built on a former railway line. It’s a beautiful walk with great views.
• Dinner: Check out Chelsea Market for a variety of affordable food options.

## Day 5: Museums and More Parks

• Morning: Visit the American Museum of Natural History. Again, pay what you wish for entry!
• Lunch: Grab a sandwich from a deli nearby.
• Afternoon: Spend some time in Central Park again or visit The Cloisters (part of the Met, located in Fort Tryon Park) for a different vibe.
• Evening: Head back to the city and enjoy dinner at Los Tacos No. 1 in Chelsea for some amazing tacos.
• Night: If you’re feeling adventurous, check out a free comedy show at a local venue!

## Day 6: Iconic NYC

• Morning: Visit the Empire State Building or Top of the Rock for stunning views of the city (consider going early to avoid crowds).
• Lunch: Try Katz’s Delicatessen for a classic pastrami sandwich (it’s a bit pricier, but worth it for the experience!).
• Afternoon: Explore the East Village and West Village. Check out Washington Square Park and the surrounding area.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at Bleecker Street Pizza or a local food truck.
• Night: Catch some live music at a local bar or venue.

## Day 7: Last Day and Souvenirs

• Morning: Visit Brooklyn Heights and take a stroll along the Brooklyn Promenade for stunning views of Manhattan.
• Lunch: Grab a bite at Time Out Market in Dumbo for a variety of affordable options.
• Afternoon: Head back to Manhattan and do some last-minute shopping or visit any spots you may have missed.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local favorite, like The Meatball Shop.
• Night: If you have time, take a nighttime stroll through Times Square one last time!

Tips:

• Subway Pass: Consider getting a 7-day unlimited MetroCard for easy subway travel.
• Free Events: Keep an eye out for free events happening during your stay, like concerts or festivals.
• Walking: NYC is a great city for walking, so wear comfortable shoes!

I hope this itinerary helps you have an amazing week in New York City! Enjoy every moment! 🌆✨