Flights to New York

Exploring New York often feels like walking around a film set. Book flights to New York with Airinme.com and feel like a star in your own movie.

New York lives up to its reputation and defies expectations at the same time. The city is always tearing up the rule book, so every visit you make will always be different. Take in the views atop one of its skyscrapers, see a show on Broadway or dine out at its ever-changing restaurant scene: whatever you do in New York, you'll make memories that last a lifetime. Book flights to New York City from the UK with Airinme.com today.

Things to do in New York 

1. New York is a metropolis and it can seem overwhelming to a first-time visitor. Take a tour on your first day and get to know it. Walking tours and bus tours are particularly popular, but New York's bike sharing scheme is also a great way for confident urban cyclists to see the city.
2. Got something specific in mind? Choose a tour that fits in with your interests. Sex and the city tours are great fun for friends on a city break, while Famous Fat Dave's five-borough food tour is one for serious eaters only.
3. Art fans rejoice: New York is home to some of the world's most riveting galleries and museums. Don't miss the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Guggenheim Museum – just to get you started.
4. Manhattan's Central Park is the city's crowning glory. Grab a hot dog and spend your afternoon walking around this green oasis in New York.
5. On holiday with children? Central Park Zoo is a must-see. Coincide your visit with Penguin feeding time, which takes place at 10.30am and 2.30pm everyday.
6. Times Square can be astonishingly busy but no visit to New York would be complete without a glimpse of these bright lights. Take a quick walk around on your way to a Broadway show.
7. If musicals aren't your thing, look for something a bit more sophisticated at the Metropolitan Opera or Carnegie Hall, two of the city's greatest classical music venues.
8. Got a head for heights? Enjoy fantastic views of New York's world-famous cityscape from viewing chambers across the city. The Empire State Building, the Rockefeller Centre and the Statue of Liberty are all great options.
9. Connecting the boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn, the Brooklyn Bridge is one of New York's best loved icons. Walk, drive or cycle along the bridge to join in the appreciation.
10. Time your visit to New York with Thanksgiving (which falls in November) to catch the famous Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. In March, the St. Patrick's Day Parade is another great city event.

Shopping in New York

New York is one of the world's fashion capitals, but shopping in this city isn't all about Louis Vuitton and Jimmy Choo. Head towards Brooklyn and you'll find great vintage clothing too.

Fifth Avenue

Perhaps the most famous street in New York after Broadway, Fifth Avenue is home to New York's Apple Store as well as major names like Tiffany & Co., Chanel, Nike and Prada.

Department Stores

New York's famous department stores offer days of retail therapy and truly come alive at Christmas. Be sure to visit the famous Bloomingdale's, Macy's, JC Penny, Saks and Barney's while you're in the city.

Eating in New York

New York's history as a cultural melting pot is nowhere more evident than in its diverse cuisine. There's always something for travellers on all budgets too.

Iconic New York foods

So many foods are closely associated with New York – don't leave town without trying a typical New York bagel, a hot dog from a street vendor, or a slice of pizza from a classic New York pizzeria.

Where to eat in New York

New York's restaurants are spread out across the city and its restaurant scene is in constant flux. But don't miss out on tourists' favourites, like Katz's Delicatessen, and make sure you sample the fare on offer in Chinatown, Little Italy and Flushing, Queens.

Tipping

As in the rest of the US, tipping is obligatory in NYC. As a general rule, tip 20% of your total bill in a restaurant but bear in mind you may have to tip the maitre d' separately at some eateries.

Insider's Tips

For general emergencies, call 911. Dial 311 for general information.

Under the US Visa Waiver Programme, UK citizens can visit the USA for up to 90 days without a visa. However, you will need to supply your details via ESTA at least 72 hours before you arrive.

Not sure how you'll get around? Check out the MTA website for details of New York's extensive subway, rail and bus system. It's also helpful to always carry a copy of the subway map with you too.

Buying a multi-attraction pass – like the New York Pass or New York City Pass – could help save time and money on your trip.

Getting there from New York Airport

Public Transport

Both of New York's international airports – John F. Kennedy International Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport – are connected to Manhattan via the Airtrain, which runs 24 hours a day, every day of the year. This is the easiest way to get into the city.

Shuttle Bus

The NYC Airporter is a shuttle bus service that runs from JFK to Manhattan. The Newark Airport Express Bus connects this airport with New York City.

Taxis

Taxis are available at both airports, but make sure you take a cab from a designated stand to ensure you get into a licensed vehicle. See JFK airport and Newark airport for further details.

Car hire

Avoid driving a car in New York City if you can. But if you're travelling further afield in the USA, you can rent a car from rental desks in both airports.