Traveling to New York for the first time can be quite exciting. Whether you’re intrigued by the bustling energy of Times Square, eager to admire the iconic skyline from the Empire State Building, or looking to immerse yourself in the city’s diverse neighborhoods, we’ve compiled a wealth of practical tips to make your first visit to New York unforgettable.

Read on and prepare for an exhilarating adventure in New York, where every corner tells a new story and every street holds a new discovery.

1. Visa and Passport for New York

Let’s start with the basics: without a valid visa or passport, you can’t travel to New York. Always apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before departure to ensure your visa is in order.

Additionally, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date, as otherwise, you may be denied entry.

2. Transport in New York

To get around New York, the best option is to use the subway. The subway is fast, reliable, and easy to navigate. Purchase a MetroCard and familiarize yourself with a map of the subway network in advance. With a MetroCard, you pay per ride.

You can also use taxis or Uber, but you might spend more time in traffic. Especially from the airport, this is the most expensive and slowest option.

3. Accommodation

Accommodations in New York are not cheap. During our city trip to New York, we stayed in a hotel in Brooklyn, one of the most enjoyable neighborhoods in New York. Because this area is a bit farther from the center, it’s also cheaper to stay there than in Manhattan, for example.

Another option is to look for an Airbnb, where you stay via a private landlord. This is usually cheaper and often the host provides practical and personal tips for things to do in New York.

4. Attractions in New York

Many attractions in New York are heavily visited. To avoid missing out, buy tickets in advance for the places you really want to see, like the Empire State Building, Broadway shows, or museums. This ensures you have a ticket and don’t have to queue on-site. Check out fun activities in New York here.

5. Food in New York

New York City is a paradise for food lovers, offering a dizzying array of culinary experiences that reflect its diverse cultural tapestry. From iconic street food to high-end dining, every corner of the city has something delicious to offer.

Iconic New York Foods

1. Pizza: A Slice of Heaven

No trip to New York is complete without indulging in a slice of its legendary pizza. From thin-crust classics to creative gourmet toppings, New York’s pizzerias are world-renowned.

Must-Try Spots:

• Joe’s Pizza: Located in Greenwich Village, Joe’s Pizza is famous for its classic New York slice. The thin, crispy crust topped with a perfect blend of cheese and tomato sauce is a must-try.
• Di Fara Pizza: In Brooklyn, Di Fara is a family-owned pizzeria that’s been serving up some of the best slices in the city for decades. Be prepared for a wait, but it’s worth every minute.

Tips:

• Order a plain cheese slice to truly appreciate the quality of the crust and sauce.
• Try a “white slice” for a different flavor profile, featuring ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan without tomato sauce.

2. Bagels: The Breakfast Staple

New York bagels are renowned for their chewy texture and flavorful crust, a result of the city’s unique water and traditional boiling method.

Must-Try Spots:

• Ess-a-Bagel: Located in Midtown, Ess-a-Bagel offers a wide variety of bagels and spreads. Try their everything bagel with lox and cream cheese.
• Russ & Daughters: A Lower East Side institution, this deli serves up some of the best bagels and smoked fish in the city.

Tips:

• For an authentic experience, order a bagel with a “schmear” of cream cheese.
• Try different toppings like lox, capers, and red onions.

3. Hot Dogs: A Quick Bite

Hot dogs are a quintessential New York street food, perfect for a quick and tasty meal on the go.

Must-Try Spots:

• Gray’s Papaya: Famous for its “Recession Special” (two hot dogs and a drink), Gray’s Papaya is a beloved hot dog joint with several locations in the city.
• Nathan’s Famous: Head to Coney Island for a taste of the original Nathan’s hot dogs, a New York institution since 1916.

Tips:

• Top your hot dog with sauerkraut, onions, and mustard for a classic New York flavor.
• Pair your hot dog with a papaya drink at Gray’s Papaya for a unique taste combination.

4. Cheesecake: Decadent Desserts

New York-style cheesecake is rich, dense, and creamy, with a graham cracker crust that’s simply irresistible.

Must-Try Spots:

• Junior’s: Known for its legendary cheesecake, Junior’s in Brooklyn offers a variety of flavors, including original, strawberry, and chocolate.
• Eileen’s Special Cheesecake: This NoLita bakery is famed for its light and fluffy cheesecakes, available in various sizes and flavors.

Tips:

• Try the classic plain cheesecake for the purest taste.
• Pair your cheesecake with a cup of coffee for a perfect dessert experience.

Budget-Friendly Eats

1. Food Trucks: Gourmet on the Go

Food trucks are a fantastic way to enjoy gourmet food without breaking the bank. You’ll find them scattered throughout the city, offering everything from tacos to falafel.

Must-Try Trucks:

• The Halal Guys: Originally a hot dog cart, The Halal Guys now serve some of the best chicken and rice platters in the city, with locations all over Manhattan.
• Calexico: This truck offers delicious Mexican fare, including tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, with several locations in the city.

Tips:

• Follow your favorite food trucks on social media to find out their daily locations.
• Visit during off-peak hours to avoid long lines.

2. Deli Sandwiches: Hearty and Satisfying

New York delis are famous for their oversized sandwiches, loaded with fresh ingredients and packed with flavor.

Must-Try Spots:

• Katz’s Delicatessen: A Lower East Side landmark, Katz’s is known for its pastrami and corned beef sandwiches. Don’t forget to try their pickles!
• Carnegie Deli: Though the original location has closed, you can still find Carnegie Deli sandwiches at various locations throughout the city.

Tips:

• Split a sandwich with a friend—they’re huge!
• Order a side of matzo ball soup for a complete deli experience.

Street Food Safety Tips

While enjoying street food, it’s essential to keep a few safety tips in mind:

1. Look for Cleanliness: Choose vendors that appear clean and busy. High turnover means fresher food.
2. Check for Permits: Legitimate vendors should display a permit from the city’s health department.
3. Be Mindful of Allergies: If you have food allergies, be sure to ask about ingredients and potential cross-contamination.
4. Stay Hydrated: Carry a bottle of water, especially if you’re trying spicy foods.

6. Weather in New York

New York can be visited year-round. Be aware that it sometimes snows in winter, which can affect air travel.

To avoid crowds, consider visiting in late May, early June, or September. The weather is still pleasant, and there are fewer tourists.

7. Useful Apps

In New York, many practical apps can help you. Use Uber for affordable taxi rides and Google Maps to find your way anywhere.

The NYC Ferry app makes it easy to buy ferry tickets. Find more handy travel apps here.

8. Culture and Behavior

New York City is known for its diverse and vibrant culture, with an exceptionally high number of nationalities represented. While there aren’t many cultural differences from Belgium, it’s important to respect everyone and remember that many people in New York are in a hurry. Don’t get in their way.

Metro etiquette is crucial: don’t eat on the subway, don’t take up seats with your backpack, don’t block the doors, and avoid staring at people as it’s considered rude.

9. Planning and Itinerary

Before traveling to New York, it’s best to create a travel plan. We usually search the internet for things we want to do, then check travel guides for extra information.

New York is vast, with so much to see that it’s best to plan day by day what you want to see and do. This way, you won’t waste time on-site. Discover more tips for planning a trip here.

10. Special Events and Seasonal Activities

Be aware of special events and seasonal activities in New York. The New York Marathon, for example, takes place annually, closing certain parts of the city. The Christmas period is also extremely busy in New York.

Check in advance which events are happening. If you want to attend a sporting event, see if it fits into your schedule.

11. Plugs and Adapters

For New York, you’ll need a travel adapter, as they use type A plugs (two flat pins). If you have multiple devices to charge, it’s best to buy a few adapters. We usually charge our smartphones on the go with a power bank.

12. WiFi and SIM Card

WiFi is usually available in hotels and restaurants, but consider buying a local SIM card for internet access on the go. An eSIM is best if your smartphone supports it. We always buy our eSIM through Airalo. Use code SAM3623 to get $3 off your first purchase.

13. Additional Practical Tips for a Trip to New York

Here are some additional practical tips to keep in mind before traveling to New York:

• New York is 6 hours behind Belgium and the Netherlands;
• Be mindful of your jet lag;
• Wear comfortable shoes, as you will walk a lot;
• Review customs regulations if you plan to bring certain products into New York;
• Equip your suitcase with a TSA lock. This gives customs access to the contents of your suitcase. Otherwise, it might be broken open;
• Avoid holidays and busy periods (school vacations).

14. How Long Do You Need for Your First Time in New York?

We stayed in New York for five nights during our first trip to the Big Apple. We believe this is the minimum to visit the highlights. You can also combine a trip to New York with a road trip in East America, which would require about two weeks.

15. Emergency Numbers

The general emergency number in New York is 911. You can call 911 for emergencies, including medical issues, fires, crimes, or other immediate public safety threats. It’s important to use this number for serious emergencies, as it provides access to services like police, fire departments, and medical assistance.