The Big Apple is so vast, dynamic, and attraction-packed that it can be challenging for visitors to know where to start. Luckily, New York City tours take the guesswork out of exploring this almost limitless city. Find your footing—even if it's sky-high—when you soak up the cityscape from the top of the Empire State Building or One World Observatory, or get a new angle when you cruise the New York Harbor (and greet Lady Liberty up close). From helicopter flights and hop-on hop-off bus passes to neighborhood walks, there are almost endless ways to discover—and fall in love with—New York.
Yes—New York City is jam-packed with exciting things to see and do, which can make it overwhelming to explore on your own. NYC tours help you experience the things that make the city so famous, from walking tours through famous neighborhoods to sightseeing cruises, museum admission passes, and food tours.
Q:How much do New York City tours cost?
A:
Prices vary widely by activity. Self-guided tours can cost as little as US$5, while private sightseeing tours can cost over US$1,000. Most tours fall somewhere in between. In general, expect to pay more for tours that include admission tickets, food and drinks, or transportation.
Q:What do you see on New York City tours?
A:
NYC tours are as diverse as the city itself. Choose from sightseeing tours that highlight popular Midtown attractions like the Empire State Building and Chrysler Tower; walking tours through the cobbled streets of SoHo and Greenwich Village; or tours that take you into other boroughs like Brooklyn and Queens. You can also prebook admission tickets to top attractions like the 9/11 Memorial Museum, Edge Observation Deck, or SUMMIT One Vanderbilt. No matter what you choose, a tour can give you a better sense of all that New York has to offer.
Q:How many days in New York City is enough?
A:
You could spend weeks in New York and never run out of new things to see and do, but for most travelers, five to seven days is the sweet spot. That gives you enough time to check out the highlights, explore a few different neighborhoods, and have some downtime to relax between activities.
Q:What is the best month to visit New York City?
A:
Late spring (May–June) and early fall (September–October) are nothing short of magical, when temperatures are mild and rain is unlikely. Though winter is cold, it’s worth bundling up for quintessential NYC events like the Thanksgiving Day Parade or ice skating at Rockefeller Center. Summer tends toward hot and muggy, but is ideal for visiting Coney Island, taking sightseeing cruises, or visiting rooftop bars.