Itinerary · United States
First Trip to New York: Prep, Airport Transfer, Where to Stay and a 4-Day Route
Heading to New York for the first time — what should you prepare, where should you stay and how should you get around? Entry prep, JFK to Manhattan, choosing a neighborhood, riding the subway, sights to check in advance and a 4-day route.
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What to know first
New York packs world-class museums, Broadway, iconic skylines and food from every corner of the globe into one city. It suits travelers who love to walk, but hotels and dining are expensive, so plan your budget.
There are flights from Incheon to JFK (check current routes with the airlines), a straight-line distance of about 11,090 km. Check exact flight times and recent fares on the route page.
April-June and September-November offer the most pleasant walking weather. July-August is hot and humid, and January-February can be bitterly cold. The holiday season (Thanksgiving to New Year) is magical but hotel prices spike.
Before you go
Entering the US requires prior authorization such as ESTA. Apply only on the official US government site and check the US Embassy's information for conditions.
- ESTA or other entry authorization: in advance, on the official US government site
- A contactless card or phone payment: tap it at subway turnstiles
- US data (such as an eSIM) set up in advance: maps and ride apps work as soon as you land
- Listed prices exclude tax and tipping is standard at restaurants — check whether a service charge is already included
From JFK to Manhattan
The cheapest way is the AirTrain to Jamaica or Howard Beach, then the subway into Manhattan — about 60-75 minutes. The commuter rail from Jamaica is faster.
With luggage or a group, a yellow cab is easier. There is a flat fare between JFK and Manhattan plus tolls, congestion charges and tip, and the ride takes about 45-75 minutes depending on traffic.
Where to stay
For a first visit, Midtown is central to major sights and subway lines, though crowded and pricey. Choose by travel style.
- Midtown (around Times Square): first-timers and theater
- Lower Manhattan: the Financial District and 9/11 Memorial area, close to the Statue of Liberty ferries
- Chelsea and Greenwich Village: food, strolling and neighborhood charm (pricier hotels)
- Upper West Side: next to Central Park, families and quieter stays
- Brooklyn: local vibe, hotels often a bit cheaper than Manhattan, 10-20 minutes by subway
Riding the subway, and staying safe
The subway runs 24/7; tap a contactless card or phone at the turnstile. After 12 paid rides within 7 days on the same card, the rest of that week is free. Manhattan's grid makes walking easy too.
Late at night, ride in cars with other people and keep your phone and bag close. In Times Square, costumed characters and people handing out items will ask for money afterward — politely decline.
Sights to check in advance
Many popular sights have limited capacity or timed entry. Check each official source before you travel.
- Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island: official ferry from Battery Park. Pedestal and crown access is limited, so reserve early
- Observation decks: all paid, usually with timed entry. If you choose one, go at sunset
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art: closed on Wednesdays. It is huge, so pick your galleries in advance
- 9/11 Memorial: the outdoor pools are free; the museum is paid
- Broadway: same-day discount ticket booths and official lotteries exist
- Free options: Central Park, the High Line, and the Staten Island Ferry with views of the Statue of Liberty and skyline
Sample 4-day route
For a first trip, plan 4 to 6 nights. This example is based on our guide's suggested itinerary.
- Day 1: Central Park walk, The Met (closed Wednesdays, so pick another day), down Fifth Avenue to Rockefeller Center, Times Square at night
- Day 2: Statue of Liberty ferry, 9/11 Memorial and Wall Street, then walk the Brooklyn Bridge to DUMBO for sunset
- Day 3: Lunch at Chelsea Market, the High Line to Hudson Yards, an observation deck at sunset, a Broadway show
- Day 4: Greenwich Village and SoHo, then dinner in Chinatown or Little Italy, or explore Williamsburg
Plan your New York City trip
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FAQ
Do I need an ESTA for New York?
Entering the US requires prior authorization such as ESTA. Apply only on the official US government site and check the US Embassy's information.
What is the cheapest way from JFK to Manhattan?
The AirTrain to Jamaica or Howard Beach, then the subway — about 60-75 minutes.
Where should I stay on a first trip?
Midtown is most central for sights and subway lines. The Upper West Side is quieter, and Brooklyn is often a bit cheaper.
When is the best time to visit New York?
April-June and September-November are the most pleasant for walking. Summers are hot and humid, and January-February can be bitterly cold.
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