There is so much to do in NYC that it can be overwhelming planning a trip. As a New Yorker, NYC tour company owner and travel expert, I’ve put together the ultimate 3-day NYC itinerary on what you can’t miss if you’re visiting the city for a short period of time. Watch the video and download the itinerary below to make your trip to NYC your best trip yet!

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This guide will break down each of the 3 days by morning, midday, afternoon, and evening (want a 7-day itinerary? You can get that here). I recommend spending at least a week in New York because there is so much to do here. However, if you are short on time this guide will help you make the most of your trip.

How much will visiting NYC cost me?

NYC is an expensive city, so I recommend you budget $300 to $500 per person per day for dining, lodging, attractions, transportation, and experiences. This also includes lodging costs for $120 per night factored in, which is what the average cost per night of a good Airbnb. However, if you are splitting that cost with a fellow traveler than that brings your cost per day down a lot. Airbnb my recommended lodging of choice and is NOT illegal like many people incorrectly believe. If you have never used Airbnb, you can use my link to save $65 on your first stay.

What’s the Ideal Transportation to Travel Throughout NYC?

Since three days is not a lot of time in the city, I recommend using Lyft to make the most of your time here if you are traveling between boroughs. If you’re traveling throughout Manhattan then the subway is generally the fastest option. To learn how all your transportation options, watch my video below. I recommend downloading Google Maps or CityMapper to help guide you around the city. They are generally the most accurate.

Lyft is the largest growing rideshare company in the US. They make it easy to call a car to wherever you are located and make your trip to the city much more comfortable – because let’s be real, our subway system isn’t the most glamorous experience! Use my code FUNK66734 to save $5 on your first Lyft ride.

Map for the Ultimate 3-day NYC Itinerary

Below is a map of the spots by day. Day 1 is blue, day 2 is yellow, and day 3 is red. Use this alongside the itinerary to make it easier to explore the city. If you cannot see the map below, you can access it via this link on your phone.

How can I enhance my trip to New York?

The best way to have the ultimate 3-day trip to New York City is to hire a tour guide to show you around. Luckily I know someone that is pretty great; it’s me! lol You can book a private tour with me that includes high-res photography during your trip. Click here for more details on that.

There is so much more to do in NYC than I could possibly include in the ultimate 3-day NYC itinerary. If you are staying for longer (which I encourage) I recommend you check out my 7-day itinerary to NYC and watch my YouTube series on visiting the big apple. It will help you have the perfect trip!