How to Plan a Trip to New York
The complete 2026 guide — flights, hotels, things to do and airport transfers, all in one place. Everything a first-time visitor to USA needs.
Fly into
JFK
Country
USA
Suggested stay
3–5 days
Base yourself
The High Line
Your 4-step New York plan
Step 1 — Book flights to JFK
JFK Airport (JFK) is the main gateway to New York. Compare fares across major airlines and OTAs before locking a date.
See flight deals to JFKStep 2 — Pick a neighborhood
Base yourself in The High Line for the best first-time visit — Elevated railway converted to a park.
Where to stay in New YorkStep 3 — Plan your itinerary
Start with Brooklyn Bridge & DUMBO, then build outward. Most first-time visitors need 3-5 days to see the highlights of New York.
Things to do in New YorkStep 4 — Sort your airport transfer
AirTrain + Subway A/E train (to Manhattan) is $9.50 and takes 55–75 min. Pre-book a private transfer for stress-free arrival.
JFK arrival guideBefore you book — visa check
Same ESTA rules as LA. ESTA for visa-waiver countries at esta.cbp.dhs.gov.