It's the most wonderful time of the year...
New York is magical all year round. But there's something extra special about a winter trip to the Big Apple. Wrap up warm and brave the cold to see the lavish Christmas decorations, snowy Central Park, and the sparkling ice rinks. Memories (and Instagram pics!) to last a lifetime.
Whether you're travelling with little ones, or on a romantic trip for you, check out our suggested itineraries to celebrate the festive season in style!
Winter holidays from £597pp
The perfect winter's day in New York City
There's so much to see and do in New York, particularly in the winter season, that you will enjoy yourselves no matter what. We've picked out our favourite activities to give you some ideas.
Morning
For families:
Breakfast at Ellen's Stardust Diner is a must to set yourself up for the day. Then head to Children's Museum of Manhattan, where there are so many hands on exhibits to enjoy.
For couples:
Grab a takeaway coffee and a pastry, and enjoy a romantic stroll through Central Park. Whether it's fully immersed in snow, or just slightly frosty, you'll enjoy the cold winter's air, and maybe a spot of ice skating too?!
Afternoon
For families:
Time to visit frosty Central Park. Enjoy the playgrounds, ice rink, carousel, and maybe even a trip to the Zoo?! Afterwards, visit the famous christmas tree at the Rockefeller Centre for more christmas magic.
For couples:
Head to the Top of the Rock. Late afternoon is our favourite time to visit, as you get to see all of New York in both the sunshine, and the moonlight (with all the sparkling Christmas decorations). On your way down you might even fancy a bit of ice skating?!
Evening
For families:
Enjoy a family friendly dinner in Times Square. The bright lights will be magical for the little ones, and they can pop into the M&M store afterfor some chocolate filled souvenirs.
For couples:
Don't miss out on the Christmas Spectacular by the Rockettes at Radio City Musicaly. Afterwards enjoy one of the bars of Midtown that has outdoor igloos or heated gardens so you can still enjoy the lights of the city whilst sipping on a co*cktail.
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Suggested itineraries
If you need a bit more guidance planning your trip, so that you don't miss out on the festive favourites, then we've put together some longer itineraries for you to peruse.
New York for couples
Romantic walks through a wintery Central Park, rooftop co*cktails with views of the christmas lights, and evenings shows at Radio City - winter can be the perfect time to wrap up warm and relax with your favourite person in New York.
We've put together the 'must-do's' for your winter city break with your other half.
See ourcouples winter break itinerary
Couples breaks from £597pp
New York for families
The magic of the Christmas decorations, the possibility of snow, and the fun of ice skating - New York can be enjoyed by all ages at christmas, and the little ones will find it particularly memerising.
It might be hard for you to plan a way to keep all the family happy on your winter break, so we've put together a suggested itinerary to help you on your way.
See ourfamily winter break itinerary
Family holidays from £597pp
Essential Information
The weather in winter in New York is cold, with the average temperature being just above freezing. The wind chill can make it feel colder, so you'll definitely need to take plenty of warm clothes with you!
New York is a great place to walk around, as there's always something to see and it's easy to navigate. However, if you're a bit too cold to walk, the Subway is a cheap and easy way to get around the city.
You can also get the train from Penn Station, and change for the Sky Train, to reach JFK Airport. This is a cheaper option than getting a taxi, although the cabs do have a flat fare from Midtown, so you can prepare in advance for how much it'll be. Virgin Atlantic fly to New York daily.
In New York, they are 5 hours behind the UK.
The prodminant language is American English.
The official currency of New York is the US dollar.
To travel to the USA, you will need anESTA visaand it must be approved at least3 days before you head off on holiday.Find outmore about Travel Visas here»
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We are continually reviewing our flying schedules,taking into accountthe Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advice against all non-essential travel. Depending on when you are due to travel, your holiday may beaffectedand we’ll email you to let youknow as least 21 days before travel.
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