Flights from Zurich (ZRH) to New York (NYC)

About New York

Discover New York

Why visit New York?
New York is a city of neighbourhoods, skylines, and stories, where iconic avenues meet character-filled side streets. You will find world-famous landmarks, intimate parks, and a constantly evolving cultural scene that feels energetic at any hour.

What to expect
Each borough has its own personality, from the towers of Midtown Manhattan to the converted warehouses of Brooklyn and the waterfront promenades along the Hudson. You can move from quiet residential blocks to bright theatre districts within minutes, with museums, galleries, and riverside paths linking it all together.

Plan your trip
New York works well for first-time city breaks, extended stays, and as a base to explore the wider region of the US East Coast. With multiple airports, extensive public transport, and a clear grid layout in many areas, it is straightforward to combine must-see sights with time in lesser-known neighbourhoods.

Top sights in New York

Central Park

Walk, cycle, or simply sit by the lake in this vast green space that offers meadows, woodland paths, and city skyline views.

Times Square

Experience the bright billboards, theatres, and lively atmosphere at one of the city’s most recognisable crossroads.

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

Take a harbour cruise to see the statue up close and learn about the city’s immigrant history at Ellis Island.

Brooklyn Bridge

Stroll across this historic bridge for sweeping views of Lower Manhattan and the Brooklyn waterfront.

The High Line

Follow this elevated park built on a former railway line, lined with art installations, planting, and views over the West Side.

Museum Mile

Explore a cluster of major museums along Fifth Avenue, including renowned collections of art, design, and history.

Top of the Rock or One World Observatory

Head up to an observation deck for panoramic views of the city, from Central Park to the harbour and beyond.

Experience New York’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
The subway and commuter rail lines are usually the fastest way to cover longer distances across the boroughs. For a different perspective, take a ferry along the Hudson or East River, then use buses or walking for the final stretch to your destination.

Local life & culture
Neighbourhoods each have a distinct character, with tree-lined streets in parts of Brooklyn, busy business districts in Midtown, and creative hubs such as the Lower East Side. Street performers, galleries, and pop-up events keep public spaces active throughout the week.

Where to unwind
You can find quieter corners in riverside parks, pocket gardens, and along the waterfront promenades in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for calmer walks, when the light softens and local residents are out for exercise or a relaxed stroll.

A taste of New York

Street food & local specialties
New York’s food scene ranges from classic pizza slices and bagels to food trucks serving global flavours. Areas like Midtown, the Financial District, and Queens offer compact streets where you can sample a variety of quick, satisfying options.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Revitalised neighbourhoods and mixed-use developments gather cafés, bistros, and contemporary eateries in one place. You can move between shared plates, comforting mains, and desserts, with portions that make it easy to try several dishes with friends.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable meal, look for restaurants with skyline or river views in Midtown, Lower Manhattan, or across the river in Brooklyn. Elevated venues combine refined menus with city panoramas, turning a lunch or dinner into part of your sightseeing.

Retail therapy in New York

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Large department stores and vertical malls bring together fashion, lifestyle brands, and dining in central locations like Midtown and Lower Manhattan. These spaces often include entertainment or cultural elements, making them easy places to spend a few hours between sights.

Markets & local crafts
Neighbourhood markets and independent boutiques appear in districts such as SoHo, Williamsburg, and parts of Brooklyn Heights. Here you can browse design-led goods, vintage finds, and smaller local labels that offer a different take on the city’s style.

Evening retail scene
After dark, key shopping avenues and certain districts remain active, with illuminated window displays and late-opening stores. Seasonal pop-ups and themed markets also appear, and extensive public transport helps you return easily to your hotel once you have finished exploring.

Best time to visit New York

Spring
From April to June, spring brings milder days with average temperatures around 12–22°C (54–72°F) and trees in full leaf. It is a shoulder season, with comfortable weather for walking tours, park visits, and outdoor events as the city shifts from winter to summer.

Summer
July to August is warm and often humid, with average temperatures around 24–29°C (75–84°F). This is the peak season, when rooftop venues, riverside spaces, and outdoor concerts are in full swing, and long daylight hours give you more time to explore.

Autumn and winter
From September to early November, autumn offers crisp air and averages of 10–20°C (50–68°F), while December to March can be colder, often between -3–8°C (27–46°F). These periods form a mix of shoulder season and low season, with festive lights, indoor attractions, and quieter parks adding a different charm.

Frequently Asked Questions