North America
United States travel guide
The United States is huge, so most visitors focus on one or two cities per trip. New York is the classic first stop, with world-class museums, neighbourhoods and skyline views.
Photo: Rhododendrites / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0
United States at a glance
- Currency
- US dollar (USD). Cards and contactless work almost everywhere. Tip 18–20% at sit-down restaurants; sales tax is added at the till.
- Language
- English (and about 200 others).
- Plugs
- Type A/B, 120 V. Most European chargers work but need a plug adapter.
- Emergency number
- 911
- Entry
- Many visitors need an ESTA or a visa. Check the official US government sites before you travel.
- Getting around
City guides for United States
New York
New York rewards a plan. The big sights are worth it, but timed tickets sell out, sunset slots cost more and the best views are often free (hello, Staten Island Ferry). This hub links every New York guide we have: the best things to do, where to stay, a 4-day first-timer itinerary and honest ticket comparisons.
If you only have one day in New York
- Walk the Brooklyn Bridge: Opened in 1883, the bridge has a raised wooden walkway above the traffic, so you get Manhattan’s skyline and the Statue of Liberty in one stroll. It’s free and there’s no ticket.
- Get lost in Central Park: At 843 acres it’s bigger than a lot of city centres. Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge, Strawberry Fields and the Reservoir loop are the classics, and they’re all free.
- One skyline deck (choose wisely): Seeing the grid from above is a must. Top of the Rock gives you the Empire State Building and Central Park in one frame. Edge has an outdoor deck with a glass floor. Summit One Vanderbilt is an immersive mirror-room experience. The Empire State Building is the classic.
- Best time to go
- Late April–June and September–early November for mild weather. December for holiday lights (busy). July–August is hot and humid.
- From the airport
- From JFK: AirTrain to Jamaica, then LIRR or subway (E, J/Z) into Manhattan. Yellow cabs from JFK to Manhattan charge a flat fare plus surcharges and tolls – check the current rate.
United States travel FAQ
How many days do I need in New York?
Four days covers the classics at a comfortable pace: Lower Manhattan, Midtown, Central Park with a museum, and the West Side and the Village. With 5–7 days you can add Brooklyn neighbourhoods, Queens food and a day trip.
Do I need to tip in the US?
Tipping is customary in restaurants and for many services in the US. Check the bill, because some places add a service charge.
Travelling to United States?
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