Planning a New York Christmas weekend has been on my international bucket list forever. Here’s my ultimate itinerary on the best things to see and do in NYC in December.

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My Magical New York Christmas Weekend

Is it worth going to New York during Christmas?

I’ve always loved visiting New York in December. Even though I have a lifelong affection for European Christmas markets – especially an unforgettable trip to the French village of Colmar – spending a Christmas weekend in New York has been a dream ever since I first saw Home Alone 2. The Gossip Girl series only added to the allure, with its stunning filming locations scattered across the city.

New York is world-famous for going all out with holiday decorations. While a stroll through Central Park in autumn felt magical, I was eager to experience the city in full festive mode, hoping to wander among snow-dusted trees. Though we weren’t lucky enough to see snowfall on this trip, our December weekend in New York still became one of my favorite experiences in the U.S

Where to Stay in New York for Christmas

To make the most of a Christmas weekend in New York, I chose a relatively central location of Arthouse Hotel, though it was hard to find something without breaking the bank.

Is New York expensive at Christmas?

Christmas in New York is one of the most expensive travel experiences I’ve ever had, but I still recommend doing it at least once. You’ll quickly realize how popular the destination is when you see the sky-high hotel prices.

Is New York cold at Christmas?

Although we didn’t get snow during our visit, it was quite chilly, especially in the mornings. I didn’t wear a hat during the day, but in the mornings and at night, I was glad I had one, along with a pair of gloves, in my bag. So, be sure to layer up. In my pictures, you can see I was wearing a sweater over a white T-shirt, but those sweaters were really warm. During the day the temperatures were +7-10C/45-50F, so it was fine.

Is New York walkable in December?

It was very walkable for us since we didn’t experience rain or snow. We ended up walking around 20 km per day and only took the subway a few times. I loved wandering the streets, checking out window displays, and discovering charming cafes and restaurants along the way.

Is New York too busy at Christmas?

New York is definitely busy at Christmas, but it wasn’t impossible to see the shows or get around. However, the city felt busier than it did in autumn, so I’d say visiting during the holidays is worth it if you’re specifically seeking that festive, holiday atmosphere.

Christmas in New York City: Bucket List Experiences

Here are top experiences that should be on your bucket list for visiting New York over the Christmas holidays:

• NYC Private Holiday Lights Tour (check availability)
• Holiday Lights Extravaganza Walking Tour (check availability)
• New York Harbor Live Holiday Jazz Cruise (check availability)
• New York City Christmas Holiday Lights Sightseeing Cruise (check availability)
• NYC Manhattan Private Custom Christmas Tour with a Local Guide (check availability)
• New York City Christmas Lights Private Horse Carriage Ride (check availability)

Christmas Weekend in New York Itinerary

Day 1 – Christmas New York Itinerary

• Central Park: We started our day with a stroll through NYC iconic park, even though it was not covered in snow.
• Fifth Avenue: Afterwards, we explored the holiday window displays and decorations on this famous 5th avenue street.
• Times Square: On the go, we made a stop to experience the lights of Times Square.
• Grand Central Terminal: I was excited to stop at the most historic station in New York, beautifully decorated for the holidays.
• Lunch in New York: Near Grand Central Terminal we saw a beautiful Greek restaurant, Ammos Estiatorio, and made a stop for lunch.
• Brooklyn Bridge: After the lunch, we had a nice walk along the Brooklyn Bridge to enjoy the stunning views of the skyline.
• Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular: In the evening we went to see New York’s most famous holiday show Radio City Rockettes.

Day 2 – Christmas New York Itinerary

• Gansevoort Market: We started a morning with a breakfast at Gansevoort Market.
• Financial District & Wall Street Christmas Tree: Afterwards, we headed to the famous Wall Street area and Charging Bull bronze sculpture 
• Empire State Building: Here, we took the subway towards Empire State Building to enjoy the panoramic views of the city.
• Ukrainian lunch in New York: After getting the bird’s eye views of NYC, I could miss a chance to have a Ukrainian lunch in Veselka (even though we had to walk 30 mins)
• Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: After lunch, we took subway to Rockefeller Center to enjoy its iconic Christmas decorations, and visit Top of the Rock to see NYC at night (you need to book it in advance to avoid waiting)
• Broadway Show: We ended the day with Disney’s Aladdin on Broadway.

Christmas in New York or Christmas in Europe

While I love European Christmas markets, spending a Christmas weekend in New York felt like a truly unique holiday experience. The city’s energy was electric and vibrant, whereas Christmas in Europe tends to feel cozier and more charming. I’d say I generally prefer the markets and food in Europe, but when it comes to flashy decorations and spectacular shows, New York definitely steals the spotlight. Christmas markets in Germany, France, or Switzerland often feel like something out of a storybook, while New York felt like a perfect Christmas scene straight from a childhood dream.

More Christmas travels on the blog:

• Christmas Madrid: Top Places to Get into the Holiday Spirit
• Holiday Mood: Top Spanish Christmas songs & my Vintage Christmas Playlist
• Fairytale Christmas in Switzerland: Top 3 Cities
• Christmas in Colmar, France: The Magical Experience I Won´t Forget
• Christmas in Europe: Top 5 Destinations

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