# 🇺🇸 New York — United States

> New York delivers a city break with unmatched intensity, from Manhattan’s skyline and Times Square lights to long walks through Central Park. Israeli travelers come for shopping on Fifth Avenue, in SoHo and at Woodbury Common, a Broadway show, and skyline views from SUMMIT One Vanderbilt or Edge. Chelsea Market and the High Line, Brooklyn Bridge and Williamsburg can each fill a very different day. A large Jewish community, Chabad centers and an exceptional range of kosher restaurants also make the city convenient for couples, families and observant travelers.

## Quick facts

- **Country:** United States
- **Currency:** USD ($)
- **Time zone:** 7- שעות מול ת״א בדרך כלל
- **Language:** אנגלית
- **Power plug:** A / B · 120V
- **Visa for Israelis:** ישראלים בעלי דרכון ביומטרי זקוקים בדרך כלל לאישור ESTA מראש לביקור קצר; אחרים עשויים להזדקק לוויזה
- **Safety:** יעד תיירותי נוח ברוב האזורים המרכזיים; מומלץ להיזהר מכייסות, לשמור על ערנות בסאבוויי ולהימנע מרחובות שוממים בלילה
- **Main airport (IATA):** NYC
- **Trips from:** ₪5,990 / 6 nights
- **Traveler rating:** 4.9/5

## Best time to visit

- **Recommended months:** April, May, June, September, October, December
- **Peak season for Israelis:** Israelis visit year-round, with notable peaks during Passover and the July-August school holiday despite the hot, humid summer. May, June, September and October offer better walking weather, while December is popular for holiday decorations, ice skating and the winter atmosphere.

## Weather by month

Measured in New York.

| Month | Avg. temp | Conditions |
| --- | --- | --- |
| ינו | 4°C | Cool |
| פבר | 6°C | Cool |
| מרץ | 10°C | Cool |
| אפר | 17°C | Excellent |
| מאי | 22°C | Excellent |
| יונ | 27°C | Excellent |
| יול | 29°C | Excellent |
| אוג | 28°C | Excellent |
| ספט | 24°C | Excellent |
| אוק | 18°C | Excellent |
| נוב | 12°C | Cool |
| דצמ | 7°C | Excellent |

## Where to stay

- **Midtown Manhattan** — Best for: Families and first-time visitors. The easiest base for travelers who want Times Square, Broadway, Fifth Avenue and Bryant Park within walking distance. Hotels such as M Social Times Square and Hilton Garden Inn Times Square Central are popular for their location, but the area around 42nd Street and Broadway is noisy, crowded and expensive at almost every hour.
- **Upper West Side** — Best for: Families, Shabbat-observant travelers and those seeking calm. A pleasant neighborhood between Central Park and Riverside Park, with the American Museum of Natural History, synagogues and kosher food along Broadway and Amsterdam Avenue. Hotel Belleclaire is a well-known base, and the streets are much calmer than Times Square, though trips downtown and into Brooklyn take longer.
- **SoHo and Nolita** — Best for: Couples, shoppers and luxury breaks. The cast-iron buildings of Greene and Spring Streets are surrounded by stores such as Aritzia, Nike, Zara and luxury boutiques, with Nolita and the West Village within walking distance. The Dominick and Crosby Street Hotel deliver a polished stay, but rates are high, bargains are rare and weekend sidewalks become packed.
- **Lower East Side and East Village** — Best for: Young travelers, bars and nightlife. Orchard Street, Ludlow Street and St. Marks Place are packed with bars, music venues, vintage shops and energy that lasts late into the night. The Ludlow Hotel sits in the heart of the action near the Tenement Museum, but street noise, small rooms and fewer direct subway lines are part of the deal.
- **Williamsburg, Brooklyn** — Best for: Young couples, food lovers and skyline seekers. Bedford Avenue, Domino Park and weekend Smorgasburg combine cafés, rooftop bars and Manhattan views across the East River. Wythe Hotel and The William Vale are standout choices, but the neighborhood is no longer cheap and the L train can be crowded or disrupted by weekend maintenance.
- **Long Island City, Queens** — Best for: Budget travelers and families wanting more space. Around Queens Plaza and Court Square, modern hotels come with quick Midtown access on the E, M, 7, N and W lines, while Gantry Plaza State Park offers one of the best Manhattan sunset views. Hyatt Place Long Island City is a practical base, but the district feels corporate and some streets become quiet after business hours.

## Getting around

- **Airport to city:** From JFK, the best-value route is the AirTrain to Jamaica followed by the LIRR to Penn Station or Grand Central, taking about 40-60 minutes and usually costing ₪55-80 per person; the cheaper alternative is the AirTrain plus the E subway, around 60-90 minutes and roughly ₪45-55. A yellow taxi from JFK to Manhattan uses a flat fare, but tolls, surcharges and tip usually bring the total to ₪300-390, with a 45-90 minute journey; Uber or Lyft typically costs ₪250-500 depending on demand. From Newark, AirTrain and NJ Transit to Penn Station take about 40-60 minutes and cost around ₪60-75, while a taxi or app ride to Manhattan is generally ₪300-500; from LaGuardia, the Q70 bus connecting to the subway is cheapest, while a taxi or app ride to Midtown is about ₪140-280 and takes 25-60 minutes. Shared shuttles from all three airports usually cost ₪100-180 per person, but multiple hotel pickups and drop-offs can greatly extend the ride.
- **Do you need a car?** You do not need a car within New York, and even families are better served by the subway, buses and taxis. Manhattan parking can cost ₪180-320 per day, tolls and congestion add expense, and hotel parking may cost more than a nearby garage. Rent only for the day you leave the city, such as for Woodbury Common, the Hamptons or the Hudson Valley, rather than for the whole trip.
- **Transport tips:** Pay on subways and buses through OMNY by tapping the same credit card or phone each time, allowing the system to apply its weekly fare cap automatically; each passenger needs a separate payment method to benefit from the cap. Download Citymapper alongside Google Maps, and check service changes before late-night and weekend journeys. Yellow cabs accept cards, and during peak periods compare them with Uber and Lyft; for a scenic, inexpensive trip between Brooklyn and Manhattan, use NYC Ferry instead of a taxi.

## What it costs (for Israeli travelers)

- **Round-trip flight from TLV:** ₪2,300-4,800 (holidays: ₪6,000+)
- **4-5 night package:** ₪5,000-9,500 per person
- **Mid-range hotel nightly:** ₪850-1,650 (per room)
- **Five-star hotel nightly:** ₪2,000-4,500 (per room)
- **Restaurant meal:** ₪100-220 per person
- **Local beer:** ₪28-45
- **Coffee:** ₪15-25
- **Short taxi ride:** ₪45-100
- **Rental car per day:** ₪250-500 (before parking)
- **Broadway ticket:** ₪250-750
- **Daily budget per person:** ₪650-1,200 (with lodging)
- **Family, five nights:** ₪24,000-40,000 (for four)

## Kosher food, Chabad & Jewish community

- **Chabad house:** Chabad of Midtown operates on 46th Street in the Diamond District, within walking distance of Times Square, offering services, classes and, at selected times, advance-registration Shabbat meals. The Upper West Side has a broad Jewish community, synagogues such as West Side Institutional Synagogue on 76th Street and many kosher shops; in Brooklyn, visitors can reach 770 Eastern Parkway in Crown Heights, Chabad's world headquarters. Check service times, security procedures and meal registration in advance, especially around Jewish holidays. — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Chabad%20New%20York%20New%20York)
- **Kosher food:** In Midtown, Israeli travelers commonly choose Abaita on 39th Street for dairy Italian food, Mr. Broadway on 38th Street for a broad meat menu, and Miznon Kosher near Times Square for quick Israeli dishes; confirm that the certification suits your standards when booking. On the Upper West Side, options include Noi Due and Modern Bread and Bag, while Williamsburg and Crown Heights offer another major concentration of kosher restaurants and bakeries. For groceries, larger Whole Foods, Trader Joe's and Morton Williams branches stock many OU- and OK-marked products, and travelers often order to the room via Instacart or buy breakfast and Shabbat supplies at Zabar's, checking certification item by item.

## Attractions

- **Statue of Liberty** (Duration: 4–5 hours) — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Statue%20of%20Liberty%20New%20York)
- **Central Park** (Duration: 2–4 hours) — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Central%20Park%20New%20York)
- **SUMMIT One Vanderbilt** (Duration: 1.5–2 hours) — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=SUMMIT%20One%20Vanderbilt%20New%20York)
- **Edge** (Duration: 1–1.5 hours) — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Edge%20New%20York)
- **Top of The Rock** (Duration: 1–1.5 hours) — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Top%20of%20The%20Rock%20New%20York)
- **Times Square** (Duration: 45–90 minutes) — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Times%20Square%20New%20York)
- **Brooklyn Bridge** (Duration: 1–2 hours) — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Brooklyn%20Bridge%20New%20York)
- **The High Line** (Duration: 1–2 hours) — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=The%20High%20Line%20New%20York)
- **The Metropolitan Museum of Art** (Duration: 3–4 hours) — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=The%20Metropolitan%20Museum%20of%20Art%20New%20York)
- **American Museum of Natural History** (Duration: 3–4 hours) — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=American%20Museum%20of%20Natural%20History%20New%20York)
- **9/11 Memorial & Museum** (Duration: 2–3 hours) — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=9%2F11%20Memorial%20%26%20Museum%20New%20York)
- **Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises** (Duration: 1.5–2.5 hours) — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Circle%20Line%20Sightseeing%20Cruises%20New%20York)
- **Luna Park in Coney Island** (Duration: 4–6 hours) — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Luna%20Park%20in%20Coney%20Island%20New%20York)
- **Woodbury Common Premium Outlets** (Duration: 7–9 hours) — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Woodbury%20Common%20Premium%20Outlets%20New%20York)

## Restaurants

- **Abaita** (מידטאון איסט, 145 E 49th St, ₪₪₪) — One of the city's most sought-after kosher restaurants, serving modern Italian food. Israeli diners favor the wood-fired pizzas, pastas and fish, and advance reservations are strongly recommended. — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Abaita%20New%20York)
- **Le Marais** (מידטאון, 150 W 46th St ליד טיימס סקוור, ₪₪₪₪) — The classic kosher institution near Broadway, particularly convenient before a show. Diners come for steaks, burgers and brasserie-style sides. — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Le%20Marais%20New%20York)
- **Reserve Cut** (פייננשל דיסטריקט, 40 Broad St, ₪₪₪₪) — An upscale kosher steakhouse suited to a celebratory Downtown dinner. Israeli guests come for premium beef cuts, burgers and kosher sushi in an elegant setting. — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Reserve%20Cut%20New%20York)
- **Mr. Broadway** (רובע הבגדים, 209 W 38th St, ₪₪₪) — A longstanding, convenient address near Times Square and Macy's with a broad menu suited to groups and families. Israeli diners choose shawarma, burgers, sushi and grilled dishes. — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Mr.%20Broadway%20New%20York)
- **Noi Due Cafe** (אפר וסט סייד, 491 Columbus Ave, ₪₪₪) — A popular kosher Italian café near Central Park and the natural-history museum. Pastas, pizzas, salads and fish are served in a welcoming neighborhood setting. — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Noi%20Due%20Cafe%20New%20York)
- **Talia's Steakhouse and Bar** (אפר וסט סייד, 668 Amsterdam Ave, ₪₪₪) — A veteran kosher steakhouse particularly useful for Shabbat-observant travelers, with prepaid Shabbat meals available by reservation. The menu centers on steaks, burgers and generous grilled dishes. — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Talia's%20Steakhouse%20and%20Bar%20New%20York)
- **12 Chairs Cafe** (סוהו, 56 MacDougal St, ₪₪) — One of SoHo's best-known Israeli cafés, with an atmosphere that feels almost Tel Avivian. Israelis come for shakshuka, hummus, salads and breakfast, though the restaurant is not kosher. — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=12%20Chairs%20Cafe%20New%20York)
- **Miznon** (צ׳לסי מרקט, 75 9th Ave, ₪₪) — A popular Israeli stop inside Chelsea Market, ideal during a High Line day. The whole roasted cauliflower, falafel and vegetable-filled pitas are favorites, though this branch is not kosher. — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Miznon%20New%20York)
- **Katz's Delicatessen** (לואר איסט סייד, 205 E Houston St, ₪₪) — A historic New York institution known for its enormous pastrami sandwich and old-school counter ritual. Despite its Jewish identity, it is not kosher, and peak-time lines can be long. — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Katz's%20Delicatessen%20New%20York)
- **Shuka** (סוהו, 38 MacDougal St, ₪₪₪) — A lively Mediterranean restaurant popular for brunch or dinner in SoHo. Israelis enjoy the hummus, labneh, salads and fish, but the kitchen is not kosher, so individual dietary needs require care. — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Shuka%20New%20York)

## Nightlife

- **230 Fifth Rooftop Bar** — Rooftop bar — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=230%20Fifth%20Rooftop%20Bar%20New%20York)
- **The Skylark** — Rooftop bar — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=The%20Skylark%20New%20York)
- **Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge** — Rooftop bar — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Magic%20Hour%20Rooftop%20Bar%20%26%20Lounge%20New%20York)
- **Westlight** — Rooftop bar — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Westlight%20New%20York)
- **Elsewhere** — Club — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Elsewhere%20New%20York)
- **House of Yes** — Club — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=House%20of%20Yes%20New%20York)
- **Marquee New York** — Club — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Marquee%20New%20York%20New%20York)
- **Nebula** — Club — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Nebula%20New%20York)
- **The DL** — Rooftop bar and club — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=The%20DL%20New%20York)
- **The Dead Rabbit** — Pub and cocktail bar — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=The%20Dead%20Rabbit%20New%20York)
- **The Press Lounge** — Rooftop bar — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=The%20Press%20Lounge%20New%20York)
- **Stone Street** — Bar street — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Stone%20Street%20New%20York)

## Casinos

- **Resorts World New York City** (In hotel Hyatt Regency JFK Airport at Resorts World New York) — A large Queens casino near JFK with video gaming machines and electronic table games but no live dealers; admission is 18+ and visitors should carry a passport. — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Resorts%20World%20New%20York%20City%20New%20York)
- **Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts** — A Yonkers casino with thousands of machines and electronic table games, but no live-dealer tables; admission is 18+ and a passport is recommended. — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Empire%20City%20Casino%20by%20MGM%20Resorts%20New%20York)

## Shopping

- **Woodbury Common Premium Outlets** (Brand store, Area: Central Valley, roughly 1 to 1.5 hours from Manhattan) — The classic Israeli outlet day, with hundreds of stores including Nike, Polo Ralph Lauren, Coach, Gucci and The North Face; arrive early with spare luggage space. — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Woodbury%20Common%20Premium%20Outlets%20New%20York)
- **The Mills at Jersey Gardens** (Brand store, Area: Elizabeth, New Jersey) — A convenient indoor outlet mall near Newark, popular for Primark, Nike Factory Store and Marshalls, plus New Jersey's sales-tax exemption on most clothing and footwear. — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=The%20Mills%20at%20Jersey%20Gardens%20New%20York)
- **The Shops at Columbus Circle** (Mall, Area: Columbus Circle, Manhattan) — An elegant mall beside Central Park, useful for premium brands and an air-conditioned shopping break during a Midtown day. — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=The%20Shops%20at%20Columbus%20Circle%20New%20York)
- **Westfield World Trade Center** (Mall, Area: The Oculus, Financial District) — A striking and highly accessible shopping center beneath the Oculus, combining fashion, beauty and technology brands with a major transit hub. — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Westfield%20World%20Trade%20Center%20New%20York)
- **Macy's Herald Square** (Brand store, Area: Herald Square, Manhattan) — The iconic department store Israelis browse for Levi's, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, shoes, luggage and seasonal deals. — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Macy's%20Herald%20Square%20New%20York)
- **Bloomingdale's 59th Street** (Brand store, Area: Upper East Side, Manhattan) — A classic New York department store for designer labels, cosmetics and accessories, offering a more polished experience than discount stores. — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Bloomingdale's%2059th%20Street%20New%20York)
- **Nordstrom NYC Flagship** (Brand store, Area: 57th Street and Broadway, Manhattan) — A large flagship near Central Park with shoes, designer fashion, beauty and strong service, especially good for premium American labels. — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Nordstrom%20NYC%20Flagship%20New%20York)
- **Primark Brooklyn City Point** (Brand store, Area: Downtown Brooklyn) — A go-to branch for Israelis buying children's clothing, pajamas, basics and accessories at notably low prices. — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Primark%20Brooklyn%20City%20Point%20New%20York)
- **UNIQLO Fifth Avenue** (Brand store, Area: Fifth Avenue, Midtown) — A huge flagship for HEATTECH, lightweight jackets, fleece and practical basics at relatively approachable New York prices. — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=UNIQLO%20Fifth%20Avenue%20New%20York)
- **ZARA 666 Fifth Avenue** (Brand store, Area: Fifth Avenue, Midtown) — A central branch easily combined with Fifth Avenue shopping, where Israelis check collections, sizing and promotions that may differ from home. — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=ZARA%20666%20Fifth%20Avenue%20New%20York)
- **Sephora Times Square** (Brand store, Area: Times Square, Manhattan) — A must for beauty shoppers seeking American brands, exclusive sets and travel sizes; it is usually very crowded in the evening. — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Sephora%20Times%20Square%20New%20York)
- **Chelsea Market** (Market, Area: Chelsea, Manhattan) — Beyond food, it is a strong stop for gifts, art, books, design and local maker goods, with Artists & Fleas inside the complex. — [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Chelsea%20Market%20New%20York)

## Suggested itinerary

1. **Day 1: Midtown, Fifth Avenue and Broadway** — Start at Bryant Park and the New York Public Library before 9:00, then continue to Grand Central, St. Patrick's Cathedral and the Fifth Avenue window displays. Visit Top of the Rock in the late afternoon, as its view includes both the Empire State Building and Central Park. Have a kosher meal at Mr. Broadway or Abaita, then finish with a Broadway musical, using the Times Square TKTS booth for discounted tickets if your plans are flexible.
2. **Day 2: Downtown, the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge** — Prebook an early ferry from Battery Park to Liberty Island and Ellis Island, ideally departing before 9:00 to reduce waiting. Return to Wall Street, the Charging Bull and the 9/11 Memorial, allowing about two hours if entering the museum. Near sunset, walk across Brooklyn Bridge from Manhattan, take the classic Washington Street photograph in DUMBO and finish along Brooklyn Bridge Park facing the skyline.
3. **Day 3: Central Park and museums** — Enter Central Park at Columbus Circle and continue through Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge and The Mall; families can add the zoo or rent bicycles while staying on designated cycling routes. Choose one major museum, either the Metropolitan Museum of Art or the American Museum of Natural History, because attempting both in one day is exhausting. Eat at Modern Bread and Bag or Noi Due on the Upper West Side, then spend the evening around Lincoln Center and Riverside Park.
4. **Day 4: Chelsea, the High Line and SoHo** — Begin at Hudson Yards and view The Vessel from outside, then walk south along the High Line before the path becomes crowded. Stop at Chelsea Market, continue to the West Village's stone-lined streets and Washington Square Park, and have a kosher lunch at Abaita or Miznon Kosher depending on your route. Spend the afternoon shopping along Broadway, Prince and Greene Streets in SoHo, then catch sunset at Little Island or Pier 57.
5. **Day 5: Brooklyn Like a Local** — Travel to Williamsburg in the morning, stroll along Bedford Avenue, stop at Domino Park and visit Smorgasburg if it is operating that weekend, independently checking certification at each stall. Continue to Prospect Park and Brooklyn Botanic Garden, or Prospect Park Zoo with children. For a Jewish perspective, visit the area around 770 Eastern Parkway and Crown Heights' kosher shops; in the evening, return via NYC Ferry from North Williamsburg for illuminated skyline views.
6. **Day 6: Shopping or a Different Side of New York** — Shopping enthusiasts should leave early by dedicated bus or rental car for Woodbury Common Premium Outlets, around one to one and a half hours from Manhattan, for brands such as Nike, Levi's, Coach and Tory Burch; check promotions and baggage allowance beforehand. Those staying in the city can take the free Staten Island Ferry for Statue of Liberty views, then visit The Oculus and the stores of SoHo or Macy's at Herald Square. End the trip at sunset at either Edge or SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, choosing just one and reserving a timed entry in advance.

## VAYULOR tips

- 💳 Almost everything in New York can be paid by card, but always choose to be charged in US dollars rather than shekels and remember that the city's 8.875% sales tax is added to the displayed price.
- 🚇 On the subway, always tap the same card or digital wallet at OMNY gates, otherwise the system will not combine your rides toward the weekly fare cap.
- 🏨 Israeli families are especially comfortable on the Upper West Side near the 1, 2 and 3 lines, couples will enjoy SoHo or Tribeca, and younger travelers seeking bars should stay on the Lower East Side rather than inside Times Square.
- 🎟️ Book SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, the Statue of Liberty and popular Broadway shows in advance, and choose a SUMMIT entry about 45 minutes before sunset to experience both daylight and the illuminated city.
- 🗽 Access to the Statue of Liberty crown must be booked through the official site months ahead, while travelers who only want a free view can take the Staten Island Ferry and sit on the right when departing Manhattan.
- 🍸 Reserve rooftop bars such as Overstory or Westlight in advance and carry your physical passport, as many venues will not accept an Israeli driving licence as valid proof of age.
- 💵 At full-service restaurants, leave an 18% to 22% tip on the pre-tax amount, while yellow cabs and Uber rides generally call for about 15% to 20%.
- ✡️ For a good kosher meal, save Abaita for dairy in Midtown or Reserve Cut for meat in FiDi, and for Shabbat check meal and hospitality arrangements in advance with Chabad Midtown or the Upper East Side.
- 🛡️ Late at night, choose a subway car with other passengers and never enter a completely empty one, as New Yorkers usually have a very practical reason for avoiding it.
- 📱 Install a US eSIM before leaving Israel and save screenshots of your hotel address and directions from JFK, as mobile data can still be inconsistent in subway stations and tunnels.
- 🧥 In summer, pack breathable shoes and a light layer for aggressive air conditioning; in winter, a windproof coat, gloves and water-resistant shoes matter more than fashionable outerwear on Manhattan's long avenues.

## Frequently asked questions

**Do Israelis need a visa for New York?**

Israeli citizens with a biometric passport can generally enter New York with an ESTA for up to 90 days, and should apply through the official website at least 72 hours before departure. Travelers with a previous US visa or entry refusal, or those who do not meet the program’s conditions, should check whether a standard visa is required.

**Are there direct flights from Tel Aviv to New York, and how long is the flight?**

Nonstop flights operate from Tel Aviv to New York, mainly to JFK and sometimes Newark, although US airline schedules can change and EL AL is usually the most consistent option. The outbound flight takes roughly 11.5 to 12.5 hours, while the return is generally shorter at around 10 to 11 hours.

**When is the best time to visit New York, and when is peak season?**

The most pleasant times in New York are May to mid-June and September through October, with excellent walking weather for Central Park, SoHo and Brooklyn. Demand and prices peak during the Israeli summer holiday and from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve, especially Christmas week.

**How many days do you need in New York?**

For a first visit to New York, allow 6 to 8 nights to cover Midtown, Central Park, Downtown and Brooklyn without racing through each day. Four nights are enough for the major landmarks, but leave little time for neighborhoods, shopping and relaxed evenings.

**What is the easiest way to get around New York?**

The subway is the fastest and best-value way to get around New York, with contactless payment by card or phone at OMNY readers. Walk shorter distances, and use a yellow cab, Uber or Lyft at night or when traveling with luggage.

**How much does a couple’s trip to New York cost?**

A 6-night New York trip for two usually costs about ₪16,000 to ₪30,000 including flights from Tel Aviv, a good Manhattan hotel, food, transportation and several attractions, before serious shopping. Hotels, Broadway shows and observation decks such as SUMMIT One Vanderbilt push the budget higher, particularly in summer and December.

**Is New York safe for Israeli visitors?**

Tourist areas of New York such as Midtown, the Upper West Side, SoHo and DUMBO are busy and generally safe, but visitors should protect phones and wallets and avoid empty subway cars late at night. Israelis displaying visible Jewish symbols should monitor local alerts and stay away from protests or confrontations.

**What are the must-do attractions in New York?**

On a first New York visit, do not miss Central Park, Times Square after dark, the Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO, the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, and at least one observation deck, preferably SUMMIT One Vanderbilt or Top of the Rock. Add a Broadway musical, a walk along the High Line and a cruise past the Statue of Liberty.

**Where should you go out at night in New York, and are there casinos?**

For New York nightlife, Israelis gravitate toward the Lower East Side bars, rooftops such as Le Bain and 230 Fifth, and Brooklyn venues like Elsewhere. Manhattan has no Las Vegas-style casino; the nearest options are Resorts World New York City in Queens, focused mainly on electronic gaming, and Empire City Casino in Yonkers.

**Is kosher food and Chabad available in New York, and who is the city best for, what should you pack, or combine it with?**

New York suits couples, families and groups of friends, with extensive kosher dining at places such as Abaita, Noi Due and Reserve Cut, plus active Chabad centers including Chabad of Midtown on Fifth Avenue; families often prefer the Upper West Side, while couples enjoy SoHo or Greenwich Village. Pack comfortable walking shoes and a rain-resistant jacket, add serious layers in winter, and with at least 9 to 10 nights combine New York with Washington by train or Niagara Falls by air.

## Book through VAYULOR

- [Flights to New York](https://vayulor.com/en/destinations/usa/flights/new-york)
- [Vacation packages to New York](https://vayulor.com/en/destinations/usa/packages/new-york)
- [Hotels in New York](https://vayulor.com/en/destinations/usa/hotels/new-york)
- [eSIM data for New York](https://vayulor.com/en/esim)
- [Web version of this guide](https://vayulor.com/en/destinations/usa/new-york)
- [המדריך הזה בעברית](https://vayulor.com/he/destinations/usa/new-york.md)

_Last updated: 2026-09-09_  
_Source: VAYULOR (vayulor.com) — an Israeli travel platform: destination guides, flights, packages, hotels and eSIM. Prices on the site are live; any price in this document is an indicative starting price only._