Manhattan, one of the five boroughs of New York City, is packed with world-famous landmarks, buzzing neighbourhoods, and a skyline that's instantly recognisable. Whether you're strolling through Central Park, admiring the lights of Times Square, or taking in the views from the Empire State Building, there's never a dull moment. The city's cultural scene is just as iconic, with Broadway theatres, renowned museums like The Met and Guggenheim Museum, and some of the best dining options in the world.
Manhattan Hotels
Want to be on the doorstep of all the action in the city that never sleeps? Then book a hotel in downtown Manhattan. A favourite for those wanting both quality and convenience is Hotel Riu Plaza Manhattan Times Square, with 4 star standards, great views and just a short walk from the main shopping and entertainment areas. If you’re jet-lagged you may appreciate an early breakfast, so with a central Manhattan stay you’ll be just a short stroll from 24/7 diners, so if you fancy pancakes at 5am or a bacon, egg and cheese roll at 6am, that’s no problem!
Manhattan Restaurants
Choosing a New York restaurant can be a challenge, as there’s so many to pick from! If you love spaghetti, risotto, pizza, tiramisu and gelato, book a table at one of Little Italy’s restaurants or the renowned Carmine's Restaurant Manhattan (there’s two locations - one near Times Square, the other on Broadway).
Head to Chinatown for authentic dim sum and hand-pulled noodles, or explore Koreatown's bustling BBQ joints. Craving a burger? Shake Shack and JG Melon are local favourites. For something upscale, book a table at Le Bernardin or Eleven Madison Park for a world-class dining experience. And if you're in the mood for a quick bite, the city’s food trucks serve everything from pulled pork nachos to halal gyros.
Don’t get confused if someone mentions Hell’s Kitchen while you’re in New York - they’re likely talking about a West Manhattan district, not a Gordon Ramsey restaurant. However, it’s still a foodie hotspot, boasting a wide selection of ethnic eateries, allowing you to sample Caribbean, Mexican, Peruvian, Thai, Argentine dishes and more.
New York Film Locations
With so many movies and TV series being set in Manhattan, why not seek out some filming locations on your New York City Break? The Plaza Hotel was used in Home Alone 2, while fans of Gossip Girl will recognise the Empire State Building. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to find the Central Perk cafe, but if you head to 90 Bedford Street, Greenwich Village you’ll recognise it as the exterior of the apartment block from Friends. Grand Central Terminal is worth visiting, even if you don’t have a train to catch, just to admire its Beaux-Arts design. If you’re a fan of The Avengers it has the added bonus of being where part of the movie was shot.
Do bear in mind that not all films and TV shows set in New York are actually shot in the city. For instance, the majority of the TV series Suits was filmed in Toronto, while The Batman (2022) was actually shot in the UK. So you won’t always be able to hunt down famous NYC filming locations in Manhattan!
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