Christmas in New York City: My Perfect 3-Day Itinerary for 2025

The holiday season in New York City is pure magic. From sparkling decorations on every corner to ice skating under the lights and the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, the whole city feels like one big festive movie set.

I’ve celebrated Christmas in New York myself, and it’s truly one of the most memorable trips I’ve ever taken. The city transforms into a winter wonderland that makes the holiday spirit impossible to resist, even with the crowds and chilly weather.

If you’re planning a Christmas getaway to NYC, I’ve put together my ultimate 3-day New York City Christmas itinerary. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this guide will help you experience the best of the season and soak up all the festive cheer.

Christmas in New York – My Experience

I’ve been to New York a few times now, in pretty much every season, but Christmas in New York easily stands out as one of my favorites. Honestly, I don’t think I’ve ever been anywhere else in the world where Christmas is taken quite this seriously. The lights, the decorations, the massive trees, it’s exactly how you picture it in your head, and New York really goes all in. I loved every bit of it.

Of course, I did all the classic holiday activities too. I went ice skating beneath the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, strolled past The Plaza Hotel (yes, the famous one from Home Alone 2), and browsed the Union Square Holiday Market with a cup of hot chocolate in hand.

That said, I want to be honest, it’s not all perfect. Christmas in New York is very expensive. Hotels skyrocket in price, activities cost more, and even grabbing a quick bite can add up fast. On top of that, the city is absolutely packed with tourists (probably more than at any other time of the year). But even with the crowds and the cost, I still thought it was magical and completely worth experiencing at least once.

My New York City Christmas Itinerary

Day 1: Rockefeller Christmas Tree & Radio City Music Hall

Morning: Breakfast & Rockefeller Center

One of the first things I figure out when I’m in a new city is breakfast. It’s just a non-negotiable for me, good food and coffee before anything else. In Midtown, my go-to is Blue Dog Cookhouse (50th & 8th). It’s cozy, the coffee is strong, and in December it’s the perfect place to warm up before heading into the madness of Christmas in New York.

I’ve had both the French toast with berries (heaven) and the eggs benedict (also excellent). Either way, you’ll leave happy.

From there it’s only about an 8-minute walk to Rockefeller Center, which is basically the place everyone pictures when they think “Christmas in New York.” The giant Christmas tree, the ice skating rink and the crowds.

Yes, it’s touristy, but it’s also one of those things you have to see at least once. I didn’t bother skating (those lines are no joke), but just standing there with the tree lit up and the music playing is enough to feel the Christmas atmosphere.

If you want to add something extra, the Top of the Rock observation deck is right there and gives you one of the best skyline views in the city.

Afternoon: Union Square Holiday Market

In the afternoon, I like to head down to the Union Square Holiday Market. It’s not as over-the-top as Rockefeller, but it’s one of my favorite Christmas markets in New York. The stalls are full of handmade gifts, ornaments, and more food than you’ll know what to do with.

I usually grab a hot chocolate (or mulled wine, if you’re in the mood), pick up some snacks, and just wander for a while. It’s a nice change of pace from the Midtown chaos. The market is open weekdays 11 AM–8 PM, Saturdays 10 AM–8 PM, and Sundays 11 AM–7 PM through the holidays. If you can, go in the late afternoon when the lights start to glow, it feels much cozier then.

Evening: Radio City Music Hall

To wrap up the day, I recommend a show at Radio City Music Hall. At Christmas they run the Christmas Spectacular with the Rockettes, which is about as festive as it gets in New York. It’s glitzy, fun, and honestly one of those experiences that I won’t forget anytime soon.

It does get busy, so book tickets in advance if you can. And if you’re not visiting during December, Radio City still has concerts and events year-round, so it’s always worth checking what’s on.

Day 2: Christmas Markets & Holiday Lights

Morning: A Proper Diner Breakfast

One of the best parts of being in New York is starting the day at a diner, and my favorite is Westway Diner. If you’re American, it might just feel like your regular neighborhood spot, but for everyone else it’s almost like stepping into a bit of New York culture.

The portions are huge, with pancakes, bacon, eggs, French toast, and of course, coffee that just keeps coming. I usually order way more than I need and then wonder how I’m supposed to walk afterwards, but honestly, that’s half the fun.

Afternoon: Holiday Train Show & Bryant Park

After breakfast, it’s worth heading up to the Bronx for the Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden. Trains weave through tiny versions of NYC landmarks, all made out of natural materials like wood and bark.

Back in Manhattan, I always make time for Bryant Park’s Winter Village. For me, this is one of the best Christmas markets in New York with lots of little stalls, good food, and a big ice rink in the middle. I usually skip skating (I know my limits).

Evening: Dyker Heights Christmas Lights

In the evening, head out to Brooklyn to see the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights. This neighborhood goes completely over the top with decorations with entire houses covered in lights, inflatable Santas, and front yards that look like mini amusement parks.

The easiest way to see it is by joining one of the tours that leave from Manhattan. They drop you right in the middle of the action, and it saves you figuring out the subway late at night. I really enjoyed just wandering the streets with a hot drink, people-watching, and admiring how committed the locals are to decorating. It’s busy, it’s a bit chaotic, but it’s also a lot of fun and a great way to wrap up the day.

Day 3: Fifth Avenue & The Plaza Hotel in New York

Morning: Breakfast at The Smith

For my last day in New York, I wanted to start it somewhere a little special, so I went to The Smith. It’s not the cheapest option for breakfast, but I really enjoyed it. I had brunch here, and it felt like a bit of a treat.They have amazing baked eggs, omelets, and even oysters which I didn’t try myself but apperently they are really good. 

I really enjoyed the breakfast here and it did feel a little fancy but I guess that’s what I was going for, I wanted to end the trip on a high note.

Late Morning: Central Park Stroll

Afterwards, I walked off breakfast in Central Park. I love the park at any time of year, but there’s something about it during the holidays that feels extra special.

It wasn’t super snowy when I was there which was a shame but I still love wandering around Central Park especially all being bundled up in my coat on a sunny winter day.

Afternoon: Fifth Avenue Window Displays

From the park, it’s an easy walk straight to Fifth Avenue, and honestly, the holiday window displays here are one of the best free things you can do in New York at Christmas. Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, Tiffany’s, they all go completely over the top, but I love look through them!

I’m not a big shopper, but I loved walking up and down Fifth Avenue, hot drink in hand, just taking in the lights and decorations. It’s busy, yes, but it’s also the kind of busy that feels festive rather than stressful.

Late Afternoon: Afternoon Tea at The Plaza Hotel

I couldn’t resist popping into the Plaza Hotel, yes, the same one from Home Alone 2. I didn’t stay there (very much out of budget), but having afternoon tea was such a fun way to experience the place without needing a room key.

It’s classic New York luxury: tiered stands with finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries, all in this grand setting right at the edge of Central Park. It felt like a splurge, but it was also a really relaxed way to pause in the middle of a busy sightseeing day.

Evening: Empire State Building

To wrap up the trip, I went to the Empire State Building. It’s touristy, it’s crowded, and yet, it’s still worth it. Seeing the city lit up at night from the top is one of those views that just doesn’t get old.

If you can, I’d recommend booking a sunset slot, it’s incredible watching the skyline shift from day to night. Tickets do sell out quickly at this time of year, so it’s worth planning ahead.

It was the perfect way to finish off three days of Christmas in New York: a little bit classic, a little bit festive, and just the right amount of sparkle without overdoing it.

Where to Stay in New York at Christmas

If you’re coming to New York for the holidays, where you stay matters even more. I like being able to step outside and be in the middle of it all, especially in December when the big sights are packed into a few blocks. I don’t want to jump on the subway first thing in the morning; I’d rather walk to a couple of spots before coffee.

That’s why Midtown Manhattan is my go-to at Christmas. You’re an easy walk from the Rockefeller Center tree and ice rink, the Fifth Avenue window displays, Radio City Music Hall, Bryant Park’s Winter Village, Times Square, the Empire State Building, and even Central Park.

Yes, it’s pricier than other areas, but in December the convenience really pays off, especially when it’s cold and you want to pop back to the hotel to warm up. If you can, book early.

Here are a few hotels I’ve stayed at and would happily recommend:

Book Here: Concorde Hotel New York

Book Here: The Renwick

Book Here: Aka Central Park

FAQs on My Christmas in New York Itinerary

What to do for Christmas in New York with kids?

Honestly, most of the classic Christmas activities in New York are great for kids. They’ll especially love skating at the Rockefeller Center ice rink and wandering through the Union Square Holiday Market with a hot chocolate in hand. Both feel festive without being overwhelming for little ones.

How to spend Christmas in New York?

For me, it’s less about ticking off a list and more about just enjoying the festive atmosphere. I’d suggest going with the flow and picking a couple of festive spots each day. My favorites are Fifth Avenue for the holiday windows and, of course, Rockefeller Center, it doesn’t really get more “Christmas in New York” than that.

Is Christmas in NYC worth it?

Absolutely. It is busy (sometimes very busy), but the atmosphere makes up for it. If crowds aren’t your thing, consider visiting at the end of November. Most of the decorations and lights are already up by then, so you still get the full festive vibe with a little more breathing room.

When is the best time for Christmas in New York City?

If you want the full Christmas spirit, close to the actual holiday is hard to beat. But if you’d rather skip the biggest crowds (and sometimes the highest prices), late November or very early December is a great time to go too.

Final Thoughts on Christmas in New York City

To wrap this up, I honestly think Christmas in New York is one of the most magical times to be in the city. I’ve been to New York a few times now and celebrated Christmas in different places around the world, but New York always stands out for me.

Yes, it’s a little bit cheesy and commercial, but in a super fun way, it really does look like it does in Home Alone 2. I loved the giant trees, the over-the-top decorations, and the way the whole city throws itself into the season. It doesn’t have that cozy, traditional feel of a German Christmas market, but it’s festive in its own big, bold, Coca-Cola-Santa kind of way.

I hope my little Christmas in New York itinerary helps you get your bearings and plan your own holiday trip. And if you do go, I promise, even with the crowds and the costs, it’s the kind of experience you won’t forget.

Check Out My Other New York City Travel Itinerary

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First Time in New York City: My First Timers Guide for NYC

Christmas in New York: My NYC Christmas Itinerary

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