york day trip reddit

York in a Day: The Perfect One-Day Itinerary for York, England

Today we have a guest post from Kelsey from Sights Better Seen on the perfect one-day itinerary for York. Kelsey studied abroad in York, so she has lots of great travel tips and photos to share. Without further ado!

Anytime someone tells me they’re going to England, I tell them to head straight to York. Founded by the Romans in 71 AD, York is one of England’s oldest and most beautiful cities. Around every corner, you’ll find medieval architecture, half-timbered houses, or boxes of colorful flowers. It’s absolutely gorgeous.

Table of Contents

Why you should take a day trip to York

Here’s why I fell head over heels in love with this medieval English city and why you probably will, too:

• It’s super haunted – York is hailed as the most haunted city in Europe – some even argue it’s the most haunted city in the world . With 140 ghosts and more than 500 hauntings, they might be right.
• It’s easily walkable – York is a small city, so you don’t have to bother with public transportation. The city center is just a 15-minute walk from the train station.
• It’s safe – As a solo female traveler, I found York to be an extremely safe and welcoming place to visit.

P.S. You can also scroll to the bottom of this post for a free map of what to include in your one-day York itinerary, which you can download and use offline with an app like Google Maps.

Getting to York

York is located in Northern England; it’s 3.5 hours north of London by car . If you travel by train, it takes about 2 hours, making a day trip to York from London totally doable.

Your one day in York itinerary: What to do, see, eat, and drink

Have a full english breakfast at partisan.

Only a five-minute walk from the train station, Partisan is a great place to start your day trip to York. I recommend trying Partisan’s full English breakfast which consists of fried eggs, sausages, back bacon, tomatoes, mushrooms, toast, beans, and black pudding. It’s absolutely delicious. If you’re not a meat-eater, Partisan also offers vegetarian and vegan versions of the full English breakfast.

Walk the City Walls

Originally built by the Romans, York is encircled by medieval city walls (they’re actually the longest medieval town walls in England !). What’s neat is you can walk on top of the walls, which offer stunning views of the city. It takes an hour or so to walk the complete loop, which is about 2 miles long.

The walls can be a little crowded, so I recommend visiting them right when they open (8 a.m.) or just before they close (dusk). They’re free to visit, so I suggest hopping on and off the wall as you explore York. You can do a free self-guided tour — click here to read more . You can also do a private guided tour of the walls — check current prices here .

Marvel at the city’s gatehouses (known as “bars”)

The wall is punctuated by “bars”, meaning gatehouses, which were used in medieval times to collect tolls. There are four main bars meaning in York: Bootham Bar, Monk Bar, Walmgate Bar, and Micklegate Bar. I recommend seeing all of them!

See a museum (or five)

York is home to many excellent museums. My personal favorite is the York Castle Museum. Though it’s no longer a castle, it’s a former prison that has been converted into a quirky mixture of exhibits: You can walk down an old Victorian street, visit an 18th-century debtor’s prison, step back into the 1960s, and so much more.

Here are some other unique museums to see while in York:

• Vikings at JORVIK Viking Centre : A museum dedicated to all things Viking, featuring reconstructions of old Viking settlements. £12.50 for adults.
• National Railway Museum : If you love trains, you’ll be enamored with this museum. It’s also free!
• York’s Chocolate Story : Do I really have to convince you to go to a chocolate museum? You get to make your own chocolate bar and learn all about the history of this delicious sweet. £12.95 for adults.
• York Art Gallery : A public art gallery with a collection dating back to the 14th century. £7.27 for adults.

Enjoy afternoon tea at Betty’s

In operation since 1936, Betty’s is THE place to have afternoon tea in York. I recommend ordering the Traditional Afternoon Tea that comes with tea sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, and a pot of tea. It costs £20 per person. If you’re on a budget, you can get the abbreviated version for £10 per person, which comes with tea and two scones.

Stroll through the Shambles

The Shambles is a small, narrow street that dates back to the Middle Ages. Walking down the street, you’ll wonder if you’ve just teleported straight into Hogwarts. Funnily enough, the Shambles is one of the locations that reportedly inspired Diagon Alley. You’ll even find several Harry Potter-themed stores there.

Along with the Harry Potter-themed stores, you’ll find all kinds of quirky and fun shops: chocolate shops, a cheese store, craft beer sellers, bakeries, to name a few. There’s a lot to do on the Shambles, so be sure to leave some time to explore.

Try a pasty at The Cornish Bakery

If you’re feeling peckish, stop by the Cornish Bakery for a pasty. A pasty is a traditional baked good that originated in the southwest of England; It’s basically a folded pie that’s filled with meat, cheese, and/or vegetables.

If you’re a vegetarian, I highly recommend trying the sweet potato and feta pasty at the Cornish Bakery — it’s amazing!

Visit the York Minster, York’s beautiful cathedral

Next, stop by the York Minster . Locally known as “The Minster”, this enormous Gothic cathedral is arguably York’s most famous landmark. I recommend paying to see inside the cathedral, as the interior is just as beautiful as the outside. An adult ticket costs £16.50, which includes both a church and a tower visit. The tower provides beautiful views of the city, so I highly recommend paying to go up.

Tip – if you visit an hour or two before the Minster closes, you’ll hear the choir singing the Evensong, which is the evening service. It’s also much less crowded at this time, which is always a plus in my book.

Have dinner at The Golden Fleece

The Golden Fleece is a traditional English pub that’s also the most haunted pub in York. Fifteen different ghosts “live” in the hotel! The most commonly seen ghost is Lady Alice Peckett, whose husband, John Peckett, owned the hotel and was mayor of York.

Foodwise, the Golden Fleece serves traditional pub food but offers vegetarian options, too. If you stay for dessert, be sure to get the sticky toffee pudding – it’s amazing!

Go on a ghost tour

If you stay later in the evening, you HAVE to go on a ghost tour in York. I recommend the Shadows of York Ghost Walk which costs £6 for adults. The Original Ghost Walk of York also comes highly recommended and costs £5 for adults. You can also book the York ghost bus tour here , which lasts 75 minutes and includes a comedy show.

Sip cocktails at Evil Eye

This quirky, dimly lit bar has a brightly painted interior that’s the perfect place to escape the rainy English weather. Evil Eye is known for its impressive selection of gin but serves an array of creative cocktails with many other spirits as well. You can even book a gin tasting or learn to make cocktails!

A map of the best things to do on a one-day itinerary in York:

When to visit York

November & December – In November and December, get into the Christmas spirit by visiting the York Christmas Festival, where you can enjoy warm cups of gluhwein, delicious baked goods, and fun activities.

February – In February, visit York to see the Yorvik Viking festival, which is an entire week of all things Viking. You’ll see reenactments (and even some battles!) and learn all about York’s Viking history.

March – In March, York hosts Restaurant Week, where you can dine at pricey restaurants at steeply discounted prices.

July – In July, York hosts the Great Yorkshire Fringe, which is ten days of theater, song, and dance productions. Similar to the famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival, this festival is fun and enjoyable for all.

August – On a weekend in August, stop by the York Walls Festival to discover York’s heritage related to the City Walls.

For a complete list of festivals in York, click here . There’s something fun happening almost every month!

Where to stay in York:

The Golden Fleece -Not only does this pub serve delicious food, but you can also stay the night. It’s also located in the city center, which is quite convenient. You’ll literally have The Shambles at your doorstep.

The Lawrence Luxury Aparthotel – At the Lawrence, you can have your own little apartment situated in the heart of York. If you like to cook, you’re in luck – these apartments come with fully equipped kitchens.

Moxy York – This is a mid-range modern hotel with a quirky feel. All rooms and common areas are accented with bright purple, giving it a funky vibe. While the Moxy isn’t directly in the city center, it’s only a 5-10 minute walk to the center of town.

Safestay York – Located in a 16th-century Georgian townhouse, this hostel has an elegant and funky vibe. They offer mixed bed dorms, female-only dorms, or private rooms. It’s located right next to the train station.

YHA York – YHA York is a budget hostel that offers female-only, male-only, and private group rooms. This hostel is about a 25-minute walk to the center but is located on the River Ouse, making for a pretty setting. I’d suggest walking along the river into town!

And there you have it – all my suggestions for spending one day in York! As you now know, it’s a fantastic city with tons to do. I’m already trying to plan my next visit – I’m thinking December as I’m a sucker for Christmas markets.

Have you ever been to York? What did you think?

Enjoyed this post? Subscribe here!

Subscribe here to receive new Ashley Abroad posts straight to your inbox.

Thanks for subscribing! Now check your email to confirm your subscription.

There was an error submitting your subscription. Please try again.

About Kelsey Frey

Kelsey is a blogger and freelance writer originally from California, but currently navigating her newfound digital nomad life in Europe. If you're curious about an honest account of life without a permanent address, you can follow her on Instagram @sightsbetterseen or pop over to her blog at Sights Better Seen for more about her (mis)adventures.

2 thoughts on “York in a Day: The Perfect One-Day Itinerary for York, England”

Love the details and breakdown. Never been to York but you really have me wanting to take a trip. Would you recommend this for a family trip? Bars etc aside. Seems like a great place for everyone.

I think it would be great for a family trip!

Comments are closed.

The Best 1 Day York Itinerary: Things To Do (2024)

In this travel guide, we’ll show you how to plan the best 1 day York itinerary including all the best things to do in York! From medieval city walls to gothic cathedrals and historic streets , York is a city worth visiting. During this York one day itinerary we’ve included recommendations of where to stay and how to plan your day.

York is a beautiful walled city located in Northeast England in North Yorkshire. It’s known for its huge Gothic cathedral, York Minster and its old cobbled streets and medieval buildings.

It’s a lovely place to spend one day in York or on a weekend – but in this York itinerary, we’ll show you how to visit the top sites in just one day.

A few interesting facts to learn about York before you visit is that it’s quite a small city, packed with lots of museums and things to do. It’s known as a very haunted city with one of the most haunted pubs in England and it’s easy to reach by public transport in the UK.

This post may contain affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you make a purchase using these links, at no additional cost to you .

Table of Contents (Skip to a section!)

What to do in York (1 Day York Itinerary)

• Admire the architecture – the York Minster is a main highlight of impressive architecture in York!
• Explore the city centre – the best thing to do in York is to get lost in the streets inside the walled city!
• Visit the museums – the best way to discover more of a city is by wandering around their museums.
• Learn the history – We’ve included some history about some of the landmarks in this York itinerary.

Where to stay in York

The best area to stay in York is near the York City Centre which includes Bootham, Micklegate and South Bank .

Astor York $-$$ – in a beautiful Grade II Listed Building, this hostel has both private and dorm rooms and a full kitchen to cook! – Book Astor York here on Hostelworld !

Vikings Accommodation $$ – Feel like home in York staying in a Victorian guest house close to the city centre –  Find on Booking.com here !

St. Raphael Guest House $$ – Stay in a 1990 mock-Tudor building with great amenities and minutes from the city centre! – Find on Booking.com here !

The Best 1 Day York Itinerary: Things To Do in York (2024)

Now we’ll jump into our 1 day York itinerary! There’s some alternative suggestions at the end of this itinerary if you have more than 1 day in York, there are plenty of museums to keep anyone entertained for a few days!

As York is a small city, the things to do in York are very close together and it’s unlikely you’ll need transport. There’s a lot of walking involved but also at a leisurely pace! Let’s explore what to do in York!

Walk along the York City Walls

When arriving from the train station or the south-west side of York you’ll be greeted with a long stretch of medieval wall. These historic walls go all around the city centre and are connected by four ‘Bars’ in each corner. You can walk along them high above the city.

The fact that these walls still exist is amazing and makes York one of the most impressive walled cities in England and all of Europe!

Some cities such as London were removing their old medieval walls (as they were no longer needed), but York has kept most of its city walls which adds such character to the small city!

You can find the Bars here: Bootham Bar, Micklegate Bar, Monk Bar and Walmgate Bar . They’re quite easy to find when exploring the city during your one day in York.

Quick history: The original walls in York were built around 71 AD and were invaded by the Vikings who turned them into a wooden fence. This was then replaced in the 13th century with stone, which is still here and preserved today!

Browse around Shambles Market

As you enter the city, you’ll discover beautiful older buildings mixed with modern-day shops. Even Krispy Kreme has a York aesthetic! Make your way to Market Street in the centre of the walled city to find Shambles Market.

Shambles Market is open all week from 8 am-4 pm and has an array of market stalls selling artisanal food, vintage items, clothes and more. There’s a small seating area for those buying food and it’s also right next to one of the best things to do in York.

If you’re enjoying the history of York so far, take a day trip to Cambridge !

Wander through the Shambles

Right around the corner from Shambles Market is the famous historic street with impressive medieval buildings . It’s one of the most-preserved medieval shopping streets in Europe and you can definitely tell!

It’s our favourite spot in this 1 day York itinerary, so naturally, we revisited the Shambles a few times during the day.

Shambles actually means a meat market and the narrow street was built to create shade for the butcher shops. Although the shops have changed since the medieval days, a few of them have still kept some characteristics like shelves where meat would have been served back in the day.

We noticed a huge line for a little shop named the York Ghost Merchants . The people at the front had queued for 2 hours to enter on a busy Saturday in July – which is wild! Sadly we didn’t enter because of the long wait but get there early if you want to visit The York Ghost Merchants.

Fun Fact – It’s said that Diagon Alley in Harry Potter may have been inspired by the Shambles! Take a Harry Potter Guided Walking Tour in York! And check out our 4 Day London Itinerary to find more Harry Potter sights!

Find the Haunted Pub

At the end of the beautiful Medieval street, you’ll come across a traditional English pub painted white and black like Tudor buildings.

This building is one of the most haunted hotels in the UK and also the most haunted pub in York! It’s even possible to book a room here where some of the ghosts have been apparently sighted.

It’s said that there are 15 ghosts that still roam the hotel with the most famous being Lady Alice Peckett, the wife of the owner of the hotel, John Peckett! When stepping into the building, you can definitely feel an olden presence, even more so than other English pubs in York.

During your York one day itinerary, have a look inside the building or maybe have lunch there!

Admire the York Minster

Another one of the best things to do in York is to see the famous York Minster – a huge Gothic cathedral in the heart of the city .

The York Minster is also named the Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York. The impressive building is the largest cathedral to be completed during the Gothic period in 1472 and as it’s a cathedral it holds the seat of a bishop.

When entering the Minster, you’ll be blown away by the size of the interior. Even from the outside, it’s huge! The York Minster has beautiful stained glass windows and a high roof that creates amazing acoustics.

The price to enter York Minster is currently £16 and it’s also included in the York Pass. It’s free to residents of York!

Take a break in the Museum Gardens

Wander back through the beautiful streets of York until you reach the Museum Gardens which are a free spot for everyone to enjoy. When we visited on a Saturday there was a medieval circus show going on for kids and a few food trucks!

One of the highlights of the gardens is the crumbled ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey. These walls were built in the 1260s and are some of the oldest remaining abbey walls in England!

St. Mary’s Abbey was also used as a palace for King Henry VIII when visiting York.

Explore the Yorkshire Museum

Whilst exploring the Museum Gardens, it’s hard to miss the large museum on the grounds. You can find Medieval jewels, Roman artefacts and lots of other archaeological finds! There’s also a small gift shop at the entrance.

The Yorkshire Museum suggests spending around 1-2 hours to see all the exhibits. For a York one day itinerary, we suggest just walking around the gardens and admiring the building.

Indulge in an Afternoon Tea

Whether you’re British or not, a visit to one of the best places in the UK will feel extra special with Afternoon Tea. You can buy a cup of tea from pretty much anywhere in York and some places will specify if they’re using Yorkshire Tea (a British favourite). Here’s a few places you can visit for an Afternoon Tea.

Betty’s Café Tea Rooms – One of the most famous places in York to get Afternoon Tea. You’ll see long lines to get inside and they’ve been running since 1936! – Find out more here !

Goji Cafe Vegetarian Cafe & Deli – Nestled in the streets of York is this wonderful hidden gem! We ate here for lunch and really wanted to try the Vegan Afternoon Tea , the cakes looked incredible! – Find out more here !

The Grand York Afternoon Tea – In a beautifully large hotel, an afternoon Tea will make you feel fancy! – Find out more here !

Find Clifford’s Tower

On the southeast side of York, you’ll find Clifford’s Tower standing high and mighty on a grass mound ( here’s the location ).

Clifford’s Tower is a 13th-century castle and there’s a small viewing deck at the top that offers 360 views of York! The price is £10 to enter if you book online , which is a little pricey, but worth doing if you have the York Pass.

The tower has some incredibly dark history as it was a hiding place for a Jewish Community who ended up committing suicide rather than being killed by a mob in York. At the time the tower was built with wood which was burnt down during the violence and was remade with stone.

Even if you don’t visit the inside, it’s really cool to see it from the outside! We also found the ‘York Sign’ here made out of grass, although it may not stick around year-round.

York Castle Museum

Right opposite Clifford Tower is the York Castle Museum. A visit inside costs around £15 and although we didn’t have time for it during our 1 day York itinerary, we would have entered as there’s some cool things to see.

The main highlight is a beautiful cobbled street with Victorian houses set up as if it was the Victorian era. There are a few interactive elements throughout the museum including antique machines (that require £1 to play)!

The York Castle Museum is definitely worth a few hours, so if it’s something you want to visit during your one day in York, make sure you don’t have to rush!

Go on a City Cruise or Walk along the River Ouse

When walking over the bridge from the train station to York City Centre, you’ll see boat cruises lined up ready to roam along the river. It’s a great way to finish up your one day in York and relax for a while! – Book your River Ouse City Cruise here !

There’s also an evening cruise if you’re spending the night in York – Find out more here . One activity we really wanted to do during our 1 day York itinerary was hire a self-steering boat and explore the river by ourselves! The weather wasn’t really in our favour so we decided to skip it, but it looks so fun!

If you’re running out of time then a simple walk from Cliffords Tower to the train station via the river will also be relaxing. The riverwalk can go quite far, so just pick a small section of it near the city centre.

Visit the National Railway Museum, York

Our day in York ended at 5 pm when we had to catch our train home back to London. An interesting way to end our one day in York was a quick visit to the National Railway Museum . It closes at 5 pm every day and is right next to the main train station in York.

The National Railway Museum is free to enter (one of the only free museums in York) and a great place to visit if you love trains and history!

The museum has a large showcase of steam trains, diesel trains, and electric engines & carriages. There’s even a carriage over 170 years old!

More things to do in York

Even though we’ve listed many of the best things to do in York in our itinerary, there are still a few spots that might interest you if you have extra time or want to switch things around. Here’s more of what to do in York:

• Harry Potter Guided Walking Tour – Discover filming locations and any spots of inspiration in York by Book your tickets here !
• York Chocolate Story – Make your own chocolate during a tour – Book a slot on GetYourGuide here !
• The York Dungeon – Book your tickets in advance here for a cheaper price !
• Witches and History Old Town Walking Tour in York – Find out more details here !
• York Ghost Bus Tour (Comedy Horror Show) – Perfect for the Autumn season – Find tickets here !
• JORVIK Viking Centre – A history museum and experience more suited for families with children!

Best Places to Eat in York

York has a huge variety of great places to eat: from pubs to fine dining, cosy cafes to pastry shops and everyone’s favourite chain restaurants. You won’t be hungry on your York one day itinerary.

Best Restaurants in York

• The Orchid Vegan Restaurant $$ – an incredible all-vegan Chinese restaurant ( location )
• Goji Cafe Vegetarian Cafe & Deli $ – Fresh healthy food & cakes! ( website ) ( location )
• Döner Summer $-$$ – A fully vegan junk food spot! ( website ) ( location )
• Herbivorous Vegan $-$$ – Located in a Spark food market, also vegan junk food ( location )
• Zaap Thai Street Food York $-$$ – A funky little Thai restaurant! ( location )

Best Places to Grab a Snack in York

• The Cornish Bakery $ – Grab a pasty instead of a Greggs sausage roll! ( location )
• Doe Bakehouse $ – Huge doughnuts with vegan options! ( location )
• Double Dutch Pancake House $-$$ – The best brunch treat! ( location )

When it comes to chain restaurants we also recommend Yo! Sushi for some quick sushi on the go, Wagamama or Zizzi!

How to get to York

York in Northeast England and located in the county of North Yorkshire! There are great transport links into the city or as always you can always drive there.

• By train: Trains to York bring you to York train station which is conveniently right next to the city centre.
• By bus: Check out Megabus, National Express and FlixBus for journeys around the UK. They’re not as fast as trains but are sometimes a lot cheaper!
• By vehicle: It’s likely you’ll have to pay for parking unless you park somewhere residential.
• By flight: York doesn’t have its own airport but Leeds-Bradford International Airport is the closest one to get to. You may find cheaper flights into London or Manchester and get a train to York.

How to get from London to York

The best way to get from London to York is by train ! There are multiple direct trains that only take 2 hours and drop you off right minutes away from York city centre.

How to get better prices for trains in the UK? Book your train tickets in advance ! Advance singles save so much money compared to a normal off-peak return. Also if you’re from the UK, check if a Railcard is worth it and you’ll save 1/3 of your fare! Check for railcards here !

How to get around York

York is a lovely small city, so the best way to get around is by walking ! There’s also a City Sightseeing York Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour which is another great way to get around York if you’re – Find more details here !

Is the York Pass worth it?

If you’re spending 2 days in York and want to do a lot of the activities York has to offer, then a York Pass may save you money! It’s really easy to work out if it’s worth buying – but double-check the prices online as everything is increasing these days!

Here’s a few of the activities that are included in the York Pass (there are a lot more, but these are some of the ones mentioned in this York one-day itinerary)

• York Minster ( £16)
• Yorkshire Museum (£9.50)
• City Cruises (£12.50)
• Cliffords Tower (£10)
• The Treasurers House (£9.50)
• York Cocoa Works (£19)
• The York Dungeon (£21) – ( or book on GetYourGuide here )!
• Jorvik Viking Centre (£15)
• York Castle Museum (£15)

All of this comes to around £128.00 and to be honest it’s going to be really hard to complete all these activities in 1 day and maybe 2 days. Just add up some of the activities you want to do and see if it’s worth getting the pass for your York itinerary!

Currently, the 1 Day York Pass is £59.00 for an adult and a 2 day York Pass is £75.00 – Find out more about the York Pass here and if you have a discount code for GetYourGuide, you may be able to get cheaper tickets here – York City Pass with GetYourGuide !

What to pack for a 1 day York itinerary

Before travelling to York, think about the season and double-check the weather before your visit. We visited York in July and it still rained ! Here’s a few travel essentials that we bring on our trips, especially in the UK!

• A reusable water bottle – a must when travelling anywhere!
• Wireless earbuds – the best for long journeys in the UK.
• Comfortable day backpack – this one has so many compartments for organising!
• Portable power bank – charge your phone on the go.
• A compact umbrella – another must when visiting the UK.
• A raincoat – for the unpredictable UK weather.
• Packing cubes – if you’re staying more than one day in York, these are so helpful.
• A padlock – for any lockers.

Planning a 1 Day York Itinerary

Here are some helpful links to plan your York one day itinerary:

• Check for any  public holidays  on your date of visit ( Find out when the public holidays are )!
• If you’re taking the train, double-check for train strikes!
• Book your flights –  check Skyscanner prices here to the UK (London, Leeds or Manchester Airport)
• Book your train tickets in advance on Trainline !
• Get Travel Insurance –  Find out more here !
• Book your accommodation on  Hostelworld here  or on  Booking.com here !
• Where to stay in York: St. Raphael Guest House ££ – Find on Booking.com here !

Best Time to Visit York

York is an all-year-round destination with different festivals for every season, however, the weather is unpredictable in the UK. Ultimately, the best time to visit York is between April and October .

In the summer months, the weather is usually warm and sunny with sprinkles of rain. However July and August are the busiest months of the year which makes accommodation prices go up! We visited in early July and it rained on and off during our York itinerary but it was still great!

Also check for bank holiday weekends , as these days can get very busy with most of the country off of work – find out when they are here !

More guides in the  United Kingdom :

• 4 Days in London Itinerary & things to know before visiting London
• 3 Day Edinburgh Itinerary & 1 Day Scottish Highlands Road Trip
• Bristol Day Trip from London & Free things to do in Bristol
• 1 Day Cambridge Itinerary
• How to Climb Snowdon, Wales
• Brighton Itinerary: Best Things To Do

Don’t forget about Travel Insurance! –  SafetyWing  Nomad Insurance

SafetyWing  is a flexible monthly-rolling travel insurance to help you stay safe on your trip anywhere in the world!

That’s the end of our  The Best 1 Day York Itinerary: Things To Do (2024) ! Have a lovely time exploring York and if you need any more help planning – send us a message on Instagram (@thesunrisedreamers) or leave a comment below!

LIKE THIS POST? PIN IT FOR LATER & SHARE IT WITH OTHERS!

Amy & Dan are the founders of The Sunrise Dreamers. They are travellers from the UK who have been on the road since 2017 whilst living in places like England, Canada, Thailand and the Canary Islands. They share their knowledge of travelling the world with detailed travel guides and tips. They're experts in vegan travel and show their audience how to travel on a budget.

Similar Posts

30+ Best Vegan Bakeries in London & Desserts (2024)

If you’re on the hunt for the best vegan bakeries in London, you’re in for a treat (quite literally). From…

How to visit Zakopane from Krakow, Incredible Day Trip

Zakopane is one of the best day trips from Krakow and an absolute must when visiting southern Poland! On our…

The Best Mostar Itinerary: 2 Days in Mostar (2024)

If you’re planning a 2 day Mostar itinerary, you’re in the right place! This is our in-depth travel guide on…

3 Day Athens Itinerary: The Best Things To Do (2024)

Athens is the beautiful ancient capital of Greece filled with rich history, funky street art, amazing food and the best…

Brighton Itinerary: 9 Great Things To Do in Brighton (2024)

Brighton is a fun and quirky city on the South Coast of the UK! It’s one of our favourite places…

Incredible Vegan Food at Borough Market, London (2024)

Borough Market is London’s most popular food market, with more than 20 million visits a year! Luckily for us, vegan…

York is a beautiful place. I’m hoping to visit later in the year 🙂

It is! I hope you have a lovely time in York! 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

A day trip to York (2023): a one day itinerary in the historic city

If a day trip to York, England is all you can manage then you’ll be pleased to know that it’s still well worth visiting even if you have limited time here.  

As part of a larger UK trip or just a day out from your regular routine, York really captures the hearts and minds of all who visit.  Why?  Well, I guess many reasons, but for me it was the wealth of history that the city has that drew me to visit.  There’s also a faint smell of chocolate – that’s quite tempting too!  More about that later!

This article probably contains affiliate links. This means that if you buy or book after clicking, I may get a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

I love hearing about people who go on a York day trip after reading this post – let me know in the comments what you thought of it and if you recommend any new attractions!  

Our Top Pick

York River Cruise

A cruise on the River Ouse is a must on a day trip to York. It gets you away from the crowds and you can enjoy a really different view of the city!

Personal recommendation: Save money with the York Pass.

We used the York Pass to gain entry to all the attractions we mentioned on this page (plus it includes a lot more) and it really helps to save money. If you only have a day and are planning to make the most of it by visiting everything I highly recommend it!

For 2023 the cost is £55 for adults and £32 for children.

Alternatively you can book the attractions separate :

• York Chocolate Story (my favourite!)
• York Dungeon
• Ouse River Cruise
• Hop on Hop off bus

A note from the writer: Hey! I’m Kirsty and I’m a UK travel expert. Although I live here I still travel around England as a tourist every year – there’s so much to see! Shout (or comment below) if you have any questions about your trip and I’ll get back to you ASAP.

York doesn’t feel like a city.  It’s not sprawling and it’s not hard to get around.  In fact, get there early enough and you’ll enjoy a sense of peace and serenity that I never associate with cities.  The compact feeling is amplified by the fact that the city is surrounded by medieval walls and most things a day tripper will be interested in is within them.

There’s so much history in York that it’s both hard to get away from it yet it’s also hard to understand what went on here – I knew that it was a city full of historic sites, but I’ll be honest, I felt a bit overwhelmed by what was around.  Where do you even start?  Do you go and enjoy each time period, or try and cram them all in?  If you’re limited by your time in the city then you’ll likely want to do the latter!

Need a hotel on your trip? For an extra special weekend away definitely consider booking The Grand for a 5 star (but still quite reasonable) experience Or check out these unusual places to stay in Yorkshire Coming from London? Check out the best ways to get from London to York

What to do on a day trip to York

So, my itinerary for you here takes into account a bit about each part of history that the city of York is famous for, so if history is your thing you’ll love it, but really when we did it it was just enjoyable itself.  James isn’t quite as into history as I am and he had a really fun time so I hope you do too.  It, of course, doesn’t cover everything history wise, and certainly not all there is to do in York but it’s a pretty good introduction.

First things first is that you should consider getting yourself a York Pass for the day.  It’s especially good if you’re visiting the area for a few days as you can also get one that covers the city centre attractions and also some surrounding sights too.  If you really only have a day in York then you can still get your money’s worth with the one day city pass that they do.

Be aware it works on a calendar day and not 24 hours so don’t start using it one day and thinking you can finish up seeing sights the next morning unless you go for the two-day option.  You can get the pass here or I’ve linked to each attraction individually if you want to pick and choose.

About the York City Pass – you get a couple of options: The City Pass is available in a single 1 day card or you can also get a 2 day card. You can buy it online in advance here and pick it up at the Visit York Information Centre (just down from York Minster – 1 Museum Street, YO1 7DT) or just get it on the day from there. 

For early birds:

My top tip for you if you can manage it is to get into York early and just wander around the streets, or maybe do the city wall walk while the city is just waking up and before lots more tourists spill on to the streets.  This is what we did and we found the Shambles, the famous medieval street in York, deserted!  No, we couldn’t look round the shops, but we did lots of window shopping and returned later for another look around.

Go to the York Visitor centre to get the York pass

The tourist information office opens at 9 am, so head there straight away to get your pass and you’ll be ready for the day ahead.  They’re really friendly there too so if you have any questions about your day they’ll be able to point you to where you need to go.  You do get a small booklet with a map in with your passes to help you navigate the city.

*feel free to do things in your own order – this is pretty much how we spent our day, but any order is fine.  Some attractions can get busy in the summer months e.g Jorvik, so perhaps aim to get that done early if you’re worried about queues*

Start the day at York Minster

York Minster completely dominates the city landscape so you’ll definitely want to take a peek inside.  Going early means that it’s very peaceful and not busy at all.  You can look around in your own time and really take in the beauty of the building.

I personally was in awe of the Minster and couldn’t believe that it was built 800 years ago – just how did they do it?  Ok, it did take them 250 years to complete it fully, but the architecture and skill were immense.  There’s actually history that goes back even further on the site too and you can learn about that in the Undercroft museum which goes under the Minster (opens normally around 10 am).

You can also get a guided tour of the Minster (included in the York Pass) and there’s a chance to go up the tower too for an additional admission fee.  Apparently you get excellent views over the city but we couldn’t partake as James forgot to bring his asthma inhaler!  One for another time.

Monk Bar, one of the old gates to the city is quite close to the Minster if you want to head on over there while in the vicinity.  You can learn about one of the old kings here as well if you want to go inside the gate to the Richard III experience.

If you have time and it’s a nice day you might like to head close by to the York Museum Gardens which house St Mary’s Abbey – a medieval ruin in the city! Yorkshire has so many abbeys but you can see one right here in the centre of York.

Head over to the York Chocolate story

Update for 2023 – this attraction is no longer covered by the York Pass. If you want an alternative that is included then the York Cocoa Works could be good for you!

It’s about a 5-minute walk to the next attraction from the Minster and if I’m honest, this was one of my favourite parts of the day and it was only partly because we got to taste chocolate!

York’s Chocolate Story is an attraction that combines the history of some of the most famous names in chocolate, who came from York, with information on how chocolate is made and of course, some chocolate tasting too.  The lovely smell of chocolate hits you as soon as you walk through the doors here and it stays as you head on through the tour.  There are some lovely tastings to be had, and some not so nice ones too – there’s a reason chocolate has sugar in it!

The history of the companies of Rowntree’s and Terry’s was really interesting and it was such a big employer of the city in the late 19th and early 20th century.  The tour ends with a quick making of a chocolate lolly that kids will love (ok, I did too) and a demonstration of how handmade chocolates are made.

If you want more chocolate there’s cafe too and if you want more than that there a lot of independent chocolatiers all round York too.  There’s even a chocolate trail that I may have to do myself one day too!

Visit the Roman Bath house

Just around the corner, there’s time to fit in another little attraction before lunch.  This is such a quirky little place and I really loved the story of how the ruins of this place were found.

Roman York actually lays about 4 feet under the ground you currently walk on in York so there are actually pretty few Roman remains to be seen in the city, even though we know that the Romans were here.  The fort in this area was called Eboracum.

The bathhouse remains were found in 1929 when the building, which was (and still is) a pub, had a big fire.  That fire gave them the chance to dig and get a bigger cellar, but they found a little more than they bargained for!  What they found was the corner of the fort and the remains of the ancient bath house the legionnaires would have used.

It’s only a small attraction and doesn’t take too long to get around, but the man on the desk was really friendly and knowledgeable if you want to know more about what’s around.  Plenty of dressing up opportunities for the kids too!

Lunch & shopping

(if you like your lunch a bit later you might like to add in Jorvik beforehand – see how you’re doing for time.  This is what we did.)

Time for some food and also take some time to wander around the shops.  The Shambles is one not to miss, even though it’s super touristy and will be very busy by now.  Another street that is extremely pretty is Stonegate (above) so add that one on your list.  One of the buildings there dates back to the 1400s which is quite mind-blowing!

The Shambles actually dates back to medieval times, although the shop fronts aren’t from that era.  Narrow streets like this were actually designed like that to keep the sunlight out because it would have been used by butchers selling meat from the windows.  No sunlight meant the meat was less likely to go off!

It’s thought that the Shambles is actually one of the inspirations for Diagon Alley in Harry Potter (alongside Edinburgh ) and there’s plenty of Harry Potter inspired shops there nowadays too.  If you have some HP fans you can even take a dedicated tour !

Clifford’s Tower

Clifford’s tower is currently closed until Summer 2021 – check here to see if it’s open before visiting.

In the afternoon take the 8-10 minute walk to the south of the city walls to Clifford’s Tower which is the only remaining piece of York Castle from medieval times to still be standing.  You can get amazing views of the city from the top but really there’s not a lot to do in the tower and you can be done in a short time.  Max 30 mins I’d say.

There are a couple of museums around here too if you like those – the York Castle Museum and York Army Museum are right next to Clifford’s Tower.

Clifford’s Tower is an English Heritage site and is free if you have membership – check details here .

Is Medieval England one of your interests? See our guide to visiting Sherwood Forest and find where Robin Hood was supposed to have hid out!

Go back in time to see the Vikings at Jorvik

York is very proid of their viking heritage and I’d heards loads of good things about Jorvik but wasn’t exactly sure what happens when you get there.

There was a little bit of a queue to get in, but as we were out of season it didn’t take long to get to the front.  I’d be aware of queues if you’re there in high season.  Once you’re in you’re greeted with a glass floor where you can see the archaeological remains from the Viking settlement that have been found.  You can watch some videos about the stories of the excavations too.

Once you’ve had your fill of that you can go on the ‘ride’ which takes you through the Viking village reconstruction.  I say ride because you sit in a chair that is moved around, a bit like an extra slow rollercoaster!  There are speakers that will guide you and let you know what you’re seeing as you go round and they can be in lots of different languages too.  I really loved seeing the reconstruction and I think the models were really well done – some of them I really thought were real people!  It’s fully interactive with your senses as well with lots to see, hear and smell!

After the journey through Jorvik, you’re led to a museum area where there are all sorts of collections of Viking artefacts found on site, skeletons of some of the people you saw in the village and some people in costume demonstrating things too and on hand to ask about.

After Jorvik we took a little breather and headed for a little stroll to the riverside before our last attraction of the day:

Finally, finish on a fun note by visiting the York Dungeon!

Personally, I wasn’t too bothered about doing the York Dungeon , but James really did want to do it.  I’ve seen the chain of attractions in lots of cities – Edinburgh has one as does London and actually there’s a few worldwide now too, but I’ve never actually been there.  I was a little worried I wouldn’t like it but actually, it was a heap of fun and I’d definitely recommend it.

What you need to bear in mind is that it’s an interactive attraction and they may well pick on you to be part of it and be ok with that – I’m not so good with this kind of thing, but I was lucky and didn’t get picked on!  James did though!

You’ll get led round different rooms, each with a different time period and you’ll hear stories.  The actors are really brilliant and we laughed out loud so many times.  I liked that they kept their stories to things that York is famous for, so Viking, medieval times, Guy Fawkes makes an appearance as does the story of Dick Turpin.

We enjoyed it so much we’ll definitely consider visiting next time we see one!

An alternative idea… for your day in York might be a self guided city sightseeing treasure hunt like this one .  Really good idea if you struggle keeping kids engaged on a day out or just if you enjoy a challenge!

Was the York Pass worth it for a day?

When planning our day in York I knew that I wanted to take in as many of the historic attractions as possible and straight away I started wondering if a York Pass would be worth it.

Interested in the York Pass? We wrote a full review of it and how it works here .

If you do the places in this itinerary you’ll find that you save money on buying the admission for each attraction individually.  For us, it was definitely worth it as there was no wondering whether each place would be worth the price – we could go in, spend as little or as long as we wanted there and not worry.  I actually like having the freedom to do that and there are so many attractions in York if you found something lacking you could definitely find something else to fill its space.

Get your York Pass in advance here

A general note if you’re visiting York in winter.  Many of the attractions in York run a reduced set of hours in the low season.   We visited in January and so we couldn’t use the Sightseeing bus as it didn’t run and the city cruise schedule was limited too.  Both of these are included in the York pass but we couldn’t take advantage.   Most of the attractions don’t open until 10 am and close between 3 pm and 4 pm too so bear that in mind when deciding your timings.  On the plus side, queues weren’t long at all!

Evening in York

If you still have the evening to enjoy in York there are quite a few ghost tours that we saw advertised around the city (or you could arrange a private evening walking tour ) and of course there’s plenty of pubs, both historic and not, to enjoy a meal and an evening’s entertainment in.  I’m afraid we didn’t have time for any of them this time.

York City Cruises also does evening trips which are worth thinking about if you happen upon some lovely warm evenings.

Want to explore around York? There’s a lot to do around York from seaside towns to train rides. Here are some must do trips around the area: Haworth & Yorkshire Dales Heartbeat TV Locations Tour Steam Train, Whitby & North Yorkshire Moors You can also check out my guide to 21 of the best day trips from York .

Where to stay in York

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay overnight in York you’re in for a treat as there are loads of independent and quirky hotels in the area.  The Grand Hotel is a 5-star Edwardian era hotel if you’re looking for something special.  

Another option might be The Guy Fawkes Inn which is reportedly the birthplace of the man himself – it’s a little smaller and right next to York Minster.

Check out this map for much more options!

How to get to York

York is really easy to get to.  It’s situated in the North of England and if you’re coming by car you’ll find it’s just 20 mins from the M1 motorway.

There are parking options in the city but I recommend the park and ride option which is what we did.  It means you don’t need to navigate around the city at all – parking is free and you just need to pay for the bus journey in and out which was £3.50 return per adult (correct Dec 2022).  Check out the park and ride sites here .

The train is also really easy and we had planned to do this until our local connection was cancelled.  You can get to York in 2 hours from London and about 2.5 hours from Edinburgh so if you’re arriving in the country and basing yourself in any of those places you can totally add York to your vacation easily!  Check out Trainline for times and costs for getting there.

Private tours to York: If you’re wanting the convenience of a private tour that takes in some of Northern England and the City of York too then take a look at the following with many departure points across the UK: London : 5 day Heart of England, North Wales and Yorkshire tour Edinburgh : Best of Northern England – 5 day tour from Edinburgh Manchester : 3-day Yorkshire Dales and Peak District Tour

Disclaimer: Thanks to VisitYork for providing us with a YorkPass each for the day so we could review whether it would be worth it for a day trip.  

What next? Look for hotels in York – check booking.com Want a holiday cottage or apartment? – check VRBO.com Check out tours in York – Get Your Guide or Viator

Planning a Britain vacation? Join our FREE trip planning community!

Come and join our FREE Facebook group where you can get help with planning your Britain vacation of a lifetime!

You might also like :

• My favourite children’s books about London
• 19 fun things to do near Stonehenge, England
• Best WW2 sites in London to visit

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 England Travel FAQ 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

Do I need insurance for traveling to England?

YES! I always recommend people take travel insurance when exploring the world!

Check Travel Insurance Master for quote comparisons from different providers.

Do I need a car for visiting England?

YES – If you’re wanting to explore England fully then a car is worthwhile. It will get you to all the small villages, countryside sights and all on your own timetable

I recommend DiscoverCars to compare car rental prices in England

How to book accommodation in England?

For hotels I recommend Booking.com

For apartments and cottages check out VRBO

Will my phone work in England?

Perhaps – it depends if you have roaming enabled and beware this can be an expensive way to use your phone.

If you need a SIM for use in the UK I recommend GiffGaff which you can get and set up before traveling.

What’s the best guidebook for England?

I really like the Lonely Planet Guidebooks

Where to get flights for England

Skyscanner is my first port of call for finding cheap flights to England.

Do I need a visa for England?

Many countries don’t need a visa for visiting England as tourists (USA, Canada, Aus, NZ and Europe) – it’s always best to check first though .

Pin for later!

Kirsty Bartholomew

6 thoughts on “A day trip to York (2023): a one day itinerary in the historic city”

What a great article – I have lived in York for 2 years and I still haven’t managed to go to some of these attractions. I also think a walk along the city walls is pretty special – you don’t see something like that everyday.

Fab post! I’m heading up to York this year, so very handy!

Fabulous and informative. I am planning on doing a one day tour of York from London (part of a bigger trip to Scotland) and this article was very helpful. Keep it coming!

Thanks so much – really glad you found it helpful! Enjoy your upcoming trip!

VERY HELPFUL ,GREATLY APPRECIATED POST!!HEADING TO YORK THIS WEEKEND..

hope you had fun!

Leave a comment Cancel reply

• Day trips from London >

York Day Trip Itinerary

Plan a perfect day trip itinerary to York, a city of history, culture and heritage and boasts some of the prettiest streets in England. Roman ruins, towering cathedrals, and narrow shopping streets are combined with contemporary shopping and dining to give this city its vibrant and energetic feel. A day trip to York is normally enough to see its highlights, and this is a popular destination for travelers planning an itinerary from London to Edinburgh on the train, and wish to break up the journey along the way. York is also a great starting point for day trip tours of the surrounding area.

Tourist England’s suggested itinerary for a one-day experience in York:

Update 2021:  We’ve made a list of attractions  open in York now .

1 day itinerary:

The View from York Minster

Begin the day at York Minster , which is conveniently located just a 10-minute short walk from the train station. York Minster is the largest medieval Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe and attracts thousands of visitors each year. The cathedral towers over the city and is a real architectural achievement. Enter inside the Minster (entrance fee £10 per adult) where you’ll find an impressive series of stained glass windows, breathtaking calvings, naves and pillars. For an additional £5, (recommended) you can climb the steep steps to the top of York Minster tower, with breathtaking views over the City. There’s also a series of fascinating underground displays and exhibitions, detailing the history and conservation work that took place over the past decades.

Head out of York Minster and into the group of narrow streets known as The Shambles . Local residents are very proud of these narrow windy streets which are filled with lots of interesting local shops, cafes and restaurants and is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat or pick up a souvenir. Shambles Market is open daily, with an interesting selection of stalls and produce.  For lunch, try Betty’s Tea Room which is a kind of institution in York, serving up classic British dishes since the 1930’s! (Although expect to wait in long queues outside on weekends – this place gets booked up!). For a delicious bite to eat, head to Shambles Kitchen  which serves up huge mouth-watering sandwiches.

Micklegate City Walls, York

There are several ways to plan an afternoon itinerary in York. Head to the riverfront to see the pretty River Ouse, and perhaps go for a River Cruise, with 1-hour boat trips operated by YorkBoat , accompanied by a live guided commentary. The cruise departs and returns to the same spot by Lendal Bridge and from here, one of the most popular things to do is to walk a section of the Roman City Walls – our favourite section is from Lendal Bridge all the way past Mickelgate Bar and continuing to Skeldergate Bridge. A short walk from Skeldergate lies several world-class museums. York Castle Museum  looks at the changing English way of life from Jacobean times to present modern-day Britain. Next to it lies Clifford’s Tower , the oldest remaining part of York Castle with great views over the City. If you’re traveling with kids, you might consider heading to the JORVIK Viking Centre , which has fun interactive displays showing how the Vikings lived in York over 1,000 years ago.

There are lots of fabulous places to eat and drink in York. For dinner, try Stonegate Yard which is a tasty bistro and brasserie situated in the city centre with a relaxed, chilled-out feel. Alternatively, head over to Walmgate which is the restaurant district of York. Evenings tend to come alive in York, with plenty of pubs offering live music and shows.

York also claims to be Europe’s most haunted city, and if you’re looking for something a bit different, check out the 75 minute Ghost Bus Tour , which departs daily at 19:30.

York Hop on Hop off Bus:

Our 24-hour York hop on hop off bus is the perfect way to get around the city. Hop on and off at 20 stops conveniently located across York, and learn more about the city from a live guide on board the bus. Upgrade your experience to include a cruise along the River Ouse.

two-day itinerary

If you have more than 24 hours to spend in York, there are plenty more things to do , and it’s easy to mix and match the above day trip itinerary and a few more attractions within the city centre. This includes the York Dungeon , which takes you back to the darkest days in the city’s history, the 2,00-year-old Roman Baths, and the grand residence of the Mayor at Mansion House . There are also a number of day tours that take place in and around York. Top attractions beyond York include Castle Howard , the North Yorkshire Moors Railway and the beautiful countryside of the North York Moors.

However you plan to spend your time in York, we’re sure it will be an unforgettable experience!

more things to do

What's Open in York Now?

Day Tours from York

How to get from London to York

Things to do in York

17 Amazing Yorkshire Day Trips (+ Map & Insider Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: June 21, 2024

Yorkshire county in northern England is a perfect destination that has something to offer for everyone. Beautiful towns, charming villages, and two national parks offer plenty of sightseeing options. There is something to see and do to suit all ages, interests, and abilities.

If you are looking for ideas on what to see and do in Yorkshire , this article will give you plenty of inspiration on where to go and what to do. In this selection, we feature 17 amazing Yorkshire day trip ideas – the very best things to do in Yorkshire. From the most famous tourist destinations to local’s favorites, quirky attractions, and hidden gems of Yorkshire.

Good to know: This article features insider tips and recommendations by Yorkshire native Sinead from York Travel Expert . She lives in York and knows the region really well. For our blog, she selected the very best day trips and places to see in Yorkshire and also included practical tips and suggestions to help you plan your visit.

We also included a map featuring all the best places to visit in Yorkshire mentioned in this article. At the bottom of this post, you can also find tips for getting around Yorkshire and the best base for your day trips and excursions in this beautiful part of England. Find out!

Yorkshire is very diverse and there is so much to see and do! The cosmopolitan cities of York, Leeds, Sheffield, and Hull offer world-class museums and lively city centers. You’ll find countless historical attractions in Yorkshire’s market towns and villages.

The hills and valleys of the Yorkshire Dales NP have stunning landscapes of woodlands and waterfalls. Whereas the contrasting, windswept Moors provide fantastic hiking opportunities…

If you don’t have a car and are looking for the best day tours in Yorkshire, here are the very best organized day trips that you can do from York:

• The Yorkshire Dales Tour from York
• Moors, Whitby & The Yorkshire Steam Railway Day Trip
• North York Moors & Whitby from York

Further below, you can find the very best day trip destinations in Yorkshire. And here is a map indicating all the main locations mentioned in this article.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Good to know: If you are looking for Yorkshire Dales National Park on this list, you should know that it’s a huge National Park with towns, villages, endless hiking possibilities, etc. So it’s not just one place to go visit. Several places mentioned in this article are inside Yorkshire Dales NP. If you want to see the very best of this area in a nutshell, then you should consider visiting with an organized day tour that covers several locations in one day .

These are the best things to do in Yorkshire as a day trip:

No trip to Yorkshire would be complete without visiting York , one of the nicest cities in the UK . It’s a fascinating city with a rich cultural heritage and a range of attractions dating from the Roman, Viking, Georgian, and Victorian eras. The city center has parks and pedestrianized streets making York a very pleasant city trip destination; it’s also easy to visit with kids. 

There are so many unmissable  things to do in York  that you will want to spend more than one day in the city!

Don’t miss the largest gothic cathedral in northern Europe, York Minster . If you are up for it, climb the 275 steps of the central tower for a fabulous view of the city. Every Saturday, York Minster runs engaging tours of the cathedral.

Walk the city’s medieval stone walls . At two miles long, they are the longest city walls in England. Make sure to check out the quirky old street The Shambles , voted ‘Best Street in Britain’. It’s said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter films. 

If you want to learn about the history of York, visit the Jorvik Viking Centre , the Yorkshire Museum , or the excellent York Castle Museum . 

Walk the windy ramparts of Clifford’s Tower or take a break from the city center with a relaxing cruise down the River Ouse.  

TIP:  Anyone visiting  York with kids , should take the tasty tour at York Chocolate Story . It ends with the opportunity to make your own chocolate lollipop. 

How to visit:   Leave your car at one of the city’s Park & Ride locations to avoid city center driving and parking fees. Alternatively, travel to York by train. York’s central rail station is a short, ten-minute walk to the city center. If you want to see all the highlights in a short time, consider joining this popular walking tour with a local guide . If you want to ‘see it all’ in a day, hop-on hop-off bus might be a good option for getting around York.

2. Bolton Abbey

Bolton Abbey or Bolton Priory is part of a private estate owned by the Duke of Devonshire and an amazing place to visit as a day trip from York. It’s located on the southern edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park and is often included in Yorkshire Dales day tours . This is not the same place as Bolton Castle, mentioned under the Wensleydale day trip above.

There is so much to see and explore at this historic site! The main highlight is the ruins of the Augustinian abbey and church which was founded here in the 12th century. 

The rest of the extensive estate lies across a narrow river accessed by a wooden bridge or over Bolton Abbey’s iconic 6o stepping stones. Kids and adults alike love hopping from stone to stone in order to cross the river. There are also a number of scenic walking trails along the riverbank or through the shaded Strid Wood. Don’t miss Strid Wood’s famous ‘money tree.’

Bolton Abbey is free to visit; you only pay for car parking. You can find more practical information on their website .

TIP: Pack a towel if visiting Bolton Abbey in summer as you won’t be able to resist paddling in the river on a hot Yorkshire day! You can easily spend 4-5 hours exploring the estate. Count even more time if you enjoy a paddle and a picnic.

How to visit:   Bolton Abbey is about 1-hour drive from York and is best visited by car. You can also catch a steam train from nearby Embsay. The train ride takes 20 minutes to reach tiny Bolton Abbey station from where it is a 1,5-mile walk to Bolton Abbey estate. Alternatively, you can also visit with this organized tour from York .

3. Wensleydale

Wensleydale is a valley in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. A day trip here encompasses the best that the Dales has to offer – waterfalls, history, food, and farming. This is the place that most Yorkshire Dales National Park tours visit.

First stop is Bolton Castle . This privately-owned castle is the best-preserved medieval castle in England and offers something for visitors of all ages.

From February to November, visitors can tour rooms in the castle and observe an archery display in the impressive castle courtyard. In the manicured grounds of the castle, you’ll find a maze and delightful herb garden. There is a Bird of Prey and Falconry display daily and visitors can brave the wild boar feeding session.

Two miles away from Bolton Castle is Aysgarth Falls . This attraction is free to enter, but there is a small fee for parking. The falls are actually three separate waterfalls – Upper Force, Middle Force, and Lower Force. These waterfalls tumble over three limestone steps over a scenic, one mile stretch of the River Ure. The falls can be viewed from a woodland path that runs alongside the river. 

Aysgarth Falls is a beautiful location to visit at any time of year. The changing colors of spring and autumn provide perfect photo opportunities. The waterfalls are particularly spectacular after heavy rainfall. 

A 12-minute drive away (unless you get stuck behind a tractor!) is the Dales Countryside Museum in Hawes . This small museum is housed in a lovely Victorian rail station and depicts the changes in life and farming for people living in the Yorkshire Dales. There is a rolling program of activities and exhibitions with the opportunity to try out traditional crafts and farming skills. 

Whilst in Hawes, pop into the Wensleydale creamery to see the famous Yorkshire cheese being made. 

Wensleydale is the favorite cheese of the character Wallace, from Wallace and Gromit movies. You will not be able to leave the creamery without making a purchase. 

TIP: At Aysgarth Falls, visitors can access the water’s edge at Upper Force and at Lower Force. Lower Force is accessed by an uneven path descending from the main path. Both riverbanks are unfenced and the rocks can be slippery when wet. Aysgarth Falls is the best location during this day trip for a picnic. 

How to visit : The start of your day trip, Bolton Castle, is a one-hour drive from York. You should count the whole day for this area.

Whitby is a popular seaside resort on the North Yorkshire coast but one that retains a traditional feel. it’s a working harbor town that is thankfully not overrun with arcades or funfairs. 

You can stroll Whitby’s long, clean, sandy beach, wander the town’s cobbled lanes, or visit the museum dedicated to Whitby’s famous son, the explorer Captain James Cook.  

Strong legs can climb Whitby’s famous 199 stone steps which lead to an iconic clifftop Yorkshire landmark, Whitby Abbey . The 13th century gothic ruins of Whitby Abbey are well worth a visit. You also get a fantastic view of Whitby and the North Yorkshire coastline. 

Whitby is an atmospheric, windswept location. This is why Bram Stoker was inspired to cast Whitby as Dracula’s landing place in his famous vampire novel.

TIP: People drive from all over Yorkshire just to buy fish and chips in Whitby! Don’t leave the town until you have tried a Whitby chippy dinner.

How to visit: Whitby can be reached by public bus or by car from York or Leeds. The regular ‘Coastliner’ service crosses the Yorkshire Moors to reach Whitby and the route was recently voted ‘Britain’s Most Scenic Bus Route’. Whitby is also part of these day tours that also include several other great attractions in this area.

5. Robin Hood’s Bay

Robins Hood’s Bay is an old fishing village whose steep, cobbled lanes are too narrow for cars to access. You can explore the winding lanes lined with tiny, Victorian-era cottages, or visit the free Old Coastguard Station on the seafront. This is a good place to learn about the geology of the area and its seafaring history. 

The village also has a long, sandy beach offering plenty of space to play, relax or explore the rock pools. Robin Hoods Bay is part of Yorkshire’s Jurassic coastline. Fossils such as ammonites, belemnites, and Devils Toenail are regularly found on the beach.

TIP: Extend your trip with a hike to visit the seal colony at nearby Ravenscar. 

Insider tip: Robin Hood’s Bay can be visited on foot from Whitby by hiking along the North Yorkshire Coastal Path, part of the long-distance Cleveland Way National Trail. It’s a scenic, 7-mile walk (one way) with dramatic views of the coastline, sheltered coves, secluded bays, and Whitby’s isolated lighthouse. The challenging, undulating walk is not technically difficult but is high up and unfenced! You can return along the same path or catch a public bus from Robin Hoods Bay back to Whitby.

How to visit: Visitors to Robin Hoods Bay must park in one of the fee-paying car parks on the top of the hill outside the village. It is a steep descent down into the village and your legs will feel the strain on the way back up! Robin Hood’s Bay can also be visited with a tour from York .

6. Ingleton

Ingleton is a charming Dales town lying on the southern edge of the Yorkshire Dales NP. It is well worth spending a long day trip here as there are several excellent attractions within this area. 

One of the most popular attractions in Ingleton is the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail . This 4,5-mile hike over privately owned land offers scenic views of 6 pretty waterfalls. This is a beautiful hiking trail offering a mix of woodland, waterside paths, and wooden bridges. There is a fee to access the trail, but it’s well worth it! Depending on your walking speed, the trail will take between 2 – 3 hours.

A trip to nearby White Scar Cave – the longest showcave in England – will take around 2 hours. Kids will love donning a hard hat to descend the 97 steps into the depths of the cave. Once underground, metal walkways and earthen paths lead you around the cave. You can see an underground waterfall and formations such as the spookily named ‘The Witches Fingers’. 

Most of White Scar Cave is head height, but there are a couple of sections where you have to bend a bit. There is also one very narrow section that will require a squeeze! 

Alternatively, bring your hiking boots and attempt to hike to the top of Yorkshire’s second-highest peak, Ingleborough , at 723 meters high. There are several routes of differing lengths to reach the top of Ingleborough. The most interesting route starts in the village of Clapham. You will pass several cave entrances along the way, including Gaping Gill which contains the largest cave cavern in England. 

When you reach the plateau summit of Ingleborough, you will be rewarded with fantastic views across the Dale. On a clear day, you can see the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct . 

You can descend via the same route or on a circular route on which you will cross over ethereal limestone outcrops similar to those at the top of Malham Cove. Ingleborough is not a technically challenging hike though there are some steep climbs in places. 

TIP: Expect the hike to the top of Ingleborough to take around 4-5 hours round trip. There are no facilities once you leave Clapham, so bring plenty of snacks and water. The weather in the Yorkshire Dales can change quickly so always be prepared for any weather. 

How to visit : From the city of York, Ingleton is a 2-hour drive. There are several day-tour possibilities as well.

7. North Yorkshire Moors Railway

The North York Moors Railway is an old-fashioned steam train running from Pickering, across the Yorkshire Moors, to the pretty village of Goathland. This is a very nice day trip in Yorkshire, popular with locals and tourists alike.

The ‘hop on hop off’ tickets are valid the whole day, so this is a great way to explore the villages and sights of the North Yorkshire Moors. For example, take a break at lovely Levisham and hike over Levisham Moor. Keep an eye for evidence of Bronze Age habitation and burial sites along the way. 

Your final destination is Goathland, featured in the hit tv series’ Heartbeat’. It will be more recognizable to children as the setting for Hogsmeade Rail Station in the Harry Potter movies. 

A direct, non-stop trip from Pickering to Goathland takes approximately 45 minutes. Stopping off at the different stations will require a full day, so arrive early to catch one of the first trains departing Pickering.

TIP: It is also possible to travel to Whitby using the North York Moors Railway. The line operates from April to October with festive trips available on December weekends.

How to visit : Catch the train from Pickering station, a 30-minute drive from York. There is also a tour that covers Whitby, Moors, and Yorkshire Railway on a day trip from York.

8. Malham Cove

Malham Cove is an unmissable location in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. The imposing stone cove is a natural amphitheater. It’s 230 feet high and was once home to a plunging waterfall higher than Niagara Falls. 

At the base of Malham Cove, a set of uneven stone steps wind to the top of the cove and a fantastic view over the Yorkshire Dales. The edge of the cove is unfenced and the limestone ‘pavement’ at the top is riddled with holes and crevices, so take care where you walk! 

The pavement top of Malham Cove is a must-visit for Harry Potter fans! This is the site where Hermione and Harry camped in the Deathly Hallows movie . 

There are a number of excellent hiking opportunities in this area. One of the best hikes is a long, full day circular hike that encompasses all of the major sights in this area. Starting from Malham Village, a signposted trail leads through woodland to pretty Janet’s Foss Waterfall . From here, it is a further 0,5 mile to dramatic Gordale Scar , a huge gorge with towering rock faces. 

There are a couple of route options to reach the top of the gorge where the path eventually arrives at Malham Tarn , one of only two natural lakes in the Yorkshire Dales. From Malham Tarn, it is a short walk to the top of Malham Cove to where you can descend back to your starting point in Malham village. 

The hike is not technically difficult but is a full day 13-kilometer hike. It will take around 5 hours with stops. There are no facilities on the hiking trails.

TIP: There are two family-friendly pubs and an excellent tea room in Malham Village.

How to visit : You’ll need a car to get here. Park in the permitted parking areas in Malham Village. This is a free to access rural area, but please be respectful to local residents and only park in approved car parks. There are also some guided day tours that visit this area from York, Liverpool, or Manchester.

9. National Railway Museum in York

The National Railway Museum is one of the best  free things to do in York. You will need a full day to see everything at the museum, so this is a great day trip in itself! But since it’s free, you can always take a look even if you don’t have that much time.

The museum is packed with gleaming train engines and carriages of every shape and color. See inside the luxurious Royal Train or rest weary feet in a Shinkansen carriage, the only Bullet Train carriage displayed outside Japan. 

Marvel at the size of a Eurostar nose cone under a cross-section of the Channel Tunnel and view historic trains such as the fastest steam train in the world, the Mallard. 

Families will love the entertaining and educational science shows that run daily. Kids will particularly enjoy seeing Barbie shot out of a cannon!

View the talented restorers at work from an elevated walkway above the museum workshop or wave at trains entering and departing York rail station from the Museum’s popular outdoor balcony. 

TIP: There is an excellent restaurant and cafe on site, but visitors are permitted to bring their own picnic. 

How to visit : The Museum is a 10-minute walk from the center of York or you can catch the museum’s ‘road train’ from outside York Minster. It is located just behind York railway station making it an ideal attraction to visit if arriving in York by train. There is also a car park on-site (paid). For more practical information, please check the official website of the museum .

10. Castle Howard and Yorkshire Arboretum

Castle Howard is an impressive, privately owned country home located in the rolling Howardian Hills, just outside the city of York.

The historic house is beautifully restored and you can tour the elaborately furnished rooms. The highlights include the decorated dome of the main hall and the ornate chapel. The extensive grounds at Castle Howard provide scenic walks with lovely countryside views. 

In addition, there is a recently renovated outdoor adventure playground in an idyllic woodland/ lakeside setting. Visitors to Castle Howard will recognize it as the setting for the TV series ‘Brideshead Revisited.’

Castle Howard will take most of your day but if you have any time to spare, visit the Yorkshire Arboretum which is directly opposite the entrance drive to Castle Howard. The arboretum covers a huge 120-acre site and contains 6,000 trees from around the world. You can freely wander the tree collection or follow self-guided trails between 1 -2 hours long. 

TIP: Castle Howard is a great place to visit at any time of year but Yorkshire residents like to come here at Christmas time. For many, it has become a family tradition. Every Christmas, the rooms of the house are colorfully and artistically decorated to a new theme. 

How to visit : Castle Howard is only accessible by car. It is a short 20-minute drive from York city center. You can find more information and book your tickets here .

11. Yorkshire Sculpture Park

The Yorkshire Sculpture Park is an outdoor art gallery in a stunning landscape in Bretton, just south of Leeds and less than an hour from York. It’s a wonderful day trip in Yorkshire, especially for those who are looking to get a bit off the beaten path. It’s also a great value for money as you only pay for parking. 

The 500-acre park is packed with sculptures ranging from unusual, abstract pieces to more traditional metal or wood carvings. Most of the sculptures are engaging, large works of art. Some pieces are over 10 meters tall. Even if you spend here the whole day, you are unlikely to cover all the sculptures within this beautiful park. There is so much to see!

Families can get creative at one of the family-friendly activities on offer in the indoor galleries. 

TIP: Pack waterproofs as the park is completely open to the elements. But don’t let bad weather put you off visiting; the sculpture park can be an atmospheric location on a rainy day. 

How to visit : The Yorkshire Sculpture Park is easiest to reach by car; it’s a 45minute drive from York via the major M1 motorway. Getting here by public transport is also possible. For more practical info, please check their website .

12. Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Water Garden

Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Water Garden is a beautiful historic property in Ripon, North Yorkshire. It is owned by England’s National Trust and one entry ticket covers both sections of the estate. 

Fountains Abbey contains the largest monastic ruins in England. The extensive 12th-century Benedictine ruins are full of hidden alcoves and secret staircases. The open, angular ruins create fantastic photo opportunities. 

Discover the history of the abbey at the Porters Lodge exhibition or have a go at traditional crafts such as weaving at Swanley Grange near the entrance to the abbey ruins. Don’t miss the Grange’s excellent, medieval-inspired vegetable garden. 

Fountains Abbey is linked by a grass walkway to Studley Royal Water Garden . These stunning gardens were landscaped in the 18th century and contain summerhouses, ornamental lakes, moon ponds, and countless sculptures. There are also several hidden folly’s for children to find and extensive walking trails around the deer park and Studley’s ancient woodland. 

Studley Royal Water Garden is a beautiful, tranquil location. It is not your average garden attraction. This is why it was granted World Heritage status in 1986. Well-worth visiting!

TIP:  Comfortable walking shoes are essential – you can spend all day walking here! If you are visiting with children, don’t miss Fountains Abbey’s large adventure playground. This is one of the best outdoor playgrounds in Yorkshire.

How to visit : The estate is a 45-minute drive from York.

13. Harrogate, Knaresborough, and Harlow Carr

Harrogate town in North Yorkshire was famous in the Victorian era as a wellbeing destination and rejuvenating spa town. The town retains many grand Victorian buildings. 

You can learn about the history of Harrogate at the town’s Royal Pump Room Museum and join one of their daily tours to see the wells. Be warned – the sulfur wells are reputed to be the strongest in Europe! Allow 1 – 2 hours for your visit. 

After the museum, indulge in a traditional Turkish bath in the beautifully restored, 19th-century Turkish Baths . Rejuvenated, take a stroll around pretty Valley Gardens , a landscaped park in the center of Harrogate. From the center of Harrogate, it is a 40-minute signposted walk or a short 10-minute drive to Harlow Carr. 

The nearby Knaresborough Castle and Knaresborough town is also well worth a visit.

RHS Garden Harlow Carr is a beautiful garden that is open to the public year-round. Every season offers a different experience for visitors. Within the 58-acre garden, there is a woodland and wildflower area as well as more traditional areas such as a kitchen garden, alpine garden, and colorful borders.

Harlow Carr offers activities centered around the plants and animals found within the gardens. There is also a huge woodland treehouse on site. To fully explore Harlow Carr, allow 2 – 3 hours for your visit. Many visitors stay here all day. 

TIP: After a full day exploring, treat yourself to an afternoon tea at the iconic Bettys Café Tea Rooms . This 100-year-old tea room can be found in the Harrogate town center. The tea room is famous for its art deco appearance and luxurious, elegant style. Make sure to try one of Betty’s signature cakes, the delicious Fat Rascal!

How to visit:  Harrogate can be accessed by train from York or Leeds in just 20 minutes. Avoid driving into the town center if you can as parking is limited. 

14. Sutton Bank NP, Kilburn White Horse & Rievaulx Abbey

Sutton Bank is a steep hill in North Yorkshire whose escarpment and plateau were formed as a result of the movement of ice age glaciers. This area forms the western edge of the North York Moors National Park . 

Visitors to the Sutton Bank National Park Centre will be rewarded with sweeping views of the Vale of York. You can get hiking maps at the visitors’ center, but most people come to Sutton Bank for its thrilling cycling trails and for the White Horse. Sutton Bank offers cycle trails to suit all ages and abilities and you can hire bikes and spend half a day here.

Don’t miss the Kilburn White Horse . The White Horse ‘sculpture’ is an iconic Yorkshire landmark that can be seen for miles around. Yorkshire people assess the weather based on whether they can see the white horse or not! 

The horse was constructed in 1857 to compete with giant chalk sculptures in the south of England. Unlike its competitors, the Kilburn White Horse was not cut into the chalk, but limestone. This means the horse requires regular ‘whitening’ with chalk chippings to stay white. This is no easy task as the horse measures 314 ft long and 228 ft high! 

You can complete a circular walk to the White Horse returning to Sutton Bank via a pretty woodland trail. Allow 2 hours for this walk. 

If you rather do some more sightseeing in Yorkshire instead of biking or hiking, you may want to check out the nearby Rievaulx Abbey . Here, you can visit the ruins of an impressive 11th-century abbey and a nice museum that captures the lives of monks. There is also a nice cafe on-site cafe serving amazing hot chocolates and scones.

TIP: Sutton Bank is a designated Dark Skies area. After dark, car parking is free for keen stargazers to gather to look at the night sky. Sutton Bank National Park runs year-round stargazing activities. The North York Moors National Park hosts an annual Dark Skies festival every February. 

How to visit : The White Horse can only be reached by car along some of Yorkshire’s windiest roads! Leave the A19 to head towards the small village of Kilburn from where you can pick up the brown road signs to reach the elevated car park under the White Horse. If you drive directly to Sutton Bank Visitor Centre, it can be found just off the A170 between Thirsk and Helmsley. Rievaulx Abbey is just a short ride from Helmsley as well.

The port city of Hull is an underrated visitor attraction in Yorkshire. It’s a great Yorkshire day trip destination for young and old! The city boasts a charming old town section lined with grand Georgian and Victorian-era houses, maritime warehouses, and cobbled streets. The old town is packed with lively restaurants and cafes and is a great place to get lost in! 

Within this old town is Hull’s excellent Museum Quarter . All of the museums here are worth a visit and are in close proximity to each other.

The free Streetlife Museum charts 200 years of transport developments. You can climb aboard trams, buses, and walk a recreated 1940’s street. It is a ‘must visit’ for social history fans as well as vehicle lovers.

Next door is the Hull & East Riding Museum and a little further on, Wilberforce House . Wilberforce House was the home of William Wilberforce, who is credited with bringing an end to slavery in England. Both of these excellent museums are free to enter and well worth your time.

In addition, check out Hull Minster church or head to the bustling Fruit Market at Hull Marina for a fantastic choice of street food. 

TIP: If you have any time left in your day trip to Hull, head to The Deep , a world-class, aquarium on the waterfront. 

How to visit : Hull can easily be accessed by train from York, Sheffield, or Leeds. Hull’s central rail station is just a 15-minute walk to the Museum Quarter. 

16. Newby Hall

Newby Hall is an 18th-century country house with beautiful gardens. It’s a favorite day out for many Yorkshire families, especially those on a multigenerational trip. The privately-owned Newby Hall helpfully offers separate entrance tickets to the stately home and the extensive gardens. So depending on your interests, you can choose which sections of the estate to visit. 

Newby Hall manor was built in the 1690s by Sir Christopher Wren who also built St. Paul’s Cathedral in London. The house is elegantly and elaborately decorated in an 18th-century style. You can visit recreated dining rooms and bedrooms, with highlights including the Billiards Room and the intricate needlework of the Tapestry Room. 

The colorful, landscaped gardens are dotted with winding paths leading to special interest sections such as the Tropical Garden or the White Garden. For reluctant little legs, there is a miniature steam railway that runs a 1.4-kilometer loop around a section of the garden that borders the River Ure.

However, the main attraction for families at Newby Hall is a huge, outdoor adventure playground. Kids will love the aerial slide, climbing frames, sandpit, and rope-operated aerial swing boats. Adults are not left out and are able to use the pedalo boats on the playground’s central lake. 

TIP: If you have any time after your day trip to Newby Hall, check out Ripon Cathedral in the nearby market town of Ripon. This stunning cathedral retains its original 7th-century crypt from the church that was originally built here by St Wilfred. 

The current church that now stands above the crypt was built in the 12th century. It is world-famous for its unusual misericords (supports in the choir stalls) which date from the late 15th century. 

How to visit:  Newby Hall is only accessible by car and is approximately a 40-minute drive from York. For practical information and opening times, please check their website .

17. The Forbidden Corner

The Forbidden Corner near Bedale is a fun, 4-acre park and a very unique Yorkshire attraction. Visitors receive a ‘map’ upon entry which shows you what there is to see inside the park. However, the map does not tell you how to find these attractions.

You have to follow every path and turn every door handle in a quest to discover the park’s secret passageways and underground chambers. It’s one of the best things to do in the Yorkshire Dales with kids!

You will need to squeeze through narrow walls, crawl through cramped tunnels, and dodge water-spouting statues and follies. In other words, a visit to the Forbidden Corner is about expecting the unexpected! 

The park can be rushed in 2-3 hours but you will need longer if you want to discover all the park’s attractions. Food is not allowed inside The Forbidden Corner but there is a large, shaded picnic area outside the park entrance.

TIP: Spend the rest of your day exploring Tupgill Park in which the Forbidden Corner is situated. 

How to visit: Bedale is a one-hour drive from the city of York and a 1,5 hrs drive from Leeds. After leaving the major A1 (M) road, you will be driving on winding, undulating roads to reach the Forbidden Corner. For more info, please consult their website .

Because this place is so special and quirky, no pictures do it justice. Take a look at the video below if you want to get an idea of what to expect.

How to get to Yorkshire

Yorkshire is a 5-hour drive or just 2 hours by train from London . The region can be reached in 3 hours by train from Edinburgh .

The nearest airport is Leeds Bradford International Airport, located in West Yorkshire. The airport has good bus links to local train stations and to other parts of Yorkshire. 

Alternatively, many visitors arrive by ferry into the East Yorkshire city of Hull. Ferries travel to Hull from Rotterdam in the Netherlands and from Zeebrugge in Belgium.

How to travel around Yorkshire

Yorkshire is England’s biggest county and encompasses a large section of the north of England. It is divided into the smaller counties of North Yorkshire, South Yorkshire, West Yorkshire and East Riding of Yorkshire.

The major cities of each area – Leeds, Sheffield, York, and Hull can be accessed by motorway, major ‘A’ roads, and by frequent, fast rail links. 

There is a good public bus network to explore Yorkshire’s smaller towns and villages. But to fully explore rural Yorkshire, it’s best to hire a car ( see here for car rental ). Self-driving in Yorkshire is easy; roads are well maintained with good signposting. 

However, if you are visiting rural areas such as the Yorkshire Dales or Yorkshire Moors, you should be prepared for narrow, winding roads with high hedges and dry-stone walls blocking visibility in places. Yorkshire is dotted with one-lane roads, blind bends, and summits. So adjust your speed and familiarize yourself with the rules of countryside driving. 

In addition, country roads can add a significant amount of time onto relatively short journeys. For example, from the city of York to Ingleton in the Yorkshire Dales is only 68 miles / 109 km, but due to the nature of the roads, the journey time averages 2 hours each way.  

Where to stay for exploring Yorkshire

The city of York is a perfect base for exploring the rest of Yorkshire. York lies in the middle of the region and has excellent road, rail and bus links around the county.

Traveling by train, you can reach Leeds in 30 minutes and Hull in 50 minutes. By car, it is a 1-hour drive to the edge of the Yorkshire Dales and a 1 ½ hour drive to the North Yorkshire Coast.

TIP: If you don’t want to rent a car, York is the best base for exploring as well. There are many great day tours from York that allow you to easily see some of the best places in Yorkshire.

Here are some nice hotels in York for all budgets:

• £££££ The Grand, York – a wonderful 5-star hotel with an excellent location.
• ££££ Hilton York and Novotel York Centre are popular choices among the 4-star hotels in York.
• £££ Park Inn by Radisson York City Centre – a great 3-star hotel, one of the best picks in York.
• ££ Ibis York Center is a good lower-budget option in York.

TIP: Using the map below, you can find the best deals for hotels, B&Bs, and short-term rental accommodations in and around York . Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see what’s available for your stay. Check it out!

More inspiration for your trip to England:

• Best Things to Do in Liverpool
• Liverpool Day Trip from London
• Best Things to Do in Manchester
• Manchester in One Day
• Best Places to Visit in Cornwall
• Where to Stay in Cornwall
• Best Things to Do in Blackpool
• Tips for Visiting Blackpool
• Places to Go Near Blackpool
• The Beatles Attractions in Liverpool

London travel guides:

• Tips for Visiting London
• Best Things to Do in London
• 1 Day in London
• 2 Days London Itinerary
• Hidden Gems of London
• Things to Do in Greenwich
• Things to Do in Camden Town
• London with Kids
• London with Teenagers
• Free Things to Do in London
• Best Views of London
• Best Day Tours from London

Travel inspiration for Scotland:

• Top Things to Do in Edinburgh
• Isle of Skye Itinerary
• Scotland Whisky Tour
• One Day in Edinburgh
• One Day in Glasgow

READ ALSO: Best Traditional British Dishes to Try in the UK

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Colleen Bower

Wednesday 18th of January 2023

Thank you so much for this website it has given me plenty of ideas as I was not sure of best place to stay but it looks like York best place to be in and do tours. Again great website thank you

Thursday 19th of January 2023

Glad to hear you found it useful, Colleen. York can be a great base especially if you want to take some tours. But if you are renting a car, you can also plan a mini road trip around the region. It's all about how you prefer to travel. Have a great trip!

Friday 4th of February 2022

Wonderful website! Beautiful photos and helpful info

Thanks, Denise. Happy travels!

Saturday 20th of March 2021

Yorkshire is awesome

13 BEST Day Trips From York, England

From exploring the yorkshire dales to a day out at castle howard, these are the best day trips from york perfect for the whole family..

York is one of our favourite cities in Great Britain, and it’s perfect for a weekend away.

Whether it’s shopping along the Shambles, learning about York’s history (which usually involves eating a lot of chocolate), or discovering medieval pubs to cosy up in, it’s one of those cities that you’ll instantly fall in love with.

However, if you’re looking at staying in the city for more than a couple of days, then here are some of the best day trips from York. This is perfect if you want to see some more of Yorkshire (and you should because it’s beautiful).

Yorkshire is known as “God’s Own Country”, so no trip here would be complete without hiking the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Another must is the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, an old fashioned steam engine. This is one activity that’s perfect for the whole family. I’m not going to lie to you, the dad’s always seem to love it more than the kids!

I really can’t recommend York and the surrounding countryside enough though. Hopefully these York day trips will help you plan your trip here. Right, let’s get into it!

Plus, if you’re looking at treating yourself, here are the best Michelin starred restaurants in Yorkshire and the best luxury and boutique hotels in Yorkshire .

13 Amazing Day Trips from York

Located on the Yorkshire Coast, Whitby is such an amazing place to visit in Yorkshire. Check out the Pavilion where you can watch the latest films in the cinema, rock out at a gig, or grab a portion of tasty fish and chips.

Of course you’re going to want to visit the beach at Whitby. Hop on the Whitby Coastal Cruise where you can sail out into the bay and explore the Yorkshire Coastline. If you prefer to keep your feet on land, you can enjoy the open-top bus tour instead.

Fans of Dracula are going to want to try the audio-guided GeoStories where you can follow in the footsteps of Bram Stoker. Stoker was famously wrote the novel in Whitby, so if you’re a fan of the book there’s an extra special connection here.

Yorkshire Dales National Park

Known for its picturesque scenery, Yorkshire Dales National Park is the perfect choice for those who love the great outdoors. Whether you choose to go walking or to visit historical towns and castle ruins, there’s something for everyone.

The Dales are full of natural attractions, like Malham Cove and Aysgarth Falls. Will you be brave enough to tackle the Three Peaks? Take in the landscapes as you take on one peak, or conquer all three.

If you’re more into sightseeing, there’s so many quaint towns to visit. I love checking out the independent shops in Kirkby Stephen, a small market town. The Parish Church has one of two Loki stones in Europe, which depict the Norse God. 

Kilburn White Horse

Located in the hills of the North Yorkshire Moors National Park is Britain’s largest white horse. Kilburn White Horse is one of the most famous landmarks and a fun day trip from York. 

At a massive 318 feet long and 220 feet high, you can’t miss it! Why not take a walk down the scenic footpath to see the majestic horse up close? Did you know, the best view is from Bagby Road? Take a seat on one of the benches or capture the perfect picture to share on Instagram!

Castle Howard

Castle Howard and gardens is a unique day trip from York. The well preserved house and exquisite gardens are a must-see. 

Whilst touring around the house, there are so many unique exhibits and tours to choose from. You can learn about the hidden lives of the women at Castle Howard, hidden objects, or the impact of the war. I would personally recommend visiting the chapel, with its stunning pre-Raphaelite architecture. 

Castle Howard is a popular filming location. Can you spot where scenes from Bridgerton and Victoria were filmed? It was even used in the Arctic Monkeys ‘Four Out Of Five’ video!

North Yorkshire Moors Railway

For a fantastic day out, head to the North Yorkshire Moors Railway . This is an old fashioned steam train that runs from Whitby along the Yorkshire coast to Pickering.

Once a popular route, this heritage rail line was brought back to life and reopened showing what the journey would’ve once been like. Each station is a classic station from the early-mid 1900’s. The life of the railway has gone full circle, and it’s now one of the busiest steam trains again in the world!

On the train you can have afternoon tea, have a delicious decadent dinner, meet Santa during the holiday season, or our favourite, solve a murder mystery. This really is one of the best day trips from York that’s for sure!

Visit Leeds , the unofficial capital of Yorkshire, for a fantastic day out. Whether you’re a couple enjoying a date, a family looking for fun or you want to shop ‘till you drop, there’s plenty for everyone in this city.

Head to Tropical World or Meanwood Valley Urban Farm for an animal-packed day with the kids, or check out one of Leeds’ many museums for a quieter day. We love visiting the ancient Egyptian mummies at Leeds City Museum!

Don’t forget to check out the independent food scene – after all, Leeds is known as the foodie capital of the North.

Home of the Bronte sisters, Haworth is a must-visit. With a rich literary history and surrounded by the Moors, there’s so much to do in this picturesque village.

Of course you must visit the Bronte Parsonage Museum and experience how the famous sisters lived as they wrote novels which would stand the test of time. Perhaps you’d prefer to explore Haworth village and park on a short one mile walk through the cobbled streets?

Treat yourself to a delicious afternoon tea at Cobbles and Clay or head to Mrs Beighton’s Sweet Shop to choose from over 500 different varieties of sweets!

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, the charming village of Saltaire has a rich industrial past. Now it’s home to many museums, including the infamous Salts Mill. 

Why not hop aboard the Saltaire Trio Boat to see the charming village in all its glory as you sail down the canal? Be sure to look out for Victoria Hall and Roberts Park. Art fans can check out the David Hockney collection at Salts Mill.

For a unique experience visit Interlude Cafe, a 1920s style tea room that specialises in a classic cream tea. Do you put jam or cream first?

The Forbidden Corner

The Forbidden Corner is one of York’s most unique attractions. Located in Tupgill Park, the labyrinth of tunnels and chambers make for a brilliant family day out.

Run through the underground dwellings and explore the stone pathways to see what surprises pop out. There are many things to see, from the Green Man and castle towers. The newest addition is the stained glass windows which have come from Carlton Church.

Don’t forget to take your picnic and enjoy the gardens and outdoors areas. I’ll be munching on fresh donuts from The Potting Shed – yum!

Durham 

From museums and parks, to shopping and museums, there’s so much to do in Durham. This city is full of activities for family fun, a romantic date, or a solo adventure.

For some family fun, check out Beamish, the living museum of the north. Here you can travel back in time in this immersive experience. It’s brilliant fun!

Durham is the perfect place for shopaholics. From farmers markets and antiques, to independent boutiques and shopping centres, you’ll find exactly what you need. Pick out a new cushion with your partner or take yourself on a shopping spree. 

Knaresborough 

With stunning architecture surrounded by cliffs, Knaresborough is top of my list of places to visit in Yorkshire. I just love the feel of the marketplace surrounded by mediaeval streets.

Check out the mediaeval remains of Knaresborough Castle before checking out the independent shops in the traditional marketplace. I love visiting Yorkshire Mixture, where you can choose from 100 jars of traditional sweets. 

If you love the great outdoors you’re going to want to visit Mother Shipton’s Cave and the Petrifying Well. The landmark is England’s oldest visitor attraction and has been open since 1630! Check out the mile-long walk along the River Nidd.

Bolton Abbey

There’s so much to see and do at Bolton Abbey making it’s place to visit. From the Priory Church and Ruins and Barden Tower, to the Valley of Desolation and The Money Tree, you’ll be entertained for hours. 

Check out the stunning 12th century ruins of the Augustinian Priory before venturing through the riverside landscapes that surround it.

Why not admire the aqueduct or jump across the 60 stepping stones across the river, which were once a crossing point for workers. 

Harrogate 

Rounding off our list of York day trips is Harrogate , which is a fantastic year-round destination. Discover the Victorian spa town and all it has to offer.

The Turkish Baths are perfect for a romantic getaway. Offering modern treatments with the Victorian Turkish baths decor, this is the ideal location for a relaxing couples activity. Why not finish your evening with a show at one of Harrogate’s many theatres?

Our green-fingered readers are going to love the variety of gardens in Harrogate. Check out the Himalayan Gardens and Sculpture Park where you can discover over 80 sculptures and botanical masterpieces! 

There are so many fantastic day trips from York to choose from! Which one of these are at the top of your list? If you have any questions at all you can let us know in the comments below!

Like this blog post? Then Pin it for the future!

Leave a comment Cancel reply

One Day In York Itinerary – Top Things To Do In York, England

Many will argue that you haven’t truly experienced England until you’ve moved away from London, and the town of York will give you plenty of reasons to get away from the capital city and explore. The rich history and some truly beautiful pieces of architecture combine fabulously with some very nice restaurants, and the place has that quintessentially English vibe that enchants visitors and makes them want to come back again. But since you only have one day in York, you have to plan it well. Or you can just follow this itinerary to explore all the most important sights the town has to offer.

What’s the best time to visit York, England?

As is the case with pretty much all of England, the best time to visit York is probably summer because the temperatures usually don’t go as high as for example in the Mediterranean at that time of year. However, do keep in mind that summer months are quite wet, and rain is fairly common. Because of that May and September also might be good times to visit York – they are relatively warm, but with much less precipitation.

However, you may want to schedule your one day in York in accordance with one of the numerous fun festivals there. The Roman Festival starts in June and celebrates the city’s founding by ancient Romans which means you can find people dressed like Romans everywhere. Jorvik Viking Festival in February is incredibly popular too, and foodies will not want to miss the Food Festival in September, the largest food festival in the UK! Those are just the beginning, though, and you will find something interesting, whenever you come!

A few facts about York

The city started out under the name of Eboracum, as it was founded by ancient Romans in 71 AD. Today, it is one of 51 cities in England with slightly more than 200,000 people and incredibly rich history.

Don’t let the names around here confuse you – what are called bars are actually medieval gates, but the word “gates” in York denotes streets.

York has the longest city walls in England!

Plenty of bars to choose from here if you want to sit down and enjoy a nice drink and the local vibe – despite this being a relatively small city, there are more than 365 bars here, with more than 100 in the city centre. Do some digging before you come here and find the one that appeals to you the most.

The official title of the position of York’s mayor is The Right Honourable Lord Mayor, and this is the only city in England apart from London to bestow that title on the man in charge.

Remember Wars of the Roses? This series of English civil wars in the fifteenth century features the House of Tudor and the House of Lancaster on one side and the House of York on the other. The white rose that symbolized the House of York remains on the flag of Yorkshire to this very day.

One day in York Itinerary

Welcome to York, a city full of incredible history and a place that has played an incredibly important role in so many different periods of English history. There can be no doubt that a day in York is a day well spent as there is plenty to see and experience, but if you need a bit of help planning which places to see, here’s a handy itinerary to point you in the right direction. Enjoy!

Start your day in York with a nice walk

Nothing like a nice walk to start a fantastic day! And what better destination for that than York’s city walls ? The largest part of the walls was built during the Medieval period, although there are parts that go back all the way back to Roman times. The view from up there is quite beautiful, and there are many trees next to the walls which really adds to the experience.

Now, you can do the whole tour, but if you have just one day in York, it may be more prudent to explore just a part of the walls since the walls total more than two miles in length. The bit between Monk Bar and Bootham Bar is particularly pretty because of the Minster looming in the background. Oh, and the entrance is free.

Marvel at the York Minster

Once you’re done with the city walls, you don’t have to go far – the magnificent York Minster is right in front of you! This is one of the symbols of York and a true architectural masterpiece that dates back to the 13th century.

The highlights of the visit include the exceptionally beautiful stained-glass windows, the Treasury which houses numerous fascinating artifacts, and the Central Tower which can be climbed for a spectacular view. Be warned – there are 275 steps here! Keep in mind that this cathedral dedicated to St. Peter is only open till 3 PM, so do come and visit it in the morning.

Explore Shambles

Don’t let the name fool you – Shambles is an incredibly charming part of York and a place that is a must in any itinerary. Numerous shops, restaurants, cafes and other places of that kind are wherever you look, but what makes this place especially interesting is the fact that it dates from the 14th century, and you can still see hooks on the walls from the time when butchers had their stalls here.

It’s a perfect place to sit down for a drink, pick up a souvenir or even sit down for lunch, but those with a bit of adventurous spirit will absolutely love it because there are so many tiny streets (known as Snickleways ) just waiting to be discovered. Try to find Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma Gate if you can – it’s the shortest street in York!

Find a place for lunch

There are plenty of great places for lunch in York, and sitting down for a meal in the heart of this beautiful city is bound to be memorable. Ye Olde Starre Inne is certainly a place to consider because this is the oldest pub in York and offers excellent traditional British dishes. Incredibly, a part of the place dates back all the way to the 16th century!

Apart from that, Little Italy comes very highly recommended, Wine Stories is a great Greek restaurant, Rustique is an excellent choice for French cuisine, and Turtle Bay York offers Caribbean dishes. And that’s just the beginning – you won’t be hungry in this town for very long, that’s for sure!

Head to the National Railway Museum

Trains have played a huge role in York’s history, and you can learn all about that and so much more if you visit the National Railway Museum . Just cross River Ouse to the other side and you’ll quickly find it.

If there is a train lovers’ paradise, this has to be it – everything from locomotives from the early 19th century to Japanese bullet trains is here, and there are plenty of other very interesting things to do. You can, for example, see how Victorian railway stations used to work, climb closer to the ceiling of the museum and look at the trains from above, see the carriages that belonged to Queen Elizabeth and much more.

This short piece of text is not enough to show how awesome this place is, but trust me – well worth a place in your York itinerary.

Climb up to Clifford’s Tower

Go back across the river again and head slightly south. You will see a lone tower rising up above the city. That’s Clifford’s Tower , a building dating back to 1068, although back then it was a wooden construction – it got the current look in the 13th century. Interestingly (and horrifyingly), the tower was used to showcase the heads of executed people.

In any case, the view from up here is spectacular, and the place was recently polished up, so the climb will really be worth the effort.

Enjoy an evening cruise

After a long day in York, you certainly deserve some relaxation, so treat yourself to a sunset cruise along the River Ouse . It takes about an hour and allows you to get to know the city in a whole new way. Some spectacular photo-ops will present themselves along the way, and the boat taking you should be serving snacks and drinks. No doubt, this is a great way to catch your breath a bit after an itinerary like this, plus you will get to take some pictures that will last you a lifetime.

Plan a fun evening

To wrap things up, there are plenty of interesting choices in York. If you’d like to continue the romance after the cruise with your significant other, I would suggest heading to Delrio’s Restaurant for dinner. This Italian restaurant offers a very intimate atmosphere in a beautiful cellar, so the mood should be perfect.

If that’s not your cup of tea, you can visit some of the bars and pubs, and there are plenty of those to choose from – House of Trembling Madness is an excellent bar that promises a lot and delivers on those promises, BrewDog offers Scottish beers, and Pairing Wine Bar is a great choice for wine enthusiasts.

You can also go on a ghost tour, see a play in Theatre Royal which was built in 1744, or go clubbing if you have the energy ( Popworld and Flares are fine choices for that). In short, you’re gonna have a great time and finish off this one day in York in style!

Where to stay in York?

The Grand, York

City Centre, Station Rise, York, YO1 6HT

Luxurious accommodation in York is best epitomized by The Grand , an amazing five-star hotel right in the city centre. The most important feature is the incredible spa with a big pool, hot tub, sauna, and steam room. The rooms are impeccable and come with Molton Brown toiletries among other things, and the hotel’s restaurant and bar will offer plenty of excellent dishes and drinks. Oh, there’s also a fitness centre, too. In short, this is exactly what a five-star accommodation should look like. You’ll love it!

BOOK A ROOM HERE

The Churchill Hotel

65 Bootham, York, YO30 7DQ

Now, this is a beauty! Located in a Georgian mansion from 1827, The Churchill Hotel exudes class and elegance, befitting a hotel named after Britain’s most famous prime minister. The interior is exquisite, with many items related to Winston Churchill himself decorating the walls. The hotel is in a quiet neighborhood, although quite close to York’s centre, plus there is a wonderful beer garden to enjoy, too. Add to that excellent food and comfortable rooms, and this place becomes a real winner!

The Queens Hotel

City Centre, Queens Staith Road, Skeldergate, York, YO1 6DH

The Queens Hotel boasts an excellent location, right in the middle of it all, so from here you will be able to easily experience York to the fullest. Bars, restaurants and numerous important sights are within walking distance, but this is just one of the advantages. The value you get here for your money is excellent, with very comfortable rooms that come with a selection of complimentary toiletries. The food is served in a very relaxed restaurant, the bar is great, and the staff working here are exceptionally kind.

Astor York Hostel

124 Holgate Road, York, YO24 4BB

For those of you looking for a hostel, Astor York Hostel is an excellent choice. First of all, it is located in a beautiful Victorian building, close to the city centre, so the location is as good as it gets. On top of that, however, there’s a nice bar you can enjoy, two very big dining rooms, and a comfortable lounge. Everything is very clean, the rooms will meet all your expectations and more, plus the hostel organizes movie nights. You can’t go wrong with this one!

Day trips from York

Yorkshire boasts some of the most beautiful sceneries in the country, so it would really be a shame to miss out on a day trip from York if you have an opportunity to set one up. Quaint villages and lovely castles, all far away from the city bustle – this is a perfect opportunity to get to see the romantic side of England. Here’s what to consider.

Yorkshire Dales

Yorkshire Dales is a picturesque part of England, with green rolling hills and quaint little towns scattered around where you really get to enjoy a very special vibe. There’s also a national park here, so nature lovers will surely be happy, Bolton Castle is also one of the highlights around here, and this is generally a trip that always leaves you wanting more. Organized tours are also available.

If you want to explore other English cities, Leeds is a great choice because it’s less than an hour away by car. Spending one day in Leeds means enjoying some wonderful architecture, museums, galleries and excellent restaurants at very reasonable prices. This is a student city, after all. Undoubtedly, a great choice for a day trip.

There is also the option of spending one day in Manchester as your day trip from York. While it does take about two hours to get there, visiting this city is so worth it – it is a modern vibrant metropolis with amazingly beautiful libraries, a fascinating town hall, and excellent museums. There are plenty of great shopping venues too, and football fans are sure to love checking out the homes of two illustrious clubs: Manchester United and Manchester City.

A day trip to Whitby will not only allow you to see an incredible national park called North York Moors, but you will also get to know an exceptionally charming coastal town that has a lot to offer. Many will call this the home of fish’n’chips, and Whitby Abbey is famous for serving as an inspiration to Bram Stoker to create Dracula. And that’s just the beginning – Whitby guarantees a wonderful day out!

Extra tips for visiting York

– Always keep English weather in mind – expect rain and pack accordingly

– York is a relatively small city, especially its centre, so you can easily explore everything on foot. Feel free to leave your car at your accommodation or skip renting one out entirely. You can do just fine without it.

– A good thing to keep in mind, since again, this is England, that they use G sockets here. Think ahead if you want your phone charged and ready for taking pictures.

– York does not have an airport. If you’re thinking of flying in, the closest airport is in Leeds, which is not too bad. From there, it will take you an hour or an hour and a half to reach York city center.

– York City Pass will allow you to see many attractions at a lower price

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Related posts:

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

• About Pack and Paint | Solo female travel blog
• Where have I been?
• Work With Me
• Netherlands
• Solo Travel
• Travel Tips
• Budget Travel
• North America
• Affiliate Links Disclosure
• Privacy Policy

York Day Trip: How to spend a day in York

Last Updated on March 14, 2024 by Lauren Allen

If you’re visiting York for a day, you may be wondering what to do with your time. Which attractions should you visit? Where should you go to eat? Are there any cool bars? This guide to visiting the city will share how to have the perfect York day trip whilst visiting this English gem!

Read more: Day trips from York worth adding to your bucket list!

Table of Contents

How to enjoy the perfect York day trip:

Getting to york.

Getting to York from most parts of the UK is pretty easy. Depending on where you are travelling from, there are a number of options. These include:

Car: Travelling by car is almost always the most convenient method of transportation. Despite not always being the fastest route, they allow you to travel at your own pace. Furthermore, they make it possible to stop off at other locations that may not otherwise be accessible by public transport.

Train: Most of the UK is widely accessible by train. York is no different. With a large station located near the city’s main attractions, visiting by train is made super easy!

Coach: Alternatively, if you’d prefer to travel by coach, National Express and Megabus are worth checking out. However, it’s worth noting that coach services don’t often run as frequently as trains.

Please note: Whilst getting to the city can be quite straightforward, you will need to consider the journey length. If you’re only going on a York day trip, you won’t want to spend the whole time travelling. Set yourself a limit so you can enjoy a decent amount of time exploring!

How to spend a day in York:

8 am | walk the city walls.

On a nice day, walking the city walls is a great activity to partake in. Spanning approximately 3.4km long, you are able to admire views across much of the city from here. Some of the best spots offer amazing views of the minster which are definitely worth checking out!

9.30 AM | Take a stroll through The Shambles

Yorks iconic Shambles are visited by millions each year. With its unique buildings and a super medieval vibe, it’s no wonder! Taking a stroll through The Shambles is one of the best things to do in York. Plus, it’s 100% free. Winner!

Furthermore, The Shambles are home to some great stores. If you want to buy some gifts or fancy treating yourself to a souvenir, spend some time browsing before heading to your next stop!

Top tip: If you would prefer to see The Shambles without crowds, I recommend going before walking the city walls. This area gets super busy.

Read more: The Shambles, York | Everything you need to know

10.30 AM | Admire York Minster

Next, make your way from The Shambles towards York Minster via Low Petergate. From here, you will catch your first glimpse of the incredibly impressive York Minster. Upon arrival, spend some time checking out the beauty of this amazing building from all angles.

Afterwards, head inside to admire the interior. The minster boasts stunning stained glass windows and a charming ceiling that is well worth checking out. Lastly, book a trip up the tower to see York from above. From here you will see some of the best views of the city!

Top tip: Make sure you book a ticket for York Minster in advance, otherwise you may be left disappointed.

12 PM | Stop for lunch

After exploring all morning, you would have worked up an appetite. Stop for a relaxed lunch to discuss your day and enjoy one of Yorks best cafes or restaurants. There are a lot of options, but some of the most popular include:

• Betty’s Tea Rooms: For lovers of tea and cake! On the menu at Betty’s, you will find hot dishes, afternoon tea, sandwiches and cakes. They also have an extensive list of tea and coffee to choose from!
• FortyFive Vinyl Cafe: For music enthusiasts! FortyFive Vinyl Cafe is a combined eatery, vinyl store and live music venue. This makes it the ideal spot for lunch if you also fancy a nosy at their small collection of records! They sell tea, coffee and sandwiches that can be enjoyed whilst listening to music. How unique!
• The Grand: For those who just love afternoon tea! The Grand offers one of the best afternoon tea experiences in England. Serving up sandwiches, scones and sweet treats in a beautiful setting, diners will not be left disappointed!

1 PM | Climb Cliffords Tower

Built by William The Conqueror in 1068, Clifford’s Tower has become one of Yorks best attractions. You will discover the history behind this English Heritage site. Furthermore, there are also some great views overlooking the city from the top of the tower!

Please note: To get into Clifford’s Tower, there are a lot of steps to climb. Unfortunately, this means there is limited access for disabled people.

2 PM | Cruise down the River Ouse

Fancy seeing York from the water? Then make sure you head down to the River Ouse. From here, you can join a cruise that will send you on a tour of the city. Alternatively, you can also rent (and drive) your own boat for a more private experience. Either way, it’s a wonderfully unique way to explore York!

Please note: To my knowledge, 3 PM is the latest you can join a tour down the River Ouse. It is also the latest time available for self-drivers. Make sure you consider this if you decided to rearrange your itinerary.

3.30 PM | Admire St Marys Abbey

Next, head to St Marys Abbey to check out the ruins. Here you can spend some time photographing the Grade 1 listed building and enjoying your impressive surroundings.

4.30 PM | Go shopping!

If you’re a fan of shopping, York is a great place to visit! With a number of high street stores and independent shops, you can definitely spend an hour or two shopping for goodies! Some of the best indie shops include Botanic, Silvarious, and Give The Dog A Bone. They offer a range of great products which makes these stores 100% worth a browse if you have time to kill!

6.30 PM | Treat your tastebuds at Skosh!

As one of the best restaurants in York, Skosh is a must for any food enthusiast! Offering British dishes mixed with global influence, this York gem serves tasty small dishes and snacks that are highly rated amongst diners! Lastly, Skosh also serves up wine, beers and a range of cocktails.

If you’re visiting with your better half, dining at Skosh is one of the most romantic things to do in York !

Top tip: Skosh is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Additionally, the restaurant has varied opening hours each day. Make sure you check the times ahead of making a booking!

8 PM | Stop for some cocktails

Afterwards, it’s time to enjoy some cocktails! Rest your feet whilst enjoying a drink or two at some of Yorks best bars. Some firm favourites include Bobo Lobo and Evil Eye Lounge .

9 PM | Wander down The Shambles at night

Last up, you can’t leave York without experiencing The Shambles after dark! As night falls, this iconic York street looks even more magical than it does during the day! Make sure you leave yourself enough time to check it out. 10 out of 10 would recommend it!

9.30 PM | Head home!

After a jam-packed York day trip, it’s now time to head home. You will likely feel tired but grateful for such a great day of exploring one of England’s best cities! Spend your journey home planning your next adventure to make yet more incredible memories!

Top tip: If you are travelling via public transport, make sure you check your route home ahead of time. You will need to be aware of the last services if you end up wanting to stay in the city for longer!

Things to know before taking a York day trip:

The city is extremely photogenic.

York is full of amazing photo opportunities. Make sure you carry a camera (or phone) with enough storage space and battery to last the whole day. If you don’t, you may regret it.

There is a lot to see

There are a lot of things to see and do in York. It’s impossible to do it all in a single day. However, you can check off the attractions that interest you best. To make the most out of your time in the city, decide on your itinerary beforehand. That way, you won’t waste a second!

York is budget friendly

York is a great place for budget travellers to explore. In fact, you could easily spend a whole day in York without spending any money. All you need to do is pack some food and take advantage of the many free things to do in the city!

Read more: Free things to do in York, Yorkshire

You’ll be doing a lot of walking

York is a very walkable city. The most popular attractions are all within walking distance of each other. Due to this, you will likely rack up a lot of steps. For maximum comfort, make sure you wear trainers or flat shoes . That way, your feet won’t get too sore!

York is popular for a reason!

With so many cool things to check out, there’s no surprise that York gets very busy. Millions of tourists flock to the city each year to admire The Shambles, check out York Minster and walk the city walls. Of course, this means the streets are often crowded. However, it’s crowded for a reason. York is one of the best places to explore in England!

If you have more than a day in York, Yorkshire:

With longer than a day in York, you can hit up some of the city’s lesser-known tourist hotspots. Attractions such as The Jorvik Viking Centre, The Chocolate Story and The National Railway Museum are definitely worth considering. Furthermore, you can head out early and hit up the city’s Instagram locations before the crowds arrive.

Lastly, spending longer than a day in York requires overnight accommodation. Elmbank Hotel and Lodge is the perfect spot if you wish to enjoy a little bit of luxury!

Has this post helped you plan your ideal York day trip? If so, please share your experience in the comments below!

Like this post? Then pin it!

Lauren Allen

After experiencing her first solo adventure overseas soon after graduating from university, Lauren has discovered a love of solo travel. The countries she visits often fuel ideas for her art and design work, which along with travel tips and guides, she loves to share with other like-minded art and travel enthusiasts on this blog.

You May Also Like

The very best things to do in york, yorkshire (with map), the very best cocktail bars in lincoln, england, 15 things to do in bibury, cotswolds: don’t miss number 4, visiting york minster: the cities most beautiful building | pack and paint.

[…] Read more: How to spend a day in York […]

York Photography: 20+ Photos that will convince you to visit! | Pack and Paint

[…] Read more: York day trip | How to spend a day in York […]

5 unusual things to do in York beyond the tourist hotspots! | Pack and Paint

[…] 10 minutes away from the main train station, it’s a convenient spot to grab some food on a York day trip. Serving up sandwiches, sweet treats and freshly baked scones, you are bound to enjoy afternoon tea […]

The very best things to do in York, Yorkshire (with map) | Pack and Paint

Leave a comment cancel comment.

How to plan the perfect day trip to York – and everything you need to know when you get there

If you are planning a trip to England, then you really do need to plan to spend at least 1 day in York. It’s one of the most fascinating cities in England due to its history. This history is kept alive through the astonishing preservation of its buildings, streets, and shops. It is also one of our favourite places in England, where you feel that after your day trip to York, like you have been walking around in a Harry Potter book.  Here is our day in York itinerary to help you plan your own visit to this historic city.

Disclaimer:

This post contains affiliate links, so if you use these links to buy something we may earn a commission, at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.

Some Background on York

Is a day in york enough, when to plan your day trip to york, one day in york- getting there, day trip to york – must have items, getting around during your day in york,  york minster, york city walls, the shambles, the york dungeon, york river cruise,  the golden fleece, clifford’s tower,  york museum gardens,  national rail museum,  york cat trail, ghost tours, jorvik viking centre, york chocolate story, york day trip- an itinerary, afternoon tea, tea and scones, evening river cruise, self drive boat ride, how much money for a day trip to york, tips for planning your day trip to york, do i need the york city pass for my day trip to york, so should i do a day trip to york.

Before we get to our top tips for spending a day in York, here is a little bit of background on the city.

York is located in the North of England, in the county of North Yorkshire. It’s had a long and gruesome history which includes ancient Romans and Viking settlements.

The city was founded by the Romans in about 71 AD, and it’s city walls are still in relatively good condition. It also has a 13th Century gothic cathedral, York Minster, with two functioning bell towers.

Over 8 million tourists visit York every year, and it’s honestly not hard to see why. It’s filled with incredible attractions, ancient architecture, quirky shops, and great food. Oh and it is supposed to be one of the most haunted places in Europe with over 500 hauntings recorded here.

You might be wondering if a day in York is enough? In all honesty you can cover a lot of ground and see a lot on a day trip to York. York is relatively small, and fortunately a lot of the tourist attractions are within walking distance of each other.

That being said if you do have the time then 2 days is probably ideal. This gives you more time to see all the attractions, and more importantly (in our opinion anyway!) a chance to explore the pubs and chow down on some traditional pub grub. You can also do a spooky evening ghost tour!

When you only have a day in York, you obviously want to visit when the weather is at its best. June to September is great because the days are brighter and the weather is warmer not to mention drier. This is perfect especially because you will want to do a lot of walking and exploring.

If winter is your only chance to visit don’t be put off as you can still plan an exciting day trip to York. There are a number of museums to visit if it is raining, and you can always warm up in a nice cosy pub. Also there is something a little more atmospheric about visiting York on a cold foggy day.

One thing that we would say is avoid planning your day in York over the summer school holidays (August). It does get really busy and can be hard to get in to certain restaurants. If you are visiting at this time though, make sure you book attractions in advance. And if you are wanting to visit any restaurants again book these in advance.

We should also add that if you are planning a day trip to York, you might be best trying to plan this mid week instead of a weekend. Weekends in York get really busy, and you will find yourself having to wait for tables at restaurants, and tourist attractions.

Wondering when the  best and worst time to visit England  is as a whole? Here is a helpful guide.

The easiest way to get to York is by train. We travelled from Manchester to York and it was approximately 1 and a half hours each way. From Manchester there are several regular trains throughout the day. Make sure you book in advance to get the cheapest fares.

If your day trip to York is being planned as part of a UK road trip, driving to York is relatively easy. It is located pretty much in the middle of London and Edinburgh , making it accessible from most major UK cities.

If you are driving, the York park and ride options are probably the best to save you from having to drive into York city centre. There are a number of places you can go and park your car, and then hop on a bus into York centre.

For more information you can have a look at the following website . We’ve done a day trip to York quite a few times and this is worth it if you are driving. The buses are pretty frequent and it saves you the hassle of navigating the small streets of York.

For the perfect day trip to York here are our recommendations of must have items to bring with you.

• Decent walking shoes. With cobbled streets, and long scenic walks around the city walls you will need a good pair of shoes when you visit.
• Sun cream in the summer – especially if you plan to walk a lot.
• Rainwear – unfortunately it does rain quite a bit in England
• A good jacket, ideally rainproof.
• A portable phone charger- trust us you will take that many photos you will need it!
• A decent day bag for carrying essentials.

York is a pretty walkable city, so the best way to get around during your day in York is to walk. Most of the main attractions are in the centre, and walking is perfect because you get to experience the cobbled back streets, and soak in all the sights and sounds of the city.

Another good option is to go for a hop on hop off bus tour. Tickets are valid for 24 hours and the bus stops at all the main sights. Also you get the advantage of seeing York from the top of a double decker bus, and with a knowledgeable guide. Tickets can be purchased online in advance .

York in a day- Things to do

Here are some of the top things to do during your York day trip. It is certainly possible to do most things on the list during your day in York, just make sure you wear some decent shoes because your feet will get tired.

You cannot visit York without visiting this architectural beauty. York Minster is the largest gothic cathedral in Northern Europe. It was completed in 1472 which is a fact so mind boggling to think about, particularly when you are standing on the cathedral floor looking at the intricacy of the building.

Admission to York Minster is £10 but if you pay an extra £5 you also get to visit the tower. Just be warned it’s a long walk with 275 stairs, and very little space to rest. If you do make it to the top though you will be rewarded with an incredible view. That is of course once you have caught your breath.

If you want to know more about York Minster but in particular York Minster Tower then we have a blog post especially for you.

When planning a day trip to York one of the highlights has to the city walls. Dating back to Roman times they were used to defend the city from attack. York has more walls intact than any other city in England, although the walls have had substantial changes made to them since Roman times.

The walls visible today are estimated to have replaced the Roman walls in the 14th century. If you wanted to walk the entire length this would take around 2 hours. If you are pressed for time we recommend walking between Bootham Bar and Monk Bar. You get some amazing views of York Minster as well as a chance to look at some amazing gardens.

No day trip to York is complete without a visit to The Shambles. This is probably the busiest street in York and it is not hard to see why. The picturesque buildings dating back to the 15th century appear to lean over the cobbled streets to almost meet in the middle.

Historically the street was filled with butchers shops and houses. Now though you will find some quirky shops and bakeries. It’s a beautiful place to walk around, although it is best enjoyed at a slow pace.

The York Dungeon is a great way to learn all about the history of York, in a more interactive way. You will journey through over 2000 years of York’s history from Vikings, to highwaymen and even learn about Guy Fawkes and his famous gunpowder plot.

I’m someone who is pretty much scared of their own shadow so this tour is not for me at all. You go between rooms and actors jump out at certain times adding a more thrilling experience. For me it’s terrifying, for others it’s fun – so if you aren’t scared go for it. You can book your tickets here , and be prepared to be scared!

A river cruise is a unique way to see York. The tour usually lasts about an hour, and it allows you view the city in style whilst cruising up the River Ouse. You will learn all about the sights, with the onboard commentary, and there is also a bar so you can chill out whilst learning all about York. The cruise is really popular so do book your tickets online in advance .

If you are like us then you probably don’t need an excuse to go to the pub on holiday. The really cool thing about the Golden Fleece though is that it was built on stilts without any real foundations. Which explains the strange angles and nooks when you enter the pub. Oh and did I mention it is also the most haunted pub in York ?

The Golden Fleece dates back to 1503 and there have allegedly been several ghost sightings. Thankfully we didn’t spy anything supernatural during our visit. It is a very small pub so it can be hard to get a table to sip your pint. There is also a restaurant out the back that serves your basic pub style lunches.

Built upon a large mound York Castle or Clifford’s Tower  has had its share of brutal and bloody history. These days you can climb to the viewing platform and get some amazing views of York and especially of York Minster. It is also a lot less strenuous of a climb than York Minster so if you are looking for an alternative then this is a must visit.

Another must on your York day trip is to take a leisurely walk around the museum gardens. Located in the surrounds of the medieval ruins of St Mary’s Abbey the gardens are at their best in Spring when the flowers are in full bloom.

A day in York is not complete without a visit to the National Rail Museum. Entry to the museum is free, and it brilliantly tells the story of rail travel in Britain. From peeking inside the carriages of royalty to observing the history of British rail, I have to admit this museum is actually kind of cool. It is also very conveniently located next to the train station so it’s a great place to visit before getting the train back to wherever you need to go.

One of the quirkiest things I noticed about York were the statues of cats located on some of the buildings. You can pick up a guide at the Cat Gallery shop, which as you can probably guess is a shop devoted solely to our feline friends. Cats have played a big part in York’s history and if you look carefully you will find 18 of them dotted around the city. It’s actually a fun way to explore some of the streets of York.

So this one might be more suited to those of you that have more than a day in York. If you are staying the night make sure you get yourself booked on a York City ghost tour. There are so many to choose from, and whilst they can be a little spooky they are also really interesting too. You get to learn about the history of York, as well as gaining an insight into some of the more gruesome stories of the past. You even have an option to do a ghost bus tour.

York has a very rich viking history and the best place to learn about this is the Jorvik Viking Centre . It’s essentially a museum that explains the viking history of York, and is very education for adults and children alike.

One of our favourite things about York, is the fact that it has such a strong connection to chocolate. If you want to learn all about the founding confectionery families, sample some chocolate, and learn all about how chocolate is made – the York Chocolate Story is for you.

There are also several different chocolate making classes you can do in the city through various providers. So if you want to make your own chocolate on your day trip to York you are in luck.

Here is a sample itinerary for your day in York to help you plan your own trip.

Once you arrive in York we recommend visiting York Minster as early as possible. It can get really busy and particularly if you are looking to climb to the top you will need to book this for an allocated time. Once you are done head over to Bootham Bar and walk the city walls to Monk Bar. Spend the remainder of the morning exploring The Shambles and grab some lunch here. After lunch make sure you stop by the Golden Fleece for a quick drink before continuing your day.

After lunch take a walk to Cliffords Tower to enjoy the views of the city from here. Once you are done head back towards The Shambles and grab some afternoon tea. Keep an eye out for the Cat Trail along the way and see if you can spot any statues. Take a walk to the Museum Gardens for a bit of a stroll before heading to the National Rail Museum. The good thing about the museum is that it is so close to the train station, so a great place to end your York day trip.

Eating during your day trip to York

If you are lover of comfort food you will absolutely love York. Food is honestly one of the best things about any day trip to York.

For starters you can walk around The Shambles and stumble upon fish and chips, roast pork rolls, Yorkshire puddings, as well as bakeries with fresh sourdough and earl grey teacakes.

We also stumbled upon a bakery that sold the most exquisite brownies we have ever tasted. It was definitely much needed energy after all the walking and climbing. Like I said before York is a comfort foodies paradise and you will certainly find something delicious during your day in York.

You cannot do a day trip to York without having some afternoon tea. There are several tea houses in York with the most popular being Betty’s . It is somewhat an institution in these parts with people lining up in the street to get a table. You are best off trying for Betty’s mid week as there are less crowds.

Betty’s is a real British tea experience, and you can choose some delicious desserts to go with your hot brew. The desserts are so indulgent and mouthwatering, so do give them a try.

If your plans for Betty’s fails never fear because there are a number of quirky tea houses in York. A lot of independent traders do tea and scones, and other sweet treats, so make sure you have a good look around. Seriously what could be more British than sipping tea whilst munching on some home made scones?

Romantic things to add to your day in York

If you are lucky enough to be visiting York with your significant other here are some of the more romantic things to add to your day in York.

An evening river cruise is definitely one of the more romantic things to add to your day in York. Not only do you get to experience York from a different perspective but you can sail along the River Ouse with floodlights guiding you along. You also get a glass of Prosecco to add to the fun.

Another slightly more romantic thing to add to your day in York is to book a self drive boat trip down the River Ouse. If you want to spice it up a bit you can pack yourself a picnic to nibble on as you enjoy the city sights from the water.

You might be wondering how much money you will need for your day trip to York. Overall we think York is one of the more expensive cities in the UK, although it is still cheaper than  London . The county of Yorkshire is generally a cheaper part of the country, but prices in York are higher due to the booming tourist trade.

In terms of spending money you should budget around £100 per person for a day in York. This will include tourist attractions, food and drink, and souvenirs. This price will of course increase or decrease based on your own spending habits.

You probably won’t need accommodation if you are only spending a day in York, but in case you do, expect to pay somewhere between £120 – £150 per night. This is for mid range accommodation located in the centre of York.

Here are some final tips for planning your day in York.

• Dress for the weather, and be prepared for rain!
• Book tours in advance particularly during peak season.
• Also book any restaurants in advance including Betty’s.
• York is pretty walkable but make sure you have decent shoes.
• Double check if there are any horse races on before you go as it will be crowded.

If you are planning to visit a lot of museums, and do a hop on, hop off bus tour than it might be worth splurging and buying a York City Pass. This is particularly useful if you are spending a full 24 hours in York. The pass gives you options to visit museums and attractions such as York Minster, York Dungeon, Castle Howard & The North York Moors Railway.

If it is just a day trip to York that you are planning the pass may not be economical – but you can have a look at the link below for more information to see if this will be useful for your day trip to York.

Hopefully you have read this article and you have no doubt about whether you should do a day trip to York. But here is a friendly recap.

York is such a magical city, and it really is somewhere you have to visit if you are in England. It’s one of the most beautiful and historic cities in the country, and it will enchant you from the moment you step foot in it.

If you do only have a day in York you can see a lot as long as you plan it right. Book your activities in advance, and make sure you have a plan in terms of what you want to see.

We hope you enjoy your day trip to York.

If you are looking for more beautiful places in the UK then these posts might just inspire you.

1 day Chester Itinerary

Liverpool weekend itinerary

And if you found this post useful you can pin it for later.

Happy Travels!

Wanderlust and Life is a blog for those that love to travel.

Similar Posts

A romantic weekend at Fallen Angel in Cornwall- a review

Every so often you stay somewhere so magical that it leaves a lasting impression on you. From that sheer excitement as you drop your bags down and check out every nook and cranny, to that sadness you feel as you pack your bags and close that door for the last time. Last weekend we got…

A 5 day Ukraine itinerary with everything you need to know about visiting

Ukraine has recently been attacked by Russian Forces. Russia is committing genocide in Ukraine. After we win the war hopefully you will come back and see how beautiful Ukraine really is! Glory to Ukraine. Glory to the heroes! Ukraine has been on our bucket list for a very long time and for me it has…

1 day in Bergamo: Everything you need to know to plan the perfect day trip

Are you planning a day trip to Bergamo, and want to know the best things to see and do? In this article I detail everything you need to know about planning the perfect trip to this hidden Italian gem of a city. And honestly it has a bit of everything, great food, gorgeous architecture, and…

The most Instagrammable places in London and how to get to each one

London has to be one of the most exciting cities in the world. With so much to see and do it also means there is so much to photograph. London truly is an Instagrammer’s dream. Finding good photography spots in London is easy. For starters, there is the fantastic architecture, the colourful shops, and don’t…

A 1 day Budapest itinerary: How to get the most out of 1 day in Budapest

So you only have 1 day in Budapest, well this article is all about making the most of your short time in the city. You might not be able to see absolutely everything but you can make a good go of it. Whether you are on a day trip to Budapest, are visiting as part…

Paris vs London: Which European capital is better for my next holiday

Are you planning a trip to Europe and wondering if Paris or London is the better city to visit? In this guide we do a side by side comparison on everything you need to know including costs, attractions, safety, and much more. So here is a complete guide to Paris vs London. Disclaimer: This post contains…

This is great 🙂 it brought back memories of my trip to York, I can’t wait to go back. Very interesting about the cats I never knew about that x https://shivvywrites.wordpress.com/2016/12/30/a-day-in-york/

Yeah I had no idea about the cats either, and though it was really cool.

A chocolate scone?! How have I never come across that before, sounds amazing! Betty’s is pretty special but I agree – not convinced it’s worth the queues and the prices, all things considered.

How fascinating about the cats, too! Something I will definitely be looking out for next time I’m in York. ?

Totally agree about Betty’s. And obviously that chocolate scone completely made up for it as well. Haha.

Comments are closed.

Is York Worth Visiting? 21 Best Things to Do & Reasons to Visit

Are you wondering, “is York worth visiting in 2023”? This guide will help you decide if you’re considering a trip to York in the UK. We’ll cover some of the city’s top attractions and things to do, where to stay, and how to get around.

I’ve lived in Yorkshire for almost a decade and visit York frequently, so I have the inside track on what’s worth seeing and doing in this incredible medieval city.

By the end of this post, you should have a good idea of whether or not York is right for your next vacation.

Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!

Grey Globetrotters Travel Blog contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See my  disclaimer  for more information.

Is York Worth Visiting In 2023?

In a nutshell, YES! York is a superb city to visit!!

With many historical attractions, Harry Potter connections, and iconic British landmarks, York is a great place to visit .

This is especially true if you’re a history buff or love exploring cities rather than venturing out in the rugged outdoors, though the wild and beautiful North York Moors are not far from the city centre for a memorable day trip.

As the capital city of the North Yorkshire region, York is a charming city in the heart of North Yorkshire, often overlooked by travellers on their way to bigger and more famous destinations around England.

Save $$$ With The York Pass

Save money on entry to top York attractions, including York Minster, York City Cruises, JORVIK Viking Centre, York Dungeon, and more with the York City Pass !

Visitors to this historic city are rewarded with unique experiences that simply can’t be found anywhere else. From exploring the winding medieval alleyways of the Shambles to sampling Fat Rascals at Bettys Tea Rooms, York has something for everyone.

So, if you’re still pondering “is York worth visiting”, we can confidently say it’s fabulous!

21 Best Things to Do and See in York in 2023

This historic British city – the land of Vikings and Romans, Kings, chocolate and stunning architecture – has so much to offer. Here are some of York’s top tourist attractions and things we recommend you do while visiting York:

1. Visit York Minster

This stunning 12th-century cathedral dominates York’s skyline and is a must-see when visiting the city.

With its intricate stonework and stunning stained glass windows, it’s no wonder this place – the largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe – attracts over 2 million visitors every year.

Pro Tip: A tower tour is a great way to enjoy the best views over the centre of York. You’ll need to get there early and book your tour when you arrive , as this is one of the most popular things to do in York, and places fill up fast!

2. Go on a ghost walk

York has a reputation as one of the UK’s most haunted cities, so why not embrace it? Take a ghost tour to around some of the spookiest locations in town – just don’t forget your garlic.

3. Take a Scenic River Cruise

A leisurely cruise down the River Ouse in central York is the ideal way to see some of the city’s main attractions from a different perspective. Pick from a scenic daytime cruise or a romantic and atmospheric evening cruise .

4. Explore Clifford’s Tower

The only remaining part of William the Conqueror’s magnificent York Castle, Clifford’s Tower has played many roles throughout history.

Since Roger de Clifford built it, this tower has been a royal mint, prison, and even an air raid shelter during World War II – but today, it stands tall as one of York’s most iconic landmarks.

5. York Castle Museum

Centuries before Buckingham Palace became the official residence for British monarchs, King John lived in the secure keep at York Castle. While the castle is long ruined, you can learn about a thousand years of York’s turbulent history at York Castle Museum.

6. Jorvik Viking Centre

Step back in time at Jorvik to the 9th century when England fell to the Vikings, and York became a vital settlement – becoming the second largest British city of the time.

7. The York Chocolate Story

Learn about York’s role in bringing chocolate to the world in this interactive and engaging museum. You can also make your own chocolate treats at the end of your tour before browsing the gift shop for delicious handmade chocolates to take home!

8. Head down to the York Cold War Bunker

Uncover Britain’s Cold War’s secret and chilling history at the most modern English Heritage property. Walk through the blast-proof doors to investigate the more unusual side of York’s heritage.

In active use from the 1960s to the 1990s, the bunker was a nerve centre to monitor any fallout from a nuclear attack. 

9. Discover the city’s gruesome past at York Dungeon

Walk through 2,000 years of York’s history and meet famous characters from York’s dark past, including Vikings and Guy Fawkes! The York Castle dungeon will make you laugh and scream!

10. Take a stroll on top of the medieval city walls

It’s not every day that you can walk on ancient fortifications with Roman origins. York City Walls are approximately 2 miles long and offer breathtaking city views. It’s an excellent opportunity to work off your afternoon tea and one of the most popular free things to do in York!

11. Visit the Shambles

The Shambles is one of the most famous streets in England, and for good reason too! With its narrow cobbled streets and overhanging timber-framed buildings dating back as far as the 14th century.

12. Take afternoon tea at Betty’s Tea Rooms

For something quintessentially British, look no further than Betty’s Tea Rooms .

This charming cafe has served traditional afternoon tea since 1919 and offers everything from scones with clotted cream to dainty finger sandwiches – all served on fine china and crisp white linen tablecloths.

13. Go trainspotting in style at the National Railway Museum

A short walk from York train station will take you to this cavernous Yorkshire museum, which has over 100 examples of rolling stock, including a carriage made for Queen Victoria . The main attraction is the famous Flying Scotsman train .

With free entry , visiting the National Railway Museum is one of the first things many families like to do on a day trip to York – perfect if it’s raining!

14. Have a pint at one of the many historic pubs in York

Ye Olde Starre Inn pub claims to be the oldest licensed premises in York (dating back to 1644), so it’d be rude not to stop by for a drink. The interior is cosy and full of character – just what you’d expect from such an ancient establishment.

Other characterful pubs in York include the wonderfully eccentric House of the Trembling Madness , the Evil Eye , and the historical Guy Fawkes Inn near York Minster, where the pub food is excellent.

15. Find all the cats on the York Cat Trail

Cat lovers will find York worth a visit, as cats have been symbols of luck for centuries in the city. You’ll soon see that many properties sport feline decorations.

The popularity of cats in York dates to the days of timber houses, when vermin carried diseases, including plague, and could destroy entire buildings by knawing at the wood. Cats were kept to ward off evil spirits and keep rats at bay!

You can download the lucky cat trail map here .

16. Check out the York Roman Baths

Pop into the Roman Bath Museum in York to discover the Roman roots of this old city . You will see the Tepidarium (warm room), Caldarium (hot steam room), and Frigidarium (cold plunge room) used by occupying Roman forces two thousand years ago!

Pro Tip : It’s easy to spot this small museum on your first day in York, as it’s located beneath the Roman Bath Pub!

17. Have a flutter at York Race Course

Going to the races in York has been popular since the time of Roman Emperor Severus, however, the city did not fully support horse racing until 1530!

Today, York is one of the premier racecourses in Yorkshire, rated top in The Times newspaper survey of all Britain’s racecourses. So, if you fancy getting dressed up, sipping a glass of bubbly and watching some of the best horseracing in the country, check the racing fixtures here .

Pro Tip: For the best deal on entry tickets to 20 of York’s top tourist attractions, we recommend you buy a York City Pass . You’ll save a ton of time and money compared to buying separate admission tickets!

There we have it, folks; seventeen fantastic things to do whilst exploring beautiful York – one of the top attractions in North Yorkshire!

Where is York?

York is located in Northern England, in the large, rural county of North Yorkshire. The city is around 2 1/2 hours from London by train and 3 hours from Edinburgh by train.

What is York famous for?

York is best known for its magnificent 12th century Minster – the largest gothic cathedral in Northern Europe. It’s also regarded as the most haunted city in Europe.

Chocolate was the most significant industry in York until recently, with almost every family in the city connected to the world-famous chocolate brands.

York is also known for the huge number of pubs in the city, many of which are quirky and historical, including the Guy Fawkes Inn, where Guy Fawkes was born in the shadow of York Minster, and the Golden Fleece, which is reputed to be the most haunted pub in York 💀

🥃 Best Pub Tour in York

Visit the most fascinating pubs in York, with a knowledgeable local guide on this Guided Historic Pub Tour .

Foodies will love a trip to the medieval Shambles, where foods from around the globe await hungry visitors. If you’re wondering, “what food is York famous for?” the answer is the Yorkshire pudding !

If time allows, putting on your finery for a day out at the York races or taking a day trip to the North Yorkshire Coast is a must.

A few more reasons why York is worth visiting include the historic (and reputedly haunted) Treasurer’s House and the Merchant Adventurers Hall – the oldest guildhall in Great Britain.

York is a bustling, active city that will not disappoint visitors.

Best Time To Visit York United Kingdom

The best times to visit York are Easter, during the summer when the weather is warm and pleasant, Halloween, and Christmastime.

Spring is the perfect time to enjoy Cherry Blossom in the city – look out for the beautiful trees below the City Wall by the train station and those near York Minster.

Summer is ideal for romantic picnics in St. Mary’s Abbey’s ruins, riverside strolls, and river cruises. Hiring one of York’s little red boats for a potter along the river is fun.

York is certainly worth visiting for Halloween , with plenty of ghost tours to pick from. The leaves will be changing colour, and the nights drawing in, and while the real chill of winter won’t have arrived yet, you’ll want to dress warmly.

Christmas in York is spectacular, with award-winning festive markets, pretty lights and an unbeatable ambience. If you want to experience the magic of a carol service at York Minster (and you really should), you’ll need to book early, as these events sell out fast. Consider staying a few extra days to really soak it all in.

No matter when you visit, York is a fabulous city that’s always bustling with activities.

How Many Days In York Is Enough?

You could easily spend a week in York and still find things to do. However, 3-4 days are enough to see the city’s main sights if you’re short on time.

If you only have one day to spare, a single day in York is doable. We recommend buying a one-day York City Pass and focusing on the city centre to see the most highly-rated attractions.

The most popular things to do during one day in York include:

• Walking along the City Walls from the train station to Bootham Bar
• Exploring York Minster (don’t forget to book the tower tour when you arrive)
• Visiting Jorvik or the York Chocolate Story
• Finding somewhere to eat (Guy Fawkes pub or Gert’s Fish & Chips in the Shambles are great options)
• Wandering through the Shambles
• Climbing Clifford’s Tower for superb city views
• Taking an evening river cruise for incredible views of the city at sunset, or going on a spooky ghost walk

Where To Stay In York

York has great accommodation options within the city and nearby. For a hotel close to the city’s main tourist attractions, you’ll want to stay in the centre of York to make the most of the best restaurants, shopping, and nightlife options.

Our favourite hotel in York is the Grand Hotel . This luxury 5 star hotel offers a peaceful oasis of calm and refinement after a day of city exploration. The Grand Hotel is a very short walk from York train station, with fabulous views of the city walls.

➡️ Top Luxury York Hotel: Grand Hotel ➡️ Top Mid-Budget York Hotel: The Dean Court ( 200m from York Minster )

How To Get Around York

Getting around York on foot or by bicycle is easy, and the city’s bus system is efficient. You should avoid driving into the city centre, as the streets are congested, and parking is expensive .

If you stay in the city centre, most places are within walking distance; however, if you want the freedom to explore more of North Yorkshire, renting a car or looking at guided tours are good options.

FAQs – Is York Worth Visiting

This collection of questions people often ask should help you plan your trip if you’re still asking yourself the question “is York worth visiting?”:

What is the York Pass?

The York Pass includes admission to York Minster, City Cruises York, JORVIK Viking Centre, The York Dungeon, Van Gogh Immersive Experience, York City Sightseeing, and much more! Each York Pass also comes with a free 24 Hour hop-on hop-off bus tour plus a choice of three pasta or pizza dishes at ASK Italian Restaurant, York.

Is the York Pass worth it?

Yes, the cost of a York Pass is less than the cost of individual admission charges to the city’s main tourist attractions.

How far is York from London?

York is around 220 miles from London. Driving from London to York takes around 4 hours (depending on traffic conditions), whereas the London to York train journey takes from 2 to 3 hours.

How many days do you need in York?

While you can see some of the most popular tourist attractions in one day, York is worth visiting for 3 to 4 days to see more of the city.

Is York a good city break?

Yes, York is one of the best city breaks in the UK, thanks to the wide variety of things for visitors to do, and the high quality of accommodation and restaurants in the city.

Is there a lot to do in York?

York is packed with things to do and see. Whether you love history and culture, independent shops, romantic breaks, city cruises or great pubs and restaurants for evenings out, York has plenty to offer!

Is York a walkable city?

The historic city centre is best explored on foot. It’s compact and very walkable.

Is a day in York enough?

Is York worth visiting for one day? Absolutely! If you only have one day to spare, you can get a good introduction to York in one day, and see a number of the main attractions, as they are all located close together.

Is York a cheap city?

In general, York is far less expensive than many other UK cities, such as London and Edinburgh; however, one person’s idea of cheap can be another’s idea of expensive!

Is York a beautiful city?

York is stunning and worth visiting for the Instagram-worthy sights at every turn. Don’t forget to charge your phone/camera fully to take plenty of photos!

Can you get around York without a car?

Absolutely! In fact, you should try to avoid driving into the city and use public transport instead, as York is a small city, and it’s easy to get around on foot or by bike. If you visit York for the first time, a guided walking tour will help you get your bearings around the narrow streets and historical landmarks.

Is York a friendly city?

Absolutely, Yorkshire folk are very welcoming and friendly.

Is York a safe city?

York is one of the safest cities to visit in the UK and a brilliant tourist destination.

Is York cheaper than London?

In a word, yes! The cost of living in “the north” is considerably lower than it is in London, and this means you’ll pay less for hotels, restaurants and more in York.

Was Harry Potter filmed in York?

York station was a film location for Harry Potter; however, the Shambles was NOT the film location for Diagon Alley (although it REALLY should have been!). There are plenty of fabulous Harry Potter themed stores in York to keep any Potterheads happy though, including the Shop That Must Not Be Named.

Is Diagon Alley based on the Shambles in York?

While JK Rowling confirmed on Twitter that Diagon Alley was not based on any location in the UK, we think that the Shambles is exactly what she had in mind, with it’s quirky winding streets, ancient buildings and incredible atmosphere.

What cities are near York?

The nearest cities to York are Leeds , Bradford, Sheffield , Manchester and Edinburgh.

Is York a safe night out?

York is a popular and safe city for a night out. As many of the city’s streets are cobbled, you’ll probably not want to wear high heeled shoes though!

Is York Minster worth visiting?

Absolutely yes! It’s one of the most beautiful and most ancient cathedrals in the world and one of the York must see places.

Look out for the incredible Rose Window and the beautiful “Heart of Yorkshire” window when you visit.

How many people visit York a year?

According to Make it York , over 8 million people visit York each year, contributing almost £800 million to the local economy. York loves visitors!

Conclusion: Is York Worth Visiting?

If you’re looking for a charming and historic city with plenty of unique attractions and much history, York is worth visiting. It’s one of the UK’s best cities for a long weekend break.

This beautiful city has something for everyone, from the ancient York walls and stunning Minster to quirky shops and lively pubs. And let’s not forget the delicious food !

Just make sure you bring your walking shoes (or rent a bike) to explore all York offers.

Love It? Pin Is York Worth Visiting For Later

Related Posts

4 Must-Visit Cities in Yorkshire For Your UK Bucket List

The Best Time To Visit York in 2024 (From A Local) 🗓️

19 Fun & Unusual Things To Do In York, UK (From A Local)

York Minster Tower: How To Visit & Is It Worth The Climb?

How To Have The Best London to York Day Trip: Tips From a Local

Whispering Walls: Discover the 7 Best Ghost Walks in York 👻

Coralie Thornton, the owner and author of Grey Globetrotters, has been a traveller for more than four decades. Her passion for adventure has led her through over 40 countries, seeking cultural experiences, delicious foods, and hidden gems. Today, she helps others experience the UK, Europe, Egypt and China, with meticulously crafted travel itineraries and affordable luxury travel guides.

Donald and Melania Trump, Don Jr., Eric, Ivanka, Tiffany: Which weddings included Mar-a-Lago

When did donald & melania trump get married jan. 25, 2005, at bethesda-by-the-sea episcopal church with wedding reception at mar-a-lago in palm beach, florida..

• Billionaire Donald Trump & model Melania Knauss held an extravagant star-studded wedding with guests like Hillary Clinton, Matt Lauer, Rudy Giuliani.
• Melania Knauss began her modeling career at age 16 and moved to New York in 1996. She met Trump 2 years later at a fashion party. They married in 2005.
• Barron Trump, the sole child of Donald and Melania Trump, has half-siblings Donald Trump Jr., Eric Trump, Ivanka Trump and Tiffany Trump.

Soon, Donald and Melania Trump will celebrate a milestone wedding anniversary. On Jan. 25, 2025, the former first couple will toast 20 years of marriage.

Twenty years ago, Donald Trump and then-fiancé Melania Knauss, her professional modeling name, were busy planning their lavish nuptials in Palm Beach, Florida − the wedding at Bethesda-By-the-Sea Episcopal Church, followed by a wedding reception in the new Donald J. Trump Ballroom at his private club .

Much has happened since the Trumps tied the knot; his third trip down the aisle and her first:

• They became parents to Barron Trump, who was born March 20, 2006.
• Donald Trump became the 45th president of the U.S. after the 2016 presidential election.
• Melania Trump was the first lady from 2017 to 2021.
• During their time in the White House, the Trump family dubbed Donald Trump's private club, Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, the Southern White House .

And a lot has happened to the wedding venue Mar-a-Lago since 2005: Several Trump family members were married or hosted wedding receptions there. Ahead of the milestone wedding anniversary of Donald and Melania Trump , here's a look at who (and who didn't) include Trump's private club Mar-a-Lago in their wedding nuptials.

What was Melania Trump's maiden name?

Melania Trump was born Melanija Knavs April 26, 1970 , in Novo Mesto, Slovenia, according to her bio on the White House Historical Association's website. As Melania Knauss, she began her modeling career at age 16 and moved to New York in 1996. Donald Trump met the model in 1998 at a New York fashion party, became engaged in 2004 and married in 2005.

Twenty years ago, Melania Knauss was just a bride-to-be, squeezing in wedding dress fittings, finalizing celebrity invites and reception dinner at Mar-a-Lago. Melania Knauss became Mrs. Donald Trump on a Saturday evening in January 2005.

Photos looking back at the wedding of Donald and Melania Trump

The photo gallery below is a look back at wedding preparations for Donald and Melania Trump and what we know about their Jan. 25, 2005, wedding, from archived photos and coverage of the Palm Beach Post , the Palm Beach Daily News and USA TODAY Network-Florida .

Where did Donald Trump Jr. get married?

On Nov. 12, 2005, Donald Trump Jr., the eldest son of Donald Trump and first wife Ivana Trump, married former model Vanessa Kay Trump, formerly Vanessa Kay Pergolizzi. Donald Trump introduced Donald Trump Jr. to Vanessa at a fashion show in 2003. The couple married at Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach in front of about 370 guests, reports show, with the service officiated by Donald Trump's sister, Judge Maryanne Trump Barry. Donald Trump Jr. and Vanessa Trump were 27 years old when they wed, weeks before they both turned 28 in December 2005.

Donald Trump Jr.'s siblings were in the wedding party: Ivanka Trump was a bridesmaid, and Eric Trump was a groomsman.

Vanessa and Donald Trump Jr. had five children together − Kai Trump , Donald Trump III, Tristan Trump, Spencer Trump and Chloe Trump − before they eventually divorced, after 12 years of marriage , in 2018.

Donald Trump Jr. is engaged to Kimberly Guilfoyle.

Where did Eric Trump and Lara Trump get married ?

On Nov. 8, 2014, after a six-year relationship, Lara Yunaska married Eric Trump in a ceremony at Mar-a-Lago. Eric Trump, then 30 and son of Donald Trump and his first wife, Ivana Trump, married the TV producer in a ceremony that included 450 guests and was held on the lawn of the Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida, USA TODAY reports in a November 2014 story .

Wedding guests included Eric Trump's mom Ivana Trump, radio personality Elvis Duran and former "Real Housewives of New York" star Jill Zarin, according to People magazine.

The family of Eric Trump's sister, Ivanka Trump, had roles in the wedding: Ivanka Trump's daughter was a flower girl and Ivanka Trump's husband, Jared Kushner, officiated at the wedding, according to the Daily News. The Daily Mail reports that Lara Trump's dog, Charlie, was the ring bearer.

Two weeks before her wedding to Eric Trump, the bride, Lara Yunaska, broke both of her wrists in a horse riding accident. She chose to wear Vera Wang — one gown for the ceremony and another for the reception.

Where did Ivanka Trump marry Jared Kushner?

On Oct. 25, 2009, Ivanka Trump, eldest daughter of Donald and Ivana Trump, married Jared Kushner, who previously owned the New York Observer. The 27-year-old bride and 28-year-old groom tied the knot at Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, New Jersey, in front of about 500 guests.

News reports show the guest list included celebrities such as Russell Crowe, Regis Philbin, Natalie Portman, Barbara Walters, Rudy Giuliani, Andrew Cuomo, country singer Jamey Johnson, Emmy Rossum and then-boyfriend Adam Duritz of the band Counting Crows.

Ivanka Trump wore a Vera Wang gown reminiscent of Princess Grace Kelly's wedding dress. Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner are parents to three children, Arabella Rose Kushner, Joseph Frederick Kushner and Theodore James Kushner.

Where did Tiffany Trump get married ?

On Nov. 12, 2022, Tiffany Trump and Michael Boulos were married at Donald Trump's private club Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida. More than 500 guests attended the wedding of the former president's youngest daughter, then 29, to the 25-year-old Lebanese-American billionaire. Tiffany Trump is the younger daughter of the former president and his second wife Marla Maples.

The couple, who got engaged after two years of dating, met in 2018, when Boulos was studying project management at City University of London and Tiffany Trump was a law student at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. Both were vacationing in Santorini and met in Mykonos at Lindsay Lohan's Beach Club, according to  People magazine .

Tiffany Trump announced her engagement to Boulos on her father's last day in office; her fiance proposed in the White House Rose Garden. In an homage to her husband's Lebanese heritage, the bride chose Lebanese designer Elie Saab to design her dress, according to the Palm Beach Daily News.

Three days before the wedding, Florida was in the path of Hurricane Nicole. The wedding occurred without issue from the storm.

They do! Tiffany Trump weds her billionaire boo at a glam shindig at Mar-a-Lago

Contributing: Shannon Donnelly, Palm Beach Daily News, and Ann Oldenburg, USA TODAY

Sangalang is a lead digital producer for USA TODAY Network-Florida. Follow her on  Twitter  or Instagram at  @byjensangalang . Support local journalism.  Consider subscribing to a Florida newspaper .

25 Best Day trips from NYC In 2024

Written By: The Planet D

United States

Updated On: July 9, 2024

New York City has no shortage of incredible  things to do . If you are planning a trip to the Big Apple, rest assured that you’ll have an exciting  itinerary  on your hands. But what about day trips from NYC? You can escape city life and explore the smaller country towns in the Hudson Valley or take a day trip to Philadelphia or Atlantic City. Whether you want hiking and biking trails or a glitzy day trip to a neighboring city, this guide will cover all the best day trips from NYC. Let’s dive straight in.

Table of Contents

Top Day Trips from NYC

New York is surrounded by fantastic day trip destinations, and Grand Central Station is just as functional as it is sightseeing-worthy. You could venture out using public transport like the train or Metro North or hire a rental car to visit somewhere off the beaten track.

1. Rockaway Beach

Rockaway Beach is a vast sandy beach on the outskirts of New York City . Its 5.5-mile boardwalk is a popular draw and, in summer, Rockaway Beach is the perfect spot to escape the city for beach volleyball or relaxing sunbathing. Visiting Rockaway Beach is easily a half-day activity, although you’ll probably want to stay longer. You can reach the beach in less than an hour by car, while public transport takes around an hour and a half.

Rockaway Beach is where to head on a day trip if you want a beach day, and it is a popular coastal getaway from New York City. The city can get stifling in summer, and this beach is a dreamy place to catch a coastal breeze and cool off in the waves.

• One hour from New York City

2. Philadelphia

New York City might be incredible, but you can still venture out to another nearby gem. Philadelphia is a city known for its history, and it sometimes feels like there is a national historical landmark at every corner. Liberty Bell is the most famous attraction in Philly and is considered a symbol of American Independence and civilian freedom. If you are interested in American history and politics, Philadelphia is the ideal day trip from NYC. Plus, you can catch public transport between the cities in just over an hour or drive between them in two hours.

Apart from Liberty Bell, you can visit Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the Museum of the American Revolution. For many reasons, visiting Philadelphia is a popular day trip from NYC. You can view our full guide on things to do in Philadelphia  here .

You can book this highly rated tour from NYC to Philadelphia and Washington DC . Check off seeing three of America’s best cities (including NYC) with this trip as you leave early in the morning from New York and visit the iconic landmarks of Phili and DC including the Lincoln Memorial, White House, the U.S. Capitol, and Independence Hall.

• Two hours from New York City

3. Bear Mountain State Park

A day trip to Bear Mountain is one for hiking and nature lovers. Bear Mountain is a 1289 foot (393-meter) high peak in the Hudson Highlands and is just a one-hour drive from the center of New York City. Visitors can drive up Perkins Memorial Drive for beautiful views over the highlands; even better, you only need half a day to do so. Bear Mountain is popular because it is a scenic but convenient hike just a stone’s throw from New York City. And we think you’ll love it.

Bear Mountain State Park has 5,000 acres to explore and besides its famous peak visitors can enjoy activities like boating, skiing, fishing, and more.

The Bear Mountain Loop Trail is 3.8 miles and has 1154 feet of elevation gain. It is a reasonably medium-difficulty route and takes just a few hours to complete. You start at a parking lot by Bear Mountain Inn and loop past Hessian Lake, quickly reaching stunning views over the Hudson River and the surrounding peaks. Be prepared for a bit of scrambling and pack some sturdy hiking boots; it is one of those nature trails you crave after a few days of city life.

If you want to see the Hudson Valley from above, book this helicopter tour where travelers get a taste of the New England fall foliage aboard a private helicopter over the Hudson Valley. 

4. Woodstock

Music lovers, you’ve probably heard of Woodstock. The town in Ulster County is set a two-hour drive from the city and is one of the best day trips from NYC. The town is famed for the Woodstock Festival of 1969, which was essentially a hippie get-together as people gathered to use music as an outlet for growing socio-political tensions. In the face of events such as the Vietnam War, Woodstock Festival was a message of peace and unity.

Today, Woodstock is still famous for its music and art. You can stop by the Woodstock Artists Association and Museum or embrace nature at the Woodstock Waterfall Park. While the original Woodstock Festival was located on a nearby farm, many people also treat visiting Woodstock as a musical pilgrimage. If you are inspired by the story of 1969 or love musical history, it is a great day trip from NYC.

5. Cold Spring

Cold Spring is a tiny town in the Hudson Valley. Known for its antique shops and cute cafe culture, Cold Spring is a fantastic day trip from NYC. It is a brilliant choice if you want a small-town vibe after a few days in the constant flurry that is New York. You can easily spend half a day puttering around all the little shops and grabbing brunch. And in summer, you can enjoy picnics along the Hudson River. Cold Spring is just over an hour’s drive from the center of NYC or under two hours using public transport.

After an hour or two of antique shopping, Cold Spring has an extra selection of attractions that make it popular. Boscobel House and Gardens have 68 acres of diverse gardens to stroll, including woodland and dainty flowerbeds. There’s also the Putnam History Museum and West Point Foundry Preserve. Cold Spring has that small-town aesthetic, but you will never be short of entertainment options, which earns it its place on our list.

6. Fire Island

Fire Island is a beautiful barrier island off the coast of Long Island’s south shores. Rural, remote, and still ‘wild’, Fire Island is an adventurous day trip from New York for anyone wanting to escape beeping car horns and dodging the crowds. It is best known for its coastal reserve, the Fire Island National Seashore. Fire Island is only accessible by car and takes an hour and a half to reach from New York City center.

Visitors to the island can enjoy sunbathing, sailing, cycling, or admiring the famous Sunken Forest. The sunken forest got its name from the unique double dune system that protects the trees. None of which can grow taller than the dunes that protect them. Thus the forest is sunken in the dunes.

The island is an excellent spot for outdoor activities. Fire Island is a calming but versatile beach destination easily reached with a rental car – what more could you want on a sunny day? Note: If you do not have a car there is this Tour of Fire Island that leaves from the Long Island Rail Road Station on the Ronkonkoma Branch from Penn Station, Manhattan .

• One and a half hours from New York City

7. Storm King Mountain

Storm King Mountain sits in the center of Storm King State Park and rises over 13,123 feet (400 meters) above sea level. Just an hour and a half’s drive north of NYC, the mountain is a convenient nearby hike, which makes it popular with locals and tourists alike. The mound-like mountain is entirely covered in greenery and bursts out of the ground right next to the Hudson River, cutting a striking natural landmark. This mountain is the one for you if you want a hiking day trip.

As we are sure that you’ve already guessed, the mountain summit offers some beautiful views. You’ll be overlooking the Hudson River and all the surrounding greenery of the Hudson Valley countryside. It is a relatively easy five-mile hike to reach the summit, navigating a handful of mild switchbacks and mostly sticking to the easy footing on well-defined paths.

• One hour and a half from New York City

8. Minnewaska State Park Preserve

Minnewaska State Park Preserve is a dreamy spot to embrace nature outside NYC. The preserve boasts three lakes, more waterfalls than you can count, and hiking trails galore. Minnewaska State Park Preserve is also fantastic for rock climbing and biking if you want to leave your hiking boots behind and get a bit more adventurous. The preserve is only accessible by car, so rent a car, buckle up, and get ready for a two-hour drive through Hudson Valley.

The preserve has a pretty special location, perched on Shawangunk Mountain Ridge and overlooking the countryside of Ulster County. The preserve is known for cliffs, sweeping views, and natural water features. When you combine this with over 50 miles of hiking trails, it’s easy to see why it is such a sought-after location. For a day of hiking and natural attractions, Minnewaska State Park Preserve is a brilliant day trip from NYC.

9. Go cross-country skiing

So, if you are visiting New York in winter, what then? Many hiking trails close, and you might feel less enthusiastic about trudging around knee-deep in snow anyway. In winter, skiing is the answer. Outside the city center, you can visit fantastic ski resorts – spending your day on the slopes or exploring the countryside by cross-country skiing.

West Mountain is a popular place for skiing activities and is a few hours’ drive from NYC. For a resort experience, you could organize an overnight stay. However, it is close enough to visit for a day trip if you are short on time, especially if you are traveling with multiple drivers to split the driving time. Whether you are a total skiing newbie or an advanced skier, going cross-country skiing is a fun day trip from New York.

• Three hours from New York City

10. Governors Island

Governors Island is located smack bang in the middle of New York Harbor and is the perfect day trip from the city center. You can drive straight over to Governors Island via a connecting bridge from  Brooklyn , which takes less than half an hour (heavily dependent on traffic). Alternatively, catch a ferry ride to the island . Governors Island is one of the most central NYC day trips. If you are short on time, this is a realistic option for your list.

So, what is Governors Island? Governors Island is a 172-acre area that served as an early home for Dutch colonists who were initially wary of settling on the mainland. The island was then taken over by British rule in the late 17th century, coining its name ‘Governors Island’ after being reserved for His Majesty’s Governors. The island is open for public enjoyment, featuring recreation areas, cultural exhibits, and regular events and activities. You can even take a bike tour. This particular tour is the best one on the island and is likely to sell out! We suggest checking its schedule to see if anything catches your eye.

• 30 minutes from New York City

11. Atlantic City

Fancy a party break or another glitzy urban experience? Atlantic City is an outgoing, flashy coastal city just two hours from New York in New Jersey. The city is known for casinos and beaches, a popular niche for those wanting to let their hair down. If you want to combine multiple states in one trip, New Jersey is also a convenient addition, and you can always stop at attractions like Bass River State Forest on the way.

Like many cities around the US, Atlantic City has a large American-Italian population, and you can expect plenty of delicious restaurants and bars. While you visit Philadelphia for a day trip full of history, you visit Atlantic City for a day trip full of fun and partying. Atlantic City is a brilliant choice for an entertaining venture out of New York.

12. Iona Island Bird Sanctuary

Iona Island Bird Sanctuary is another of our NYC day trips for nature lovers. The sanctuary is on Iona Island, a 556-acre island an hour and a half drive from the city center. The island itself is lovely to explore and a great place to experience some off-the-beaten-track nature. You can also spot hundreds of birds, from common wetland birds to famous birds like the bald eagle. Whether you are a keen birdwatcher or want to immerse yourself in nature on an NYC day trip, Iona Island Bird Sanctuary is a beautiful spot for your itinerary.

You’ll need a car to visit Iona Island since navigating solely on public transport is tricky. But, if you have a rental car and enjoy finding more remote places on day trips, the sanctuary is an exciting spot to visit.

• An hour and a half from New York City

13. Go horseback riding in the Westchester County

There’s something ridiculously romantic about exploring the countryside on horseback, and what better place to do so than Westchester County? The county is sandwiched between two bodies of water – the Hudson Valley Sound and the Hudson River. It might be one of New York’s most populous counties, but it also has some stunning natural areas. You can ride along the beautiful waterfront and wooded trails with Westchester Trail Rides , stables are located just an hour and 20 minutes drive from the city center.

Cross streams, lope along woodland trails, and admire the Westchester scenery. Even better, the stables are also accessible via the Metro North. Horseback riding in Westchester County is an easy, romantic, and fun day trip from NYC.

• One hour and 20 minutes from New York City

14. Go wine tasting in North Fork

Did you know that award-winning wineries surround New York City? North Fork is the most famous region for wine tasting and is situated at the eastern end of Long Island – surrounded by water, which is said to be ideal for growing the perfect wine. It is nicknamed Long Island wine country and is a fantastic day trip when visiting NYC. The 30-mile stretch of the peninsula is around two and a half hours from the city center and is only accessible via car. However, to enjoy the tasting experience, we recommend booking a tour from NYC , which covers transportation for you.

Most of the best wineries are located along Main Road and include Peconic Bay Vineyards, Jason’s Vineyard, and Paumanok Vineyards. You could easily walk between them, although those who purchase tours will have the luxury of vehicle transfers. Wine tasting in Long Island’s North Fork is a fun activity, especially for wine enthusiasts wanting to experience New York’s take on vino.

• Two and a half hours from New York City

15. Montauk Point Lighthouse Museum

Montauk Point Lighthouse Museum is an attraction for history buffs. The 1796-built lighthouse was authorized by President George Washington and was the first ever lighthouse to be built in New York. It is now the fourth oldest working lighthouse in the US – a pretty staggering title. The museum is an adjoining attraction where you can learn more about the lighthouse and its history. One of the best ways to explore is on an electric bike. This tour takes you around the island with minimal effort.

Montauk Point Lighthouse has one of the longest travel times out of all our day trips and takes nearly four hours to reach by car. Because of this, we recommend pacing the drive out as a one-day road trip and stopping at attractions like Parrish Art Museum and Hook Windmill along the way. You could combine it with a beach day at East Hampton Main Beach. Take your time, take in the sights along the way, and have multiple drivers take turns at the wheel.

• Four hours from New York City

16. Sleepy Hollow Cemetery

Sleepy Hollow Cemetery is one of the strangest NYC day trips. Not only was the cemetery the focus of the story  The Legend of Sleepy Hollow , but it is also the burial place of many rich and famous people, including William Rockefeller. You can visit to spot famed resting places and tour the cemetery. If you are visiting New York in the fall, visiting Sleepy Hollow Cemetery is a popular, spooky activity, and the graveyard is exceptionally atmospheric.

The cemetery is an hour and a half drive or an hour on the metro. You can hop on at Grand Central Terminal and take the Hudson Line 745 to Philipse Manor, walking around fifteen minutes to reach the cemetery. Visiting this famed cemetery as a day trip from NYC is straightforward and an unusual addition to your itinerary.

17. Go ice skating at The Rink

New York has some tremendous ice-skating rinks; that much is for sure. However, The Rink is easily one of the best options if you are looking for an ice-skating day trip. The NHL regulation-size rink is just a forty-minute bus ride or drive from New York City center. You can don a pair of skates yourself or leave it to the professionals and watch a figure skating or hockey tournament. The Rink is fantastic as it caters to those who want to get involved and those who are ‘passionate onlookers’.

Wrap up warm and get excited to pull off or watch some cool moves; ice skating is one of NYC’s most entertaining day trips. For those wanting a winter sports experience but don’t want to venture to the nearest ski slopes, ice skating is also a great compromise.

• Forty minutes from New York City

18. New Hope Railroad

New Hope Railroad is a heritage railway just under two hours drive southwest of NYC. If you are a locomotive enthusiast or just love all things vintage, New Hope Railroad is a fascinating and immersive place to visit. It makes a great day trip for those who like to get involved and experience history for themselves. The 18-mile route has both steam and diesel trains, and visitors can embark on scenic rides through Buck Country.

New Hope Railroad is a perfect standalone day trip from NYC, but if you are okay with a longer travel day, consider combining it with a visit to Philadelphia. Philadelphia is just over an hour south of the railway – too close not to be tempted by surely.

19. Asbury Park

Asbury Park is another New Jersey gem just an hour’s drive from New York City. The seaside city is the perfect coastal getaway if you want a traditional seaside experience. You have everything from a wooden boardwalk to beach arcades with games and machines dating back to the 1930s. It is a popular destination for those wanting to unwind and have a fun, light-hearted day. Asbury Park will keep you entertained whether you are traveling as a family or just want to unleash your inner child.

You could relax on Asbury Park Beach, which has typically calm waters perfect for swimming or paddling. Otherwise, you could treat yourself to a meal overlooking the ocean, walk the scenic boardwalk, or spend a few hours in Silverball Retro Arcade. The best thing about Asbury Park is its old-world atmosphere; for a vintage beach day, don’t look any further.

20. Go on a boat cruise along the Hudson River

You can get river cruises everywhere in New York. One of the most popular things to do in New York City is to cruise up the East River for ultimate views of the cityscape and New York’s major waterfront attractions. Ready for more adventure, though? One of the best day trips from NYC is to head up the Hudson River on a cruise. You can usually take cruises straight from New York City , so your travel time is low, and the cruises usually last a few hours.

The Hudson River splits New Jersey and New York, with the state boundaries falling somewhere in the river itself. From New York City, you’ll cruise upstream, under the George Washington Bridge and past stunning scenery like Tallman Mountain State Park. You’ll also get to sightsee some of both states’ lesser-known attractions, including waterfront mansions like the Gothic revival property Lyndhurst Mansion. The Hudson River is one of the most famous rivers in the world and is nicknamed the ‘river that flows both ways’ because the flow is controlled by the tide. It is easy to see why the Hudson River makes such a popular day trip.

• A few hours from New York City

21. Go Seal and whale watching from Long Island

When you think of things to do near New York, whale watching probably isn’t one of them. The waters off of Long Island are full of marine animals, though, including humpback, fin, and North Atlantic right whales throughout summer and fall. Even if you don’t spot whales, you’ll likely see bottlenose or common dolphins.

The best way to see whales on a day trip from NYC is to book a whale-watching boat trip from Long Island . You can easily drive or take public transport to Long Island, enjoying a fully organized tour experience from there. If you’ve never seen whales up close, going whale watching from Long Island is one of the best wildlife day trips from NYC. Seeing whales in the wild is a humbling and awe-inspiring day trip – the perfect balance for a city break.

22. Storm King Art Center

Storm King Art Center is a day trip for art lovers. The open-air museum showcases a huge collection of contemporary sculptures, some so bizarre that you’ll be head-scratching for a while before you figure them out. There are over a hundred sculptures spread out over 500 acres. In the summer of 2022, Storm King Art Center also invested a staggering $45 million in redesigning the center. It is a massively popular day trip from New York, partly for its art and partly because it makes such a lovely outdoor day out.

The outdoor art gallery is an hour and a half’s drive from the city center or just under two hours on public transport. You’ll have some great views along the way, though, and will drive along the banks of the Hudson River and between Harriman and Bear Mountain State Park.

23. South Mountain Reservation

South Mountain Reservation is one of the best New York City day trips. The 2,000-acre public park is the ultimate day out, featuring a sports arena, zoo, and hiking trails galore. The reservation is the perfect place to spend a day – especially in spring or summer on a warm, sunny day. You can pack a picnic, walk the grounds, and even go pond fishing. And on a hot day, there’s a pavilion with ceiling fans to retreat to.

The reservation is a 45-minute drive from NYC or around an hour on public transport. It is massively popular amongst New Yorkers and much less touristy than any parks in the city center. A win, win.

• 45 minutes from New York City

24. New Paltz

Has Woodstock made you intrigued to visit the Hudson Valley’s small towns? Well, New Paltz should be another on your list. The college town is an hour and a half’s drive from NYC and is set in the dramatic countryside right on the curve of the Wallkill River. The town has that wholesome atmosphere, with farmers’ markets and romantic hiking trails that whisk you straight from the town center. It makes a great day out, and New Paltz is easily one of the most popular places to visit in the beautiful Hudson Valley.

Make sure to stop by Historic Huguenot Street, a National Historic Landmark District consisting of seven stone houses built by Huguenot settlers in the 18th century. The street usually has immersive history demonstrations in full flow. It is a fascinating spot for history lovers and those interested in early American history. And when you are satisfied with a history fix, we suggest embarking on the Ridge-to-Ridge Trail for beautiful views.

25. Washington D.C.

Last but not least, here’s our most ambitious day trip from NYC. Washington, D.C., is the U.S. capital city and one of the most famed cities on Earth. Washington is known for its history, memorials, and museums. For any serious sightseers, it is a fantastic add-on to your NYC itinerary. You could visit the Lincoln Memorial, United States Capitol, National Gallery of Art, or Library of Congress. Read more: 12 Must-See Washington DC Monuments and Memorials in Photos

For full disclosure, getting to Washington, D.C., is tiring, and you should allow for an eight-hour round trip of driving. If you can rotate drivers, you can manage this on a self-guided day trip, but if not, we recommend booking a guided tour. These tours include transfers from NYC . You can kick back and just enjoy the ride.

• Three hours and 45 minutes from New York City

To Conclude

Are you excited to try out these day trips from NYC? You should be. New York City might be an action-packed, exciting place, but these destinations also deserve a place on your itinerary. Besides, it always feels more adventurous to stray out of the city center.

If you’ve got any more questions about visiting New York, you can check out our guides on  where to stay  and a special  New York Christmas guide . Have a fantastic trip.

Plan Your Next Trip to NYC With These Resources

• 41 Awesome Things to Do in New York City
• 25 Best Things to Do in Brooklyn, New York
• Where to Stay in New York City – Best Hotels and Top Places For All Budgets
• 30 Best New York Views – Where to See the Manhattan Skyline
• Things to do in Lake Placid, New York
• New York City Itinerary – 5 Days in New York
• Best Museums in NYC

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

25 Best Places to Visit in August USA (2024)

15 Fascinating Fun Facts About Hawaii You Will Love

Where to Stay In And Near Zion National Park 2024: Our Favourite Places

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

2 thoughts on “25 Best Day trips from NYC In 2024”

Come up to New Haven for some pizza!

Wonderful article! Highly appreciate for putting in so much effort. This place will surely be on my upcoming bucket list. Waiting to have the best experience!

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

Get us in your inbox

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest and greatest from your city and beyond

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best of New York for free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy New York without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Time Out Market
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Attractions
• Los Angeles

The best train trips from NYC for a scenic rail adventure

New York City is just a few hours from historic cities and beautiful communities accessed via train—and with breathtaking views along the way!

Photograph: Shutterstock

As much as the U.S. is heavily car-dependent and the American past time is a good ol’ summer  road trip along historic routes across the states, the Northeast is definitely spoiled with accessible rail connections making it easy for rail aficionados, business travelers, tourists and anyone to sojourn between cities and small towns for quick day trips and weekend getaways in any season. New York City, especially, is within 10 hours of some historic cities and beautiful communities accessed via train—and with breathtaking views along the way!

Even though the region doesn’t have sweeping scenic train rides such as the California Zephyr going into the Rocky Mountains or the Coast Starlight route with Cascade Mountains and Pacific Coast views, the New York/Northeast route can still boast of historic landmarks and ruins along the Hudson Valley, sparkling waters of the Connecticut coastline in summer, and truly spectacular fall foliage in autumn.

Check out these direct train routes that’ll offer up scenic views right outside your window.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best scenic rail trips from NYC

1.  enjoy hudson river and mountainous views to pittsfield, ma.

Use that PTO and hop onto the Berkshire Flyer’s seasonal weekend service route for the long but scenic train ride to Pittsfield—the Heart of the Berkshires . Gaze out the window at the lush Hudson River valley green and its historic ruins as the four-hour train rolls through Poughkeepsie where the Gilded Age Vanderbilt Mansion is a few miles north of the station. The Berkshires is famous for a thriving ecosystem of woodlands, wetlands, and mountains , all of which attract outdoorsy travelers. Pack a bike or hiking boots to enjoy the scenic landscape in Pittsfield, which is visible as the train rolls into town.

What train route? Amtrak Berkshire Flyer How long is the train ride? 4 hours 5 minutes from New York’s Moynihan Hall.  Why is this route nice? Views of the Berkshire Mountains, Hudson River, picturesque towns and Catskills

2.  Take in coastal scenes to Providence, RI for America’s smallest state

America’s smallest state is a direct train ride for city adventures any day of the week as the train station is a walking distance to downtown Providence. This 3.5-hour route hugs the Connecticut coast and riders can see the water and boats bobbing and sailing on it at several points along the train ride. Heading southbound towards New York City? Sit on the left side of the train for even more spectacular coastal views.

What train route? Amtrak Northeast Regional How long is the train ride? 3.5 hours from New York’s Moynihan Hall.  Why is this route nice? Sparkling summer coastal views of sailboats and harbors

3.  See skyline and river views of Philadelphia, PA

Philadelphia is a hop, skip, and a jump away from NYC (just an hour and a half) and while the views tend to be industrial, graffiti-decorated, or bland as you pass through New Jersey and Delaware, the left side of the train is where you’ll see the Philadelphia skyline and Boathouse Row along the Schuylkill River before arrival at Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station.

What train route? Amtrak Northeast Regional How long is the train ride? 1 hour 30 minutes from New York’s Moynihan Hall.  Why is this route nice? Nighttime views of Boathouse Row and the Philadelphia skyline, rowers on the river during the day and industrial architectural remnants (for those with a niche interest)

4.  Cruise through the lush Hudson Valley heading to Albany, NY

The NYC to Albany is one of the few train rides in the Northeast with lovely views of verdant foliage and wine country of the Hudson Valley region heading north three hours to Albany. On the return journey from Albany to NYC, sit on the right side for breathtaking views of the Hudson River, the Catskill Mountains, and the Palisades as you approach Penn Station. The Palisades are especially scenic during fall foliage when leaves turn hues of yellow and orange.

What train route? Amtrak Adirondack, Ethan Allen Express How long is the train ride? Approx. 3 hours from New York’s Moynihan Hall. Why is this route nice? Views of the historic Hudson Valley, Hudson Valley towns and villages, Palisades, and Catskills

5.  Discover castle ruins and lighthouse views on the way to Hudson, NY

Fondly known as “ Upstate New York’s Downtown , ” Hudson is a favorite among NYC residents for day trips and weekend getaways—it’s just two hours away! The Hudson Valley is one of the most scenic routes in New York State so keep your eyes peeled for the ruins of Bannerman Castle on Pollepel Island, Bear Mountain, and the historic Hudson-Athens lighthouse . In addition, the train speeds by lush forests and marsh that are green in summer but explode with hues of yellow and orange for fall foliage.

What train route? Amtrak Maple Leaf, Adirondack and Ethan Allen Express lines How long is the train ride?  2 hours from New York’s Moynihan Hall.  Why is this route nice? Views of the historic Hudson-Athens lighthouse , Bannerman Castle ruins, West Point, Bear Mountain and lush foliage along the Hudson River.

6.  Ride the Connecticut coast to Mystic for nautical history

Interested in nautical and whaling history but also want a small-town charm with a beautiful downtown? Mystic is it. Enroute to Mystic, swap highway gridlock for stress-free scenic train travel passing through attractive small towns with steeples, historic architecture, and verdant foliage. In New York, the three-hour route goes by the Hudson River where the Hudson-Athens lighthouse is visible if seated at the right side of the train heading southbound into New York City.

Closer to Mystic, the train passes right through Sixpenny Island and also hugs the south end of the nearby Haley Farm State Park . The route also goes by the Mystic Seaport harbor area where historic ships like the Charles Morgan whaling ship and other vessels are visible from the train.

What train route? Maple Leaf, Adirondack, and Ethan Allen Express How long is the train ride? Approx. 3 hours from New York Moynihan Hall.  Why is this route nice? Views of Hudson-Athens lighthouse in NY, historic ships in Mystic Seaport harbor, small New England towns and scenic state parks in Connecticut.

7.  See Pennsylvania Dutch Country on the way to Pittsburgh, PA

Pittsburgh is a long but direct train ride from NYC. Still, the window scenes as the nine-hour train speeds by make up for this distance. Look out for the historic Horseshoe Curve near Altoona—known as one of the eight engineering marvels of the world—and gaze at the farmlands and barn houses of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. The train rounds the Horseshoe Curve once each way daily. Also visible is Pittsburgh’s Golden Triangle, where the Allegheny, Monongahela and Ohio Rivers converge; and the Allegheny Mountains are also visible from the train.

What train route? Amtrak Pennsylvanian How long is the train ride? Approx. 9 hours from New York Why is this route nice? Scenes of Horseshoe Curve as an engineering marvel, Allegheny Mountain Range and the Golden Triangle river convergence point.

8.  Spot the Hudson River and Lake Champlain toward Burlington, VT

If you’re into slow travel, this route is just for you, so board with refreshments and entertainment for the ride to the Green Mountain State. Eight hours northbound to Burlington, sit on the left side for Hudson River views (beautiful in all seasons) and scenic glimpses of New England communities with their architecture and steeples. In Vermont, the views that matter are those of Lake Champlain south of Burlington, and this view would be on the left side of the train northbound. Heading north to Burlington, the Vermont portion will be dark except on long summer days.

What train route? Ethan Allen Express How long is the train ride? Approx. 8 hours from New York’s Moynihan Hall Why is this route nice? Lake Champlain and scenic Hudson River Valley views

9.  Marvel at Chesapeake Bay views toward Baltimore, MD

Baltimore doesn’t spring to mind when listing scenic train rides but here’s a tip: southbound from NYC, sit on the left side of the train for Chesapeake Bay views. During the fall, you might even get to see the fiery red, yellow, and orange leaves of the Bay’s fall foliage on the way. This nearly three-hour route might also terminate in Washington D.C. and for brief scenic views en route D.C., sit on the left side for where the train crosses the Susquehanna River.

What train route? Amtrak Northeast Regional and Amtrak Acela How long is the train ride? Approx. 2 hours 50 minutes from New York Why is this route nice? Chesapeake Bay and Baltimore skyline views

10.  See ships and harbors on the coast heading to Boston, MA

The NYC to Boston route is another route in the Northeast with lovely views so ease the four-and-a-half-hourlong ride to Boston by identifying and admiring scenic views from the train window. From NYC, sit on the right side as the train hugs the Connecticut coastline for views of ships, harbors, and bridges. 

What train route? Amtrak Acela and Amtrak Northeast Regional How long is the train ride? Approx. 4 hours 30 minutes from New York Why is this route nice? Scenes of the Connecticut coastline

11.  Peep the Palisades cliffs in Poughkeepsie, NY

The best views here are during fall foliage season where this two-hour train hugs the edge of the Hudson River allowing magnificent views of the Palisades with their bright fall colors. Get your walking shoes on for more bursts of color as you walk or bike Walkway Over the Hudson , an elevated pedestrian bridge beginning at the Poughkeepsie station, for photography-worthy scenes and discovering communities along the way. 

What train route? MTA Metro-North from Grand Central Terminal How long is the train ride? 2 hours  Why is this route nice? Colorful views of the Palisades cliffs and other foliage 

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Copyright agent
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Claim your listing
• Local Marketing Solutions
• Advertising

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

Plan, Ready, Go®

1 Day in NYC: Must-do’s for First-timers + Interactive Map

Only have one day in New York ? Maximize your visit with my itinerary created especially for NYC first-time visitors . I have visited New York City several times. During my last two trips, I was accompanied by people visiting for the first time.

I recommend spending at least four days in NYC . However, even one day can give you a taste of this top travel destination.

Key Things to Know

• Don’t miss the Statue of Liberty, the 9/11 Memorial, or Central Park for a mix of history and iconic landmarks.
• Maximize your time by using the subway for faster (cheap) travel between Manhattan’s attractions. Or walk!
• This itinerary is completely customizable to your particular interests and the exact amount of time you have in New York City.

This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  See disclaimer.

One day in New York itinerary 

9/11 memorial (and museum).

9/11 Memorial | Closest subway stops: WTC–Cortland St (1) and Cortland Street (R, W)  

Start your day by spending your morning in Lower Manhattan. 

In my opinion, your one-day NYC itinerary should absolutely include the 9/11 Memorial. It’s one of my favorite free things to do in New York City .   

The terrorist attack on Sept. 11, 2001, which destroyed the Twin Towers, forever changed the city and the United States. In fact, it’s one of the most moving and beautiful memorials that I have ever had the privilege of seeing. The 9/11 Memorial typically is open to the public all day every day. 

Optional: The 9/11 Memorial Museum is at the same location. Though I haven’t had the privilege of seeing it, I’ve heard great things. There is a charge for admission to the museum.

Statue of Liberty 

Ferry from Manhattan departs from Battery Park | Subway stops: South Ferry Station (1), Whitehall Street (R), Bowling Green (4, 5)  

In my opinion, your New York City itinerary must include the Statue of Liberty, my absolute favorite place in the city.

Buy your tickets ahead of time onlin e, especially if you want to climb up to the crown. When available, those tickets can sell out weeks or even months in advance.    

Even if you don’t want to go up onto the pedestal or the crown of the Statue of Liberty, you can purchase a general admission ticket to enjoy the cruise over to Liberty Island (with great views of both Lady Liberty and Lower Manhattan). You can visit the new museum and walk around the monument’s exterior.

 If you only have a day in New York I recommend skipping a visit to Ellis Island even though it’s included in your ticket. 

More things to do on a day trip to New York City

• Explore NYC with a sightseeing helicopter tour over Manhattan .
• Pay a visit to the top of One World Observatory with this skip-the-line ticket .
• If you’re staying the night in New York, consider this sunset cruise in New York Harbor.

TRAVEL TIP: If you have flexible travel dates you need to check out Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights). You get amazing flight deals sent straight to your inbox with instructions on how to book directly with the airlines. Check out Going here. Going is my favorite way to find great travel deals. 

Lunch options: where to eat 

By the time you finish your visit to the Statue of Liberty, you’ll likely be ready for a bite to eat. The Crown Café offers a wide variety of burgers, salads, and sandwiches. Their menu includes vegetarian options as well as several items that can be made gluten-free upon request. 

Battery Park (where you’ll disembark from your cruise to Liberty Island) is a great picnic spot. You can grab a cheap lunch from a food truck or assemble a picnic from a nearby market.

If a restaurant is more what you’re looking for, wander into the Financial District where you’ll find a variety of popular eateries for all budgets. 

TIP: Keep track of all of your important travel details with a digital travel planner like this .

Empire State Building 

20 West 34 Street | Subway stop: 34 St–Herald Square (B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W), 33 St (M)  

Many believe visiting the Empire State Building is a must on their trip to New York City.

I will admit right now that in all my NYC trips, I’ve only ever admired this iconic structure from the ground.  I do not like heights, nor do I generally pay money to stand atop them. But you who are not afraid of heights can go as high as the 102nd floor. The main observation deck is on the 86th floor.   

Time-saving tip: Upgrade your Empire State Building ticket to get skip-the-line access.

As an alternative, save the Empire State Building for after dinner, or even enjoy dinner at the State Grill and Bar.  

Times Square 

Subway stop: Times Square–42 Street (N, Q, R, S, W, 1, 2, 3, 7)   

You’ve seen it in movies and TV shows. Of all the places to visit in New York City, it’s hard to think of anything else that’s more New York than Times Square. Soak it in, take a few photos, and wander through so you can say you’ve been there (it’s great at night also). Maybe even buy a cheap souvenir T-shirt or stop in at M&M’s World.  

Times Square is just a 15-minute walk from the Empire State Building.  

Rockefeller Center 

Between 49th and 51st Streets between Fifth and Sixth Avenues | Subway stop: 47-50 Streets Rockefeller Center (B, D, F, M), 49 Street (N, R, W)  

A 10-minute walk from Times Square will take you to Rockefeller Center. It’s a New York City landmark that includes 30 Rockefeller Plaza (NBC Studios), Radio City Music Hall, and more.

In addition to some great shopping and dining, you can take a guided tour of Rockefeller Center, go to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck , skate at the Rink, and more.     

If you’re feeling snackish, I recommend stopping at Magnolia Bakery for something yummy.  

Grab your Top of the Rock ticket here.

Central Park 

From North 110th Street to Central Park South (59th Street), and from Central Park West (8th Avenue) to 5th Ave | Subway stops: There are several subway stops around the perimeter of the park including 5th Ave/59 Street (N, R, W), 59 Street/Columbus Circle (A, B, C, D, 1), Central Park North (2, 3), and 6 stops on the west side of the park.  

Central Park is so quintessentially New York that you absolutely need to make time in your itinerary to see it even if only spending one day in New York.

Now, keep in mind that this park is huge. I mean it. Central Park covers 1.3 square miles (840 acres) of Manhattan. You could easily spend an entire day just exploring this place.  

To start I’d suggest looking at a map of the park and choosing a few things you want to see. This might be the Central Park Zoo, the Alice in Wonderland Statue, Belvedere Castle, or the Conservatory Water (where you can rent a model boat to sail on the pond).   

The southeast corner of Central Park is just a 15-minute walk from Rockefeller Center. If you want to walk all the way to the Conservatory Water and the Alice in Wonderland Statue, expect a walk of closer to 30 minutes.

Time-saving Tip: Instead of walking to Central Park from Rockefeller Center, jump in a NYC cab.

Interactive map

Click on the yellow pins on the map below to see more information about each stop on your itinerary. To see this map in your Google account just tap on the little star next to the map name.

Ways to modify this itinerary

With only one day in NYC, there are an incredible number of ways you could spend your time. Here are a few ways you could modify this one-day itinerary to fit your particular interests. It’s important that you get to see the things you want.

• Take the subway to Brooklyn then walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, enjoying your view of the Manhattan skyline.
• Enjoy a tour of either or both of two of the premier art museums in the world, The Metropolitan Museum of Art and/or the Museum of Modern Art.
• Explore Greenwich Village, Soho, and other iconic neighborhoods.
• End your day with a Broadway show.

Short half-day itinerary for NYC

Even if you don’t have a full day or 24 hours to spend in New York City, you can still see a few of the major highlights. Here are a few options:

• Focus on one area such as Lower Manhattan, grabbing a view of Brooklyn Bridge, followed by the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum.
• Explore the Empire State Building, Times Square, and Rockefeller Center, and then stroll up to Central Park if time allows.
• Get the best of New York’s top art museums at The Met, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Guggenheim.

New York 1-day tours

Want to see the best of New York in a day, but rather leave the planning to someone else? Leave the planning to an expert tour guide.

• Pack the very best of NYC into one day with this highly rate expert guided tour . See New York’s major landmarks in only 6 hours.
• Go beyond Manhattan’s major tourist sites with this tour of Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens, Harlem, and Coney Island .

Where to stay

If you’re thinking about spending more than a day in New York, you might be overwhelmed by the many hotel options.

Here are my recommendations for where to stay in New York City: 

• Hyatt Place Midtown South (52 West 36th Street): We loved staying at this hotel. It’s just two blocks from the Empire State Building and just around the corner from the 34th Street – Herald Square subway stop. Book Now  
• For a more boutique-style accommodation try Archer Hotel New York (45 West 38th Street). Book Now

How to get around

I say this so often, but I will continue to say it over and over: use your feet and the subway.

I’m serious about the subway. You’ll get where you want to go cheaper than Uber or taxis and of course much faster than walking especially when traveling from one area of Manhattan to another.  You can find subway maps on the MTA website .

Taxis are a fine option for getting around New York City especially if you are in a time crunch or are going someplace that just doesn’t have an easy subway route or a nearby stop.

The bottom line

There are so many amazing things you could fill your day with in NYC that you can’t possibly see as much as you would like, BUT you can see the best of the best. From historical monuments to stunning views from the best observatories in the world, you almost can’t go wrong with how you spend your day here.

More articles about New York

• The essential overnight packing list
• Free things to do in NYC
• Must-do things in New York for first-timers
• The top day trips from NYC
• Scenic drives in New York state

Pin this post!  

Darcy Vierow is a busy professional and travel planning expert with years of experience maximizing travel with limited time and on a less-than-average salary. Her tips have been published by Forbes, MSN.com, Yahoo! News, Yahoo! Finance, Aol, Newsbreak and GOBankingRates. Read more about Darcy Vierow .

Can’t wait great job

Great article, Darcy! You have prepared an amazing one-day itinerary for people vising NYC along with some great tips to commute within the city. Subways are indeed the best way to get around the whole city. However, if the time permits, why not go sailing as well? After seeing the city on foot all day, one can relax on a sailboat and enjoy the skyline. Several companies offer rental for 2-3 hours including sunset cruises overlooking Manhattan. Book beforehand to get the best deals.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. *

Privacy Overview

Advertisement

Democrats Donate More Than $50 Million Online After Biden’s Exit

Sunday was the single biggest day for online Democratic donations in years — a significant show of enthusiasm after weeks of sluggish fund-raising.

• Share full article

By Shane Goldmacher

• July 21, 2024

Democrats greeted President Biden’s departure from the presidential race with an avalanche of cash, donating more than $50 million online on Sunday and making it the single biggest day for online Democratic contributions since the 2020 election — with hours to go.

The huge amount is based on a New York Times analysis of the online ticker of contributions maintained by ActBlue, the leading site processing Democratic donations.

With Mr. Biden gone and Vice President Kamala Harris building momentum to claim the nomination, Democrats went online to contribute at a startling pace. Donations spiked from an average of less than $200,000 per hour in the hours before Mr. Biden quit to nearly $11.5 million in a single hour later on Sunday, the analysis shows.

As of 10 p.m., Sunday was ActBlue’s third biggest day for online donations in its history.

The ActBlue ticker accounts for all donations made on the platform, not just those made to Mr. Biden or Ms. Harris. It includes contributions made to nearly every Democratic House and Senate candidate and to an array of politically minded nonprofits.

“This might be the greatest fundraising moment in Democratic Party history,” wrote Kenneth Pennington, a Democratic digital strategist, on X .

The previous single biggest day for donations on ActBlue came the day after Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg passed away in September 2020. ActBlue processed roughly $73.5 million that day. It is one of only two days the platform ever surpassed $50 million in donations before Sunday.

The latest deluge is significant as the party seeks to recover from a month of political infighting and stalled momentum in the race against former President Donald J. Trump. Party fund-raising had slowed considerably among major Democratic donors in the weeks after Mr. Biden’s poor debate performance.

Shane Goldmacher is a national political correspondent, covering the 2024 campaign and the major developments, trends and forces shaping American politics. He can be reached at [email protected] . More about Shane Goldmacher

Keep Up With the 2024 Election

The presidential election is 106 days away . Here’s our guide to the run-up to election day.

Return to the Campaign Trail. Trump leaves unity behind and resumes his election denial.

Picking a V.P. Here’s a look at the names of likely Democrats on Harris’s desk now.

Issues Tracker. Where Harris stands on abortion, immigration and more.

Trump’s 2025 Plans. Trump is preparing to radically reshape the government.

Endorsements Pour In. Which democrats have backed Harris for president.

Trump on Tuesday called the family of his supporter who died during the assassination attempt. On Monday, his wife told the New York Post he had not yet called

• The wife of Corey Comperatore, who died at the Trump rally, said Trump had not called her as of Monday.
• Corey Comperatore died shielding his family during an assassination attempt on Trump at a rally.
• Helen Comperatore said Biden called her. On Tuesday, she shared that Trump called her, per The New York Times.

The wife of Corey Comperatore , the man who was killed during the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, told The New York Post in an interview on Monday that the former president had not yet contacted her since the shooting on Saturday.

After the Post's report, Helen Comperatore said in a social media post that Trump called her on Tuesday, according to The New York Times .

Corey Comperatore, a 50-year-old former fire chief from Pennsylvania, was a supporter of Trump and attended the rally with his wife and daughters. His family said he was shot while shielding them from the gunfire.

In an interview with The New York Post that was published Monday at 4:44 p.m. ET, his wife, Helen Comperatore, said her husband was her "hero" and that the last thing he said to them was "get down!"

Helen Comperatore told the outlet that, at that point, she had not heard from Trump. The former president said he was shot during the rally ; two others were shot and critically wounded.

Representatives for the Trump campaign, the White House, and the Biden campaign did not immediately respond to requests for comment from Business Insider. BI attempted to reach Helen Comperatore through email.

"He was very kind and said he would continue to call me in the days and weeks ahead," she said of Trump on social media, according to The Times.

Corey Comperatore's sister told The Times the family also spoke with representatives of the Trump campaign on Monday night.

In his first statement after the shooting on Saturday, Trump wrote on Truth Social: "I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania. Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured."

In another post on Sunday, Trump added, "Our love goes out to the other victims and their families. We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed."

Related stories

Trump's team has also shared a link to a GoFundMe that was "authorized" by the former president and is raising funds that will go towards the victims' families. The page had accrued more than $4.5 million in donations as of Monday evening.

On Sunday, Trump arrived in Milwaukee for the Republican National Committee convention, which kicked off on Monday. Trump was formally nominated as the GOP candidate for president and announced he had selected Sen. JD Vance of Ohio as his vice presidential running mate.

Helen Comperatore told the Post her family did receive a call from President Joe Biden , but that she did not speak with him.

"I didn't talk to Biden. I didn't want to talk to him," she said. "My husband was a devout Republican, and he would not have wanted me to talk to him."

While some Republicans, including Vance , blamed Biden's rhetoric for the attempted assassination of Trump, the FBI has not identified a motive for the shooting.

Helen Comperatore said she did not think Biden was responsible for her husband's death. She told the Post she is voting for Trump but that she is not very involved in politics.

"I don't have any ill-will towards Joe Biden," she said, adding, "He didn't do anything to my husband. A 20-year-old despicable kid did."

Update, July 16, 2024: Helen Comperatore said in a social media post that Trump called her on Tuesday, according to The New York Times . Corey Comperatore's sister told the Times the family also spoke with representatives of the Trump campaign on Monday night.

Watch: The House floor showdown between Lauren Boebert and Marjorie Taylor Greene is just the tip of the iceberg

• Main content