8 hours in New York

As one of the liveliest cities in the world, it’s easy to see why New York is nicknamed the city that never sleeps. From the neon lights of Times Square to the shimmery sequins of Broadway’s costumes, there is so much to see and do on a cruise to New York. With just 8 hours in port, here are the top five things to do in the Big Apple:

Watching a Broadway show is a quintessential New York experience and one that appears on many travellers' bucket lists. If you’re a lover of musicals (and even if you’re not), seeing a Broadway show is a special experience. A part of the fabric of New York City, Broadway represents the heart and soul of American theatre, wrapped up in a dizzying maze of sights and sounds. The neverending list of shows is ever-changing, so you’re certain to find at least a few that take your fancy. If you have your heart set on a certain show, however, make sure to book your tickets well in advance.

Exciting, colourful and always jumping, the neon lights and video billboards of Times Square are one of New York’s most well-known landmarks. The famous intersection is perched in the Midtown area of Manhattan and is the ideal place to visit either before or after your Broadway show, though many travellers recommend experiencing the bustle of Times Square at night when the neon lights shine bright. Attracting over 50 million people a year, the unique area is what makes New York so different to other cities around the world.

Wondering where to find the best pizza in New York City? Look no further, Paulie Gee’s Slice Shop on 110 Franklin Street serves up the freshest, most delicious New York-style slices and whole pies in the city. The cosy and welcoming atmosphere is what the chain is known for, that and the exceptional pizza! The extensive menu of wood-fired pizzas features inventive combinations using delicious locally-sourced ingredients. There’s also a long list of vegan options and a secret pizza list hidden on the back of the menu. Stop by for a lunchtime slice or dine in for dinner.

Whether you look up at it from the ground or head to the 86th floor, the view of the Empire State Building is spectacular. As the tallest building in the world from 1931 to 1977, the art deco skyscraper is to New York City what the Eiffel Tower is to Paris, a source of quiet pride. A visit here is the perfect way to begin or end your cruise to New York, providing an opportunity to see the city in a different light. We’d recommend booking tickets well in advance and guaranteeing the sunset slot to marvel at New York as it transforms from day to night.

Set on an abandoned rail track on Manhattan’s West Side, the High Line stretches over 3 of the city’s most lively neighbourhoods; the Meatpacking District, West Chelsea and Hell’s Kitchen. Standing 30 feet above street level, the landscaped park offers sweeping views of the Hudson River and Manhattan’s cityscape. To locals, the High Line is more than just a park, with continually changing public art installations, a handful of food vendors and a sprawling picnic and sunbathing area, this is one of the best public parks in New York City.