Manhattan, NYC: Top 5 Neighborhoods

Many people have tried to describe what makes New York so extraordinary; millions of people come to find out themselves each year. It is easy to be fascinated by the captivating atmosphere that surrounds the city.

But while thousands of sights await to be explored in a hurry, you will learn that the true spirit of New York can only be experienced whilst exploring the neighbourhoods. That is why we have put together our Top 5 List of districts in Manhattan that give an insight into the New York way of life.

Greenwich Village is always worth a visit. If you could not see skyscrapers from afar, you would practically forget that you are in the most vibrant city in the world. In the middle of the urban jungle, it offers you the chance to stroll about and explore the picturesque streets around Washington Square. Take time to sit in the American Joseph Leopard Restaurant and just watch the cabs pass by as you soak in the New York feeling you just can’t describe.

Soho is defined mostly by the unique architecture of the famous cast-iron fire escapes. A lot of art galleries along with unique boutiques are located here and give the district a distinct and elegant flair.

Chinatown is inhabited by the biggest Chinese community in the Western Hemisphere. The streetscape is characterised by a noticeable mixture of American and Chinese architecture as well as many Asian shops and restaurants. One of the classic Chinatown streets is Mott Street.

In and around Midtown, you will find a lot of New York’s most popular attractions such as the Museum of Modern Art and Broadway. The Empire State Building with its observation deck at breathtaking heights reveals an entirely different side of the city. Nothing makes it seem smaller than being 86 floors above it. Of course, you cannot forget about Times Square with its bright lights. It is mercilessly charming, over the top and a bit overwhelming, just like the city itself. The fantastic view over the illuminations from the Olive Garden restaurant can put some distance between you and the chaos of Manhattan’s streets at the end of the day.

The Upper East Side is the incarnation of the American Dream. Get a taste of what it feels like to live a glamorous lifestyle with a shopping trip on Fifth Avenue, also known as the ‘Boulevard of Golden Credit Cards’ and home to stores like Tiffany & Co and Bergdorf Goodman. Many famous museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art are also situated here, one of the richest parts of the city. Some museums offer special ‘pay what you wish’ days, so choose the day of your visit wisely! If the clerk of the weather is on your side, you can also rent a bicycle and tour around Central Park. Take time to stop at the Loeb Boathouse for a meal and a romantic ambience by the lake. Happy exploring!