Manhattan: Tours and Guided Visits

Manhattan is a world-famous island where culture and commerce collide, classified as one of New York City’s boroughs.

Home to the Empire State Building, Broadway, Time Square, Central Park and many other iconic attractions, Manhattan has provided the backdrop for dozens of much-loved movies over the years.

Its famous neighborhoods include SoHo, Little Italy, Harlem and Greenwich Village, just to name a few. Enjoy a Manhattan tour with a local tour guide and get to know more about New York's most popular borough.

You will find below all you need to know about Manhattan, one of the best destinations for sightseeing tours in New York City.

Where is Manhattan located?

Manhattan is over a 20-kilometer-long narrow island, centrally located just 30 kilometers northwest of JFK Airport.

Three rivers surround Manhattan, namely the Hudson River, the Harlem River and the East River.

The island is connected to the mainland by over 20 bridges and around 15 tunnels, so getting there is easy no matter where in New York you’re coming from. One of Manhattan's neighborhoods, Marble Hill, spills over onto the mainland.

What are the major highlights in Manhattan?

Home to dozens of iconic attractions and landmarks, there is no shortage of places to see and things to do in Manhattan.

Manhattan is an exceptionally diverse place and provides points of interest for those passionate about media, culture, commerce, nature and more.

Central Park

Central Park is often referred to as ‘the lungs of New York”. A visit to Manhattan would be incomplete without a stroll in Central Park.

There’s always something interesting happening in Central Park and a walk through it is never boring, with attractions such as Belvedere Castle.

Time Square

Even if you have never visited Time Square before, you’d probably be able to instantly recognize it. This is because Time Square has been a filming location for hundreds of sitcoms and movie scenes.

Time Square is extremely busy almost all of the time and can be quite overwhelming for the senses, but it is a must-see location despite the hustle and bustle.

Grand Central Station

Grand Central Station is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful train stations in the world. The architecture is absolutely mesmerizing. While a visit to a train station may not be a priority for every tourist, Grand Central Station is definitely worth it.

The Museum of Modern Art

Located in the heart of Manhattan, the Museum of Modern Art is home to the largest modern art collection in the world.

You can spend time appreciating works by Frida Kahlo, Vincent Van Gogh and Andy Warhol, among others.

What are the best tours in Manhattan?

There are dozens of different tours of Manhattan, and there is really something to suit every interest. Get to know Manhattan on a deeper level with one of these top-rated tours.

Helicopter tour in Manhattan

Avoid the crowds and view Manhattan’s iconic skyline from above. A helicopter tour is an ideal way to experience Manhattan and get an idea of the island’s layout.

You’ll get to see quintessential landmarks such as Central Park and the Empire State Building during your flight. Helicopter tours in Manhattan last between 15 minutes and 30 minutes.

Private walking tour in Manhattan

Customize your walking tour to suit your specific interests in this 3-hour private walking tour in Manhattan. Enjoy a free pickup from select hotels and meet your local guide, who will be able to answer any questions that you may have about Manhattan.

Visit iconic landmarks in Manhattan, and stay longer at the attractions that interest you most.

Manhattan architecture yacht cruise

Hop aboard a 1920s-style teak yacht and learn about Manhattan's famous architecture from the water. Enjoy commentary from a member of the American Institute of Architects New York Chapter.

See the iconic skyline from a different perspective on this 3-hour architecture yacht cruise in Manhattan.

Lower Manhattan running tour

Want to stay on top of your fitness while on holiday? You may enjoy a running tour of Lower Manhattan.

Enjoy a 2-hour jog around the area with a local guide and learn interesting facts about the neighborhoods and various landmarks you’ll pass by. You’ll also get time to stop, take photographs and catch your breath.

What are the prices of Manhattan tours?

Lower Manhattan running tours cost US$40 per person.

Helicopter tours of Manhattan usually cost around US$200 per person for 15 minutes, and around US$350 per person for 30 minutes.

Private customized walking tours in Manhattan cost US$65 per person.

Architecture yacht cruises cost roughly US$100 per person.

Keep in mind that there are dozens of Manhattan tours available. Some of them are free and work on a tip basis, while some luxury tours cost as much as US$800 per group of up to seven people.

Where do Manhattan tours start?

Most helicopter tours of Manhattan begin at Downtown Manhattan Heliport.

The architecture yacht cruises begin at the Chelsea Piers, on Pier 62.

The Lower Manhattan running tour begins on South Street.

Private tours in Manhattan often include a hotel pickup.

When is the best time to visit Manhattan?

The best time to visit Manhattan will depend on what activities you want to partake in.

If you don’t mind snow, December is a fantastic time to visit Manhattan, as you’ll get to see all the Christmas lights and enjoy festive activities.

If you’d prefer warmer temperatures and want to partake in water activities around the island, it may be best to visit between June and August.

It is best to book a Manhattan tour at the beginning of your stay in Manhattan. This way, you’ll gain a better understanding of the area that may be useful for the rest of your trip.

Travel tips

• Manhattan is a popular tourist destination, so be sure to book your tour ahead of time.
• Bring along your camera to capture the heart and soul of Manhattan.
• Wear comfortable shoes and clothes, as many Manhattan tours involve walking.
• Tipping your guide is not mandatory, but it is welcomed if you have a good time on your tour.