New York City 14-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive in New York City

Arrive at JFK or Newark Liberty International Airport from France.

After clearing customs, take a taxi, shuttle, or public transport to your hotel in Manhattan. Check in and settle in.

Consider pre-booking an airport transfer for ease after a long flight.

Hotel Check-in

Check into your luxurious hotel in Chelsea.

Times Square Immersion

Experience the dazzling lights and vibrant energy of Times Square.

A quintessential NYC experience.

Dinner in Midtown

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the Theater District or Hell's Kitchen, offering a wide array of dining options.

New York Public Library

Visit the monumental main branch of the New York Public Library, known for its stunning architecture and remarkable historical collections.

Explore the Rose Main Reading Room.

Admission is free. Check for guided tour schedules.

Radio City Music Hall Tour

Take a guided tour of the legendary Radio City Music Hall, a true Art Deco masterpiece and home to the Rockettes.

Tours run daily.

Lunch near Midtown East

Grab a casual lunch near your morning activities.

Museum Mile Exploration

Walk along 5th Avenue and visit a museum of your choice from the 'Museum Mile'.

Consider The Met, Guggenheim, or Cooper Hewitt. While the festival itself is typically in June, this area remains a cultural hub.

Check individual museum opening hours and admission fees. Some may offer free entry on certain days/evenings.

Evening Performance at New York City Center

Catch a performance at the New York City Center.

Check their schedule for ballet, dance, or musical theater productions.

Book tickets well in advance, especially for popular shows. Price varies based on seat and show.

The National 9/11 Memorial & Museum

Visit the solemn and powerful National September 11 Memorial & Museum to honor the victims and learn about the events of that day.

Book tickets online in advance to ensure entry and to choose a specific time slot.

One World Trade Center (Observatory)

Ascend to the One World Observatory for breathtaking panoramic views of New York City, the harbor, and beyond.

Book tickets online in advance to save time.

Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

Take a leisurely walk across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, enjoying stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River.

Wear comfortable shoes. Access from Manhattan via Park Row or Centre Street.

Explore Dumbo & Brooklyn Bridge Park

After crossing the bridge, explore the charming Dumbo (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) neighborhood and stroll through Brooklyn Bridge Park for more iconic photo opportunities.

Dinner in Brooklyn

Enjoy dinner in Dumbo or another Brooklyn neighborhood, known for its diverse culinary scene.

Morning Stroll in Central Park

Enjoy a relaxed morning exploring Central Park.

Visit iconic spots like Bethesda Terrace, Strawberry Fields, or take a rowboat out on The Lake.

Lunch on Upper West Side

Have lunch in the Upper West Side neighborhood, known for its charming cafes and diverse eateries.

USA Guided Tours New York

Embark on a comprehensive guided tour of New York City, offering a comfortable and educational approach to discovering the city's highlights.

Price varies depending on the specific tour chosen (bus, walking, etc.). Book directly from their website for the best options.

M&M's Store New York

Visit the vibrant two-story M&M's store in Times Square, a fun and colorful experience, especially if you have a sweet tooth!

Dinner in Theater District

Enjoy dinner in the lively Theater District, perhaps a pre-show meal if you decide to catch another Broadway show (not planned for tonight but an option).

Travel to Hudson Valley

Take the Metro-North train from Grand Central Terminal north to a charming Hudson Valley town like Cold Spring or Beacon.

Enjoy the scenic journey along the Hudson River.

Purchase round-trip tickets at Grand Central. Check train schedules in advance.

Explore Cold Spring

Stroll through the picturesque village of Cold Spring, browse antique shops, and enjoy views of the Hudson River.

Hiking Breakneck Ridge (Optional)

For the adventurous, embark on a challenging but rewarding hike up Breakneck Ridge for breathtaking panoramic views of the Hudson River. Alternatively, enjoy an easier walk along the riverfront.

This hike is strenuous; wear appropriate footwear and bring water. There are easier walking paths if prefer a more relaxed experience.

Late Lunch in Cold Spring

Enjoy a well-deserved late lunch or early dinner at a local eatery in Cold Spring.

Return to New York City

Take the Metro-North train back to Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan.

Relax and enjoy the evening views as you head back to the city.

Arrive in Rio de Janeiro

Arrive at Galeão International Airport (GIG), clear customs, and take a taxi or pre-booked transfer to your hotel in Copacabana or Ipanema.

Hotel Check-in & Refresh

Check into your hotel, settle in, and take some time to refresh after your journey from New York.

Beachside Lunch

Enjoy a casual lunch at a beachfront kiosk or restaurant along Copacabana beach, savoring local flavors.

Relax at Copacabana Beach

Spend the afternoon relaxing on the iconic sands of Copacabana Beach.

You can swim, sunbathe, or take a leisurely stroll along the 'calçadão' (promenade) and admire the mosaic sidewalks.

Rent chairs and umbrellas from vendors on the beach for convenience. Keep an eye on your belongings.

Sunset Stroll & Drinks

Enjoy a sunset stroll along the beach or find a spot at a beach bar for a refreshing caipirinha as evening descends.

Dinner in Copacabana

Dine at a restaurant in the Copacabana neighborhood, offering a variety of Brazilian and international cuisine.

Sugarloaf Mountain Visit

Take the scenic cable car ride up Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar) for breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Rio, including Copacabana, Christ the Redeemer, and Guanabara Bay.

Go early to avoid longer queues. Wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen.

Lunch in Urca

Have lunch in the charming, quiet neighborhood of Urca, known for its relaxed atmosphere and excellent seafood restaurants.

Urca Promenade Walk

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the 'Pista Cláudio Coutinho' trail at the base of Sugarloaf Mountain, offering beautiful views and a peaceful escape.

Easy, flat walk suitable for all fitness levels. Look out for small monkeys!

Botanical Garden

Explore the lush Jardim Botânico, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, featuring diverse plant species, royal palms, and orchid houses.

A tranquil oasis perfect for an afternoon stroll. Closes at 6:00 PM.

Dinner in Leblon

Head to Leblon, an upscale neighborhood adjacent to Ipanema, known for its sophisticated restaurants and vibrant nightlife.

Christ the Redeemer Visit

Take the Corcovado Train through Tijuca Forest up to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue.

Enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the city below.

Book tickets in advance online to secure your time slot, especially on a Tuesday to avoid crowds. The train ride itself is scenic.

Lunch in Santa Teresa

Descend to the bohemian neighborhood of Santa Teresa and enjoy lunch at one of its charming local restaurants.

Explore Santa Teresa

Wander the winding, cobbled streets of Santa Teresa, discover local art studios, galleries, and enjoy the relaxed, artistic vibe. Consider riding the historic tram (bondinho) if it's operational in the area.

Wear comfortable walking shoes as the streets are steep. Many artisan shops offer unique souvenirs.

Visit Selarón Steps

Marvel at the vibrant and intricate Escadaria Selarón, the famous mosaic-tiled steps created by Chilean artist Jorge Selarón, connecting Santa Teresa with Lapa.

A popular photo spot, so expect crowds. Mind your belongings.

Dinner in Lapa

Experience the vibrant Lapa neighborhood for dinner.

While Lapa is best known for its nightlife, there are many great restaurants for an evening meal.

Ipanema Beach Morning

Spend the morning at Ipanema Beach, famous for its beauty and the 'Girl from Ipanema' song.

Enjoy the sun, people-watching, and the vibrant atmosphere.

The beach is divided into 'postos' (posts), each with a different vibe. Posto 9 is particularly popular.

Lunch in Ipanema

Have lunch at one of Ipanema's many cafes or restaurants, offering a mix of healthy and traditional Brazilian options.

Arpoador Rock Views

Walk to Arpoador Rock, located between Ipanema and Copacabana, offering spectacular views of both beaches and the Dois Irmãos (Two Brothers) mountains.

Known for its incredible sunset views, but beautiful at any time of day.

Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas

Visit Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, a large lagoon surrounded by a scenic bike path.

You can rent a bike, try a pedal boat, or simply enjoy a relaxing walk around its perimeter.

A popular spot for locals to exercise and socialize. The 'Parque da Catacumba' nearby offers easy hiking trails and art installations.

Dinner & Evening in Ipanema

Enjoy dinner in Ipanema, perhaps exploring some of its boutique shops or enjoying a final caipirinha at a local bar.

Metropolitan Cathedral

Visit the unique conical Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Sebastian, an architectural marvel inspired by Mayan pyramids.

The interior is surprisingly spacious and features four stunning stained-glass windows stretching 64 meters from floor to ceiling.

Royal Portuguese Reading Room

Explore the Real Gabinete Português de Leitura, a magnificent library known for its stunning Neo-Manueline architecture and vast collection of Portuguese literature.

It feels like stepping into a Harry Potter movie.

Free entry. A true hidden gem for book lovers and architecture enthusiasts.

Lunch in Downtown Rio

Enjoy a traditional Brazilian lunch in the bustling downtown area.

Look for 'Comida por Quilo' (pay-by-weight) restaurants for a local experience.

Olympic Boulevard & Kobra Mural

Walk along the revitalized Olympic Boulevard (Porto Maravilha) and admire Eduardo Kobra's colossal 'Ethnicities' mural, one of the world's largest street art pieces.

Explore the Museum of Tomorrow area.

A great area for contemporary art and urban revitalization. The Museum of Tomorrow itself is also a worthwhile visit if time permits.

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

Head back to your hotel's neighborhood or a local market for some last-minute souvenir shopping, perhaps for Brazilian handicrafts, coffee, or cachaça.

Relax & Prepare for Departure

Return to your hotel to relax, pack, and prepare for your flight to Foz do Iguaçu tomorrow.

Farewell Dinner in Rio

Enjoy a final dinner in Rio, perhaps at a churrascaria (Brazilian steakhouse) for a traditional farewell feast.

Flight to Foz do Iguaçu

Take a domestic flight from Rio de Janeiro (GIG/SDU) to Foz do Iguaçu (IGU).

Enjoy the scenic views as you transition to the heart of South America's natural wonders.

Hotel Check-in & Relax

Check into your accommodation in Foz do Iguaçu.

Take some time to settle in and relax after your journey.

Welcome Dinner

Enjoy a traditional Brazilian dinner at a local churrascaria or restaurant, sampling regional dishes.

Iguazu Falls (Brazilian Side)

Explore the panoramic views of Iguazu Falls from the Brazilian side.

The trail offers stunning vistas of the entire falls system, culminating in a walkway leading right up to the Devil's Throat.

Wear comfortable shoes and rain gear (or be prepared to get wet from the mist). Buses inside the park transport visitors to various viewpoints. Arrive early to avoid crowds.

Parque das Aves (Bird Park)

Visit the Parque das Aves, an ecological sanctuary dedicated to the conservation of Atlantic Forest birds.

Walk through immense aviaries and get up close with colorful tropical birds.

Located just outside the entrance to the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls, making it convenient to combine with your falls visit.

Optional: Helicopter Tour over Falls

For a breathtaking perspective, consider an optional helicopter tour offering aerial views of Iguazu Falls and the surrounding rainforest.

Weather dependent. Book in advance if possible.

Churrascaria Dinner

Savor another authentic Brazilian churrascaria experience with a wide selection of grilled meats.

Iguazu Falls (Argentine Side)

Embark on a full-day excursion to the Argentine side of Iguazu Falls.

Explore numerous trails including the Upper Circuit, Lower Circuit, and the thrilling Devil's Throat walkway, which brings you directly over the roaring falls.

Remember your passport for border crossing. The Argentine side offers a more immersive experience with trails that get you closer to the water. Bring snacks and water. Consider a Gran Aventura boat trip for an exhilarating ride under the falls (extra cost).

Leisure Evening & Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a relaxed evening, perhaps a final stroll, souvenir shopping, and a farewell dinner to reflect on your incredible journey.

Leisurely Morning & Packing

Enjoy a final Brazilian breakfast at your hotel or a local café.

Use the morning to pack and prepare for your departure.

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

If time permits, grab some last-minute souvenirs to remember your trip to Brazil and Iguazu Falls.

Transfer to Foz do Iguaçu Airport

Check out from your hotel and arrange a transfer to Foz do Iguaçu International Airport (IGU) for your journey home.

Departure Flight to France

Board your international flight from Foz do Iguaçu back to France, concluding your 14-day adventure across New York and Brazil.

This will likely involve connecting flights.