York 2 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Exploring the Historic City of York
Morning:
- Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Bettys Cafe Tea Rooms, a traditional Yorkshire tea room famous for its afternoon tea and cakes.
- Visit the iconic York Minster, the largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe, and explore its stunning interior. (Admission fee applies)
Afternoon:
- Wander through the medieval streets of the Shambles, one of the best-preserved medieval streets in Europe. Don’t forget to visit the Jorvik Viking Centre to learn about York’s Viking history.
- Take a stroll along the city walls, offering panoramic views of York and its surroundings.
Evening:
- For dinner, try the contemporary British cuisine at The Star Inn The City, located within the city walls.
- End your day with a relaxing drink at the stylish Cow & Cow Outlaw or the trendy Evil Eye Lounge.
Day 2: Discovering Modern York
Morning:
- Start your day with brunch at the hip and friendly Pret a Diner, just off the city centre.
- Visit the interactive National Railway Museum, home to some of the world’s most famous trains, including the Flying Scotsman. (Free admission)
Afternoon:
- Explore the trendy quarter of Bishopthorpe Road. Visit independent shops, cafes, and art galleries, or grab a coffee at Grumpy Mule.
- Take a river cruise with YorkBoat to see the city from a different perspective.
Evening:
- For dinner, try the innovative and seasonal dishes at Skosh.
- Wind down your day with a visit to the underground Whirligig Gallery or a drink at the speakeasy-style Basement Bar at The Maltings Hotel.
Things to Know:
- York is a compact city, and most attractions are within walking distance. However, the city also has an excellent bus network (York Buses) and bike rental options (City Bike Hire).
- York is famous for its chocolate, especially the traditional KitKat and the locally produced Stockton’s Chocolates. Don’t forget to try some!
- The city centre can get quite busy, especially during peak tourist seasons. Consider visiting earlier in the day or later in the evening to avoid the crowds.
- For those interested in beer, York has a vibrant craft beer scene. Check out microbreweries such as York Brewery and North Brewing Co.
Where to Stay:
- Maldron Hotel York - A modern hotel in the city centre, with comfortable rooms and a great breakfast buffet.
- Grange Hotel, York - A historic hotel located near the city walls, offering spacious rooms and a lovely restaurant.
- The Parsonage Hotel & Spa - A charming boutique hotel with an award-winning restaurant and a luxurious spa in the nearby village of Kirk Deighton.