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Dreaming of a long weekend in one of England’s most historic cities? We’ve got just the itinerary for you!
With its medieval streets, grand cathedral, and rich layers of history, York offers an experience that’s both immersive and easy to navigate. We’ve wandered its cobbled lanes, stepped through centuries-old gates, and explored beyond the city walls into the dramatic landscapes of the North York Moors.
This three-day itinerary blends guided history walks, time to explore at your own pace, and a full-day countryside adventure, ending with a thrilling ghost tour after dark. Whether you’re here for the architecture, the legends, or the Yorkshire flavors, our plan ensures you’ll make the most of every moment. Let’s dive into the perfect York getaway!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in York was this full-day tour to Whitby and the North York Moors. We explored historic villages, saw stunning views in the North York Moors National Park, enjoyed coastal views in Whitby, and toured the historic Abbey!
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Itinerary Overview
- Day 1
- Day 2
- Day 3
- Where to Stay in York
- Thanks for reading!
- Stay safe in Europe & avoid scams!
- Renting a Car in the UK
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Itinerary Overview
York is a compact, walkable city, perfect for exploring on foot without the hassle of driving or figuring out complex transport. This three-day itinerary keeps most activities within the historic center, where cobbled streets, medieval gates, and charming squares are all within minutes of each other.
For countryside adventures, we’ve included small-group guided tours with transport, so there’s no need to rent a car. Taxis are available if needed, but everything is planned to be easy and stress-free. Over three days, you’ll enjoy hearty breakfasts, guided history tours, and relaxing evenings.
Day 1: Start with breakfast at Brew & Brownie, then take a private walking tour of York’s highlights. Enjoy lunch at Guy Fawkes Inn, browse Shambles Market or historic sites, walk the City Walls at golden hour, and end with dinner at The Cut & Craft York.
Day 2: Spend the day on a small group Yorkshire Moors & Whitby tour to see charming and historic villages. Return for riverside dining at The Star Inn The City, then take a peaceful evening stroll along the water to Lendal Bridge.
Day 3: Enjoy breakfast at Bar Hashery, then choose between art and gardens or a chocolate and wizard-themed experience. After lunch at Lendal Cellars, shop or visit York Castle Museum, then enjoy a relaxed dinner at Cosy Club before a private ghost tour.
Day 1
Breakfast – Brew & Brownie
Start your York adventure with a hearty breakfast at Brew & Brownie, a small but hugely popular café known for its fluffy American-style pancakes, locally sourced breakfasts, and artisan coffee. Doors open at 8:30 am on weekdays and 9 am on weekends, and you’ll want to arrive early to snag a table in its warm, rustic space. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to linger, but a quick order ahead can save time.
Just a 3–4 minute walk from where this morning’s tour starts at York Minster, it’s the perfect spot. Aim to finish and leave about 10 minutes early so you can get there without rushing. Whether you go sweet with pancakes or savory with eggs and sourdough, Brew & Brownie is the ideal fuel for a day of exploring York’s history and charm!
Morning – Deep dive into York’s past with a private walking tour
After breakfast, dive straight into York’s rich history with this private walking tour! We recommend booking the 10 am slot so you have the morning to explore at an unhurried pace. Lasting 2–3 hours, this tour goes far beyond the usual photo stops, giving you a deeper understanding of the city’s layered past.
Our guide, Chris, had a real talent for storytelling, weaving together centuries of history in a way that made each site come alive. From the grandeur of York Minster, where we paused to admire the intricate stained glass, to the haunting ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey, his knowledge and passion were infectious.
In the Shambles, instead of a quick pass-through, Chris shared fascinating medieval details and hidden facts about this iconic 14th-century street. And at Clifford’s Tower, his retelling of the tragic events that happened there gave us a deeper appreciation for York’s more somber chapters.
What made this tour so special was how personalized it felt. Chris tailored the route to our interests and shared insights we’d never have uncovered on our own.
Whether it’s your first time in York or your fifth, you’re guaranteed to learn something new. Check out over a THOUSAND five-star reviews here to see why this tour ranks among the best in York!
Book this top-rated walking tour here if spots are still available!
Lunch – Guy Fawkes Inn
By the time your walking tour wraps up, you’ll be ready for a hearty meal, and Guy Fawkes Inn is just steps away. Aim to arrive around 12:30 or 1 pm for a well-earned lunch in this historic pub, located in the actual birthplace of Guy Fawkes. Inside, you’ll find low-beamed ceilings, flickering candles, and a cozy, old-world charm that makes it feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
The menu leans heavily into traditional Yorkshire fare, so it’s the perfect chance to try classics like steak and ale pie, Yorkshire puddings, or fish and chips. Pair your meal with a local brew or a warming cider, and you’ll be set for the afternoon ahead. While reservations aren’t strictly necessary, it’s worth booking ahead here if you want to guarantee a spot in this popular spot, especially on weekends.
Afternoon – Free time to explore at your own pace
After lunch, you’ll have a few hours—roughly from 2 pm to 5 pm, depending on how long lunch takes—to wander York at your own pace. This is the perfect window to slow down, follow your curiosity, and enjoy a mix of shopping, hidden history, and charming side streets. You can choose to stick to the bustling heart of the city or venture just off the main paths to discover quieter corners that many visitors miss.
Browse York’s iconic Shambles Market
Start with a stroll through Shambles Market, an open-air collection of stalls nestled among winding lanes and half-timbered buildings. You’ll find everything from local crafts and handmade jewelry to freshly baked treats and gourmet goods. It’s easy to lose an hour here as you browse and chat with friendly stall owners. Even if you’re not looking to buy, the lively atmosphere and photo-worthy setting make it well worth a visit.
Grab a snack to enjoy as you wander, or pick up a few small souvenirs to remember your trip. The market’s central location also makes it easy to pop back later in your visit if something catches your eye.
Visit Barley Hall or the Treasurer’s House
For a dose of history away from the crowds, pick one (or both!) of these tucked-away gems. Barley Hall is a beautifully restored medieval townhouse where you can step into the 15th century through interactive exhibits and period furnishings. Once a forgotten ruin, it’s now brought vividly back to life, complete with authentic medieval smells and sounds.
Treasurer’s House, on the other hand, offers elegant interiors and an intriguing reputation for ghost stories. It’s said Roman soldiers have been spotted here! The atmospheric cellar tours are especially popular with those curious about York’s supernatural side. Either choice will give you a fascinating glimpse into York’s past while offering a peaceful break from the busier streets.
Evening – Walk a stretch of the City Walls at golden hour
Before dinner, take a short stroll to Bootham Bar, one of the gateways to York’s medieval City Walls. This stretch offers some of the best views in the city, especially at golden hour when the rooftops glow and the Minster is bathed in soft light. The walk is short but scenic, with benches and rest spots if you want to pause and take it all in. Entry is free, and with the walls open until dusk, it’s the perfect early-evening activity before heading to your dinner reservation.
Dinner – The Cut & Craft York
After your walk, end your first day in York with a memorable meal at The Cut & Craft York, a chic brasserie-style restaurant that’s as much about the atmosphere as it is the food. With soaring ceilings, statement lighting, and a stylish yet comfortable buzz, it’s the kind of place you’ll want to linger over dinner.
The signature flat iron steak is a standout, served perfectly cooked and paired with elegant sides, though the rotating specials are also worth a look. It’s best to reserve a table here ahead of time—this spot is popular with both locals and visitors, especially in the evenings. Whether you’re celebrating the day’s adventures or simply treating yourself, The Cut & Craft delivers on flavor, style, and service.
Day 2
Full day – Explore the North York Moors & Whitby with a small group tour
If you want to see a wilder, more dramatic side of Yorkshire, this Yorkshire Moors and Whitby day tour is the way to do it. The rolling, windswept landscapes of the Moors feel almost otherworldly, and this full-day experience makes it easy to experience them without worrying about driving or planning the route yourself.
Be sure to grab breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café before meeting the tour at 9 am, and then sit back and enjoy one of the most rewarding day trips you can take from York.
Our guide, Mark, brought the day to life with stories and local history as we passed through picture-perfect villages like Hutton-le-Hole and even pointed out filming spots from the Harry Potter movies along the way.
The scenery was at its most breathtaking at Blakey Ridge, where the views stretched endlessly over the rugged countryside. In Whitby, you’ll have two hours to explore—plenty of time to climb up to Whitby Abbey, wander cobbled lanes, and enjoy classic fish and chips by the sea. One of the highlights was visiting Goathland, instantly recognizable to Harry Potter fans as the “Hogwarts Express.”
Whether you’re here for the history or the scenery, it packs a lot into one day—centuries-old villages, iconic coastlines, sweeping moorland, and a touch of movie magic! We aren’t the only ones who think so, just read the 500+ 5-star reviews here!
Book our FAVORITE Yorkshire tour here and get free 24-hour cancellation!
Dinner – The Star Inn The City
After returning from your day tour, you’ll be just a three-minute walk from The Star Inn The City, making it an easy and elegant choice for dinner. This stylish riverside restaurant is known for showcasing seasonal Yorkshire ingredients in creative, beautifully plated dishes.
We recommend reserving a table here for about 6:30 pm, giving you time to freshen up or grab a coffee from a nearby café before settling in. Whether you opt for fresh seafood, locally sourced meats, or a vegetarian special, the menu feels refined yet approachable, with service to match. It’s the perfect place to toast the end of a day spent exploring some of Yorkshire’s most stunning landscapes.
Evening – A short riverside stroll at dusk
Once dinner wraps up, a gentle riverside walk is the perfect nightcap. The flat, paved path along the water is dotted with benches, inviting you to pause and take in the calm evening air. Head toward Lendal Bridge, where you’ll get a postcard-worthy view of York Minster illuminated against the night sky. It’s a peaceful way to wind down after a full day—quiet enough to feel worlds away from the bustle, yet close enough to the city’s heart that you’re never far from the charm of York at night.
Day 3
Breakfast – Bar Hashery
Tucked along a charming stretch of Goodramgate, Bar Hashery is the perfect spot to ease into your final day in York. Opening at 8 am, we recommend arriving around 8:30–9 am so you have plenty of time to enjoy breakfast before the morning’s activities.
This laid-back brunch café serves generous plates that will keep you fueled well into the day—think hearty bacon butties, fresh pastries, and perfectly brewed coffee. Whether you’re in the mood for something indulgent or just a simple, satisfying start, Bar Hashery’s friendly vibe and comforting menu make it a great choice for a relaxed morning.
Morning – Art and abbey ruins or a little chocolate-fueled magic – you decide!
For your last morning in York, we’re giving you a choice between two very different, but equally memorable experiences. You can start your day with a dose of culture and history in the Museum Gardens, or opt for something a little sweeter and more whimsical with a chocolate tour and a wizard-themed drink. Either way, both options fit nicely into a 10 am–12 pm window, leaving time for a relaxed lunch before your afternoon plans.
Option 1: York Art Gallery + Museum Gardens
If you’re in the mood for art and a peaceful wander outdoors, book the 10 am slot at York Art Gallery. Tickets are around £8.50 ($11 USD), and it’s best to reserve on their website here ahead of time. Keep in mind the gallery is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Inside, you’ll find rotating exhibitions that span everything from classical paintings to bold contemporary pieces, along with one of the UK’s most impressive ceramics collections. When you’ve finished exploring, step outside into the Museum Gardens, a leafy oasis right in the heart of the city. Here, you can stroll shaded pathways, admire the flowerbeds, and pause among the atmospheric ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey before moving on.
Option 2: Chocolate tasting and a magical potion stop
If you’d prefer something a little more indulgent, or it’s Monday or Tuesday, make your way toward the Shambles for York’s Chocolate Story. This experience takes you through the city’s rich chocolate-making heritage, complete with delicious samples along the way. Book the classic guided tour here (admission for £16 or about $20 USD). It’s a fun, hands-on way to experience one of York’s most famous traditions.
Once your sweet tooth is satisfied, head to The Potions Cauldron, a tiny wizard-themed shop that feels straight out of a fantasy novel. Order one of their bubbling drinks, snap a few magical photos, and enjoy a playful break before lunch.
Lunch – Lendal Cellars
After your morning exploring, head to Lendal Cellars, tucked inside the vaulted cellar of a former Dominican friary. A local favorite, it serves up hearty British classics like fish and chips, steak and ale pie, and seasonal roasts, alongside lighter options such as fresh salads and veggie burgers.
The space is surprisingly large, with cozy corners perfect for smaller groups and a garden terrace that’s a treat if the weather cooperates. With no need to reserve, it’s an easy, welcoming choice to refuel before you continue your final afternoon in York.
Afternoon – Free time for last-minute shopping or a museum
From about 2 pm to 5 pm, enjoy a relaxed final afternoon in York. You can use this time to browse for any last-minute gifts or souvenirs, or head indoors for one more deep dive into the city’s history. Whether you prefer strolling the shops or exploring a museum, this is your chance to round out your trip with something you’ve been meaning to see.
Pick up final gifts at York Gin or the Shambles Market
If shopping’s on your mind, start at York Gin, where you can sample a few varieties before choosing from beautifully packaged bottles and tasting sets to take home. Staff are happy to talk you through the different botanicals so you can find the perfect flavor match.
The Shambles Market is also worth another stop if you didn’t get enough on day one. Its stalls are packed with local crafts, handmade soaps, jewelry, and British-themed keepsakes that make thoughtful mementos. You might even catch live music or street performances here, adding to its vibrant atmosphere. Even if you’re just browsing, both spots offer a lively and distinctly York experience.
Visit the York Castle Museum
For a quieter, more immersive afternoon, head to the York Castle Museum. This fascinating museum brings the city’s history to life through engaging exhibits on York’s Victorian past, fashion through the ages, and even recreated historic streets that feel like stepping back in time. You can wander cobblestone lanes under the glow of old-fashioned shopfronts, pausing to peek inside recreated homes and stores.
Tickets are around £18 ($23 USD) per person, and it’s an ideal choice if the weather turns or you’re in the mood for something more reflective before the day winds down.
Dinner – Cosy Cub
For your final dinner in York, head to Cosy Club, set inside the city’s first-ever cinema on charming Fossgate. With its vintage-inspired décor, warm lighting, and art deco details, it strikes the perfect balance between relaxed and special, and it’s only about a 10-minute walk from the museum and even less from the market. Aim to reserve for around 6 or 6:30 pm so you have time to enjoy your meal before the ghost tour at about 8 pm.
The menu is varied enough to suit all tastes—think small plates, hearty mains like steaks and burgers, vegetarian and vegan choices, and a tempting dessert list. Their signature beverages are just as impressive, making them a great pick for one last toast to your York adventure. While you might be able to walk in, booking ahead here is recommended to secure a table, especially on weekends.
Evening – End your trip on a spooky note with a private ghost tour
There’s no better way to close out your York adventure than by exploring its shadowy corners and centuries-old legends. After your meal, meet your guide at a haunted location of your choice or right outside your restaurant for this private ghost tour. It starts around 8 pm, though you can arrange a flexible start time between 7 and 9 pm to suit your dinner plans.
Our guide, John, was more historian than performer, which made the stories feel all the more real. Although we’d visited some of these spots earlier in the trip, seeing them after dark, paired with John’s chilling, true-to-history accounts, made them feel entirely different, as if we were stepping into an alternate, more mysterious version of York.
The Shambles, which feels whimsical by day, took on an entirely different mood at night as John described its butcher-shop history. Standing beneath Clifford’s Tower, we heard the sobering account of the 12th-century massacre of York’s Jewish community, a chilling moment made even more haunting under the glow of the floodlights.
The night’s most unforgettable stop was the Treasurer’s House, home to York’s most famous ghost sighting: an entire legion of Roman soldiers reportedly marching through the cellar. The way John told it, we could almost hear the echo of boots on stone!
With dozens of five-star reviews here praising its depth, storytelling, and historical accuracy, this tour stands out as one of York’s most compelling experiences. It’s a fascinating, goosebump-inducing way to bid farewell to the city!
Grab your private ghost tour here before spots disappear!
Related Read: Need a few more activities to add to your itinerary? Check out our top things to do in York here for more memorable experiences!
Where to Stay in York
Now that you have a full York itinerary, you need somewhere perfect to stay. Luckily, there’s no shortage of them in this gorgeous, historic city. I would definitely recommend staying somewhere central, as that way you’ll be close to the action and qualify for hotel pickup or meet-up for many of the above tours. If these hotels are still available when you’re ready to book, they will be your best options!
Luxury – $$$
The Grand York certainly lives up to its name! It’s a gorgeous, historic property with spacious marble bathrooms and big, marshmallow soft beds. I think it would be ideal for a romantic city break, but really it’s a must for anyone who’s craving the VIP treatment.
Meanwhile, the heated indoor pool, wellness spa, and elegant Rise restaurant ensure that every moment you spend here feels like a dream! You might struggle to tear yourself away, although if you do manage it, then the Micklegate Bar, Deans Park, and the Jorvik Viking Centre are just a short stroll away.
Double or twin rooms here cost between £180 and £350 per night. Check prices and secure your stay at Booking.com!
Mid-range – $$
If you’re looking for a luxury stay in York that won’t break the bank, then look no further than Middletons! It’s a gorgeous property that just oozes that quaint, old English charm. And you don’t just get a room here, you get your very own cottage—how cool is that?
Even though it’s less than a 10-minute walk from major attractions like Clifford’s Tower and the York Dungeon, it’s super quiet and feels like a country retreat. The property also has a very interesting history, and if you stay here, the friendly staff will be more than happy to tell you about it!
Garden view cottages here start from £130 per night. Check prices and book your stay here!
Budget – $
If you’re looking for a great budget stay in York, Burton Stone Inn offers a clean and comfy stay for a great price. Oh, and did I mention that York Minster is just a 10-minute walk away? Yup, despite being one of the most affordable choices around, this charming property is super central.
With cozy yet stylish rooms, it will be your home away from home. And with a range of room options and sizes, you can find the perfect fit. Don’t skip out on breakfast either, it is one of the highlights!
Rooms typically cost between £70 and £125 per night. Check prices and availability here!
For more options, check out all of the listed stays in York City Center here!
Renting a Car in the UK
Renting a car in the UK is a fantastic way to explore beyond the cities—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the United Kingdom
- Drive on the left: In the UK, vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road. This means the driver’s seat is on the right, and you’ll need to adjust to roundabouts and different road layouts. Take some time to get comfortable before hitting busy roads.
- Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a ding in a parking lot or a chipped windshield on a rural road, having full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable with Discover Cars!
- Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in the UK are manual transmission, and automatic cars are limited—so book early if that’s what you need. Also, a compact car is great for narrow village roads or tight city parking. With Discover Cars, it’s super easy to filter for exactly what you need.
- City driving & zones: Cities like London and Birmingham have congestion charges and LEZs (low-emission zones). Double-check before entering—some zones require advance registration or payment.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the UK
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If your license isn’t in English or doesn’t use Latin characters, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the UK on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
We hope this three-day York itinerary is helpful as you plan your trip! We loved exploring the historic city and all of its charming hidden gems. Whether you’re enjoying a day trip to see more of the UK, learning about these old streets, or enjoying a traditional pub, you’re sure to see the best of York.
Need help planning more of your travels? Check out the rest of our UK blogs! As long-time travelers, we’ve put together a ton of resources for a memorable trip. Here are a few related reads to get you started – cheers!
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