City Centre Travel Guide
York





Visit City Centre
Popular places to visit

Shambles
This picturesque cobblestone street has a fascinating medieval history and crooked buildings that appear to almost fall into one another.

York Minster
The city’s emblem is known for its superb stained-glass windows, underground treasure chambers and tall tower with spectacular views.

Jorvik Viking Centre
Imagine yourself as a Viking in this museum that allows you to dig up Norse artifacts and witness reenactments, while you learn about York’s Scandinavian settlers.

York City Walls
See some of York’s most impressive sights on a walk around the historic perimeter wall that has its origins in the Roman era.

York Grand Opera House
Enjoy a show at York Grand Opera House, a theatre with a story to tell in York. Discover the fascinating museums and shops in this walkable area.

York Dungeon
Laugh, squirm and recoil at the ghastly torture methods and grisly crimes recreated in this prison-like museum where you can immerse yourself in macabre practices and living conditions of the Middle Ages.
Things to do

City Sightseeing York Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

York: Witches and History Old Town Walking Tour

From York: North Moors and Whitby Tour

York Audio Tour: Ghosts, History, and Chocolate

York: Golden Tours Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Bus Tour- 24 Hours Ticket
Top hotels in City Centre

Moxy York
Great atmosphere and amenities. Really enjoyed breakfast! Rooms clean and comfortable. Easy access to the centre. Definately coming back!
Reviewed on 21 Dec 2025

Hampton by Hilton York Piccadilly
Location of hotel was perfect
Reviewed on 21 Dec 2025

Hotel Indigo York by IHG
Breakfast was not the greatest. Not very hot.
Reviewed on 20 Dec 2025

Hilton York
Yes and yes
Reviewed on 20 Dec 2025

Impossible Motel
Great Location situated in center opposite Bettys tea rooms Had to change rooms due to broken toilet seat but staff were helpful and resolved issue No breakfast included but this was a plus as there are so many great places to eat breakfast / brunch only a few minutes walk away
Reviewed on 12 Dec 2025

Dean Court Hotel
Room was clean and adequate size
Reviewed on 22 Dec 2025
Other neighbourhoods around City Centre

Bishophill
If you're spending some time in Bishophill, Micklegate Bar and Yorvik Brass Rubbing Centre are top sights worth seeing.

Bootham
While visiting Bootham, you might make a stop by sights like Bootham Bar and York Theatre Royal.

Foss Islands
Though Foss Islands may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like York Barbican and Merchant Adventurers' Hall.
Layerthorpe
When in Layerthorpe, you can plan a visit to Merchant Taylors' Hall and Monk Bar, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

The Groves
If you're spending some time in The Groves, Clarence Gardens and Yearsley Pool are top sights worth seeing.

South Bank
While South Bank isn't home to many top sights, York Racecourse and Bar Convent Museum are some notable places to visit nearby.


