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 Christmas Market
During your visit to York, you can find the perfect gifts to bring home at York Christmas Market. Discover the area's fascinating museums or seek out its local tours.
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.
Things to do
City Sightseeing York Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
York: Witches and History Old Town Walking Tour
York Audio Tour: Ghosts, History, and Chocolate
York: Golden Tours Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Bus Tour- 24 Hours Ticket
York Historical Gems Tour & A Taste of York Chocolate
Top hotels in City Centre
Hampton by Hilton York Piccadilly
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Reviewed on 3 Feb 2026
Moxy York
Great hotel. Stayed here on a solo travel trip. Relaxing bar in the lobby and close to the main shopping/bar areas in York. Would stay here again.
Reviewed on 28 Jan 2026
Hilton York
Room lovely, clean and warm. Staff were all spot on. Great location as well.
Reviewed on 30 Jan 2026
Hotel Indigo York by IHG
Brilliant central location. Clean, trendy and great service from staff. Would stay here again for sure.
Reviewed on 2 Feb 2026
Holiday Inn York City Centre by IHG
I got in my room earlier than check in time which was really helpful, it was clean & tidy, plus all staff were friendly!
Reviewed on 13 Jan 2026
Impossible Motel
Nice room. Quirky
Reviewed on 25 Jan 2026
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 York Theatre Royal and St. Mary's Abbey.
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 Micklegate Bar are some notable places to visit nearby.
