- This is part of a growing series of opinionated guides which offer no-nonsense insider's advice on what to do and see in cities around the world

The original metropolis, the city of cities: New York is mythic in stature and impossible to pin down. The planet's most surreal urban experiment is a dizzying feast of iridescent skyscrapers, iconic landmarks and heavyweight cultural institutions - it's irresistible, even if all you can afford is a bagel and a walk through Central Park. Luckily, we've got the inside scoop on the island's most treasured local delis, historic bookshops, memorable bars and beloved neighborhoods - Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens and Staten / From the Battery to the top of Manhattan.