If you’re not sure where to begin your New York shopping adventure, an excellent place to start is the iconic department store, Macy's. The 11-floor flagship store located in Herald Square—just south of Times Square and a hop, skip, and a jump from the Empire State Building and Penn Station—is home to an enormous selection of fashion items, the hottest new gifts, products for family and home, great sales, and much more. Broadway at 34th St., 212-494-2922; macys.com.

The famed toy emporium FAO Schwarz’s flagship store has evolved from a simple toy supplier into a must-see destination, boasting surprises around every corner. Visit the Barefoot Bookshop on the second floor, where kids can listen to storytellers read their favorite books or participate in kid-friendly yoga on soft mats; or kick off your shoes and let your inner Beethoven come alive on the Big Piano. With a personal shopping department and real-life toy soldiers to greet you, FAO Schwarz is the perfect addition to your New York City experience. 767 Fifth Ave. (58th St.), 212-644-9400; fao.com.

The Sony Style store is home to all things Sony, allowing you to experience their products first-hand, with the benefit of experienced and helpful sales associates. Sony Style features an array of Sony’s consumer electronics and entertainment, including Bravia HDTVs, VAIO personal computers, digital cameras, portable entertainment, and much more. Also, check out their magnificent Philip Johnson-designed corporate headquarters: It’s one of the city’s foremost postmodern buildings, famous for its “Chippendale” keyhole top. Sony Plaza, 550 Madison Ave. btw. 55th & 56th Sts., 212-833-8800; sonystyle.com.

Located just blocks from the Empire State Building, Penn Station, and Macy’s, B&H Photo Video is the world’s largest camera and video super store, a favorite among both professionals and amateurs alike. There are over 130,000 items in the store, containing every brand and product imaginable, including a full line of still, digital, video, home and portable entertainment, pro audio equipment, computers and accessories, as well as interactive multimedia displays and in-store demo rooms. 420 Ninth Ave. at 34th St., 212-444-6615; bhphotovideo.com.

For winter shopping that’s a little off-the-beaten-path, the Hell’s Kitchen Flea Market operates year round every Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 5pm, with over 170 vendors serving countless bargain-hunters: interior designers, antique hunters, buyers of fine crafts and fine art, collectors, stylists, and baked goods. (For more information on vendors and how you can participate, visit hellskitchenfleamarket.com.) W. 39th St. btw. Ninth & Tenth Aves., 212-243-5343.
 
Martinique Jewelers has been home to fine jewelry and high-end watches at very reasonable prices since 1963, with the city’s largest selection of NYC gold charms and fine Swiss watches from all the leading brands. One of the best places in Manhattan to pore over 14kt & 18kt gold and diamond jewelry and a full selection of diamond engagement rings and wedding bands. 750 Seventh Ave. (49th-50th Sts.), 212-262-7600; martiniquejewelers.com.

And last but not least: Couldn’t you use a little relaxation after a long day shopping? How about a stylish new hairstyle when you arrive home? Then treat yourself to some time at Salon Ziba. The chic, bi-level salon is home to an international team of stylists specializing in all hair types and offering style and beauty services at affordable prices. They’ve attract a loyal and diverse clientele, including celebrities like model Adriana Lima, spiritual guru Deepak Chopra, and editor Pamela Fiori. Their master technicians provide up-to-date color and cuts while estheticians deliver healing facials, depilatory, nail services, and relaxing massages. 200 W. 57th St., 212-767-0577; salonziba.com.