Key Takeaways
- For First-Timers: Midtown Manhattan is the most convenient base, offering easy access to iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building, Times Square, and Central Park.
- For Nightlife: The East Village, Lower East Side, and Williamsburg in Brooklyn are the epicenters of vibrant nightlife, with endless bars, live music venues, and clubs.
- For Families: The Upper West Side and Brooklyn’s Park Slope offer a quieter, more residential feel with proximity to parks, museums, and family-friendly restaurants.
- For Luxury: Indulge in world-class service and opulent surroundings at iconic 5-star hotels concentrated in Midtown, the Upper East Side, and SoHo.
- For Budget Travelers: Look for affordable hotels and hostels in areas like Long Island City (Queens), the Lower East Side, or parts of Brooklyn for great value without sacrificing convenience.
- Booking Strategy: Your choice of neighborhood will define your New York experience. Book accommodations 3-6 months in advance for the best rates and availability, especially during peak seasons.
Introduction
IntroductionWelcome to my city! New York is a place that lives in the imagination long before you ever set foot on its crowded sidewalks. It’s a sprawling, chaotic, and endlessly fascinating metropolis, and figuring out where to plant your suitcase can feel as daunting as navigating the subway during rush hour. But as a local who has explored every corner of this concrete jungle, I’m here to tell you that choosing the right home base is the single most important decision you’ll make. It’s the key to unlocking the New York you’ve been dreaming of.
This isn’t just a list of hotels. This is your insider’s guide to finding the perfect neighborhood that matches your travel style, budget, and energy. Whether you’re a wide-eyed first-timer eager to see the icons, a couple seeking romantic cobblestone streets, a family looking for green space, or a night owl ready to dive into the city’s legendary nightlife, there’s a corner of New York waiting for you. Let’s find it together.
Understanding New York’s Layout
First, a quick geography lesson. New York City is composed of five distinct boroughs, each with its own unique character. Manhattan is the long, narrow island most people picture when they think of NYC—it’s where you’ll find Times Square, Central Park, and the forest of skyscrapers. Brooklyn, across the East River, is famous for its creative energy, historic brownstones, and trend-setting culture. Queens is the city’s most diverse borough, a global food paradise with fantastic skyline views from its western edge.
The Bronx, to the north, is the birthplace of hip-hop and home to Yankee Stadium. Staten Island, accessible by a famous free ferry, offers a more suburban feel with surprising green spaces and historic sites. For most visitors, especially first-timers, the choice boils down to staying in Manhattan or a well-connected part of Brooklyn or Queens. Understanding this basic layout is the first step to making an informed decision about where to stay in New York.
Best Areas for First-Time Visitors
If this is your first bite of the Big Apple, you’ll want to be in the heart of the action. That means Midtown Manhattan. It’s not where most locals live, but its central location is unbeatable for a tourist. You’re within walking distance of an incredible number of iconic sights: the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). It’s the New York you’ve seen in movies, and staying here means you can maximize your sightseeing time.
Midtown is the city’s commercial and transportation hub. Grand Central Terminal and Penn Station are here, and nearly every subway line converges beneath its streets, making it incredibly easy to explore other boroughs. The grid system of numbered streets and avenues is also straightforward for newcomers to navigate. While it can be crowded and expensive, the sheer convenience often outweighs the drawbacks for a first visit. You’ll feel the city’s pulse 24/7.
When you start looking for a place to stay, you’ll find that Midtown offers the widest range of accommodations in the city. From towering luxury properties to reliable chain hotels, there is something for every taste. To get a sense of the options and prices, it’s a good idea to browse a comprehensive platform that aggregates different choices. You can find a great selection of New York hotels to fit your budget and preferences, all in one place.
Midtown: The Heart of the Action
Digging deeper into Midtown, the area is best understood in two parts: Midtown East and Midtown West. Midtown East, stretching from Fifth Avenue to the East River, feels a bit more corporate and upscale. It’s home to Grand Central, the Chrysler Building, and the United Nations. The shopping on Fifth Avenue is world-class, and the atmosphere is slightly more subdued in the evenings compared to its western counterpart.
Midtown West is where you’ll find the Theater District (Broadway) and the sensory overload of Times Square. This area is pure energy, buzzing from morning until the wee hours. It’s also where you’ll find Restaurant Row (West 46th Street) for pre-theater dinners and countless souvenir shops. Staying here means the bright lights and Broadway shows are right at your doorstep.
Choosing between East and West depends on your priorities. If you prefer a slightly calmer (by New York standards) environment with easy access to museums and high-end shopping, look to Midtown East. If you want to be immersed in the theatrical, dazzling spectacle of it all, Midtown West is your stage.
Times Square: Dazzling Lights and Broadway
Staying in or near Times Square is a rite of passage for many first-time visitors. There is nothing quite like stepping out of your hotel and being immediately engulfed by the glowing billboards, costumed characters, and throngs of people from every corner of the globe. It’s an experience that is quintessentially New York, and for those who want to be at the center of the universe, there’s no better place.
The primary advantage is proximity to Broadway. If your trip is built around seeing multiple shows, staying here is incredibly convenient. You can walk to almost any theater in minutes, grab a late-night bite after the curtain falls, and be back in your room without worrying about a long subway ride. It’s the ultimate convenience for theater lovers.
However, it’s important to be realistic. The crowds are relentless, and it can be overwhelming. Dining options in the immediate vicinity tend to be dominated by tourist-trap chain restaurants, and the constant noise and light aren’t for everyone. Many locals avoid it at all costs, but for a short, high-energy trip focused on sightseeing and shows, it can be the perfect, electrifying base.
Best Areas for Nightlife
If your New York fantasy involves dimly lit cocktail bars, rooftop parties with skyline views, and legendary music venues, you’ll want to look beyond Midtown. The East Village and the Lower East Side (LES) in Manhattan are historic hubs of counter-culture that still boast an incredible density of bars, clubs, and restaurants. The vibe here is grittier, edgier, and more authentic.
The East Village is a maze of streets filled with dive bars, old-school punk venues, hidden speakeasies, and every type of cuisine imaginable. It’s a neighborhood that invites you to wander and discover. The Lower East Side, once the heart of the immigrant experience, has transformed into a trendy hotspot where historic tenement buildings now house chic cocktail lounges, art galleries, and bustling music halls like the Bowery Ballroom.
Both neighborhoods offer a more local, less touristy experience of New York after dark. You’ll be drinking and dancing alongside New Yorkers. The hotel options here lean more towards boutique and budget-friendly stays rather than large chains, perfectly matching the neighborhood’s independent spirit.
Williamsburg, Brooklyn: The Epicenter of Cool
Cross the East River into Brooklyn, and you’ll find Williamsburg, a neighborhood that has become synonymous with global trendsetting. What was once an industrial, working-class area is now a vibrant hub for artists, musicians, and creatives, and its nightlife scene is second to none. From sprawling breweries and rooftop bars with stunning Manhattan views to intimate music venues and all-night dance clubs, Williamsburg has it all.
The neighborhood’s main artery, Bedford Avenue, and its surrounding streets are packed with unique spots. You can start your evening at a waterfront park watching the sunset over the skyline, move to a chic hotel rooftop for cocktails, catch an indie band at a place like Music Hall of Williamsburg, and end the night at a warehouse dance party. The vibe is effortlessly cool and relentlessly energetic.
Staying in Williamsburg gives you a completely different perspective on New York. You get the creative energy of Brooklyn while still being just one subway stop away from Manhattan. It’s the perfect choice for travelers who want to experience the cutting edge of New York culture and nightlife.
Best Areas for Families
Traveling with kids in a city as intense as New York requires a different strategy. You’ll want a neighborhood that offers a bit of a refuge from the chaos, with easy access to parks and family-friendly activities. The Upper West Side (UWS) is consistently ranked as the top choice for families. Nestled between Central Park and Riverside Park, it offers an abundance of green space for kids to run around.
The UWS has a relaxed, residential, and intellectual atmosphere. The beautiful brownstone-lined streets are quieter and feel safer than the bustling avenues of Midtown. It’s home to two of the city’s best attractions for children: the American Museum of Natural History and the Children’s Museum of Manhattan. Plus, the dining scene is full of casual, welcoming restaurants that won’t break the bank.
While it’s further from the downtown sights, the UWS has excellent subway connections (the 1, 2, 3, B, and C lines) that can get you to Times Square in about 15 minutes. It offers the perfect balance: a peaceful, neighborhood feel for your home base with the entire city still easily within reach.
Family-Friendly Stays in Brooklyn
For a slightly more bohemian but equally family-friendly vibe, consider the Brooklyn neighborhoods of Park Slope and Brooklyn Heights. Park Slope is famous for its gorgeous, tree-lined streets, historic brownstones, and its proximity to the magnificent Prospect Park, Brooklyn’s 585-acre answer to Central Park. The park houses a zoo, a carousel, and plenty of playgrounds.
Brooklyn Heights offers breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge from its famous Promenade. It’s a quieter, more affluent neighborhood with a charming, historic feel. Both areas are filled with strollers, kid-friendly cafes, and independent shops, offering a real taste of what it’s like to raise a family in New York.
Staying in these parts of Brooklyn provides a welcome respite from the tourist crowds of Manhattan. You’ll feel more like a local, and your family will have more space to breathe. With convenient subway access, you can still easily get to all the major attractions while enjoying a more relaxed and authentic neighborhood experience.
Luxury Stays in New York
For those looking to indulge, New York City is home to some of the most legendary and luxurious hotels in the world. These are more than just places to sleep; they are institutions of impeccable service, timeless elegance, and ultimate comfort. The highest concentration of these 5-star properties can be found in Midtown and along the edges of Central Park.
Think of icons like The Plaza, a Fairmont-managed hotel at the corner of Fifth Avenue and Central Park South, whose name is synonymous with New York luxury. Others, like The St. Regis, the Peninsula, and the Mandarin Oriental, offer unparalleled service, award-winning spas, and fine-dining restaurants, all under one roof. These hotels often feature opulent decor, breathtaking views, and a level of personal attention that makes every guest feel like royalty.
Beyond the classic grand dames, a new wave of modern luxury hotels has emerged in neighborhoods like SoHo and TriBeCa. These properties, such as The Greenwich Hotel or the Crosby Street Hotel, blend 5-star amenities with chic, contemporary design, offering a different but equally exclusive experience. If your budget allows, a stay in one of these establishments can be the highlight of your trip.
Budget-Friendly Hotels
New York City has a reputation for being expensive, but finding an affordable place to stay is entirely possible with a bit of strategic planning. The key is to look just outside the prime tourist core of Midtown Manhattan. Neighborhoods like the Lower East Side in Manhattan, Long Island City in Queens, and Downtown Brooklyn offer a fantastic array of budget-friendly options.
Hostels have also come a long way. Places like the Freehand New York and HI New York City Hostel offer clean, stylish, and sociable accommodations with both shared dorms and private rooms. They are a fantastic way to meet other travelers and save a significant amount of money. Another great option is pod hotels, like YOTEL or Pod 51, which offer small, cleverly designed private rooms at a fraction of the cost of a traditional hotel.
For a unique and affordable stay, consider a historic property like The Jane Hotel in the West Village, which offers cozy, ship-cabin-inspired rooms. By staying in a budget-friendly hotel, you free up more of your travel funds for what truly matters: experiencing the incredible food, culture, and attractions the city has to offer.
Boutique & Unique Hotels
If you prefer personality over predictability, New York’s boutique hotel scene is where you’ll find your perfect match. These smaller, stylish hotels offer a more intimate and curated experience, often reflecting the character of their surrounding neighborhood. SoHo, Greenwich Village, and Chelsea are hotspots for some of the city’s most charming and unique stays.
SoHo (South of Houston Street) is famous for its cast-iron architecture, cobblestone streets, high-end boutiques, and art galleries. Staying here puts you in a fashion-forward, creative hub. Hotels like The Ludlow, with its industrial-chic design and stunning city views, or the Crosby Street Hotel, with its whimsical, art-filled interiors, provide a luxurious and memorable base for exploring downtown.
Greenwich Village, with its winding streets and bohemian history, offers a quieter, more romantic atmosphere. The Marlton Hotel, a restored historic building with Parisian-inspired decor, captures the neighborhood’s intellectual and artistic spirit perfectly. These hotels are destinations in themselves, offering a strong sense of place that you won’t find in a larger chain.
Hotels with Best Views
One of the most magical parts of a New York trip is waking up or going to sleep with the city’s iconic skyline spread out before you. Several neighborhoods and specific hotels are renowned for their jaw-dropping vistas. For the ultimate postcard view of the Manhattan skyline, you need to cross the river into Brooklyn or Queens.
Neighborhoods like DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) and Williamsburg in Brooklyn offer front-row seats. Hotels here are specifically designed to maximize their waterfront location. A stay at the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge, for example, provides panoramic views of the Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty, and the Lower Manhattan skyline from its rooms and rooftop pool. Similarly, hotels in Long Island City, Queens, offer incredible, unobstructed views of the Midtown skyline.
Within Manhattan, you can find spectacular views from hotels in the Financial District, which look out over the harbor and the Statue of Liberty, or from skyscraper hotels in Midtown that offer a bird’s-eye perspective of the urban canyon below. When booking, always check for rooms on higher floors and specify a “view” room if it’s a priority—it’s often worth the extra cost.
Hotels Near Central Park
Staying near Central Park is a classic New York dream. This 843-acre oasis of green in the middle of the city offers a welcome escape and endless opportunities for recreation. The neighborhoods bordering the park—the Upper West Side, the Upper East Side, and Midtown along Central Park South—provide a diverse range of hotel options.
Central Park South is famous for its row of ultra-luxury hotels, including The Plaza, The Ritz-Carlton, and the Park Hyatt. These offer palatial rooms, white-glove service, and, for a premium, direct views into the park. It’s an iconic address for a truly special occasion.
The Upper West Side offers a more relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with hotels that are slightly more affordable. It’s a great choice for those who want to be close to the park’s playgrounds, the Museum of Natural History, and enjoy a more residential neighborhood feel. The Upper East Side, known for its affluence and Museum Mile (home to The Met and the Guggenheim), has a quieter, more refined selection of luxury and boutique hotels.
Hotels Near Times Square
We’ve touched on the pros and cons, but let’s focus on the specific hotel experience. The hotels in and around Times Square are built for spectacle. The New York Marriott Marquis, for instance, is famous for its soaring 48-story atrium and glass elevators that offer a thrilling ride with views of the action below. Many hotels in the area feature rooftop bars that place you right amongst the glowing signs.
The primary benefit is undeniable convenience for Broadway shows and major attractions. However, be prepared for crowds the moment you step outside. Rooms can sometimes be smaller and more expensive than comparable hotels in other neighborhoods due to the prime location. It’s a trade-off between location and tranquility.
If you decide to stay here, a good tip is to look for hotels a block or two away from the main square. You’ll still be incredibly close to everything but might find a slight reprieve from the 24/7 noise and light. Hotels on 8th Avenue or in the blocks between 6th and 7th Avenues can offer a good compromise.
Hidden Gems & Lesser-Known Neighborhoods
To truly experience New York like a local, consider venturing into neighborhoods that aren’t on every tourist’s radar. Harlem, in Upper Manhattan, is a neighborhood rich in African American history and culture. Stroll down its beautiful brownstone-lined streets, enjoy incredible soul food, and catch a jazz show at a legendary club. Staying in Harlem offers a deep cultural immersion and is often more affordable than downtown.
Long Island City (LIC) in Queens is another fantastic option that many visitors overlook. Just one subway stop from Midtown, LIC offers some of the best skyline views in the entire city. It has a burgeoning arts scene, a lovely waterfront park, and a growing number of modern, affordable hotels. It provides the convenience of a Manhattan location without the Manhattan price tag.
For a quieter, more village-like atmosphere, explore neighborhoods like Cobble Hill or Carroll Gardens in Brooklyn. These areas are filled with charming boutiques, cozy cafes, and beautiful parks, offering a peaceful retreat after a long day of sightseeing. Staying in one of these hidden gems can lead to a more authentic and memorable New York story.
Getting to Your Hotel
New York is served by three major airports: John F. Kennedy (JFK), LaGuardia (LGA), and Newark Liberty (EWR) in New Jersey. Before you even start looking for cheap flights to New York, it’s wise to know how you’ll get from the airport to your hotel. From JFK, the easiest and most cost-effective option is the AirTrain, which connects to the subway system. A taxi or ride-share will be more direct but significantly more expensive and subject to traffic.
From LaGuardia, which is closer to Manhattan, the most common method is a taxi, ride-share, or the public bus system, which connects to the subway. There is no direct rail link from LGA. From Newark, the AirTrain connects to NJ Transit trains, which take you to Penn Station in Manhattan—a fast and reliable option.
No matter which airport you fly into, it’s crucial to factor in the time and cost of transit to your hotel. If you’re arriving late at night with a lot of luggage, a pre-booked car service or taxi might be worth the splurge for peace of mind. During the day, public transit is often the fastest and most authentic way to start your New York adventure.
Moving Around the City
Once you’re here, the best way to navigate New York is its 24/7 subway system. It’s fast, extensive, and relatively cheap. A single ride can take you from the top of Manhattan to the beaches of Coney Island. Download a city transit app or use Google Maps to navigate the lines—it may seem intimidating at first, but you’ll get the hang of it quickly. It’s how real New Yorkers live.
Walking is the other essential mode of transport. New York is a fantastic city to explore on foot, and you’ll discover countless hidden gems by simply wandering. For shorter distances, walking is often faster than waiting for a train or sitting in traffic. Just be sure to pack comfortable shoes!
While you might be tempted to rent a car, it’s generally not recommended for getting around Manhattan. Traffic is heavy, parking is astronomically expensive and difficult to find, and the public transit system is far more efficient. If you plan on taking day trips outside the five boroughs, you might consider looking into local car rentals, but for exploring the city itself, your own two feet and a MetroCard are all you need.
Food & Dining Near Hotels
One of the greatest joys of New York is its unparalleled food scene. No matter where you choose to stay, you will be surrounded by incredible dining options. From Michelin-starred restaurants to humble street carts, the city is a feast for the senses. Don’t be afraid to venture beyond the hotel restaurant.
If you’re staying in Midtown, you’ll have access to everything from high-end steakhouses to the quick and delicious lunch spots that feed the city’s office workers. In neighborhoods like the East Village or Greenwich Village, you’ll find a staggering variety of cuisines in small, independent restaurants. In Brooklyn, you can explore the artisanal food markets of Williamsburg or the classic pizzerias of Bushwick.
A quintessential New York experience is grabbing a bagel for breakfast from a local deli, a slice of pizza for lunch, and food from a street vendor for a late-night snack. Ask your hotel concierge for local recommendations, or better yet, just follow your nose. The best meal of your trip might be from a place you stumble upon by accident.
Best Tours Near Your Stay
While independent exploration is fantastic, a good tour can provide context and depth to your visit. New York offers tours for every possible interest. Walking tours are a great way to understand the history and architecture of specific neighborhoods like Greenwich Village, SoHo, or the Financial District.
Food tours are another popular option, leading you to the best culinary delights in neighborhoods known for their food culture, like the East Village or Arthur Avenue in the Bronx (the “real” Little Italy). For a different perspective, consider a boat tour around Manhattan, which offers stunning views of the skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the city’s famous bridges.
Of course, no trip is complete without experiencing Broadway. It’s wise to book tickets for popular shows well in advance. Using a reliable platform to secure your tickets for attractions and shows can save you time and ensure you don’t miss out. Whether it’s a historical tour, a culinary adventure, or a dazzling show, guided experiences can greatly enrich your stay.
Safety & Practical Tips
New York City is one of the safest large cities in the world, but like any major metropolitan area, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings. Stick to well-lit, populated areas at night, keep your valuables secure, and be wary of common scams, especially in crowded tourist areas like Times Square.
When choosing a neighborhood, rest assured that all the main areas recommended for tourists are generally very safe. The biggest challenge for visitors is often financial. To save money, take advantage of the many free attractions: walk the Brooklyn Bridge, ride the Staten Island Ferry, or explore Central Park. Eat at local delis and food carts for cheap and delicious meals.
For international travelers, managing money is key. While credit cards are widely accepted, it’s always good to have some cash for smaller purchases. Instead of using expensive airport kiosks, consider a modern service for better rates. Using a smart currency exchange service can help you avoid high fees and get the best value for your money, leaving more in your pocket for enjoying the city.
Travel Insurance & Booking Essentials
This is the boring but crucial part. For international visitors, in particular, travel insurance is non-negotiable. The cost of medical care in the United States is extremely high, and an unexpected illness or accident could be financially devastating. A good policy will cover medical emergencies, as well as trip cancellations and lost luggage. Securing comprehensive travel insurance before you leave home provides essential peace of mind.
When it comes to booking, timing is everything. For the best prices and selection of hotels, aim to book 3-6 months in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season (summer, holidays) or for a major event like the New York City Marathon. The same goes for popular tours and Broadway shows; booking your favorite New York experiences ahead of time ensures you won’t be disappointed by sold-out signs.
Last-minute deals can sometimes be found, but they are a gamble. For a stress-free trip, planning ahead is the best strategy. This allows you to secure your ideal hotel in your preferred neighborhood, setting the stage for a perfect New York adventure.
Sample Itinerary: Staying in New York for 3 to 5 Days
How you spend your days will depend heavily on where you stay, but here’s a flexible plan for a first-timer based in Midtown. Day 1: Arrive and explore your immediate surroundings. Walk to Times Square, see the lights, and catch a Broadway show. Day 2: Head downtown. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge, explore the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, and wander through the Financial District. Day 3: Museum and Park Day. Spend the morning at the Metropolitan Museum of Art or the Museum of Natural History, followed by a long afternoon exploring Central Park.
If you have 5 days, use the extra time to dive into different neighborhoods. Day 4: Explore Downtown’s creative side. Wander the cobblestone streets of SoHo, the bohemian lanes of Greenwich Village, and the trendy bars of the East Village. Day 5: Borough Exploration. Take the subway to Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Enjoy the waterfront views, browse the unique shops, and soak in the creative atmosphere before heading to the airport.
This itinerary is just a starting point. The beauty of New York is its density; you can pack so much into a single day. Use your hotel as a base to launch your daily adventures, and don’t be afraid to get lost. Sometimes the best discoveries are the ones you never planned.
Conclusion
Choosing where to stay in New York is about more than just finding a bed; it’s about curating your entire experience. Your neighborhood becomes the lens through which you see the city. A stay in Midtown offers convenience and proximity to icons, perfect for a whirlwind first visit. A room in the East Village or Williamsburg plugs you directly into the city’s vibrant, creative pulse. A brownstone-lined street on the Upper West Side provides a peaceful, family-friendly haven amidst the urban energy.
There is no single “best” place to stay in New York, only the best place for you. Think about what you want to see, do, and feel on your trip. Do you crave the 24/7 energy, or do you need a quiet place to recharge? Do you want to be surrounded by history, art, or nightlife? Answering these questions will lead you to the perfect neighborhood, and the perfect neighborhood will transform your trip from a simple vacation into an unforgettable story.
This city has a unique magic, and finding your own little corner of it is the first step to falling under its spell. When you’re ready to turn these dreams into reality, let us help you find the perfect base for your adventure with our smart booking tools.
FAQs
1. What is the best area to stay in New York for the first time?
For first-time visitors, Midtown Manhattan is the most recommended area. Its central location provides easy walking or subway access to major attractions like Times Square, the Empire State Building, Central Park, and Broadway theaters, making it extremely convenient for sightseeing.
2. Is it safe to stay in Brooklyn or Queens?
Absolutely. Neighborhoods like Williamsburg, DUMBO, Park Slope in Brooklyn, and Long Island City in Queens are very safe and popular with both locals and tourists. They often provide better value, a more local feel, and in some cases, even better views of the Manhattan skyline.
3. How many days do I need for my first trip to New York?
A minimum of 4-5 days is recommended for a first trip. This gives you enough time to see the major highlights in Manhattan without feeling too rushed, and potentially allows for a day to explore a neighborhood in another borough like Brooklyn.
4. What is the most central area to stay in NYC?
Midtown Manhattan is the most central and well-connected area in New York City. With major transportation hubs like Grand Central Terminal, Penn Station, and Times Square, nearly every subway line runs through it, making it the easiest base from which to explore the entire city.
5. Should I stay in an Airbnb or a hotel in New York?
This depends on your travel style. Hotels offer convenience, security, and amenities. However, be aware that short-term rentals (less than 30 days) in entire apartments are heavily restricted in NYC, so legal Airbnb options are mostly private rooms in a shared apartment. For most tourists, a hotel is the more straightforward and reliable choice.
6. How do I get from the airport to my hotel in Manhattan?
From JFK, the AirTrain to the subway is the most cost-effective. From Newark (EWR), the AirTrain to NJ Transit trains to Penn Station is efficient. From LaGuardia (LGA), a taxi, ride-share, or bus to the subway are your main options. Taxis and ride-shares are available from all airports but are more expensive and subject to traffic.
7. Is New York an expensive city to visit?
New York can be expensive, but there are many ways to visit on a budget. Accommodation will be your biggest expense, so book in advance and consider staying just outside central Manhattan. Save money on food by eating at delis and street carts, and take advantage of free attractions like walking the Brooklyn Bridge, riding the Staten Island Ferry, and exploring the city’s many parks.
