Travel and Lifestyle blog
New York City, famously known as the city that never sleeps, is one of the best destinations to visit in the United States. It’s filled with great history, fantastic food, and a breathtaking skyline view unlike any other in the world.
Planning a trip to NYC can be quite overwhelming, especially if you’ve never visited before. It can be hard trying to decide what’s worth seeing and what’s not! That’s why I’ve put together this 4 days in New York City itinerary to help you out. Feel free to move different parts of the itinerary around to cover all of the places that you most want to visit!
If you’re planning to visit New York City for the first time, make sure to check out my NYC travel guide which was specifically written for first timers and my best travel tips for NYC!
Disclosure: *This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.*
Since New York City is one of the biggest hubs in the entire world, you have tons of options to choose from when it comes to how to get to New York City. You can arrive by plane, train, bus, or even with your own car if you’re coming from one of the nearby cities.
The easiest way to get to New York City is to take plane. You can find 3 major airports nearby: the John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and the La Guardia Airport (LGA) in Queens, and the Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in New Jersey. Each airport is very well connected to Manhattan by subways, trains and buses and you can also take a taxi as well.
If you’re planning to arrive from another US city or Canada, you can take a train as well. NYC has two main rail stations in Midtown Manhattan: the Grand Central Terminal and Penn Station. Another option is to arrive by bus. There are many great affordable bus lines that offer routes to NYC, such as Megabus, Greyhound, or BoltBus.
If you’re looking for the absolute best time to visit New York City, try to aim for the shoulder seasons, spring and fall. You can see the city buzzing with excitement for the warmer months as all of the flowers start to bloom in the spring. Meanwhile, if you visit in the fall, you can witness some of the most beautiful and unforgettable fall foliage in the world.
Winter is definitely one of the most magical season in NYC. Since New York is one of the best Christmas destinations in the USA, visiting the Big Apple during the holidays is a great idea. However, you need to keep in mind that it’s also the most expensive time to visit and usually the city gets very crowded, not to mention the freezing cold.
Although summer in New York City sounds tempting, it’s actually not the best time to visit the city. It can get scorching in NYC in the summer and sometimes even heat waves can occur with temperatures around 95-100°F (35-38°C). It’s also important to know that New Yorkers love air-conditioning and the difference in temperatures between indoors and outdoors is shocking, especially if you are a foreigner and you’re not used to it.
Although New York City is massive, it’s very easy to get around thanks to the tons of different bus and subway lines. The New York subway is actually the largest subway system in the world, with over 470 stations.
The most convenient and affordable option is to use public transportation. You can buy a SingleRide ticket for 3 USD at a vending machine. Though, if you’ll be using the subway often, which you most likely will, it’s better to buy a MetroCard for 1 USD and refill it as needed. The most popular option is the 32 USD unlimited weekly subway pass. The MetroCard can also be used with trams and buses.
If you can, avoid taking taxis at all costs. Most taxis charge you by the distance driven in addition to the amount of time that you’re in the vehicle, and with NYC traffic, that can seriously add up. The average pricing model is 2.50 USD as an initial fee, plus 50 cents per 1/5 mile traveled. There’s also a 50 cents fee for each minute that you’re stuck in traffic.
NYC consist of 5 different boroughs (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx and Staten Island) and hundreds of different neighborhoods. Generally speaking, Manhattan is one of the best boroughs to stay in NYC, especially if you’re a first timer.
If you’re interested in knowing more about the neighborhoods in NYC, be sure to check out my guide about the best areas to stay in New York City that includes 10 amazing neighborhoods with lots of useful tips and information about each areas.
Below you can find few of the best hotels to stay for your 4 days in New York City, depending on your budget. Do you prefer booking Airbnbs rather than hotels on your travels? Then check out my article about the best airbnbs in New York City!
LUXURY – 1 Hotel Central Park
Offering a restaurant and a fitness centre, 1 Hotel Central Park is located right next to Central Park. Each room will provide you with air conditioning, a seating area and a private bathroom. The on-site restaurant, Jams, features an open kitchen and it is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
MID-RANGE – Hyatt Place New York/Midtown-South
Just 5 minutes’ walk from the Empire State Building, this Manhattan hotel offers free Wi-Fi and modern rooms equipped with a flat-screen TV. The 34th Street—Herald Square underground station is 4 minutes’ walk away.
BUDGET – MOXY NYC Times Square
Just 5 minutes’ walk from the Empire State Building, this Manhattan hotel offers free Wi-Fi and modern rooms equipped with a flat-screen TV. The 34th Street—Herald Square underground station is 4 minutes’ walk away.
The section below includes an overview of your New York City in 4 days itinerary with all the best highlights that I recommend visiting during each day of your trip. While I’ve included some of the more touristy attractions that you have to see at least once in New York City, I’ve also included a few of the more off-the-beaten-track locations as well.
While there’s a lot to do on this New York in 4 days itinerary, it’s just the right amount of sightseeing. During the first day, you’ll take the time to get acquainted with the city, while on the second day, you’ll take a long-awaited trip to see the Statue of Liberty.
The third day consists of branching out and visiting Brooklyn and some outdoor attractions. Then, you’ll wrap up your NYC trip by visiting some of the top sights in the city that your trip wouldn’t be complete without!
DAY 1 – Free NYC walking tour, Metropolitan Museum of Art (or another museum of your choice), picnic in Central Park, and Times Square
DAY 2 – Local NYC breakfast (bagels), Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Broadway play
DAY 3 – Brooklyn Bridge, DUMBO, visiting a market, 9/11 Memorial, High Line, One World Observatory, The Strand Bookstore, Washington Square Park
DAY 4 – St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Rockefeller Center, Top of the Rock or Empire State Building, Fifth Avenue, Grand Central Terminal, New York Public Library
Below you can find a customized map which includes all the locations you’re going to visit on your NYC itinerary. I marked your 4 days in New York with different colors – I used blue for the first, yellow for the second, green for the third and red for the fourth day, so you can easily see which places you’re going to visit each day.
If you open up this post on your phone and you click on the bracket in the upper right corner of the map, it will open up in your Google Maps app so you can always have it with you. Super convenient, right?
The first day of your 4 days in New York City itinerary will be spent acquainting yourself to the city itself. Take the time to learn more about New York City’s history today, and ask any questions you have while you’re at museums or on tour. Enjoying a destination is even more memorable when you know more about the place that you’re visiting, so really soak it all in.
Day one also doesn’t include a whole lot of things to do in case you’re exhausted from your travels if you got to the city in the morning. It’s a bit more relaxing than the other days on this itinerary. If you have more time and arrived the night before, you can of course try to pack in a few more sights during your first day!
Start your NYC experience off strong by going on a walking tour. Oh, and did I mention there are free tours of the city run by locals who volunteer? Seriously, there is no better way to get acquainted with the city! Plus, you’ll be taking the tour with other tourists, so you may even make some travel friends who you could meet up with later on during this NYC itinerary.
The two most prominent tour companies that give free tours in New York City are Big Apple Greeters and Free Tours By Foot. In particular, the latter offers a wide variety of daily scheduled tours, so no matter the day you arrive, you can go on one of their free tours.
Some of the tour options for Free Tours By Foot include Chelsea and the High Line, Harlem, Brooklyn Bridge/Brooklyn Heights/DUMBO, and SoHo/Little Italy/Chinatown. If you want to get right to the heart of the city, be sure to hop on their 3 Hour Downtown Manhattan tour, which covers SoHo, Little Italy, the Financial District, and Chinatown. This tour, in particular, is a 3-hour tour offered in both the morning and the afternoon.
Keep in mind that it does use the metro, which you will have to pay for. You also have to make a reservation for the tour, and it fills up quickly! The tours are only offered in English and Spanish.
This NYC in 4 days itinerary wouldn’t be complete if it didn’t mention at least one museum. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, also known worldwide as the MET, is one of the most famous museums in the city. It’s also one of the most prominent fine art museums in the entire world. Because of its size, you most likely won’t be able to see every inch of what’s inside, but going inside is an unforgettable experience.
If you aren’t interested in visiting the MET and would instead visit a different museum, there are tons to choose from. Some other famous museums in the city include the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA), the American Museum of Natural History, the New Museum, the Museum of the City of New York, and the Guggenheim.
For some of these museums, you can purchase tickets online for a discounted rate versus purchasing in person at the booth. Many museums in the city also offer “free hours” at least one day of the week, meaning that visitors can go inside for free during the set hours. Do your research before visiting to save money!
Central Park is the park in New York City. This vast urban park is located right in the middle of Manhattan’s Upper West and Upper East sides. It’s so large that it covers 843 acres, dating back to the mid 19th century. Central Park was the first public park in the United States, making it important to the country’s outdoor landscape history.
Before visiting the park, stop by a local sandwich shop or a grocery store and pick up some food to have a little picnic. Bring a blanket if you have one, or just sit out on the grass if you’re visiting during a warmer season.
Take the time to walk around the park before or after your meal, because it is beautiful. There are walking paths throughout, which make it easy to explore. While it can be quite busy at times, there are usually at least a few spots where you can catch a moment of solitude. Plus, the skyline view from the park is magnificent as well!
While Times Square may be known as a tourist trap by locals, it’s worth visiting at least once during your 4 days in New York City. Visit at night when it starts to get dark to see it lit up in all of its glory!
This huge plaza is covered in billboards and moving pictures almost everywhere you look. Plus, there are tons of places to go shopping in this area too, so if you have to pick up any last-minute essentials for the rest of your trip, now’s the time.
While at Times Square, be sure to be well aware of your surroundings. It’s not that it’s an unsafe place, but since it’s known for being host to many tourists, some scams often happen in this area.
You’ll want to be on the lookout for people dressed up in character costumes who will charge you upwards of 20 USD for a single picture and also people selling you blank CDs without you knowing. There are some other tourist scams here, but these are the two most popular. Be aware of your surroundings and watch your belongings closely!
New York City is well-known for its bagels, so today, you’re going to start the day with a unique and delicious bagel breakfast. You can find a bagel shop claiming to be the “best” on almost every street corner, so be careful!
Some of the top-rated bagel places include Absolute Bagels, Tal Bagels, Bo’s Bagels, Bagelworks, and Tompkins Square Bagels. Tompkins, in particular, is known for its crazy flavors, like rainbow colored bagels! If you want an Instagram-worthy breakfast, stop by Tompkins.
Now that you’ve got your bagel in hand, it’s time for the next stop on this NYC itinerary!
Today is finally the day that you get to visit the famous Statue of Liberty. Many people think that visiting the Statue of Liberty can be a really short trip, but in reality, I suggest putting aside almost a full day to be able to fully experience it.
Liberty Island – which is home to the Statue of Liberty, a beautiful park and an innovative museum – is only accessible by ferry. This means that you either need to book your own tickets or you can join a guided tour. The ferries depart from Battery Park and you need to look for Statue Cruises, as this is the only vendor that is authorized to provide tickets.
As the Statue of Liberty is one of the top tourist attractions in the world, you need to book your tickets well in advance. A round trip ferry ticket costs 19.25 USD and it also stops at Ellis Island on the way back. Try to catch a ferry as early in the morning as possible, preferably around 9am. As the day goes on, the ferries start to run behind, and the island also gets a lot busier.
Liberty Island, the Statue of the Liberty Museum and the Pedestal of the Statue of Liberty is completely free to visit. However, if you want to access the Crown of the Statue and see the view from the top, you need to purchase a separate ticket for that. You can check the different ticket options here.
Many people don’t realize that their ferry ticket also includes access to Ellis Island. So, after spending some time on Liberty Island, take the time to visit this island as well! It’s filled with just as much history as Liberty Island, if not more.
In the early 19th century, Ellis Island was the busiest immigrant inspection station in the United States, approximately 12 million immigrants were processed here between 1892 and 1924. You can even check the name of the immigrants on the Wall of Honor, located just outside the Great Hall at the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration.
It’s worth to spend a couple hours at the museum as well, which documents the history of American immigration through photographs, heirlooms and historic records. Don’t forget to take a stroll in the park outside after visiting the museum, as it offers some of the best views over the NYC skyline.
New York City in 4 days is not complete without at least seeing one Broadway play. Finish your day off strong by seeing one! If you plan on seeing a top-rated show like Hamilton, you’ll want book your tickets well before your trip even begins. However, for some of the less popular shows, you can usually purchase tickets the day of.
Prices for shows can also vary greatly. You can usually see The Phantom of the Opera for around 30 USD, while Hamilton and Wicked can be closer to 150 USD or higher. So, choose your Broadway show wisely! There are tons of other great play to choose from as well, you can check the shows and book your tickets here.
Today’s finally the day to explore more than just Manhattan! Your first stop will be Brooklyn, which is an absolute must if you’re spending 4 days in NYC. The Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most Instagrammable and famous spots in all of NYC. It was constructed back in 1883 and crosses the East River. While on the bridge, you can look one way and get a great view of NYC and then look the other way to get a fantastic Brooklyn view.
The most popular photo spot is from Washington Street, so start the day by heading straight there and avoid the crowds that will come later in the day. The view from here is truly impeccable, so make sure you bring your camera.
After that, make sure you take the time to explore the rest of the DUMBO neighborhood. I know what you must be thinking – DUMBO? It’s an acronym for “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass.” There’s tons of great sightseeing to do in this area. Go without a set plan and see what you stumble across!
Brooklyn is an area well-known for its markets, so take the time to visit one if there’s one open during your trip. The most famous flea market is the Brooklyn Flea. It’s the largest flea market of its kind and is open on Saturday and Sunday. Take the time to walk around, meet locals, and maybe even purchase a souvenir or two!
Another fun market held in Brooklyn is called Smorgasburg. This is a food market, so make sure you’re hungry! It’s open on Saturdays and is the biggest food market that’s open-air in the United States. While many vendors might take card, make sure you have cash on you just in case. It’s always best to use cash anyway for street markets just to be safe!
Next, head to one of the most important places in NYC: the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. The memorial commemorates the travesty that occurred on September 11, 2001, and was built in 2011.
The memorial is entirely free to visit and is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, but you do have to pay to enter the museum. Museum tickets are also known to sell out quickly, so if you’d like to go to the museum, try to book your tickets well in advance. You can buy them up to six months ahead!
Visitors usually spend around two hours here. There’s a lot to take in, and the subject is quite heavy and heartbreaking. Be sure to also check out the 15-minute film at the beginning of your visit.
One World Observatory is one of the most incredible viewpoints in NYC and it’s definitely a sight you can’t miss on your 4 days in New York City itinerary. Located on the top of the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, One World Observatory offers 3 different levels filled with innovation and inspiration, and of course, 360-degree views.
It’s important to book your tickets in advance and since it grants you admission for a specific time, make sure to arrive 5-10 minutes before your time slot. After your arrival, take a high-speed Sky Pod Elevator ride that will take you up to the 102nd floor within 60 seconds. Allow yourself at least 1-2 hours in the One World Observatory to be able to soak in the beautiful views!
The High Line is a super unique park worth visiting in NYC. The park is shaped like one long walkway and is filled with tons of brightly colored plant life. It goes on for around 1.5 miles (2.5 km), so you could spend approximately 30 to 45 minutes walking the whole High Line. This 4 days in New York City itinerary wouldn’t be complete without mentioning this sight!
What makes The High Line so unique is not only its elevated viewpoints but also because it’s a repurposed train track that was rallied for by the local community. It was set to be demolished, but in the early 2000s, a competition was held by the Friends of the High Line to see how the area could best be repurposed for the public.
The views from The High Line are spectacular but note that it does close at 6 pm. Make sure you give yourself enough time to enjoy it fully!
The Strand Bookstore is one of NYC’s most underrated landmarks. It was founded in the early 20th century and is known for housing 18 miles (29 km) of books! The store itself is enormous, and you could easily get lost between the bookshelves.
If you don’t plan on purchasing a book, this is still a unique highlight to visit and explore. You may even find a fun souvenir or two to commemorate your trip to the city that never sleeps. It’s located right in East Village, so you could also explore more of the area right after!
Finish the day off by heading to Washington Square Park, named after none other than George Washington. This park covers just shy of 10 acres (4 hectares) and is located in Greenwich Village. It was opened in 1871 and is most well-known for being a popular spot among students who attend NYU.
This park is always bustling, but it’s fun to people watch and get some fresh air. Many gatherings and city events have been held in this park since the 19th century, so there may even be something going on during your visit! Be sure to check out the statue of George Washington.
For your last day in New York City, it’s time to check out a few of the other must-visit spots before you head home. First on the list is St. Patrick’s Cathedral, which opens right at 7 am. This is one of the most iconic landmarks in NYC and is a Gothic cathedral with an elaborate interior.
This 19th-century cathedral has beautiful mosaic windows, so be on the lookout for them. It’s also only a short walk away from your next stop on the 4 days in New York City itinerary, Rockefeller Center!
After embracing the beauty of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, it’s time to take a short 3-minute walk over to Rockefeller Center. It’s located in Rockefeller Plaza and is named after John D. Rockefeller, and covers 22 acres (9 hectares).
This area is filled with tons of must-visit places, including The Rink, the Top of the Rock (next on this list!), and many shops and restaurants. Take the time to look around a bit and explore. It’s your last day in New York City, after all!
It’s finally time to get one of New York City’s best views from the Top of the Rock. The Empire State Building is a good alternative for a great view, but many people argue that the Top of the Rock offers even better views because you can see the Empire State Building from here!
The building itself has 70 floors and three different observation decks. It opened back in the 1930s but wasn’t known as the Top of the Rock until 2005. From the top, you can see out to Central Park. Remember to download the Top of the Rock app during your visit here, which gives you an in-depth look into your surroundings.
You’ll want around 45 minutes to embrace this landmark and soak in the views thoroughly. Also remember to purchase tickets well in advance, because this is a famous landmark in the city. Trust me, your 4 days in New York itinerary wouldn’t be complete without a great view.
If you only have time for one viewpoint on this day, I would recommend choosing the Top of the Rock. Of course if you have more time, you can still visit the Empire State Building as well! Whichever you choose, you won’t leave disappointed, that’s for sure.
Even if you don’t plan on buying anything on Fifth Avenue, it’s worth visiting just to walk around and window shop. It’s famously known for being one of the world’s most expensive streets. It’s also located quite centrally in Manhattan, near Washington Square Park and Greenwich Village.
While the street is known for being expensive, there are also some more affordable shops here, including Gap, Abercrombie & Fitch, and Best Buy.
To end your NYC in 4 days trip, you absolutely must stop by Grand Central Terminal. Made famous to today’s generation by shows like Gossip Girl, Grand Central Terminal is genuinely a grandiose and elegant landmark. It’s located in Midtown Manhattan and is beautiful inside.
While it can be quite busy here, no matter what time you visit, be sure to take a photo. This place is incredibly Instagrammable! There are also many different restaurants and shops inside, so this is a great place to grab a bite to eat before your very last landmark.
Last but not least is the New York Public Library! It’s completely free to visit, and it’s really fun to go through and just explore all the different areas of its interior. The library opened back in the 19th century and is home to more than 50 million books, so it’s very elaborate.
The building itself is significantly historical, and there are tons of fun little rooms to explore and search around. Take the time to soak up this last landmark in NYC. It’s known as being one of the most beautiful libraries in the entire world!
Keep your eye out for the Book Train, a fun addition that helps move books from one destination to the other.
If you want to visit the city that never sleeps, 4 days is the perfect amount of time to dip your toes in. NYC is one of the top cities to visit in the entire world, and visiting will truly be an unforgettable experience, no matter the time of year you visit. I hope you enjoyed this 4 days in New York City itinerary, and I hope you have the chance to visit this magical city!
If you have any questions feel free to leave a comment below or send me an email, I always love helping you out! Do you know some other great places to visit in New York City that you think I should add to this NYC itinerary? Let me know in the comments!
New York City is one of the most magical cities on Earth, and for good reason. From its dazzling lights to its vibrant history and culture, you won’t be at a loss for fun activities.
Planning for a trip to NYC can be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time visiting the city that never sleeps. So, here’s a comprehensive list of travel tips for NYC to help you plan your trip, all of which are tried and true by someone who’s visited NYC many times!
If this will be your first trip to New York City, make sure to read my ultimate NYC travel guide as well! It was specifically written for first time visitors and contains every useful information you need to know about the city: how to get around, what to pack, where to stay, and more!
Disclosure: *This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.*
One of the best tips for visiting New York City for the first time is to do comprehensive research before your trip. Attractions in the city are always changing, as are entry times and ticket prices. You don’t want to show up and find that you can’t visit a place you planned on spending a solid few hours at!
Take at least an hour or two jotting down the places you want to visit and marking them on a map. This will come in handy for tip #16.
Be sure also to see how much some attractions cost and whether you have to buy tickets ahead of time. Some of the top attractions in NYC get sold out pretty quickly, so you’ll want to be well-prepared.
New Yorkers are known for their brisk walk because they always have places to go and people to see. You do not want to get in their way, mainly because sidewalk traffic is already crazy as it is in the city! This is one of the tips for tourists in NYC you won’t want to miss.
If you know you’re a slow walker or that you’ll often be stopping to check directions or look around at your surroundings in amazement, stay to the right. This way, you’re not directly in someone’s line of walking if they are walking quicker.
It can be incredibly tempting to try to eat at the chain restaurants when you visit a place because you know you’ll like the food, and they’re usually more affordable. However, you seriously won’t want to miss out on New York City’s local meals.
One of the absolute best tips for NYC tourists is to eat local. Whether you try a famous dirty dog or a homemade bagel, you’re going to be in foodie heaven. Other popular NYC dishes include clam chowder, cheesecake, pizza, Italian ice, corned beef, and pastrami. Try to be adventurous and eat at least one of these dishes while you’re here!
If you want to try to find cheaper local food, steer clear of tourist areas like Times Square. The further away from the tourist attractions that you can get, the more local the place generally. If you can, try asking a local for their recommendations on where to try the best local cuisine.
Yes, New York City is at its most magical during the winter months (it’s one of the best Christmas vacations in the USA, primarily because of the beautiful Christmas tree and the opportunity to see the Rockettes), but this is also the most expensive time to visit. If you have the money to splurge or you can plan your trip well in advance, then you might be okay, but otherwise, plan on visiting during a different season to save yourself some money.
The shoulder seasons, spring and fall, are extraordinary times to visit NYC. You can see the city buzzing with excitement for the warmer months as all of the flowers start to bloom in the spring. Meanwhile, if you visit in the fall, you can witness some of the most beautiful and unforgettable fall foliage in the world.
It can get scorching in NYC in the summer, which is why the shoulder seasons are great alternatives. Trust me; you don’t want to be on a subway in the sweltering heat! This is one of the most overlooked travel tips for NYC.
Even though NYC is the city that never sleeps, there is a way to avoid most tourists. Wake up early! Yes, you’ll be up with the locals, but you can get some of the best sunrise views during this time, and you’ll also be able to stop by some of the more popular spots before they get too busy.
Usually, the attractions are closed at this time, but you can at least get some great photos of them without the crowds that you’d have in your photo later in the day. The earlier you can wake up, the better!
One of the most essential tips for visiting NYC for the first time is to be alert. Don’t be scared, but just take standard precautions that you would take if you were traveling anywhere else.
New York City is a vast city, with a population of 8.4 million people. Make sure to watch your belongings, steer clear of pickpocketers, and try to travel with other people if you can. New York City isn’t the safest place for solo female travelers, unfortunately.
When you think of NYC, you probably think of Manhattan. Well, guess what – NYC is way more than just Manhattan! Be sure to leave Manhattan and take the time to explore the other boroughs on your NYC itinerary as well.
Check out Staten Island, the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens if you can. It’s well worth it and will give you a better idea of the city’s culture. Plus, the other boroughs aren’t as touristy as Manhattan, so you might even bump into some locals while you’re out exploring.
Many people think that they can spend just a few hours heading out to Staten Island and still have the rest of the afternoon to explore elsewhere. Well, one of the most excellent travel tips for NYC is that you’ll want to block off a full day to visit Staten Island.
From waiting for ferries to exploring all that Staten Island has to offer, you’ll soon find that your whole day is over. Just make sure that you plan accordingly! If you give yourself the full day to explore, then you won’t be disappointed.
One of the unknown tips for visiting New York City is that there are free tours. A lot of locals run tours for tourists visiting the city. This is one of the best ways to get acquainted with NYC because you’ll be learning from someone who lives there.
To reiterate the tip mentioned in #1, make sure you book tickets well in advance for these tours. They require that you make a reservation because otherwise, the tours would be filled with so many people that you wouldn’t even be able to hear your guide! Some of the best-known free tours in the city include Free Tours by Foot and Big Apple Greeters.
New York City is enormous. Many first-time visitors forget that and try to wear the most uncomfortable shoes, which is a huge mistake. Don’t forget about this, it’s one of the most essential travel tips for New York City! When it comes to footwear, make sure that you’re wearing shoes that you can walk around in all day without any pain.
While you’ll probably rely on public transportation to get around the city, you’ll still spend a considerable amount of time on your feet. Plus, if you’re exploring a neighborhood, then you’ll be walking a lot because it can be a lot quicker than taking a taxi!
There are many museums in the city that have free days or even “pay as you wish” days. The latter means that practically you can pay what you feel admission is worth. While there are a considerable amount of museums that are always free in NYC (Bronx Museum, American Folk Art Museum, Waterfront Museum, etc.), there are also some that offer free hours.
If you’re interested in visiting a museum during their free hours, you’ll want to get there as early as possible. This is usually the most popular time to visit the museum because it’s the cheapest, so the earlier you’re there, the more likely you are to get in early enough to explore the inside before it’s too busy.
The Neue Galerie, Brooklyn Museum, Staten Island Museum, and 9/11 Memorial Museum are just a few that offer free hours or free days. This is one of the best money-saving tips for traveling to NYC!
If you can, avoid taking taxis at all costs. Most taxis charge you by the distance driven in addition to the amount of time that you’re in the vehicle, and with NYC traffic, that can seriously add up. The average pricing model is 2.50 USD as an initial fee, plus 50 cents per 1/5 mile traveled. There’s also a 50 cents fee for each minute that you’re stuck in traffic.
Public transportation in NYC is a lot better than most people think it is. It’s fast and affordable. If you don’t have a Metro Card, then one way is only 3 USD on the subway. How can you possibly beat that? Plus, the subway can’t get stuck in the same sort of traffic that a taxi can.
Many people visit NYC and try to hail a taxi but do it completely incorrectly. If you’re going to spend time trying to take a taxi, make sure that you do it right, so you’re not spending hours trying to get a cab!
First of all, you want to make sure that you’re standing on the side of the road in which traffic is moving. Then, be on the lookout for an available taxi. This means that there isn’t an “off-duty” light or no lights lit on the top of it at all.
Now, this is where the fun part happens. You don’t yell “taxi” like they do in the movies! That’s just for show. You’ll want to step off the sidewalk slightly (because the driver can’t fully see you on the sidewalk), stick your arm out like you mean it, and try to make eye contact with the driver. It’s as simple as that.
Just like with any city, there are tons of tourist traps in NYC that you’ll want to look out for. Make sure you don’t get roped into them! The #1 location for tourist traps is Times Square because this is where all the tourists go. You’ll usually never find a local here.
Be on the lookout for people dressed in costume or selling blank CDs. There are also many fake electronics stores here, and people dressed up as monks who aren’t monks but try to take your money. You’ll just want to stay highly aware when you’re in the city!
The northeast has lots of crazy weather, and yes, it does experience all four seasons. Don’t try to dress super fashionably, instead, dress correctly for the weather. This often means wearing layers because sometimes it can be super cold in the morning for a while, but it can warm up drastically by the afternoon.
If you’re visiting in the winter, you’ll want to make sure that you bring a heavy winter coat or plan on buying one. NYC can get quite chilly, mostly because it’s right on the water, bringing an extra breeze. Be prepared! This is one of the most underrated tips for traveling to New York City.
New York City is massive. This one links back to one of the earlier tips on this list. After you do your research and find where most of the attractions are that you want to visit, try to book a hotel in that area.
You’ll save yourself tons of time and money! You can then use it as your home base for exploring the rest of the city if there are other areas that you’d like to explore as well. Try to book as far in advance as possible because if this is a popular area, then the accommodation can get booked up quickly.
Generally speaking, Manhattan is one of the best boroughs to stay in NYC, especially if you’re a first timer. If you’re interested in knowing more about neighborhoods in NYC, be sure to check out my guide about the best areas to stay in New York City that includes 10 amazing neighborhoods with lots of useful tips, hotel recommendations and information about each areas.
In case you prefer staying in Airbnbs rather than hotels, check out my post about the best Airbnbs in New York City!
NYC is a fantastic place to visit no matter the time of year, and you’ll want to be able to commemorate that. Bring your camera! You’ll be snapping photos almost everywhere while you’re out and about, and you might even catch some extraordinary magical moments.
Some of the most iconic photo spots in NYC that are perfect for Instagram include the Brooklyn Bridge, Radio City Music Hall, The Channel Gardens, the view of the Flatiron from the top of the Empire State Building and the view of the NYC skyline with the Empire State Building from Top of the Rock.
Now you know all of the best travel tips for NYC, one of the most magical places on Earth. Even if you don’t like visiting touristy destinations, you have put New York on your USA bucket list and visit here at least once! This city is filled with so much to do, and you’ll have some unforgettable adventures.
If you have any questions feel free to leave a comment below or send me an email, I always love helping you out! Do you know some other great travel tips for NYC that I should include on this list? Let me know in the comments!
The city that never sleeps should be a place that you visit at least once in your life. New York City is vibrant and is filled with so many different cultures and unique places to explore. It definitely deserves to be on top of your USA bucket list!
If you’re planning to visit NYC for the first time, you might feel a bit overwhelmed when it comes to choosing a place to stay due to the massive size of the city. To save you some time, in this article I rounded up the best Airbnbs in New York City for every budget! Whether you’re traveling with your other half, your family or your friends, I’m sure you will the perfect place for your needs on this list.
Generally speaking, Airbnbs in New York are cheaper than staying in a hotel room or other accommodation type. Plus, by staying in an Airbnb, you can save even more money by cooking your meals, and you’ll have a lot more room for yourself versus a tiny 300 square foot hotel room. So here are 15 of the best places to stay in New York City!
Disclosure: *This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.*
Price range: $$$
Sleeps: Up to 5 people
Superhost: Yes
Minimum stay: 2 nights
Stay in an apartment fit for royalty in Brooklyn! This apartment is sure to keep you comfortable for a weekend in New York City, from its dark wood furnishings to the regal blue and green accents throughout.
This beautiful apartment is fit for up to five guests and features one bedroom with two beds and one bathroom. Plus, there are tons of luxury amenities, including a jet shower, jacuzzi, his and hers sinks, a gym, and more. If you happen to have a car while visiting New York City, this Airbnb even comes with its parking spot that you’re allowed to use!
The area that it’s located in is entirely residential, so you can expect to experience New York City without the noise. There’s also a bus and train stop right nearby, so you can have easy access to the rest of New York City without that much trouble.
Guest review: “Beautiful just like the photos, Jeffrey was a great host who made sure we had everything we needed and didn’t hesitate to help us we anything we needed. Would definitely recommend this place and would love to stay here again. Clean and cozy for sure.”– Jasmine, January 2021
Price range: $$
Sleeps: Up to 3 people
Superhost: Yes
Minimum stay: 5 nights
If you’re wondering where to stay in New York City and you have some extra money to splurge, look no further than this 1,200 square foot apartment in West Village. Perfect for up to three guests, it features one bedroom, two beds, and one bathroom.
The interior is decorated beautifully, with exposed brick walls and exposed wooden beams across the ceiling. Plants, fun art, and books only further add to the decoration. This apartment is the perfect combination of modern and industrial and is brimming at the seams with character.
Of course, this apartment wouldn’t be complete without its many amenities. Inside, you’ll find a bar cart, fireplace, beautiful kitchen, and a dedicated workspace, which is perfect if you’re a digital nomad. The West Village is known for being one of the best areas to stay in New York City and is filled with great restaurants and shops.
Guest review: “Expect the best location in the West Village with the greatest eateries and peace when you come home to the apartment. You are lucky if you stay here, an amazing Airbnb for the traveling nontraditional person/couple.”– Dawn, November 2020
Price range: $$$
Sleeps: Up to 5 people
Superhost: Yes
Minimum stay: 2 nights
This cottage by the water deserves to be on this list of best Airbnbs in New York City. It’s downright luxurious, located in Queens, and is suitable for up to five guests. There are two bedrooms, three beds, and one and a half bathrooms, and it is only a short walk away from a nearby subway station.
One look at this apartment, and you’ll instantly know why it’s a rare find that’s always booked on Airbnb. The house is filled with bright, colorful decorations, and the windows provide a lot of natural light. It’s also located right on the water so that you can sip on your morning cup of Joe with a breathtaking view.
The amenities are endless, with free coffee, tea, and snacks, in addition to a 60” smart TV, free washer and dryer, and close proximity to JFK Airport. If you stay here, be sure to take the time to explore the rest of Howard Beach, which is a fantastic neighborhood in Queens. Get acquainted with the area by reading the guest booklet that comes with your stay!
Guest review: “Very tidy, beautiful and comfy place that looks exactly like the pictures provided. It was a quiet and peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of NYC. Highly recommend.”– Amour, December 2020
Price range: $$
Sleeps: Up to 4 people
Superhost: Yes
Minimum stay: 3 nights
Located in the Bronx with a five-minute walk to a subway station, this charming apartment is perfect for a long weekend getaway to New York City. Inside the apartment, you’ll find that everything has been recently renovated. The furniture is modern, there’s artwork that adds to the space, and a private backyard, which is extremely rare in New York City!
There’s also a full kitchen, living room, dining room, and a bedroom. Plus, as a bonus, the host will provide you with a free breakfast on your arrival day! You can take it out to eat in your private backyard, which the host has set up with outdoor furniture to make your stay even better.
Guest review: “You can expect to have the exact described experience. I highly recommend this space for your visit. It has ample space, clean, and seemingly a very safe environment for coming in and out at late evening. It is near City Island if like seafood on the water. A few stores within walking distance are available.”– Gloria, March 2020
Price range: $$$
Sleeps: 2 people
Superhost: No
Minimum stay: 2 nights
This modern and comfortable apartment deserves a spot on this list of best Airbnbs in New York City because of its prime location and amazing views. It’s located right near Hell’s Kitchen, within walking distance of Broadway, Times Square, and the best restaurants in the city.
The interior of the apartment is minimalistic yet luxurious at the same time. It’s a corner apartment, so it has huge floor-to-ceiling windows that offer prime views of the New York City skyline. What better way to wake up than to the best view of the city?
In addition to the windows, guests have access to the private rooftop terrace, fully-equipped kitchen, 75-inch television, King bed, and dining room area. Plus, there’s a washer and dryer, air conditioning, and heating, so you’ll be comfortable in this apartment no matter what time of the year you visit.
Guest review: “Great place with an amazing view. We enjoyed every minute of our stay and we can’t wait to visit again. An is very helpful and responds quickly.”– Skander, December 2020
Price range: $$
Sleeps: 2 people
Superhost: Yes
Minimum stay: 2 nights
This charming studio is comfortable, cozy, and full of character, making it perfect for this list of best Airbnbs in New York City. It’s ideal for up to two guests and has one bed and one bathroom.
The location is what makes this Airbnb so perfect. It’s right in East Village, an area that is known for its great bars, restaurants, and shops. It’s also an incredibly artistic area, so you’ll find lots of galleries nearby. Hop on the subway and you’ll be to SoHo, Chinatown, and Lower Manhattan within minutes.
This beautiful studio apartment has been decorated with furniture curated from West Elm and Anthropology, so it has a very bohemian yet modern vibe. The kitchen comes fully equipped with a coffee maker and blender, so you can whip up your own meals quickly. The exposed brick wallpaper only adds to the interior of the apartment.
If you’re looking for an Airbnb for a romantic NYC getaway, this is it!
Guest review: “Our stay was perfect, there were so many thoughtful touches. It was so cozy we never wanted to leave!”– Emily, January 2021
Price range: $$$
Sleeps: Up to 3 people
Superhost: Yes
Minimum stay: 2 nights
Times Square is one of the top tourist attractions that can’t be missed in New York City, and with this Airbnb, you can stay right in the heart of it. Imagine waking up to views of Times Square in the morning! This modern apartment can host up to three guests at a time and is run by a superhost.
The location is perfect. From this corner apartment, you’ll have views of both Times Square and the Hudson River. You can also get to pretty much any tourist attraction you want to by foot since you’ll be right in the middle of both uptown and downtown. One thing to keep in mind is that this area can be quite loud at times.
Many amenities are included, including a washer and dryer, air conditioning, a kitchen with the essentials, and a workspace if you have to work while you’re visiting.
Guest review: “It’s a beautiful place, great location and the is view is outstanding. It has everything you need for your stay. We enjoyed and loved it.” – Jenny, November 2020
Price range: $$
Sleeps: 2 people
Superhost: No
Minimum stay: 1 night
This beautiful studio apartment deserves its spot on this list of the best Airbnbs in New York City because of its prime location. It’s right next to Central Park, an area where apartments are known for being luxurious and high-quality. Because it’s an exclusive area, this is the perfect place to go for a honeymoon, anniversary, or other romantic getaway for two!
In the apartment, you’ll find high ceilings, lots of natural light, and art deco style furnishings which really give character to the space. There’s also a kitchenette equipped with a microwave, toaster, and coffee machine, so you’ll have all the essentials.
Within minutes, you can walk yourself to the Upper East Side and Lenox Hill. It’s also only a short subway ride away from Times Square.
Guest review: “If exploring Central Park is your goal, as mine was, you can’t beat the location. It’s literally 1 block away. This is a classic New York studio apartment, yet it feels spacious and very livable. I spent a week here and would have been happy to be there longer.”– Saul, August 2020
Price range: $$
Sleeps: Up to 7 people
Superhost: Yes
Minimum stay: 2 nights
Spend a weekend in New York City while staying in an apartment inspired by Versailles architecture and furniture. The entire interior is covered in white, gold, black, and silver accents, which give this apartment so much character.
The apartment is perfect for up to seven guests at a time, so this is the best Airbnb in New York City to stay at if you’re traveling with a larger group. It’s located right near Times Square and Madison Square Garden, so you can easily take public transportation and get anywhere in minutes. You’ll also be closely located near Broadway, Hell’s Kitchen, and all the stores you could want to shop at.
The kitchen in this apartment is fully equipped, featuring a blender and coffee machine. There’s also free wifi and a huge closet, which is hard to come by in New York City. If you need to stay for more than 30 days, the host offers a discount!
Guest review: “Definitely would come back here for another stay, everything was close by. Instructions were very clear on entry. Nino is very quick with response time. Would definitely recommend!”– Brenda, November 2020
Price range: $
Sleeps: Up to 3 people
Superhost: Yes
Minimum stay: 4 nights
A quirky sunlit apartment with exposed brick behind the bed headboard, this apartment is one unique place to stay in New York City’s Lincoln Square area. It’s suitable for up to three guests and boasts two beds despite being a studio.
The apartment is quiet for its location and is on a residential street. There’s also a small kitchenette stocked with tea and coffee, a desk in case you have to work, and two huge closets at your disposal.
What makes this apartment even better is that it’s a short walk away from the subway, so you can quickly go out and explore the rest of New York City whenever you please.
Guest review: “Spacious studio in a great location. The host is very responsive and accommodating. Was a pleasure to stay and would come back for sure!”– Natalia, December 2020
Price range: $
Sleeps: Up to 3 people
Superhost: Yes
Minimum stay: 2 nights
This quiet apartment in Union Square is one of the best Airbnbs in New York City for up to three guests with an affordable nightly rate. There’s even free street parking!
Since it’s located right in Union Square, it’s a short walk away from the Union Square Station, meaning you have the rest of New York City at your doorstep. Many tasty restaurants, bars, stores, and parks are located within walking distance as well. This is a great place to stay for a couple’s getaway for the weekend!
While the apartment is quite cozy, you’ll find that it has everything you’ll need. Plus, you’ll be out exploring the city most of the time instead of staying in the apartment anyway!
Guest review: “Pon was very responsive and kind. Her place was very clean, quiet, and private. I really enjoyed my stay! I recommend this space for any traveller looking for a cute and comfortable place that’s centrally located in Manhattan. The next time I come to NYC I’ll definitely try to book this spot again.”– Sam, December 2020
Price range: $$
Sleeps: Up to 6 people
Superhost: No
Minimum stay: 30 nights
This premium apartment is truly one of the best places to stay in New York City if you’re planning to stay for a longer time. It’s great for up to six guests, has two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and two beds. Plus, it features laundry and a rooftop so that you can have fantastic views of the city!
It’s only a short walk from Times Square and is located in Midtown West, only a few short blocks from Midtown Manhattan. The apartment features beautiful light-colored exposed brick that has been decorated with unique artwork, and the apartment has a very light and beachy vibe.
Guests love the cleanliness of the location and how responsive the hosts are.
Guest review: “Great Airbnb, communication with David (host) was prompt and easy. Location is superb, close to everything! I highly recommend this Airbnb” – Luis, November 2020
Price range: $$
Sleeps: Up to 3 people
Superhost: Yes
Minimum stay: 5 nights
This bright and modern loft apartment for three is beautifully decorated. Inside, you’ll find lots of unique light fixtures, amazing decor, and great city views right out your window.
The Airbnb is located right near Gramercy Park, Union Square, and East Village. Plus, it’s located near two different subway stations, so you can easily travel around the rest of New York City quite easily.
The apartment is filled with lots of great amenities, including an Apple TV, a huge kitchen that’s fully equipped, and black out shades so that you can sleep peacefully despite the floor-to-ceiling windows. The host is also a born and raised New Yorker, so he’s always happy to provide any insights on the city!
Guest review: “The Apartment was great! Nicely laid out with many amenities. Huge windows, a comfortable bed, nice bathroom, beautiful art and in a super location. Jed was very responsive and pleasant to deal with before and throughout our stay. We hope to come back next time we are in NYC.”– Marc, November 2020
Price range: $$
Sleeps: Up to 8 people
Superhost: No
Minimum stay: 1 night
Spend the evening in a clean and bright luxury apartment closely located near LaGuardia Airport. Located in Queens, you’ll find tons of supermarkets, shops, restaurants, cafes, and more in the neighborhood. Plus, there’s a bus stop so you can easily explore the rest of the city in minutes.
This apartment has been newly renovated and has two bedrooms, so it’s great for a family or large friend group of up to eight people. Inside, you’ll find a huge kitchen, large dining room, and fresh yet minimalistic decor. This luxury apartment is the perfect accommodation while visiting New York City!
Guest review: “Farhan’s place is great. He is a fast communicator and his apartment is clean and spacious. The kitchen is stocked with everything you need. I was happy with Farhan helping me with my accomodations. I will definately be back again.”– Mohammed, November 2020
Price range: $$$
Sleeps: Up to 5 people
Superhost: Yes
Minimum stay: 1 night
Last but not least is the ultimate luxury penthouse, with two bedrooms, two beds, and two bathrooms, in addition to a kitchen, dining area, and living room. Each room has floor-to-ceiling windows so that you can see the city that never sleeps any time of day. Plus, there are other amenities that make this place even more perfect, like a bar cart and coffee maker.
The interior is furnished with royalty in mind and features lots of unique places, like mod-style lamps and appliances. This luxury condo is new and is only a short walk away from Central Park, Fifth Avenue, and Madison Square Garden. It’s located in the heart of Midtown West. If you’re planning to splurge a little on your trip, this is truly one of the best Airbnbs for New York City for it!
Guest review: “This place is by far one of the best I have ever stayed. The views are the most beautiful you can find in NYC. I will definitely be coming back for another round. The rooms were huge , the host was very responsive and place clean as ever. Great stay and highly recommended!”– Andrew, December 2020
New York City is truly the perfect getaway, no matter the time of year. The key to having the best experience possible is booking your accommodation well in advance. Make your experience even more memorable by staying in one of the best Airbnbs in New York City!
If you have any questions feel free to leave a comment below or send me an email, I always love helping you out! Do you know of any other unique Airbnbs in New York City that I should include on this list? Let me know in the comments!
Planning to visit the Big Apple for the first time? Well, you are in for treat because the city never sleeps! From dynamism, different cultures and heterogeneity, this city will make you feel brand new indeed. Sometimes it feels like a whirlwind to even roundabout the countless places where you can stay in New York City.
New York City offers excellent places to stay at and there is always something available for everyone. Since there are thousands of places to choose from, one might find themselves in a dilemma. If you are one of them, don’t worry, I got you covered! This guide will help you choose the best areas to stay in New York City.
Disclosure: *This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.*
NYC consist of five different boroughs (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx and Staten Island) and there are hundreds of distinct neighborhoods throughout the boroughs. Although Manhattan is the smallest of the five boroughs, it’s undoubtedly the most popular one among tourists looking for the best areas to stay in New York City.
New York City is a place that has something for everyone. Generally speaking, in order to avail the best offers and the best experience, you need to look out for the low seasons. However, there is no surprise that New York City is filled with globetrotters all year round. So, one of the best NYC travel tips I can give you is that if you found a great place to stay, make sure to book well ahead of schedule!
Here’s a quick overview of the best areas to stay in New York City with hotel recommendations for each area. In case you prefer staying in Airbnbs rather than hotels, check out my post about the best Airbnbs in New York City!
Wondering where to stay in New York City? Don’t worry, I got you covered! In this article you will find all the best areas to stay in New York City together with a bunch of useful information about each area, pros and cons, and some hotel recommendations. If you’re a visual type, you can use the below map for getting familiar with each areas mentioned in this article. Let’s dive right in!
Midtown Manhattan is the best area to stay in New York City for first timers. If you stay in Midtown Manhattan area, the famous sightseeing destinations like 5th Avenue, Times Square, Broadway Theatres, Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), Rockefeller Centre, Central Park and Empire State Building will be just a stone’s throw away.
This way, you can explore New York City on foot without having to spend on transportation. By avoiding the tiring journey to the sightseeing spots, you will also save a lot of time.
Midtown Manhattan is also well connected to other parts of New York City. If you want to visit the far-off destinations in NYC, you are in for a treat as very major subway line runs through Midtown Manhattan.
PROS
CONS
Midtown Manhattan indeed is one of the best neighbourhoods to stay in NYC. If you want something fitting your budget perfectly, here are some recommendations that you can consider looking into.
LUXURY – 1 Hotel Central Park
Offering a restaurant and a fitness centre, 1 Hotel Central Park is located right next to Central Park. Each room will provide you with air conditioning, a seating area and a private bathroom. The on-site restaurant, Jams, features an open kitchen and it is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
MID-RANGE – Hyatt Place New York/Midtown-South
Just 5 minutes’ walk from the Empire State Building, this Manhattan hotel offers free Wi-Fi and modern rooms equipped with a flat-screen TV. The 34th Street—Herald Square underground station is 4 minutes’ walk away.
BUDGET – MOXY NYC Times Square
Located 1,300 ft (400 m) from Madison Square Garden, MOXY NYC Times Square, offers pet-friendly accommodations, and features free WiFi and a fitness center. All rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV and air purification systems and each room has a private bathroom.
Lower Manhattan is undoubtedly among the best areas to stay in New York City for tourists on a budget. Why? Excellent accommodation options are available to book at a pocket-friendly tariff.
Lower Manhattan is also known for many walkable tourist spots like the Wall Street district, Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, World Trade Centre, 9/11 Memorial, and Battery Park. This helps you save on transportation costs and you can also walk to some fantastic neighbourhoods around the Lower Manhattan area like Greenwich Village, East Village, Little Italy, and Nolita.
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LUXURY – Crosby Street Hotel
Located on a cobbled street in the SoHo neighborhood, this contemporary design hotel features a beautiful inner courtyard and an on-site terrace restaurant. The Crosby Street Hotel offers bright, modern rooms with high ceilings and full-length windows.
MID-RANGE – Hotel 50 Bowery
A member of the Joie de Vivre hotel group, Hotel 50 Bowery in Chinatown is a boutique hotel that enables guests to easily access Lower East Side, Tribeca, Soho, Little Italy and Brooklyn neighborhoods. Complimentary WiFi, 24-hour fitness centre and an onsite restaurant are available.
BUDGET – East Village Hotel
Located in Manhattan’s East Village, this hotel is surrounded by restaurants, bars, and night life. Each guest studio of this private residence offers queen size bedding, stainless kitchen appliances, including fridge, stove, dishwasher, and microwave, as well as all necessary utensils and cutlery.
Thanks to Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Sex and the City, and Gossip Girl, for the most part, you already know what the Upper East Side is all about. Once home to the empires like the Rockefellers, Whitney’s, and Astor’s, the Upper East Side area in New York City is a sweet haven for all the luxury lovers.
Apart from luxury hotels and star restaurants, 5th Avenue at Upper East Side is the best neighbourhood to stay in New York City as it is adorned with the city’s most famous museums that display NYCs finest collection of art, history, design, and culture.
Also known as the Museum Mile, 5th avenue consists of museums like the Guggenheim Museum, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Jewish Museum, the Goethe Institute, and the Neue Galerie. At Upper East Side, things are a lot quieter, hence you can take a leisurely walk or go for a run in the famous Central Park.
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LUXURY – The Pierre, A Taj Hotel
The Pierre, A Taj Hotel is located across from Central Park at 61st Street. A part of the New York City skyline with its copper mansard roof, The Pierre offers guests white glove luxury service. The hotel is close to high-end shopping destinations and is only steps away from Bergdorf Goodman.
MID-RANGE – Courtyard New York Manhattan/Upper East Side
Located in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, this hotel is within 15 minutes’ walk from Guggenheim Museum and Central Park. A fitness centre is available. Tastefully decorated, each room is equipped with coffee-making facilities and a desk.
Located on the west side of Central Park, Upper West Side is hands down one of the best areas to stay in New York City. The Upper West Side area is famous amongst architecture lovers who can stroll along Central Park West, West End Avenue, and Riverside Drive to marvel at the large, ornate buildings and apartments.
The Upper West Side area is also known for housing pristine institutions like the Lincoln Centre, Juilliard School, Fordham University, and American Museum of Natural History. If you are a Beatles fan, staying at Upper West Side could be the best way to feel close to them by paying homage to John Lennon at the Strawberry Fields memorial.
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LUXURY – Trump International New York
Located at the juncture of Columbus Circle and Broadway, this 5-star hotel is minutes from Central Park. Each spacious room at Trump International New York provides large windows with views of the city or Central Park. It also features Jean Georges and Nougatine restaurants.
MID-RANGE – Hotel Beacon
This hotel has rooms and suites with kitchenettes and living room seating areas. The Hotel Beacon is on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, 805 m from Central Park. There’s a business center for guest use and the hotel offers laundry service and luggage storage.
BUDGET – HI NYC Hostel
The Hostelling International New York offers dormitory-style rooms with shared bathrooms. Linens, towels and a housekeeping service are included. Some rooms include breakfast. This uptown New York hostelis 1 block from Broadway Street and a 10-minute walk from Central Park.
It doesn’t matter if it’s your first time or the billionth time in New York City, Chelsea and Greenwich Village are some of the best neighbourhoods to stay in New York. Greenwich Village with the Washington Square and Chelsea with the High Line Park offers amazing New York City views and are filled with life.
The areas also have their fair share of glitz and fashion. They are home to the high-end boutiques of Diane Von Furstenberg, Tory Burch, and Alexander Wang. If you are a real foodie, you can enjoy your food at one of the many beautiful restaurants these areas have to offer. Also, if you are looking to tickle your funny bone, Greenwich Village has amazing comedy clubs that you should visit.
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LUXURY – The Standard, High Line New York
Featuring a roof terrace with a hot tub, The Standard, High Line New York is located in the Meatpacking District, 29 m from the High Line. Every room at the hotel features floor-to-ceiling windows and a city or river view. Each room also comes with a flat-screen TV, an overstocked minibar and a private bathroom.
The non-smoking Fairfield Inn Manhattan offers bright rooms with cable flat-screen TV and work desk, just one block from Broadway. Rooms are accessible by elevator and fitness equipment is available.
BUDGET – Moxy NYC Chelsea
The property boasts a fitness centre, a shared lounge and a bar. Moxy NYC Chelsea is located in New York and is 800 m from Madison Square Garden. All guest rooms in the hotel are equipped with an air purifier and a flat-screen TV with cable channels.
SoHo stands for South of Houston Street, and Lower East Side is surrounded by Houston Street in the north and South Street in the south. If you are longing for a hipster vibe, travel directly to the SoHo and Lower East Side areas. From vintage clothing stores to drooling restaurants, SoHo and Lower East Side has it all.
You can have a laid-back experience in SoHo with bountiful cast-iron buildings, vintage art and design stores, and a quiet wine and dine. The Lower East Side is a unique area with lots of history housed in the Tenement Museum, the International Centre of Photography Museum, and the New Museum.
If you have visited all the famous tourist spots New York City has to offer, then you can experience the local life in these areas of the town. Don’t forget to visit Little Italy, the Bowery, and Chinatown located within walking distance.
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