Where to Stay in Manhattan
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Quick Answer
Stay in Lower East Side
Provides more affordable accommodation options and a vast array of budget-friendly food choices, alongside a buzzing atmosphere.
See full Manhattan neighbourhood guideTop 3 Areas to Stay in Manhattan
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Lower East Side
A dynamic neighborhood blending historic immigrant roots with a hip, artistic, and energetic modern scene.
Our top picks in Lower East Side
Stylish hotel with a popular Dirty French restaurant and a striking design.
Book NowCharming boutique hotel with uniquely decorated rooms and a friendly atmosphere.
Book NowModern hotel with a popular rooftop pool and bar offering great city views.
Book Now
Greenwich Village
Bohemian charm meets historic brownstones, with a vibrant arts scene and lively nightlife.
Our top picks in Greenwich Village
Upper West Side
A family-friendly, residential neighborhood known for its cultural institutions and proximity to Central Park.
Our top picks in Upper West Side
Elegant hotel offering a comfortable stay with good amenities near Central Park.
Book NowHistoric hotel with a prime location across from the Museum of Natural History.
Book NowStylish boutique hotel inspired by the arts, offering a unique guest experience.
Book NowWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Lower East Side | Mid-range | A dynamic neighborhood blending historic immigrant roots with a hip, artistic, and energetic modern scene. | nightlifefoodies |
Midtown | Luxury | The bustling heart of commerce and entertainment, packed with iconic landmarks and endless energy. | first-timerscouples |
Greenwich Village | Mid-range | Bohemian charm meets historic brownstones, with a vibrant arts scene and lively nightlife. | couplesfoodies |
Upper West Side | Mid-range | A family-friendly, residential neighborhood known for its cultural institutions and proximity to Central Park. | familiesculture |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Manhattan
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in Manhattan
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Manhattan. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Manhattan
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Manhattan
Lower East Side
Mid-rangeA dynamic neighborhood blending historic immigrant roots with a hip, artistic, and energetic modern scene.
- +Incredible concentration of bars, clubs, and live music venues
- +Diverse and affordable food scene
- +Vibrant street art and galleries
- -Can be noisy and crowded, especially on weekends
- -Accommodation options are more limited and can be basic
Midtown
LuxuryThe bustling heart of commerce and entertainment, packed with iconic landmarks and endless energy.
- +Central location with easy access to major attractions
- +Abundant dining and shopping options
- +Excellent public transport connectivity
- -Can be overwhelmingly crowded and noisy
- -Lacks a strong residential feel
Greenwich Village
Mid-rangeBohemian charm meets historic brownstones, with a vibrant arts scene and lively nightlife.
- +Charming streets with unique shops and restaurants
- +Rich history and vibrant cultural scene
- +Excellent live music and comedy venues
- -Can be expensive
- -Hotels can be smaller and older
Upper West Side
Mid-rangeA family-friendly, residential neighborhood known for its cultural institutions and proximity to Central Park.
- +Quieter and more relaxed atmosphere
- +Excellent access to museums and parks
- +Good selection of family-friendly restaurants
- -Further from some downtown attractions
- -Fewer nightlife options compared to other areas
Daily Budget (Budget)
USD 150/day
Hidden Gems in Manhattan
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Union Square Greenmarket
FREEMore than just a farmer's market, this is a culinary hub where locals shop for the freshest produce, artisanal cheeses, and baked goods directly from farmers. The energy and quality are unmatched.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Manhattan
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Manhattan Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Manhattan on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Manhattan Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Manhattan with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Manhattan: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Manhattan's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Manhattan: Scenic Excursion
Escape Manhattan for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Manhattan Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Manhattan's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Manhattan
Backpackers in Manhattan: FAQ
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