Where to Stay in New York City
United States
|Pop. 8.8M
|4 neighbourhoods covered
|Updated March 2026
Photo: Pedro Lastra / Unsplash
Quick Answer: Best Area to Stay
For most visitors, Greenwich Village is the best neighbourhood to stay in New York City. Bohemian charm meets historic brownstones and lively street life. Ideal for couples, foodies, culture. Budget travellers can get by on USD 120/day.
Areas to Avoid in New York City
Safety rated "safe". See which areas need extra caution and where to stay instead.
Best Neighbourhoods at a Glance
| Neighbourhood | Vibe | Budget | Best For | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Greenwich Village | Bohemian charm meets historic brownstones and lively street life. | Luxury | couples, foodies | Generally very safe during the day and e... |
| Midtown Manhattan | The bustling heart of NYC, dominated by skyscrapers, theaters, and iconic landmarks. | Luxury | first-timers, families | Generally safe due to high police presen... |
| Lower East Side | Gritty, hip, and historically diverse, offering a vibrant mix of dive bars, trendy boutiques, and live music venues. | Mid-range | nightlife, solo travelers | Generally safe, but like any urban area,... |
| Brooklyn Heights | Charming and historic residential neighborhood with stunning Manhattan skyline views. | Luxury | families, couples | One of the safest neighborhoods in NYC, ... |
Greenwich Village
LuxuryBohemian charm meets historic brownstones and lively street life.
Generally very safe during the day and evening, but be aware of your surrounding...
Midtown Manhattan
LuxuryThe bustling heart of NYC, dominated by skyscrapers, theaters, and iconic landmarks.
Generally safe due to high police presence, but be vigilant against pickpockets ...
Lower East Side
Mid-rangeGritty, hip, and historically diverse, offering a vibrant mix of dive bars, trendy boutiques, and live music venues.
Generally safe, but like any urban area, be aware of your surroundings, especial...
Brooklyn Heights
LuxuryCharming and historic residential neighborhood with stunning Manhattan skyline views.
One of the safest neighborhoods in NYC, with a strong community feel and low cri...
Top 3 Areas to Stay in New York City
Liveliest areas for nightlife, culture, and entertainment
Greenwich Village
Bohemian charm meets historic brownstones and lively street life.
Our top picks in Greenwich Village
Lower East Side
Gritty, hip, and historically diverse, offering a vibrant mix of dive bars, trendy boutiques, and live music venues.
Our top picks in Lower East Side
Midtown Manhattan
The bustling heart of NYC, dominated by skyscrapers, theaters, and iconic landmarks.
Our top picks in Midtown Manhattan
Iconic luxury hotel at the corner of Central Park South, offering unparalleled elegance and service.
Book NowModern hotel with a rooftop bar offering stunning views of the city.
Book NowBudget-friendly hotel with compact, well-designed rooms and communal spaces.
Book NowWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Things to Do in New York City
Popular tours, activities, and experiences you can book in advance
🚶Walking Tour
Explore the city on foot with a local guide
🍽️Food Tour
Taste the best local dishes and street food
🚐Day Trip
Discover stunning destinations just outside the city
🏛️Museum & Culture
Skip-the-line access to top museums and galleries
🚌Hop-on Hop-off Bus
See all the highlights from an open-top bus
⛵Boat Tour
See the city skyline from the water
👨🍳Cooking Class
Learn to cook authentic local recipes
🌙Night Tour
Experience the city after dark with a guided tour
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
New York City at a Glance
8 categories
Top Tips for New York City
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Utilize the extensive subway system; purchase a MetroCard for unlimited rides. Walking is often the best way to experience neighborhoods, but the subway is essential for longer distances.
Getting Around
Download a subway map app (like Citymapper or Google Maps) and familiarize yourself with the subway map before you arrive; it's the most efficient way to get around.
Watch Out For
The 'shell game' or three-card monte on sidewalks.
Solo Female Travel
New York City is generally safe for solo female travelers. Exercise standard precautions: be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone late at night in deserted areas, and trust your instincts.
Hidden Gems in New York City
Lesser-known spots the locals love
The City Reliquary Museum
This quirky museum showcases the history of New York City through a fascinating collection of ephemera, artifacts, and local memorabilia. It offers a truly unique and intimate glimpse into the city's past.
Governors Island
FREEA short ferry ride from Manhattan, this car-free island offers stunning harbor views, historic forts, art installations, and plenty of green space for biking and picnicking. It's a peaceful escape from the city bustle.
Arthur Avenue
Often called the 'Real Little Italy', this vibrant neighborhood boasts authentic Italian bakeries, delis, butchers, and restaurants. It's a fantastic place to experience genuine Italian-American culture and delicious food.
Green-Wood Cemetery
FREEMore than just a cemetery, this historic landmark is a beautiful arboretum and a popular spot for walking, birdwatching, and appreciating stunning architecture. It offers a serene and picturesque landscape with a rich history.
Grand Central Market
While Grand Central Terminal is famous, many miss its bustling lower-level market filled with artisanal food vendors. It's a perfect spot to grab a delicious bite from a variety of high-quality purveyors.
Bushwick Collective
FREEThis outdoor art gallery features a rotating collection of vibrant and thought-provoking murals by local and international street artists. It's an ever-evolving canvas that transforms the neighborhood into an open-air museum.
Things to Do in New York City
Popular tours, activities, and experiences you can book in advance
🚶Walking Tour
Explore the city on foot with a local guide
🍽️Food Tour
Taste the best local dishes and street food
🚐Day Trip
Discover stunning destinations just outside the city
🏛️Museum & Culture
Skip-the-line access to top museums and galleries
🚌Hop-on Hop-off Bus
See all the highlights from an open-top bus
⛵Boat Tour
See the city skyline from the water
👨🍳Cooking Class
Learn to cook authentic local recipes
🌙Night Tour
Experience the city after dark with a guided tour
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Top-rated New York City tours and activities
Skip-the-line tickets, guided walking tours, food experiences, and day trips. Reserve now, pay later; free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
What It Costs in New York City
Daily budget per person in USD
💡40% cheaper than New York
USD 120/day
USD 250/day
USD 600/day
Where to Stay in New York City
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Washington Square Park5 min
- SoHo15 min
- West Village10 min
Pros
- +Abundant dining and nightlife options
- +Beautiful, historic architecture
- +Central and well-connected
Cons
- -Can be very crowded
- -Expensive accommodation
Top stays in Greenwich Village
The Marlton Hotel
$$$Chic, Parisian-inspired boutique hotel with a popular lobby bar.
Washington Square Hotel
$$Art deco hotel with a prime location directly across from Washington Square Park.
The Jane Hotel
$Historic, quirky hotel offering small, cabin-like rooms and shared bathrooms for a budget-friendly experience.
Best for
Walk to
- Times Square10 min
- Central Park15 min
- Grand Central Terminal5 min
- Rockefeller Center5 min
Pros
- +Close proximity to major attractions and theaters
- +Excellent public transport links
- +Wide range of hotel options
Cons
- -Extremely touristy and crowded
- -Lacks local neighborhood feel
- -Can be noisy
Top stays in Midtown Manhattan
The Plaza Hotel
$$$$Iconic luxury hotel at the corner of Central Park South, offering unparalleled elegance and service.
Hyatt Centric Times Square New York
$$$Modern hotel with a rooftop bar offering stunning views of the city.
Pod Times Square
$$Budget-friendly hotel with compact, well-designed rooms and communal spaces.
The Knickerbocker
$$$Historic luxury hotel on Times Square, known for its rooftop bar and rich past.
Best for
Walk to
- East Village10 min
- SoHo25 min
- Chinatown20 min
Pros
- +Excellent and affordable food scene
- +Thriving nightlife and live music
- +Authentic New York atmosphere
Cons
- -Can be noisy at night
- -Accommodation options are more limited and can be basic
Best for
Walk to
- Brooklyn Bridge Park5 min
- DUMBO15 min
- Cobble Hill15 min
Pros
- +Incredible views of Manhattan
- +Tranquil and picturesque streets
- +Excellent access to Brooklyn Bridge Park
Cons
- -Limited dining and nightlife options compared to Manhattan
- -Accommodation is scarce and expensive
Areas to be cautious
- Times Square (at peak hours): Overwhelmingly crowded with tourists, aggressive street vendors, and a general lack of authentic New York character. It's better for a quick visit than to stay or spend significant time.
- Certain parts of the Bronx and Queens after dark: While many areas are safe and vibrant, some less-trafficked residential streets can have higher crime rates. It's always best to stick to well-lit, populated areas and research specific locations if venturing outside main tourist zones.
Insider tip: Utilize the extensive subway system; purchase a MetroCard for unlimited rides. Walking is often the best way to experience neighborhoods, but the subway is essential for longer distances.
Where to Stay in New York City
Compare hotel deals across the best neighbourhoods on Expedia.
Stay in Greenwich Village
Bohemian charm meets historic brownstones and lively street life.
Stay in Midtown Manhattan
The bustling heart of NYC, dominated by skyscrapers, theaters, and iconic landmarks.
Stay in Lower East Side
Gritty, hip, and historically diverse, offering a vibrant mix of dive bars, trendy boutiques, and live music venues.
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Places to Stay in New York City
Be the first to list your property in New York City. Reach thousands of travellers looking for accommodation, with no commissions.
List Your PropertySafety in New York City
SafeSolo Female Travel
New York City is generally safe for solo female travelers. Exercise standard precautions: be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone late at night in deserted areas, and trust your instincts.
At Night
Most tourist areas are well-lit and populated, making them relatively safe. However, be cautious in less-trafficked streets, especially in outer boroughs. Use ride-sharing services or taxis if unsure.
Emergency
911
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1The 'shell game' or three-card monte on sidewalks.
- 2Street vendors selling counterfeit goods or overcharging.
- 3Distraction pickpocketing in crowded areas like Times Square and on the subway.
Compare hotel deals in New York City
See today's prices across hundreds of hotels. Free cancellation on most bookings, so you can lock in a great rate risk-free.
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
Travel Insurance for New York City
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Stay Connected in United States
Skip expensive roaming. Get an eSIM for United States and have data the moment you land.
Get an eSIMGetting Around New York City
Transport, connectivity, and costs
✈️
Airport to City
JFK: AirTrain to subway ($11.50, ~60-75 min), Taxi ($70 flat fare + tolls/tip, ~45-90 min). LGA: Bus to subway ($2.90, ~60-75 min), Taxi ($45-60 + tolls/tip, ~30-75 min). EWR: AirTrain to NJ Transit to Penn Station ($15.25, ~60 min), Taxi ($70-100 + tolls/tip, ~45-90 min).
🎫
Day Pass
$11 (unlimited 24-hour rides)
Single: $2.90 (with MetroCard)
🚶
Walkability
Very WalkableUber, Lyft
📶
WiFi
Good50-100 Mbps (download) in cafes
Public Transport
NYC Subway (MTA): Extensive network of subway lines (24/7) and buses.
Ride-share
Uber, Lyft - typically $15-$40 for short to medium distances within Manhattan.
Transport Tip
Download a subway map app (like Citymapper or Google Maps) and familiarize yourself with the subway map before you arrive; it's the most efficient way to get around.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Many cafes (Starbucks, local coffee shops), public libraries, LinkNYC kiosks, some parks.
Coworking
WeWork (various locations, ~$50/day pass), Regus (various locations, ~$40/day pass), local smaller coworking spaces.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: May, Sep, Oct
Plan Your Perfect New York City Trip
Tell us what you love and we'll build a personalised day-by-day itinerary with the best spots, tours, and hotels. Completely free.
Hotels & Accommodation in New York City
Browse and compare hotels, apartments, and hostels on the interactive map below.
Powered by Stay22. We may earn a commission from bookings made through this map.
Ready to book in New York City?
Compare prices across thousands of hotels on Expedia. Bundle with flights for extra savings.
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
Found your hotel in New York City?
We search 30+ sites including members-only platforms like Secret Escapes and Voyage Privé. Most people save 14-23%.
Compare hotel deals in New York City
Search thousands of hotels on Expedia. Bundle with flights for extra savings.
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
Who Is New York City Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
First-Timers
Provides immediate access to iconic landmarks like Times Square, Rockefeller Center, and Central Park, offering a quintessential NYC experience.
Couples
Offers romantic strolls through historic streets, intimate dining, and a vibrant yet charming atmosphere perfect for shared experiences.
Solo Female Travelers
Provides a safe, walkable environment with plenty of cafes, shops, and cultural activities, making it easy to explore independently.
Foodies
Boasts an incredible density of diverse and affordable eateries, from classic delis to trendy international cuisine, offering endless culinary exploration.
Families
Offers a quieter, picturesque setting with easy access to family-friendly Brooklyn Bridge Park and stunning views, providing a more relaxed base.
Budget Backpackers
Features more affordable accommodation options and a plethora of budget-friendly food choices, combined with a lively atmosphere.
New York City on TripAdvisor
Read traveller reviews, tips, and photos
About New York City
New York, often called New York City (NYC), is the most populous city in the United States. It is located at the southern tip of New York State on New York Harbor, one of the world's largest natural harbors. The city comprises five boroughs, each coextensive with its respective county.
Frequently Asked Questions About New York City
Is New York City safe for tourists?
What is the average hotel price in New York City?
What area should I stay in New York City?
When is the best time to visit New York City?
How do I get around New York City?
Get the Full New York City Guide
Neighbourhood picks, hidden gems, and deals for New York City straight to your inbox.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
New York City Guides by Traveller Type
Tailored neighborhood picks for how you travel
Explore More
Nearby Cities
More in United States
- Los Angeles3.8M
- Brooklyn2.7M
- Chicago2.7M
- Queens2.3M
- Houston2.3M
- Phoenix1.7M
- Philadelphia1.6M
- San Antonio1.5M
New York City Guides
- Areas to Avoid in New York City
- Best Time to Visit New York City
- Cost of Living in New York City
- New York City for Solo Female Travellers
- New York City for Couples
- New York City for Families
- New York City for Digital Nomads
- Where to Stay in New York
- Areas to Avoid in New York
