Best places to stay in New York
New York is made up of five boroughs: the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island. For first-time visitors, Manhattan is the place to be—it’s the heart of the city and home to most of its iconic attractions. Beyond the hustle and bustle of Midtown, take a stroll through the Lower East Side for a taste of local life, explore the glitzy nightlife of the Meatpacking District, and indulge in delicious soul food and stunning brownstone architecture in Harlem. Down south, you can wander through the lively streets of Chinatown and Little Italy, where the diverse cultures of this global city really come to life.
Where to stay near the popular attractions
If you’re in New York to check out the famous sights, Midtown is where you’ll want to be. This area, roughly the central third of Manhattan, boasts the towering silhouettes of the Chrysler Building and the Empire State Building, alongside the buzzing energy of Times Square with its bright neon lights. The northern edge of Midtown meets Central Park, the city’s green oasis, perfect for a leisurely walk or a visit to the fantastic Metropolitan Museum of Art. Don’t forget to pop into Grand Central Station, not just a hub for trains but a stunning site worth seeing in its own right.
Where to stay with your family
For families visiting Manhattan, Battery Park City at the southern tip of the island is a brilliant choice. It’s quiet and safe, yet conveniently close to the main attractions via the subway. The area is home to several parks, including Battery Park, where the kids can enjoy the SeaGlass Carousel and take in the breathtaking view of the Statue of Liberty. Just a hop, skip, and a jump away is One World Observatory, where you can shoot up 102 floors in a mere 47 seconds for some of the best views in the city. For family-friendly accommodation, the Conrad New York Downtown offers a touch of luxury with stunning water views.
Where to find cheap hotels
If you’re on the lookout for budget-friendly hotels in New York, you can’t go wrong with The Pod Hotels, which offer great value in popular locations. The Pod Times Square, Pod 39, and Pod 51 are all set in the heart of Midtown, while Pod Brooklyn is just a short jaunt away in the trendy Williamsburg area. These hotels come with rooftops and courtyards, lounges for relaxing or working, and even free guided tours. And if you’re booking last minute, check out Ravel Hotel in emerging Long Island City, where you can often find rooms for under €100 if you act fast.
Where to stay as a Solo Traveller
Despite its flashy reputation, Manhattan has plenty of good hostels perfect for solo travellers seeking that "backpacker" vibe. Nap York Central Park Sleep Station boasts a fantastic location right at the southeast corner of the park, featuring nifty twin-size pods with sleek privacy dividers. HI New York City is nestled in the peaceful Upper West Side and offers a great atmosphere for meeting fellow travellers with its big outdoor patio and garden. If having your own bathroom is a must, consider the Ace Hotel New York, which has comfy single rooms with en-suites and minibars right in the heart of the action.
