If you are planning a trip to New York, sooner or later you will face the big question: where to stay in New York. From experience, I can say that it is not an easy task. The atmosphere of the city changes a lot from one neighborhood to another, and the same happens with hotels.
That’s why choosing the right area to sleep in New York should be one of your main priorities, so you feel comfortable from the very first day.
I admit that I am quite picky when it comes to accommodation. I like places that look good, are clean, and where I can rest properly at night without noise. This can be difficult in New York because of ambulances and nighttime noise, but it is possible.
In this article, I share the accommodations in New York that meet my standards for location, quality, and price. These are places I would recommend without hesitation to family and friends. I also share my experience at the hotel we chose on our last trip, which we really liked, both because of the room and the helpful reception staff who gave us great travel tips.
Best areas to stay in New York
Before explaining the recommended areas, it’s important to talk about prices.
Hotel prices vary depending on the season. During low season (January, February, March, and November), a double room usually costs between €150 and €350 per night, depending on the area and hotel type.
In high season (December and summer), prices increase, and it’s common to pay between €250 and €450 per night.
New York is not a cheap city, but to make it easier, here I have gathered hotels with the best quality-price ratio in each area. All recommended zones are either in Manhattan or in well-connected areas of Brooklyn. Cheaper hotels in distant areas usually don’t compensate for the time spent on the subway.
1. Midtown Manhattan
Midtown Manhattan is the most central area to stay in New York and is ideal for first-time visitors with a higher budget.
You’ll be close to Times Square, the Empire State Building, and Bryant Park, and you’ll have access to many subway lines.
My favorite area is between 5th and 8th Avenue, and 24th to 50th Street, where the atmosphere is pleasant and everything is nearby. Staying in Times Square is also an option, but it is very noisy day and night.
Prices range between €200 and €450 per night. Be careful when booking, as some hotels are old and poorly maintained.
2. Lower Manhattan (Downtown)
Lower Manhattan is one of my favorite areas, and we stayed here on one of our trips.
This area includes One World Trade Center, the 9/11 Memorial, Wall Street, Battery Park, and the ferry to the Statue of Liberty. It is very well connected by subway.
The quietest area is around Battery Park, where we stayed in a room with sea views and a very comfortable bed. The staff spoke Spanish and were very friendly. The rooms were also quite large, which is rare in New York.
Wall Street is another good option, especially at night and on weekends when the area is very calm. There are many international restaurants and good cafés for breakfast.
Prices are usually between €150 and €300 per night, cheaper than Midtown.
3. Williamsburg (Brooklyn)
Williamsburg is a great option if you want a neighborhood with personality.
It has a young and creative atmosphere, with cafés, vintage shops, and art galleries. We enjoyed staying here because of the restaurants and nightlife.
Williamsburg is large, and it’s better to avoid staying near Lee Avenue, where the orthodox Jewish community is concentrated, as the area feels less welcoming.
Travel time to Manhattan is about 25 minutes, which is normal in New York. Prices range from €180 to €300 per night.
4. Upper West Side
The Upper West Side is ideal if you prefer a quieter area with classic buildings and tree-lined streets.
You’ll be close to Central Park and the Natural History Museum. The area is well connected by subway and feels residential and safe.
Prices are slightly lower than Midtown, around €150 to €300 per night, making it a good option for quality accommodation.
5. Chelsea
Chelsea is a modern neighborhood with a mix of hip and traditional New York style. You’ll find Chelsea Market, the High Line Park, and many restaurants.
It is very well connected by subway, and many attractions are within walking distance. Hotel prices are similar to Midtown, but during low season you can find good deals.