What do you picture when you think of New York City? Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, Broadway, The West Village, Wall Street and the Financial District are just a few of New York’s most iconic tourist attractions. This city is packed with history, culture, food, fashion, and fun.
From Washington Square Park to Upper East Side, The Brooklyn Bridge and Greenwich Village, there’s heaps of area to explore! New York is undoubtedly one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in the world.
But all of that excitement comes at a cost. Literally. New York City is one of the most expensive travel destinations, which is why we put together this no-stress guide on where to stay in New York City.
Written by our expert travel scribes, this guide will help you decide the best places to stay in New York. We will share our best-kept secrets and hidden gems, so you can find the best area to stay in New York for your style and budget. After reading this post, you’ll be able to book a place in New York with confidence and ease.
So get excited! Below we’ve covered our recommendations for where to stay in New York City.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Backpacking New York on a budget is tough and digs don’t come cheap. But fear not, these are our top recommendations for the best places to stay in New York City.
We’ve got the best hotels, hostels and Airbnbs as well as covering the different areas. If you’re feeling flash, there are some luxury hotels chucked in there too!
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Best Hotel in New York – Freehand New York
Located at the heart of Midtown, Freehand New York is our top choice for where to stay in New York City. This hotel is close to the best landmarks, museums, and restaurants in New York. Rooms are spacious, comfortable and outfitted in a modern-rustic décor. The hotel has a coffee bar, dry cleaning service, and an on-site restaurant and bar. If you’re looking for luxury hotels that don’t break the bank then this is a good shout.
Best Airbnb in New York – Bright & Clean Union Sq Apartment
Perfectly located in West Village, this serviced apartment with every amenity you can imagine also has a shared garden with a bubbling fountain. It has a high-security monitoring system with 16 cameras throughout the building’s public areas and entry doors controlled by electric fobs. This place is recommended for where to stay in New York City if you want to have a home away from home. It’s one of the most incredible Airbnbs in Manhattan, and there’s a lot on offer!
Best Hostel in New York – American Dream Hostel
The Blue Moon Hotel is our top recommendation for a New York hostel if you’re on a budget. Walking distance to New York’s most famous landmarks, this hostel is close to shopping, dining, drinking, and more. It boasts private bathrooms and balconies, as well as refrigerators, coffeemakers, and minibars.
Midtown
Midtown is the neighbourhood at the center of Manhattan. Stretching from the Hudson River to the East River, this neighbourhood is home to famous architecture, vibrant streets, and world-renowned landmarks. Midtown is one of the best places to stay in New York City for first-time visitors.
Lower East Side
Eclectic and vibrant, the Lower East Side is a neighbourhood that seamlessly blends history and modern times and is the best place to stay in New York for those on a budget. One of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city, the Lower East Side was, for many decades, home to a thriving immigrant population.
East Village
With its youthful vibe and independent spirit, East Village is one of the most dynamic and distinct neighbourhoods in New York. It combines old-school charm and modern luxury, creating an atmosphere that encourages locals and visitors to explore its lively streets.
Williamsburg
Williamsburg isn’t just the coolest neighbourhood in New York City; it routinely ranks as one of the trendiest neighbourhoods in the world, characterised by its thriving arts scene and vibrant nightlife. This is the place to see and be seen in New York.
Upper West Side
The Upper West Side is a classic New York neighbourhood and the best place to stay in New York for families. With its iconic architecture, tree-lined streets, and quintessential Brownstone townhomes, this is the New York that most people recognize from movies and TV.
New York City is one of the most massive and sprawling cities in the world. An epicentre for food, fashion, culture, finance and trade, NYC is truly a global metropolis.
It is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the planet; each year New York City attracts more than 50 million domestic and international visitors to tour its museums, gawk at its iconic sights, and stand at the centre of Time Square.
Divided into six boroughs, New York City is home to 59 neighbourhoods. Each borough has its own unique culture and atmosphere and could be a city all on its own. In fact, if Brooklyn was its own city, it would still be one of the biggest cities in the US. For that reason, we are going to focus on accommodation in Manhattan, NYC’s most famous and touristy borough.
Midtown Manhattan: This area is the heart of Manhattan, and where you will find NY’s most iconic landmarks, like Times Square, Grand Central Station, Rockefeller Centre, Broadway and Bryant Park.
Upper West/ Upper East Side: North of Midtown Manhattan is the charming neighbourhoods, Upper West and Upper East Side. On either side of Central Park, these neighbourhoods are home to world-class museums, verdant parks, and famous addresses like Madison and Park Avenues. Expensive as can be, this is also one of the safest places in NYC.
Chelsea/ East and West Villages/ Lower East Side: Travelling south of Midtown, you’ll pass through Chelsea, the East and West Villages, and the Lower East Side before crossing the river to Brooklyn. All incredibly diverse and distinct, these neighbourhoods are where you’ll find great restaurants, vibrant bars, and a plethora of hip hideouts and trendy nightspots.
There are also loads of cool beach spots to explore from New York – Long Island, Cape May, and Montauk. If you choose to head to Montauk, check out these epic Montauk B&Bs.
Still not sure where to stay in New York City? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in New York City
Let’s take a detailed look at the five best neighbourhoods in New York City. Each is a little different than the last, so be sure to check out which is right for you! But hey, it’s a must on your USA backpacking trip so you’ve got to make sure you stay in the right spot, right?!
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
1. Midtown – Where to Stay in New York City for the First Time
Midtown is the neighbourhood at the centre of Manhattan. Stretching from the Hudson River to the East River, this neighbourhood is home to famous architecture, vibrant streets, and world-renowned landmarks.
Many of the places to visit in New York are within walking distance of Midtown Manhattan and the great public transport links make getting to places like The Brooklyn Bridge, Greenwich Village and Upper East Side super easy.
Midtown’s most famous attraction is undoubtedly Times Square. Nicknamed “the crossroads of the world,” this part of Midtown is awash with bright lights, entertainment and shopping. You’ve also got epic views of the city from the Rockefeller Center and the iconic Empire State Building. You’ll also be super close to the Rockefeller Ice Rink if you visit in December.
No first trip to New York City is complete without a visit to Broadway. A historic and cultural landmark, the Great White Way is famous for hosting some of the greatest theatre and musical performances of all time. Whether you’re a longtime culture vulture or new to the scene, you won’t want to miss the chance to see a show on Broadway.
When it comes down to it, Midtown is quite “touristy,” but this means it’s home to some of the best attractions in NYC. That’s why Midtown is our pick for where to stay in New York for sightseeing.
The only downside here is that hotel prices are a bit more expensive and the hotel rooms are that bit smaller for the price! But hey, it’s the heart of NYC baby and it’s where some of the best hotels are located too. If you’re thinking about splashing the cash then there are some great luxury hotels here!
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Best Affordable Hotel in Midtown – Pod 51
Pod 51 is a modern and charming three-star hotel in Midtown. It is a short walk from Bloomingdales and the Museum of Modern Art, surrounded by restaurants, bars and cafés. Rooms are comfortable and adorned in modern décor. There is also a rooftop terrace and garden for guests to enjoy. It’s one of the best hotels for the price in the city.
Best Hotel in Midtown – Freehand New York
Freehand New York is our top recommendation for where to stay in New York. It is centrally located, close to landmarks, museums, restaurants and more. Guests can enjoy comfortable and spacious rooms as well as a coffee bar and a dry cleaning service. There’s a charming on-site restaurant and stylish bar.
Best Airbnb in Midtown – Apartment with Private Terrace
Perfectly located in West Village, this stylish apartment has every amenity you can imagine. There’s also a private terrace where you can sit back and soak in the atmosphere of the city. It’s just a short walk from the Highline park with plenty of awesome places to eat nearby.
Best Hostel in Midtown – Chelsea International Hostel
Conveniently located on Manhattan’s East Side, the Chelsea International Hostel is one of our top recommendations for where to stay in Midtown, New York. Offering shared and private accommodations, this hostel has wifi, a terrace and self-catering facilities. It is close to bars, restaurants and New York’s top attractions like the Empire State Building, Madison Square Garden and Bryant Park.
Things to See and Do in Midtown Manhattan
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Visit the iconic Broadway and watch an incredible play or musical performance.
- Snack on one of NYC’s finest bagels at Best Bagel and Coffee.
- Stand at the centre of Times Square, surrounded by the sights, sounds and smells of New York City.
- Climb to the Top of the Rock (or ride the elevator) and take in the incredible views of NYC from the Rockefeller Center Observation Deck, you’ll get epic views of the Empire State Building from here.
- See unbelievable works of art at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA).
- Excite your senses at Spice Symphony.
- Grab a pint at the Carnegie Club.
- Take a walk down by the iconic East River.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Lower East Side – Where to Stay in Manhattan on a Budget
Eclectic and vibrant, the Lower East Side is a neighbourhood that seamlessly blends history and modern times. One of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city, the Lower East Side was, for many decades, home to a thriving immigrant population.
Today, this southeastern New York City neighbourhood is a hub for art and culture as well as home to hip eateries and trendy bars. Here you’ll find a great variety of lively clubs, stylish restaurants, and fashionable boutiques.
While we wouldn’t say it’s cheap – this is New York City, after all – the Lower East Side is our pick for where to stay in New York on a budget, home to a myriad of affordable accommodation options.
Whether it’s a social hostel or a modern hotel, you’ll be able to find something to fit your style and budget on the Lower East Side. Here you’ll find the best hotels in terms of bang for your buck for sure.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Best Hostel in Lower East Side – Blue Moon Hotel
The Blue Moon Hotel is our top recommendation for where to stay on the Lower East Side. Walking distance to some of New York’s most famous landmarks, this hotel is close to shopping, dining, drinking and more. It boasts private bathrooms and balconies, as well as refrigerators, coffeemakers, and minibars.
Best Hotel in Lower East Side – citizenM New York Bowery
The CitizenM New York Bowery is one of our favourite hotels on the Lower East Side. Conveniently located in the middle of the city, this four-star hotel is close to bars, restaurants, museums and galleries. It boasts a variety of amenities that include an outdoor terrace, an on-site restaurant and 24-hour room service.
Best Hotel in Lower East Side – Redford Hotel
Classic and contemporary, the Redford Hotel is a great base for your time in NYC. It is located within walking distance of public transit as well as a number of New York’s top attractions. It has a swimming pool, and free wifi, and guests can enjoy free coffee and TV in their rooms.
Best Airbnb in Lower East Side – Modern Studio
This bright two-bedroom apartment is furnished with brand-new amenities, including a desk, ultra-comfortable queen-size bed, soft towels and a 26″ flat-screen TV with Netflix. This is an ideal place to stay in New York City if you want to have a home away from home. It’s also just a hop, skip and a jump from the Financial District and Houston Street.
Things to See and Do in Lower East Side
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Feel like a kid again and visit Economy Candy, where you’ll find aisles upon aisles of your favourite sweets and treats.
- Shop local artisans and independent vendors at the Hester Street Fair.
- Grab a drink and enjoy a great night out at Two-Bit’s Retro Arcade.
- Enjoy good beer and live music at Parkside Lounge, the perfect dive bar in New York City.
- Tease your taste buds with bold and delicious flavours at Goa Taco.
- Sink your teeth into a savoury slice of classic New York pizza at Rosario’s Pizzeria.
- Step back in time and explore New York’s history of immigration at the Tenement Museum.
- Go to the iconic Katz Deli over on Houston Street for a Reuben sandwich.
3. East Village – Where to Stay in New York City for the Best Nightlife
With its youthful vibe and independent spirit, East Village is one of the most dynamic and distinct neighbourhoods in New York. It combines old-school charm and modern luxury, creating an atmosphere that encourages locals and visitors to explore its lively streets.
The East Village is also where you’ll find some of New York City’s top nightlife. From cool dive bars and craft beer pubs to rooftop terraces and all-night clubs, this is where you want to stay if you’re looking to experience the best of New York after dark.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Best Affordable Hotel in East Village – East Village Hotel
Set in the heart of the city, East Village Hotel is a smart and stylish three-star hotel. Each of the hotel’s rooms is outfitted with a range of essential amenities, along with an on-site coffee shop/café. A short walk to the East Broadway Subway Station, this hotel is well connected to the rest of the city.
Best Hotel in East Village – Moxy NYC East Village
Moxy NYC East Village is one of our top picks for where to stay in the East Village. Set in the heart of this vibrant nightlife district, it is a short walk to bars, clubs, restaurants, and galleries. It has a number of key features as well as all the essential amenities for a great stay like a gym, bar and lounge.
Best Airbnb in East Village – Bright & Clean Union Sq Apartment
This cosy bright compact studio has the best location you can ever find in Manhattan. On the border of Chelsea, Meatpacking and West Village, it’s the perfect place to stay for a real New Yorker Experience.
Best Hostel in East Village – American Dream Hostel
American Dream Hostel is the closest hostel to East Village and one of the cheapest hostels in New York. A short walk away, this hostel is conveniently located in Manhattan’s Gramercy Park and Flatiron District neighbourhood. It offers private rooms, a common area, hot showers, and a delicious breakfast, you could even say it’s like a bed and breakfast. American Dream Hostel is surrounded by bars, clubs, and New York landmarks.
Things to See and Do in East Village, New York
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Dine on delicious dishes and enjoy a chill atmosphere at Mayahuel Mariposa.
- Sip urbane cocktails at Amor y Amargo.
- Enjoy outstanding drinks and an intimate setting at Death & Company.
- Dance the night away at Webster Hall.
- Try a variety of craft beers at Proletariat, a dark and cosy East Village hotspot.
- Indulge in the incredible dishes at Momofuku Ko.
- Treat yourself to a divine breakfast at Russ & Daughters.
- Savour fresh and flavourful dishes at Prune.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Williamsburg – Coolest Place to Stay in New York City
Across the East River in cool Brooklyn, you’ll find Williamsburg, a hipster hood that oozes cool around every turn.
Williamsburg isn’t just the coolest neighbourhood in New York City; it routinely ranks as one of the trendiest neighbourhoods in the world, characterised by its thriving arts scene and vibrant nightlife. This is the place to see and be seen in New York.
At the centre of Brooklyn, Williamsburg is well connected to Manhattan and easy to reach from the rest of NYC. It’s home to eclectic restaurants, boutique shops, stylish bars, hip tattoo parlours, and rustic rooftop patios.
Best Affordable Hotel in Williamsburg – Pod Brooklyn
Pod Brooklyn is a modern and stylish three-star hotel – and our best recommendation for where to stay in Williamsburg. Located at the centre of this trendy neighbourhood, this hotel is close to bars, bistros, and boutiques. It has a bright and airy atmosphere, and rooms are outfitted with contemporary amenities and fixtures.
Best Hotel in Williamsburg – Hotel Le Jolie
Colourful décor, spacious rooms, and an unbeatable location are just a few of the reasons we love Hotel Le Jolie. Located in Brooklyn, this hotel is well-connected to the rest of the city, close to landmarks, restaurants, bars and public transit. Each room has a refrigerator, a private bathroom, and entertainment amenities.
Best Airbnb in Williamsburg – Entire Garden Apartment in Williamsburg
Located on the 3rd floor of a newly renovated apartment in North Williamsburg Brooklyn. Here you have a sun-splashed terrace apartment. Create a gourmet dinner, ride a bike, and relax on the terrace.
Best Hostel in Williamsburg – NY Moore Hostel
NY Moore Hostel is the best place to stay in trendy Williamsburg. At the heart of this lively neighbourhood, this hostel is close to fun bars, art galleries, hip restaurants, and independent shops.
This bright and colourful hostel has comfortable rooms, private bathrooms, a relaxing common room, and an awesome outdoor courtyard.
Things to See and Do in Williamsburg
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Sink your teeth into a good old fashion hot dog at Crif Dogs.
- Dine on flavourful modern Thai fare at Amarin Café.
- Work up an appetite at the Black Flamingo, an exciting dance club that serves incredible late-night tacos.
- Sample a wide variety of delicious dumplings at the Vanessa Dumpling House.
- Walk across the Williamsburg Bridge and take in the outstanding view of Brooklyn and New York City.
- Enjoy cheap drinks and delicious pizza at the Alligator Lounge.
- Shop for trinkets and treasures at the Brooklyn Flea Market.
- Dance until dawn at Output, a renowned club with a vibrant and lively dancefloor.
5. Upper West Side – Where to Stay in New York City for Families
The Upper West Side is a classic New York neighbourhood. With its iconic architecture, tree-lined streets, and quintessential Brownstone townhomes, this is the New York that most people recognize from movies and TV.
The Upper West Side is our recommendation where to stay in New York City for families visiting.
Not only is the Upper West Side adjacent to the immense and expansive Central Park, but it is also home to world-famous cultural institutions like the American Museum of Natural History. Families with kids will love wandering through its exhibits, learning more about history, culture and the natural world.
In this neighbourhood, you’ll find family-friendly restaurants, attractions for all ages, and colourful candy stores – perfect for rewarding your little ones after a long day of New York sightseeing.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Best Hotel in Upper West Side – Hotel Newton
Located in Manhattan, Hotel Newton bursts with historic charm. Established in 1920, this fantastic three-star hotel boasts a variety of modern amenities, including a coffee bar and laundry service.
The rooms are comfortable, spacious and outfitted with wifi and a refrigerator. There’s also an on-site restaurant.
Best Hotel in Upper West Side – Belnord Hotel
Brimming with contemporary cool, Belnord Hotel is our best recommendation for where to stay on the Upper West Side. A short walk to NYC’s top attractions, this two-star hotel is surrounded by parks, restaurants, cafes and shops. Rooms feature modern décor and have private bathrooms, air-conditioning and free wifi access.
Best Airbnb in Upper West Side – Light and bright apartment
Just 100 paces from beautiful Central Park, this apartment is in a bright 6th-floor building with great light in a quiet neighbourhood. With a cosy kitchen, one bedroom and a sofabed, this is the perfect New York vacation rental for a small group. The building also has a washer and dryer too.
Best Hostel in Upper West Side – HI NYC Hostel
The HI NYC Hostel is conveniently located on the Upper West Side. It is well-connected throughout the city via the subway and a short walk to restaurants, parks, cafes, and landmarks.
HI NYC Hostel has an in-house theatre, billiards table, comfortable lounge, and recently renovated bathrooms. It also offers a laundry service and free wifi.
Things to See and Do in Upper West Side, New York
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Order a big salad or simply enjoy a cup of coffee at Tom’s Restaurant, a must-visit for Seinfeld fans.
- Dive deep into history, culture and the natural world at the incredible American Museum of Natural History.
- Take a virtual tour of the universe and beyond at the Hayden Planetarium.
- Enjoy five floors of fun at the Children’s Museum of Manhattan, where kids of all ages can experience interactive exhibitions and colourful displays.
- Indulge in sweet treats, cakes, and cookies at Levain Bakery.
- Pack a picnic and explore expansive and iconic Central Park, where you’ll find a pond, zoo, and plenty of walking paths.
- Dine on delicious and authentic Italian fare at Carmine’s Italian Restaurant.
FAQs about Finding a Place to Stay in New York
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of New York and where to stay.
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in New York
New York is one of the greatest cities in the world. It’s fast, fashionable, iconic, and fun. Whether you’re a history buff, culture fanatic, fashionista, dedicated foodie or first-time traveller, there’s something amazing for you in New York City.
Despite being a busy and bustling city, there are plenty of places to get a good night’s sleep in NYC.
To recap; Williamsburg is our top recommendation for the coolest neighbourhood in NYC. With its hip eateries and trendy bars, there’s always something going on in this central Brooklyn ‘hood.
Our top choice for the best hotel is the Freehand New York. Located in Midtown, this hotel is close to iconic sights, historic landmarks, and some of New York’s best restaurants and bars. You’re never far from the action when you stay at the Freehand New York.
Still not sure where to stay in New York City? Have we missed anything? Let us know in the comments below!
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
