We list the best hotels, hostels, B&Bs and guesthouses in New York City as recommended by travel experts from CNN, Lonely Planet, Frommer’s, Fodor’s, New York Times and more. All hotel recommendations have been referenced with customer reviews and we only listed places with at least a 4 out of 5-star customer review rating.
Best cheap hotel in New York: The Duffy Times Square
Best boutique hotel in New York: Made Hotel
Best luxury hotel in New York: Baccarat Hotel
“Each of the rooms is individually designed, with fun patterns and colors, big warehouse style windows, and a cozy, residential feel. The location is smack in the heart of the action in SoHo.”
Featured as Fodor’s Choice in New York.
“The Lowell, on the Upper East Side, reopened in 2017 after a three-year renovation. Its 74 rooms got a refresh, but the important touches stayed the same: wood-burning fireplaces, grisaille wallpaper in the lobby, tasseled key fobs.”
Featured in CN Traveler’s 2020 Gold List.
“It’s like an English summer garden come to life in hotel form. A welcome addition to staid Midtown, it’s that rare find that is both family-friendly and sophisticated. A gorgeous hotel two blocks from Central Park.”
Featured in CN Traveler’s 2020 Gold List.
“In an era of the ever-more-exclusive members’ club luring the black-card-carrying wolf pack, Robert De Niro’s hotel makes privacy feel refreshingly effortless. It creates the sensation of stepping into the actor’s own salon.”
Featured in CN Traveler’s 2020 Gold List.
“Few things are as ‘New York’ as the 1 Hotel’s location at the base of the Brooklyn Bridge. Aside from that, it’s a thoughtfully designed, supremely attractive place to call home for as long you’re a guest here. Plus, it has one of the prettiest farm-to-table restaurants in all of Brooklyn: the Osprey.”
Featured in CN Traveler’s 2018 Hot List.
“Unabashed opulence is what you get as soon as you step into the lobby, there are about 15,000 pieces of the brand’s crystal throughout, including glassware and chandeliers. Arrangements of fresh red roses everywhere add a touch of color.”
Featured in CN Traveler’s 2020 Gold List.
“The trendy but affordable, limited-service hotel offers self-check-in at welcome kiosks in the art-filled double-height lobby staffed by friendly hosts. Fresh, funky and affordable, citizenM is a modern haven in touristy Times Square. Its D.I.Y. ethos, like picking your room art, offers efficiency with flair.”
“This hotel is totally worth the money and is a great deal for a Manhattan hotel. The rooms are high-end in all the right ways (great amenities, quality, linens, and covetable bathroom fixtures) but not at all over-the-top.”
Featured in CN Traveler’s 2018 Hot List.
“Lying right at the intersection of hip and elegant, The Bowery Hotel is appointed with luxurious old world refinements and décor while retaining a vibe that’s lively and modern. Factory windows offer 360-degrees of the city.”
“Though each suite has all the amenities that you’d find at home — kitchens, living spaces, work areas, and in some cases, private terraces — their shockingly bright color palette, quirky mid-century furniture and bold abstract art make it a stay you won’t soon forget.”
“For a Manhattan escape with pin-drop-quiet rooms and great views of the city, but also a welcoming, lived-in feel despite being part of a larger development, this is the place you want. A luxe yet lived-in feeling steps from Hudson Yards and Penn Station.”
Featured in CN Traveler’s Hotlist 2022.
“With its hat factory history, good location, upscale finish and an eager-to-please staff, the Refinery is a definite draw and is an ideal place for travelers who are looking to be near the city’s major tourist attractions. It lacked the polish of other well-established luxury properties in town, but that may improve over time, and its charm more than makes up for it.”
“The Ludlow is in the heart of the Lower East Side, one of the city’s most desirable areas for the hip and youthful set. The hotel wins high marks for its neighborhood feel and is a smart choice for travelers looking for an authentic sense of place away from the crowds.”
“Conceived by Andrew Zobler, developer of the nearby Ace Hotel, the NoMad is the Ace for grown-ups. The hotel stands out for its bohemian glamour, from the laser-sharp but friendly service to the opulent yet intimate interiors.”
“With its enviable location in a fashionable part of town, efficient and personable service and eye-catching design combined with its Starwood partnership, 11 Howard is a solid choice for both leisure and business travelers.”
“Better to book something that’s at least clean, comfortable, and strategically located, and spend the extra cash on that restaurant everyone has been posting about. Freehand takes this compromise and somehow manages to make it feel sexy and stylish. Rooms are basic but brightened up with artworks that sometimes snake across the walls and ceilings.”
Featured in CN Traveler’s Best New Hotels of 2019.
“The Andaz is a wonderfully chic haven from the bustle of Manhattan. Designed by David Rockwell with a comfy, loft sensibility, the rooms are larger-than-the-norm, with floor-to-ceiling windows that let in scads of light (but are soundproofed for serenity).”
Featured as Frommer’s Exceptional Choice in New York.
“Located atop one of the twin sentries comprising the Time Warner Center, the five-star Mandarin Oriental enjoys unobstructed views through its floor-to-ceiling windows of the Hudson River, Central Park and Brooklyn.”
“The Edge Hotel, on a leafy block of Washington Heights at 514 West 168 Street, is just steps away from the subway. A rare boutique hotel in the neighborhood, the modern 54-room property offers complimentary continental breakfast.”
Shortlisted in New York Times’ 36 Hours in New York City.
“During its bohemian heyday, scores of artists and writers stayed at the Marlton House, built in 1900 and beloved for its prime Greenwich Village location and cheap rates. The Marlton is a snug and affordable alternative to larger hotels, and it’s a must for anyone seeking to replicate downtown living.”
“One of the most coveted status symbols in NYC is a key to Gramercy Park. Stay here, though, and you can join the elite, in more ways than just park access. Few hotels in the city, or anywhere for that matter, are as truly luxurious or as riotously artistic.”
Featured as Frommer’s Exceptional Choice in New York.
“Very few NYC hotels deserve the high price tag they wear. This one just may. Its interior is as grand, though delightfully quirky, with rooms that look like they could have been inhabited by a Gatsby type in the 1920s.”
Featured as Frommer’s Exceptional Choice in New York.
“This 123-room hotel in Long Island City, Queens, draws its name from its previous life as a paper factory. A short trip from Midtown Manhattan, the Paper Factory offers an exceptionally friendly staff and a more sophisticated experience than other Queens properties.”
“Rooms at the Murray Hill location all feature private bathrooms, along with free Wi-Fi and an emphasis on communal space typified by the Pod 39’s rooftop lounge. The hotel’s perks are few but if you want hip and affordable, you won’t likely do better.”
“If aesthetics are a requisite, The Standard, High Line — situated directly above a stretch of old elevated railway now known as High Line Park — is a best of New York City landmark in Manhattan’s most model-intensive neighborhood.”
Recommended by:
Fodors, CNN, Lonely Planet, Frommers, Forbes, Telegraph
Recommended by:
CN Traveler, Forbes, Travel+Leisure
Recommended by:
CN Traveler, Forbes
Recommended by:
CN Traveler, Forbes
Recommended by:
CN Traveler, Telegraph
Recommended by:
CN Traveler, Forbes
Recommended by:
New York Times, Frommers, Telegraph
Recommended by:
CN Traveler, Telegraph
Recommended by:
CNN, New York Times, Lonely Planet, Fodors, Frommers
Recommended by:
CNN
Recommended by:
CN Traveler, Forbes
Recommended by:
New York Times, Fodors, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times, Lonely Planet, Fodors, Frommers, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times
Recommended by:
CN Traveler
Recommended by:
Frommers, Fodors, Telegraph
Recommended by:
CNN, Fodors, Forbes, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times
Recommended by:
New York Times, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Frommers, Lonely Planet, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Frommers, Fodors, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times
Recommended by:
CNN
Recommended by:
CNN, Fodors
New York or the New York State is the most populous city of U.S. It is at the core of the business, music, culinary and several other prominent industries of United States. It is the city of world-class hotels, elegant cafes, unique markets, tourist attractions, carnivals, festivals and so on.
Chelsea
Chelsea is quite a popular name. It is a busy locality with a lot of working-class crowd. The nightlife at Chelsea is absolutely vibrant and thrilling. There are several art galleries in this region. The area of Chelsea makes for the perfect tourists' abode.
East Village
The very vibe of this neighbourhood, will lend you an air of joy and freedom. A lot of college students dwell here. The Tomkins Square Park is the gathering spot for the residents of East Village. This place is full of lively bars, and restaurants with beautiful decors and interiors.
Hell’s Kitchen
As its name suggests, this locality is all about food. A few strides away from the Times Square, Hell's Kitchen is an excellent place for food lovers. There are several eateries and authentic diners. Thai, Italian and French cuisines are quite popular here. The Ninth Avenue, Restaurant Row and the Hudson River make this place even more charming.
Harlem
This is a pretty little historical place with schools and theatres. Harlem is absolutely New York at heart.
Nolita
Nolita is not a busy locality. It is more of a peaceful, warm residential setting. The Mulberry, Moth and Elizabeth streets of Nolita, are quite a sight.
Also check out our travel guide about the best areas to stay in New York City.
If you're looking for a cheap hotel in New York, then book The Duffy Times Square. It's an excellent budget hotel offering great value for money. It's in a good location, it's been recommended by travel experts and the hotel has excellent customer reviews. Also check out our list of the best cheap hotels in New York.
You like some luxury but don't like the famous chain hotels. If you're looking for the best boutique hotel in New York, you should check out Made Hotel. It's a very cool hotel that has been highly recommended by travelers and experts.
Also check out our list of the best boutique hotels in New York, it's a manually curated list of the most unique and romantic hotels in the city.
If money isn't a problem and you're looking for a luxury hotel in New York, then go for Baccarat Hotel. The hotel offers excellent service, it's in a top location, it has been rated very highly by previous guests and renowned travel critics have recommended it. Also check out our list of the best luxury hotels in New York City, it's a manually curated list of the most exclusive 5-star hotels in the city.
Looking for a great view while having a drink? Try Refinery Hotel Manhattan, Hotel CitizenM Times Square or Made Hotel, all have excellent rooftop bars with views of New York.
Looking for a good and affordable private room or cozy dorm in New York City? Check out The Local NYC. The hostel has been highly rated by backpackers. Also check out our list of the best hostels in New York City.
NYC is expensive, no news there. For a 3-star hotel you have to pay around $230 per night and for a 4-star hotel you would be looking at $320 per night. If you're after a luxury 5-star New York City hotel then you can expect to pay around $550 per night.
Try The Marlton Hotel if you're looking for a delicious breakfast at a hotel in New York City. It has excellent customer review ratings for breakfast.
If you're looking for a room with a view, then try 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge or Hotel The Standard High Line. Both offer amazing views of New York City according to recent customer reviews.
If you want to stay close to Times Square then try the Hotel CitizenM Times Square. It has excellent customer review ratings.
Empire State Building Skip-the-Line. Marvel at the 360-degree, unobstructed views from the Empire State Building and explore its Interactive Museum and more with this combo ticket. Price: $45.
60-Minute Cruise Around the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island. Get up close to one of the world's most famous monuments and the emblematic entrance to New York's harbor. Sail around the Statue of Liberty on a 60-minute sightseeing cruise that also journeys under the Brooklyn Bridge and over to Ellis Island. Price: $30.
New York in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour. Travel by both boat (seasonal) and bus as you swing by the 9/11 Memorial, Central Park, Rockefeller Center and more. Then hop aboard a luxury boat for a sightseeing cruise past the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, complete with stunning views of the world-famous skyline and Brooklyn Bridge. Price: $89.
More things to do in New York City
New York can be overwhelming. It’s expensive, busy, and stressful. But in all the craziness, it is also the city that never sleeps, a place where dreams come true, and the home of some of the most incredible sights you’ll see anywhere in the world. New York is one of those places that will forever remain etched in your memory as long as you live. It is a bucket list destination for many people, but visiting for the first time can be challenging. Reducing your anxiety about traveling to New York for the first time shouldn’t be hard; after all, it’s just another city! With these tips from our insider friend who lives there year-round, you’ll feel more prepared and confident before you even get on that plane to visit this wonderful city.
Don’t be afraid to walk
New Yorkers walk everywhere. They walk to work, they walk to shop, they walk to eat, and they walk to see friends. New Yorkers would prefer to walk than ride the subway at rush hour, so don’t let the subway scare you away from exploring on foot. You can walk many of the main tourist destinations in one day or two days, but walking will get you acquainted with the city. Forget about your hotel and the neighborhood you are in; forget about your group and how far away it is. Just start walking. You will see things that others don’t see because they are in a rush. You will feel like a real New Yorker.
Stay near the subway
No matter where you stay, you will be much more comfortable if you are near a subway station. There are many great neighborhoods in New York City, but you should stay near the subway if you want to be able to get around easily. You don’t want to be walking for hours or taking a taxi to get to your group and back. If you stay near the subway, you can get back to your hotel on time, and you will be able to explore all the neighborhoods in New York City without paying a fortune for a taxi.
Go to a museum for your first day
New York City has a huge variety of museums, and there are even more on the outskirts of the city. You can see a specific museum related to your field of work or just see a museum because it’s cool. Choosing a museum that is near your location is the best way to start your trip. Visiting a major museum will get you acquainted with the city, the people, and the history. Be sure to take notes and pictures of anything that grabs your attention. This will help you to remember more about your trip and will give you something to talk about when you return home.
Visit the Empire State Building and the Top of the Rock
If you have only two days in New York, you should visit the Empire State Building and the Top of the Rock. Each of these is a classic New York experience and can be accomplished in about eight hours. You will want to get there before the lines start forming so you can maximize your time. The Empire State Building is worth visiting at night, but the Top of the Rock is best in the morning when you can see the Empire State Building in the distance.
Check out the food scene
There are plenty of places to visit in New York City, but the food scene is one thing that can’t be missed. There are hundreds of great restaurants, and you will find something to fit every taste. You may even want to visit two or three different places in one night. You will find food from every culture in New York City, so you won’t want to miss out on tasting some of the best food in the world.
Take a walking tour of Lower Manhattan
You can take a walking tour of almost every major city in the world, but New York City is the only place where you can walk through the Financial District and see Ground Zero. Take the time to walk the path that the first responders took on September 11, 2001, and visit the September 11 Memorial and Museum to get an up-close look at what happened.
Plan ahead for your second day in New York
If you have one full day left in New York City, you will want to make the most of it. It can be hard to narrow down all the options, but you will want to make sure you visit Central Park and go to the top of the Rockefeller Center. If you have more than one day, don’t spend all of your time in Manhattan. There is much more to New York City than Manhattan, so don’t miss out on the other neighborhoods. Visit Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx to experience more of what New York City has to offer.
Conclusion
The city that never sleeps can be overwhelming, but these tips will help you navigate your way through New York City like a local. Don’t be afraid to walk, stay near the subway, visit a museum, see the Empire State Building and the Top of the Rock, check out the food scene, and take a walking tour of Lower Manhattan. Plan ahead for your second day in New York and you will have a trip of a lifetime.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or revisiting, we hope this guide helps you get the most out of your visit to the city. Please do read our guide about where to stay in New York, so you know which area best fits your travel needs.
If you like our list of hostels, B&Bs and hotels in New York, then you should also check out our selection of recommended hotels in Toronto or the best hotels in Boston.