Where To Stay In New York City: Best Areas & Hotels

The Big Apple, the city that never sleeps, a concrete jungle where dreams are made off… Oh yes, New York City goes by many names and understandably so. It is huge, magical intense, thrilling and most of all ever-changing.

It is one of the most lively cities in the world and around every corner there seems something new to explore.

Although that is part of the allure of the city, as a visitor that can also feel slightly overwhelming and create a case of preemptive FOMO.

For any first-time visitor, there is a list of iconic sites that you’ll want to check off but also leave some time in your itinerary to go off the beaten block.

With this complete guide, you’ll be able to easily find your way around the city, whilst making sure you don’t miss any of the highlights.

Whether you’re planning a short trip or a longer stay, you’ll be able to navigate your vacation without missing a single thing and find out where to stay in New York.

Midtown – Most Central, Best for the First Visit to New York, Near Popular Attractions

There is no shortage of things to do in New York. If you are visiting for your first time, have limited days or are looking for an area packed with the most popular attractions then Midtown is where it’s at for you.

True, it is known as the business epi-centre of town and the cool kids will tell you to skip this neighbourhood because it is too touristy. But at the end of the day, Midtown is home to some of the most famous sights of the city, so there is no shame in staying around this area at all.

On the contrary, we believe you should visit it, even if only once as it is one of the best areas to stay in New York for the first time.

This is where you can check the big ones off your bucket list. Such as visiting Times Square and of course climbing the Empire State Building. If you are in town during the December months don’t miss out on spotting the huge Christmas tree at the Rockefeller Centre and skating on the ice rink.

You might feel like you are walking into a movie scene when you enter the Grand Central Terminal, which makes complete sense as it is one of the most famous film locations in the world.

Around 750,000 people travel through each day. However, there is an incredible phenomenon you can experience in this crowdy spot and that is hearing whispers across the crowds.

Press your ear to one of the arches at the intersection of the main floor and you’ll hear even the quietest whisper through the huge crowds.

Other must-visits in Midtown:

• The Museum of Modern Art
• Fifth Avenue
• New York Public Library
• Chrysler Building
• St. Patrick’s Catherdral
• Korea Town
• Carnegie Hall
• Paley Park
• The Museum of Sex
• Hidden Tropical Forrest inside of the Ford Foundation Building
• Tannen’s Magic Shop
• Studio 54 (yes that one)
• The most famous subway grate in the world… the one where Marilyn Monroe posed! On the Southwest corner of Lexington and 52nd street.
• Mood Fabrics. You know the one from Project Runway?
• The Ragtrader & Bo Peep Cocktail and Highball Store

Pros & Cons of Staying in Midtown

The pros here are pretty obvious. You can visit some of the most famous landmarks in the entire world and if you are only visiting New York for a couple of days you can see the most without having to run around the entire city. 

Don’t let the flashy neon-light fool you. It isn’t all big brands and chain restaurants, there are still many wonderful little restaurants, bars and shops.

The cons are also directly linked to the pros here. With all those famous attractions come a lot of tourists. We mean a lot. If you are looking for a unique experience you might have a hard time finding it here. You’ll have to keep your eyes peeled not to fall into the standard tourist traps.

Where to Stay In Midtown

If you wondering “Where should I stay in New York”, our first pick when staying in Midtown is The Arlo Hotel because of its excellent location. The rooms are simple yet stylish and feel nice and calm compared to the hustle and bustle of the city.

The CitizinM Hotel in New York is another great pick. All the sites are within walking distance and after a long day, you’ll happily kick off your trainers and relax in your room.

We love the rooms at The Scherman. It just feels so cosy and homely and if there wasn’t so much to do we’d happily stay in all day.

Want to stay in the heart of New York? Then you might want to opt for the city accommodations of Andaz 5th Avenue. These modern-chic places will have you feeling all the big city feels.

Where to stay in New York for the first time? The Rui Plaza is uncomplicated and comfortable. It offers all the amenities, including an on-sight gym. Just in case you won’t get your 10.000 steps in during the day… just kidding of course.

Upper East Side – Luxury, Shopping, Museums

Did someone say boujie, chic, or ultra-posh? Referred to by locals as the UES, the Upper East Side of town is where luxury meets fancy with a side of classy.

The Upper East Side is quite a large area and is broken down into three smaller neighbourhoods:

• Lenox Hill
• Carnegie Hill
• Yorkville

The gorgeous streets showcase one stunning mansion after the other and you’ll find plenty of charming parks, coffee shops and incredible museums.

Perhaps you’ve wanted to visit the UES ever since watching Gossip Girl or maybe you’ve never heard of the neighbourhood before – whatever the reason, it’s worth it. It will be one of New York’s best areas you can stay in.

Life moves at a slower pace on this side of Manhatten which is perfect if you want to escape the flashiness of Midtown.

You’ll find a different type of flashy here, as you gaze at the breathtaking mansions on Fifth Avenue with their Central Park views.

Looking for a little less uber-glamourous (read: affordable)? Closer to the East River you’ll find a more real-life experience where you can get a taste of what life is like for the mortals (locals).

If you want to soak up the art scene you are in the right area. Fifth Avenue is also known as the Museum Mile which houses a wealth of world-class museums and cultural institutions, such as the magnificent Metropolitan Museum of Art and of course the Guggenheim. Buy your tickets ahead of time and a real insider tip: make use of the free (!) audio guide tour for a whole different experience.

Take a break at LeVain Bakery for some mouth-watering baked goods.

With your sugar rush kicking in, make sure to add Albertine Bookstore to your stop-off list. Even if you are not book shopping take some time to explore this beautiful shop.

Other things to see and do in the Upper East Side of Manhatten:

• Cooper Hewitt Design Museum
• Neue Gallery
• Central Park and the Central Park Zoo
• Nothing says NYC like a cool speakeasy. Head to UES. It looks like a normal ice cream shop but if you ask for the storage room you’ll be taken to a secret bar with ice cream-themed cocktails
• In the mood for real ice cream? Try Van Leeuwen Ice Cream, they have some of the most interesting flavours and the best ice cream in town.
• Channel your inner Blair Waldorf and go shopping at the iconic Bloomingdales (or just window shop, as the prices on the tags here definitely scream UES)
• Roosevelt Island Tram
• Shopaholic in the house? Head to Madison Avenue
• Want a fun, but slightly different night out? At Hex & Co they have over a thousand different board games, some of which you’ll probably never heard of
• Venture towards 59E59 for an epic off-broadway experience and support the local art scene

Pros & Cons of Staying on the Upper East Side

The Upper East side is easily one of the safest neighbourhoods in Manhatten and the reason why many tourist love to travel to this part of the city.

Add the opulence, peaceful atmosphere and countless things to see and do and it is easy to understand why this is such a popular area.

The downside? It is pricey. With all that glitz and glam comes a certain price tag.

It is possible to find a more affordable side to one of the most expensive places in the world but just be prepared to do more research and not stop at any given cafe for your latte.

Where to Stay on the Upper East Side

The Upper East Side is one of the safest places to stay in New York, and has some of the best hotels too. If you are wondering where to stay in New York City on a budget you might want to opt for another area though.

The luxurious rooms of the famous Plaza Hotel will have you feeling like royalty.

Tired of walking the museum mile (or shopping) all day? Try out their delightful afternoon tea before heading to the space for a decadent pamper session. Truly one of the best places to stay in New York.

Another ultra-glitz option is of course The Pierre a Taj Hotel. In our mind, we never even left this place, as it is honestly one of the finest experiences we’ve ever had.

Calling all that enjoy the finer things in life! The Lowell Hotel has some of the most stunning rooms with actual marble bathrooms but besides that features wood-burning fireplaces and landscaped terraces with views of the city. We’re feeling the fantasy.

Where to stay in Manhattan you say? Well, voco The Franklin is classy and chic but the more affordable version of what Upper East has to offer.

The huge beds are super comfy and the perfect retreat after a night of wining and dining.

Upper West Side – Family, Calm and Quiet, Near Central Park

Another iconic neighbourhood that we have high on our adoration list and really one of the best neighbourhoods to stay in New York. Wandering around this area gives you a feel of the day-to-day life of the City.

As New York’s population grew around the 1800s so did the need for housing, and so the West Side grew into a stunning residential area with beautiful brownstones and many, many wonderful things to do.

When you are wandering around the streets on this side of town keep your eyes peeled because you might spot an original Banksy!

Right around the corner from this epic mural, you’ll find Zabar’s. A gourmet deli and grocer that is famous for its bagels with smoked fish. Honestly, it can’t get more New York City if you’ve tried.

With your belly full, head over towards Riverside Park and take a stroll along the Hudson River.

But the fun doesn’t end there. There is plenty to see and do:

• Visit the American Museum of Natural History
• Go to New York's first museum: the New York Historical Society
• Lincoln Centre
• Beacon Theatre
• Try some of the best Thai in town at Thai Market
• Can’t get enough of those bagels? Barney Greengrass will have your mouth watering
• The Cathedral of St. John the Divine

Pros & Cons of Staying in the Upper West Side

With its residential feel, it is perfect if you are looking to experience a calmer side of Manhattan. Stroll along the streets, sit down at a cafe and read a book or explore the lovely shops.

If you are looking for trendy, lively and happening the area might feel a bit to… slow for you. It is a neighbourhood with a lot of charm and is popular amongst families with kids. There is no lack of things to do but if you are looking for the face-paced city vibes you might want to head further downtown.

Where to Stay on the Upper West Side

If you want calm yet classy we highly recommend staying at The Beacon. It’s less than a kilometre away from Central Park, with a stunning rooftop terrace and equally stunning rooms.

Where to stay in new York City with a family you may ask. Well, The Wallace not only has some pretty magnificent city views but has wonderful rooms too.

Modern, chic, and comfy. What else could you ask for? Plenty of space and a calm vibe make it ideal for families to stay in too.

Another gem in the Upper West Side is The Arthouse Hotel. This century-old hotel features a 1920s elevator system and has original fireplaces. A mixture of modern meets classical.

The Lucerne Hotel has it all. A great location, lovely rooms, and a French restaurant that serves a mouthwatering weekend brunch. 

Soho & Lower East Side – Trendy, Art Galleries, Fashion, Celebrities

Hip bars, trending art galleries and a never-ending stream of pop-ups. Soho is one of the trendiest areas in New York and for good reasons.

It always seems to keep reinventing itself and although there are a lot of upscale shops, bars and restaurants even on a budget you can have a lot of fun here.

Of course, if you feel like spending your entire rent on a dress it is also very possible. For us personally, it is where we stay when visiting New York.

There is so much to see and do in Soho, here are just a few of the top things to do in Soho:

• Visit NY’s only LGBTQ+ museum
• Go to Lombardi’s, New York’s first pizza place!
• Have a cocktail at a swanky rooftop bar

Pros & Cons of Staying in the Soho and the Lower East Side

If you are looking for the next #trending pop-up, OOTD or influencer in the wild Soho is your area. The most amazing eateries, epic fashion moments and fancy cocktail bars all meet on one block, which is great if that is what you are looking for.

The downside is that with all of it comes a price tag, and Soho can be quite expensive. Besides that, this type of new, newer, newest vibe is not for everyone and you might be one of them.

Where to Stay in Soho and the Lower East Side

At just a five-minute walk from Little Italy and Washington Square Park, you’ll find the famous Mercer Hotel. The contemporary rooms come with real marble bathrooms and will have you feeling all types of fancy.

SIXTYS Soho is one of those places that just gets everything right. Views, comfort and class – an absolute joy to stay here.

We love the special decor of the Ludlow Hotel. The hardwood floors, handmade silk rugs and artisan-crafted Moroccan lamps featured in every room give this place a unique feel.

Want to feel like royalty? Check-in at the Bowery Hotel! The 400-thread count bedding already had us convinced we never wanted to leave but waking up to the city views with the floor-to-ceiling windows was the cherry on top. We live here now (well… we wish)

Chelsea & West Village – Best for Nightlife

As the name will tell you Chelsea and West Village are found on the west side of Manhattan.

If you are a foodie, you’ll love this ultra-fancy area as it is packed with quirky restaurants, fancy nightclubs and delicious spots to fill your tummy.

Besides all these fine establishments, fashionistas can eat their hearts out too, as there is no shortage of fancy boutiques and chic shops.

Some things that should be on your to-do list in this area:

• Visit Chelsea Market
• Walk along the Highline
• Macy’s Department store
• Chelsea Flea
• Madison Square Garden

Pros & Cons of Staying in Chelsea & West Village

The nightlife is thrilling and it is always buzzing in this area. For some that are what dreams are made of, as they want to hit the town every single night of the week.

If you are not looking to paint the town red, perhaps you just want to visit this side of town for a nice dinner or a day of strolling passed all the pretty shops.

Where to Stay in Chelsea and West Village

Oh yes, The Maritime Hotel is situated right across from Chelsea Market, so you can roll home after trying all the delicious eateries and food stalls.

The unique decor creates a unique experience if you decide to stay here. Besides that, it really is one of the best locations where you could stay in New York.

Dream Downtown could not have picked a better name for their hotel because it truly is… a dream downtown!

If you are looking for an upbeat and exotic dining experience you don’t even need to leave the premises as you can just book a table at Bodega Negra which you’ll find inside the hotel.

We want Moore! We want Moore! No honestly, we cannot get enough of The Moore in Chelsea.

This slick boutique hotel is one of our favourite places to stay when we are on this side of town and where to stay if you are in New York on somewhat of a budget.

Greenwich Village – Best for Couples, Charming

A relatively small yet incredibly charming area is Greenwich Village in New York. Filled to the brim with local theatres, jazz cafes, delicious restaurants, cosy bars and tree-lined streets.

The cosy cobblestones streets with the brownstone buildings give off such a relaxed vibe and it is an ideal place to visit for families or couples that are looking for a somewhat more low-key experience.

Don’t be fooled though as there is still enough to explore and places such as Bleecker street are filled with cool bars and restaurants.

If you are looking for a rather unique experience why not book a ghost tour? Yes, embark on this two-hour after-dark walking tour visiting the most spooky places in NYC and learning about the creepy past of the area.

Want something slightly less chilling? There is also a two-hour cupcake tour fulfilling every sweet tooth's dream by visiting the best bakeries in the area.

Some top things to do in Greenwich:

• Visit the Friends building and Carrie Bradshaw's apartment
• Bleecker Street
• Go to LGTBQ+ landmark the Stonewall In

Pros & Cons of Staying in Greenwich Village

Similar to other areas, it all depends on what you are looking for.

If you want glitz and glam you might want to head a little further downtown towards Chelsea for instance.

If you are looking for vast green spaces, snazzy cafes and cosy bars you are on the right side of town.

Where to Stay in Greenwich Village

Where to stay in NYC? The Gansevoort Meatpacking has everything and then some. Besides incredible rooms, a bar and a lounge they also have a year-round heated rooftop pool.

If you want to get a real feel for this charming neighbourhood we recommend The Walker Hotel. Boasting elegant 1920s-inspired decor and lush rooms, this is a true Greenwich Village gem.

How Many Days Do You Need in New York?

There is not one answer to the question of how many days you should visit the Big Apple.

New York is incredible, as any local is happy to tell you, but it is equally overwhelming too. You’ll have to accept it's impossible to see the entire city during one single visit.

An absolute minimum is three days. You’ll probably still be running around, sightseeing as much as humanly possible. Although it is doable, it will most likely leave you feeling a bit rushed.

So, that being said, if you have time we recommend you take your time.

This allows you to see some of the most famous landmarks in the world and get a feel for the many different neighbourhoods NYC has.

Each of them has such a unique and distinct ‘personality’ and just wandering around in one of them is an experience in itself that you don’t want to skip.

Add the hundreds of museums, thousands of stores and restaurants, and countless attractions and well you see the point – there is a lot to do.

By allowing a bit of space in your itinerary you might stumble across a lovely cafe or a swanky record shop that you’d otherwise have missed.

Assuming you like city life we’d recommend going for at least 5-7 days.

General Tips for Visiting New York City

Navigating this enormous city is rather easy because of its well-organised public transport and the easy-to-understand ‘grid’ of streets.

The first question most people have when it comes to visiting is ‘How expensive is New York City?

Truth be told, it isn’t cheap. A bit of a shocker is that one of the biggest expenses can be food. Most restaurants charge royally and on average you could easily spend $20-$30 on a plate of food. BUT don’t let that scare you off.

If you are travelling on a budget with a bit of research you can find plenty of cheap eats or… opt for that real NYC-style pizza slice. You’ll just have to be a bit more conscious of where you’ll fill up your belly.

Another plus is that there are many free activities, so you can save a few bucks there and splash on dinner or shopping after all.

There are a few basic rules we’d recommend you follow:

• Move around town with public transport. It is easy, cheap and fast.
• DO NOT rent a car. It will be time-consuming, expensive and most of all frustrating to try and navigate your way around town. Haul one of the yellow cabs instead and have a little movie moment.
• Use bank ATMs. Avoid identity theft or being skimmed. It’s worth just walking the extra block to the next ATM.
• Plan to see the big highlights but allow yourself time to explore too. You’ll stumble across the nicest cafes, museums and shops if you simply wander around.
• Avoid chain restaurants. We get it, it’s easy but with literally thousands of restaurants around it feels like such a shame opting for the big brands. Do however try one of the hotdog vendors that you find on essentially every street corner.
• Tipping is important. Depending on where you are from you might / might not be accustomed to tipping culture. In the US this is a big thing and waiters depend on it, so don’t be stingy!
• Catcalling is (unfortunately) a thing. Yep, even in today's day. We don’t approve of it but just be mentally prepared for it.
• Finding a bathroom might be difficult. There are not a lot of public bathrooms around and most restaurants won’t let you use theirs without consumption. So maybe plan lunch strategically.
• A lot of museums are donations based, or free on certain days.
• Lastly, download Google maps or Citymapper to find your way around!

New York City is one of the most exciting places on earth and never fails to impress.

There is not one single way how you should explore this city. Whether you are looking for charming cobblestone streets, the latest fashion trends, lowkey cool jazz cafes or the best pizza slice you’ve ever tried – there is something here for everyone.