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I might have spent an entire year living at Walt Disney World, but without a doubt, the most magical place I’ve ever visited was New York City.
I first experienced NYC at Christmas, with the city glowing in festive lights, ice rinks, and window displays. But what struck me most is that New York doesn’t rely on a season to feel alive. No matter when you visit, it’s busy, buzzing, and undeniably bucket-list worthy.
Truly living up to its nickname, New York is the city that never sleeps. But where you stay can completely change your experience, from quiet, tree-lined streets to stepping straight into the chaos of Times Square.
In this guide, I’ll break down the best areas to stay in New York City, based on budget, travel style, and the kind of trip you want to have, so you can pick the neighbourhood that suits you best.
Flying to NYC? Check for the best flights here.
Which Neighborhood to Stay In New York City
Where you stay really depends on the experience you’re after. Are you a foodie? A Broadway lover? Someone who wants to see the city like a local, or tick off all the classic tourist spots? Here’s a breakdown of the top neighborhoods.
Midtown Manhattan
Best For: First-time visitors, short stays, sightseeing
Why Stay: Central to major attractions, excellent subway connections, and walking distance to Broadway, Times Square, and Fifth Avenue.
Vibe: Busy, bright, fast-paced — classic NYC energy
Good to Know: Hotels are often smaller and pricier, but the convenience and the buzz of Midtown are unbeatable.
Hotels:
Deluxe – Virgin Hotels New York City
We stayed here and loved it. Sleek, tech-forward, and effortlessly cool, the rooms feel more like suites than standard hotel rooms. SMEG fridges, rooftop pool, multiple bars, and a spa make it feel modern and fun. Plus, it’s pet-friendly and even includes Richard Branson’s top-floor suite.
Other Deluxe Picks:
- The Plaza Hotel – Iconic NYC luxury with Central Park views and the legendary Palm Court afternoon tea.
- The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park – Classic elegance overlooking Central Park with refined service and a spa.
- Park Hyatt New York – Modern luxury with art-filled rooms and spacious suites near Central Park.
Mid-Value – Pod 39 & The Westin New York
Pod 39 is compact but stylish, with a rooftop terrace and a buzzing bar — perfect if you plan to spend most of your time exploring. The Westin is quieter yet still close to Times Square, with spacious rooms and reliable service.
Budget – The Jane Hotel, Hotel Edison, HI NYC Hostel
If you’re on a budget, The Jane offers tiny but charming cabins; Hotel Edison provides full-service convenience in Times Square, and HI NYC Hostel is clean, safe, and centrally located.
Flatiron District
Best For: Couples, repeat visitors, food lovers
Why Stay: Central but calmer than Midtown, with excellent dining, shopping, and subway access.
Vibe: Stylish, historic, slightly upscale
Good to Know: Hotels feel boutique and residential, making it a quieter alternative to Midtown.
Hotels:
Deluxe – The Fifth Avenue Hotel
Historic grandeur meets modern design. Spacious rooms and polished service, steps from Madison Square Park and the Flatiron Building.
Mid-Value – The New York EDITION
Minimalist but elegant, with a buzzing bar scene and great Flatiron location. Upper mid-range pricing compared to luxury Midtown hotels.
Budget – Hotel Hayden
Compact, modern, and clean rooms with some great Flatiron views — perfect for travellers who spend most of their time out exploring.
Uptown Manhattan: Upper East Side & Upper West Side
Best For: Families, couples, visitors wanting a quieter, residential experience
Why Stay: Ideal for museum-goers, shoppers, and those seeking a local vibe. Upper East Side is elegant and classic; Upper West Side is laid-back and family-friendly, with culture and food around every corner.
Vibe: Residential, relaxed, with tree-lined streets and brownstones
Good to Know: Not many nightlife options, but plenty of cozy cafés and restaurants. Perfect for longer stays.
Hotels:
Deluxe – The Mark, Upper East Side
Spacious suites, bespoke service, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. Iconic NYC luxury near Central Park.
Mid-Value – The Lucerne Hotel, Upper West Side
Classic NYC comfort with spacious rooms, friendly staff, and proximity to Lincoln Center and Central Park.
Budget – Broadway Hotel & Hostel, Upper West Side
Clean, compact rooms in a safe, central location. Ideal if you’re spending most of your time sightseeing.
Lower Manhattan: SoHo, Financial District, Lower East Side
Best For: Trend-seekers, business travellers, first-time visitors wanting a mix of sightseeing and nightlife
Why Stay: Central but slightly quieter than Midtown, with landmarks like One World Trade Center, Wall Street, and SoHo shopping.
Vibe: Buzzy, modern, creative — SoHo is artsy, Financial District is historic, Lower East Side is nightlife-focused
Good to Know: Hotels tend to be smaller but offer boutique charm; the area quiets down at night in some parts.
Hotels:
Deluxe – Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown
Spacious, elegant rooms with skyline views. Luxury in a quieter, central location near Wall Street and ferries to the Statue of Liberty.
Mid-Value – Club Quarters Hotel, Wall Street
Reliable, professional, and well-located. Comfortable rooms and full-service amenities without the luxury price tag.
Budget – Holiday Inn Express, Wall Street
Compact, clean, and central. Perfect if you’re sightseeing most of the time.
DUMBO (Brooklyn)
Best For: Couples, creatives, photographers, repeat visitors, travellers seeking scenic Manhattan views
Why Stay: Brooklyn’s most Instagrammable neighborhood with cobblestone streets, waterfront views, and easy access to Manhattan via the Brooklyn Bridge. Quieter than Manhattan but still close to the action.
Vibe: Stylish, artsy, boutique, relaxed
Good to Know: Small area — you can explore on foot. Hotels are limited, so book early for boutique or waterfront rooms.
Hotels:
Deluxe – 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
Eco-luxury rooms, stunning Manhattan views, rooftop bar. Boutique, modern design makes it a top pick in DUMBO.
Mid-Value – NU Hotel, Brooklyn
Modern and stylish, with comfortable rooms near Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO galleries and cafés.
Budget – Pod Brooklyn
Compact, efficient rooms with modern design. Ideal for central DUMBO/Brooklyn location without paying Manhattan prices.
Final Thoughts
There’s a New York stay to fit every traveller’s style, budget, and trip goals — from bustling Midtown skyscrapers to quiet, scenic Brooklyn streets. Wherever you choose, NYC delivers magic no matter the neighborhood.
