Where to Stay in New York City: 5 Best Areas & Hotels

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Trying to figure out where to stay in New York City? We’ve got you covered!

The city offers endless options, and while that’s part of the magic, it can also make choosing your home base a little tricky. Each neighborhood offers something different—some are better for sightseeing, others for nightlife, and some are just perfect for soaking up that authentic NYC feel. The good news? There’s no wrong choice, as long as it suits your travel style.

We’ve explored the city from top to bottom and put together this guide to help you find the right fit. It includes the best neighborhoods to stay in New York, the pros and cons of each, and our top hotel picks to match your budget and style.

Where to Stay in NYC Map

Overview of the Best Areas To Stay in New York City

New York City is massive (no surprise there), and each borough has its own distinct vibe. Whether you’re drawn to Midtown’s buzz, NoMad’s style, the Village and Chelsea’s artsy flair, Lower Manhattan’s energy, or Williamsburg’s cool factor, where you stay depends on your preferences. Luckily, the city’s well-connected subway system makes it easy to get around—if you’re up for the adventure!

• Midtown Manhattan – Ideal for travelers wanting to stay near the action, this vibrant area puts you close to Broadway, Times Square, and Penn Station. Delta Hotels by Marriott New York Times Square offers sleek comfort, great amenities, and easy access to everything Midtown has to offer.

• Flatiron and North Madison Square (NoMad) – These trendy neighborhoods blend iconic architecture with great dining and shopping. Hampton Inn Madison Square Garden sits right on the edge, offering cozy rooms, daily breakfast, and easy transit access, making it a smart, pet-friendly choice for exploring Manhattan in comfort.

• The Village and Chelsea – For a mix of downtown cool and artistic flair, this area is hard to beat. Hyatt Place New York Chelsea offers modern comfort, skyline views, and a prime location near Penn Station and the High Line. It’s perfect for stylish stays without breaking the bank.

• Lower Manhattan – Rich with history and culture, this area puts you close to Chinatown, SoHo, and the Brooklyn Bridge. Walker Hotel Tribeca blends boutique charm with sleek design, offering a stylish, centrally located stay with easy subway access and a rooftop bar for city views.

• Brooklyn/Williamsburg – Creative and cool, this neighborhood is perfect for travelers who want local flavor and laid-back charm. Penny Williamsburg offers stylish studio-style rooms, a rooftop with skyline views, and a top-notch location, making it an excellent base for exploring.

Where to Stay in New York City

Midtown Manhattan

Midtown Manhattan is the beating heart of New York City, home to iconic landmarks and buzzing with nonstop energy. This central neighborhood is perfect for first-time visitors, architecture buffs, and anyone eager to take in the quintessential NYC skyline. 

The Empire State Building towers above Fifth Avenue, Grand Central’s celestial ceiling draws eyes upward, and the dazzling lights of Times Square are just steps away. Art lovers can stroll to the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), and Bryant Park offers a scenic spot to relax or enjoy a coffee from a nearby café.

Midtown is also ideal for shoppers, with flagship stores like Macy’s Herald Square and luxury boutiques along Fifth Avenue making it a fashion haven. Foodies will find everything from classic delis to fine dining, and business travelers benefit from its proximity to top hotels and transport hubs like Penn Station and the Port Authority. 

Pros

• Great location with easy access to transit
• Iconic sights like Times Square and the Empire State Building
• Excellent shopping and dining options

Cons

• Always crowded, especially near major landmarks
• High prices for hotels, food, and shops

Luxury – $$$

Residence Inn by Marriott New York Manhattan/Central Park combines luxury, location, and sky-high views into one unforgettable stay. Perched above the city on Broadway and 54th, the rooms here are sleek and modern, each featuring floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over Central Park, Times Square, or the Hudson River. We couldn’t stop staring out at the skyline! 

Each studio includes a well-equipped kitchenette, perfect for longer stays or heating up late-night snacks. The vibe is stylish but totally relaxed, and the breakfast is surprisingly delicious (and included!). Rates range from about $400 to $600 USD per night, which is a steal considering the prime location and incredible views. With the subway just steps away and Central Park around the corner, it’s the kind of place you’ll never want to leave.

Check prices and availability for your luxury stay here!

Mid-range – $$

Just a short walk from Penn Station and Times Square, Delta Hotels by Marriott New York Times Square offers a stylish and convenient stay in the heart of Manhattan’s Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood. Rooms are spacious and thoughtfully designed, featuring plush beds, large TVs, desks, and modern bathrooms. Guests rave about the hotel’s cleanliness, helpful staff, and daily perks like free coffee and pastries. 

An on-site restaurant, 24/7 fitness center, and private parking are also available. With rates ranging from $300–$400 USD per night, depending on room type and dates, this mid-range hotel offers solid value for its central location. Whether you’re in town for work or sightseeing, it’s an easy, comfortable base for exploring the city that never sleeps.

Explore rates and availability for our favorite Manhattan getaway here!

Budget – $

For budget-conscious travelers, Pod Times Square is a smart and affordable pick right in the heart of Manhattan. Just steps from Times Square and a short walk to the Port Authority subway station, it offers unbeatable access to Broadway theaters, restaurants, and NYC landmarks. Rooms are compact but cleverly designed, with modern furnishings, comfortable beds, free WiFi, and sleek private bathrooms. 

Despite the low rates, starting around $140 USD per night, the hotel doesn’t skimp on essentials, including a trendy on-site restaurant, 24-hour reception, and pet-friendly options. Guests consistently praise its cleanliness, helpful staff, and the value-for-money it delivers in such a central location. If you’re looking to experience Midtown Manhattan without blowing your travel budget, this is one of the best deals in town.

Find the best rates and availability for your budget-friendly stay here!

Related Read: Need some help planning your NYC trip? Check out our expert 3-day itinerary for an easy-to-follow guide full of the must-see spots, hidden gems, and insider tips!

Flatiron and NoMad

Flatiron and NoMad are two of Manhattan’s most vibrant and stylish neighborhoods, blending old New York charm with modern city energy. Anchored by the iconic Flatiron Building, one of the city’s most photographed landmarks, this area is ideal for architecture buffs, food lovers, and design enthusiasts. The Flatiron District draws crowds for its historic buildings and picturesque Madison Square Park, while NoMad (short for “North of Madison Square Park”) pulses with boutique hotels, rooftop bars, and a hip dining scene.

Flatiron and NoMad are a great match for travelers who love a mix of sightseeing and laid-back sophistication. The area is incredibly walkable, making it easy to pop between attractions like Eataly’s flagship location and the original Shake Shack in the park. Plus, you’re within walking distance of Union Square, the Gramercy Theatre, and Koreatown.

Pros

• Home to the iconic Flatiron Building and Madison Square Park
• Tons of great restaurants, cafés, and rooftop bars
• Easy subway access to other parts of Manhattan

Cons

• Fewer major tourist landmarks in the immediate area
• Hotels and dining can be on the pricier side

Luxury – $$$

The Evelyn NoMad is where vintage charm meets modern sophistication in the heart of Manhattan. We were instantly taken by the Art Nouveau-inspired design—think stained glass touches, cozy reading corners, and plush beds wrapped in luxe linens. The rooms may not be massive (this is NYC, after all), but they’re smartly laid out and impeccably styled.

Downstairs, the lobby feels like a stylish living room, and there are three on-site restaurants if you’re in the mood to stay in. But with the Flatiron Building, Empire State, and Madison Square Park just minutes away, you’ll want to explore. Deluxe rooms typically range from around $400–1,000+ USD per night, including breakfast.

Check the latest prices and availability for this luxury stay here!

Mid-range – $$

Hampton Inn Madison Square Garden is a great mid-range pick located right on the edge of Flatiron and NoMad, two of Manhattan’s most vibrant neighborhoods. With Penn Station just a few minutes away on foot and the 1, 2, 3 subway lines close by, you’ll be perfectly positioned to explore the rest of the city. The rooms are modern and comfortable, each featuring Hampton’s plush Cloud Nine beds—exactly what you want after walking the High Line or shopping on Fifth Avenue.

Breakfast is included daily (hello, waffles!), and free coffee and tea are available around the clock. We love the little outdoor patio for taking a breather, and the hotel’s pet-friendly policy means your four-legged travel buddy can come along too. Rates usually range from $400–$500 USD per night, depending on your room and cancellation terms.

Check current rates and availability for this stylish Flatiron stay here!

Budget – $

Best Western Premier Empire State Hotel proves you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for affordability in New York City. Nestled in the heart of NoMad, this hotel is just a five-minute walk from the Empire State Building and a short stroll from the Flatiron Building and Herald Square. Despite its wallet-friendly rates, the hotel delivers in both style and service. 

Rooms are sleek and modern with comfy beds, air conditioning, and extras like a fridge, coffee maker, and daily housekeeping. We especially appreciate the quieter atmosphere compared to bigger Midtown properties. Prices typically range from about $150–$350 USD per night, depending on the season and room type, making this stay a sweet spot of comfort and value.

Check the latest rates and availability for this NoMad favorite here!

The Village and Chelsea

The Village and Chelsea are two of Manhattan’s most character-rich neighborhoods, and when it comes to atmosphere, this is one of the best areas to stay in New York. We love this part of the city because it strikes the perfect balance—trendy yet laid-back, historic yet buzzing with new energy. It’s a great pick for travelers who want to explore the city beyond Times Square and get a taste of local life.

The Village (short for Greenwich Village) is known for its bohemian roots, leafy streets, and vibrant café culture. It’s a dream for artists, creatives, and anyone who loves discovering quirky boutiques, jazz clubs, and hole-in-the-wall eateries.

Just north, Chelsea brings an edgier art scene with its world-class galleries, the famous High Line park, and the Chelsea Market—a food lover’s haven. These neighborhoods are ideal for visitors who prioritize culture, nightlife, and food over being right next to the major landmarks.

Pros

• Bohemian vibe with local dining and nightlife
• Charming streets to explore
• More affordable than other desirable areas

Cons

• Can be noisy at night
• A bit further from major tourist attractions

Luxury – $$$

The Walker Hotel Greenwich Village is old-school Manhattan charm wrapped in luxury. With its art deco design, plush interiors, and cozy fireplaces, this boutique stay feels like stepping into a glamorous New York film set. We think it’s the ideal pick for a romantic getaway or a stylish city break.

The rooms are thoughtfully designed, with city views, marble bathrooms, and insanely comfy beds. There’s also an excellent on-site restaurant and a lively bar—perfect for winding down after a day in the Village. Best of all, the location is unbeatable: just steps from 14th Street station, with Chelsea Market, Washington Square Park, and the High Line all within walking distance. Rates typically range from $400–$800 USD per night.

Check prices and book Walker Hotel Greenwich Village here!

Mid-range – $$

Hyatt Place New York Chelsea is a fantastic mid-range option that ticks all the boxes—modern, spacious, and seriously well-located. We love it for its crisp interiors, skyline views, and generous extras (hello, included breakfast!), making it perfect for couples, families, or anyone wanting style without splurging.

Rooms here are bright and comfortable, with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer sweeping views of Manhattan. You’ll also have access to a 24-hour fitness center, a rooftop terrace, and a 24-hour snack market. The location couldn’t be more convenient: just a short walk to Penn Station, Chelsea Market, and the High Line. Prices usually range from $200–$500 USD per night, with breakfast included.

Find deals and book your stay at Hyatt Place New York Chelsea!

Budget – $

Chelsea Inn is a no-frills gem tucked inside a 19th-century brownstone, right on the edge of Greenwich Village and Chelsea. It’s a top pick for budget-conscious travelers who want to soak up the area’s creative energy and unbeatable location, without the hefty price tag.

The rooms are compact and cozy, with exposed brick walls and simple, functional furnishings. You can choose between private or shared bathrooms, which helps keep prices low. Best of all, you’re just minutes from Union Square, the 14th Street subway, and within easy walking distance of the High Line, Chelsea Market, and the jazz clubs of the Village. Rates typically start at around $200 USD per night.

View rooms and book your budget stay in the Chelsea District here!

Related Read: If you’re looking for some fun activities to do, check out our top 10 favorite things to do in New York here!

Lower Manhattan

Lower Manhattan is where New York City began, and you can still feel that historic energy in every corner. This part of the city is perfect for first-time visitors who want to stay near iconic landmarks, business travelers, or anyone drawn to a blend of old-world charm and sleek modernity.

While it’s best known for Wall Street and the Financial District, the neighborhood also has a more intimate side, with cobblestone streets, waterfront parks, and cozy cafés tucked between towering skyscrapers. It’s also one of the most walkable areas in the city, making it easy to soak up the sights at your own pace.

Some of the city’s most important sights are here, including the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, One World Trade Center, Battery Park, and the Staten Island Ferry. The area is extremely well-connected by subway, making it easy to explore the rest of the city from your home base downtown. And though the vibe is more fast-paced during the day, it tends to quiet down in the evenings, offering a more relaxed alternative to Midtown.

Pros

• Rich in historical and cultural attractions
• Excellent subway access
• Great waterfront views and parks

Cons

• Can feel very business-oriented
• Quiet at night, with fewer nightlife options nearby

Luxury – $$$

The Bowery Hotel oozes vintage charm with a downtown edge, making it one of Lower Manhattan’s most iconic luxury stays. Set at the crossroads of the East Village and Lower East Side, this hotel is perfect for design lovers, creatives, and anyone who appreciates a warm, lived-in kind of luxury.

Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, plush bedding, and marble bathrooms stocked with C.O. Bigelow products. There’s an excellent on-site Italian restaurant, 24-hour room service, and complimentary bike rentals for exploring the neighborhood. You’re also within walking distance of the New Museum, Bowery Ballroom, and Soho. Rates typically start around $620 USD per night.

Explore room options and book your stay at The Bowery Hotel here!

Mid-range – $$

Walker Hotel Tribeca is a stylish mid-range hotel that brings modern design and boutique charm to one of Lower Manhattan’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Set just steps from Chinatown and SoHo, it’s perfect for travelers who want a fashionable, comfortable base without splurging on high-end luxury.

The rooms are compact but beautifully appointed, with plush beds, oversized showers, and thoughtful touches like bathrobes and floor-to-ceiling windows in select rooms. The hotel also features a fitness center, rooftop bar, and an on-site café serving coffee from Blue Bottle. With the subway nearby and top sights like the 9/11 Memorial and the Brooklyn Bridge within walking distance, it’s easy to explore all corners of the city. Prices generally range from $300–$500 USD per night.

Explore availability here and lock in your stay at Walker Hotel Tribeca!

Budget – $

Hotel Mulberry is a great budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on space, cleanliness, or location. Tucked into a quieter stretch of Chinatown and just a few blocks from Little Italy, this no-fuss hotel is ideal for travelers who want solid comfort in a central spot without breaking the bank.

Rooms are bright, surprisingly spacious, and well-soundproofed—some even have private balconies with city views. You’ll get essentials like a mini fridge, free WiFi, and cozy handmade furniture, plus perks like complimentary coffee and friendly, attentive service. With subway access just a few minutes away, you’re well-connected to the Financial District, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the rest of downtown. Rates typically start around $260 USD per night, offering fantastic value for the area.

View room rates and book this budget-friendly stay here!

Brooklyn/Williamsburg

Brooklyn, especially Williamsburg, is the epicenter of New York’s indie spirit. Once an industrial neighborhood, Williamsburg has transformed into a hub of creativity, filled with local boutiques, rooftop bars, art galleries, and some of the best food in the city. It’s perfect for travelers who want a more laid-back, authentic NYC experience while still staying close to Manhattan.

This area is a magnet for artists, musicians, and food lovers, with a lively scene that’s constantly evolving. You’ll find vintage shops on Bedford Avenue, street art around every corner, and trendy restaurants serving everything from wood-fired pizza to vegan brunch.

The vibe here is youthful and eclectic, and the L train connects Williamsburg directly to Manhattan in under 10 minutes. Whether you’re into craft breweries, live music, or just want to stroll through a neighborhood packed with personality, Williamsburg is a great place to base yourself.

Pros

• Trendy food, art, and shopping scene
• Amazing skyline views and green spaces
• Easy subway access to Manhattan

Cons

• Can feel overly trendy and pricey
• Less central for traditional sightseeing

Luxury – $$$

For a luxurious Brooklyn stay with big-brand reliability, the New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge is a top pick. Located in Downtown Brooklyn just steps from the subway, it offers easy access to Manhattan while surrounding you with local sights like Brooklyn Heights, the Promenade, and the iconic bridge itself.

The rooms are spacious and modern, featuring plush bedding, mini fridges, and sleek bathrooms—many with city or river views. Guests can take advantage of the on-site spa, expansive fitness center, and a buzzing lobby bar that’s perfect for evening drinks. This is an excellent choice for couples, families, or business travelers looking for upscale comfort in a convenient, walkable neighborhood. Rates generally start around $420 USD per night.

Check availability and secure your luxury Brooklyn stay here!

Mid-range – $$

Penny Williamsburg is a standout mid-range hotel that perfectly matches the neighborhood’s artsy, laid-back vibe. With cozy studio-style rooms, a sleek modern design, and thoughtful touches like kitchenettes and pet-friendly policies, it’s ideal for couples or solo travelers who want stylish comfort without the luxury price tag.

Rooms feel like little apartments—bright, well-designed, and cleverly laid out to maximize space. You’ll also find a rooftop with killer views, a trendy Mexican restaurant on-site, and friendly staff who know the area inside and out. Located just steps from the Metropolitan Avenue subway, it’s easy to explore Brooklyn or hop over to Manhattan in minutes. Rates typically range around $250–$450 USD per night.

See current rates and plan your stay at Penny Williamsburg here!

Budget – $

42 Hotel Williamsburg offers a stylish, affordable stay just steps from the subway, making it a smart pick for travelers who want to stay in Brooklyn without overspending. This budget-friendly gem features modern rooms with comfortable beds, pristine bathrooms, and thoughtful extras like coffee machines and city views.

The interiors feel boutique without the high price tag, and the hotel includes a restaurant, bar, fitness center, and 24-hour front desk. Its location in South Williamsburg is ideal for those looking to explore local cafes and vintage shops, or easily hop over to Manhattan—the Hewes Street station is just a 2-minute walk away. Rates generally start around $230 USD per night, offering excellent value in a trendy neighborhood.

View room rates and reserve your Williamsburg stay here!

Other Activities to do While in New York City

Now that you have found the best area to stay and booked your preferred hotel, you can start planning your trip! Here are a few of our favorite things we did in NYC, although the list could go on and on! I recommend booking these activities early, as they often sell out weeks (or months) in advance.

• Take a food tour – New York has a world-renowned food scene. The question is, how can you try as much of it as possible? We took this famous Chelsea Market Food Tour, which is a historic market that boasts the best food in the city. We loved taking a food tour and found it to be a helpful way to experience the booming food culture and find spots we wanted to come back to!

• Visit the Empire State Building – As the most iconic building in the city, visiting the Empire State Building is a must-do! Not only is it impressive to see from a distance, but you catch the best views of NYC from the top. Grab tickets to the main observation deck on the 86th floor to beat the crowds!

• Go on a helicopter tour – Seeing New York from above is an experience most people only dream about. While this is a costly excursion, we can wholeheartedly say it is WORTH IT! This 15-minute Helicopter tour over NYC offers incredible views of the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, and the Brooklyn Bridge – just to name a few!

• Walk Central Park – Central Park is a quintessential New York stop and a giant outdoor haven right in the middle of the city. There’s a lot to see here, so I recommend a few hours to stroll along its historic paths or booking a tour of Central Park. There’s a walking tour if you’re keen on learning its history, or for the full NYC rom-com experience, book a horse and carriage ride!

• Experience a dinner cruise – For an upscale and elegant way to see the city, taking a dinner cruise is an amazing experience! Not only do you sail right past the Statue of Liberty and catch stunning views of the Brooklyn Bridge and the NYC skyline, but the whole experience feels luxurious. We took this Bateaux New York Premier Dinner Cruise and enjoyed a delicious dinner, live jazz music, and a beautiful evening cruising on the Hudson River. 

Renting a Car in the USA

The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.

We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in the USA

• Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
• Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
• Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
• Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.

What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

We spent so much time walking around and exploring while in New York City that we were so thankful to have a comfortable place to stay! Nothing gets you rested up for another day in the Big Apple like the perfect hotel, whether it’s a top-tier luxury stay or a budget-friendly option so you can spend your travel money doing fun activities.

Before you go, check out our other USA blogs to plan your trip! Here are a few related reads to get you started:

How to Spend THREE DAYS in New York City: 3-Day Itinerary

10 BEST Sightseeing Tours in New York City

5 BEST Observation Decks in NYC (+Our Personal Favorite!)