New York
New York City is America's premier cultural, financial, and media capital, situated where the Hudson River meets the Atlantic Ocean. Spanning five boroughs—Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island—it is iconic for its soaring skyline, Broadway theater, world-class museums, and 24-hour energy.
- Country
- United States
- Main airport (of 3)
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
- Time zone
- America/New York
- Tracked routes
- 11 inbound routes
Where to stay in New York
Midtown Manhattan is ideal for first-time visitors, placing you near Times Square, Broadway theaters, Grand Central, and Rockefeller Center. Lower Manhattan (SoHo, Tribeca, Financial District) appeals to travelers seeking historic cobblestone streets, boutique shopping, and 9/11 Memorial access. Greenwich Village and Chelsea offer brownstone charm and High Line park access. Williamsburg in Brooklyn provides skyline views and hipster dining.
Things to do in New York
Stroll through vast Central Park and row a boat on the lake. Marvel at the neon lights of Times Square and catch a Broadway musical. Admire 360-degree vistas from Summit One Vanderbilt, Empire State Building, or Edge. Walk across the historic Brooklyn Bridge. Explore world-class art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met) and MoMA. Take the Staten Island Ferry past the Statue of Liberty.
Getting around New York
NYC is served by John F. Kennedy (JFK), LaGuardia (LGA), and Newark Liberty (EWR). The JFK AirTrain connects to the NYC Subway (E, J, Z lines) or LIRR train at Jamaica Station. The MTA Subway runs 24/7. Passengers tap any contactless credit card or smartphone at turnstiles using the OMNY payment system.
When to visit New York
Autumn (September to November) and Spring (April to June) are ideal times to visit, featuring crisp, mild weather averaging 18°C to 22°C. The holiday season (late November to December) brings magical festive light displays, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, and window decorations. Summer (July to August) is hot and humid, while winter brings cold days and occasional snow.
Practical tips for New York
- Tap any contactless credit card or phone wallet at subway turnstiles via OMNY for automatic fare capping.
- The United States uses Type A and B electrical plugs operating at 120 V.
- Walk on the right side of sidewalks and pull to the side if stopping to check maps.
- Take the free Staten Island Ferry for fantastic views of the Statue of Liberty and harbour.
Popular hotels
Popular hotels in New York
Compare highly rated New York hotels from live Google Hotels data before choosing where to stay. Use the filters to scan central, airport, luxury, budget and family-friendly options for the city.
Getting to New York
3 airports
11 tracked routes
Flown by American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Kuwait Airways, Iberia and Air France and 9 more.
What are the top things to do in New York?
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FAQ
New York — frequently asked questions
Quick answers to the details travellers usually check first, from codes and locations to the practical basics that help with planning.
6 common questions
- Take the JFK AirTrain to Jamaica Station, then transfer to the LIRR train to Penn Station or Grand Central (20 mins), or take the MTA E subway line to Midtown (45 mins).
- OMNY allows you to tap any contactless credit card, debit card, or smartphone wallet directly at subway turnstiles and bus readers. After 12 paid rides in a week, remaining rides are free.
- Ride the free Staten Island Ferry departing every 15 to 30 minutes from Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan. The 25-minute scenic boat ride passes directly by the Statue of Liberty.
- The High Line is an elevated 1.45-mile public park built on a historic disused freight rail line on Manhattan's West Side, featuring gardens, art installations, and Hudson River views.
- Popular shows should be booked weeks or months ahead online. For discount same-day tickets, visit the TKTS booth in Times Square or Lincoln Center.
- Yes, the subway operates 24/7 and remains widely used. Stand in designated conductor boarding areas marked on platforms and ride in central carriages with other passengers late at night.