Best places to stay in NEW YORK CITY

Planning a trip to NYC? We share the best places to stay in New York City, so you can choose where to stay in the city that never sleeps. 

There are plenty of reasons to visit New York City but finding the perfect hotel can be a challenge. We love staying near Times Square, whilst those looking for a more local vibe could stay in the Chelsea or Little Italy area.

Why visit NYC?

As far as bucket-list locations go, New York is usually positioned at the very top. And it’s not difficult to see why. This sprawling metropolis has been exciting and intriguing visitors from across the globe for decades thanks to its vibrant atmosphere, iconic buildings, breathtaking skyline, shopping and arts districts, flashing lights and high-flying business moguls. It’s the home of celebrities, Central Park, Times Square, Broadway and a myriad of experiences you simply can’t see or find anywhere else.

There really is no place like it, which is why (pre-Covid) New York would welcome over 66 million visitors across its 5 boroughs, The Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island every year. Many visitors would then explore the Upstate New York Towns for a different perspective of the state. But with so much to see and do, taste, hear and experience – if you wanted to visit the most famous city in the world, where should you stay?  

Finding a hotel in New York City

Finding the right place to stay in a city that boasts over 122,000 hotel rooms, is akin to finding a needle in a haystack. However, with the right knowledge, you can find a world-class hotel in NYC for less than you might think.

There are a variety of reasons why some hotels are simply better at providing a world-class visitor experience than others. And many of these efforts happen behind the scenes! Streamlined administrative tasks and modernised hotel management are ultimately reflected in the guest experience and this applies to hotels across the world.     

So, with this in mind, let’s take a closer look at some of the best hotels in New York City and what makes them so popular.

Where to stay in NYC?

Pod Times Square

Situated on 400 W 42^nd Street, the Hotel Pod Times Square is the perfect hotel for any traveller who wants to be central to all the lights, action and excitement of NYC but high enough to get some well-earned rest after a day of sightseeing. With central access to easy-to-navigate bus and subway routes, visitors can make the most of their trip and get to all local neighbourhoods and sights with ease. Plus, this hotel isn’t too far from the best Broadway shows in NYC.

Visitors can expect a great location, high standards of cleanliness, air conditioning in every room, a lively bar and guest lounge, 24-hour check-in and as the Pod Times Square is pet friendly, even 4-legged friends are welcome in this little corner of NYC.

Arlo Soho

 Head to 231 Hudson Street and you’ll find this charming and modern hotel. This is one of the best romantic hotels in NYC; is ideal for couples looking to explore the Big Apple together and enjoy some much-needed time together. The Arlo SoHo is only 2 miles away from the Empire State and Times Square, making it a great centralised hotel, ideal for tourists who want to cram as much excitement into their break as possible.

With high comfort and cleanliness as well as additional measures to protect guests from Covid-19, air conditioning, a rooftop terrace and bar for those romantic evenings and its very own nightclub and DJ, this friendly and modern hotel is certainly worth a look.

Hilton Garden Inn Times Square

 If you’re looking for a hotel that gives you the very best of everything then the Hilton Garden Inn Times Square, situated on 70 Eighth Avenue, is a strong contender. It’s the location that makes this hotel so popular with travellers, as its within reaching distance of Broadway, Central Park, the Rockefeller Centre, all main subway lines, the famous Restaurant Row with its delectable eats, vivid nightlife and club scene and plenty of sightseeing and shopping in between.

Guests can enjoy a fully-equipped fitness centre, family rooms and suites, 5* service and great value for money and all with complimentary internet access. Rooms are typically oversized, with travellers’ comfort in mind. Again, Covid-19 protection is prioritised here with industry-leading cleaning standards implemented to protect guests.

Pendry Manhattan West

Head on down to 438 W 33^rd Street, and you’ll find Pendry Manhattan West, rated “Excellent” on TripAdvisor and set in the heart of Manhattan, this beautiful hotel is surrounded by some of the best shopping and dining experiences available in New York, as well as aesthetically pleasing rooms designed by Gachot Studios, Pendry Manhattan West is ideal for those looking to add a little sophistication and relaxation to the hustle and bustle of the average NYC experience.

Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, such as a huge fitness centre and gym facilities including Peloton bikes and yoga rooms. A signature restaurant and stunning rooftop bar with glorious landmarks and city views across Manhattan, this really is a metropolitan jewel within the city.

LUMA Hotel Times Square

 The LUMA Hotel Times Square is a modern and innovative hotel nestled within the heart of Broadway. A stone’s throw away from dazzling stage shows, renowned fashion houses and within walking distance of some of the city’s top attractions and hidden gems, visitors will be able to make the most of their whirlwind trip to the Big Apple, without spending too much time travelling from landmark to landmark.

Rated 4.5 on TripAdvisor, the location alone is a huge plus for travellers, with gorgeous and modern amenities like a spa, fitness centre, welcoming bar and guest lounge as well as floor-to-ceiling windows in the rooms that will take your breath away.

If you’re planning a trip to NYC, make sure you take plenty of time to research and plan your accommodation. While you might just be looking for somewhere to rest your legs after a long day of sightseeing, the right hotel can enhance your experience in the Big Apple and make it a truly unforgettable trip.