As you probably know, on EuroCheapo we keep a full list of cheap hotels in New York. But we thought we help simplify your research for you a bit, so we explored the most popular neighborhoods in Manhattan (and one in Brooklyn!) to find the very best deals in town.

From charming guesthouses to chic hotels with rooftop patios, the New York hotel scene can fall within your budget — if you know where to look.

More tips for NYC
• The full list of cheap hotels in NYC
• Cheapo Guide: Visiting New York on a budget
• How to save on New York City hotels
• 10 easy ways to save on your trip to New York 

The best budget hotels in New York City

We combed through our New York listings to find hotels that offer excellent locations, high ratings from guests, and most importantly, affordable rates. Each also has a little extra something that pushes them to the top. Book in advance to save even more!

HI NYC Hostel

Neighborhood: Upper West Side
Rates from $75

One of the largest hostels in North America, Hostelling International New York is located in a gorgeous building just a few blocks from Central Park on the Upper West Side. If you want to stay in a classic New York neighborhood, it’s hard to beat the location. There are laundry facilities, a kitchen, a TV lounge, and a nice little cafe. When you need a break from the affordable dorm rooms, you can hang out on Manhattan’s largest private outdoor patio.

Read the full review

Join us in swooning over the shared spaces at Pod 39.

Pod 39

Neighborhood: Midtown E-Murray Hill
Rates from $80

With bright, boutique-style rooms and swoon-worthy common spaces, there’s a lot to love about the cheapo-friendly Pod 39 hotel. Just keep in mind that the rooms are called pods for a reason — they can really be a squeeze. Still, the hotel offers an excellent location and plenty of perks. This isn’t the only “pod” hotel on our list of the best budget hotels in New York City, either. Continue on to learn more about another cheapo favorite, Pod 51.
Read the full review

NY Moore Hostel is a welcoming stay just minutes from Manhattan.

NY Moore Hostel

Neighborhood: Williamsburg and Greenpoint
Rates from $90 for a private room; $40 for a dorm bed

Located in a trendy section of Brooklyn, the NY Moore Hostel will wow with win your over with friendly staff and low prices. The cheapest option is sleeping in a dorm but there are three triple rooms with private bathrooms that make an excellent option for families or groups. When you want to relax you can play a game of pool or get some fresh air in the courtyard. Cheapos will be very happy with the fully equipped kitchen where you can make a meal. The subway is only a five-minute walk from the hostel and you can be in Union Square in under 20 minutes.

Read the full review

Pod 51

Neighborhood: Midtown East
Rates from $99 for a single private room

Sure, the rooms — we mean “pods” — are small, but where else can you find boutique-style quality for such a low price this close to the heart of Manhattan? From the comfy beds and free Wi-Fi to the rooftop patio, Pod 51 is everything we love in a New York hotel. Prices spike during the high season but great deals can be found in the winter.
Read the full review

Relax in the clubby lobby of The Jane Hotel.

The Jane Hotel

Neighborhood: Greenwich Village
Rates from $109

Have you ever dreamed of living in the West Village? Spend a few days in this charming neighborhood when you book a room at The Jane Hotel. The cheapest rooms feel like snazzy cruise ship pods with bathrooms down the hall. Upgrade to a “Captain’s Cabin” for a little more space and your own bathroom. Ask for one of the free bicycle rentals to ride along the scenic Hudson Greenway right across the street.
Read the full review

You’ll find plenty of interesting and quirky decor pieces during a stay at Carlton Arms Hotel.

Carlton Arms Hotel

Neighborhood: Union Square-Gramercy
Rates from $121

With artistic rooms and a historic building, there’s a lot of quirk and charm at the two-star Carlton Arms Hotel located in Gramercy. Enjoy the eclectic style and cheapo rates, plus you’ll find budget-friendly restaurants and plenty of pubs nearby. Madison Square Park and Flatiron Building are easy to walk to as well.

Read the full review

It’s hard to find a more charming room than those on offer at Harlem Flophouse.

Harlem Flophouse

Neighborhood: Upper West Side & Harlem
Rates from $154

We can’t get enough of the charming rooms in the Harlem Flophouse, a hotel in a beautiful brownstone in Harlem. Rooms take on the names of Duke Ellington, Thelonious Monk, Chester Himes, Corky Hale or Nat King Cole and sport decor from all over the world. Gorgeous and ornate fireplaces add to the ambiance. There’s an extra special touch we appreciate: the Harlem Flophouse publishes its own neighborhood guide, so guests can live like locals.

Read the full review

It’s easy to love the location of Leo House on 23rd Street.

Leo House

Neighborhood: Chelsea
Rates from $159

Looking for something different than your average chain hotel? Leo House fits the bill with simple but clean rooms in an amazing location in the heart of Chelsea. Since it’s run by a Catholic non-profit organization, you can expect crosses and religious decor throughout the building. Rooms come with Wi-Fi and your choice of a shared or private bathroom. Enjoy a break from the city in the peaceful garden or the on-site chapel.
Read the full review

Photo credits: Booking.com

More budget New York hotel options

Looking for even more deals on a hotel in the Big Apple? Search all of our listings for budget hotels in New York.

The post The best budget hotels in New York for 2024 appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

From the bustling crowds and bright lights during the holidays to a crisp autumn stroll through Central Park, New York has something to offer no matter what time of year you come.

That said, it’s still important for budget travelers to think about timing before you lock down the dates on your calendar.

Visiting New York on a budget:

• 10 Easy ways to save on your trip to the Big Apple
• Best cheap eats near Times Square
• 10 Best cheap hotels in New York City

When is the best time to visit New York?

We’ve written about what’s the best neighborhood in New York for your trip and how to save on your NYC hotel. Now it’s time to talk about timing!

We take a look at all four seasons to present the pros and cons of each, so you can help decide what might be the best season for you. We even provide a few hotel recommendations along the way to make the most of your New York City visit.

Summer: Hot temperatures and free events

Summer in New York City can be a bit of a challenge depending on your tolerance of prices and humidity. Hotel rates can soar as high as the temperatures as millions of visitors come to the Big Apple on their summer vacation. However, it’s a wonderful time of year to get out on the water to see the Statue of Liberty from Battery Park or sit on the top level of a double-decker bus tour. Many locals also head out of the city, so sometimes neighborhoods can feel quieter than normal.

One of the best reasons for budget travelers to come during summer is all of the free events. Almost every night of the week, you can find concerts, movie screenings, and festivals taking place in all five boroughs. The summer kicks off with the Pride Parade and the fun doesn’t let up until Labor Day with the West Indian Day Parade. You can catch a free concert at Summerstage or show at Shakespeare in the Park. Head to the waterfront to watch a fabulous fireworks show on July 4th.

Related: 6 Under-the-radar (and free) parks to explore in New York City

NYC hotel picks for summer: The Ridge Hotel and HI NYC Hostel

Fall: Perfect weather

As much as we love summer, fall is when New York hits its peak. Much like the brilliant foliage in Central Park, this time of year is a sight to behold. The theater and music scene really heats up (especially around Times Square and the Theater District) with a new crop of Broadway shows, museum exhibits, and concerts. And then there’s the weather. With the humidity of summer giving way to comfortable temperatures (think jeans and a sweater), you won’t have to worry about walking around drenched in sweat. If you can find a good hotel price in September or October, book it right away!

Plus, you’ll be around for fun city traditions like the NYC Marathon, the Greenwich Village Halloween Parade, and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

NYC hotel picks for fall: Carlton Arms Hotel and Leo House

Washington Square Park after a snow storm. Photo: Craig Nelson

Winter: Colder but cheaper

Brrrrr… don’t even think about visiting New York in the winter unless you don’t mind wearing a puffy jacket most of the time. On the plus side, Cheapos may want to come in January or February when prices at hotels are at their lowest. Hotels that might cost $250 in the peak season can fall to $100 or less. And with fewer visitors, the streets and attractions are a lot quieter. If you get cold, there are many cozy places to hunker down for a great meal or a warm drink, like at these Irish pubs.

The weeks leading up to Christmas and New Year’s are extremely popular, but for good reason, because the lights and energy of the city are hard to resist. If you can score a deal on a hotel room, you can brave the crowds to see the Rockefeller Center tree and famous holiday windows along Fifth Avenue for an unforgettable holiday experience.

NYC hotel picks for winter: Chelsea Inn and Pod 39

The High Line in the spring. Photo: Paul

Spring: Early bird catches the worm

Watching New Yorkers emerge from their winter cocoons is a highlight of the spring season. At the first sign of warm weather, people head to lovely green spaces like Washington Square Park or grab a table at an outdoor cafe to soak in the sun. The weather can be unpredictable — cold and rainy one day and beautiful the next — so just come prepared with an umbrella in hand.

Seeing the greenery starting to bloom on The High Line is a lovely way to spend an afternoon. Head to the Bronx for the Yankees or Queens for the Mets to catch an early season baseball game when tickets are easier to get (and cheaper). Finding a good price on a hotel is easier in early spring before rates start creeping up as May and June approaches.

NYC Hotel picks for spring: The Jane Hotel and Pod 51 Hotel

Dates to watch out for

Before you start planning your trip, make sure you are aware that there are certain times of year when it is almost impossible to find a good deal on a hotel. The holiday season is always busy and expensive in New York, especially on New Year’s Eve. But we have found decent prices for hotels over Thanksgiving and Christmas in the past. You should also keep an eye on the calendar for big events like Tribeca Film Festival, NY Fashion Week, and the US Open when rates can go through the roof. Check the NYC Official Guide website for a list of all annual events.

When do you love to visit New York City?

If you have a specific strategy to save money or just love visiting during a certain season, share your thoughts and ideas in the comments below.

The post The best time to visit New York City on a budget appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Before you get your tickets, just note that vaccinations and masks will be required for all audience members (read more on Broadway.org).

Once you picked out the shows that you want to catch, we can help you find cheap hotels near Broadway theaters in New York City.

Related:
• 6 Clean and central hotels in New York city for under $100
• 5 Super cheap hotels in Manhattan
• 7 ways to save on Broadway tickets

Our favorite cheap hotels near Broadway theaters

We’ve come up with four hotel options all located just steps from the bright lights and action of Times Square and the Theater District. In fact, our cheapest picks offer a night’s rest for much less than the price of an average Broadway ticket. These rates start under $125 per night for a double room, and during the offseason, you can find rooms for $99 and up.

Now, on with the show!

A sleek and small room at Yotel Times Square.

Yotel Times Square

Rooms start at $226
Tenth Avenue (between W. 41st and 42nd Streets)
Close to: Majestic Theatre, Richard Rodgers Theatre, John Golden Theatre, Broadhurst Theatre

Located along iconic 42nd Street just west of Times Square, this popular hotel offers up modern style at a good price. The rooms are small but modern with slick white furnishings and lots of tech amenities like smart TVs, very fast Wi-Fi, and rain showers. Some rooms also offer vibrant views over the city.

Read the full review.

The lovely lobby of St. James Hotel is just off of Times Square.

Hotel St. James

W. 45th Street (Between 6th and 7th Avenues)
Rooms from $200
Close to: Lyceum Theatre, Palace Theatre, Belasco Theatre

This two-star spot is a rare breed in New York City — a family-run hotel with reasonable rates for this part of town. As one of the best deals near Times Square, guests shouldn’t expect luxury. But the simple rooms and sparkling clean bathrooms are well worth the price. The sitting lounge in the back of the hotel is a nice place to flip through your guidebook before heading out for the day.

Read the full review.

Kasa the Duffy Times Square

W. 46th Street (Between 9th and 10th Avenues)
Rooms from $217
Close to: Walter Kerr Theatre, Music Box Theatre, Shubert Theatre, Gershwin Theatre

Tucked away on a nice-looking street not far from Time’s Square, this boutique hotel offers stylish rooms in a historic townhouse. Without a check-in desk (they send you an entry code), the experience is more like staying in your very own New York apartment. Walk out your door and you can explore the exciting streets of Hell’s Kitchen.

Read the full review.

A renovated room at the Hotel Edison puts you just steps from your Broadway show!

Hotel Edison

W. 47th Street (Between Broadway and 8th Avenues)
Rooms from $240
Close to: Brooks Atkinson Theatre, Barrymore Theatre, Longacre Theatre, Richard Rodgers Theatre

Smack dab in the heart of the Theater District, this three-star hotel has been hosting Broadway fans since 1931. The hotel underwent a complete renovation in recent years that resulted in sleek rooms that kept the Art Deco charm but raised the prices. The C.O. Bigelow bath amenities add a touch of New York history and the on-site bar, The Rum House, is a fun spot with live jazz music.

Read the full review.

Photo credits: Booking.com.

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The post New York City: Cheap hotels near Broadway theaters appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

And for some curious reason, tourists visiting one of the world’s great culinary destinations seem content packing into the same old mediocre chain restaurants they find back home. Applebee’s and Olive Garden in Times Square have become a punchline to locals.

But thankfully, things are changing. Some interesting and affordable tastes are slowly pushing their way into the Theater District, the region focused around Times Square and bounded east to west by Sixth and Eighth avenues (roughly) and north to south by 57th to 40th streets.

More tips for visiting NYC on the cheap:
• How to save on hotels in New York City
• The ultimate cheapo guide for visiting New York
• Cheap hotels in Times Square and the Theater District

How to eat in Times Square on a budget

So if you’ve already scored affordable tickets to a Broadway show, where can you eat for cheap? It all depends on what you’re looking for. Here are a few suggestions for cheap eats in Times Square.

Mmmmm… burgers, fries, and more burgers at Shake Shack. Photo: Shinya Suzuki on Flickr

Burgers: Shake Shack

Renowned restaurateur, Danny Meyer, transformed a hot dog cart into the first Shake Shack a few blocks downtown at Madison Square Park and never looked back. Though it evolved into a chain with more than 250 locations around the world (and counting), this is one of the pioneering locations. And it’s as good as ever.

For the record, I’m particularly fond of Shake Shack. It’s not unusual to find me huddled over a ShackBurger, fries and house-made lemonade for breakfast at that original location, which opens earlier than the Theater District Shack. Though their crispy chicken sandwiches and hot dogs receive acclaim, Shake Shack is all about burgers and their signature beef blend. The crinkle-cut fries may sound pedestrian, but they’re prepared perfectly. The lemonade is fresh and tart.

Shake Shack has a fair number of seats, but the lines get really long, winding through a short maze indoors before spilling onto Eighth Avenue. Things move fairly quickly, but that only means you’ll playing musical chairs to grab a table unless you arrive soon after opening or during a rare lull during the day.

And here’s a quick tip: Shake Shack concretes — frozen custard mixed with cookies or candy — are great, too. And if all you want are frozen custard, beverages, beer or wine, you can jump into the shorter “C–Line” for quicker service.

Shake Shack
691 Eighth Ave. (at 44th St.)
shakeshack.com

Spice up your cheap dinner with hand-ripped noodles from Xi’an Famous. Photo: Jason Lam on Flickr

Chinese: Xi’an Famous Foods

You can find a great burger in most cities, but not fresh, handmade noodles. And that’s what draws New Yorkers to Xi’an Famous Foods. From its initial, hole-in-the-wall location in the basement of a Queens shopping mall, Xi’an’s fiery noodles leaped across the river to Manhattan’s Chinatown and then engulfed the entire island.

Head to one of the two nearby locations for “hand-ripped” noodles served in dishes and soups with combinations of vegetables and meats. There’s also a selection of dumplings and what Xi’an calls “burgers” — shredded meat on a bun.

What you want is the Spicy Cumin Lamb Noodles — or, if you’ve got to eat and walk, the Spicy Cumin Lamb Burger. (Xi’an warns that noodles are made to be eaten quickly, right out of the kitchen.) But if lamb isn’t on your agenda, the Liang Pi Cold Skin Noodles, Stewed Pork Burger, and Spicy and Tingly Beef Noodles round out their top five sellers.

Now for some tips: Since the family-owned and operated restaurants are surrounded by towering office buildings, they all get slammed during the lunch and dinner rushes. Your wait will be shorter if you can visit between 2 and 6 pm or on weekends. Also, spicy means spicy. Xi’an Famous Foods draws its name and family recipes from a city in northwestern China known for dishes kindled with cumin, chili, and peppercorns, and this is the real deal. But everything is made to order; so, if you want a milder version, just ask.

Xi’an Famous Foods
37 West 43rd St. (between 5th and 6th Ave.)
37 West 54th St. (between 5th and 6th Ave.)
xianfoods.com

Gray’s Papaya on 8th Avenue is always ready to serve you a hot dog. Photo: David

Hot Dogs: Gray’s Papaya

New Yorkers are busy. And, so it appears, always running late. Which makes hot dogs the perfect, cheapo food: a portable meal you can eat on the run, and one you can find everywhere.

Let’s start by debunking one myth: Food carts are not the dicey proposition many visitors believe. In fact, they’re a staple for many locals and some even serve gourmet specialties. So, you’re rarely more than a block away from a credible New York dog.

But there are a few legendary versions, and one of them is Gray’s Papaya. What sets it apart? It’s always open. It’s very good. And it’s cheap. In fact, Gray’s Papaya is famous for its “Recession Special,” two hot dogs and a medium drink for about six bucks. In Midtown Manhattan, you can’t do better than that.

It’s called Gray’s Papaya because papaya is one of their featured, non-alcoholic tropical beverages, but maybe not the best. I prefer piña colada, though they also serve coconut and banana — along with pineapple juice, soda, coffee, tea and hot chocolate.

Gray’s Papaya
612 8th Ave. (between 39th and 40th St.)
grayspapaya.nyc

Middle Eastern: The Halal Guys

One example of the upscale food cart trend is The Halal Guys, which began as a single cart in the Theater District and rode demand from Muslim taxi drivers to become an international restaurant phenomenon. Their original offering is also their most popular — a combo platter of chicken and beef gyro over rice. They serve both types of meat and a pretty good falafel in platters and as sandwiches on pita, with a choice of toppings.

Then there are the sauces. Unless you enjoy playing with fire, ease into the hot sauce, which registers 115,000 on the Scoville spicy-heat scale. (Most jalapeños come in well under 10,000.) And their tangy white sauce is so popular it has its own following.

With plenty of hardcore fans in a busy section of the city, the carts along 53rd Street are not hard to find: Just look for a long line of New Yorkers from every ethnicity, background, and culture. But don’t be scared off by the crowd. Hop right in and meet some new friends. Things move pretty quickly.

The Halal Guys
West 53rd St. and 6th Ave.
West 53rd St. and 7th Ave.
thehalalguys.com

Latin American: Empanada Mama

Granted, this cheapo favorite is officially in Hell’s Kitchen, a block beyond the Theater District’s official boundaries, but this small gem is close to some Broadway venues and worth the short walk.

Touting “big flavors in small packages,” Empanada Mama features, well, empanadas — stuffed pastries, most fried, some baked, that are staples in many Latin American regions. There are about 40 empanadas on the main menu, under $4 each, with both traditional and not-so-traditional tastes.

In the mood for something traditional? Try Brasil, with ground beef, olives, sautéed onion, and potato, or Desayuno Colombiano, with Colombian pork sausage, cheddar cheese, eggs and Spanish onion. Prefer fusion? Consider El Ruben, with shredded beef, sauerkraut, Russian dressing and Swiss cheese, or Pepperoni Pizza, with pepperoni, tomato sauce, and cheese. The variety is impressive and spills over to a small dessert menu with empanadas stuffed with fruit, cheese, and chocolate.

Like many New York restaurants, Empanada Mama has a compact — no, make that tiny — dining room, so be ready to wait if you arrive at prime time.

Empanada Mama
765 Ninth Ave. (between 51st and 52nd St.)
empmamanyc.com

Grab a slice before a show at NY Pizza Suprema. Photo: Jeff on Flickr

Pizza: Here’s Where It Gets Tricky

Pizza is the iconic NYC cheap eat. And there’s no shortage of storefronts peddling crust topped with tomato sauce and cheese. You can probably find one of those on every block. Maybe two. Or three.

What you won’t find in the Theater District is the kind of great slice joints scattered in neighborhoods around the city. Why? I dunno. Send me your theories. But I suspect it has to do with rents and that whole “tourists-content-at-Olive Garden” thing.

If you want pizza immediately before or after a show, your best bet is John’s of Times Square, a notable restaurant preparing traditional New York pies (no slices) in an 800-degree, coal-fired oven — along with a full menu of pasta, sandwiches, and dessert. But it may be known better for its setting in an abandoned church, complete with a stunning stained glass ceiling, which, to be honest, is pretty cool.

But I prefer to venture nine blocks outside the Theater District to NY Pizza Suprema, praised by many and rated by the “Slice Harvester” website as New York City’s best slice. Their regular cheese pizza is memorable. So are the Margherita and white slices. My advice? Go with whatever looks good — it will be — but be ready to order when it’s your turn and keep things moving.

John’s of Times Square
260 West 44th St. (between 7th and 8th Ave.)
johnspizzerianyc.com

NY Pizza Suprema
413 8th Ave. (between 31st and 30th St.)
nypizzasuprema.com

If you can’t decide: City Kitchen

If your group’s already arguing about where to eat — or perhaps you’re arguing with yourself! — your best bet is City Kitchen, located at the Row NYC Hotel. When you enter what’s billed as “A Times Square Food Market” you’ll find a busy room ringed by upscale food stalls.

I have a couple of favorites. Whitmans, one outpost of a popular burger-and-fries joint founded in New York’s East Village, serves a pared-down menu starring their Upstate Burger, a signature beef short rib blend, and an oddly satisfying version topped with peanut butter and applewood smoked bacon. Luke’s Lobster, another East Village import, serves their signature lobster rolls and a more cheapo-friendly shrimp roll to aficionados at almost 40 locations worldwide. But there’s more: Azuki sushi, Ilili Box Mediterranean cuisine, Gabriela’s Taqueria and Kuro-Obi ramen.

Whatever you choose, don’t miss Dough, an outpost for one of the city’s great doughnut shops. Their rotating menu includes unexpected flavors like hibiscus and passion fruit. A couple of my favorites — Nutella and dulce de leche — are also often available.

City Kitchen
700 8th Ave. (at 44th St.)
citykitchen.rownyc.com

Your tips for Times Square

Where do you like to eat for cheap when you’re in Times Square? Let us know in the comments!

The post NYC: The best cheap eats near Times Square appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

There’s just one catch — it’s also one of the most expensive times when it comes to booking hotels. And although there are ways to save on your New York hotel, with so many sparkling attractions, millions of other travelers want to experience this special holiday joy as well. Rates soar and rooms fill up fast. 2019 might bring a little relief because the holiday falls on a Wednesday making it harder for travelers to plan a long weekend getaway.

However, there are a handful of hotels that keep prices down, even during one of the busiest times of the year. Here are three hotels that put you in the heart of the holiday action for less. All of our picks offer double rooms for under $160 on Christmas Eve.

New York is full of surprises, even holiday hotel rates sometimes!

Related:
• Cheapo Guide: Visiting New York on a budget
• 5 Super cheap and central hotels in New York City
• Best cheap hotels near Broadway theaters

Affordable New York Christmas hotels

The classic Hotel 31 makes an affordable home base during the holidays.

Hotel 31

120 East 31st St (between Lexington & Park Ave)
Doubles with shared bathroom on Christmas Eve from: $134

Nestled between two major Manhattan streets, this two-star hotel puts you in a lovely New York neighborhood. There’s nothing trendy about the hotel’s location or style (think “grandmotherly”), but the rooms are cozy, very clean and come with free Wi-Fi. When you want to see New York decked out for the season, you can stroll over to Madison Square Park or the Union Square Holiday Market in about 15 minutes.

On Christmas Eve, you can walk a few blocks south to Gramercy Park to see the beautiful tree and sing carols. It’s the only time of the year when the park is open to the public!

Pod 51 Hotel

230 East 51st (at Second Ave)
Doubles with a private bathroom on Christmas Eve from: $122

Sure the rooms are tiny, but so are the prices for Christmastime in NYC!  You can walk to Central Park in about 15 minutes or head south to Grand Central Terminal to see the Holiday Train Show. In the morning, you can go around the corner to Ess-a-Bagel for the perfect way to start your holiday adventure!

Get into the holiday spirit with a stroll over to Fifth Avenue for the sparkling window displays, then hit up Rockefeller Center which is only 10 minutes from Pod 51.

The Hotel @ Times Square has a comfy sitting area, perfect for reading your guidebook (or iPhone!) before heading out.

The Hotel @ Times Square

59 West 46th St (at 6th Ave)
Doubles on Christmas Eve from: $152

With a location, just a five-minute stroll to the famous tree and ice rink at Rockefeller Center in one direction and Bryant Park Winter Village the other way, this three-star hotel places you in the middle of the holiday festivities. And did we mention they have spacious rooms (at least by Manhattan standards), coffee makers, Wi-Fi and free breakfast? It will be hard to find a better (or cheaper for what you get) base for exploring New York during the holidays.

More options

Want to see more affordable hotel options in the center of Manhattan? Check out our guide to recommended budget hotels in New York.

The post Surprisingly affordable New York hotels for Christmas appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

But how do you do it without breaking the bank? Considering that average nightly hotel rates during Thanksgiving in New York can reach well above $500 per night, getting a deal is no small task.

Good news, Cheapos, we’ve been keeping an eye on hotel prices for Thanksgiving’s big-ticket nights (Wednesday, November 27th through Sunday, December 1st) and were pleasantly surprised by the number of affordable hotel options still available.

Let us preface this by saying that hotels in New York, by and large, aren’t always cheap. In fact, during peak times the rates have a tendency to become fairly outrageous. Fortunately, our editors have scouted out dozens of budget hotel options that are central, cheap, clean and perfect locations to explore this wonderful city.

Hotels for an affordable Thanksgiving in New York

Here are four of our favorites that have availability and reasonable rates for this Thanksgiving holiday. Note: Rates quoted are based on double occupancy for searches conducted on Thursday, 10/10/19. Rates will likely increase as we get closer to the holiday.

#1: The Jane Hotel

113 Jane Street in Greenwich Village / West Village
Thanksgiving Weekend Price: From $125

Perk: Charming neighborhood and free bicycles for guests

From our review: “Part SRO (Single Room Occupancy) and part hipster den, the Jane Hotel is a beautiful beast, a glammed-up flophouse in a gorgeous ‘hood. And best of all for visiting Cheapos, the Jane offers twin rooms with shared bath for low prices.”

Staying in the West Village is a treat that will usually cost you a bundle. If you’re looking for something that’s a little bit quirky and fun, The Jane might be for you.

Pod 51 Hotel makes a fun and affordable Thanksgiving stay.

#2: Pod 51 Hotel

230 East 51st St. in Midtown East / Murray Hill
Thanksgiving Price: $189

Perk: In the heart of Midtown near the subway

From our review: “The two-star Pod Hotel is an appealing and affordable option in the heart of Midtown East, offering well-designed (if tight) rooms with seriously low rates.”

The rooms might be really tiny but they’re also well-designed with a modern look. If you don’t mind sharing a bathroom, you’ll have a great location near Grand Central Terminal and the United Nations. The famous Fifth Avenue stores and holiday window displays are also a quick stroll away.

A clean and comfy room at Seafarers & International House.

#3: Seafarers & International House

123 East 15th St. Broome Street in Union Square / Gramercy
Thanksgiving Price: $102

Perk: Near Union Square’s holiday market

From our review: “The Seafarers and International House is run by the Augustana Lutheran mission as, officially at least, a sanctuary for sailors and sojourners… In addition to its great location, a stone’s throw from Union Square, and affordable rates, the Seafarers and International House provides a friendly — if undeniably religious — atmosphere.”

Rooms might be basic, but with an incredible location like this for such a cheap price, we’ll happily hop on board!

Which one would you choose, Cheapos? 

Are you headed to New York this Thanksgiving? Tell us about your hotel! Also, if you’re planning a visit, be sure to read our previous post on the best spots to watch the Thanksgiving Day Parade.

The post 4 Cheap New York City hotels for Thanksgiving visits appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Wrong. While January through March is the cheapest season for hotel rates and flights, things are still downright affordable in the fall. Throw in the added bonus that the weather is almost perfect, and you will be ready to fall in love with New York — in fall!

Related
• Cheapo Guide: Visiting New York on a budget
• 5 Super cheap hotels in Manhattan
• The Best cheap hotels near Broadway theaters

 Visiting New York City in fall

Before the holiday season kicks into high gear, New York can be surprisingly affordable for travelers. Here are 6 reasons to visit New York in the fall.

1. Airfares are lower

As the temperature drops in New York, so do the airfares. For example, while summer fares from San Francisco to New York hover around $500, they drop below $400 in September. Other cities showed similar trends, with airfare dropping anywhere from $20 to $150 between the middle of September and the middle of November. Note, though, that your window is small: Fares will spike again at Thanksgiving and remain high through the holidays.

2. The weather is fine

Because so many of New York’s major attractions are best seen while strolling through the city, pleasant weather can make a huge difference in a trip. Fall is that sweet spot sandwiched between summer’s mugginess and winter’s bitter chill, and its moderate weather makes it a joy to explore, whether you’re leaf-peeping in Central Park or strolling through the gorgeous streets of the West Village.

Related: Which neighborhood is right for your New York City trip?

3. The hotel rates drop

Like airfares, New York hotel rates also take a dip after the summer rush. A recent search found that a double room at the stylish Ameritania Hotel near Time Square costs $404 a night at the end of August, and throughout the fall runs between $300 and $350, dropping as low as $221 in mid-November.

Keep in mind, though, that there will be a shocking spike during Fashion Week (in early September) and again over Thanksgiving weekend, although there are some deals for Turkey Day.

Related: How to save on your hotel in New York City

4. The crowds are smaller

After the summer throngs had returned to school and work and real life, New York suddenly feels a whole lot calmer. True, the streets are still crowded, but somehow it feels like you have a lot more space. Plus, crowds at the most famous attractions will be smaller too.

Related: 6 Under-the-Radar (and free) parks to explore in NYC

5. Explore free sights abound

The number of free sights in New York does not necessarily expand in the fall, but the viability of hitting them all is proportional to the weather: The more comfortable the temps are, the easier it is to be outside. Thus, while in summer and winter you may be more inclined to seek air conditioning or heat indoors (quests that often involve paying for a drink or museum ticket), during the fall you can save on food, entertainment and transportation since it’s easier to wander around attractions and taking in the city’s myriad beautiful parks.

Related: 5 haunted (and free!) haunted New York City spots

6. It’s a festive time of year

Between pumpkins, technicolor leaves and all things apple, fall has a cozy yet vibrant feeling that is hard to beat. And everything from Central Park to the Union Square farmer’s market catches the fever.

Finding cheap hotels in New York City

Ready to visit New York? Browse all of our budget hotel picks to find the perfect place to stay and check out all of our NYC articles for more advice on finding a hotel.

What’s your favorite part of visiting New York in the fall? Tell us in the comments below!

The post 6 Cheapo reasons for visiting New York in the fall appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Whether you want to visit one of the world’s top museums, grab a bite to eat, or catch a Broadway show, the city that never sleeps will also never let go of your wallet. It’s easy to blow through your budget here in a “New York minute” if you’re not careful.

More New York tips:
• The best budget hotels in New York City
• 10 easy ways to save on a trip to the Big Apple
• The best cheap eats near Times Square

How to visit New York on a budget

But don’t cancel your vacation plans or scream, “Fuhgeddaboudit!” just yet. Along with all of the high-priced pleasures also come plenty of low-cost fun. In fact, despite the city’s reputation of prices as high as the Chrysler Building, if you plan your trip right, New York can be a very affordable vacation destination.

And that’s where we come in. Although EuroCheapo is primarily focused on ways to save in Europe, we’re based in New York and have plenty to say about ways to save on your trip here. Read on to learn our secrets to keeping your Big Apple budget in check.

How expensive is it?

Quick answer: Very, if you’re not careful. Things are just bigger, bolder and pricier in New York. This is especially the case in tourist-friendly neighborhoods like Times Square and SoHo or upscale areas like Tribeca or the Upper East Side. If you don’t have a strategy to save when you’re exploring the city, then you can easily spend hundreds of dollars a day during your visit.

Here’s what you can expect to pay in 2018 for a few sample items:

• Average hotel per night: $275 (EuroCheapo recommended hotels: $150)
• Taxi ride from Times Square to Greenwich Village: $16 + tip
• Typical attractions: $25 and up
• “Nice” meal for two (with tip and drinks): $100 and up
• Beer: $6-8
• Coffee: $3-5
• Bottle of water: $2-3

The Mayfair Hotel offers affordable rooms in the heart of the city. Photo: Courtesy of Mayfair

Saving on hotels

When it comes to searching for affordable hotels in New York, things can sometimes seem impossible for budget-conscious travelers. Unless you’re searching for a Sunday night in February, you’ll probably immediately see several rates for $400 and up on most popular booking sites. And yes, that’s per night!

Then, when you drill down into the cheaper sleeps, you will most likely find some much less expensive options, but most will be far away from Manhattan in the far reaches of the outer boroughs or across the water in New Jersey.

However, there are still several affordable and central accommodation options that offer a good value, and that’s where EuroCheapo can help. Almost all of our New York City hotels clock in at $150 per night or less and many of our favorite picks come in at under $100 during low season. Even if some of the rates seem expensive for a one- or two-star hotel, remember, we only recommend hotels that have central locations, so you won’t have to spend half of your vacation on the subway.

And with so many well-located hotels to choose from, your hardest decision might be picking which NYC neighborhood is right for your visit.

Some of our favorite budget hotels in central New York include:

• The Mayfair in Times Square (Doubles from $120)

• The Jane Hotel in Greenwich Village (Singles from $88)

• The Carlton Arms Hotel in Gramercy Park (Doubles from $90)

• SoHotel in SoHo (Doubles from $129)

• Hotel 31 in Murray Hill (Doubles from $96)

• Seafarers & International House in Union Square (Doubles from $115)

• The Pod Hotel in Midtown (Doubles from $94)

Other options

Renting an apartment: Searching on apartment rental sites like Airbnb, Homeaway, and others, can turn up some great deals, and these rentals have the extra benefit of including a kitchen or small kitchenette. Just be sure to pay attention to location, as many of the most affordable rentals are not located in central Manhattan, but in farther reaches of the outlying boroughs. Also pay attention to check-in / check-out policies, as you don’t want to be locked out on a city sidewalk without access to your rental.

Youth hostels: Cheapest of all the options is staying in a dorm or private room of a youth hostel. New York offers several, although our favorite in the city is the Hosteling International New York City Hostel, located in a gorgeous turn-of-the-century brick building on the Upper West Side near Central Park. Doubles from $46.

Connecting from the AirTrain to the subway at JFK is easy. And a lot cheaper than a taxi. Photo: Matthew R.

Affordable ways to get in from the airport

New York City has an excellent (well, most of the time) public transportation network that runs 24 hours a day. All three of New York’s main airports are connected to Manhattan by rail or bus, although some of these trips are easier than others.

To/From JFK Airport you can take the AirTrain and subway ($7.75 total trip, approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to/from Midtown).

To/From Newark International Airport you can take the AirTrain to NJ Transit trains, which go directly to Penn Station ($13 total trip, approximately 45 minutes – 1 hour)

To/From LaGuardia (LGA) you can take the new Q70 express bus that makes limited stops and connects to the subway ($2.75, approximately 45 minutes from Midtown).

Taxis

All of the options above are much cheaper than a taxi, which, granted can be quicker (if you don’t hit rush hour traffic), but will easily top out at over $50 with tip and tolls. Estimated taxi costs to/from Midtown Manhattan to:

LaGuardia: Metered ride $30-40 (depending on traffic) + tolls & tip

JFK: $52 flat fee + tolls & tip

Newark: Metered ride $50-75 + tolls & tip

Airport buses

A more budget-friendly solution is to take an airport shuttle bus directly to Midtown. There are several companies such as NYC Airporter, Super Shuttle, Go Airlink and Newark Airport Express that offer service from $15 to $24.

Tickets are generally not required in advance; just head outside the terminal and follow signs for “buses to Manhattan.” However, you could save a few dollars by booking tickets in advance through the websites above.

Saving on getting around town

Once you arrive, plan on taking the subway and walking a lot if you really want to see the city and save on transportation costs. Walking is a budget traveler’s best friend, and New York is no exception. Especially if you plan on spending most of your time in Manhattan, it’s not that difficult to get nearly everywhere on foot, mixing in an occasional subway trip to cover longer distances. (This is especially the case if staying in a centrally located hotel.)

Just be sure to pack a comfy pair of walking shoes — but don’t wait to break them in until you arrive! (Seriously, if you’re packing a new pair of shoes, start breaking them in a few days before arriving.)

Along with 24-hour service, the MTA subway and bus system is still very affordable.

Subway prices: One ride: $2.75; 7-day unlimited pass: $33

Should you buy an unlimited pass? That depends. If you plan to walk everywhere, it may not be worth the investment, but if you plan to take at least 12 rides over the course of the week, it pays for itself. The more you ride, the more you save!

Taxis vs subways

Public transit is almost always cheaper for a single traveler than taking a taxi, Uber, or other private cars. One ride in a taxi or Uber might cost you the same amount as a seven-day MTA pass ($32), good for unlimited rides on all subway and bus lines.

Check out which MetroCard might be right for your trip. That said, if you’re traveling in a group, add it up. Sometimes a short ride in a taxi might actually be cheaper than paying for multiple Metro fares (at $2.75 each).

Citibike bike share program

Intrepid travelers might want to hop on a bike during their New York adventure. There are a surprising amount of bike lanes in the city, and you can’t beat a cruise along the Hudson or through Central Park.

New York’s bike share program, Citibike, is a good alternative to bike rentals with docking stations all over Manhattan below 59th Street. Note that short-term members (one week and one day passes) may take unlimited 30-minute rides, while annual memberships allow unlimited 45-minute rides. The new-ish electric bikes cost a little more, but you can cover much more ground on a ride around Central Park or along the Hudson River.

Citibike prices (for unlimited 30-minute rides): Single ride: $3.50; One-day pass: $15; One year pass: $179 (more pricing info)

Attractions and sightseeing

There’s simply no way around the fact that tickets to many of the city’s most popular sights are expensive. For example, you’ll have to shell out some serious cash to ride up to the top of the Empire State Building (starting at $42), One World Observatory (starting at $43) and Top of the Rock ($36).

But there are some attractions that will never cost a dime. These include:

• Staten Island Ferry: Enjoy a free skyline view from the Staten Island Ferry, which runs between Battery Park and Staten Island 24-hours a day and is always free. It’s also a lovely (and free) way to float past the Statue of Liberty, instead of paying for a pricey harbor cruise.

• Free admission to the museums. Keep an eye out for free nights at the museums. MoMA is usually free on Friday nights but that is suspended due to COVID-19. The Guggenheim is free on Saturday evenings from 4 to 6 pm. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is pay-what-you-wish for New York State residents only.

• Brooklyn Bridge: Strolling over the historic wooden walkway of this famous bridge is a rite of passage for many tourists — and for good reason with incredible views of New York. Go in the evening when the crowds are a little smaller and the city lights start to glow.

• Times Square: The self-proclaimed “Crossroads of the World” can be a bit dizzying and dazzling. You can feel the energy of the city all around you as the gigantic signs light up the streets and all sorts of characters (and plenty of tourists) roam around. This is free entertainment at its zaniest. (Just don’t expect to pose for a photo with Elmo without paying.)

• Central Park: Perhaps New York’s most visited attraction, Central Park is free to roam, meander, picnic, jog, cycle and doze. The park is also home to free events throughout the year, including its popular Summerstage and Shakespeare in the Park performances (see under “Entertainment” below).

• Walking Tours: Do you love history? To see a side of the city you might miss on your own, we suggest taking a tour with Bowery Boys Walks. Explore the history of Broadway, Central Park, Greenwich Village, 19th-century NoHo, and the World’s Fair site in Queens. They also offer virtual tours, so you can visit NYC without leaving your couch.

Should you get a tourist pass?

If you prefer to be bused about with other tourists from one iconic sight to the next, buying a tourist sightseeing pass could be a good deal. However, if you prefer a more relaxed schedule, with time to stroll around town with a few attractions thrown in here or there, it will probably be better to pay-as-you-go.

The New York Pass is not cheap, but you can easily get your money’s worth if you plan on visiting several popular sites like Top of the Rock, MoMA or a Circle Line Cruise in one day. It gives you admission to 80 New York attractions and allows you to jump to the front of the line for some of them. However, with a price tag of $117 (1 day), $180 (3 days), $234 (5 days) $270 (7 days) for adults, you really need to stay busy in order to get your money’s worth. (For a bit more, the New York Pass also offers a hop on/hop off bus service.)

Saving on meals

Eating out in New York on a budget is getting trickier with each passing year. Even a classic New York diner can set you back a quite a bit if you’re not careful. Once you throw in drinks and the expected 15-20% tip, the bill can be quite a shock.

As a general rule, try to avoid dining in the touristy neighborhoods, especially Times Square. This part of town is filled with overpriced chain eateries, many of which you can find in Anytown, USA. Escape Midtown and head instead to more residential neighborhoods to find budget-friendly eats. Some suggestions:

• Chinatown is packed with budget eateries. Follow your nose, heading south of Canal Street on Mott and Elizabeth Streets.

• Hit up one of the city’s famous pizzerias. A “pie”, salad and carafe of wine won’t set you back that much, and you’ll get a taste of real New York. (See John’s of Bleecker, below.)

• Bagel shops make for incredibly cheap and delicious breakfasts or lunches that you won’t find anywhere else. (See Ess-a-Bagel, below.)

• And don’t overlook the street carts. While many sell mediocre pretzels and hot dogs, others offer tasty meat over rice dishes that are filling meals for around $7. Don’t know which one to buy from? Hint: If you see a long line of office workers, that’s always a good sign!

Favorite budget-friendly restaurants

Some of our favorite authentic New York dining experiences that won’t break the bank include:

John’s of 12th Street
East Village (202 E 12th St)
Old-school Italian dining at its best with atmosphere, good prices, and great food.

Veselka
East Village (144 2nd Ave)
Classic 24-hour diner serving authentic (and delicious) Ukrainian food since 1954.

John’s of Bleecker
Greenwich Village (278 Bleecker St)
Making tasty coal oven pizza since 1929 in a no-frills space. No slices!

Ess-a-Bagel
Midtown (831 3rd Ave)
The bagels are the real deal at this Midtown shop with long lines and low prices.

Margon
Times Square (136 W 46th St)
Heaping plates of homemade Cuban food for under $10.

Nom Wah Tea Parlor
Chinatown (13 Doyers St)
Oldest dim sum restaurant in New York with fantastic dumplings and a vintage feel.

Papaya King
East Village / Upper East Side (3 St. Mark’s Place/ 179 E 86th St)
New York staple dishing out grilled hot dogs with onion relish and sauerkraut.

Sylvia’s
Harlem (328 Malcolm X Blvd)
Famous soul food spot with affordable bills and a gospel Sunday brunch.

Taim
NoLita / West Village (45 Spring St / 222 Waverly Pl)
Fancy falafel shop with unique and tasty flavors plus wallet-friendly prices.

Entertainment

Want to see the hottest hit Broadway show or a world-class artist in concert? Well, you’re coming to the right city! Here’s how to save:

• Broadway: There’s no need to pay full price for those seats. The TKTS discount ticket booths (at Times Square, South Street Seaport and Downtown Brooklyn) offer same-day discounts of up to 50% for Broadway and Off-Broadway shows. If you’re a bit more flexible, you can also try your luck with a show’s lottery or standing room ticket, or book in advance through a site like Broadway Box with discount codes. (Read more about these, and several other tips for saving on Broadway tickets.)

• Off-Broadway: Also, why not stray a bit from the big theaters in Midtown? Opt for an off-Broadway performance instead for a more affordable and sometimes more interesting experience.

• Opera: The Metropolitan Opera releases rush tickets online for $25 and cheap standing room tickets at the box office on the day of the performance.

• Music clubs / Jazz: There are also lots of music clubs hosting shows with no cover. Pick up a copy of Time Out New York (free every Wednesday) for full listings.

• Summer events: There are plenty of free shows and concerts to enjoy around the city during the balmy summer nights. From Shakespeare in the Park performances to Central Park’s Summerstage concerts and outdoor movie screenings at Bryant Park, there’s something free going on almost every night.

Your tips for saving in New York

Have a tip to share for saving on your trip to New York City? Tell us how you save in the comments section below!

The post Cheapo Guide: Visiting New York on a budget appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

If you know the Bowery Boys award-winning podcast, each episode takes you on a journey through a fascinating topic in the history of The Big Apple. These new walking tours will help bring the city’s bygone days to life on the streets where the stories actually took place.

Each expert guide will be hand-picked to capture the entertaining style and riveting storylines that the Bowery Boys capture on every podcast.

Small-group New York City walking tours

To start things off, the first tour, “Landmarks and Legends of Broadway”, is led by Jeff Dobbins, a New York theater insider and Broadway expert, who knows his way around the scene. He’ll take you on a stroll through the history of Broadway and beyond. Highlights on the tour include:

• Times Square, the “Crossroads of the World” and home to NYC’s Theater District
• Broadway’s landmarked theaters, where legendary shows have played.
• The former home of the Ziegfeld Follies
• Sardi’s Restaurant
• Shubert Alley, the long-time town square of the Broadway community
• Rodgers & Hammerstein Way
• Broadway’s most haunted theater

The first walking tour launches on Sunday, October 7th. There are only a few spaces left, but there are also tours on Saturday, October 13th and Sunday, October 14th.

More walking tours coming soon

Check out the full calendar of tours. Many more will be added in the coming weeks as new tour guides join the Bowery Boys Walks’ team. Future tours will cover a variety of fun topics taken straight from the podcast.

You can also keep up to date on the latest news by becoming a friend of Bowery Boys Walks on Facebook or follow them on Instagram, where you can catch a glimpse of the latest photos from the walk and streets of New York.

The post Take a Stroll through NYC History: Bowery Boys walking tours appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

As a longtime Cheapo, a Broadway fiend, and a lover of all things New York City, Chip has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to saving money on trips to the city.

More budget tips for New York
• NYC hotels under $100
• How to visit The Big Apple on the cheap
• NYC: Cheap hotels near Broadway

10 Ways to save on a trip to NYC

From scoring the cheapest tickets to hot shows to finding the best rates on hotels, Chip shares 10 easy ways he saves when he travels to New York.

How do you save in NYC? Be sure to share your New York budget travel tips in the comments at the end of the article.

Now let’s hear what Chip has to say!

Save on your subway rides with a 7-day MetroCard. Photo: Mr.TinDC

Transportation

1. Ride the subway

Go underground to get around the city. The subway is much more affordable than cabs and most times a lot quicker — especially during rush hour!

2. Get an unlimited MetroCard

Get a MetroCard right when you arrive. If you’re in town for a few days, consider getting a 7-day unlimited MetroCard. The cost is $32, and you can ride the subway and bus as much as you want without ever having to worry about refilling it. Single rides cost $2.75, so do the math, and you’ll probably save a bit of cash.

3. Walk!

New York City might be huge, but many of the sights you’ll be visiting are within an easy walk of each other. You can save a lot of money by walking whenever possible.

Stay in the heart of Times Square without breaking the bank at the Hotel Edison.

Accommodations

3. Book your hotel room in advance

With dynamic pricing, changes all the time, book refundable (able to be cancelled without penalty) reservations as early as possible. Then, check back often before your trip to see if you can re-book at the same hotel or another hotel at a lower rate. With steep fees and taxes, room rate savings can really add up.

4. Use EuroCheapo!

EuroCheapo provides great options in New York, all reviewed by actual editors. EuroCheapo helped me find my home away from home for many years at the Larchmont Hotel (recently closed, unfortunately) in Greenwich Village, and many other options now like the Jane Hotel and Hotel 31. These are hotels that often fly under the radar on bigger hotel booking sites.

5. Share a bathroom

Consider a hotel that offers rooms with shared baths (like the Pod 51 Hotel), which can lower your room rate by at least $100 per night! It might seem like a pain, but if you’re out all day, you could save $25 per walk down the hall. That buys a lot of pizza and bagels!

Need more tips on finding a cheap hotel in New York? Check out the guide to saving on hotels in The Big Apple.

Did you know the Met Museum has a pay-what-you-wish policy? Photo: Peter B.

Attractions and entertainment

6. Museums with free admission

In New York, you can see amazing art for free. Head for Free Fridays (4 pm to 8 pm) at the MoMA, and pay what you wish at Metropolitan Museum of Art and the American Museum of Natural History.

Check out this list of free museums in New York City by day. EuroCheapo found a freebie for every day of the week!

7. Free music

Take the time to experience the city’s music! Head to Washington Square Park (my favorite place) and other parks. In the park, I recently saw Passenger during one of his tours. In June, take advantage of hundreds of free concerts throughout the city during Make Music New York. You’ll also find concerts in many churches, including Trinity Wall Street, or head underground to listen to the local talent on the subway.

8. Save on theater

Save money by joining the Theater Development Fund, and by purchasing rush tickets, TKTS tickets, and off-Broadway tickets. If you plan ahead, you can attend a television show taping, especially for daytime shows, for free.

For more on theater deals, check out my article 7 Ways to Save on Broadway Tickets.

9. Enjoy the free city views!

Ride the Staten Island Ferry for free to see stunning views of Lower Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty. It doesn’t take long, so you can squeeze it in even if you’re on a short visit.

If you have more time, you can also grab a ride or walk over the Brooklyn Bridge for more incredible views of the skyline.

Dumplings are always cheap in Chinatown. Chip loves Nom Wah! Photo: Adam G.

Food in NYC

10. Seek out international cuisine for the best deals

In New York, you can enjoy world-class food that’s cheap. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Bagels: Murray’s
• Dim sum: Nom Wah
• Pizza: NY Pizza Suprema, Bleecker Street, and others
• Baked goods: Breads Bakery, Doughnut Project, Dough, Doughnut Plant

Save money by enjoying meals from street vendors (there are more than just hot dogs!) such as NY Dosas (my favorite), The Halal Guys (so successful, it became a restaurant), Wafels & Dinges (also became a restaurant), and much more.

Get take-out food and enjoy it in the park (try a sandwich from Faicco’s and Murray’s Cheese in the Village). Enjoy two meals a day and hit up nya bodega for breakfast for an egg and cheese roll. Grab your fruit from street vendors. You can get bananas about 25 cents, which is a good option for a cheapo breakfast.

Bonus tip

And on top of these fantastic budget tips for your trip to New York, Chip also has a little advice on really making the most of your time in the city:

“Listen to a podcast, like the Bowery Boys, to learn more about what you are seeing and experiencing. There are more than 230 free episodes of the Bowery Boys podcast about people, neighborhoods, and institutions in the city to make what you see and do more meaningful.

You can also carry a guidebook (or download a digital book on your phone) to check out interesting sites and facts about the places you are visiting.

And finally, participate in some of New York’s walking tours on the High Line, Washington Square Park, and Gramercy Park, to name a few.”

Chip, the star of this article, posing in Lincoln Center on his way to the opera.

Thank you, Chip, for sharing all of this Cheapo advice for adventuring (and saving money) in New York!

Interested in sharing your favorite budget travel tips to your favorite destinations and being featured on our website? Contact us!

The post 10 easy ways I save on my trips to New York appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.