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.

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.

Surprisingly, there are still plenty of good budget options in the city, including dozens of independently owned hotels, if you know where to look and if your timing is right. You might miss out on a few upscale amenities at these places, but you won’t mind with all of the money you save. Besides, you won’t be hanging around your room all day when you have a big city to go explore!

It’s important to pay close attention to details like location and when you book. We’ve compiled our top tips to show you the secret to booking an affordable hotel in NYC.

Are you ready for a New York getaway? Check rates for New York hotels now.

More New York tips:
• Cheapo Guide: Visiting New York City on a budget
• Cheap New York hotels near Broadway and the Theater District
• 5 Super cheap hotels in Manhattan

The Hotel @ Times Square puts you right in the heart of Manhattan.

How to save on New York City hotels

Here are ten of our top tips for finding the right hotel room in New York City on a budget.

1. It’s all about location, location, location.

It may sound obvious, but where you plop yourself down at night should depend on what you want to see during your visit. If you’re intending to hit the top sightseeing spots in town (Empire State Building, Central Park, Wall Street, etc), then Manhattan is the obvious choice.

And even if Times Square doesn’t appeal to you, don’t overlook it. The neighborhood is crammed with hotels, which can lead to competition and drive down rates, and the subway access is second-to-none. (Check out this list of cheap hotels in Times Square and the Theater District.)

We also quite like the budget hotels in Greenwich Village and the West Village, as they’re further afield from the tourist action and still very convenient, day and night.

In short, by picking a central hotel, you’ll save money on transportation (especially expensive taxis and Ubers), and save time spent getting around. Sleeping in a far-off corner of the city might save you some cash, but it could also put shackles on your schedule.

Having said that…

The view from Courtyard by Marriott Long Island City is a doozy and it’s just a subway ride away from Midtown.

2. Consider looking beyond Manhattan

Remember that New York is comprised of five boroughs, Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island. Although we always recommend that first-time visitors try booking a hotel in Manhattan first, there are excellent deals to be found in the outer boroughs. We recently did a round-up of a few cheap hotels in Brooklyn that we added to our hotel guide.

For example, if you find a room in Long Island City, Queens, or Williamsburg, Brooklyn, you’ll be just a quick subway ride from Manhattan. The photo above shows the view from the Courtyard by Marriott in Long Island City.

Search for hotels in the outer boroughs:
500+ Hotels in Brooklyn
230+ Hotels in Queens
60+ Hotels in the Bronx
20+ Hotels in Staten Island

Just be sure to double-check exactly where the hotel is located and if a subway station is nearby (meaning a 5-10 minute walk away).

And speaking of subways…

3. Stay near the subway

Choosing a hotel near a subway station accomplishes a number of goals for discerning Cheapos. On your arrival, you can skip the expensive taxi from the airport and take the subway to your hotel. If you don’t have a lot of luggage, it’s an easy way to get to your hotel, especially if you fly into JFK.

Once you’re checked in and ready to head off and explore the city, just get a MetroCard and the city is at your fingertips. Remember, in New York, the subway runs 24 hours a day!

Cheapo Pick: The Seafarers & International House (temporarily closed) is located one block from bustling Union Square where you can catch nine different subway lines!

4. Choose your dates wisely

Want to see the famous skating rink at Rockefeller Center on Thanksgiving weekend? Don’t expect a deal! The holiday season and summertime in NYC can see rates skyrocket, but if you’re flexible with your dates, and don’t mind coming in the off-season (especially from January to April), affordable hotels are easier to find than you think.

Just keep an eye out for big events on the calendar like Fashion Week (see dates) and the UN General Assembly in September.

Related: Strategy Tips: How not to get stuck with the worst hotel room

5. Plan a weekend getaway

Surprisingly, you might be able to enjoy a more affordable escape to New York on a weekend. With all of the business travelers coming for meetings during the week, rates can run higher on weekdays. Prices can spike on a Monday but fall on a Saturday. Spend a Saturday morning getting dim sum in Chinatown or a Sunday afternoon strolling along The High Line.

Cheapo Pick: Pod 51 offers small but very attractive rooms in the heart of Midtown for low rates. On weekend mornings you can get up early and beat the crowds at the renowned Ess-A-Bagel right around the corner!

6. Book a refundable room in advance

Many hotels allow reserving a room with the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance. If you find a great deal, book it right away!

Cheapo Pick: Booking a refundable room at the 3-star Sohotel only costs $10-20 more than the non-refundable option. This chic yet affordable stay is located in the fun Lower East Side neighborhood.

You can always cancel later on if you find something better. Or if you’re not one to plan way in advance…

7. Keep an eye out for last-minute deals

Sometimes good things come to those that wait. That’s not usually the standard rule for New York City hotels, but it’s always worth a shot. Depending on what’s going in the city, you can find some very nice deals a few days before you leave… or even at the very last minute!

8. Watch out for extra charges on your bill

Even if you see a hotel for $104 a night, it might not include all of the taxes and fees. That low rate can quickly rise to a very expensive final bill. In New York, there is a 14.75% hotel tax plus a flat fee of $3.50 per day.

When you book through EuroCheapo, these fees are included in the rate you see, so you won’t end up with unforeseen costs. Check out our favorite New York hotels under $100.

9. Consider a private room in a hostel

The word hostel usually conjures up images of sprawling rooms filled with bunk beds and a party-hard clientele. But Cheapos in search of a deal shouldn’t overlook hostels In New York. There are several hostels that offer private rooms for hostel prices in a more adult atmosphere.

Cheapo Pick: The Jane offers swanky rooms with spic-and-span shared baths in the West Village.

The shared co-ed bathrooms at The Jane Hotel are actually quite spiffy.

10. Share a bath

Speaking of hostels, there are still quite a few reliable places that offer bunks at deeply discounted prices. If you don’t mind sharing space — and a bathroom — then you can stay in Manhattan for less than $50 per night.

Cheapo Pick: A favorite is the HI NYC Hostel on the Upper West Side.

There are also a surprising amount of cheap hotels in Manhattan (such as the Pod 51 Hotel in Midtown and Hotel 31 in Murray Hill) that offer shared baths. If you don’t mind this, then you can save a few hundred dollars over the course of a week.

11. Don’t overlook smaller, independent hotels

We admit that chain hotels have a lot of advantages, especially when it comes to price. Manhattan is home to every chain hotel you can think of. However, nothing beats a memorable stay at a friendly independent hotel. There’s just something about the personal touches and human interaction that we really enjoy. We’ve waxed poetic about London’s wonderful family-run hotels and New York has a few to seek out as well.

Cheapo Picks: Hotel 414 is a cozy B&B with budget-friendly rooms and an easygoing staff in Hell’s Kitchen, while the Chelsea Pines is a fun spot with a super-friendly crew and decor dedicated to Hollywood’s Golden Age.

Search New York budget hotels now

Know your travel dates? Search our database of New York City budget hotels in the search box above, or in our guide to cheap hotels in New York.

The post How to save on New York City hotels 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.

Searching for availability on EuroCheapo three months out, we found fantastic rates in the heart of the Big Apple. All of these hotels are either close to Times Square, Midtown, Soho or Union Square — all amazing locations within walking distance of everything a visitor might have on their New York bucket list.

But maybe you still have some doubts — will you be sacrificing quality by staying at a budget hotel? No need to worry, as all of the hotels on this cheapo list earn customer ratings of 7.5 or higher.

Related:
• See all recommended budget hotels in New York City
• Best cheap hotels near Broadway theaters

Super cheap hotels in Manhattan

The following are five of our favorite hotels deals in Manhattan. Be sure to click through to read our full reviews, and to check your dates for rates.

Rooms at Broadway at Times Square put you close to the action of Manhattan for a nice price.

Broadway at Times Square

From $115

Feel the bright lights of Times Square shining down on you when you stay at this 3-star hotel. Each of the 79 rooms comes with a flat-screen TV, iPod dock, and coffee maker. In the morning you can plan out your New York itinerary with the free Wi-Fi that is accessible throughout the hotel. And with a price of $115 for a queen room, you’ll have plenty of money left over to spend on a Broadway show. The TKTS booth is just down the block!

Read full review.

Rooms are small but modern and ultra-comfortable at Solita Soho Hotel.

Solita Soho Hotel

From $98

Hotels in Soho are notoriously expensive. However, this 3-star hotel offers budget travelers a break from the sky-high prices without sacrificing on quality or location. Walk south towards Chinatown to enjoy a bevy of cheap eats or walk a few blocks north to window shop along the chic streets of Soho. The rooms offer contemporary design with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi. They’re small — but so are the prices. You can book a corner queen room for as low as $98 per night.

Read full review. 

Budget travelers will love the rates at Hotel 31 just steps from posh Park Avenue.

Hotel 31

From $80

This 2-star hotel certainly won’t win any design awards. But that doesn’t bother us one bit when you can score $80 double rooms (with shared bathroom). If you’re looking for style, just stroll down the street to Park and Madison Avenues. Rooms in this neighborhood usually command at least three times the price, so we’re happy to bed down in these clean and comfy rooms. And if you plan on riding to the to the top of the Empire State Building during your Big Apple vacation, it’s just a 5-minute walk away!

Read full review

It won’t win style points, but Hotel 17 is a champion of budget travelers with super cheap rooms.

Hotel 17

From $96

Looking to stay in a real New York neighborhood? Step away from the more touristy districts when you stay at this 2-star hotel located close to bustling Union Square. You can shop for snacks at the Union Square Greenmarket or stroll over Gramercy Park. With rates beginning at $96 per night for a double room with a shared bathroom, you’ll have plenty of money left over to visit a neighborhood diner for breakfast or grab a pint at a local pub to cap off your day.

Read full review.

Toast your vacation from the rooftop terrace of Pod 51.

Pod 51 Hotel

From $85

The rooms may be tiny (think boat cabin size) at this 3-star Midtown East hotel, but they are very efficient and well designed. Standard double rooms with a private bath begin at an incredibly low rate of $85 per night. You can walk to Grand Central Terminal or the United Nations or hop on the express bus just outside the door to go downtown to the East Village. Plus, how many budget hotels come with a stunning skyline view from the rooftop deck!

Read full review.

More hotel suggestions

Would you like to read more about cheap hotels in Manhattan? Check out all of our picks in our New York hotel guide.

The post New York City: 5 Super cheap hotels in Manhattan appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

In fact, even in the city’s most popular areas, you can find nice accommodations that won’t break the bank—and because these cheap hotels tend to be small outfits, they often offer homey charms or funky quirks that will make your stay even more memorable.

Here, the best cheap hotels in New York, by neighborhood.

Once a palace for Broadway royalty, the Mayfair maintains hints of its former glamour. Photo: The Mayfair

Broadway and Times Square: Mayfair New York Hotel

Doubles from $100

Bustling Times Square is often top on the lists of visitors to New York, and although many locals avoid its chaos, the area has a lot to offer as a home base: It’s central, well connected for transport, and then there are those bright lights of Broadway.

For that reason, it’s also chock-full of overpriced hotels, but there are a few gems in the mix that will let you sleep in the action and still be able to afford tickets to a show. Formerly a haunt of Broadway starlets, the Mayfair today is a bit frayed around the edges, but it’s also a comfortable, friendly, affordable sleep—and one that shares a block from two Broadway theaters.

The Hotel 17 enjoys an enviable location in the quiet of Gramercy and near busy Union Square. Photo: Hotel 17

Union Square: Hotel 17

Doubles from $79

Not only is Union Square an incredibly central and convenient home base (within walking distance of some the city’s most popular areas and with access to myriad major subway lines), but it’s also an attraction in itself—home to a fabulous Farmers Market, a Christmas Market around the holidays and great people-watching throughout the year.

Tucked away among the Victorian mansions of tony Gramercy Park, the Hotel 17 offers a quiet respite with cozy, old-fashioned rooms (and shared bathrooms) within blocks of the action. On your way to Union Square you can stop for a stroll along Irving Place, a charming street lined with restaurants and cafés (stop for a treat or affordable lunch at Irving Farm Coffee Roasters).

The Hotel @ Times Square is a friendly Midtown base. Photo: Hotel @ Times Square

Rockefeller Center: The Hotel @ Times Square

Doubles from $119

While it’s only a few blocks from Times Square, The Hotel @ Times Square is actually closer to Rockefeller Center than it is to its eponymous attraction. A straightforward hotel with a few fun details (like a historic letter shoot and free breakfast) is a great base for exploring all things Midtown, including Grand Central Terminal, Bryant Park, Radio City Music Hall and the Museum of Modern Art.

The SoHotel has a cool vibe to go along with its cool location. Photo: SoHotel

Soho: SoHotel

Doubles from $100

Centered in the beating heart of Downtown Manhattan, the SoHotel is a cheery spot with exposed-brick walls and pops of color. From here you have easy access to the shops of Soho and the nightlife and restaurants of the Lower East Side, plus Little Italy and Chinatown.

The Comfort Inn Central Park West places you within steps of Central Park. Photo: Comfort Inn

Central Park: Comfort Inn Central Park West

Doubles from $89

It may not be high on style, but what it lacks in atmosphere the Comfort Inn Central Park West makes up for in location. Situated just off of Central Park, the budget hotel is surrounded by the opulent homes of the Upper West Side, as well as major attractions like Lincoln Center, the American Museum of Natural History and the New York Historical Society. The quiet, tree-lined streets will give you a taste of living like a local, and there are many great restaurants nearby too.

The post New York: Best budget hotels in popular neighborhoods appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Like any, well, mythical city, New York is the subject of many an idea that is not necessarily true.

Here’s the down-low on some of the common misconceptions about New York City.

New York City Travel Myths

1. New York is Times Square

The vibrant lights of Times Square are often the first thing non-New Yorkers think of when they picture the Big Apple, but the busy, iconic area is actually only a tiny microcosm in a city of riverside promenades, picturesque tree-lined streets and rustic brick. In fact, although Times Square is indeed a sight to behold, most New Yorkers sidestep it whenever possible — its mascot Elmos and Spidermen, flashing lights, chain restaurants and sky-high billboards feel like a sort of Disneyland surrounded by the “real” city.

So, while you should definitely snap some photos and catch a Broadway show, and while there are even some affordable hotel options in the area, be sure also to get out of Midtown to enjoy the historic Lower East Side or the maze of picturesque streets that is the West Village.

Related: Budget-friendly, non-chain hotels near Times Square

New Yorkers are always ready to offer directions, recommendations, or even hugs. Photo: federicoravassard

2. New Yorkers are mean

There is a general cultural understanding (outside of NYC) that New Yorkers as a rough bunch. However, that couldn’t be farther from the truth. When I first moved to New York, visions of irritated tough guys and cutthroat tycoons shouting and pushing and jostling for space in my head, I was amazed every time (and it was often at first) someone stopped me on the street to ask if I needed help finding something. And I very quickly learned that residents of this city are some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet.

It’s true that New Yorkers are often frenzied — a rush-hour subway crush can drive anyone mad — but on the whole New Yorkers are helpful, supportive, and oh-so-open. My theory has always been that because so many of us are transplants from somewhere else, we are extra open to meeting new people, and because we know what it’s like to be new to (or lost) here, we love to give back when we finally know what’s up. Plus, we’re proud of this fabulous mecca in which we live, and we love to show it off — so don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation or ask for recommendations. Chances are, you’ll end up with some unexpected sights to see, surprising places to eat or possibly even a new friend.

3. New York is unsafe

Like any big city, New York has its share of unsavory characters, but the crime-rampant, graffiti-laden city of the ’70s and ’80s (and often of Hollywood) is largely cleaned up. Yes, you’ll want to be watchful over your belongings and aware when out at night (as you should always). However, come 2019 results crime levels in New York were at historic lows, and New York was ranked the third safest large city in the United States. To put that in more personal terms, as a female resident of New York, I feel completely comfortable walking around at night or taking the subway, which tends to be well-populated until around 3 am.

Enjoy the great collections at The Morgan and other museums on their free days. Photo: sfbart

4. New York is expensive

True and not true. Real estate in New York famously comes at a premium, and travel here can feel extravagant as well. But that does not mean that it’s impossible to enjoy New York a la Cheapo. In fact, the city can even be frugal-friendly if you’re smart about it. The beauty of restaurants on every block is that many serve up delicious fare sans outrageous prices, and there are all manner of local markets and food stalls that also offer great bargain meals.

Entertainment-wise, many of the city’s famous sights are free, and even those things that can often run up the tab — think museums and Broadway — can be had for a song (or nearly). There are many options for snagging bargain Broadway tickets, and most museums have at least one free or pay-what-you-wish day of the week. As for the city’s famously high hotel rates, that depends on where you stay. There are plenty of affordable (and lovely) options all over the city.

Related: Free tours in New York City

5. All New Yorkers are fashionistas

No, it is not required to dress like you just stepped off the set of Sex and the City. New York is indeed a fashion lover’s cream puff, but in a city so large, anything goes. You’re just as likely (possibly more so) to see faded tees and Toms as you are to see haute couture ensembles. Like everything else in New York, fashion is often an experience, so you’re also likely to see some pretty outrageous looks. 

Believe it or not, the other boroughs are just as interesting as Manhattan (plus, they have views). Photo: Aleks Ivic

6. Everything is in Manhattan

Even those who know that Times Square is not the most accurate representation of New York are often prone to thinking that Manhattan is New York. But spending all of your time in Manhattan means you’re missing out on a number of wonders the rest of the city has to offer.

New York City is actually the name for five distinct boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island. And each borough has its own distinct flavor and its own sights to see. Greenery lovers, for example, should venture up to the New York Botanic Garden in the Bronx, while Queens is great for cute neighborhoods and great Greek food. And Brooklyn these days is a destination in its own right, with a surge of arts and restaurants and parks that may even give Manhattan a run for its money.

Related: Our favorite budget hotels in Brooklyn

Walking, biking, and public transit tend to be easier than cabs. Photo: J Blough

7. Everyone takes cabs

Yellow cabs and ride-hailing companies like Uber are ubiquitous in Manhattan, but they are far from the best way to get around. For one, they can often be hard to flag down or summon on your app, especially during peak hours, but more importantly, every cab journey is only as good as the traffic on your route, so a cab ride can often take longer — and cost far more — than a subway ride would. Plus, all the starting and stopping can often, no joke, leave you feeling a little sick.

My favorite way to get around New York (weather and time permitting) is walking, as it affords so many more experiences and ways to interact with the city. Beyond that, New York public transit is efficient, affordable, and oh-so-easy. The subway can zip you just about anywhere, and buses are a great option as well.

The post New York is Times Square and 6 other myths busted appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.