Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit New York City is from late spring to early fall. During this period, the city awakens to a symphony of events, from outdoor concerts and festivals to cultural exhibitions and Broadway shows, ensuring there is never a dull moment. On top of that, the weather is pleasantly mild, which makes it perfect for exploring iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Central Park. While accommodation prices may peak during summer, the bustling atmosphere and plethora of activities more than make up for it. However, if you are seeking a quieter experience with more affordable lodging, consider visiting The Big Apple in the shoulder seasons of spring or fall when crowds thin, and accommodation prices dip slightly. Ultimately, the best time to visit New York City depends on your preferences, but whenever you choose to go, the city promises an unforgettable adventure.

Passport / Visa

Citizens of the Schengen countries, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and the Kingdom of Brunei can visit the United States for up to 90 days without applying for a visa (as well as citizens of Andorra, Lichtenstein, Monaco and San Marino). Citizens of these countries must obtain an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before traveling. All other travelers must obtain a visa before visiting the United States. International travelers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the country.

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

New York is served by three major airports and JFK is the most well-known one of them all. You can take public transportation or taxis to Manhattan from all airports. There is a flat-rate taxi fare from JFK to Manhattan, but there are also subway and public transport options. To reach the stops for public transport, you need to use the AirTrain in most cases. The metro from JFK to Midtown Manhattan takes approximately 60-75 minutes. There are also different bus services. The local transport company MTA operates several lines going to nearby neighborhoods. The fare is the same as for the metro. The NYC Airporter is a direct bus line from JFK to Grand Central Station and Penn Station. The journey takes approx. 60 minutes depending on traffic. You can buy tickets online or at the NYC Airporter counter inside the airport.

• Web:

  www.jfkairport.com

• Address:

  John F. Kennedy International Airport

• Phone:

  +1 718 244 4444

LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

This is the airport located closest to Manhattan, which means you can choose from multiple means of transportation to get to the city. There are public buses as well as the shuttle, NYC Airporter, that go directly between the airport and Port Authority Bus Terminal, Grand Central Station, and Penn Station. Taxis and vans are also available at the taxi rank outside the terminal building.

• Web:

  www.laguardiaairport.com

• Address:

  LaGuardia Airport

• Phone:

  +1 212 435 7000

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

Newark Liberty International Airport is located in New Jersey and from here you can choose to take a taxi, train, or bus to go to the city. If a taxi is your choice of transport, you will find cars waiting outside the arrival hall. It takes approximately 35 minutes to New York City. There is an AirTrain, transporting passengers from the arrivals hall to the trains (NJ TRANSIT or Amtrak train). It takes approximately 45 minutes from the airport to Penn Station. The Newark Airport Express bus takes about 50 minutes and it stops at Grand Central Station, Bryant Park, and the Port Authority Bus Terminal.

• Web:

  www.newarkairport.com

• Address:

  Newark Liberty International Airport

• Phone:

  +1 973 961 6000

Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout the city. You can hail a yellow cab on almost any street corner. Keep in mind that there are nighttime and rush hour surcharges, and remember to leave a tip. Also, Manhattan has very long streets and avenues so it’s important to know both the address and the cross street of your destination. A taxi is vacant if the yellow light on top of the car is completely lit. Ride-sharing services like Uber, Lyft, Curb, and Myle offer convenient alternatives, especially late at night or in areas with limited public transportation options.