Goedkoop naar new york Cheap to new york Günstig nach New York to New York on a budget

To New York on a budget: Tips and information

May 4, 2025 New York Info Comments Off

Want to get to New York on a budget? Then you’ve come to the right place. In this blog, we share practical tips, smart choices and affordable options. From flights and hotels to food and free attractions. Everything to make your dream trip to New York possible. Read on and find out how you can Visit New York on a budget.

Can you get to New York on a budget?

Yes, going to New York on a budget is definitely possible. Although the city is known to be pricey, you can save quite a bit with proper preparation. Consider booking early, traveling off-season and making smart use of advantage passes. There are also plenty of free activities. With the right approach, New York is surprisingly affordable. Here are our first tips:

1. Book your flight months in advance

2. Choose a budget hotel

3. Use free hiking trails

4. Visit free attractions (see below)

How many days should you go to New York?

If you want to get the most out of your trip, we recommend staying in New York for at least four days. In four days you can visit the most famous neighborhoods explore, a few museums visit a few museums and really soak up the atmosphere of the city. If you have less than four days, it can feel like you want to do too much in too little time. Four days will give you time to explore and enjoy everything quietly without feeling rushed.

What is the cheapest period to go to New York?

The best months for traveling on a budget to New York are January, February and November. During these periods, airfare and hotels are often considerably cheaper. It is also quieter in the city, which makes for a pleasant travel experience. Avoid school vacations and holidays, as that’s when prices skyrocket. Tips: Book your stay just after Thanksgiving ( Every fourth Thursday in November ) for extra savings.

What is the cheapest way to fly to New York on a budget?

The cheapest way to fly to New York on a budget is to be flexible. Use comparison sites such as Booking.com, Skyscanner or Google Flights, book well in advance and choose Tuesday or Wednesday departures.

What are the nicest affordable hotels in New York?

There are plenty of nice and affordable hotels for those who want to go to New York on a budget. Think The Pod Hotels, Hotel, the New Yorker, or the cozy Hotel Edison in Times Square. They are clean, well located and perfect for travelers on a smaller budget. Our tips for these hotels are based on location, comfort and value for money.

We have written a separate blog with a complete list of the nicest affordable hotels in New York. Want to know which ones suit you best? Then click on the link below.

What is the cheapest way to travel in New York?

The subway remains the cheapest and fastest way to get around in New York. Nowadays you use the OMNY system: you pay contactless with a debit card, credit card or digital wallet (such as Apple Pay or Google Pay). If you make 12 trips within a week, you automatically pay no more than $34 – after that, you travel for free for the rest of the week. This clever “fare cap” replaces the old MetroCard system. In addition, much of New York is easily accessible on foot, which saves even more money and helps you really experience the city. Our tips: walk as much as possible and use the subway for longer distances.

Free activities in New York

New York offers a surprising number of free attractions. Here are ten fun things that cost you absolutely nothing, with a brief description:

1. Central Park – A huge city park where you can walk, bike or just relax on a bench.

2. Brooklyn Bridge – Walk across this iconic bridge and enjoy the stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.

3. Times Square – The vibrant heart of New York with light displays, street performers and atmosphere, especially at night.

4. The High Line – An elevated urban park built on an old railroad line, full of art and views of the city.

5. Staten Island Ferry – A free ferry service with views of the skyline as well as the Statue of Liberty.

6. Grand Central Terminal – A beautiful historic train station with impressive architecture and a starry sky on the ceiling.

7. Bryant Park – Small but cozy city park that often hosts free events and movies.

8. Chelsea Market (just looking around) – You don’t have to buy anything to enjoy the atmosphere and architecture of this food hall.

9. New York Public Library – An impressive building, both inside and out, with marble staircases and reading rooms.

10. 9/11 Memorial (outdoor area) – An impressive and sober place to reflect on the events of Sept. 11.

These tips will help you get a lot out of your trip, at no extra cost. Don’t forget your smartphone or camera!

Which New York pass allows you to visit sights cheaply?

The best pass for cheap sightseeing access is the New York CityPASS. This discount pass is ideal for people who want to visit New York for the first time on a budget. You get admission to the Empire State Building, the 9/11 Museum and the American Museum of Natural History, among others. You save up to 40% compared to single tickets. Tip: buy the pass in advance online for extra savings.

Cheap internet in New York: internet connection tips

Although there is almost everywhere free wifi available in New York – such as in parks, cafes and even subway stations – it is convenient and safer to use an eSIM. That way you’re always connected, even on the go.

We have written an extensive blog about which eSIM is the best and cheapest for those who want to go to New York cheaply. Want to be worry-free online during your trip? Read the blog via the link below.

Where can you eat cheaply in New York? Tips for delicious and inexpensive dining

Good food doesn’t have to be expensive in New York. You can go anywhere for affordable options such as:

1. $1 pizza slices

2. Halal food trucks

3. Street food at markets

4. Simple dinners in Queens or Brooklyn

5. Cheap places to eat in Chinatown or Little Italy

These tips will help you eat varied and inexpensive, without sacrificing taste or ambiance.

Our opinion: can you really get to New York on the cheap?

Yes, you certainly can. With the right preparation, smart bookings and good use of passes and budget options, an affordable trip to New York really is possible. Of course there are costs, but with the right choices, you’ll enjoy yourself to the fullest without going deep into your pockets. On a budget to New York? It’s not a dream, but a well-planned adventure with the right choices.

Edward and Raziye

Authors New York Info

Special offers for a city trip to New York

Are you going on a city break to New York and would like to visit some of the sights and attractions? With the offers below you can save money on your entrance tickets and make your city trip even more affordable. So you can enjoy all the highlights without exceeding your budget.