JFK works well for most UK routes
JFK has strong UK flight coverage and public transport via AirTrain to Jamaica or Howard Beach. It suits Midtown, NoMad, Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn if you plan the route.
Newark can be excellent for west-side Manhattan
Newark is often convenient for Times Square, Hell's Kitchen, Chelsea and Penn Station-area hotels. Public transport usually means AirTrain plus NJ Transit.
Late arrivals change the answer
With children, heavy luggage or a late arrival, a licensed taxi or pre-booked car can be worth more than the theoretical public-transport saving.
Hotel mini reviews
Shortlist these hotels first.
The Fifth Avenue Hotel
- Best for
- Design-led luxury, couples, special occasions
- Avoid if
- You want the cheapest central room or a pure Times Square theatre base.
- Nearest subway
- 23 St / 28 St area, depending on line
- Booking notes
- Compare refundable rates and breakfast-inclusive options; this is a hotel where room category matters.
Arlo SoHo
- Best for
- Repeat visitors, downtown food, compact-value stays
- Avoid if
- You need large rooms, family space or daily Midtown sightseeing convenience.
- Nearest subway
- Canal St / Spring St area
- Booking notes
- Look closely at room size and bed setup; compact rooms can be a fair trade for the location.
Riu Plaza New York Times Square
- Best for
- Broadway, first trips, simple sightseeing logistics
- Avoid if
- You want quiet residential streets or boutique character.
- Nearest subway
- Times Square-42 St / 50 St area
- Booking notes
- Useful for theatre-heavy trips; compare final totals because central hotels can add fees and deposits.
Fast answers
Questions UK travellers ask before booking.
Is JFK or Newark better for Manhattan?
Both can work. Newark often suits west-side Midtown; JFK is a common choice for UK flights and works well with AirTrain plus LIRR or subway.
How much is JFK AirTrain?
The official JFK AirTrain single-ride fare is $8.75 when entering or exiting at Jamaica or Howard Beach, before subway or rail fares.
Should I take a taxi from JFK?
A taxi can be sensible after an overnight flight, especially with family luggage. JFK taxis to Manhattan use a flat fare plus tolls, tip and surcharges.
Sources and update notes
Last updated: 17 August 2026. Hotel rates, fees, rules and transport details can change.