Best overall answer
Most first-timers should start with Midtown, NoMad or the Upper West Side. Midtown is the simplest for sightseeing, NoMad feels more grown-up while staying central, and the Upper West Side works well for families who want calmer evenings.
When Times Square makes sense
Times Square is useful for Broadway, short breaks and travellers who want recognisable New York immediately outside the door. It is also busy, bright and tourist-heavy, so it is not automatically the best New York hotel area.
What UK travellers often miss
New York attractions are spread out. No hotel is walking distance from everything, so being near the right subway lines is usually more valuable than being next to one single landmark.
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.
Hotel Beacon
- Best for
- Families, roomier stays, kitchenette convenience
- Avoid if
- You want nightlife on the doorstep or a design-led luxury hotel.
- Nearest subway
- 72 St nearby
- Booking notes
- Check kitchenette, sofa-bed and bed-type details; these matter more than star rating for families.
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 Midtown best for a first New York trip?
Usually, yes. Midtown gives first-timers easy access to Broadway, Bryant Park, Fifth Avenue, Grand Central, subway lines and classic sightseeing routes.
Should I stay in Times Square on my first visit?
Stay in or near Times Square if Broadway and convenience matter most. Choose NoMad, Midtown East or the Upper West Side if you want a calmer base.
How many nights should first-timers stay?
Four nights is a strong first-trip length from the UK. Three nights works for a focused city break, while five or more lets you add Brooklyn or downtown days.
Sources and update notes
Last updated: 17 August 2026. Hotel rates, fees, rules and transport details can change.