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New York is one of the most visited cities in the world in United States. It brings together culture, business, and entertainment in one place. People travel here for work, sightseeing, shopping, or simply to experience the city’s famous streets and skyline. To keep up with this demand, New York uses three main airports: LaGuardia (LGA), John F. Kennedy (JFK), and Newark Liberty (EWR). Each airport offers different flight routes and ground transport options.
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is New York’s busiest airport and the main hub for international flights. Opened in 1948, it serves major routes from Europe, Asia, and South America. With six terminals, JFK offers a wide range of dining, shopping, and lounge options, including services for long-haul travelers and premium passengers.
LaGuardia Airport (LGA) mostly handles domestic flights within the U.S. Located in Queens, it has seen major upgrades in recent years, with modern terminals, improved dining, and more comfortable waiting areas. It’s a popular choice for travelers flying to and from major U.S. cities. LaGuardia Airport (LGA) is the closest airport to New York, located just 13 kilometers from Midtown Manhattan.
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) opened in 1928 and serves both domestic and international routes. It’s a major hub for transatlantic flights and is often used by travelers heading to Europe. Newark also offers a full range of amenities, including lounges, restaurants, and duty-free shopping.
Best Airport to Fly into New York
Distances from Midtown Manhattan:
John F. Kennedy (JFK) is about 26 kilometers from Midtown Manhattan, with a typical transfer time of 60 to 90 minutes.
LaGuardia (LGA) is around 13 kilometers away, and the transfer usually takes 30 to 60 minutes.
Newark Liberty (EWR) sits about 25 kilometers from Midtown, with travel times ranging from 40 to 70 minutes.
Image by Jon Flobrant via Unsplash
What Is the Best Airport to Fly Into New York
New York has three main airports that serve millions of travellers each year: LaGuardia (LGA), John F. Kennedy (JFK), and Newark Liberty (EWR). All three connect the city to the rest of the world and offer different benefits depending on your flight, travel plans, and location in the city. So, what is the best airport to fly into New York?
- JFK is ideal for international travel or when the most flight options are needed.
- LGA is best suited for domestic travel and offers the quickest access to Manhattan.
- EWR provides a balance of domestic and international flights, along with good rail access to Manhattan.
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
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John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is in Queens, about 15 miles from Manhattan, and is the closest airport to Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Long Island. It has six terminals connected by the AirTrain and is New York’s main hub for international travel, especially long-haul flights to Europe.
With over 60 million travelers a year, JFK offers the most global airline and destination options in North America. It’s a popular choice for flights from cities like London and for those staying in Brooklyn neighborhoods like Park Slope or Fort Greene. It’s less ideal for Upper Manhattan, as travel time can be long—up to two hours to Times Square during rush hour.
The airport features a range of dining, shopping, and services like Wi-Fi, luggage storage, and CLEAR security lanes. Both budget and premium airlines operate here, and food options include Shake Shack and Uptown Brasserie by chef Marcus Samuelsson.
Nearby hotels range from airport-connected options like the TWA Hotel to nearby places like Hilton New York JFK, Crowne Plaza JFK, and Fairfield Inn by Marriott.
JFK Airport: Ups & Downs
So, How do you get from John F. Kennedy Airport to New York City Centre? There are several ways to travel from JFK to Manhattan, including the AirTrain with subway transfer, Long Island Rail Road, airport shuttle, taxi, and private car service. Ride-hailing apps like Waymo, Uber and Lyft also operate at JFK, but they often receive complaints about long wait times, high fares during peak hours, and poor service during delays. Taking private JFK Airport car service to Manhattan is one of the easiest and most convenient ways to get to your destination in New York.
Shuttle Bus from John F. Kennedy Airport to New York
Journey Time: The shuttle ride from John F. Kennedy Airport (JFK) to New York City takes about 45 minutes. Shared shuttle vans pick up travelers from all terminals at the airport and then head toward the city. The van makes several stops depending on each passenger’s destination, so the trip might take longer if there are many drop-offs.
Key Point: Your transfer begins at JFK Airport. You’ll find the shared shuttle pick-up area right outside each terminal. GO Airlink NYC runs shared shuttles to Manhattan. These vans collect passengers from every terminal before driving into the city.
The shuttle does not go straight to your stop. It drops people off one by one, starting with the closest location. If you're trying to get somewhere fast, this ride may take longer than other transport options.
Shuttle Fare from John F. Kennedy Airport to New York
The cost for a shared shuttle from JFK to Manhattan is about $29 (€26) per person.
Subway from John F. Kennedy Airport to New York
Journey Time: The subway trip from JFK Airport to New York City takes about 50 minutes. You will travel using both the AirTrain JFK and the New York City Subway.
Key Point: You will begin your trip at JFK Airport. From your terminal, take the AirTrain JFK. This train runs 24 hours a day and connects all terminals. The AirTrain takes you to two main subway stations: Jamaica Station or Howard Beach.
At Jamaica Station, switch to subway line E. This train heads toward Midtown Manhattan. You can get off at 50 St station, which is near Times Square, Rockefeller Center, and the Plaza.
Or, take the AirTrain to Howard Beach Station. There, board subway line A. This train goes toward Lower Manhattan. You can reach places like Union Square and Washington Square Park.
These subway trains run all day and night. During busy hours, they come every 3 to 8 minutes. At other times, you might wait a bit longer.
This trip does not take you straight to your hotel or apartment. You may have to walk or take another ride after the subway. Carrying luggage can be hard, especially after a long flight or with small children. Most subway stations do not have full wheelchair access.
Subway Fare from John F. Kennedy Airport to New York
The total cost for the subway and AirTrain trip John F. Kennedy Airport to New York is about $11.40 (€10.20) per person.
Train from John F. Kennedy Airport to New York
Journey Time: The full trip from JFK Airport to Penn Station in Manhattan takes about 35 minutes. There is no train that starts at the airport, so the trip begins with a short ride on the AirTrain.
Key Point: Start at JFK Airport. From the terminal, take the AirTrain JFK to Jamaica Station. This ride runs all day and night and connects you directly to the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR).
At Jamaica Station, board any westbound LIRR train on the Babylon, Port Jefferson, Long Beach, or Ronkonkoma lines. These trains go straight to Penn Station in Midtown Manhattan. The trains come every 10 to 15 minutes during busy hours. Late at night, you might wait up to an hour.
After arriving at Penn Station, you can walk to places like the Empire State Building or Bryant Park. Subway lines and buses are also nearby if you need to keep going.
Train Fare from John F. Kennedy Airport to New York
The full fare John F. Kennedy Airport to New York is about $16.75 (€15) per person.
Taxi from John F. Kennedy Airport to New York
Journey Time: The taxi ride from JFK Airport to New York City takes about 35 minutes. Travel time can be longer during busy hours.
Key Point: You can get a cab from the official taxi stand outside each terminal at JFK Airport. The line for cabs can get very long, especially during peak hours. Taxis run all year and all day, but the wait can take extra time.
Taxis charge a fixed rate from JFK to Manhattan. During weekday peak hours from 16:00 to 20:00, there is a $5 (€4.50) extra fee. This fee does not apply on public holidays.
For less waiting, you can choose to book a JFK black car service at AirportTransfer.com in advance.
Taxi Fare from John F. Kennedy Airport to New York
The taxi transfer from JFK to Manhattan costs about €80. There is an extra €4.50 ($5) during weekday peak hours.
LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
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LaGuardia Airport (LGA) is in northern Queens, about 13 kilometers from Midtown Manhattan. It’s the closest airport to Neew York, Manhattan and a common pick for domestic flights, especially to and from major U.S. cities like Chicago, Atlanta, and Miami.
LGA handles more than 30 million passengers each year and recently completed a major terminal overhaul. Terminal B now features modern design, spacious seating areas, and better food options. Travelers heading to Manhattan’s East Side often choose LaGuardia for its short travel time—under 30 minutes without traffic.
The airport mainly serves domestic carriers such as Delta, American, and Southwest. Dining choices include local chains like Shake Shack and Irving Farm Coffee Roasters, along with full-service restaurants. Free Wi-Fi and updated restrooms are part of the terminal upgrades.
There are no hotels inside the airport, but several options stand within a short drive, including the LaGuardia Plaza Hotel, Aloft New York LaGuardia Airport, and Hampton Inn New York - LaGuardia.
LGA Airport: Ups & Downs
So, How do you get from LaGuardia Airport to New York City Centre? There are several ways to travel from LGA to Manhattan, including the subway, train, airport shuttle, taxi and private car service. Booking a private LaGuardia Airport car service in advance is the easiest and most comfortable way to travel.
Shuttle Bus from LaGuardia Airport to New York
Journey Time: The shuttle ride from New York LaGuardia Airport (LGA) to downtown New York takes about 19 minutes.
Key Point: You will begin the ride at LaGuardia Airport. The shuttle pick-up zone is right outside the terminal. Most shuttles stop for a few minutes to gather passengers heading into the city.
These shuttle buses travel directly to central New York, stopping along the way.
Shuttle Fare from LaGuardia Airport to New York
The price for the shuttle from LaGuardia to central New York usually ranges between $60 and $90 per person.
Train from LaGuardia Airport to New York
Journey Time: The total trip from LaGuardia Airport (LGA) to Penn Station in Manhattan takes about 35 minutes. There is no train at the airport, so the ride starts with a short bus trip before the train ride begins.
Key Point: Your trip will start at LaGuardia Airport. Go outside the terminal to find the Q70 LaGuardia Link bus. This bus runs often—every 8 to 15 minutes depending on the time of day. It has space for luggage and does not cost anything to ride.
The Q70 stops once before reaching Woodside Station. That bus ride takes about 25 minutes. From Woodside Station, board the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) train going to Penn Station in Midtown Manhattan. This train ride lasts about 10 minutes.
The train runs every 10 minutes during busy times and every 20 to 30 minutes when it’s slower. Once you get to Penn Station, you’ll find subway lines and buses to go anywhere else in the city.
Train Fare from LaGuardia Airport to New York
The train fare from LaGuardia Airport to New York is about $7.10 USD per person.
Subway from LaGuardia Airport to New York
Journey Time: The full trip from LaGuardia Airport (LGA) to Midtown Manhattan takes about 40 minutes. There is no subway stop at the airport. You will first take a short bus ride, then connect to the subway.
Key Point: Start at LaGuardia Airport. From the terminal, head to the LaGuardia Link Q70 bus stop. This bus is free and runs all day and night. It takes about 15 minutes to reach the Jackson Heights–Roosevelt Avenue station.
From Roosevelt Avenue, take one of the subway lines—E, F, R, or 7. These trains go straight into Midtown. The subway part of the ride takes about 25 minutes, not counting wait times. Both the Q70 bus and the subway run 24/7.
Subway Fare from LaGuardia Airport to New York
The total fare for the subway part of this trip is about $2.82 per person.
Taxi from LaGuardia Airport to New York
Journey Time: The taxi ride from LaGuardia Airport (LGA) to downtown New York usually takes about 30 minutes.
Key Point: Taxis wait outside the arrivals area at LaGuardia Airport. The taxi meter runs based on the distance traveled and time spent in traffic. Extra charges apply for trips at night, during busy hours, and for picking up passengers at the airport. You pay any road tolls that come up during your trip. Traffic can make the trip take longer and raise the final cost.
If you want a smoother experience, you can pre-book a private car transfer from LaGuardia to your destination.
Taxi Fare from LaGuardia Airport to New York
The base fare for a taxi ride is about $90, but the final price can increase with extra charges and traffic delays.
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
Adrian from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is in Newark, New Jersey, about 26 kilometers from Midtown Manhattan. It serves New York City, northern New Jersey, and parts of Pennsylvania. The airport has three terminals connected by the AirTrain for easy travel between them.
EWR is one of the busiest U.S. airports, with many domestic and international flights from major airlines. It’s a good choice for travelers going to downtown Manhattan or New Jersey suburbs.
Each terminal offers food, shops, free Wi-Fi, and car rentals. There are options for all budgets, from fast food to sit-down restaurants.
Nearby hotels include the Newark Liberty International Airport Marriott, the Hilton Newark Airport, and other accommodations within a short drive. The airport connects well to public transportation, including trains and buses that reach Manhattan and beyond.
EWR Airport: Ups & Downs
So, How do you get from Newark Airport to New York City Centre? There are several ways to travel from EWR to Manhattan, including the train, bus, taxi and private car service. The fastest and easiest way to travel from Newark Airport to Manhattan is by EWR private car transfer service.
Bus from Newark Liberty Airport to New York
Journey Time: The bus ride from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to Manhattan takes about 50 minutes. The trip time depends on traffic and can be longer during busy hours.
Key Point: You will start your trip at Newark Airport. The Newark Airport Express bus picks up passengers at every terminal. It stops at three main bus stations in New York City: Grand Central Station, Bryant Park, and the Port Authority Bus Terminal near Times Square.
The buses run between 5:30 AM and 10:45 PM every day. There is usually a 45-minute wait between buses.
Bus Fare from Newark Liberty Airport to New York
The ticket price for the Newark Airport Express bus from Newark Liberty Airport to New York costs about $22 per person.
Train from Newark Liberty Airport to New York
Journey Time: The trip from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to Penn Station in Manhattan takes about 50 minutes. There is no direct train from the airport to the city, so the trip starts with the AirTrain.
Key Point: Take the AirTrain from your terminal to Newark Liberty International Airport Station. This ride takes between 7 and 20 minutes depending on your terminal. The AirTrain runs every 3 to 5 minutes between 5:00 AM and 11:00 PM, and every 15 minutes outside these hours.
At Newark Liberty International Airport Station, board an NJ Transit train. You can take either the North Jersey Coast Line or the Northeast Corridor Line heading toward New York Penn Station. This train ride lasts about 30 minutes, including stops.
Once you arrive at Penn Station, you can transfer to subway lines 1, 2, 3, A, C, or E to reach your final destination. NJ Transit trains operate from 5:00 AM to 2:00 AM daily.
Train Fare from Newark Liberty Airport to New York
The full fare from Newark Liberty Airport to New York is about $16.60 per person.
Taxi from Newark Liberty Airport to New York
Journey Time: The taxi ride from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to New York City usually takes about 35 minutes.
Key Point: Taxis wait outside the arrivals area at Newark Airport. The taxi meter runs based on distance and time. The final price can increase if you travel during busy hours or on weekends. There is a $10 (€9) surcharge for rides during weekday peak times (6:00–10:00 AM and 3:00–8:00 PM) and weekend busy hours (12:00–9:00 PM).
On top of this, there is a $5 (€4.65) charge for trips to anywhere in New York State. The airport adds a $1.75 (€1.60) pickup fee. Fuel surcharges can add up to $15 (€13.90). Traffic may also increase the total fare.
If you want more ease, you can book a private limo transfer from Newark Airport at AirportTransfer.com to your destination.
Taxi Fare from Newark Liberty Airport to New York
The taxi fare from Newark Liberty Airport to New York is around $108, but extra fees for busy hours, airport pickup, fuel, and traffic can increase the total cost.
NYC Limo Transfers from New York Airports
New York Car Transfer - Private Service
New York offers more than bright lights and skyscrapers — from Central Park and Broadway to the diverse neighborhoods of Brooklyn and Queens, there’s always something to discover.
AirportTransfer.com provides a private car service in New York, operating from LaGuardia (LGA), John F. Kennedy (JFK), and Newark Liberty (EWR) airports to locations throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens, and Staten Island.
Our New York airport transfers offer direct New York pick up from LGA, JFK, or EWR and take you straight to your hotel, office, or any other address in the city. You can skip the long taxi lines and avoid rideshare apps like Uber, Lyft, or Waymo. You can choose the car type that suits your needs, including a New York black car or New York limo transfer, and complete your payment securely online.
All services include professional drivers and 7/24 customer support. You can cancel your ride up to 48 hours before your scheduled pickup and get a 100% refund. You can manage everything easily using the AirportTransfer App from the Google Play Store or Airport Taxi Transfer App Store.
Private New York Black Car Service
Bus Transfers to New York from Group Travel
At AirportTransfer.com, we provide private shuttle buses in New York for all types of group travel. NYC offers endless opportunities for groups to explore together: You can see landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and Central Park; visit top museums; catch a Broadway show; or enjoy a sports game. From local food spots to skyline views, the city has it all—let us drive while you explore.
Direct bus charter service in New York is available from LaGuardia (LGA), John F. Kennedy (JFK), and Newark Liberty (EWR) airports to hotels, venues, stadiums, and attractions across all five boroughs. Our drivers take you straight to your destination in NYC without any transfers or delays, making your group travel much easier.
All fares are set in advance. You won’t see any surprise costs or last-minute price changes. If your group needs a NYC private shuttle from any New York airport or you have special requests, our team will help arrange your transfer and choose the right bus based on your group size and route. You can contact us to arrange your group transfer from New York.
Bus Charter Service in New York from Airports
New York Hotel Transfers
Traveling to a bustling city like New York can be overwhelming, but AirportTransfer.com makes it easier with private New York hotel transfers from LaGuardia (LGA), John F. Kennedy (JFK), and Newark Liberty (EWR) airports. A professional driver meets you right at the terminal and takes you directly to your hotel in a private, air-conditioned shuttle. With no shared rides, no vehicle changes, and no extra stops, the service is designed for a smooth, stress-free journey.
Hotels in Manhattan
The Plaza, The Peninsula New York, Park Lane New York, Lotte New York Palace, Conrad New York Midtown, The Langham Fifth Avenue, JW Marriott Essex House, InterContinental New York Times Square, and New York Marriott Marquis.
Here are also some convenient hotel options near each major New York airport:
Near LaGuardia Airport (LGA), you’ll find Aloft New York LaGuardia Airport, LaGuardia Plaza Hotel, Hampton Inn New York - LaGuardia, Marriott New York LaGuardia Airport, and SpringHill Suites by Marriott New York LaGuardia.
Close to John F. Kennedy Airport (JFK), popular choices are the TWA Hotel at JFK Airport, Crowne Plaza JFK Airport, Radisson Hotel JFK Airport, Hilton New York JFK Airport, and Fairfield Inn by Marriott JFK Airport.
Near Newark Liberty Airport (EWR), you can find Marriott Newark Airport, Hilton Newark Airport, Renaissance Newark Airport Hotel, SpringHill Suites Newark Airport, and Holiday Inn Newark Airport
NYC Hotel Transfers with Chauffeured Service