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Manhattan is the smallest and most densely populated of New York City’s five boroughs, coextensive with New York County the smallest by area in the state of NYC. Mostly located on Manhattan Island, it forms the core of the New York metropolitan area and serves as the city’s economic, administrative, and cultural center. Often called the world’s capital of finance, media, and entertainment, Manhattan also plays a leading role in shaping global trends. As one of the most iconic urban centers in the USA, it anchors the Northeast megalopolis and remains a symbol of American ambition, diversity, and innovation.
Traveling from New York’s airports to Manhattan opens the door to exploring some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Whether your journey takes you to 28 Liberty Street in the heart of the Financial District, the sleek 30 Hudson Yards, or the tech hub at 111 Eighth Avenue, reliable airport transfers ensure a smooth start. Business visitors often head to the towering Citigroup Center, the eco-friendly Bank of America Tower, or the bustling 55 Water Street. For a blend of history and commerce, the MetLife Building, Rockefeller Center, and Wall Street are must-see stops, while the World Trade Center offers a poignant reminder of resilience. Leisure travelers can enjoy the green expanse of Central Park or the cultural flavors of Chinatown New York, all easily accessible with efficient transportation from JFK, LaGuardia, or Newark Airport.
Image by Adrian from Pixabay
Famous Main Streets in Manhattan
Manhattan is home to some of the world’s most iconic streets. Broadway runs from north to south and is known for its theaters. Fifth Avenue is lined with upscale shops and museums. Wall Street, in the Financial District, symbolizes global finance. Park Avenue is home to towering office buildings.
St. Mark’s Place in the East Village is lively with food, music, and local shops, while Canal Street in Chinatown is known for bargain shopping and street vendors. Each street offers a unique look into Manhattan’s diversity.
Central Park offers a peaceful green space in the middle of the city. The Statue of Liberty stands just off the southern tip, a symbol of freedom. Times Square dazzles with lights and Broadway shows. Chinatown brings the flavors and culture of Asia. Wall Street remains a powerhouse of global finance.
Image by Susanne Weitzhofer from Pixabay
Neighborhoods of Manhattan
Manhattan's neighborhoods each have a distinct vibe:
- Washington Heights and Inwood offer parks, culture, and history. Harlem has rich musical and culinary roots.
- The Upper East Side boasts museums and luxury living. Koreatown near Herald Square is packed with food and shops.
- Greenwich Village and the West Village charm with narrow streets and cafés. SoHo and NoHo attract artists and shoppers. Battery Park City provides waterfront views. Union Square and the Flatiron District combine open space and busy streets.
- Times Square is always buzzing. Little Italy offers authentic Italian cuisine. Chelsea blends art galleries with modern development. Hell’s Kitchen, near the theater district, is a food lover’s spot. Roosevelt Island, sitting in the East River, gives unique views of Manhattan.
Manhattan offers endless things to see and do: Walk in Central Park, catch a Broadway show, shop along Fifth Avenue, explore small stores in SoHo, or enjoy food in Chinatown and Little Italy. Tour Wall Street, snap photos in Times Square, or take a ferry to see the Statue of Liberty. Before you plan your visit, check the weather Manhattan to dress comfortably. Every street brings something new—music, food, art, or quiet moments.
If you want to do it all, getting to Manhattan is simple thanks to New York City’s three main airports: JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark. When searching for the Best Airport to New York, each of these offers different options to reach Manhattan, including trains, express bus, yellow taxis, and private taxi services. Travel time depends on traffic and the time of day, but all routes lead you into the heart of the city.
Image by Pexels from Pixabay
What Is the Best Airport to Fly Into Manhattan?
New York has three main airports that serve millions of travelers 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, which airport is the best to fly into Manhattan?
LaGuardia Airport (LGA) is the closest airport to Midtown Manhattan, located just about 8 miles (13 kilometers) away. Getting from LaGuardia to Manhattan takes between 20 and 30 minutes.
Private LGA car services are the fastest and most comfortable option, especially if you’re heading from LaGuardia Airport to Times Square or SoHo.
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is the city’s main international hub, located about 16 miles (26 kilometers) from Midtown Manhattan. Getting from JFK Airport to Manhattan takes 45 to 60 minutes.
For the most comfort and speed, especially if you're heading from JFK Airport to Chinatown New York, private JFK limo transfers are your best bet.
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is located about 16 miles (26 kilometers) from Midtown Manhattan and offers a solid balance between domestic and international flights. Traveling from Newark Airport to Manhattan takes around 35 to 50 minutes.
A private EWR transfer is often the most convenient choice—especially if you're traveling with luggage or heading from Newark Airport to Hell’s Kitchen.
Laguardia Airport First Class Service to Manhattan
How to get from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan?
There are several ways to travel from LaGuardia (LGA) to Manhattan, including Q70 buses with subway connections, airport shuttles, taxis and ride-hailing, private car services and private helicopter transfers. Bus and subway option can be time-consuming, especially with luggage or during busy travel times. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber, Lyft, Free Now, and Waymo are available curbside but may experience surge pricing and long wait times during peak hours.
Pre-booking a private LaGuardia Airport VIP Car Service to Manhattan is the most comfortable and efficient option, ideal for avoiding transfers or delays. For a first class VIP experience, it offers door-to-door service, comfort, and ease. How do you get from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan?
Bus from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan
Journey Time: The bus from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan takes about 30 to 45 minutes. You’ll first take the Q70 Select Bus Service (SBS), then transfer to either the subway or Long Island Rail Road (LIRR).
Key Point: The Q70 bus leaves from just outside each terminal at LaGuardia. It runs every 8 to 10 minutes, all day and all night. You can ride it to either Roosevelt Av/74 St or Woodside in Queens. At Roosevelt Av/74 St, you can switch to subway lines E, F, M, R, or 7. At Woodside, you can get on the LIRR to Penn Station in Manhattan.
The Q70 bus doesn’t stop between the airport and these two stations. If you're going to Queens, the East Side of Manhattan, or Times Square, the subway is a good match. If your hotel or destination is near Penn Station or on the West Side, the LIRR might work better.
You will need to change from the bus to a train. This can be a little tricky if you have large bags. Also, the LIRR costs more during busy travel times, especially during weekday mornings and evenings.Bus Fare from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan
The Q70 bus is free for everyone. That means you only pay for the subway or the LIRR. If you take the subway, your total cost is $2.90. If you take the LIRR, the full trip can cost between $5.25 and $8.25.
Subway or LIRR: The subway costs $2.90. You can tap a contactless credit card, phone, or OMNY card at the turnstile. Subways come every 4 to 12 minutes, depending on the line. The LIRR takes about 10 minutes from Woodside to Penn Station. The fare is between $5.25 and $8.25, depending on the time of day.
Taking a Bus from LaGuardia to Manhattan
Taxi from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan
Journey Time: The taxi from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan takes between 30 and 60 minutes. It can be much longer during rush hours.
Key Point: Taxis wait just outside each terminal at LaGuardia. Signs inside the airport show the way to the official taxi stand. At the “Taxi Dispatch Area,” an airport worker will point you to the next available cab. Yellow Cabs are always lined up, but you might wait a few minutes when it’s busy.
Every Yellow Cab has a meter. Unlike JFK Airport, there is no flat fee for the ride to Manhattan. The final cost depends on where you're going and how long the ride takes.
Taxi Fare from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan
The taxi price from LaGuardia to Manhattan falls between $100 and $125. Traffic, tolls, and tip affect the total fare. There is no fixed rate.
At LaGuardia Airport, you can take Uber or Lyft to Manhattan, but it can be expensive and slow in heavy traffic. Bolt and Waymo don’t offer rides in NYC yet, but Waymo has asked to test its self-driving cars with a safety driver.
Private Taxi Transfer from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan
Private LaGuardia taxi transfers to Manhattan take 30 to 60 minutes and run all day. For a first class transfer, your driver meets you outside the terminal with a name sign or pick-up details. Prices are $60 to $100, more for bigger cars.
Transfers at AirportTransfer.com are easy and reliable, perfect if you have luggage or kids. The driver waits for delays, prices are fixed, and you get a direct ride from LaGuardia Airport to Times Square or Hell's Kitchen with no stops.
Private Limo Service from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan
How to Get from JFK Airport to Manhattan?
You can get from JFK to Manhattan by AirTrain with the subway or LIRR, airport shuttles, taxis, ride-hailing apps, private cars, or even helicopters. AirTrain plus subway or LIRR can be slow and awkward with heavy bags or at rush hour, while taxis and apps like Uber, Lyft, and Waymo can have surge pricing and long waits.
Pre-booking a private JFK airport black car service to Manhattan is often the most comfortable and efficient option, perfect for avoiding transfers and potential delays. It provides a first class segment transfer, door-to-door experience with added comfort and convenience. So, How do you get from JFK Airport to Manhattan?
Subway from JFK Airport to Manhattan
Journey Time: The subway from JFK Airport to Manhattan takes about 60 to 75 minutes.
Key Point: From your terminal at JFK, take the AirTrain. This airport train stops at every terminal and parking area, then connects to the subway at two stations in Queens.
- Take the green AirTrain line to Howard Manhattan Beach for subway line A. This route works well if you’re going to Brooklyn, Downtown Manhattan, or the West Side.
- Take the red AirTrain line to Jamaica Station for subway lines E, J, or Z. This route is better for Midtown Manhattan, the East Side, or Queens.
AirTrains run every 7 to 15 minutes, all day and all night. Subways come every 4 to 12 minutes, depending on the line and time of day.
Subway Fare from JFK Airport to Manhattan
The total cost is $11.40. The AirTrain part is $8.50, and the subway fare is $2.90. You pay when leaving the AirTrain station at Howard Beach or Jamaica. Use a contactless credit card, phone, or OMNY card directly at the turnstile. OMNY cards are also sold at machines in the station and work across New York City.
You must transfer from the AirTrain to the subway. This can be tricky with large luggage. There is no fixed seat guarantee, and during peak hours, trains can be crowded.
Train from JFK Airport to Manhattan
Journey Time: The train from JFK Airport to Manhattan by train takes about 35 to 45 minutes.
Key Point: From your terminal at JFK, take the red AirTrain line to Jamaica Station. The AirTrain stops at every terminal and runs every 7 to 15 minutes all day and night. At Jamaica Station, follow the signs to the LIRR platforms and board a train to Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station in Manhattan. LIRR trains arrive every 5 to 30 minutes, depending on the time of day.
The LIRR ride to Penn Station takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Penn Station is in Midtown Manhattan, close to many hotels and subway connections.
You must transfer from the AirTrain to the LIRR. The LIRR costs more than the subway, and CityTicket discounts do not apply at all times.
Train Fare from JFK Airport to Manhattan
The total price for the trip is between $13.75 and $17.75. The AirTrain costs $8.50. The LIRR fare is $5.25 with a CityTicket (available on weekends and off-peak hours) or $7.00–$9.25 during peak times.
Shuttle Bus from JFK Airport to Manhattan
Journey Time: The transfer from JFK Airport to Manhattan by shuttle bus takes about 60 to 90 minutes.
Key Point: Shuttle buses pick up passengers right outside the arrivals area at every JFK terminal. Signs in the terminal point the way to the ground transportation area. Go AirLink NYC offers shared rides, which make stops for other passengers.
After getting your luggage, go to your terminal’s shuttle meeting point. Some providers have a staffed counter, while others use a set pickup zone. A company representative will check you in and take you to your shuttle.
Shared rides can take longer because of multiple stops. Most services run daily from around 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Shuttles leave about every 30 to 60 minutes.
Shuttle Bus Fare from JFK Airport to Manhattan
Shared rides Fare from JFK Airport to Manhattan cost between $25 and $40 per person.
Getting to Manhattan by Taxi from JFK Airport
Taxi from JFK Airport to Manhattan
Journey Time: A taxi ride from JFK Airport to Manhattan usually takes between 45 and 70 minutes. The time changes with traffic, and rides during rush hour can be longer.
Key Point: Official yellow taxis wait outside every terminal at JFK, on the arrivals level. Signs with a cab symbol guide you to the taxi stand. Once there, an airport worker will direct you to the next available taxi. The line moves quickly most of the time, but you might wait longer during busy hours.
Only take a taxi from the official stand. People offering rides inside the terminal are not licensed and often charge much more.
Taxi Fare from JFK Airport to Manhattan
The taxi rate of $170 covers all of Manhattan, no matter the time of day or location. Expect the full cost to be around $180–$190 once tolls and tips are added. Taxis cost more than public transport, and travel time can stretch during heavy traffic. Lines at the taxi stand can also get longer during peak travel times.
You can get from JFK to Manhattan with Uber or Lyft, though it’s often pricey and slow in heavy traffic. Bolt and Waymo don’t run services in NYC yet — Waymo has applied to test its self-driving cars with a safety driver.
Private Taxi Transfer from JFK Airport to Manhattan
Private JFK taxi transfers to Manhattan take 45 to 70 minutes and run 24/7. Your driver meets you at a set spot inside the terminal with a sign or instructions. Prices range from $56 to $110, fixed regardless of traffic or tolls. It’s ideal for travelers with luggage or families wanting a direct, door-to-door ride—perfect for trips from JFK Airport to Chinatown New York and Manhattan.
Door-to-Door Private Ride from JFK Airport to Manhattan
How to get from Newark Airport to Manhattan?
From Newark Airport to Manhattan, you can take the AirTrain with NJ Transit, shuttles, taxis, ride apps, private cars, or even helicopters. AirTrain with NJ Transit is cheap but not ideal with luggage or at busy times. Taxis and apps like Uber, Lyft, and Waymo are easy to find but can be pricey and slow due to traffic, tolls, and surge pricing.
Pre-booking a private Newark Airport Taxi Option to Manhattan is often the most comfortable and efficient option, ideal for avoiding transfers, crowds, and delays. It offers a first class VIP experience with extra convenience and peace of mind. How do you get from Newark Airport to Manhattan?
Shuttle Bus from Newark Airport to Manhattan
Journey Time: The shuttle bus from Newark Airport to Manhattan takes about 40 to 60 minutes. Travel time changes with traffic conditions.
Key Point: This shuttle service runs all day, every day, including nights and holidays. Buses leave every 20 to 30 minutes. The shuttle stops at several places in Manhattan, including Grand Central Station, Bryant Park, and the Port Authority Bus Terminal.
After you arrive, follow the signs to the shuttle counters in your terminal’s arrivals area. The shuttle does not provide door-to-door service.
You may wait at the airport, especially if flights arrive late. Traffic can make the ride take longer. The shuttle stops only at main points in Manhattan, so you might need other transport to reach your final destination.
Shuttle Bus Fare from Newark Airport to Manhattan
A one-way ticket from Newark Airport to Manhattan costs about $25 if you buy it online. A round-trip ticket costs around $42.
Photo by Luca Bravo on Unsplash
Train from Newark Airport to Manhattan
Journey Time: The train from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to Manhattan takes about 40 to 60 minutes.
Key Point: At Newark Airport, you board the AirTrain right at your terminal. The AirTrain stops at all airport terminals and connects to the Newark Airport Train Station. From there, you switch to an NJ Transit train heading to New York Penn Station in Manhattan.
NJ Transit trains run every 15 to 30 minutes, while the AirTrain comes more often—every 3 to 5 minutes. You can transfer at Penn Station to New York City subway lines like 1, 2, 3, A, C, or E if you need to reach other parts of the city.
This trip needs a transfer between the AirTrain and NJ Transit trains. Moving luggage can be harder during the switch. Travel time can vary depending on train schedules and time of day.
Train Fare from Newark Airport to Manhattan
You pay $15.50 for a combined ticket that covers both the AirTrain and NJ Transit. This saves you nearly $10 compared to buying tickets separately. If you need to use the subway after arriving at Penn Station, add $2.90 for the subway fare.
Taxi from Newark Airport to Manhattan
Journey Time: A taxi ride from Newark Airport to Manhattan usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes. The travel time depends on traffic conditions.
Key Point: Official yellow taxis wait outside the arrivals area at each terminal at Newark Airport. Taxis cost much more than public transport. Traffic jams can make the trip longer. Taxi fares for places outside Manhattan are not fixed and may vary.
Taxi Fare from Newark Airport to Manhattan
The taxi fare ranges from $170 to $190. On top of this, tolls add about $6 to $10, and a tip of roughly 15% is expected. Total costs usually reach between $185 and $210.
Traveling from ERW to Manhattan by Uber or Lyft is possible but can be costly and slow during rush hours. Bolt and Waymo don’t currently operate rides in New York City.
Private VIP Transfer from Newark Airport to Manhattan
Private taxis from Newark Airport to Manhattan take about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic, and run all day, every day. Your driver will meet you at the terminal, usually with a sign or by phone, and you’ll get clear pickup details before you arrive.
This is a good option for families, groups, or anyone with lots of luggage who wants a direct ride without stops. NYC chauffeured car transfers are the easiest and most comfortable way to get from Newark Airport to places like Hell’s Kitchen, Times Square, or anywhere in Manhattan.
Manhattan VIP Transfer Service with a Limousine
Manhattan Private Transfer from NYC Airports
Manhattan, 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 Manhattan, operating from LaGuardia (LGA), John F. Kennedy (JFK), and Newark Liberty (EWR) airports to locations throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens, and Staten Island.
AT's Manhattan airport transfers offer direct Manhattan pick up from LGA, JFK, or EWR and take you straight to your hotel, office, or any other address in the city (Washington Heights & Inwood, Upper East Side, West Village, Greenwich Village, Lower Manhattan, Union Square, Flatiron District, Koreatown, Battery Park City, Harlem, Soho, Noho, Roosevelt Island, Manhattan). 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 Manhattan black car or Manhattan 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.
Manhattan Bus Rental from the NYC Airports
Manhattan Bus Transfer from New York Airports
Traveling from New York airports such as JFK, LaGuardia (LGA), or Newark (EWR) to Manhattan with a group is simple, comfortable, and cost-effective when you choose a private New York Coach Transfer.
Whether you’re heading to corporate hubs like 28 Liberty Street, 30 Hudson Yards, or 111 Eighth Avenue, or planning sightseeing trips to Central Park, Rockefeller Center, or Chinatown New York, a group bus ensures that everyone travels together with ample space for passengers and luggage.
AirportTransfer.com offers a variety of bus sizes to suit your group: Minibus (8–16 passengers), Mid-size Bus (17–30 passengers), and Full-size Coach Bus (31–56 passengers). All vehicles are regularly cleaned, well-maintained, and driven by professional, licensed drivers who know New York traffic patterns ensuring safe, on-time arrivalsç. With AirportTransfer.com, you’ll enjoy 100% transparent pricing, no hidden fees, and connections to top-rated transport providers. Contact us today to book your private Manhattan bus transfer and secure reliable, stress-free travel for your group.
Airport Transfers to Manhattan Hotels (JFK, LGA, EWR)
Manhattan Hotel Transfers
Traveling to a big city like New York can feel busy, but AirportTransfer.com helps with private Manhattan hotel transfer service from LaGuardia (LGA), John F. Kennedy (JFK), and Newark Liberty (EWR) airports. A trained driver meets you at the terminal and drives you straight to your hotel in a private, air-conditioned car. No shared rides, no changes, and no stops. The service gives you a quiet, clear trip from airport to hotel.
You select your airport and hotel, then choose a car. You pay online with full safety. The platform sends a full confirmation after your booking.
You can book your ride to any hotel in Manhattan. Some top choices include:
- 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
- New York Marriott Marquis
Each of these hotels sits in a busy part of the city. A direct ride from the airport helps you skip the delay and reach the check-in faster.
Manhattan Cruise Port Transfers in New York
New York Manhattan Cruise Port Transfers
The Manhattan Cruise Terminal sits on the Hudson River at 711 12th Avenue in Midtown Manhattan. It stands as the main ocean cruise port for New York City. Many travelers pass through it each year on their way to or from a cruise.
It serves large cruise lines like Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, and Disney Cruise Line. Ships like Norwegian Breakaway, Carnival Magic, and Disney Fantasy often stop here. The terminal supports big ships and runs smooth day-to-day operations.
AirportTransfer.com offers private Manhattan cruise port transfers from JFK, LaGuardia (LGA), and Newark Liberty (EWR) straight to the Manhattan Cruise Terminal. A trained driver meets you at the airport and takes you to the port without delays. Pick the best way to Manhattan Cruise Terminal. Book a first class VIP ride that meets you on time and drives you without extra stops. Move from airport or hotel to port in a quiet car with no stress.
Luxury Helicopter Transfers to and from Manhattan
Manhattan Helicopter Transfers
Traffic in Manhattan can cause long delays, especially during rush hours or bad weather. Helicopter transfers avoid all road traffic by flying above the city. This saves a lot of time for travelers who need fast and reliable rides.
Helicopters also land close to many hotels and business centers, cutting down travel from the airport to final destinations. The flight is smooth and quiet, making it easier to rest or prepare for meetings.
AirportTransfer.com arranges Manhattan private helicopter charter service between NYC Airport and Manhattan. Helicopters land at convenient heliports in downtown Manhattan, near hotels and offices. Flights take minutes instead of hours, saving time and stress for travelers. Flying above city traffic makes travel easy for business trips and special occasions alike.
Flying by helicopter offers unmatched views of landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and Central Park. Passengers get a memorable experience as they travel, making the transfer more than just a ride.