Best hotels in New York City

New York is a city that instantly pulls you into its energetic orbit. But when you need a place to rest your head, there’s a stunning hotel on every corner to welcome you home. We’ve curated a list of stays for every type of traveller, whether you’re looking for an upscale New York hotel for a romantic holiday or a Times Square base for all of your convenient sightseeing needs.  

From family-friendly hotels and designer properties to grand dames, read our in-depth editor reviews and book your stay with Cathay Holidays. Discover our favourite Big Apple boltholes below. 

The best New York hotels 

Aman New York 

Best for: luxurious couple getaways 

Think of the Aman and you’ll likely picture a dreamy private resort where you never have to lift a finger and every minute detail is considered. The brand has taken those expectations and transported them to New York City’s Fifth Avenue, a stone’s throw from MoMA and Bergdorf Goodman. It’s hard to imagine a Manhattan sanctuary but Aman New York has achieved exactly that in the historic Crown Building, where a sleek black lift whisks you up to its top-floor suites. Fireplaces, a private butler and complimentary cocktails add to plush interiors, while the Garden Terrace bar offers prime sundowners with a view over Fifth Avenue. Don’t miss Nama’s modern omakase menu, or the property’s state-of-the-art spa (it is an Aman, after all.)  

Read our full Aman New York review. 

1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge 

Best for: Manhattan views and the Brooklyn Bridge

The Manhattan skyline is iconic and one of its best vantage points is from Brooklyn – more specifically, the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge . Tucked away on the edge of Brooklyn Bridge Park, this modern hotel brings the outside in, weaving verdant greenery and art crafted from salvaged park materials throughout its spaces. Sustainability is at its core and blends seamlessly with sophisticated rooms, featuring filtered water taps rather than plastic bottles and reclaimed wood details from the former Domino Sugar Factory. Splash out on a room with a view of the neighbouring Brooklyn Bridge, or head up to the rooftop infinity pool and bar Harriet’s for sundowners.  

Read our full 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge review. 

The Whitby Hotel 

Best for: Families with discerning taste

If Kit Kemp’s colourful, whimsical interior design doesn’t immediately put a smile on the whole family’s face, the rest of what The Whitby Hotel has to offer will. Classy, cosy and right by Central Park, this Midtown address is packed with personality and stunning details wherever you look. Connecting rooms make travelling with multiple family members a breeze, while the professional babysitting service means parents can pop out for a date night in the Big Apple. Touches like tiny bathrobes, bedtime milk and cookies and board games up the ante, with children’s menus available at the property’s dining destinations. 

The Plaza 

Best for: upscale Central Park stays

You don’t necessarily need to have a Home Alone-style adventure to stay at The Plaza . Following an extensive renovation, this beloved grand dame, which first opened in 1907, is better than ever – retaining its timeless glamour while bringing in modern updates. Themed suites like its coral pink Betsey Johnson-designed space and brick-domed Tower room are unforgettable experiences, while The Palm Court’s afternoon tea remains a staple for both travellers and locals alike. Situated on the edge of Central Park, you’ll also be able to join guided running tours, while children will be more than entertained by the hotel’s mascot Eloise and all the activities, special menus and toys available.  

The Times Square EDITION 

Best for: Times Square buzz

New York is all about location, location, location, with miles of pavement to pound during your next sightseeing trip. Stay in the heart of it all at The Times Square EDITION ; it’s more than just an ultra-convenient place to rest your head, with three restaurants helmed by Michelin-recognised chefs, airy light-filled rooms and even a performance space in a nod to nearby Broadway. It’s the best of both worlds with New York’s bustle right on your doorstep, and the tranquillity of its greenery-filled Outdoor Terrace restaurant and intimate cabaret Paradise Club.  

Moxy New York Lower East Side 

Best for: wallet-conscious group holidays 

Travelling with friends? This Moxy property is packed with personality and boasts over 300 rooms, making it easier to coordinate a big group trip. Past the tenement buildings and Katz’s Delicatessen, you’ll find the neon glow of Moxy’s sign ready to welcome you home. Beyond disco ball chandeliers and bold wallpaper choices, guest rooms make fashionable use of every square inch, with underbed storage and rainbow-hued showers. The property is also incredibly accessible, with the metro station nearby alongside neighbourhoods like Chinatown and Soho. You won’t have to go far to feast or dance as there are five dining and drinking options on site helmed by the team behind Hakkasan, including a must-visit rooftop bar and a live music lounge. 

Read our full Moxy New York Lower East Side review. 

Equinox Hotel New York 

Best for: fitness fanatics

Equinox is a fitness brand beloved by celebrities and New York’s power set – and now, you can see what's drawn the likes of Lenny Kravitz and The Rock from the comfort of an Equinox-branded property. Wellness is at the heart of this sleek Hudson Yards flagship, where you’ll be able to join complimentary classes including reformer Pilates and HIIT workouts at its in-house Equinox Fitness Club, or maximise your beauty rest with a sleep-oriented dining menu. That said, it’s not all about working up a sweat here – the hotel balances hard work with indulgence, with a fantastic bar and restaurant called Electric Lemon on site and a spa offering a range of science-led treatments.  

Read our full Equinox Hotel New York review.