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The 5 Best Luxury Hotels on Times Square in New York

Times Square, named after the famous newspaper “New York Times”, is located in the heart of Manhattan at the intersection of Broadway and Seventh Avenue. The square is one of the most spectacular places in New York City, especially because of the colorful lights and the renowned Broadway musicals. In keeping with this, some of the best luxury hotels in New York City are located right on Times Square and offer an incomparable view of the hustle and bustle. We’ll show you the five best hotels on Times Square and some tips for your luxurious trip to the famous square.

General information about a stay at Times Square

Times Square, also known as the “Crossroads of the World”, is probably the most visited square in Manhattan. With around 40 theaters, numerous upscale restaurants and fast food chains and various shops, it combines all facets of New York . In addition to the right accommodation, there are of course other things that are important for a successful stay. Below we have summarized some important information for you.

The 5 best hotels directly on Times Square at a glance

Renaissance New York Times Square Hotel – Casual luxury in the heart of the city

The upscale high-rise hotel is impressive just because of its location right on Times Square. You can also look forward to a wide range of offers and luxurious amenities inside. The rooms and suites welcome you with modern and casual furnishings and, not least thanks to the soundproof windows, become cozy retreats right on Times Square.

In terms of culinary delights, this luxury hotel on Times Square has a lounge with a panoramic view of the city, which will spoil you with creative cocktails and sophisticated appetizers. In the immediate vicinity of the hotel there is also a large selection of high-class restaurants and American fast food restaurants. An extensive fitness area is also part of the offerings of the Renaissance New York Times Square Hotel.

5-best-luxury-hotels-on-times-square

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Hotels

Christmas in New York: the best hotels in the city to spend the holidays

If you’re looking for ideas on where to stay in New York this season, here’s a selection of the most incredible hotels to celebrate Christmas in style in the Big Apple.

From the end of November, the Christmas spirit begins to invade New York at an overwhelming pace. The city puts on its best clothes for the occasion: shop windows decorated with beautiful ornaments, trees with endless lights everywhere, ice rinks in every park and markets with typical Christmas foods from all corners of the world. During this season, Manhattan receives the visit of thousands of people who want to experience the magic of Christmas first hand (in addition to doing their Christmas shopping).

If you want some ideas on the best places to stay in New York to enjoy these holidays there, we bring you a selection of the most ideal hotels where you can wait for Santa Claus.

A fashionable Christmas on Fifth Avenue

Right on Fifth Avenue you will find  The Peninsula Hotel . This is, without a doubt, one of the most fabulous hotels to enjoy Christmas, and its location is unbeatable: it is surrounded by shops, shows and tourist attractions.

Of course, if you’re in New York during this time, you can’t miss the fabulous Christmas Spectacular. This musical performance, held every year around this time, features the Radio City Rockettes, a dance troupe with nearly a century of history. And the icing on the cake is that the show is performed at Radio City Music Hall , just a short walk from The Peninsula Hotel!

Christmas in New York: the best hotels in the city to spend the holidays

New York Christmas in a warm boutique hotel

If you’re looking for contemporary accommodation with a touch of charm this Christmas, the  Bryant Park Hotel  is perfect for you. With its elegant and simple rooms , this hotel not only offers you the comfort so desired by all travelers who spend days away from home, but also truly modern facilities, such as its private cinema (which has been rented by, among others, Martin Scorsese and Nicholas Cage).

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And if you don’t feel like immersing yourself in the city’s frenetic pace when night falls, the hotel has a Mediterranean-style restaurant . Inside, inspired by Morocco, you can enjoy a warm atmosphere, exotic cocktails and excellent service… The Bryant Park Hotel will make you feel right at home.

A Christmas movie at an iconic New York hotel

The Plaza Hotel  is a symbol of the city, and gained even more fame with the movie “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York.” It is a must-stop on the itinerary of many visitors who come to Manhattan. If you stay at the Plaza during Thanksgiving, you will wake up the next day in the Christmas universe , as the hotel staff decorates it that night to surprise its guests. The elegant decorations and festive atmosphere bring this ostentatious New York accommodation to life during Christmas.

At this hotel of classic style and timeless elegance, quality is served, with exquisite rooms and impeccable service. And you’ll have plenty of options when it comes to choosing where to eat . You can enjoy a cup of tea in Palm Court, delight in dishes at the Plaza Food Hall or toast to the holidays in the Champagne Bar.

Artistic Christmas in one of New York’s liveliest neighborhoods

If you fancy a trendy Christmas, The Standard East Village is the hotel for you. It is located in East Village, one of the most alternative and multicultural neighbourhoods in the city, also adored by many artists, such as Madonna and Daniel Radcliffe . The hotel blends in perfectly with this neighbourhood: its old-style entrance gives way to a modern and eccentric interior, in true East Village style. 

During these dates, you can also enjoy the Winter Garden: the hotel’s fully decorated garden, with stalls where you can buy Christmas trees , have a hot chocolate or taste freshly baked cookies.

A hotel for Christmas lovers

For Christmas tree lovers,  Lotte New York Palace  is surely the hotel of your dreams. Known for its height of over nine metres , the Lotte Palace tree stands in the centre of the hotel’s courtyard – it’s impossible to miss. However, a tree decorated with over 3,000 lights wasn’t enough for this hotel… You can also listen to Christmas carols , hear Christmas stories, enjoy customised holiday spa packages or decorate cookies. Without a doubt, what you won’t be missing at this hotel is the Christmas spirit!

And if you liked the tree, the lights and the decorations at Lotte Palace, a neighborhood you can’t miss is Dyker Heights. In this Brooklyn neighborhood , houses decorate their facades with thousands of lights and spectacular figures. A tradition that began a few decades ago and that attracts hundreds of tourists every year, a real treat for Christmas lovers.

Let yourself be surprised by the creativity of this hotel at Christmas

Dream  Downtown  has become increasingly famous for the extravagant Christmas decorations that adorn its lobby every year. From mechanical penguins to a stuffed bear to an ice cream bar… Aren’t you curious to know how Dream Downtown can surprise you this year?

This hotel is also located in the heart of the Meatpacking District, close to Chelsea Market and High Line Park, a must-see in recent years . As you stroll along the High Line, a park built on an old railway line, you will enjoy nature, art and atypical views of Manhattan.

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Hotels

New York Hotels: 5 Luxury Hotels with Breathtaking Views!

Looking for the ultimate experience during your stay in the Big Apple ? Check out our exclusive article on New York hotels that offer more than just a place to rest. Immerse yourself in a world where every time you wake up you’ll be greeted with a breathtaking view, right from the comfort of your room.

Our curated selection highlights 5 exceptional hotels , boasting breathtaking views of icons like the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Central Park, and the skyscraper skyline that defines this vibrant metropolis.

Whether you’re looking to capture the city’s skyline at sunrise or fall asleep to the twinkling lights of the city that never sleeps, these properties promise unforgettable experiences. Explore these New York City hotels with a view with us , and prepare to be amazed by unique views that will enrich your stay in the city.

New York Hotels: 5 Luxury Hotels

One of the most beautiful hotels in NYC: The W New York Times Square hotel

Discover a rare gem in the heart of Manhattan , the W New York – Times Square hotel, a luxurious oasis that stands proudly at 53 floors in the heart of the iconic Times Square district . World-renowned for its unparalleled excitement, this area is home to Broadway shows , an exceptional shopping experience, and a vibrant nightlife, making this hotel an ideal base for culture and entertainment lovers.

The W New York hotel in Times Square stands out not only for its prime location, but also for its avant-garde design. With blue neon lights running through the hallways and pops of fuchsia pink energizing the space, it offers a unique visual experience from the moment you enter.

For those who dream of fully immersing themselves in the New York skyline, this hotel overlooking Times Square will meet all your expectations. Enjoy rooms with breathtaking views of the beating heart of the city, some with floor-to-ceiling windows at the corners for a total immersion in the New York buzz.

Beyond the view, the W New York – Times Square offers a full range of high-end services, from luxurious suites to a rooftop terrace offering an unprecedented perspective on the Manhattan skyline . This property is not only my favorite, but also among the best hotels in the Big Apple , Gotham, the city that never sleeps.

If you are looking for an exceptional stay in a star-rated hotel in New York , with spectacular views of Times Square and privileged access to all that Manhattan has to offer, the W New York – Times Square hotel is your dream destination. Don’t wait any longer to book your stay at this jewel of the city and live an unforgettable experience in one of the most fascinating metropolises in the world.

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Millennium Hilton New York One UN Plaza Hotel

Immerse yourself in elegance and comfort at the Millennium Hilton New York One UN Plaza Hotel , a premier destination for those seeking an exceptional hotel experience in the vibrant metropolis of New York. Situated in the prestigious East Side neighborhood , this property is distinguished by its strategic location and breathtaking panoramic views .

The rooms, combining elegance and functionality, adopt a refined contemporary style, with a particular touch in the West Tower where the decoration is inspired by Asia, thus adding a unique cultural dimension to your stay. Each room is an invitation to luxury, equipped with marble bathtubs and immense windows offering breathtaking views either of the river or of the iconic New York skyline , including views of the Empire State Building and other emblematic skyscrapers.

The Millennium Hilton New York One UN Plaza Hotel is more than just a place to stay; it’s a gateway to New York’s most iconic sights, offering guests unique perspectives on the city and its legendary landmarks. Whether you’re here for business or pleasure, every moment spent at this hotel will be enhanced by the visual majesty of the city that never sleeps.

Among the best hotels in New York , the Millennium Hilton New York One UN Plaza Hotel stands out for its commitment to providing a memorable experience, making every visit a unique opportunity to explore the city at its best. Whether you seek the privacy of a room with a view of the Empire State Building or the panoramic vastness of the New York cityscape, this hotel promises an unforgettable getaway in the heart of one of New York’s most fascinating neighborhoods.

One of the most luxurious hotels: The Peninsula

Immerse yourself in luxury at The Peninsula , a legendary 5-star hotel located in the iconic Midtown Manhattan neighborhood at the prestigious corner of 5th Avenue and 55th Street. This exceptional address offers unparalleled access to New York City’s treasures, nestled in the epicenter of elegance and sophistication.

In the refined setting of The Peninsula New York, classic décor blends beautifully with elegance and comfort, embodying a timeless luxury that defines the guest experience. Every aspect of the hotel, from the fine materials to the luxurious amenities, is designed to offer a complete immersion in a world of prestige.

Innside New York Hotel: Stunning Views of the Empire State Building

Experience a window into the beating heart of New York with the Innside Hotel by Meliá , an exceptional address that offers breathtaking views of the iconic Empire State Building . Located less than a kilometer from this historic landmark, this hotel is the perfect choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the magic of the city while enjoying modern comfort and quality service.

Each room at Innside New York Hotel is designed to maximize your visual experience of the city: floor-to-ceiling windows frame spectacular views of the Empire State Building , giving guests a unique perspective on one of the world’s most famous skyscrapers. Whether you wake up to the first light of dawn or fall asleep to New York City’s nighttime skyline, every moment here is an invitation to admire the city at its finest.

Kimpton Ink 48 Hotel

Immerse yourself in the unique world of Kimpton Ink 48 Hotel , an architectural and design marvel by David Rockwell. Located in the heart of New York City, this property stands out for its contemporary style, seamlessly blending mid-century modern furnishings with bold graphic florals and colorful carpeting. The interior is a veritable art gallery, with hallways adorned with brilliant photographs capturing the essence of the New York skyline. However, for a truly unforgettable experience, head to the 17th floor and prepare to be dazzled.

Kimpton Ink 48 is more than just a New York hotel; it’s an invitation to experience the city from a new perspective. Guestrooms offer spectacular views that immerse you in the cityscape, allowing you to admire the majesty of the New York skyline in all its glory. Every window opens onto a living tableau, offering varied perspectives on the city that never sleeps.

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Destinations

Visit New York in 3 days: what to do? what to see?

Are you dreaming of discovering the Big Apple and want to visit New York in 3 days ? In this article, we share with you our itinerary and our advice for a first time in New York . We were lucky enough to visit New York twice! The first time was in October 2019 as a couple for our 40th birthday. Our second trip was with our family in May 2024! We therefore offer you the ideal program to see the must-sees. So if you are wondering what to do in New York in 3 days , follow the guide!

Before telling you in detail about our trip day by day, here is the itinerary that we followed during our two stays in New York and which adapts very well to a visit to New York with the family . This program is spread over 3 full days considering that you arrive the day before Day 1 and that you leave on the evening of Day 3. But if you stay longer in New York, you can adapt this schedule by reducing some days or by modulating it according to your desires.

Visit New York in 3 days

Day-by-Day Itinerary for 3 Days in New York

Day 1: Unforgettable First Impressions

TIMES SQUARE

Our hotel is located in the Times Square district, it is the first place we discovered when arriving in New York. The buildings, the luminous screens, the excitement… it is a pretty crazy place! You have to experience it in the early morning in total calm and at night when the district is buzzing. Times Square is a must-see place but it is also quite confusing and very noisy!

SUMMIT ONE VANDERBILT

When we came in 2019, the SUMMIT observatory did not yet exist. After seeing so many photos and videos on Instagram, we absolutely had to discover this trendy spot. We were afraid of being a little disappointed because we had loved the Top of the Rock, but we were blown away ! The different viewpoints offered by the SUMMIT are just crazy. It’s a feast for the eyes and you don’t know where to look. This new observatory offers a unique experience with its glass room, the one filled with silver balloons and its terrace! Despite the fairly high price (from €43/adult and €37/child) , this is the New York observatory not to be missed ! For the moment, entrance tickets for the SUMMIT are not part of any tourist pass.

We recommend going there at 9am when it opens to be able to enjoy the place without the crowds. The SUMMIT is a very popular place that can get crowded quickly!

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WALK IN THE MIDTOWN DISTRICT

After having feasted our eyes, we set off to explore Midtown, the heart of Manhattan. We passed by the Rockfeller Center where you will find the famous ice rink from October to March. At the corner of 5th Avenue and 50th Street, opposite the Rockfeller Center, is St. Patrick’s Cathedral  whose architecture contrasts with the surrounding buildings.

Day 2: Exploring Manhattan’s Hidden Gems

 HIGH LINE, LITTLE ISLAND & CHELSEA

On this second day, head to the new Manhattan neighborhood:  Hudson Yards  to admire the  Vessel . We join the High Line , which is near the Vessel, for a morning stroll. This former elevated railway line has been rehabilitated into a 2.3 km long green promenade. This park is very pleasant with its benches, greenery, street art and its perspective on the Chelsea  and  Meatpacking District neighborhoods . The High Line is a haven of peace in the heart of Manhattan and it is a must for a first visit to New York.

At the end of the High Line is Little Island , a brand new park on stilts. Its design is quite astonishing and forms a floating leaf on the Hudson River.

Our green walk ends with a coffee break at the Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Chelsea before discovering the Chelsea Market . This former biscuit factory (including the famous Oreo cakes) is now a covered market with a very industrial style. This market has around forty shops. You can go shopping, come and eat or buy food to take away.

GREENWICH VILLAGE

Our discovery of the southern part of Manhattan continues with the historic district of New York: Greenwich Village , also nicknamed The Village. We fell under the spell of this very quiet residential area which also reminded us of our favorite series. If you pass by there, you can’t miss the Friends building at the intersection of Grove Street and Bedford Street or the apartment of Carrie Bradshaw from the series S*x and the City at 66 Perry Street. We advise you to wander randomly in the streets to taste the intimate atmosphere of this neighborhood.

SOHO & NOLITA

We go down a little further into Lower Manhattan to see the famous cast-iron buildings of the lively and trendy  Soho district. It is in Soho that you will also find the famous bakery of the Frenchman Dominique Ansel where you have to queue to taste a cronut, this original mix between a croissant and a donut.

But it’s lunch time and we’re going to try the best bagel in Manhattan at Sadelle’s . The restaurant is packed and it’s not possible to eat in. So we take a cream cheese and salmon bagel to go. The homemade fish is delicious. At Sadelle’s they do high-end bagels and you’ll have to pay $19 to taste it.

Day 3: Cultural Gems and Natural Wonders

HARLEM

After walking nearly 25 km the day before, on this Sunday morning, we decided to take the subway to go to Harlem. We saved ourselves 8 km of walking and above all we felt like we were living like real New Yorkers! We who are not used to public transport, we found the subway rather easy to use. You just have to enter the right station (Uptown to the North and Downtown to the South) and take the right train (express: which only stops at the big stations) or local (which stops at all the stations).

We begin our visit of Harlem with Hamilton Heights, a historic neighborhood known for its magnificent Brownstones (typical red sandstone houses) and the City College of New York which looks more like a castle than a university. Going back down into Harlem, we walk along St Nicholas Park . It is a very quiet and pleasant place which leads to 125th Street, also known as  Martin Luther King Jr Blvd. We make a mandatory stop at the Apollo Theater . This famous performance hall has seen the greatest artists (Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, Ella Fitzgerald, etc.) whose names are encrusted in the stars of the forecourt.

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CENTRAL PARK

Central Park is truly a unique park with its 341 hectares surrounded by buildings. No need to look for squirrels, here these little rodents are everywhere! We really liked the calming atmosphere of Central Park and its “labyrinth” which leads each time to such different places.

What to see in Central Park?

We started our walk with the Harlem Meer, an artificial lake located in the North East of Central Park. Then we sat down for a moment on a bench facing Untermyer Fountain whose sculptures represent three dancing ladies. We came across many runners around the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, the largest pond in Central Park with an incredible view of the buildings. Then we stopped for a moment at Belvedere Castle , a surprising medieval castle in the middle of Central Park but which offers a very pretty view.

 HUDSON RIVER CRUISE

During our family trip to New York, we absolutely had to do the Harbor Lights night cruise that we had loved 5 years earlier. The Circle Line boat leaves from Pier 83 at 7pm in the evening. Its route on the Hudson River allows you to admire the most beautiful monuments of New York and pass under the most emblematic bridges.

We settle in at the back of the boat in the center on the outdoor terrace. And believe us this place was just perfect to fully enjoy this cruise! If we are lucky with the weather the cruise starts at sunset and ends on a fully illuminated skyline. 

Then we approach the Statue of Liberty that we have not seen since our arrival. I can’t explain it but at that moment we felt a lot of emotion. Everything that we had been dreaming about for so long is right there in front of our eyes and it’s almost unreal. The boat takes a long break right in front of the most famous monument in the United States. We are simply amazed! It will be one of the most magical experiences of our stay!