Getting around New York City might look confusing at first—but once you understand the system, it’s one of the easiest cities in the world to navigate without a car. The subway runs 24/7, taxis are everywhere, and transport passes can save you serious money.
This New York transportation guide explains how to use the subway, taxis, ride-shares, and passes—so you can move around NYC confidently and efficiently.
Overview of Transport in New York City
Best Ways to Get Around NYC:
- Subway (fastest & cheapest)
- Walking (many attractions are close)
- Taxis & Uber/Lyft (convenient, more expensive)
- Buses (good for short distances)
🚫 Renting a car is not recommended.
New York City Subway – Complete Guide
The subway is the backbone of New York transportation.
Subway Basics:
- Operates 24 hours a day
- Covers all boroughs
- Trains are labeled by letters and numbers
- Local vs Express trains (express skip stops)
Subway Fare:
- Single ride: $2.90
- Free transfers within 2 hours
MetroCard vs OMNY – Which Should You Use?
MetroCard (Physical Card)
- Swipe-based system
- Best for weekly passes
- Costs $1 for a new card
OMNY (Contactless Payment)
- Tap your credit/debit card or phone
- Same fare as MetroCard
- No physical card needed
💡 OMNY is easiest for short trips; MetroCard works well for longer stays.
Best Transport Passes in New York City
| Pass | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 7-Day Unlimited | $34 | Tourists staying 4+ days |
| 30-Day Unlimited | $132 | Long stays |
| Pay-Per-Ride | $2.90 | Short visits |
👉 If you’re planning attractions daily, combine transport planning with Things to Do in New York City.
NYC Buses – When to Use Them
- Same fare as subway
- Slower but scenic
- Good for crosstown travel
🚌 Use buses when subway routes aren’t convenient.
Taxis, Uber & Lyft in NYC
Yellow Taxis
- Flag one on the street
- Metered fares
- Tip 15–20%
Uber & Lyft
- Convenient late at night
- Surge pricing during peak hours
- Often more expensive than subway
Airport Transportation in New York City
JFK Airport
- AirTrain + subway: $10–15
- Taxi to Manhattan: ~$70 flat fare
LaGuardia Airport
- Bus + subway: $5–8
- Taxi: $30–50
Newark Airport
- Train to Manhattan: $15–20
- Taxi: $70–90
Transportation Costs: Daily Budget
👉 For a full cost breakdown, see New York Travel Cost & Daily Budget.
| Transport Type | Daily Cost |
|---|---|
| Subway & Walking | $5–10 |
| Subway + Occasional Taxi | $15–25 |
| Frequent Taxis | $30+ |
Tips for First-Time Visitors Using NYC Transport
- Avoid rush hours (7–10 AM, 4–7 PM)
- Stand right, walk left on stairs
- Let passengers exit before boarding
- Download Google Maps or Citymapper
- Keep bags in front during crowds
Choosing the Right Area to Stay in New York City
Your transportation experience in NYC depends heavily on where you stay. Choosing a hotel near major subway lines can save time, money, and a lot of walking—especially for first-time visitors.
Staying in well-connected areas like Midtown Manhattan, Lower Manhattan, Long Island City (Queens), or Downtown Brooklyn makes it easy to reach top attractions using the subway or bus system.
👉 For a detailed breakdown of neighborhoods, hotel recommendations, and budget options, see Where to Stay in New York City (Best Areas + Hotels). This guide helps you choose accommodation based on convenience, price, and transport access.
Final Thoughts
New York’s transportation system looks intimidating—but it’s actually one of its biggest strengths. Once you master the subway and understand your pass options, moving around the city becomes fast, cheap, and stress-free.
Get the transport right, and New York opens up effortlessly.
FAQs – New York Transportation Guide
Q1: Is the subway safe for tourists?
Yes, especially during the day and early evening.
Q2: Should I buy a MetroCard or use OMNY?
Use OMNY for short stays; MetroCard for unlimited weekly travel.
Q3: Do NYC subways run at night?
Yes, the subway runs 24/7.
Q4: Is tipping required for taxis?
Yes, tip 15–20%.
Q5: Can I walk around NYC easily?
Yes. Walking is one of the best ways to explore.
