I would manage easily on $200. I am not a big shopper and I like to eat on the run. $30 for a metro card will get you where you need to go as well.
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You should plan to spend around $316 per day on your vacation in New York City, which is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors. Past travelers have spent, on average, $50 on meals for one day and $49 on local transportation. Also, the average hotel price in New York City for a couple is $331.
If visitors are cautious about planning their travel, accommodations, transportation and itinerary, it is absolutely possible to visit New York City on a budget and still have a great time. Here are some tips on how to successfully do New York City on $100 a day.
We went to NYC last year during Christmas for 5 nights. My husband and I budgeted about $2000(for personal expenses not including hotel room or air travel which were separate). It was more than enough.
If you plan to stay at a 5-star hotel and dine at upscale restaurants in Manhattan, then a budget of $1000 is definitely not going to cut it. However, if you book a mid-tier hotel and take advantage of the many free things to do in New York, then a budget of $1000 is just fine.
Credit cards are accepted everywhere. In New York (and in the rest of the US) people that use credit cards are more common than those that use cash. In many ways, it is comparable to using a debit card. Debit cards will work at ATMs and you can pay more and more with them in restaurants and stores in New York as well.
Since New York City is one of the more expensive cities in the world, even a low-budget trip comes at a high price point. It's possible to visit New York City for less than $1,000 per week. However, it will be more of a no-frills experience and include more free activities like Central Park and Washington Square Park.
You do not tip salespeople in stores, medical doctors or hospital staff (if you have the misfortune to need them). Commercial tour guides expect a tip, but not those in museums. You also don't have to tip for counter service. Some people really hate the idea of tipping because it's not what they do at home.
Walking. Walking is definitely the cheapest way to get around NYC, and while it's not always practical, it is a great way to explore a neighborhood and experience the local culture. Best of all, it's free! Another way to take advantage of walking around New York City is to take a tour.
Anything too slim or fitted (this includes skinny jeans) will mark you as not from here. Also, if you want to look really insider-y, she said, “throw your chunky oversize knit sweater over your coat instead of a scarf, and tuck your oversize tote under the arm, not on your shoulder.” Finally, don't be flashy.
Times Square is a lively and fairly busy area both day and night. It is also a magnet for pickpockets and other petty thieves who blend into the crowded streets. Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables tucked away and out of reach. Check out our posts ranking the 70 hotels in Times Square.