Arrival by Plane
New York has three airports—pay attention to which one you choose when booking:
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
The main airport for international flights, located in Queens, about 25 km southeast of Manhattan. Most direct flights from Germany (Lufthansa, Condor, United) land here.
- AirTrain + Subway: AirTrain to Jamaica Station or Howard Beach Station ($8.50), then Subway ($2.90) to Manhattan. Cheapest option: about $11.40, 60–75 minutes.
- Taxi: Flat rate to Manhattan: $52 + toll + tip (total cost: about $70–80). 45–90 minutes depending on traffic.
- Uber/Lyft: About $50–80 to Manhattan (surge pricing possible). Pickup at the ride-share area.
- NYC Airporter Bus: From $17 to Grand Central, Penn Station, or Port Authority. 60–90 minutes.
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
Located in New Jersey, about 25 km southwest of Manhattan. Many direct flights from Europe (United, Lufthansa, Swiss). Often cheaper than JFK.
- AirTrain + NJ Transit: AirTrain to Newark Airport Rail Station (free within the airport, $5.50 for AirTrain), then NJ Transit to New York Penn Station ($15.25). Total cost: about $20, 45 minutes.
- Taxi: About $60–80 to Manhattan (+ toll + tip).
LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
Located in Queens, the closest airport to Manhattan (13 km), but primarily for domestic flights. No rail connection—by bus (M60 SBS to Harlem, $2.90) or taxi ($25–45 to Manhattan).
💡 Tipp
JFK vs. Newark: Compare prices! Newark is often cheaper (flights AND nearby hotels) and has a fast, affordable train connection to Manhattan (Penn Station) with NJ Transit. The AirTrain + Subway from JFK takes longer but is the cheapest option. NEVER accept a private "taxi driver" at the airport who approaches you—only use official yellow taxis or Uber/Lyft!
