Best Hotels In New York City For Christmas: Top Affordable Picks

Looking for the best hotels in New York City for Christmas? Between the twinkling lights, festive holiday markets, and iconic attractions like the Rockefeller Center tree, NYC really is magical during the holidays.

With so many hotels across Manhattan and Brooklyn, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. I remember feeling the same way on my first Christmas in the city. I wanted a hotel that would make our short trip feel special without breaking the bank.

The good news is that you don’t have to spend a fortune to soak up the Christmas spirit. Here are my top picks for the best affordable hotels in New York City at Christmas, with an average rate of around $200 per night.

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Hotel prices rise sharply during December, but you do not have to spend a fortune to soak up the Christmas magic. These three picks give you festive vibes, excellent locations, and great value for money.

Where to stay in New York City at Christmas

Each neighborhood in New York offers a different kind of Christmas magic:

• SoHo: Best for boutique shopping and stylish, cozy hotels
• Midtown Manhattan: Best for classic Christmas attractions like Rockefeller Center and Bryant Park
• Downtown Manhattan: Best for quieter stays near the Seaport and Brooklyn Bridge
• Brooklyn: Best for over-the-top holiday lights and neighborhood charm

Here are the top hotels in each area, along with nearby things to do.

SoHo

Best area for boutique shopping and cozy holiday vibes

SoHo is perfect if you want Christmas magic without the crowds in Midtown Manhattan. You’ll find cobblestone streets, boutiques, and twinkling lights across historic cast-iron buildings. If you want to enjoy holiday shopping and evening strolls, SoHo may be perfect for you.

Things to do in in SoHo at Christmas

• Holiday shopping: Get one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts from the boutiques
• Union Square Holiday Market: One of NYC’s most famous festive markets

1. Sohotel

Best for boutique holiday charm and access to SoHo shopping

SoHotel is a stylish boutique hotel in the heart of SoHo. The rooms are cozy, with hardwood floors, modern décor, and comfy beds that make the most of the space for a winter getaway. During the holidays, the lobby and common areas are decorated with festive touches, making everything feel warm and welcoming. The location is fantastic too, just a five-minute walk from Bowery subway station and close to the Union Square Holiday Market, Little Italy, and all the SoHo shops.

🎯 Review Score: 8.0

⭐ Star Rating: 4 stars

💰 Price: From $258 per night

🛁 Amenities: Cozy rooms, festive décor, lounge spaces, pet-friendly options

🗣️ Guests say: They love the stylish design, friendly service, and central SoHo location

2. Nolitan Hotel SoHo – New York

Best for stylish stays and rooftop views

The Nolitan Hotel SoHo is perfect for couples or travelers who love modern style and a lively neighborhood. The rooms are chic and contemporary, and you can even borrow a complimentary bike to explore the city. The rooftop terrace offers great views of the Empire State Building, and the hotel is pet-friendly. Its location makes it easy to hop on the subway and explore Manhattan and beyond.

🎯 Review Score: 8.0

⭐ Star Rating: 4 stars

💰 Price: From $240 per night

🛁 Amenities: Rooftop terrace, restaurant, complimentary bicycles, pet-friendly rooms

🗣️ Guests say: They love the modern rooms, rooftop views, convenient location, and friendly staff

3. Arlo SoHo

Best for cozy communal spaces and skyline views

Arlo SoHo is cozy and chic, with small rooms that make up for it with warm, inviting communal spaces. During the holidays, the lobby bar features festive décor and the rooftop gives some of the best skyline views for winter sunsets. The hotel is great for anyone who wants to enjoy shopping in SoHo or take a quick subway trip uptown to see the Rockefeller tree.

🎯 Review Score: 8.1

⭐ Star Rating: 4 stars

💰 Price: From $261 per night

🛁 Amenities: Cozy communal areas, rooftop bar, 24/7 bodega

🗣️ Guests say: They love the atmosphere, friendly staff, and view from the rooftop

Midtown Manhattan

Best area for classic NYC Christmas attractions

If you’ve dreamed of ice skating under the Rockefeller Center tree, seeing the Saks light show, or exploring Bryant Park’s Winter Village, this is where you need to be. I spent my first Christmas in NYC in Midtown Manhattan, the epicenter of New York’s holiday spirit, and can confirm it’s amazing.

Things to do in Midtown during Christmas

• Rockefeller Center tree and ice skating
• Fifth Avenue Windows: Macy’s, Saks, and Bergdorf Goodman put on amazing holiday displays
• Radio City Christmas Spectacular: The Rockettes are a Christmas tradition for many who visit NYC
• Bryant Park Winter Village: Ice skating, holiday shopping, and mulled wine all in one spot

4. Moxy NYC Times Square

Best for first timers who want central Midtown access with a festive rooftop bar

We stayed at Moxy NYC Times Square during our last visit to NYC for Christmas and chose it because it had a good brand, convenient location, and a relatively affordable price for the area. It’s a fun, trendy pick for first-time visitors who want to be in the middle of it all. The rooms are modern and comfortable, and the rooftop bar and lounge make it easy to enjoy a festive drink after a day of sightseeing. Its location near Times Square and Bryant Park puts you close to all the classic holiday attractions without breaking the bank.

🎯 Review Score: 8.1

⭐ Star Rating: 4 stars

💰 Price: From $286 per night

🛁 Amenities: Rooftop bar, lounge, trendy rooms

🗣️ Guests say: They love the perfect mix of affordability and fun, especially at Christmas

5. Pod Times Square

Best for budget-conscious travelers wanting a no-fuss stay near holiday attractions

Pod Times Square is perfect for travelers who want a budget-friendly, no-fuss stay in the heart of Midtown. The rooms are compact and smartly designed, and the hotel even offers bunk beds for extra savings. This is a great choice if you want to focus on seeing the city rather than spending time in a hotel room.

🎯 Review Score: 8.4

⭐ Star Rating: 3 stars

💰 Price: From $164 per night (1 person rate)

🛁 Amenities: Compact modern rooms, onsite restaurant

🗣️ Guests say: They love the efficiency, clean rooms, and prime location for holiday sightseeing

6. Pod 39 Hotel

Best affordable base near Bryant Park and Rockefeller Center

Pod 39 Hotel is ideal for anyone looking for an affordable and central base near Bryant Park and Rockefeller Center. The rooms are simple and clean, and the hotel has a restaurant, lounge, and game room. It’s perfect for travelers who want to explore the holiday sights without spending a fortune on lodging.

🎯 Review Score: 8.4

⭐ Star Rating: 3 stars

💰 Price: From $170 per night (1 person rate)

🛁 Amenities: Restaurant, lounge, game room

🗣️ Guests say: They like the clean rooms, unbeatable value, and great access to Christmas attractions

7. Nap York Central Park Sleep Station

Best for minimalist, capsule-style stays near Central Park

Nap York Central Park Sleep Station is a capsule-style hostel that works well for travelers who value convenience, affordability, and a minimalist style. The pods are cozy with blackout curtains, and shared modern showers keep things simple. It’s just steps from Central Park and Times Square, making it a quiet but central place to rest between city adventures.

🎯 Review Score: 8.2

⭐ Star Rating: 1 star

💰 Price: From $120 per night (1 person rate)

🛁 Amenities: Sleep pods, rooftop terrace, shared lounge/kitchenette

🗣️ Guests say: They love the clean, quiet pods and central location

Downtown Manhattan

Best area for quieter stays with holiday charm

Downtown is calmer than Midtown, but still offers plenty of festive fun. You’ll find the Seaport District Christmas tree, historic cobblestone streets, and easy access to the Brooklyn Bridge for magical holiday strolls.

Things to do Downtown during Christmas

• One World Observatory: Incredible skyline views, especially at night when the city glows with holiday lights.
• Seaport District: A charming Christmas tree, waterfront views, and small shops.
• Brooklyn Bridge Walk: Bundle up for a magical winter stroll across the bridge with views of Manhattan lit up for Christmas.

8. Moxy NYC Downtown

Best for social travelers who enjoy lively spaces

Moxy Downtown is a playful and stylish hotel in Lower Manhattan, great for travelers who want to be near Wall Street, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Seaport District. The lobby doubles as a lounge and coworking space, and there are fun extras like a basketball half court and arcade games. It’s perfect for anyone who likes a social, lively atmosphere.

🎯 Review Score: 8.1

⭐ Star Rating: 4 stars

💰 Price: From $229 per night

🛁 Amenities: Game-filled lounge, stylish rooms, fitness center

🗣️ Guests say: They enjoy the trendy social spaces and fun vibe

9. CitizenM New York Bowery

Best modern and budget-friendly downtown stay near Downtown holiday markets

CitizenM New York Bowery is a modern and budget-friendly choice for travelers who love tech-savvy rooms and vibrant communal spaces. The rooftop bar has sweeping skyline views, and the hotel is close enough to enjoy Christmas in both Midtown and Downtown. It’s great for anyone who enjoys modern design, convenience, and a festive vibe.

🎯 Review Score: 8.8

⭐ Star Rating: 4 stars

💰 Price: From $219 per night

🛁 Amenities: Rooftop bar, trendy communal spaces, fitness center

🗣️ Guests say: They love the modern design, smart technology, and excellent location for holiday markets

10. Motto by Hilton New York City Times Square

Best for travelers prioritizing central location and compact luxury

Motto by Hilton NYC Times Square is ideal for travelers who prioritize location, style, and smart use of space. The rooms are compact but sleek, with high-tech features, Murphy beds, and a chic lobby. You are steps from Broadway, Rockefeller Center, and many theaters, making it a convenient choice for anyone who wants to be in the heart of the action.

🎯 Review Score: 8.0

⭐ Star Rating: 3 stars

💰 Price: From $218 per night

🛁 Amenities: Fitness center, on-site restaurant, bar

🗣️ Guests say: They love the chic, modern, great location near Times Square, cozy holiday atmosphere, and great views from the room

Brooklyn

Best area for neighborhood charm and over-the-top holiday lights

Brooklyn is an underrated Christmas destination. From the world-famous Dyker Heights holiday lights to festive food markets, Brooklyn offers a cozy, community-driven Christmas vibe.

Things to do in Brooklyn during Christmas

• Dyker Heights Christmas Lights: The most extravagant holiday neighborhood in NYC.
• Brooklyn Botanic Garden Lightscape: A dreamy light show that winds through the gardens.
• Brooklyn Flea + Smorgasburg Holiday Market: Great for unique gifts and seasonal treats.

11. NY Moore Hostel

Best for artsy and budget-friendly stay in Brooklyn

NY Moore Hostel offers a fun, artsy choice for budget-conscious travelers who love creative spaces. The rooms are bright and spacious with murals throughout the property, and there’s a communal kitchen and coffee lounge. It’s perfect for social travelers who want to experience Brooklyn’s lively, artistic vibe.

🎯 Review Score: 8.3

⭐ Star Rating: 3 stars

💰 Price: From $52 per night (1 person rate)

🛁 Amenities: Communal kitchen, coffee lounge, courtyard

🗣️ Guests say: They love the spacious, artistic rooms and social atmosphere in Williamsburg

12. Pod Brooklyn

Best for stylish and affordable stays with rooftop access

Pod Brooklyn is ideal for travelers who want an affordable, stylish stay in Williamsburg. The rooms are compact but thoughtfully designed, and there are plenty of shared lounges and rooftop spaces. You are close to Brooklyn’s shops, cafes, and holiday markets, making it great for anyone who wants to balance budget, style, and neighborhood charm.

🎯 Review Score: 8.4

⭐ Star Rating: 3 stars

💰 Price: From $160 per night

🛁 Amenities: Rooftop spaces, courtyard, shared lounges, bike rentals

🗣️ Guests say: They love the great value, cozy rooms, fun neighborhood atmosphere and easy access to Manhattan

Willing to splurge? Best luxury hotels in NYC for Christmas

If you want the ultimate Christmas in New York, these luxury hotels could be worth a once-in-a-lifetime trip. Alternatively, you could review how much your trip to NYC costs and then decide if you have room in your budget for these iconic hotels.

13. Omni Berkshire Place

Best for families wanting classic Midtown holiday luxury

Located in Midtown Manhattan, Omni Berkshire Place is perfect for families who want classic luxury and easy access to Midtown holiday attractions. The rooms are spacious and decorated for the season, and it is steps from Rockefeller Center. Families will love being close to the tree, ice skating, and other holiday traditions.

🎯 Review Score: 8.5

⭐ Star Rating: 4 stars

💰 Price: From $481 per night

🛁 Amenities: Central location, spacious rooms, holiday decor, concierge services

🗣️ Guests say: They love the family-friendly atmosphere, convenience, and festive holiday setup

14. The Plaza Hotel

Best for travelers wanting an over-the-top Christmas movie experience

The Plaza Hotel is the ultimate Christmas experience in NYC, located across Central Park. It may seem odd to feature such an opulent hotel in this list but it’s worth mentioning that it’s been featured in Home Alone 2, the iconic Christmas movie. The hotel is iconic, with over-the-top holiday decor, Central Park views, and a legendary Holiday Afternoon Tea. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to feel like they are living in a Christmas movie.

🎯 Review Score: 8.4

⭐ Star Rating: 5 stars

💰 Price: From $1,900 per night

🛁 Amenities: Afternoon tea, festive lobby, Central Park views, concierge services

🗣️ Guests say: They love the legendary experience, festive grandeur, and impeccable service

15. The Peninsula New York

Best for travelers seeking splurge-worthy holiday luxury

The Peninsula NY is ideal for travelers who want a splurge-worthy Christmas stay. With rooftop igloos, luxury holiday packages, and one of the city’s best spas, it is perfect for anyone who enjoys elegance, comfort, and festive experiences.

🎯 Review Score: 8.9

⭐ Star Rating: 5 stars

💰 Price: From $1,200 per night

🛁 Amenities: Rooftop igloos, spa, holiday packages, fine dining

🗣️ Guests say: They love the elegance, festive touches, and perfect splurge-worthy Christmas experience

FAQs about affordable NYC hotels during Christmas

I spent such a long time researching for my first Christmas trip to NYC, and I’m guessing you may have the same questions as I used to.

What is the cheapest time to visit New York City during Christmas?

Hotel prices peak in mid-December and right before New Year’s Eve. If you want to save a bit, aim for late November right after Thanksgiving, or the first week of January. You’ll still get Christmas decorations, but the rates are lower.

Which hotel is closest to Rockefeller Center?

If being steps away from the tree and skating rink matters, check out Omni Berkshire Place or Lotte New York Palace. Both are super close to Rockefeller Center.

What is the best affordable hotel for Christmas in NYC?

The cheapest hotel listed here is the NY Moore Hostel which offers single bunk beds starting from $52. For two people, Pod 39 Hotel is a top pick if you want a budget-friendly Midtown stay. You’ll be near Bryant Park Winter Village, Rockefeller Center, and all the festive window displays. Arlo SoHo and Moxy Times Square are also great options that don’t break the bank.

Is it worth staying in Brooklyn for Christmas?

Absolutely. Brooklyn has its own charm with the Dyker Heights lights, Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s Lightscape, and unique holiday markets. You could easily take public transit to different parts of NYC, and it will suit those who have more flexibility in their itinerary for getting around.

What are the best hotels in NYC for Christmas decor?

Yes! From budget-friendly hotels like Moxy to luxury icons like The Plaza, many hotels go all out. Expect lobbies filled with twinkling lights, decorated trees, and festive touches that make your stay extra magical. Here are some notable hotels to check out:

• Lotte New York Palace
• The Plaza Hotel
• The Peninsula New York
• St Regis New York
• The Ritz-Carlton New York

What are the must-see Christmas attractions in New York City?

• Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and ice skating rink
• Saks Fifth Avenue holiday light show
• Bryant Park Winter Village
• Dyker Heights Christmas Lights in Brooklyn
• Radio City Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes

Here’s an idea of what you can do in 3 to 4 days in NYC if you’re on a budget.

Conclusion

Whether you’re after a cozy boutique stay in SoHo, a fun rooftop in Times Square, or a luxury hotel with over-the-top Christmas décor, NYC has a hotel to fit every type of traveler. The key is picking one that matches your priorities, such as budget, location, style, or family-friendly amenities.

It’s also possible that you’ll have more fun in a more expensive hotel, and save by reducing the number of nights. The good hotels are near all the Christmas highlights, so you can actually see and do a lot of things within just 3 to 4 days.