lastminute.com.au’s Top Five Hotels in NYC

This article is sponsored by our partner lastminute.com.au.

Ah, New York City. 'The City that Never Sleeps'. 'The Big Apple'. 'The Capital of the World'. Whatever you call it, you know it. Recognised as the cultural capital of America, NYC is a melting pot of peoples from all over the world. It's home to some of the best arts, eateries, events and scenes in the world. Its impressive landmarks make it impossible to be mistaken for any other city. We all know the Brooklyn Bridge, the Empire State Building, and of course, Lady Liberty — even if only from our living rooms. Shows like Sex & the City, movies like When Harry Met Sally and songs such as 'Empire State of Mind', have enraptured most of us with the thrill of New York City.

If you've every wanted to see what the hype is all about but haven't the slightest idea where to go in the mega-metropolis, travel and lifestyle site lastminute.com.au has you covered. They've scouted out a variety of hotels in the city's many unique neighbourhoods, from the Upper East Side's Gossip Girl style to the low-key, artsy Brooklyn vibe. Here are their favourites.

(They're also offering an opportunity for Aussies to 'Win NYE in NYC', so don't miss that.)

The Surrey

Stars: 5
Best for: Classic Upper East Side elegance

Once home to some of New York's most high-profile celebrities — including JFK, Bette Davis and Claudette Colbert — the Surrey is valued for its excellent service and discretion. The hotel also offers the finest amenities, including a private rooftop garden, spa service and gourmet dining. Venture out of your room into the nearby Central Park or shop along Fifth Avenue; the best of Manhattan living is right outside your door.

Affinia Manhattan

Stars: 3.5
Best for: Apartment living in the heart of the mid-town scene

Have bad FOMO? Then this is the place for you. Spot on in the middle of the city, the Affinia Manhattan is centred around all the action. Madison Square Garden, the Empire State Building, Broadway, Times Square, Fifth Avenue shopping and Chelsea art galleries are all just a step away. The Affinia has all the old-school charm of a New York hotel, but with a modern update. So when you’re exhausted from a big day out, relax and enjoy the skyline view from your room.

Sohotel New York

Stars: 2
Best for: Funky slice of downtown with reasonable rates

Located in a unique area of lower Manhattan, the Sohotel is in a prime location for urban adventure. Enjoy world-class shops, historic cultural landmarks, delectable eats or vibrant nightlife on the historic Bowery Boulevard. Or discover the quirky neighbourhoods of Nolita, China Town and Little Italy that give the area some cultural flair. You can enjoy it all because the Sohotel offers some pretty affordable rates. Comfort and style are not compromised though — the hotel is a quirky mix of old and young New York style, which in our opinion just adds to the experience.

The Greenwich Hotel

Stars: 5
Best for: Oasis of calm and luxury in the heart of Tribeca

Planted in the heart of Tribeca, the Greenwich Hotel is a stone's throw from Wall Street, SoHo, the Meatpacking District and Chinatown. But it could be hard to leave the hotel. A true haven for relaxation, the Greenwich features an authentic Japanese spa with a lantern-lit swimming pool, luxurious lounge and treatment rooms — you might start to believe you’re at a retreat rather than a city. Also, the rooms are all so unique, comfortable and liveable that you might want to think about an extended stay.

The Box House Hotel

Stars: 3.5
Best for: Quirky cool in Brooklyn

If you're looking for something a little more offbeat, check out the Box House Hotel in Brooklyn. Located in the industrial chic area of Greenpoint, this hotel offers a variety of quirky and brightly decorated apartments (be sure to request one with a patio or terrace for views of Greenpoint or the Manhattan skyline). A short walking distance to some of Brooklyn's best restaurants and bars, the Box House Hotel offers an authentic Brooklyn experience that's anything but boring.