Cheapest way to do New York in December?

[wherewillwegoto]

Looking into a 5 day trip to New York but direct flights seem to be making it very expensive, really don't want to change flights if it can be helped.

We wanted to see the Christmas decorations, so earliest would be last week of November I think.

I've never been before, so no idea what would be a good area to stay, for easy access to main tourist attractions and shops.

Ideally looking for under a thousand pounds each in total incl return flights and accommodation.

If not we'll be going to the canary Islands for some winter sun. So again grateful for hotel recommendations if anyone has been and stayed somewhere they'd recommend for a couple, no children.

How does it feel to live my dream?!!!

I went in December a few years back, it was fun but I wouldn’t do it again, much prefer the warmer months. So much more you can do outside.

Also agree with pp that it’s eye wateringly expensive now.

It’s my 60th birthday present and a no present Christmas to afford it ! It feels amazing 🤩

I went last year and the prices weren’t double, maybe 10-20% more than Uk.

Water was available at all tourist attractions which helped so we didn’t have to buy any.

I didn’t find it insanely expensive either - we went last December.

Prices are not double lol.

Probably around 20-30% more, with the exception of groceries but tourists don’t typically buy those.

Some things are cheaper, like public transport.

Cant think of a better way to celebrate! Have a lovely time 💕

Appreciate it’s a little old now, but OP the main issue is timing, when you’re looking at peak season you’re better off booking in advance. £1000pp is completely doable, but not 6-8 weeks before the date you want to go. If I were you look Jan/Feb time when flights release for Dec 2026. If you look up the deals that have come up on the likes of holiday pirates etc for this year you’ll see there have been lots of opportunity to buy vastly under £1000pp.

The US is expensive these days and eating out isn’t as cheap as it was, especially dining in and tips etc, but we are quite happy with fast and street food in the US, it is completely possible to keep to a low budget in NY.