While taxis are very common in New York City, public transportation offers a convenient and more economical way to get around the city. Get a MetroCard, a reusable card that allows you to use the underground and buses. This will not only help you save money but also avoid traffic jams.
Underground
The New York City Subway (MTA) is the most popular and convenient public transportation system in the city. The underground fare is $2.75 per trip and you can transfer to other lines at no extra charge within the two-hour time window. To save money on your underground fare, it is recommended that you buy a MetroCard. MetroCard is a reusable card that you can top up and use to pay for travel on the metro and buses. You can buy the MetroCard at underground stations or automatic vending machines located throughout the city.
MTA website
Buses
Buses are also a convenient way to get around the city. Buses also cost $2.75 per trip, and you can use your MetroCard to pay. Buses do not take cash, so make sure you have enough money on your MetroCard.
Railways
New York City also has an extensive rail network, which connects the city to the suburbs and neighbouring states. Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) offers service to East and South New York, while Metro-North Railroad serves destinations north of the city. The fares on these railways vary from destination to destination and it is recommended that you check the official websites for accurate information.
Taxis and taxi apps
If you need to use taxi services, companies like Yellow Cab and Green Cab are popular in New York City. To order a taxi, you can hail one on the street or use a taxi booking app such as Uber or Lyft. Taxi prices vary depending on the distance and time of the trip.
Uber website
Lyft website
Taxi subscriptions and special programs are also available in New York City, which can be useful for tourists to save on fares. Here are some of them:
NYC Taxi e-Hail
The NYC Taxi e-Hail subscription allows you to prepay a certain number of taxi rides in advance with a fixed cost. You can choose 10, 20, 30 or 40 rides and it is valid for the Yellow Cabs in NYC. To buy this subscription, you can visit the official NYC Taxi e-Hail website.
NYC Taxi e-Hail website
Uber Pass
Uber offers a program called Uber Pass, which offers a number of benefits and discounts for regular users. As part of this programme, you will receive free food delivery from Uber Eats, discounts on Uber rides and access to exclusive offers. To sign up for Uber Pass, visit the Uber website.
Uber Pass website
Lyft Pink
Lyft offers a similar programme called Lyft Pink, which also offers a number of benefits and discounts for regular users. By signing up for Lyft Pink, you will get a discount on rides, free food delivery from Lyft and other benefits. To find out more and sign up for Lyft Pink, visit the Lyft website.
Lyft Pink website
Please note that prices for subscriptions and special programmes are subject to change, so it is advisable to visit the official websites of these companies for up-to-date information on prices and conditions.
Bicycles and electric scooters
In recent years, modes of transport such as city bikes and electric scooters have become popular in New York City. Citi Bike offers self-service bike rentals throughout the city. You can rent a bike for a few hours or a whole day and enjoy a ride around the city. Various electric scooter services are also available, giving you a quick and comfortable way to get around the city streets.
Citi Bike website
I hope this information will be useful during your stay in New York, and that you can make the most of public transportation to see and enjoy all that this wonderful city has to offer.
