Getting Around New York City: Subway, Bus, Taxi & Bike Guide (2025)

The NYC subway is the fastest and cheapest way to get around New York. Here's a complete guide to the subway, buses, taxis, ferries, and Citi Bike in 2025.

The New York City subway is the backbone of the city — 472 stations, 24/7 operation, and just $2.90 per ride. For most Manhattan journeys, it's faster than any taxi or Uber. The outer boroughs (Brooklyn, Queens) are equally well-served.

NYC Transport Options & Costs (2025)

Navigating the Subway

The NYC subway uses both letters and numbers to identify lines — the A, C, E train runs from JFK (via AirTrain) to Midtown and Lower Manhattan. The 4, 5, 6 runs the east side of Manhattan; the 1, 2, 3 runs the west side. The L train connects Manhattan's 14th Street to Brooklyn's Williamsburg. Use Google Maps or Citymapper — both give real-time service alerts and the fastest route. OMNY is the tap-to-pay system (contactless card or phone): tap at any turnstile, no MetroCard needed. The 7-day unlimited MetroCard ($34) is better value if you're doing 4+ rides per day.