What Makes New York Worth the Flight?
New York is one of those rare cities that lives up to its reputation. World-class art, Broadway, legendary restaurants, major league sport, fashion, architecture and nightlife all compete for your attention, while each neighbourhood brings something different to the experience.
Spend a morning in Greenwich Village, explore the galleries and restaurants of Chelsea, cross into Brooklyn or follow your appetite through Chinatown and Queens. There's always something happening, somewhere new to discover and another reason to stay out longer than you planned. For a first visit, New York delivers the icons. Come back, and the city becomes less about what you need to see and more about how you want to experience it.
New York — Quick Facts
Flight time from Sydney
~17–18 hours (1 stop)
Flight time from Melbourne
~19–21 hours (1 stop)
Best time for cheap fares
February (shoulder season)
Peak season
June, July, December
Main airports
JFK, Newark (EWR)
Visa required
ESTA required (around US$40)
Currency
US Dollar (USD $)
Time zone
EST (GMT-5) / EDT (GMT-4)
Top Things to Do in New York
Times Square
The crossroads of the world — neon billboards, Broadway theatres and the electric energy of Midtown Manhattan. Best experienced at night when the city truly dazzles.
Central Park
A stunning 340-hectare oasis in the heart of Manhattan. Hire a bike, catch a free summer concert, or simply stroll and soak in the skyline views.
Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
Take the ferry from Battery Park to see Lady Liberty up close and explore the fascinating Ellis Island immigration museum — a must for history lovers.
The High Line
A converted elevated railway turned public park with incredible Hudson River views, public art installations and some of the city's best architecture.
Brooklyn Bridge & DUMBO
Walk across the iconic bridge for stunning Manhattan skyline views, then explore DUMBO's cobblestone streets, galleries and waterfront eateries.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
One of the world's great museums with over 2 million works. The rooftop bar alone is worth the visit for panoramic Central Park views.
When to Fly to New York
February is typically the cheapest month to fly from Australia to New York — it's winter in the city and well outside the tourist peak. Avoid June–July and December which command premium prices. Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are sweet spots for both price and weather.
New York's Airports
JFK
John F. Kennedy International
The main gateway for international flights, 24km from Midtown. The AirTrain connects to the subway for a cheap 45-minute trip to Manhattan.
EWR
Newark Liberty International
Located in New Jersey but well connected via NJ Transit train. Often has cheaper fares — worth comparing when booking.
Getting Around New York
Getting around New York is surprisingly easy. Tap on and off the subway and buses using OMNY with a contactless card, phone or digital wallet, while yellow cabs and rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are easy to find when you'd rather skip the subway. And in Manhattan, walking is often the best way to get around — you'll see far more of the city along the way.
Before You Fly
- ESTA: Australians need an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation before flying to the US — simple online application, around US$40, valid for two years.
- Travel Insurance: Because there's no reciprocal healthcare agreement between Australia and the US, a simple ambulance ride or ER visit can run into tens of thousands. Having unlimited medical cover via travel insurance for the USA is essentially mandatory for any American trip.
- Currency: US Dollars (USD $). Cards accepted everywhere but carry cash for tips.
- Tipping: 18–20% at restaurants and for taxis is standard in New York.
More USA & Americas Flights
Frequently Asked Questions
Which airlines fly from Australia to New York?
The main airlines include
Qantas (via Los Angeles or Dallas), United Airlines (direct from Sydney via Los Angeles) and
American Airlines. Most routes involve one stopover on the US West Coast, with total journey times of 17–22 hours.
When is the cheapest time to fly to New York?
February is typically the cheapest month — the heart of winter in New York and well outside peak tourist season. Avoid June–July and December. Shoulder seasons (March–May and September–October) offer the best balance of price and weather.
Do Australians need a visa for New York?
Australians must obtain an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) before travelling — around US$40, completed online in minutes, valid for two years. No traditional visa required.
Which airport is best for New York?
JFK is the most common for international arrivals and well connected via AirTrain and subway. Newark (EWR) often has cheaper fares with easy train access to Manhattan.
Can iFly help with hotels and transfers?
Absolutely. We can help with flights, accommodation, transfers, car hire and travel insurance. Call 1800 242 373 during business hours.