New York City has the highest public transit ridership in the United States, and for good reason — the subway runs 24/7, buses cover every borough, and walking is often the fastest way to get anywhere in Manhattan below 60th Street. Most locals do not own cars, and many do not even have driver's licenses. But even lifelong New Yorkers hit moments where public transit falls short: a late-night airport run, a formal event in the rain, or a day trip that requires leaving the five boroughs. Understanding when to subway, when to walk, and when to call a car service is a core New York skill.
The Subway: Your Everyday Backbone
The subway is the fastest way to travel long distances within the city. An express train from 14th Street to 42nd Street takes 3 minutes. The same trip by car during rush hour can take 20 minutes. For daily commuting, errands, and getting to most destinations in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens, the subway is unbeatable at $2.90 per ride. The system does have limitations: it runs slower on weekends due to maintenance, crosstown service is limited, and late-night waits can stretch to 15–20 minutes.
When a Car Service Makes Sense
Even dedicated subway riders call a car service for specific situations. Airport trips with luggage, point-to-point transfersduring off-hours, formal events where you do not want to arrive sweaty from a subway platform, and any trip that involves heavy bags or multiple stops. An hourly chauffeur is also ideal for apartment hunting, client tours, or any day with 4+ destinations across different neighborhoods. The key is knowing when the convenience premium is worth it.
For visitors staying more than a few days, a hybrid approach works best: subway and walking for daytime travel, car service for airports, late nights, and outer-borough destinations. Browse available vehicles on the fleet page to find the right option for your needs — from sedans for solo travelers to SUVs for families with luggage.
- Subway: best for daily commuting and distances over 20 blocks
- Walking: fastest for trips under 20 blocks in Manhattan
- Citi Bike: great for crosstown trips and waterfront paths
- Car service: best for airports, late nights, formal events, and multi-stop days
- Ferry: scenic and reliable for routes between Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens waterfront
