The “Big Apple” is undoubtedly one of the world’s most exciting cities, attracting an estimated 46 million visitors in a typical year. If you are arriving by air, one of your first concerns may be how to get from the airport into the city – whether your destination is a hotel, apartment building or office. New York car service and limo services are affordable, reliable and are regulated by the NY Taxi and Limousine Commission.

Finding a car or limo company is easy – there are an estimated 1,500 or so car and limo companies in New York. You can find them listed in the phone book, on our directory, as well as at any of the three main NYC airports. (JFK, LaGuardia and Newark) Most car service companies offer transport between the airports and not only Manhattan, but the other four boroughs, as well as to what is known as the tri-state area – New York, New Jersey and Connecticut.

Limos and hire cars are generally slightly more expensive than regular taxis, although there are several advantages – they can be booked and paid for in advance, using them avoids long lines and they usually pick up indoors, or at the airport baggage claim. And unlike a New York taxi, they can accommodate more than four people. Limo drivers are generally professional, courteous and knowledgeable.

The cost of a limo service between New York and one of the airports varies, depending on the type of vehicle you choose, whether you have extra luggage and exactly where in the city you are going. A one way trip can cost as little as $40 to $50 – the rates generally don’t include gratuities, waiting time, and toll fees. You can avoid toll fees by asking your driver to take or avoid a specific route.

Your choice of airport can make a big difference to the cost and length of your ground journey. Newark is the furthest away of the three major airports – about 15 miles – but is generally a little bit more convenient if your hotel is located in Downtown or Midtown west Manhattan. And car service to and from Newark is often slightly cheaper than going to or from JFK or LaGuardia airports.

Cars can also be hired by the hour to transport you around New York – an affordable alternative to bus or subway, especially for several people traveling together. Hourly rates begin at around $50 – again, depending on what type of vehicle you hire. If you aren’t sure what you want to see and do – leave it up to the limo company. They will make sure you don’t miss anything in one of the world’s greatest cities.