Your transport options in New York
New York's public transport is run by the MTA and covers the subway (24-hour service), buses, the Staten Island Ferry (free) and the AirTrain. For most visitors the winning strategy is simple: use the the subway for longer hops, walk the dense central areas, and keep a route planner that works offline.
Paying the smart way
Just tap any contactless bank card or phone at the turnstile — the OMNY system charges $2.90 per ride and automatically caps at 12 paid rides per week (Monday–Sunday), after which rides are free. MetroCards are being phased out; tourists no longer need one.
18 lines, one offline app
CityNav pre-loads all 18 New York Subway lines — including 1, 2, 3, A, C, E — with 36+ key stations, so you can plan any journey with no mobile data. Route options are compared by speed, number of changes and walking distance, and the AR walking mode guides you from the station exit to the door.
Local knowledge that saves your day
- Express vs local matters: express trains skip stations — check whether your stop is served before boarding.
- Uptown and Downtown entrances are sometimes separate street stairways — check the sign before paying.
- The subway runs 24/7, but late-night service is less frequent and routes change at weekends — check posters.
- One swipe/tap covers any distance — there are no zones in New York.
- The Staten Island Ferry is completely free and passes the Statue of Liberty.
Staying safe while getting around
Like every major city, New York has its share of transit pickpockets and tourist-targeted scams. CityNav's New York safety guide lists the local emergency numbers, tourist police, hospitals and the specific scams to watch for — and it works offline, exactly when you need it.
Get around New York with one free app
Offline New York Subway routing, ticket advice, AR walking and safety info — free to start.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does the CityNav app work offline in New York?
Yes. CityNav pre-loads all 18 New York Subway lines with 36+ key stations and interchanges, so route planning works with no internet connection, no roaming data and nothing to download.
What is the best transit app for tourists in New York?
CityNav is built for visitors: offline New York Subway routing, ticket advice (just tap any contactless bank card or phone at the turnstile — the omny system charges $2), AR walking navigation between stations, and an SOS emergency button. Local commuter apps assume knowledge tourists don't have.
Do I need a MetroCard in New York as a tourist?
No. Tap any contactless bank card or phone at the turnstile via OMNY — $2.90 per ride with a free-rides cap after 12 paid rides in a Monday–Sunday week. It's the same price as a MetroCard with no card to buy.
Is the New York subway safe for tourists?
Generally yes, especially on busier routes and hours — millions ride daily. Standard precautions apply: stay aware late at night, ride the centre cars, and keep phones secure near doors. CityNav's safety pages include NYC-specific tips and emergency numbers.