Brooklyn is New York’s most populous borough, with a rich history and vibrant cultural scene. Once an independent city, it became part of New York in 1898. Famous for its diverse neighbourhoods, such as Williamsburg and DUMBO, Brooklyn is a creative and artistic centre with galleries, festivals and a vibrant music scene. Its cultural diversity and heritage make it a must-see destination for visitors.
Finding your way around Brooklyn
Brooklyn is located southeast of Manhattan, between the East River and the Atlantic Ocean. Bordered by Queens to the north and Long Island to the west, the borough covers a vast area offering a wide variety of urban and residential landscapes. Brooklyn’s coastline is home to beaches, notably at Coney Island, while parks such as Prospect Park bring vast green spaces to the heart of the borough. To get your bearings, it’s useful to know the main thoroughfares, such as Flatbush Avenue, which crosses Brooklyn from south to north, and Atlantic Avenue, which links the north of the borough to the east.
Public transport, particularly the metro, is essential for getting around Brooklyn easily. The L, A, C, G and F lines serve the borough well, providing a quick link between Manhattan and the various districts of Brooklyn. You can also take local buses, and for a more scenic option, the East River Ferry offers stunning views while connecting Brooklyn to Manhattan and Queens.
Brooklyn’s tourism development has boomed in recent years, attracting increasing numbers of visitors thanks to its unique blend of culture, art and history. Once-residential neighbourhoods such as Williamsburg and DUMBO have become artistic and gastronomic hubs, offering galleries, trendy restaurants and boutiques. And iconic attractions such as the Brooklyn Bridge and Prospect Park continue to attract millions of visitors. Brooklyn’s revival, supported by a vibrant cultural scene, makes it a must-see destination for tourists looking for an authentic experience.
Brooklyn’s most popular tourist areas
Williamsburg
Bushwick
Dumbo
Brooklyn Heights
Park Slope
Dyker Heights
Coney Island
Popular Brooklyn activities
Brooklyn offers a fascinating mix of history, culture and sports. The Brooklyn Museum, one of New York’s largest art museums, houses a collection ranging from Egyptian to contemporary art. The New York Transit Museum, located in a former underground station, offers a glimpse into the history of the city’s public transport system.
On the sports front, the Brooklyn Nets NBA team plays its home games at the Barclays Center, a must for basketball and concert fans. Brooklyn combines art, culture and modern entertainment. Coney Island, famous for its amusement park and beaches, is an iconic entertainment spot.
The 6 most visited attractions in Brooklyn
Brooklyn Bridge
Brooklyn Museum
New York Aquarium
New York Transit Museum
Brooklyn Botanic Garden
NBA at the Barclays Center
A cheaper hotel in Brooklyn?
To find cheaper hotels in Brooklyn, it’s useful to know the neighbourhoods where prices can vary. DUMBO, Williamsburg and Brooklyn Heights are popular and expensive areas, because of their proximity to Manhattan and their trendy atmosphere. For a more cost-effective stay, you should also avoid neighbourhoods that are poorly served by the underground, such as parts of Red Hook and Marine Park, where transport options are limited.
Instead, opt for well-located budget areas such as Bed-Stuy, Crown Heights, or Sunset Park. Not only are these areas more affordable, but they are also well served by the underground, providing easy access to Manhattan and other Brooklyn attractions. The A, C and R underground lines will quickly connect you to the main points of interest.
The recently opened Liberty View Brooklyn Hotel in Sunset Park is a great option for travellers looking for affordable accommodation in Brooklyn. With overnight stays starting at around €150, this hotel offers modern and comfortable rooms, perfect for those looking to explore Brooklyn and Manhattan on a budget. Located in an area well served by the underground, it provides easy access to major attractions while offering stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the New York skyline.
