1. Car Service - The Best Way to Travel
For business travel on the company's dime, using a car service is the best way to travel from the airport to Manhattan (and back), mainly because you can pre-schedule your pick-up.Cost: Depending on the company, a luxury sedan will generally cost somewhere between $45 and $55 each way, plus any tolls and tip.
Pros: Service can be pre-arranged (and prepaid), and your ride will be comfortable and hassle-free. Using a car service can save time, as you won't have to wait in cab lines. Because of additional taxi surcharges, a car service may actually save money when compared to cabs.
Cons: Traffic can still be a factor.
2. Taxis - The Next Best Option
From Newark: Catch a taxi outside any terminal, where you will find taxi stands (and lines).Cost:Metered fare (plus tolls) to any Manhattan location, approx. $50-75.
To Newark: You can catch a cab from anywhere in the city simply by flagging one down (cabs cannot be pre-arranged).
Cost:Metered fare plus $15 surcharge and to/from tolls ($69-$75).
Pros: You'll get door-to-door service in a fairly speedy manner without having to navigate subway, train or bus routes.
Cons: Depending on traffic, the trip can take well over an hour. Also, during rush hour or inclement weather, cabs can be hard to come by.
Learn more about NYC taxis.
3. Shuttle - Door-to-Door Bargain
Good if you are traveling in a group, or still want door-to-door service at a cheaper price than a car or taxi. Cost: Depending on which shuttle company you hire, the ride will cost $13 to $20. Plan on about an hour to get you from a midtown point to your terminal, but service may be shorter or longer depending on number of stops.
Pros: Door-to-door service at an affordable price. No navigation required. Online and advance reservations. Great for groups. Many large chain hotels in the city have shuttle arrangements with Go Airlink Shuttle, making booking easy at your hotel concierge.
Cons: Trip will usually take longer than a cab or taxi, as the shuttle may make a few pick-up stops before heading to airport.
4. Public Transportation - Reliable and Cheap
For those comfortable taking NYC subways or trains, AirTran offers a fast, reliable and cheap method for getting to/from Newark International Airport. From any arrival terminal, head to the AirTrain station for a train that will take you to Newark International Airport Station, where you can transfer to a NJ Transit or Amtrak train. Arrive at Penn Station (33rd and 7th Ave). Cost:Via NJ Transit, $11.55 one-way, not including any travel to/from Penn Station.
Pros: Speedy service, no traffic or weather delays, bargain price
Cons: You'll have to make at least one transfer (more if you need to travel to Penn Station). Dealing with your luggage may be cumbersome.