| Document and Entity Information | Dec. 17, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | NEW YORK TIMES CO |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000071691 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Dec. 17, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | NY |
| Entity File Number | 1-5837 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 13-1102020 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 620 Eighth Avenue |
| Entity Address, City or Town | New York |
| Entity Address, State or Province | NY |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 10018 |
| City Area Code | (212) |
| Local Phone Number | 556-1234 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Class A Common Stock |
| Trading Symbol | NYT |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
