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Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Total
Series L Preferred Stock [Member]
Series K Preferred Stock [Member]
Series E Preferred Stock [Member]
Series F And Series H Preferred Stock [Member]
Real Estate Fund [Member]
All Other Except Real Estate Fund [Member]
Preferred Shares
Preferred Shares
Series L Preferred Stock [Member]
Preferred Shares
Series K Preferred Stock [Member]
Preferred Shares
Series E Preferred Stock [Member]
Preferred Shares
Series F And Series H Preferred Stock [Member]
Common Shares
Additional Capital
Earnings Less Than Distributions
Earnings Less Than Distributions
Series F And Series H Preferred Stock [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Non-controlling Interests
Non-controlling Interests
Real Estate Fund [Member]
Non-controlling Interests
All Other Except Real Estate Fund [Member]
Beginning balance, Value at Dec. 31, 2011 $ 7,508,447us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest             $ 1,021,660us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_PreferredStockMember
        $ 7,373us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
$ 7,127,258us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
$ (1,401,704)us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
  $ 73,729us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
$ 680,131us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember
   
Beginning balance, Shares at Dec. 31, 2011               42,187us-gaap_SharesOutstanding
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_PreferredStockMember
        185,080us-gaap_SharesOutstanding
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
             
Net income attributable to Vornado 617,260us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss                           617,260us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
         
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests in consolidated subsidiaries 32,018us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestInNetIncomeLossJointVenturePartnersNonredeemable         39,332us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestInNetIncomeLossJointVenturePartnersNonredeemable
/ us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RealEstateFundsMember
                      32,018us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestInNetIncomeLossJointVenturePartnersNonredeemable
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember
   
Dividends on common shares, Value (699,318)us-gaap_DividendsCommonStock                           (699,318)us-gaap_DividendsCommonStock
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
         
Dividends on preferred shares, Value (76,937)us-gaap_DividendsPreferredStock                           (76,937)us-gaap_DividendsPreferredStock
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
         
Issuance of preferred shares, Shares                   12,000us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues
/ us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis
= vno_SeriesKPreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_PreferredStockMember
                   
Issuance of preferred shares, Value     290,971us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues
/ us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis
= vno_SeriesKPreferredStockMember
            290,971us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues
/ us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis
= vno_SeriesKPreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_PreferredStockMember
                   
Redemption of preferred shares, Shares                     (3,000)us-gaap_StockRedeemedOrCalledDuringPeriodShares
/ us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesEPreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_PreferredStockMember
                 
Redemption of preferred shares, Value       (72,248)us-gaap_StockRedeemedOrCalledDuringPeriodValue
/ us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesEPreferredStockMember
            (72,248)us-gaap_StockRedeemedOrCalledDuringPeriodValue
/ us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesEPreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_PreferredStockMember
                 
Common shares issued:                                        
Upon redemption of Class A units, at redemption value, Shares                         1,121us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesConversionOfUnits
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
             
Upon redemption of Class A units, at redemption value, Value 89,762us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfUnits                       45us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfUnits
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
89,717us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfUnits
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
           
Under Omnibus share plan, Shares                         434us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
             
Under Omnibus share plan, Value (6,850)us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan                       18us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
9,521us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
(16,389)us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
         
Under dividend reinvestment plan, Shares                         29us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesDividendReinvestmentPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
             
Under dividend reinvestment plan, Value 2,307us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueDividendReinvestmentPlan                       1us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueDividendReinvestmentPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
2,306us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueDividendReinvestmentPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
           
Upon acquisition of real estate, Shares                         64us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesAcquisitions
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
             
Upon acquisition of real estate, Value 5,124us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueAcquisitions                       3us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueAcquisitions
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
5,121us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueAcquisitions
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
           
Contributions:                                        
Contributions           195,029vno_NoncontrollingInterestIncreaseFromLimitedPartnersContribution
/ us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RealEstateFundsMember
18,103vno_NoncontrollingInterestIncreaseFromLimitedPartnersContribution
/ us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis
= vno_AllOtherExceptRealEstateFundMember
                      195,029vno_NoncontrollingInterestIncreaseFromLimitedPartnersContribution
/ us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RealEstateFundsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember
18,103vno_NoncontrollingInterestIncreaseFromLimitedPartnersContribution
/ us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis
= vno_AllOtherExceptRealEstateFundMember
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember
Distribution:                                        
Distributions           (48,138)us-gaap_MinorityInterestDecreaseFromDistributionsToNoncontrollingInterestHolders
/ us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RealEstateFundsMember
(59)us-gaap_MinorityInterestDecreaseFromDistributionsToNoncontrollingInterestHolders
/ us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis
= vno_AllOtherExceptRealEstateFundMember
                      (48,138)us-gaap_MinorityInterestDecreaseFromDistributionsToNoncontrollingInterestHolders
/ us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RealEstateFundsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember
(59)us-gaap_MinorityInterestDecreaseFromDistributionsToNoncontrollingInterestHolders
/ us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis
= vno_AllOtherExceptRealEstateFundMember
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember
Transfer of noncontrolling interest in Real Estate Fund 0vno_TransferOfNoncontrollingInterest                                      
Conversion Of Series A preferred shares to common shares, Shares               (2)us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesConversionOfConvertibleSecurities
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_PreferredStockMember
        3us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesConversionOfConvertibleSecurities
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
             
Conversion of Series A preferred shares to common shares, Value 0us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfConvertibleSecurities             (105)us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfConvertibleSecurities
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_PreferredStockMember
        0us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfConvertibleSecurities
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
105us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfConvertibleSecurities
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
           
Deferred compensation shares and options, Shares                         4us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesShareBasedCompensation
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
             
Deferred compensation shares and options, Value 13,054us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation                       0us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
13,527us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
(473)us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
         
Change in unrealized net gain (loss) on securities available-for-sale (283,649)us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedHoldingGainLossOnSecuritiesArisingDuringPeriodNetOfTax                               (283,649)us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedHoldingGainLossOnSecuritiesArisingDuringPeriodNetOfTax
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
     
Non-cash impairment loss on J.C. Penney common shares 224,937us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossReclassificationAdjustmentFromAOCIForWritedownOfSecuritiesNetOfTax                               224,937us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossReclassificationAdjustmentFromAOCIForWritedownOfSecuritiesNetOfTax
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
     
Amounts reclassified related to sale of available-for-sale securities (3,582)us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossReclassificationAdjustmentFromAOCIForSaleOfSecuritiesNetOfTax                               (3,582)us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossReclassificationAdjustmentFromAOCIForSaleOfSecuritiesNetOfTax
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
     
Pro rata share of other comprehensive income (loss) of nonconsolidated subsidiaries (31,758)vno_OurShareOfPartiallyOwnedEntitiesOciAdjustments                               (31,758)vno_OurShareOfPartiallyOwnedEntitiesOciAdjustments
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
     
Change in value of interest rate swap (5,659)us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossDerivativesQualifyingAsHedgesNetOfTax                               (5,659)us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossDerivativesQualifyingAsHedgesNetOfTax
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
     
Adjustments to carry redeemable Class A units at redemption value (52,117)us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalConvertibleDebtWithConversionFeature                         (52,117)us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalConvertibleDebtWithConversionFeature
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
           
Redeemable noncontrolling interests' share of above adjustments 6,707us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest                               6,707us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
     
Preferred unit and share redemptions 8,948us-gaap_PreferredStockRedemptionDiscount                           8,948us-gaap_PreferredStockRedemptionDiscount
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
         
Consolidation of a partially owned entity 176,132us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestIncreaseFromBusinessCombination                                 176,132us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestIncreaseFromBusinessCombination
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember
   
Other (4,340)us-gaap_StockholdersEquityOther             0us-gaap_StockholdersEquityOther
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_PreferredStockMember
          0us-gaap_StockholdersEquityOther
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
(4,662)us-gaap_StockholdersEquityOther
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
  329us-gaap_StockholdersEquityOther
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
(7)us-gaap_StockholdersEquityOther
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember
   
Ending balance, Value at Dec. 31, 2012 7,904,144us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest             1,240,278us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_PreferredStockMember
        7,440us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
7,195,438us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
(1,573,275)us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
  (18,946)us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
1,053,209us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember
   
Ending balance, Shares at Dec. 31, 2012               51,185us-gaap_SharesOutstanding
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_PreferredStockMember
        186,735us-gaap_SharesOutstanding
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
             
Net income attributable to Vornado 475,971us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss                           475,971us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
         
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests in consolidated subsidiaries 63,952us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestInNetIncomeLossJointVenturePartnersNonredeemable         53,427us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestInNetIncomeLossJointVenturePartnersNonredeemable
/ us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RealEstateFundsMember
                      63,952us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestInNetIncomeLossJointVenturePartnersNonredeemable
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember
   
Dividends on common shares, Value (545,913)us-gaap_DividendsCommonStock                           (545,913)us-gaap_DividendsCommonStock
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
         
Dividends on preferred shares, Value (82,807)us-gaap_DividendsPreferredStock                           (82,807)us-gaap_DividendsPreferredStock
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
         
Issuance of preferred shares, Shares                 12,000us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues
/ us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis
= vno_SeriesLPreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_PreferredStockMember
                     
Issuance of preferred shares, Value   290,306us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues
/ us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis
= vno_SeriesLPreferredStockMember
            290,306us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues
/ us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis
= vno_SeriesLPreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_PreferredStockMember
                     
Redemption of preferred shares, Shares                       (10,500)us-gaap_StockRedeemedOrCalledDuringPeriodShares
/ us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis
= vno_SeriesFAndSeriesHPreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_PreferredStockMember
               
Redemption of preferred shares, Value         (253,269)us-gaap_StockRedeemedOrCalledDuringPeriodValue
/ us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis
= vno_SeriesFAndSeriesHPreferredStockMember
            (253,269)us-gaap_StockRedeemedOrCalledDuringPeriodValue
/ us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis
= vno_SeriesFAndSeriesHPreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_PreferredStockMember
      0us-gaap_StockRedeemedOrCalledDuringPeriodValue
/ us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis
= vno_SeriesFAndSeriesHPreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
       
Common shares issued:                                        
Upon redemption of Class A units, at redemption value, Shares                         299us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesConversionOfUnits
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
             
Upon redemption of Class A units, at redemption value, Value 25,317us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfUnits                       12us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfUnits
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
25,305us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfUnits
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
           
Under Omnibus share plan, Shares                         104us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
             
Under Omnibus share plan, Value 5,808us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan                       23us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
5,892us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
(107)us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
         
Under dividend reinvestment plan, Shares                         22us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesDividendReinvestmentPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
             
Under dividend reinvestment plan, Value 1,851us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueDividendReinvestmentPlan                       1us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueDividendReinvestmentPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
1,850us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueDividendReinvestmentPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
           
Upon acquisition of real estate, Shares                         128us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesAcquisitions
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
             
Upon acquisition of real estate, Value 11,461us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueAcquisitions                       5us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueAcquisitions
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
11,456us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueAcquisitions
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
           
Contributions:                                        
Contributions           28,078vno_NoncontrollingInterestIncreaseFromLimitedPartnersContribution
/ us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RealEstateFundsMember
15,886vno_NoncontrollingInterestIncreaseFromLimitedPartnersContribution
/ us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis
= vno_AllOtherExceptRealEstateFundMember
                      28,078vno_NoncontrollingInterestIncreaseFromLimitedPartnersContribution
/ us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RealEstateFundsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember
15,886vno_NoncontrollingInterestIncreaseFromLimitedPartnersContribution
/ us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis
= vno_AllOtherExceptRealEstateFundMember
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember
Distribution:                                        
Distributions (34,053)us-gaap_MinorityInterestDecreaseFromDistributionsToNoncontrollingInterestHolders         (47,268)us-gaap_MinorityInterestDecreaseFromDistributionsToNoncontrollingInterestHolders
/ us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RealEstateFundsMember
(133,153)us-gaap_MinorityInterestDecreaseFromDistributionsToNoncontrollingInterestHolders
/ us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis
= vno_AllOtherExceptRealEstateFundMember
                      (47,268)us-gaap_MinorityInterestDecreaseFromDistributionsToNoncontrollingInterestHolders
/ us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RealEstateFundsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember
(133,153)us-gaap_MinorityInterestDecreaseFromDistributionsToNoncontrollingInterestHolders
/ us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis
= vno_AllOtherExceptRealEstateFundMember
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember
Transfer of noncontrolling interest in Real Estate Fund 0vno_TransferOfNoncontrollingInterest                                      
Conversion Of Series A preferred shares to common shares, Shares               (2)us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesConversionOfConvertibleSecurities
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_PreferredStockMember
        3us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesConversionOfConvertibleSecurities
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
             
Conversion of Series A preferred shares to common shares, Value 0us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfConvertibleSecurities             (90)us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfConvertibleSecurities
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_PreferredStockMember
        0us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfConvertibleSecurities
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
90us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfConvertibleSecurities
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
           
Deferred compensation shares and options, Shares                         (6)us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesShareBasedCompensation
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
             
Deferred compensation shares and options, Value 9,270us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation                       (12)us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
9,589us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
(307)us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
         
Change in unrealized net gain (loss) on securities available-for-sale 142,281us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedHoldingGainLossOnSecuritiesArisingDuringPeriodNetOfTax                               142,281us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedHoldingGainLossOnSecuritiesArisingDuringPeriodNetOfTax
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
     
Non-cash impairment loss on J.C. Penney common shares 0us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossReclassificationAdjustmentFromAOCIForWritedownOfSecuritiesNetOfTax                                      
Amounts reclassified related to sale of available-for-sale securities (42,404)us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossReclassificationAdjustmentFromAOCIForSaleOfSecuritiesNetOfTax                               (42,404)us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossReclassificationAdjustmentFromAOCIForSaleOfSecuritiesNetOfTax
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
     
Pro rata share of other comprehensive income (loss) of nonconsolidated subsidiaries (22,814)vno_OurShareOfPartiallyOwnedEntitiesOciAdjustments                               (22,814)vno_OurShareOfPartiallyOwnedEntitiesOciAdjustments
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
     
Change in value of interest rate swap 18,183us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossDerivativesQualifyingAsHedgesNetOfTax                               18,183us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossDerivativesQualifyingAsHedgesNetOfTax
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
     
Adjustments to carry redeemable Class A units at redemption value (108,252)us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalConvertibleDebtWithConversionFeature                         (108,252)us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalConvertibleDebtWithConversionFeature
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
           
Redeemable noncontrolling interests' share of above adjustments (5,296)us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest                               (5,296)us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
     
Preferred unit and share redemptions (1,130)us-gaap_PreferredStockRedemptionDiscount                           (1,130)us-gaap_PreferredStockRedemptionDiscount
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
         
Deconsolidation of partially owned entity (165,427)us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestDecreaseFromDeconsolidation                                 (165,427)us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestDecreaseFromDeconsolidation
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember
   
Consolidation of a partially owned entity 16,799us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestIncreaseFromBusinessCombination                                 16,799us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestIncreaseFromBusinessCombination
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember
   
Other (6,830)us-gaap_StockholdersEquityOther                         2,472us-gaap_StockholdersEquityOther
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
(7,271)us-gaap_StockholdersEquityOther
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
  533us-gaap_StockholdersEquityOther
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
(2,564)us-gaap_StockholdersEquityOther
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember
   
Ending balance, Value at Dec. 31, 2013 7,594,744us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest             1,277,225us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_PreferredStockMember
        7,469us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
7,143,840us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
(1,734,839)us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
  71,537us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
829,512us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember
   
Ending balance, Shares at Dec. 31, 2013               52,683us-gaap_SharesOutstanding
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_PreferredStockMember
        187,285us-gaap_SharesOutstanding
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
             
Net income attributable to Vornado 864,852us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss                           864,852us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
         
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests in consolidated subsidiaries 96,561us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestInNetIncomeLossJointVenturePartnersNonredeemable         92,728us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestInNetIncomeLossJointVenturePartnersNonredeemable
/ us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RealEstateFundsMember
                      96,561us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestInNetIncomeLossJointVenturePartnersNonredeemable
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember
   
Dividends on common shares, Value (547,831)us-gaap_DividendsCommonStock                           (547,831)us-gaap_DividendsCommonStock
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
         
Dividends on preferred shares, Value (81,464)us-gaap_DividendsPreferredStock                           (81,464)us-gaap_DividendsPreferredStock
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
         
Common shares issued:                                        
Upon redemption of Class A units, at redemption value, Shares                         271us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesConversionOfUnits
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
             
Upon redemption of Class A units, at redemption value, Value 27,273us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfUnits                       11us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfUnits
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
27,262us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfUnits
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
           
Under Omnibus share plan, Shares                         304us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
             
Under Omnibus share plan, Value 14,047us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan                       12us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
17,428us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
(3,393)us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
         
Under dividend reinvestment plan, Shares                         17us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesDividendReinvestmentPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
             
Under dividend reinvestment plan, Value 1,804us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueDividendReinvestmentPlan                       1us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueDividendReinvestmentPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
1,803us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueDividendReinvestmentPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
0us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueDividendReinvestmentPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
         
Contributions:                                        
Contributions           5,297vno_NoncontrollingInterestIncreaseFromLimitedPartnersContribution
/ us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RealEstateFundsMember
32,998vno_NoncontrollingInterestIncreaseFromLimitedPartnersContribution
/ us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis
= vno_AllOtherExceptRealEstateFundMember
                      5,297vno_NoncontrollingInterestIncreaseFromLimitedPartnersContribution
/ us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RealEstateFundsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember
32,998vno_NoncontrollingInterestIncreaseFromLimitedPartnersContribution
/ us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis
= vno_AllOtherExceptRealEstateFundMember
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember
Distribution:                                        
Distributions (33,469)us-gaap_MinorityInterestDecreaseFromDistributionsToNoncontrollingInterestHolders         (182,964)us-gaap_MinorityInterestDecreaseFromDistributionsToNoncontrollingInterestHolders
/ us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RealEstateFundsMember
(4,463)us-gaap_MinorityInterestDecreaseFromDistributionsToNoncontrollingInterestHolders
/ us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis
= vno_AllOtherExceptRealEstateFundMember
                      (182,964)us-gaap_MinorityInterestDecreaseFromDistributionsToNoncontrollingInterestHolders
/ us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RealEstateFundsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember
(4,463)us-gaap_MinorityInterestDecreaseFromDistributionsToNoncontrollingInterestHolders
/ us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis
= vno_AllOtherExceptRealEstateFundMember
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember
Transfer of noncontrolling interest in Real Estate Fund (33,028)vno_TransferOfNoncontrollingInterest                                 (33,028)vno_TransferOfNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember
   
Conversion Of Series A preferred shares to common shares, Shares               (4)us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesConversionOfConvertibleSecurities
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_PreferredStockMember
        5us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesConversionOfConvertibleSecurities
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
             
Conversion of Series A preferred shares to common shares, Value 0us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfConvertibleSecurities             (193)us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfConvertibleSecurities
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_PreferredStockMember
          193us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfConvertibleSecurities
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
           
Deferred compensation shares and options, Shares                         5us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesShareBasedCompensation
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
             
Deferred compensation shares and options, Value 5,512us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation                       0us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
5,852us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
(340)us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
         
Change in unrealized net gain (loss) on securities available-for-sale 14,465us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedHoldingGainLossOnSecuritiesArisingDuringPeriodNetOfTax                               14,465us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedHoldingGainLossOnSecuritiesArisingDuringPeriodNetOfTax
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
     
Non-cash impairment loss on J.C. Penney common shares 0us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossReclassificationAdjustmentFromAOCIForWritedownOfSecuritiesNetOfTax                                      
Amounts reclassified related to sale of available-for-sale securities 0us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossReclassificationAdjustmentFromAOCIForSaleOfSecuritiesNetOfTax                                      
Pro rata share of other comprehensive income (loss) of nonconsolidated subsidiaries 2,509vno_OurShareOfPartiallyOwnedEntitiesOciAdjustments                               2,509vno_OurShareOfPartiallyOwnedEntitiesOciAdjustments
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
     
Change in value of interest rate swap 6,079us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossDerivativesQualifyingAsHedgesNetOfTax                               6,079us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossDerivativesQualifyingAsHedgesNetOfTax
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
     
Adjustments to carry redeemable Class A units at redemption value (315,276)us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalConvertibleDebtWithConversionFeature                         (315,276)us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalConvertibleDebtWithConversionFeature
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
           
Redeemable noncontrolling interests' share of above adjustments (1,323)us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest                               (1,323)us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
     
Preferred unit and share redemptions 0us-gaap_PreferredStockRedemptionDiscount                                      
Other (10,410)us-gaap_StockholdersEquityOther             (6)us-gaap_StockholdersEquityOther
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_PreferredStockMember
          (8,077)us-gaap_StockholdersEquityOther
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
(2,370)us-gaap_StockholdersEquityOther
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
  0us-gaap_StockholdersEquityOther
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
43us-gaap_StockholdersEquityOther
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember
   
Ending balance, Value at Dec. 31, 2014 $ 7,489,382us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest             $ 1,277,026us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_PreferredStockMember
        $ 7,493us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
$ 6,873,025us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
$ (1,505,385)us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
  $ 93,267us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
$ 743,956us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember
   
Ending balance, Shares at Dec. 31, 2014               52,679us-gaap_SharesOutstanding
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_PreferredStockMember
        187,887us-gaap_SharesOutstanding
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember