New Orleans is one of the liveliest, most vibrant and colourful cities in the United States. Home to Mardi Gras, Bourbon Street and jazz, it’s no wonder millions flock to this southern city every year. Show
But New Orleans is a massive city, and figuring out where to stay can be overwhelming. It’s made up of various neighbourhoods, each offering something unique to travellers. To help you out, I’ve created this guide on the best places to stay in New Orleans. I’ve included something for every traveller, so whether you want to party all night long, explore the history of jazz, or indulge in Cajun food – I’ve got you covered! Here are my top recommendations for best places to stay in New Orleans. Where to Stay in New OrleansLooking for a specific place to stay? These are my highest recommendations for places to stay in New Orleans including vacation rentals, New Orleans hotels for all budgets, and some hostels. This is particularly useful if you’re backpacking around the USA and need to save some dollars! Best Airbnb in New Orleans: Townhome in the Heart of NOLAYou can find this hidden gem bang in the centre of the French Quarter. It’s in an authentic historic Lousiana building giving you the feeling you expect to get when visiting this timeless city. The home is ideal for two guests is beautifully furnished, and has its own pool. Best Hostel in New Orleans: Auberge NOLA HostelThe Auberge NOLA Hostel is ideally situated close to cafes, shops, eateries, and more. It has private and dorm-style accommodations, large common rooms, and a shared kitchen and bar. With top amenities and an awesome location, it’s one of the best hostels in New Orleans. Best Hotel in New Orleans: Hotel MazarinThe charming Hotel Mazarin is one of the best hotels in New Orleans. It offers a private patio and bar, stylish rooms, and an on-site gym. Situated in the French Quarter, you’ll be close to all the best bars, restaurants, and attractions of New Orleans. New Orleans Neighbourhood GuideFIRST TIME IN NEW ORLEANS
FIRST TIME IN NEW ORLEANS French QuarterThe oldest and most famous neighborhood in New Orleans, there’s no better place to stay on your first visit than the French Quarter. ON A BUDGET ON A BUDGET Central Business DistrictDon’t let the name fool you; New Orleans’ Central Business District isn’t all stuffy suits and quiet nights. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. This downtown neighbourhood is bursting with fun and excitement. NIGHTLIFE NIGHTLIFE Bourbon StreetHome to Mardi Gras, big brass bands and plenty of colourful buildings, Bourbon Street is without a doubt the liveliest and craziest part of the city. COOLEST PLACE TO STAY COOLEST PLACE TO STAY Faubourg MarignyIf you’re looking for a dynamic neighborhood with a unique atmosphere, interesting history and wonderful culture, then Faubourg Marigny is for you! FOR FAMILIES FOR FAMILIES LakeviewNorth of the city center are the neighboring districts of Mid-City and Lakeview. These two charming neighborhoods are packed with lush landscapes, interesting art, and plenty of unique experiences. And, they are our pick for where to stay for families visiting New Orleans. New Orleans is the largest city in Louisiana and is famous for its rich history, diverse culture, and its wild party scene. When choosing a place to stay in the city, many people look towards the New Orleans downtown neighborhoods. Specifically, located in the city center is the French Quarter. The oldest and most famous area of the city, the French Quarter is bursting with tourist attractions and landmarks. Here you’ll find everything from great New Orleans museums and interesting art galleries to charming parks and city squares. The French Quarter is also home to notoriously fun and wild Bourbon Street, which is lined with bars, clubs, pubs, and music venues. If you’re deciding where to stay in New Orleans for nightlife, look no further. The Central Business District (CBD) is ideal for travellers visiting New Orleans on a budget. More fun than its name suggests, the CBD is home to great food and cheaper accommodation options. Faubourg Marigny is an up-and-coming neighbourhood in New Orleans downtown that boasts a relaxed vibe, cool bars, and plenty of hipster hangouts. Head north and you’ll pass through Mid-City. One of the greenest areas in New Orleans, this is where you’ll find outdoor adventure, animal encounters, and lots of family-friendly fun. Another popular neighborhood is the Garden District, so named because of the oak-shaded trees that line the streets. There’s everything from quaint cottages to grand historic mansions in this neighborhood and it’s perfect for long term travelers looking for a quiet area. What is the One Item Every Traveller NEEDS??? There is one item every traveller NEEDS. Some travellers don’t even know they need it, but those travellers need it more than anyone. What is this forgotten essential of the backpacker-life? SPOILERS! Guess you’ll just have to click the button to find out. 😉 Find Out What It Is! New Orleans’ 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay inNow, let’s take a look at each of New Orleans’ best districts in more detail. I’ve included my top accommodation and activity picks in each, so you know exactly what to expect. 1. French Quarter – Where to Stay in New Orleans for your First VisitThe oldest and most famous neighbourhood in New Orleans, there’s no better place to stay on your first visit than the French Quarter. At the heart of the city, the French Quarter is where you can find great food, incredible music, and lively nightlife. Here you can enjoy good times, a laid-back attitude, and colourful surroundings. The French District is a haven for foodies, packed with amazing restaurants offering dishes and delicacies from around the world. Whether you favour sweet or savoury, salty or sour, you’ll find endless options in this awesome district. Best Airbnb in French Quarter: Townhome in the Heart of NOLASmack dab in the middle of the French Quarter; you can find this hidden gem vacation rental in New Orleans. It’s in an authentic historic Lousiana building giving you the feeling you expect to get when visiting this timeless city. The interiors are modern and stylish, and you’ll have everything you’ll need for a great stay. Best Hostel in French Quarter: IHSP French Quarter HouseEnjoy a dose of southern hospitality at IHSP French Quarter House. This great hostel boasts a fantastic location. It is surrounded by plenty of bars and restaurants and is a short walk to Bourbon Street. Guests can enjoy free wifi, linens, and lockers. There’s even free Netflix in the common room! Best Hotel in French Quarter: Hotel MazarinLocated at the heart of New Orleans, the Hotel Marazin is close to shops, restaurants, and the city’s top tourist attractions. This stunning New Orleans hotel has an on-site gym and charming bar. The rooms are large and spacious and come complete with tea/coffee making facilities. Best Hotel in French Quarter: Place D’ArmesSituated in a historic building in the heart of the French Quarter, the Place D’Armes Hotel is one of the best places to stay if you’re visiting New Orleans for the first time. Rooms are beautifully furnished in a classic style, and each comes with an ensuite bathroom and seating area. Wifi is available throughout the hotel, and there’s even an on-site pool! You’ll be surrounded by the city’s top restaurants and attractions, including Saint Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square. Things to See and Do in French Quarter
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3. Bourbon Street – Where to Stay in New Orleans for NightlifeHome to Mardi Gras, big brass bands, and plenty of colourful buildings, Bourbon Street is without a doubt the liveliest and craziest part of the city. Bourbon street is lined with amazing hotels, so you can stay right in the centre of the action. Located at the heart of the French Quarter, Bourbon Street is its own little world. Extending 13 blocks from Canal to Esplanade Avenue, this bustling thoroughfare is lined with bars, clubs, pubs, and restaurants. Here you can eat, drink, dance and party the night away. Tucked within a city renowned for its music, Bourbon Street is also where you can see live acts from almost any genre. Whether you want to enjoy a night of smooth jazz, rowdy rockabilly, or techno trance, there’s something for everyone on Bourbon Street.
Best Airbnb on Bourbon Street: Sunny & Quiet French Quarter RetreatThis studio apartment may be on the smaller side, but it’s the ideal base for groups deciding where to stay on Bourbon Street. Other than the modern amenities and stylish interior, the location is the coolest thing about this property. Jackson Square is just two blocks away, and you’ll have plenty of bars, restaurants, and nightlife on your doorstep. Best Guest House on Bourbon Street: Bon Maison Guest HouseBon Maison is one of the cheaper places to stay on Bourbon Street. Situated in an old brick building, the pet-friendly property offers a terrace, free wifi, and a quiet location just a stone’s throw from the action. Each room has an ensuite bathroom, and some also come with a seating area. Best Hotel on Bourbon Street: Homewood Suites By Hilton New Orleans French QuarterLocated at the heart of New Orleans’ most vibrant and lively neighbourhood, this three-star hotel provides comfortable accommodation just steps from the action. It is a short walk to Bourbon Street and the city’s best bars, clubs, and restaurants. Best Hotel on Bourbon Street: Hotel St MarieOffering a pool, restaurant, and bar, hotel St Marie is a great base for your trip to New Orleans. It’s ideally located close to top things to see and do in the city and is a stone’s throw from bars and clubs. Rooms are traditionally decorated and feature an ensuite bathroom. Things to See and Do on Bourbon Street
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5. Mid-City/Lakeview – Where to Stay in New Orleans in FamiliesNorth of the city centre you’ll find the neighbouring districts of Mid-City and Lakeview. These two charming neighbourhoods are packed with lush landscapes, interesting art, and plenty of unique experiences. With so much to discover, it’s perfect if you’re deciding where to stay in New Orleans with your family. Located just outside of the city centre, Mid-City/Lakeview are two well-connected neighbourhoods. They offer a nice reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the French Quarter and Bourbon Street without being too far away. From anywhere in Mid-City/Lakeview you’re just a short drive from New Orleans’ most famous landmarks and attractions. Here you’ll also find some of the best outdoor adventures in the city. Whether you’re interested in animal encounters or riding airboats through the swamp, Mid-City/Lakeview is where you and your family can get back to nature.
Best Airbnb in Mid-City/Lakeview: Historic and Authentic Mid City HomeFeel right at home at this awesome Airbnb in New Orleans. It’s got plenty of space making it ideal for families, with a backyard perfect for running around in. The classic cottage is as stunning on the inside as it is on the outside, with the guest suite providing cosy accommodation for up to four visitors. Best Hostel in Mid-City/Lakeview: Nola Jazz HouseFun, welcoming, and centrally located, Nola Jazz House is perfect for experiencing the best food, music, and culture in New Orleans. This hostel offers free breakfast and a great outdoor patio. Guests will love the social atmosphere and the myriad of attractions within walking distance. Best Hotel in Mid-City/Lakeview: Canal Street InnThe Canal Street Inn is a quaint bed and breakfast a short walk from the French Quarter. There are plenty of common spaces to relax in, including a living room, dining room, terrace, and garden. A full breakfast is provided each morning, and refreshments are available throughout the day. The property is ideally situated close to top attractions, bars, and cafes. Best Hotel in Mid-City/Lakeview: Midtown Hotel Downtown New OrleansThe Midtown is a comfortable and quaint hotel located in central New Orleans. It comes complete with an outdoor pool and spacious rooms with cable/satellite channels. It boasts a delicious on-site restaurant as well as a relaxing lounge bar. Things to See and Do in Mid-City/Lakeview
6. The Bywater – The Best Kept Secret in New OrleansThe Bywater is probably the most beloved neighbourhood in New Orleans among locals. It’s more laid back than almost anywhere in the city and is a great spot to just kick back and shoot the shit with friends. Most appreciated is the fact that The Bywater is still pretty rough around the edges. This makes it a huge hit with hipsters and artists and because of their presence, The Bywater has a distinctly quirky vibe. Of course, being New Orleans, there is plenty to do in The Bywater at night. Local legends like Music Box Village and Bacchanal Fine Wine & Spirits are among the most popular places to drink in the neighbourhood and come highly recommended. Because of The Bywater’s long boulevards and leisurely pace, I’d actually say that this is one of the best areas in New Orleans to Stay without a car. Just go outside and go for a stroll – who knows what you may find here.
Best Airbnb in The Bywater: Bywater Guesthouse w/ Tranquil CourtyardThis New Orleans cottage is built in true Creole-style, to be both comfortable and visually striking at the same time. Though the paint job screams at people passing by, the interior of this apartment is quiet and cosy. An excellent place to base oneself when visiting New Orleans. Best Budget Accommodation in The Bywater: Olde Town InnOlde Town Inn is the best place to stay in The Bywater on a budget, and is pretty hard to miss! With a bright blue exterior, the inn offers traditionally furnished rooms and suites perfect for any group size. Free parking and wifi are available, and the property is pet-friendly. Bourbon Street is one mile from the apartment, and the French Market and Washington Square are a quick walk away. Best Hotel in The Bywater: Sonder – The BywaterThe Sonder is like a hybrid between a hotel and an apartment, essentially combining the best of both forms. Their units are spacious, elegantly designed, and come fully equipped with a kitchen. One of the best places to stay in New Orleans’ most under-the-radar neighbourhood. Things to See and Do in The Bywater
7. The Garden District – Where to Stay for Long Term TravellersThe garden district is an up-and-coming area, known for its oak trees that line the streets. You’ll find quirky and charming homes here, some small cottages to grand, lavish mansions. It’s also home to many gardens (hense the name, Garden District) where you can sit back and enjoy the peaceful greenery. What brings many people to the Garden District is the Mardi Gras parade, which makes its route through the neighborhood on St. Charles Avenue. Another notable site in the Garden District is Leafy Lafayette Cemetery, a 19th-century cemetery filled with ornately designed tombs. You’ll find many boutique stores, antique shops and high-end trendy restaurants, urban coffee shops, and bars in the Garden District, especially around Magazine Street, which makes it my top place to stay for long-term travellers. Best Airbnb in The Garden District: Greek Apartment Two Blocks from St. Charles Av.This stunning apartment has tons of history and charisma but with modern fixtures and fittings. It’s the perfect place to stay in Garden District as it’s just two blocks from St. Charles Avenue, as well as minutes to the French Quarter, and Uptown area. Big enough for two, it has one bedroom, a fully equipped kitchen and free parking. Best Hostel in New Orleans: Auberge NOLA HostelThe Auberge NOLA Hostel is ideally situated just outside of Garden District near the best cafes, boutique shops, eateries, and more. It has private and dorm-style rooms, a large common space, and a shared kitchen and bar. With top amenities and an awesome location, it’s the perfect hostel in Garden District. Best Hotel in The Garden District: Club Wyndham Avenue PlazaNestled in the heart of Garden District is this comfortable luxury hotel. It has all the comforts of home including rooms with kitchenettes, an outdoor courtyard, a swimming pool, and a rooftop sundeck. There’s also an onsite restaurant if you don’t feel like going out, but with all the best gourmet restaurants and jazz clubs nearby, you’ll find it the perfect base for exploring. Top Things to See and Do in the Garden District:
FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in New OrleansHere’s what people usually ask me about the areas of New Orleans and where to stay. What is the best area to stay in New Orleans?My favourite place is the French Quarter. It is one of the most unique parts of the United States. You can experience all of New Orleans’s famous historical culture at its best here. Where is the best place to stay to party in New Orleans?Bourbon Street is where you want to be! You won’t find nightlife like this anywhere else in the world. We love Homewood Suites Hotel to be located super close to it all. What are the best areas for families to stay in New Orleans?We recommend Mid-City or Lakeview for families. Both of these neighbourhoods offer incredible sights and attractions, without the intensity that other parts of the city have. Where is good for couples to stay in New Orleans?Faubourg Marigny is our top pick for couples. You can enjoy endless dining options, galleries, breweries and live music. Hotels like Hotel Provincial give you the real New Orleans vibes. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for New OrleansIt’s good to get lost sometimes, but it’s also good not to get too lost. There are people that want you home in one piece. There’s one travel insurance provider The Broke Backpacker trusts for all his wildest shenanigans… World Nomads! Click the button below to get a quote on your insurance or read our in-depth review of World Nomads’ coverage. And then… let the shenanigans begin. 😉 Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in New OrleansWild and lively, colourful and bright; New Orleans is always a good time. It’s where you’ll find the roots of excellent music, a vibrant cultural scene, and plenty of good food and great times. In this guide, I’ve highlighted my five favourite neighbourhoods in New Orleans. If you’re still not sure where to stay, here’s a quick recap. For backpackers on a budget, my pick for the best hostel is the Auberge NOLA Hostel in the CBD. Not only is it centrally located, but it has large rooms and an on-site bar. I also recommend the Hotel Mazarin. Set in the French Quarter, this hotel is packed with charm, elegance and southern hospitality. Do you own or run a kick-ass hostel? Want to be featured in this list? Get in touch at [email protected] Thanks for reading – that was fun! 😀We bring you epic FREE content! We’re a big site with a big team and this job isn’t always easy. But we do it because we
love it – we love providing epic and free content. We love the knowledge that our content keeps you adventuring. We don’t ask for money, but if you’d like to find out how you can help the site in more organic ways, click the button below. Bye for now, but not forever!If you want MORE top-tier Broke Backpacker content like this, then sign up for our weekly newsletter below to get the latest and greatest! And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you! What street is the best to stay on in New Orleans?1. The French Quarter / Bourbon Street. The go-to spot for many first-timers, the French Quarter is one of the best places to stay in New Orleans. For those traveling to the Big Easy to indulge in the revelry that has made the city so famous, then the French Quarter ticks all the boxes.
What is the safest area to stay in New Orleans?For those who prioritize safety, Uptown and the Garden District have the two lowest crime rates in New Orleans. While primarily residential, they both have one distinct feature that will determine which you prefer. Uptown and the Garden District are some of the safest areas to stay in New Orleans.
Is it best to stay in the French Quarter?The French Quarter is undoubtedly the best place to stay in New Orleans thanks to its convenient location to all the best things to do and explore in the city including the famous and iconic Bourbon Street. Be sure to check out some of the most iconic drinks to try in New Orleans based in this area as well.
What is the most popular part of New Orleans?French Quarter
The French Quarter of New Orleans is what most tourists come to see when they visit the city. Set along a bend on the Mississippi River, the main attraction here is the architecture, but it is also a great area for dining and entertainment.
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What part of New Orleans is the best to stay?
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