Where to Stay in New Orleans: 5 Top Spots + Amazing Hotels

Aerial view of New Orleans skyline featuring tall buildings, including the distinctive dome of the Caesars Superdome, with residential areas and streets in the foreground under a partly cloudy sky.

Play your best jazz music and jump on this guide on where to stay in New Orleans!

After thorough research, I came up with a list of the top 5 areas in this vibrant town. And for each, I included the best hotels, for luxury, mid-range and budget!

French Quarter is the best area to stay in New Orleans as that’s where you’ll find some of the main attractions and stunning hotels! But don’t worry, I included 4 more neighborhoods for those of you who’d prefer something else.

I recommend booking your New Orleans hotels in advance! The ‘Big Easy’ is a super popular destination and everything sells out in advance!

Quick Picks for Your Stay

Here are the best places to stay in New Orleans from luxury to budget. They all have excellent reviews and great locations!

luxury hotel

Outdoor swimming pool surrounded by lounge chairs and umbrellas with a historic building in the background under a blue sky.

THE ROYAL SONESTA

Best luxury hotel

Check price

mid-range hotel

FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON

Best value for money

Check price

budget hotel

A bedroom with a large bed, two bedside tables with lamps, a brick accent wall, framed artwork, and a ceiling fan. The room has hardwood floors and soft lighting.

HOTEL VILLA CONVENTO

Best affordable accommodation in the center

Check price

Contents

Quick Picks for Your Stay
1. French Quarter – best place to stay for the first time
2. Downtown New Orleans – where to stay for the urban feel
3. Canal Street – trendiest place to stay in New Orleans
4. Marigny & Bywater – for the bohemian atmosphere
5. Warehouse & Arts District – best for art lovers
BONUS: Best hotels on Bourbon Street
FAQs about where to stay in New Orleans
Final thoughts on where to stay in New Orleans, Louisiana

Here is a map of New Orleans with all the 5 areas I will be talking about in this travel guide, so you can easily visualize them:

A colorful map highlighting the best areas to stay in New-Orleans with numbered locations and labels for easy navigation

French Quarter: for first-timers
DOWNTOWN: for the urban feel
CANAL STREET: trendiest place
MARIGNY & BYWATER: for the bohemian atmosphere
WAREHOUSE / ARTS DISTRICT: for art lovers

1. French Quarter – best place to stay for the first time

A three-story building with ornate wrought-iron balconies adorned with hanging ferns, set against a cloudy sky. Another building and greenery are visible on either side.

No better place where to stay in New Orleans for the first time than the French Quarter!

The French Quarter is the historic area and the most famous part of New Orleans, Louisiana!

Also known as Vieux Carre, the neighborhood has a unique architecture that blends French and Spanish Creole styles (which you’ve probably seen in all the pics), a vibrant atmosphere, fun nightlife, and so many attractions!

You could probably spend a full day or more just here, hitting all the incredible spots! Bourbon Street (map) is a great place to start your night! This is one of the most important avenues in New Orleans and it’s packed with restaurants and bars, like the Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar (map) which dates back to the 1700s.

As for the attractions, you should definitely hit the Audubon Aquarium, the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum (as you’ll see New Orleans is big on voodoo and other spiritual practices) and New Orleans Jazz Museum.

A street with multi-story buildings featuring iron balconies, potted plants, and a parked bicycle under a clear sky.

New Orleans is a super magical place and you’ll definitely feel that on the streets and in all the shops that sell witchy things and voodoo stuff! After all so many TV series and movies about vampires and witches were set here and some even filmed here, like Vampire’s Diaries, Mayfair Witches and the Originals.

While here, you also have to check out all the local boutique shops, stores where you find some incredible antiques! Shops of the Colonnade Market (map) is an awesome spot to start your souvenir hunt!

While exploring the neighborhood, make sure you head to Jackson Square (map). This is where all the street performers gather, and you’ll find everything from singers, dancers, tarot and palm readers!

Right near the Square, there’s also the St. Louis Cathedral (map) which dates back to the 1700s and has beautiful architecture!

Now let’s check out the best hotels where to stay in New Orleans, French Quarter:

Luxury hotel

The Royal Sonesta New Orleans

Set right on Bourbon Street, this accommodation offers an outdoor pool where you can enjoy the Southern sun and a jazz club. Their rooms are modern and some also come with a balcony where you can enjoy your morning coffee!

Check price

Other accommodation options in French Quarter

mid-range

Outdoor courtyard with a swimming pool, surrounded by lounge chairs and a red-brick, multi-story building with numerous balconies.

Four Points by Sheraton

One of the best historic hotels that offers an outdoor pool, and modern rooms that are great for couples

Check price

budget

A room with wooden furniture, a table with chairs, a ornate reception counter, brick and decorated walls, and a ceiling fan. There are various items on the counter and a TV mounted on the wall.

Hotel Villa Convento

A great place that has rooms with chandeliers and courtyard views, free parking and a terrace

Check price

airbnb

A cozy bedroom features a double bed with white bedding, a dark wooden headboard, blue-painted and brick walls, a dresser, a small window unit air conditioner, and a wooden nightstand with a lamp.

French Quarter Guesthouse

This cozy guest house comes with a room that has garden views, a courtyard and free parking

Check price

Things to do in French Quarter

Admire the architecture on Chartres Street (map)
Step back in time at the historic jazz venue Preservation Hall
Experience the crazy night scene at Bourbon Street
See some street performers in Jackson Square
Shop for souvenirs at Colonnade Market (map)
Take the kids to the Audubon Aquarium
Check out the goodies in the French Market (map)
Admire the architecture of the St. Louis Cathedral

2. Downtown New Orleans – where to stay for the urban feel

Skyline of a city with a mix of modern high-rise buildings and older structures under a partly cloudy blue sky.

Also known as the Central Business District, this neighborhood is set right near the French Quarter (a 15 min walk) so you’re still right near the main attractions!

This neighborhood offers a great mixture of commercial offices, nice shops, cool restaurants as well as museums, making it the perfect area for those of you looking for a more urban vibe! It’s also a great place to stay in New Orleans with family, as it’s pretty close to the main attractions!

I feel like the best way to explore it is to just walk and explore the streets! Although the architecture is modern compared to other parts of the city, you’ll still find some cool buildings around here.

There are some fab attractions here as well, like Lafayette Square (map) and the Van Gogh New Orleans: The Immersive Experience museum.

You’ll also find some amazing restaurants where you can indulge in the delicious New Orleans cuisine like Ruby Slipper restaurant (map). And plenty of cafes where you can start your mornings like Last Sunday Coffee Bar (map).

Luxury hotel

NOPSI Hotel

An amazing luxury hotel in the city center that features a beautiful rooftop bar and a swimming pool. Their rooms are super comfortable and have a tub where you can enjoy a long bath after your flight. You can also rent a bike from the hotel and explore the city!

Check price

Other accommodation in Downtown New Orleans

mid-range

Modern hotel's lobby with a reception desk on the left, seating area with chairs and tables in the center, and decorative lighting and plants.

Kimpton Hotel Fontenot

This modern hotel has 3 restaurants, stylish rooms with a flat-screen Tv and a bar

Check price

budget

A hotel room with two double beds, a desk, chairs, a wall-mounted TV, and a window overlooking city buildings. The decor includes colorful geometric patterns and modern lighting.

Canopy by Hilton

Affordable hotel, located in the city center that has rooms with large windows, a restaurant and a gym

Check price

airbnb

Modern living area with dark wood flooring, a navy blue couch, a patterned chair, and a white round coffee table. The space includes a kitchen with stainless steel appliances and a breakfast bar with stools.

Amazing Apartment

Beautiful home with a charming decor that has a spacious living room and a kitchen

Check price

Things to do in Downtown New Orleans

Start your mornings with a coffee at Last Sunday Coffee Bar
Go for a walk in Lafayette Square
Visit the Van Gogh New Orleans: The Immersive Experience
Enjoy a tram ride on the historic St. Charles Streetcar line
Grab dinner at Ruby Slipper restaurant
Check out the St. Charles Avenue Presbyterian Church (map)

3. Canal Street – trendiest place to stay in New Orleans

A red streetcar passes through a brightly lit downtown street at night, surrounded by tall buildings, palm trees, and street signs.

Set right between the French Quarter and Downtown New Orleans, this famous avenue is one of the most exciting places to stay in the city!

Home to the city’s parades including the unmissable Mardi Gras festivities which usually take place at the end of February/ beginning of March, this area is great for those of you who want to shop all day long, catch some shows at the city’s theaters and visit museums!

Plus you’ll be right near the French Quarter so you can go and explore the attractions there anytime you want!

But while here, make sure you visit The Sazerac House Museum and try the iconic Sazerac Cocktail, catch a show at the Saenger Theatre (map) and of course do some shopping as there are so many shops on Canal Street and even a mall called Canal Place (map).

Just across the street from the mall, you’ll find Harrah’s Casino (map), a great place where you can try your luck and listen to some live music. It’ll definitely make for a fun night out!

While exploring Canal Street, you can snap a pic or even jump on one of the colorful New Orleans trams and go on a quick trip around!

Luxury hotel

Marriott New Orleans

Wake-up to a stunning view of the city, while staying in this hotel that comes with spacious rooms with a seating area and a flat-screen Tv! The accommodation also offers an outdoor pool, a restaurant and a fitness center.

Check price

Other accommodation options on Canal Street

Mid-range

A neatly made bed with beige and white bedding, a bench at the foot, an armchair, a side table with a lamp, and a curtained window in a modern bedroom.

The Jung Hotel and Residences

Enjoy the city views from the rooms of this hotel that have a kitchen and a washing machine

Check price

Budget

A rooftop bar and lounge area with modern outdoor furniture, string lights, plants, and wall murals, set against a backdrop of city buildings during evening time.

SpringHill Suites by Marriott

A great hotel that offers a spa center, family rooms, a fitness center and a bar

Check price

Airbnb

A bedroom with a green theme, featuring a double bed with green bedding and pillows, a bedside table with a lamp, a window with an air conditioning unit, and tiled flooring.

Saiyaan’s Place

This lovely home is perfect for 2 people and it has a kitchen, a lounge area and small patio

Check price

Things to do on Canal Street

Visit The Sazerac House Museum
Spend a fun night at Harrah’s Casino
Shop until you drop at Canal Place
Join the Mardi Gras festivities
Grab dinner at Creole House Restaurant & Oyster Bar (map)

4. Marigny & Bywater – for the bohemian atmosphere

A street corner featuring a stop sign, a one-way sign, and a two-story building with a balcony and greenery. Various shops and a parked car are visible under a sunny sky with some clouds.

Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, right near the French Quarter, these 2 areas which I coupled together as they offer the same type of attractions and atmosphere, are perfect for those who love music and the whole bohemian vibe!

Here you’ll find lots of jazz bars, especially on Frenchman Street (map) which is the place to be after the sunset! There you’ll find The Spotted Cat Music Club (map) which is a great place to start the night!

Every November, the Day of the Dead parade starts near Marigny, on St. Roch Avenue (map), so if you’re around during the 1st of November, definitely head there!

Marigny (also known as Faubourg Marigny) has some art galleries too, boutique shops and plenty of restaurants where you can try some delicious Southern food!

Honestly, this place has it all! And since it’s so close to the French Quarter you can always head there if you want to see the main stuff but at least you won’t stay in the middle of all the craziness, as it can get super busy there!

Bywater is a bit more relaxed but you’ll still find some bars and restaurants and Crescent Park (map) where you can go for a nice sunset stroll!

If you’re traveling on a budget and can’t find anything in this neighborhood, or if all is sold out, I’d recommend checking the nearby Tremé Lafitte neighborhood which has lots of apartments.

Luxury hotel

The Frenchmen

Such a stylish hotel that comes with an outdoor swimming pool where you can relax when you’re not out in the jazz bars! Their rooms have such a cool decor, very specific to New Orleans and some also come with a balcony.

Check price

Other accommodation options in Marigny & Bywater

Mid-range

A bedroom with a canopy bed, clawfoot bathtub, chandelier, blue and white checkered furniture, and blue curtains.

Hotel Peter and Paul

You’re going to love the design of this hotel that has gorgeous rooms, a terrace and a restaurant

Check price

Budget

Modern office space with a wooden desk, swivel chair, couch, and two lamps. A large wall-mounted TV and framed artwork can be seen. Floor-to-ceiling windows are in the background.

Hampton Inn New Orleans

An affordable accommodation that offers an outdoor pool, spacious rooms and a fitness center

Check price

Airbnb

An elegant living room features a striped sofa, a chandelier, vintage furnishings, a fireplace with a mirror above it, and large windows with draped curtains.

Charming Marigny Cottage

This cottage has a vintage decor, a room with a small kitchen and a terrace

Check price

Things to do in Marigny & Bywater

Check out the jazz bars on Frenchman Street
Go for a stroll in Crescent Park
Grab some drinks at The Spotted Cat Music Club
Catch a show at Marigny Opera House
Enjoy a yummy breakfast at Horn’s Eatery (map)
Explore the Garden District

5. Warehouse & Arts District – best for art lovers

A street in a city lined with buildings, including a red brick establishment with a green sign, cars parked on the side, and a few pedestrians. The skyline is visible in the background.

The Warehouse & Art District is located next to the Central Business District and just a 20 min walk away from the French Quarter!

This is a nice neighborhood with lots of modern art galleries, fine dining restaurants, and great museums. Sounds so cool, doesn’t it?

The best way to enjoy this artsy area is to simply wander randomly along the beautiful streets and see which place catches your eye!

Of course, there are plenty of places to dine and drink here! If you eat meat definitely check out Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken (map).

Some cool attractions that you should check out while here are the Contemporary Arts Center and St. Patrick’s Church, which has some unique frescoes. If you enjoy history, definitely check out The National WWII Museum which is pretty big and has a 4D theater, some plane exhibitions and many other things.

Luxury hotel

Roami at The Luzianne

The perfect hotel for your New Orleans getaway! Chill by the rooftop pool and enjoy a coffee first-thing in the morning! Their apartments are spacious and come with a large kitchen and free Wi-Fi.

Check price

Other accommodation in Warehouse/Arts District

mid-range

A rooftop pool with clear blue water overlooking a cityscape with various skyscrapers and buildings under a partly cloudy sky.

Roami at The Brandywine

Enjoy the views by the infinity pool of this hotel that has large apartments with a kitchen

Check price

budget

A modern lobby area featuring contemporary seating, circular tables, large colorful abstract paintings, and three spherical pendant lights hanging from the ceiling.

Hampton Inn and Suites

A super affordable and nice hotel with spacious rooms, a swimming pool and a bar

Check price

airbnb

Modern bedroom with a large bed, white bedding, two patterned pillows, two bedside tables with lamps, and artwork on a light green accent wall.

Constance Lofts

This bright apartment has a living room area with a flat-screen Tv, a kitchen and free Wi-Fi

Check price

Things to do in Warehouse/Arts District

Visit the Contemporary Arts Center
Learn about history at The National WWII Museum
Admire the frescoes at St. Patrick’s Church
Visit the magnificent Mardi Gras World to see amazing costumes and decorations
Grab a bite at Willa Jean restaurant (map)

👑 Luxury price:	US$220
💵 Mid-range hotel:	US$130
🛏️ Budget:	US$100
📍 Best area:	French Quarter
🛎️ Best luxury hotel:	The Royal Sonesta New Orleans
🧳 Best mid-range hotel:	Four Points by Sheraton
👛 Best budget hotel:	Hotel Villa Convento

BONUS: Best hotels on Bourbon Street

Street view of Bourbon Street in New Orleans at dusk, featuring buildings with balconies and a street sign reading "Bourbon.

Since Bourbon Street is one of the most popular avenues, if not the “it street” in New Orleans, I decided to make a short bonus with some of the best hotels here for those of you who want to be in the middle of all the action!

Let’s check out these hotels in New Orleans, which I listed from most to least expensive:

Hyatt Centric French Quarter – Such a nice hotel that has large windows which overlook Bourbon Street! The accommodation comes with an outdoor swimming pool, a restaurant and a bar.
Bon Maison Guest House – This hotel has such a nice courtyard where you can enjoy your morning coffee! The accommodation offers rooms with a kitchenette and garden views.
Lafitte Hotel & Bar – A great hotel that comes with rooms with city views (some even have a balcony)! They also offer private parking, a terrace and a bar.

Check the rates

FAQs about where to stay in New Orleans

Jackson Square in New Orleans at sunset, featuring the St. Louis Cathedral, a statue, and horse-drawn carriages lined up in the foreground.

⏱️ How many days should you spend in New Orleans?

You should stay a minimum of 2 days in New Orleans to discover main landmarks, music venues, and museums.

📷 What should I not miss in New Orleans?

You should definitely visit the French Quarter, Canal Street and the Downtown area and check out the attraction there!

🤔 Is New Orleans dangerous for tourists?

No, but you should stick to exploring the touristy areas mentioned above and avoid walking alone at night in secluded places!

☀️ What is the best month to visit New Orleans?

The best time to visit New Orleans is between February and May when the weather is warm.

🗺️ Where is the best place to stay in New Orleans?

If you are visiting New Orleans for the first time, the best area to stay in is French Quarter as that’s where you’ll find the main attractions!

🚗 What is the best area to stay in New Orleans without a car?

The French Quarter, Downtown New Orleans, Marigny & Bywater are some of the best areas to stay in New Orleans without a car.

⚖️ Is it better to stay in the French Quarter or Downtown New Orleans?

It depends on your preferences. The French Quarter is great for those who want to stay where all the attractions are. Downtown is more modern but it’s still a great area where to stay in New Orleans to walk everywhere.

🔝 What is the safest area to stay in New Orleans?

French Quarter, Downtown and all the areas in this post are safe as they’re super touristy and always frequented by people! Still, you need to be mindful as always and take care of your belongings.

🚶‍♀️Is New Orleans a walkable city?

Yes, it’s one of the most walkable cities in the state! And you can get pretty much anywhere in the central area by walking.

Final thoughts on where to stay in New Orleans, Louisiana

A cityscape of New Orleans, featuring a sunset sky, a bridge in the background, and distinctive architecture, including a prominent white church in the foreground.

We’ve reached the end of our virtual trip to NOLA!

Now that you’ve read this guide on where to stay in New Orleans, I’m sure you’re ready to start planning your trip!

If by the end you’re still unsure on which hotel to pick, you can check my top 2 favorite options below:

The Royal Sonesta New Orleans – chill by the outdoor pool of this hotel that has a jazz club
Four Points by Sheraton – this stylish hotel offers a swimming pool and a bar

Just remember that New Orleans is a super popular place, so I recommend booking your accommodations here in advance and secure your spot early!

Have a wonderful trip to the Big Easy everyone and don’t forget I’m always around for questions! Just drop me a comment below and I’ll answer as soon as possible!

Enjoy your time in New Orleans,

Eylul

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