We list the best hotels, hostels, B&Bs and guesthouses in New Orleans as recommended by travel experts from CNN, Lonely Planet, Frommer’s, Fodor’s, New York Times and more. All hotel recommendations have been referenced with customer reviews and we only listed places with at least a 4 out of 5-star customer review rating.
Best cheap hotel in New Orleans: The Jung Hotel and Residences
Best boutique hotel in New Orleans: Old No. 77 Hotel
“From its entrance on a busy section of downtown Canal Street, you’d never guess just how much spacious luxury awaits you at this resort-like Ritz Carlton location. The top notch spa and beautiful public spaces let you recharge in the utmost elegance, while still landing you close to the Canal Street streetcar and some of the city’s best sights.”
Featured as Fodor’s Choice in New Orleans.
“Dating back to 1886, The Monteleone is a longtime favorite Quarter hotel, and with reason. This grand old hotel has the right mix of New Orleans grandeur, sophisticated style, and a good dose of fun, with great bar outlets, a rooftop pool, and live music.”
“The Ace is a chain that really wants to impart a boutique, local experience. The New Orleans result is a stylish hotel with Louisiana accents that still feels like most contemporary, minimalist-with-a-touch-of-swag, design-conscious boutique hotels the world over.”
“At the Audubon Cottages, you get to sleep in one of seven immaculately restored historical buildings, ranging from two-bedroom suites with private courtyards and walk-in showers to a former storage shed once used as a studio by John James Audubon. You’ll have your own saltwater pool, attentive staff and the satisfaction of having privacy and quiet within the Quarter.”
“The two houses here epitomize Creole elegance at its unassuming best. You enter into a courtyard filled with ferns and a trickling fountain; some rooms open onto the courtyard, while winding stairways lead to elegant upstairs quarters.”
“Sure, it’s got elegance and grace but the most luxurious offering in a beyond-luxurious experience at the Windsor Court Hotel is the silence. Geographically, it is located a few blocks from the French Quarter but it doesn’t seem possible that this serene alcove exists in the same world as Bourbon Street.”
Featured as Fodor’s Choice in New Orleans.
“There’s a little something for everyone at this sprawling, resort-like hotel overlooking Bourbon Street. Refined meeting rooms, elegant yet rowdy Bourbon Street-facing balcony suites, a sunny pool deck, and an ultra-fine dining restaurant are just some of the things that attract families, businesspeople, and bachelorettes alike.”
Featured as Fodor’s Choice in New Orleans.
“This lovely hotel has taken over the grounds of the former Sts Peter and Paul Catholic church and school. The rooms are a study in elegant historical understatement, with muted linens, hand-painted tiles, canopied beds and highly individualized touches.”
“The Alder Hotel is a clean, contemporary and affordable place in the heart of Uptown New Orleans, and close to the thriving restaurant and bar scene on Freret Street.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in New Orleans.
“The impressive exterior of this former house of ill repute is frillier than inside, though there is still plenty to impress here. Antiques abound, and a smattering of country touches help create genuine, warm comfort. The beds are deep and piled with soft, girly linens; and room configurations are amenable to couples, families, and friends.”
Featured as Frommer’s Exceptional Choice in New Orleans.
“Beside Audubon Park, this ornate wooden masterpiece was built in 1884 to impress people attending the World Cotton Exchange Exposition. The rooms and guest lounge are heavy with antiques, and the verandah overlooking the park and St Charles Ave is lovely.”
Recommended by:
Fodors, Frommers, Forbes, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Fodors, Frommers, Lonely Planet
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, Fodors, Frommers
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, Fodors, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, Fodors, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Fodors, Frommers, Forbes
Recommended by:
Fodors, Frommers, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times
Recommended by:
Frommers
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet
When it comes to enjoying a luxurious stay in a liveliest, vibrant, and a colorful city in the US, then you will not find a better place than New Orleans. It is the home to jazz and Mardi Gras. A place full of a lot of unique features attracts millions of visitors every year. However, as this is a large city, one can find it quite challenging to locate a perfect place to stay in Orleans. Well, this article can give you detailed information about some best neighborhoods in the city. So, pack your bags and get ready to visit New Orleans.
Top 5 neighborhoods in New Orleans
French Quarter
An old and famous New Orleans’s neighborhood, French Quarter is a perfect place to stay in the city if you are traveling there for the first time. Located at the center of New Orleans, this is the place where you can enjoy a great combination of nightlife, food, and music. During your stay, you will get a chance to enjoy some good times in the middle of colorful surroundings. For all the food lovers, this place is a haven. Have a visit to different restaurants and taste the delicacies. You will definitely enjoy your stay here.
CBD-Central Business District
Don’t go with the name. You will find it quite the opposite than that. It is a place for those who are searching for unlimited excitements and funs. CBD is a haven for party animals, foodies, sports fans and shopaholics. No matter what are you looking for, you will find everything here. It houses a lot of pocket-friendly hotels where you don’t need to break your bank for a comfortable stay.
Bourbon Street
If you are looking for the craziest part of New Orleans, then this is it. Situated in the middle of the city, it has its own unique world. A world full unlimited excitement, pubs, clubs, and restaurants. Drink, eat, and party as much as you can in Bourbon Street. It is a place to witness live acts from different categories. The city has something for everyone who visits there.
Faubourg Marigny
Looking for a place with a unique atmosphere and rich culture? Then head toward Faubourg Marigny. It houses many tattoo parlors, restaurants, bars, and local boutiques. Here you can enjoy art galleries, live music and more. If you want to have a great day with locals and enjoy the nightlife, this place is for you.
Mid-City / Lakeview
This is a perfect place for families. These two areas house some wonderful landscapes and offer you a unique staying experience. These two areas are well-connected with each other, and there you can enjoy a peaceful living experience without spending much of your money. Besides, from these two locations, you will find it much easier to visit some of the best attractions in New Orleans. Just visit the place, and you will never regret it.
Also check out our travel guide about the best areas to stay in New Orleans.
If you're looking for a cheap hotel in New Orleans, then book The Jung Hotel and Residences. It's an excellent budget hotel offering great value for money. It's in a good location, it's been recommended by travel experts and the hotel has excellent customer reviews. Make sure you check out our list of the best cheap hotels in New Orleans as well.
You like some luxury but don't like the famous chain hotels. If you're looking for the best boutique hotel in New Orleans, you should check out Old No. 77 Hotel. It's a very cool hotel that has been highly recommended by travelers and experts.
Also check out our list of the best boutique hotels in New Orleans, it's a manually curated list of the most unique and romantic hotels in the city.
If money isn't a problem and you're looking for a luxury hotel in New Orleans, then go for Windsor Court Hotel. The hotel offers excellent service, it's in a top location, it has been rated very highly by previous guests and renowned travel critics have recommended it. Also check out our list of the best luxury hotels in New Orleans, it's a manually curated list of the most exclusive 5-star hotels in the city.
Looking for a cozy place to stay in New Orleans that serves you handmade and fresh breakfast in the morning? Go and check out Bed & Breakfast Maison Perrier. The B&B has been recommended by well-known travel experts and recent guests have given it top ratings.
Looking for a good and affordable private room or cozy dorm in New Orleans? Check out Madame Isabelle's House. The hostel has been highly rated by backpackers. Also check out our list of the best hostels in New Orleans.
If you're looking for a 3-star hotel in New Orleans then you'll have to pay around $200 per night. For a 4-star hotel you have to pay about $250 per night and if you're looking for a luxury 5-star New Orleans hotel that will cost your about $490 per night.
If you're looking for a romantic get-away in New Orleans, then try the Hotel Peter and Paul. The hotel has excellent recent reviews from couples.
If you're looking to start the day with a great breakfast, then try the Hotel Peter and Paul. The hotel has excellent customer reviews for the breakfast they serve.
If you're looking to visit New Orleans with your family, then try the Park View Historic Hotel. The hotel has excellent recent reviews by families.
Swamp and Bayou Sightseeing Tour with Boat Ride from New Orleans. Discover the mystique of the swamps and bayous on a sightseeing boat tour from New Orleans. Travel deep into the secluded bayous across the Mississippi River to witness Cajun life and spot native wildlife. Price: $52.
New Orleans: French Quarter, Cemetery, and Voodoo Tour. Enjoy 3 tours in 1 on this 2-hour walking tour. Explore the French Quarter and Armstrong Park in the district of Treme. Visit the City of the Dead, the oldest cemetery in New Orleans. Learn burial customs and see the Voodoo Queen, Marie Laveau's tomb. Price: $21.
New Orleans: Day Jazz Cruise on the Steamboat Natchez. Board the Steamboat Natchez and be transported back in time! Journey along the graceful current and learn why New Orleans was founded on the beautiful crescent of the lower Mississippi River on this two-hour jazz cruise. Price: $45.
More things to do in New Orleans
New Orleans is a city like no other. Its unique history, outstanding architecture, and vibrant culture are what make it one of the most popular tourist destinations in America. With over 300 annual festivals and events, as well as famous attractions such as the Superdome, Bourbon Street, and Preservation Hall, there’s never a dull moment in this exciting city.
The Big Easy has something for everyone regardless of your interests or budget. There are plenty of affordable hotels and bed & breakfasts throughout the city; however, due to its popularity as a tourist destination prices tend to fluctuate seasonally. New Orleans has many hidden gems that not even locals know about until they see them for themselves.
From specialty bars with amazing happy hour deals to restaurants, you won’t find anywhere else, there’s more to this city than meets the eye.
Tourist Information
The New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corporation (NTMC) is the city’s official tourism bureau and provides information about upcoming events and festivals, finding accommodations, and transportation within the city. There are plenty of ways to get around the city, including taxis, shuttles, and Uber/Lyft. If you’re looking to get around on foot, the majority of the popular tourist areas are easily accessible by foot.
Climate
New Orleans is a very temperate city, with an average temperature of 63°F in the winter months and an average of 87°F in the summer. The city experiences an average of 27 inches of rainfall per year. The best time to visit is between October and May when you can avoid extreme heat and humidity. The days are warm and pleasant, with temperatures in the 60s and 70s, and nights are pleasant and rarely ever drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The highest temperatures occur in July, with an average of 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The lowest temperatures occur in January, when the average temperature is in the mid-40s. The weather is at its wettest in the spring and fall, and at its driest during the summer months. Hurricanes are a threat from mid-August to the end of October.
When to go
New Orleans has mild weather all year round, so there really is no wrong time to visit. That being said, you will want to avoid the months of July and August when the city gets extremely humid and hot. If you want to catch some of the festivals and events that go on year-round, you’ll want to visit in October or November when everything is in full swing.
Food and Dining
Food is a central part of New Orleans culture and you can find literally anything and everything here. From Cajun and Creole to French and Italian, New Orleans has the most diverse and inclusive culinary scene in the country. You can spend days exploring different restaurants and never have the same meal twice.
For Breakfast:
Cafe du Monde – This famous hotspot has been serving New Orleans locals and tourists since the late 19th century when it was known as a “gumbo and coffee stand.” The cafe’s most famous dish is its Beignets, which are French doughnuts covered in powdered sugar. You can also find coffee and their signature chicory coffee iced coffee.
For Lunch:
The Joint – This is a New Orleans staple that serves up delicious sandwiches, burgers, and salads. The Joint is located in the heart of the French Quarter and has a laid-back vibe that you can’t find at any other restaurant in the city.
For Dinner:
Coquette – This award-winning French restaurant offers award-winning French-Creole cuisine and is definitely worth a visit. When you visit Coquette, you can also expect to be immersed in the history of the city and its culture.
Special Events:
Mardi Gras – New Orleans has a long-standing tradition of celebrating the last day of Carnival before Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent. The city’s most famous Carnival celebration takes place on Fat Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday, and is known as Mardi Gras or “Fat Tuesday.”
Activities for Travelers
New Orleans is a city of culture and history, but there are also plenty of ways to get outdoors and get active.
1) Audubon Nature Institute
This is a network of gardens and attractions that includes the famous Audubon Zoo and Insectarium. There are also various gardens and parks that are open to the public.
2) Bourbon Street
This iconic street is famous for its bars and nightlife. It is also home to the famous Bourbon Street Shooters Bar, which is one of the most unique bars in the world. It’s open 24 hours a day and has a never-ending supply of “Endless Bubbles,” which are champagne shots served in a massive champagne fountain.
3) French Quarter
This is the heart of the city and is home to the famous Preservation Hall and French Market.
4) Garden District and Historic New Orleans
These are great neighborhoods to explore and get a feel for the city’s culture and architecture.
5) Jackson Square
This is one of the most iconic places in New Orleans and is the perfect place to start exploring the city. It is also home to the famous Voodoo Museum.
6) New Orleans Nature Center
This is an outdoor and nature center where you can get up close and personal with all kinds of animals, including alligators, snakes, and other reptiles and insects.
7) New Orleans Zoo
This is another popular attraction that is great for families.
Where to stay
There are plenty of affordable hotels throughout the city that offer all the amenities you would expect from a major city. If you’re looking for something slightly different, there are many bed and breakfasts throughout the city that offer a unique experience. The architecture and charm of the buildings in New Orleans make it a photographer’s dream. You can find a wide range of properties to suit every budget and taste. Getting to and from the airport is a breeze with plenty of public transportation options as well as taxis. The city also has a number of car rental companies that offer affordable rates and a wide range of vehicles.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or revisiting, we hope this guide helps you get the most out of your visit to the city. Please do read our guide about where to stay in New Orleans, so you know which area best fits your travel needs.
Final Words
New Orleans is a city like no other. It is a city of culture and history, a city of music and jazz, and a city of food and drink. If you are looking for an exciting and unique travel experience, New Orleans is the city for you. There is something for everyone, regardless of your interests and budget. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s culture, get outdoors and experience nature, or try a wide variety of foods and drinks, New Orleans has something for every traveler.
If you like our list of best places to stay in New Orleans, then you should also check out our selection of recommended hotels in Portland or the best hotels in Nashville.