ACK! What is that blasted sound!?!?
That, my dear travellers, troublemakers and trailblazers, is the sound of NEW ORLEANS. And it is coming to get you.
Whether you like it or not, the buzz, ecstatic energy and downright artistic idiocy of this city will get under your skin and have you dancing to a track that time forgot in precisely negative minutes.
And yet there is also a side of culture, of refined French architecture, of cocktails by the pool and wispy intellect. The combination leaves a distinct dilemma:
Am I to lay down my weary head upon satin sheets? or POUND IT AGAINST A BRICK WALL UNTIL DAWN?!?
The answer is in hand, folks, for my exceptionally well-balanced guide to where to stay in New Orleans holds every spacious apartment, bleary hostel and luxury hotel in the entire city. And all you have to do is scroll down…
Let’s scroll baby.
- Where to Stay in New Orleans
- New Orleans Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in New Orleans
- New Orleans’ 7 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQs about the Best Places to Stay in New Orleans
- What To Pack For New Orleans
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for New Orleans
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in New Orleans
Halfway through backpacking around the USA and have an unexplainable urge to send it into an entirely new reality/level of intoxication?
Welcome to Louisiana! Here are my most legendary top 3 places to stay in New Orleans…
Luxury French Quarter Pool House | Best Airbnb in New Orleans
If you had any doubts about New Orleans accommodation, this excellent homestay will surely put them to rest. Boasting a modern and chic design, a comfortable living room and a tidy little kitchen, this is the perfect space for a stylish couple.
With a heated saltwater pool at your disposal, you can make light work of a few beers and finally relax. One of the most straightforward, stunning and comfortable stays in New Orleans.
Auberge NOLA Hostel | Best Hostel in New Orleans
Coming in at number 1 of the top hostels in New Orleans, the Auberge NOLA Hostel annihilates its competitors like an angry alpha male lobster. Located between the Garden District and the French Quarter, this hostel hosts nightly parties, an unbeatable atmosphere, and Netflix.
This hostel won the Hostelworld award for ‘best hostel in the USA’ back in 2018 (pre-covid days), and now in the post-covid era, I fully expect it to return to its former glory…
Sensational Vibes.
Maison de la Luz | Best Hotel in New Orleans
The epitomy of class, the Maison de la Luz is host to a superb ambience which captures the refined nature of French high society. A free continental or buffet breakfast is on offer every morning, taking place in the stylish ‘Blue Room’. Every aspect of your stay has assuredly been thought of, and the room service is just divine. A beautiful boutique hotel nestled in the heart of New Orleans.
New Orleans Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in New Orleans
French Quarter
The oldest and most famous neighborhood in New Orleans, there’s no better place to stay on your first visit than the French Quarter.
Central Business District
Don’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.
Bourbon Street
Home 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.
Faubourg Marigny
If you’re looking for a dynamic neighborhood with a unique atmosphere, interesting history and wonderful culture, then Faubourg Marigny is for you!
Lakeview
North 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 where to stay in New Orleans, many people look towards the New Orleans downtown neighborhoods. Usually, 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 a ton of excellent things to do, from great New Orleans museums and art galleries to charming parks and city squares. Charming!
The French Quarter is also home to the 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. Business does not equal expensive, apparently.
Faubourg Marigny is an up-and-coming neighborhood in the New Orleans downtown, boasting 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. It’s also one of the safest parts of New Orleans.
Another popular neighborhood is the Garden District, so named because of the oak-shaded trees that line the streets. There is everything from quaint cottages to grand historic mansions in this neighborhood, and it’s perfect for long-term travellers looking for a quiet area.
New Orleans’ 7 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
What!? You’re 18 miles away from the starting point of your NOLA food tour?!?!? That is outrageous. Next time you should choose a better New Orleans Neighborhood. Or get it right first time.
In all their glory, here are the top 7 neighborhoods in all New Orleans.
1. French Quarter – Where to Stay in New Orleans for Your First Visit
The oldest and most famous neighborhood 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 home to some of New Orleans’ best festivals. It’s 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.
Townhome in the Heart of NOLA | Best Airbnb in the French Quarter
Smack 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.
HI New Orleans | Best Hostel in the French Quarter
For a place that thinks ‘spectacular interior mezzanine’ will sway backpackers, it has a surprising amount of style. The common rooms are spacious and open, there is a large kitchen, and the local restaurant partner (Besame) does mean South American cuisine.
Beds are super comfy and come equipped with privacy curtains, giving you a small and crucial extra bit of personal space. The location is sensational too, with a ton of awesome bars right round the corner.
Hotel Mazarin | Best Hotel in the French Quarter
Located 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.
Place D’Armes | Best Hotel in the French Quarter
Situated 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 Do in the French Quarter
- Enjoy the sights and sounds of New Orleans in central Jackson Square.
- Wander along Chartres Street, a street famous for its historic sites, bustling bars, and its many souvenir shops.
- Take a walking tour of the French Quarter and Jackson Square.
- Browse the shops, stalls, and cafes at the Old French Market.
- Watch the street performers in Jackson Square.
- Visit the stunning St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in North America.
- See the historic Preservation Hall, a renowned jazz venue.
- Join a steamboat dinner cruise from the Natchez Dock.
- Take a stroll through the lush and luxurious Jean Lafitte National Historical Park.
- Eat, drink and enjoy a fantastic night out at Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar and Restaurant.
- Walk Pirates Alley, a 182-meter-long street packed with unique businesses and historic buildings.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Central Business District (CBD) – Where to Stay in New Orleans on a Budget
Don’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 neighborhood is bursting with fun and excitement.
It is a haven for sports fans and shopaholics, as well as foodies, culture vultures, and party animals. Whatever your interests, you’ll have a great time in this lively and colourful neighborhood.
The Central Business District is also where budget backpackers will be able to stretch their travel dollars just a little bit further. This neighborhood is home to a variety of affordable hostels and inexpensive hotels.
If you want champagne on a beer budget, the CBD is the place for you!
Sonder Jung Residences | Best Airbnb in Central Business District
Sleeping up to four guests, this one-bedroom apartment is ideal for couples or groups visiting New Orleans on a budget. It’s bright and modern throughout and offers great value for money, situated within walking distance from top places of interest. The unit features everything you’ll need for a comfortable stay, including a full kitchen, spacious lounge area, and wifi.
Auberge NOLA Hostel | Best Hostel in Central Business District
The Auberge NOLA Hostel is centrally located in New Orleans. It is close to cafes, shops, eateries, and more. It has private and shared dorms, large common rooms, and a shared kitchen. The hostel hosts parties and events each night, so you can kickstart your night out without spending a fortune!
Drury Inn & Suites New Orleans | Best Hotel in Central Business District
The Drury Inn & Suites is a classic and charming hotel located in New Orleans ’ Central Business District. It is surrounded by cafes and restaurants and is within walking distance to the city’s top attractions. Each room comes with a TV, free wifi, and an ensuite bathroom.
Drury Plaza Hotel New Orleans | Best Hotel in Central Business District
With its sleek design, central location, and modern décor, the Drury Plaza Hotel is one of the coolest hotels in New Orleans. It’s been recently refurbished and offers a gym, free wifi, and family rooms. Business travellers will adore the convenience, whilst those looking to enjoy New Orleans full-time can use the great location to grab a taste of the local flavour.
Things to Do in the Central Business District
- Ride the historic St. Charles Streetcar line, the oldest continuously operating streetcar line in the world.
- See the opulent and ornate Immaculate Conception Church.
- Head on an exceptionally boozy day out, sampling some of the finest local stuff.
- Sip and sample a range of fruit wines and smoothies at NOLA Tropical Winery.
- Wander through Lafayette Square, the second oldest square in the city.
- Enjoy a sweet and refreshing treat at Imperial Woodpecker Sno Balls.
- Head down to the river and take on the Mississippi paddlewheeler. You know you want to.
- Sink your teeth into delicious plates of southern comfort food at Commerce Restaurant.
- Dine on local delicacies like po’boys and fried catfish at Hobnobber’s Varieties Bar.
- Excite your senses at Juan’s Flying Burrito.
- Eat amazing Cajun cuisine at Mena’s Palace.
3. Bourbon Street – Where to Stay in New Orleans for Nightlife
Home 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.
Photo: Lars Plougmann (Flickr)
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.
Luxurious Bourbon St. Pad with Balcony | Best Airbnb on Bourbon Street
As one of the most intensely beautiful Airbnbs of New Orleans, this excellent loft is home to French Quarter history at its finest. The balcony overlooks both Bourbon and Dumaine Street, at one of the most central locations in the city! If you want to truly live the way this city was meant to be lived in, this Airbnb is surely the place.
Equipped with fine and delicate decor, prepare to be dazzled by a five-foot crystal chandelier and stunning hardwood floors. There is no elite stay more elite…
Bon Maison Guest House | Best Guest House on Bourbon Street
Bon 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.
Homewood Suites By Hilton New Orleans French Quarter | Best Hotel on Bourbon Street
Located at the heart of New Orleans’ most vibrant and lively neighborhood, 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.
Hotel St Marie | Best Hotel on Bourbon Street
Offering a pool, restaurant, and bar, the Hotel St Marie is a great base for your trip to New Orleans. It’s ideally located close to the 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 Do on Bourbon Street
- Listen to Cajun and Zydeco banks as you enjoy strong drinks and a great atmosphere at Tropical Isle.
- Eat well at Galatoire’s 33 Bar & Steak, which specializes in steak and seafood dishes.
- Walk through Musical Legends Park and see all the statues of New Orleans jazz heroes.
- Listen to smooth jazz and drink great cocktails at Fritzel’s European Jazz Club.
- Dance the night away at Chris Owens Club & Balcony.
- Invest in the spooky history of the French Quarter with a wicked history combo tour.
- Invest in the spooky history in an alcoholic way with Spirits: a cocktail and ghost crawl.
- Bottoms up! Enjoy a round of shots at Rita’s Tequila House.
- Party all night long at Oz, a 2-story gay dance club that plays the best music.
- Sample unique absinthe cocktails at the historic Old Absinthe House.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Faubourg Marigny – Coolest Place to Stay in New Orleans
If you’re looking for a dynamic neighborhood with a unique atmosphere, interesting history, and wonderful culture, then Faubourg Marigny is for you!
This lively and laid-back district is home to a great mix of bars, restaurants, tattoo parlours, and boutiques catering to everyone from culture vultures to trendy hipsters.
It’s home to unique art galleries, cool craft breweries, and amazing live music venues. Tucked throughout the streets you’ll also find cafes, restaurants, and bars that attract people from all corners of the city.
So if you want to rub shoulders with locals and enjoy a raging New Orleans night on the town, this is the place to be!
Cozy Nest on Frenchmen Street | Best Airbnb in Faubourg Marigny
This private and cosy private room is perfect for solo travellers, couples, or digital nomads visiting New Orleans. It’s modern throughout and offers wifi, a workspace, and free on-site parking. Staying here puts you 15 minutes from the French Quarter and right in the middle of the neighborhood’s coolest cafes and eateries.
It is also pink. Sorry lads.
Madame Isabelle’s House in New Orleans | Best Hostel in Faubourg Marigny
Tastefully decorated and bursting with New Orleans charm, you won’t find a better hostel in Faubourg Marigny. Set in the heart of the neighborhood, this property offers private and dorm-style accommodations with comfortable beds. The hostel also boasts a garden, a large deck, and a hot tub.
If you aren’t convinced by a hostel with a hot tub, then I don’t know whether to smack you or pour you a large beverage. Either way, this hostel rocks.
Hotel Provincial | Best Hotel in Faubourg Marigny
Bursting with charm, Hotel Provincial is a great base for exploring New Orleans. It has a fantastic central location and is a short walk from landmarks, eateries, and nightclubs. On-site, there are a number of wellness facilities, including an outdoor pool.
The Hotel is exquisitely decorated and works more like a stately home, where everyone is nice to you and asks you if you need anything. Unobtrusively.
Things to Do in Faubourg Marigny
- Take a stroll along the bustling and lively Frenchmen Street, which is lined with bars, clubs, and great restaurants.
- Sample great local beers at Brieux Carre.
- Pick from a great selection of small-batch beers at Parleaux Beer Lab.
- Check out the modern installations at the Art Garage.
- Grab some small bites at the Rock Market.
- Be fully reeled in by a Frenchman Street live music pub crawl. Exceptionally fun.
- Hunt for treasure at the Piety Street Market, a festive monthly flea market.
- Enjoy a night of smooth jazz at The Spotted Cat Music Club.
- Listen to live music at the bohemian Hi-Ho Lounge.
5. Mid-City/Lakeview – Where to Stay in New Orleans in Families
North of the city centre you’ll find the neighboring districts of Mid-City and Lakeview. These two charming neighborhoods 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 neighborhoods. 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.
A Streetcar From the French Quarter | Best Airbnb in Mid-City/Lakeview
Feel right at home at this awesome New Orlean Airbnb. 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.
India House Backpackers Hostel | Best Hostel in Mid-City/Lakeview
A true New Orleans great, this hostel has been hosting some of the travelling world’s most epic people for over 28 years. Located in the heart of Mid-City, it’s only a streetcar away from the main city tourist spots. You can walk to the City Park attractions too!
There are several excellent pubs nearby, including a jazz bar, and the largest Mardi Gras parade actually passes right in front of the hostel! It is the only hostel in New Orleans with a swimming pool.
Canal Street Inn | Best Hotel in Mid-City/Lakeview
The 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.
Things to Do in Mid-City/Lakeview
- Explore the 1,300-acres of lush and magical landscapes that make up New Orleans City Park.
- Visit the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park.
- See the 64 incredible sculptures that are spread throughout The Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden at NOMA.
- Head out of the city for an educational Oak Alley Plantation tour. Not only is this a great way to get out an about, but it is informative and interesting too!
- Visit the gilded statue of Joan of Arc, which dates back to the late-19th-century.
- Stop and smell the roses at the New Orleans Botanical Garden.
- Ride the colourful carousel at the Carousel Gardens.
- See your favourite characters come to life at Storyland.
- See some of the local wildlife with an Airboat Swamp Tour. Swamps are natural habitats for things like ‘gamers’ and ‘demonic bureaucrats’.
- Play a round of 18 at City Putt.
- Dine on delicious seafood dishes at The Blue Crab.
- Eat incredible homestyle meals at Russell’s Marina Grill.
6. The Bywater – The Best Kept Secret in New Orleans
The Bywater is probably the most beloved neighborhood 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 neighborhood 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.
Bywater Guesthouse w/ Tranquil Courtyard | Best Airbnb in The Bywater
This 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.
The Lookout Inn | Best Budget Accommodation in The Bywater
Featuring an outdoor pool, hot tub and free WiFi, this brilliant hotel is a cut above its price range. From its excellent location, comfy beds and cosy living room to its classical New Orleans style, this property is an instant gem. While the pool and hot tub are only open seasonally, there is a great selection of bars and restaurants open nearby, perfect for delivering some romantic, festive or luxurious meals whenever you fancy!
Sonder – The Bywater | Best Hotel in The Bywater
The 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 neighborhood.
Things to Do in The Bywater
- See colourful and quirky works of art at Dr Bob Art.
- Visit the incredible Music Box Village, where each house in this contemporary art gallery is a different musical instrument.
- Check out the massive art exhibitions at Studi BE.
- Head on an expedition to explore some of New Orleans’ rowdiest characters with a street art and mural tour.
- Get a dose of local flavour at Elizabeth’s.
- Take a long walk down Royal Street.
- Enjoy the craft selections at Bacchanal Fine Wine & Spirits.
7. The Garden District – Where to Stay for Long-Term Travellers
The 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.
Greek Apartment Two Blocks from St. Charles Av. | Best Airbnb in The Garden District
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.
The Quisby | Best Hostel in The Garden District
Ready for an upscale hostel in the Garden District? Then come on through to a world of ridiculously comfy beds, blazing WiFi and a delicious free breakfast. As an ex – historic hotel, The Quisby really gives an impressive atmosphere.
The Charles Avenue street car stops around 100 feet from the hostels door, meaning you will have great transport connections during your stay. Open mic nights inbound.
Club Wyndham Avenue Plaza | Best Hotel in The Garden District
Nestled 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 Do in the Garden District:
- Check out the stunning design of the tombs in the Leafy Lafayette Cemetery.
- Visit the grand Walter Grinnan Robinson House.
- Discover the cuisine of this awesome city by eating like a local. You won’t know until you try.
- Shop for vintage items down Magazine Street.
- Enjoy creole food at Commander’s Palace.
- Let yourself be led on a Garden District walking tour. There is a surprising amount of history here!
- Have brunch at Ruby Slipper Cafe.
- Watch the Mardi Gras parade on St. Charles Avenue.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs about the Best Places to Stay in New Orleans
Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of New Orleans and where to stay.
What To Pack For New Orleans
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for New Orleans
Life hath no respawn button. Just horrendous pain and endless debt. Do the right thing and make sure your mother doesn’t need a second mortgage. Happy living folks 🙂
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in New Orleans
Wild 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 neighborhoods 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.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around New Orleans.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in New Orleans.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in New Orleans instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in New Orleans to plan your trip.
- Planning out an itinerary for New Orleans is a great way to maximise your time.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for USA.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
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!
