Are you heading to New Orleans? If you want to be in the heart of the Bourbon Street action, a hotel in the French Quarter is your best bet. The French Quarter, or Vieux Carré, is a historic neighborhood that stretches 12 blocks from the Mississippi River. It has a mix of colorful Creole houses, museums, delicious cakes, and a thriving nightlife. After visiting the area’s best hotels and assessing how each one stacks up against the competition, we’re here to tell you that they’re the best in the French Quarter.
The French Quarter hotels embody the history and style of their surroundings and provide direct access to other tourist attractions in New Orleans, including Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral. These hotels are also close to a host of jazz clubs, unique museums, and authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine.
The city’s original “main street,” Canal Street, connects uptown and downtown with the historic Canal Streetcar and offers many famous hotels and places to spend the night. It’s a prominent avenue for parades and celebrations, including Mardi Gras, and hotels on Canal Street are also close to many local shops, theaters, and restaurants. So if you’re visiting New Orleans during Carnival season (January-March), expect hotels on Canal Street to be in high demand.
For even more aesthetic appeal and historic charm, the Garden District of New Orleans boasts stunning 19th-century homes and plenty of opportunity to stretch your legs and take in the views. Hotels in the Garden District add to the surroundings of this pleasant neighborhood, providing a different charm than the French Quarter three miles away. A classic New Orleans fine dining restaurant in the Garden District, Commander’s Palace offers an authentic experience with every meal.
Audubon Cottages
Advantage
Central yet quiet location in the French Quarter
Gorgeous one and two-bedroom cottages with different decorations
Great amenities like flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, and Keurig coffeemakers
Courtyard charm with a heated saltwater pool
Butler and turndown service
Complimentary breakfast is delivered to rooms daily
Free WIFI
Cons
There is no full restaurant
Fee for valet parking (available at a sister property a block away)
Summary
Featuring a gorgeous Tuscan-style courtyard with a heated saltwater pool; seven one- and two-bedroom exclusive cabins; first-class services; and a central French Quarter location, the Audubon Cottages is an excellent pick for travelers looking to splurge. Note that there are no services other than the pool, and parking is only available at the hotel’s sister property a block away.
Hotel Mazarin
Advantage
It is centrally located in the heart of the French Quarter, just off Bourbon Street.
Quaint, spacious rooms with flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and iPod docks
Sleek black porcelain bathrooms with rain showers and robes
Lovely patio with wrought-iron seating and fruit-infused water
Upscale wine bar with funky indoor and outdoor seating
Complimentary, tasty breakfast includes eggs, bacon, pastries, and fresh fruit
Free welcome drink at nearby 21st Amendment Bar
Small gym with cardio machines and free weights
Business center with printer and attractive event space
Free Wi-Fi for the entire property
Cons
poor sound insulation
Limited storage, and bathroom hooks and counter space
No full restaurant, pool, or spa
parking fee
Summary
The Hotel Mazarin is an upper-middle-range boutique located in the heart of the French Quarter, just a half-block from Bourbon and Royal streets. The 102 rooms are charming and elegant, with black-tiled bathrooms, iPod docks, and coffeemakers. Unfortunately, thin walls create noise issues for all rooms. Wonderful freebies include extensive hot and cold breakfasts, welcome drinks at a nearby bar, and Wi-Fi. Though there’s no spa, pool, or full restaurant, there is a popular wine bar with outdoor seating and a lovely, greenery-filled patio that provides a respite from the crowds. This is a solid pick for those looking to explore the main tourist attractions on foot and who don’t mind a bit of noise at night. Travelers who want a quieter boutique should consider the Inn on St. Peter.
Hotel Le Marais
Advantage
Central location just off Bourbon Street in the French Quarter
Contemporary rooms with flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers, and iPod docks
Some rooms have furnished balconies with courtyard or street views
Quaint courtyard with a small heated saltwater pool and plush seating
Free drink at the cheerful bar with daily happy hour
Complimentary breakfast with eggs, bacon, continental fare, and coffee
Small gym with cardio machines and free weights
Free wi-fi in all the hotel
Valet parking and laundry services available (fees)
Cons
External and internal noise complaints
No full restaurant or room service
No mini-fridges in the room
Half-split showers can cause wet floors
Some dirty seats by the pool
The room decor is a bit bland and generic
Summary
Hotel Le Marais is a mid-range boutique located in the heart of the French Quarter, half a block from Bourbon and Royal streets. Its 66 rooms are contemporary and a good size, if a bit bland and generic, and some have furnished balconies. Quality amenities consist of flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers, bathrobes, and free Wi-Fi, though there are no mini-fridges, and many guests have complained of noise from the street, adjoining rooms, and elevators. Great freebies include daily hot and cold breakfasts, welcome drinks from the bar, and bottled water in the room. The highlight here is the beautiful courtyard with a small heated saltwater pool and ample seating. This is a good option for travelers wanting a hotel with a calm atmosphere that is still close to all the action. On the other hand, it’s worth comparing rates with the similar but more charming Hotel Mazarin.
Bourbon Orleans Hotel
Advantage
Great French Quarter location between Bourbon and Royal Streets
19th-century building with a historical past; free haunted history tours provided
Traditionally elegant rooms with flat-screen TVs, toiletries, and mini-fridges
Some rooms have furnished balconies
Pretty courtyard with a heated saltwater pool and ample loungers
Creole restaurants open for breakfast and dinner
Bourbon O bar offers a complimentary welcome drink and live music
Well-equipped 24-hour fitness center
On-site meeting and event venues
Free Wi-Fi throughout
Cons
Some rooms suffer from noise from bar or street
Rooms can be small and face a brick wall
a little wear
Daily fee for valet parking
Summary
The upper-middle-range Bourbon Orleans is a grand southern hotel with a brooding past and a great location in the French Quarter between Bourbon Street and art-lined Royal Street. The 218 rooms are classically elegant and come with mini-fridges, coffeemakers, free Wi-Fi, hairdryers, and balconies. However, some are small, face a brick wall, and/or suffer from street noise. Charming features include a pleasantly heated courtyard pool popular in the summer, a Creole restaurant, and a popular bar where guests receive a welcome drink and listen to live music. There’s also a well-equipped 24-hour fitness center and stylish event spaces. This is an excellent option, but travelers who want something a little more modern may prefer the upscale and similarly priced Royal Sonesta.
Omni Royal Orleans
Advantage
Located in the French Quarter, two blocks from Jackson Square
Elegant rooms with high-end services; some have balconies
Exceptional historic restaurant and two bars
Heated saltwater rooftop pool with an observation deck and a bar
Well-equipped gym with natural light
Counseling, babysitting service, and turndown service
14,000 square feet of flexible meeting space
One-time pets, non-refundable fee
Wi-Fi in shared spaces; free in rooms for loyalty program members
Cons
Some small rooms and bathrooms
Valet parking fee
Summary
The Omni Royal Orleans is an upscale business hotel housed in a historic building in the French Quarter. It has 345 stylish rooms with solid amenities like flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, and stocked minibars. In addition, it has a renowned restaurant, rooftop heated saltwater pool, and fitness center. But there’s a charge for in-room Wi-Fi (free for Omni loyalty program customers) and valet parking.
Hotel Monteleone
Advantage
Historic, grande dame property one block from Bourbon Street
Home of the legendary Carousel Bar
Quaint, traditional rooms with Keurig machines and iPod docks
Some rooms have whirlpool tubs or separate living spaces
All-day Creole restaurant serving Louisiana fare, plus a bar
Pleasant rooftop pool lined with loungers
Full-service spa offering massages and nail treatments
Window gym with city views and a good range of equipment
Free Wi-Fi for the entire property
On-site parking, business center, and ample meeting space
Cons
Noise complaints, especially in street-facing rooms
Dated decor won’t suit all tastes
Some rooms and most bathrooms are small
There are no balconies in the room
The lobby bar and lobby are often crowded and busy.
Summary
The 600-room, four-pearl Hotel Monteleone is a historic grande dame property home to several literary icons. Today it’s famous for its famous Carousel Bar and its central French Quarter location on gallery-lined Royal Street, just a block from bustling Bourbon Street. The traditionally elegant rooms may be dated (and small) for some, but others find they fit in with the property’s overall charm. Keurig coffeemakers, free Wi-Fi, and mini-fridges are provided, but rooms lack balconies, and many suffer from street noise. A rooftop pool offers a respite from the bustling city, as does a full-service spa, an all-day restaurant serving regional cuisine, and a fitness center with a good variety of equipment and views of the city. The ample meeting space draws corporate groups, but most guests are vacationing couples. Travelers wanting a more modern stay should consider the Royal Sonesta.
Provincial Hotel
Advantage
Charming, brick, two-story historic hotel with antique furnishings and period-style accents
In the center of the French Quarter, across from the Keyes Beauregard House
Spacious rooms with antique furniture and iPod docks
Small and large pools with cool towels and loungers
free continental breakfast
The Latrobe Room is available for private meetings and banquets
Lovely Ice House Bar and restaurant with happy hour and one-off drink voucher
Business area with a PC and a printer
Brick-lined, lush patios with large and small fountains
Use of self-parking and valet parking for a fee
Freebies include Wi-Fi, safe, and HBO
Cons
Some guests complain of a musty smell
Street-facing rooms and pools can be noisy
The hotel has a lot of steep steps, which could be difficult for people with limited mobility.
Summary
The two-story Hotel Provincial — with 94 rooms in the historic French Quarter — is a haven in old New Orleans. Featuring period architectural details, brick patios, and antique furniture, the hotel also has valet parking, free Wi-Fi, two pools, and an attractive restaurant with happy hour. Rooms complement the hotel’s traditional feel, but old furniture can be damp and moldy, though bathrooms have been remodeled. All in all, it’s one of the best boutique hotels for the price in the neighborhood.
The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans
Advantage
Convenient Canal Street Location
High-ceilinged plush rooms with flat-screen TVs and iPod docks
The largest spa in New Orleans
An extra-large fitness center with a small resistance pool
Farm to Table M Bistro and Davenport Lounge bar
Room service is available
Pets (for a fee)
Cons
Free Wi-Fi only in common areas
Only valet parking
Summary
The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans is housed in the 1908 Maison Blanche Beaux-Arts building on Canal Street, the dividing line between the French Quarter and the central business district. Aimed at luxury travelers, the hotel maintains the royal atmosphere for which the Ritz-Carlton brand is known. With large, elegant rooms, a farm-to-table restaurant, a hop-on hop-off bar, and the largest spa in the city, there’s plenty to do on-site, and its location makes it convenient for tourists and travelers alike. Of business. Wi-Fi connection costs extra.
Royal Sonesta New Orleans
Advantage
Luxury property with a stellar Bourbon Street location
Beautiful and modern rooms inspired by the Art Deco style; some with terraces
In-room Keurig machines, bathrobes, and iHome docking stations
Excellent food includes an oyster bar, coffee shop, and Louisiana cuisine
Famous jazz club with nightly performances
Courtyard pool with seasonal pool bar and ample loungers
R Club Lounge offers free hot breakfasts, happy hours, and snacks
An extensive 24-hour fitness center with a good variety of equipment
20 function spaces on site, and wedding services available
Free Wi-Fi for the entire property
Cons
Thin walls mean internal and external noise problems
No spa on site
Lovely daily parking
Summary
The 483-room, four-pearl Royal Sonesta Hotel New Orleans is Bourbon Street’s most elegant property, drawing a mix of leisure travelers and convention goers. Renovations through 2016 left rooms with a sleek, modern design, with Keurig machines, mini-fridges, and free Wi-Fi. Some have whirlpool tubs or furnished terraces, but both street and internal noise are issues. Club-level guests get their concierge and access to a lounge with free breakfasts, daily happy hours, and drinks throughout the day. Several dining options include an upscale Cajun and Creole restaurant, an oyster bar, and a famous jazz club with nightly performances. A courtyard pool with a seasonal bar is a lovely spot in the warmer months, plus there are fitness centers and 24-hour businesses. Unfortunately, there is no spa available. Travelers wanting a more intimate and historic stay should consider Audubon Cottages.
The Frenchman Hotel
The Frenchmen Hotel offers a fun, bohemian atmosphere, reflecting its enviable location on Frenchmen Street. Filled with jazz bars, buskers, galleries, and cafes, Frenchmen Street’s location in the neighborhood is ideally situated next to alternative Faubourg Marigny. Just minutes from essential French Quarter amenities like Bourbon Street and Café du Monde, the hotel also offers a heated pool in its stunning courtyard for lazy Southern afternoons with old and new friends and a terrace overlooking the Mississippi River. When you’re finally ready for the night, our stylish and cozy rooms are perfect for unwinding after a night on the town.
Lafitte Guest House
A restored 19th-century Creole mansion, Lafitte Guest House captures New Orleans’ reputation for the city’s particular brand of French and Southern elegance and creativity. For example, the hotel has a visitor art gallery with dark wood accents and plush sofas that constantly showcases new work. Overlooking Bourbon Street, Lafitte offers respite from partying outside without leaving the scene. In addition to being directly in the heart of the French Quarter, rooms are equipped with shared and private balconies allowing unprecedented views of the below streets. Spend some time in Lafitte’s Penthouse, Room Forty, for some peace and quiet and maybe even catch a glimpse of the hotel’s resident ghost.
The Cornstalk Hotel
The Cornstalk Hotel boasts a distinguished and quiet Victorian charm, with extravagant period decorations, from stained glass windows to antique furniture, on the always-refined Royal Street. This central location takes guests away from the noise of Bourbon and offers a more traditional New Orleans visit. The hotel acts as a time machine in the Old South, featuring bright, fully furnished rooms with additional fireplaces and chandeliers. Well-suited for the more traditional traveler looking to spend some quality, modern time in the city, the Cornstalk is best enjoyed waking up for coffee on the shared balcony before heading out to embrace the neighborhood.
Hotel Villa Convento
Hotel Villa Convento’s position on Ursulines Avenue is just around the corner from the French Market and lively Decatur Street. With fantastic balcony views of the French Quarter, Hotel Villa Convento is also rumored to be the legendary House of the Rising Sun, a song made famous by Animals and Dolly Parton. Architecturally a Creole townhouse in the traditional French Quarter style, listen as history tours discuss the building on a quiet evening or relax on the brick patio open to visitors.
Place d Armes Hotel
Situated on Jackson Square, the Place d’Armes Hotel is ideally located for those looking to be directly between the French Quarter’s tourist highlights. The hotel offers rooms with a balcony overlooking the streets, as well as rooms overlooking its lush exotic courtyard and swimming pool. By location, Place d’Armes puts guests in the most convenient position for shopping and dining in the heart of the neighborhood and completely engulfs visitors in the bustle of stunning Jackson Square.
The Andrew Jackson Hotel
The historic Andrew Jackson Hotel, located on Royal Street, functions like a southern home, with a welcoming atmosphere that makes guests feel like they are genuinely a part of the French Quarter community. With two pools and a listing on the National Register of Historic Places, the Andrew Jackson is a fantastic example of the important role history plays in the Crescent City’s continuing charm and is well-suited for those seeking a laid-back, southern experience. During your stay.
Le Richelieu Hotel
Le Richelieu, The constant redecoration of the hotel means it lives up to aesthetic and modern standards. The hotel features lavish décor, oil paintings, Persian rugs, and antique furnishings to embody the luxury and glamor associated with New Orleans’ historic, cosmopolitan appeal. It is ingrained in the city’s narrative, as the location has played a role in the 18th century October Rebellion and was the home of The Beatles’ Paul McCartney for several months during his stay in New Orleans. Living up to its reputation for luxury, the hotel boasts a cafe for guests, a gorgeous lobby, and a saltwater pool.
Olivier Guest House Hotel
The beautiful Olivier Guest House Hotel perfectly embodies some of the more gothic elements of the French Quarter, with a deep red exterior accented with black wrought-iron balconies. With spacious red brick rooms and plenty of access to outside areas, the Olivier is a great place to mingle with fellow travelers and hang out between neighborhood adventures. Amenities include 24/7 access to their brilliant cafe and pet-friendly rooms if a family pet wants to join in on the action.
House of Light
Maison de la Luz is a new place to stay near the French Quarter that celebrates the culture of New Orleans. Don’t expect a standard visit to this charming boutique hotel oozing with style. Instead, immerse yourself in luxury and comfort of these lively rooms.
The hotel has 67 rooms, which they describe as “resplendent.” The rooms are attractive to the eye, with elegant furnishings and simple designs. Some special room features include local wall art, reliable Wi-Fi, and luxurious bedding.
All overnight guests enjoy the continental European breakfast served each morning, and reciprocal reservations are offered at nearby restaurants. Guests of the Maison de la Luz can also ditch the car, especially to visit the French Quarter, which is just a short walk away.
French Market Inn
Surrounded by local purveyors of po’boys, beignets, and other authentic New Orleans cuisine, this classic hotel occupies a building first constructed in 1722. With such a long history, a few ghost stories haunt the halls of this historic hotel, and it has a distinct vibe that only comes with age.
Along with the authentic charm and style of old New Orleans, this popular overnight spot features modern amenities and various rooms to fit different budgets. With one king or two queen beds, the rooms at the French Market Inn range from small rooms to rooms with personal balconies to watch the crowds go by.
Address: 509 Decatur Street, New Orleans, Louisiana
Grenoble House
This historic home and a stunning example of New Orleans architecture is one block from Bourbon Street and provides a relaxing retreat from the excitement of the surrounding neighborhood. It features a blend of modern conveniences in a historic setting with 17 suites available, each with full, modern kitchens. These suites range from queen patio rooms to two-bedroom townhome suites.
Exposed brick, high ceilings, and finely furnished common spaces add to the relaxing atmosphere at Grenoble House, even as people celebrate on Bourbon Street during the nearby night.
Parking for Grenoble House is available one block away in a private lot, though guests are advised to stand when exploring from the hotel. The entire French Quarter is within walking distance, and the surrounding Canal Streetcar encourages guests to explore other neighborhoods. This is an ideal hotel for couples looking for a romantic and affordable hotel in the French Quarter, and the hotel is often booked months in advance.
Address: 323 Dauphine Street, New Orleans, Louisiana
W New Orleans – French Quarter
This modern hotel is located two blocks from Bourbon Street and Jackson Square and has a wide range of rooms and suites, all full of style. With balcony rooms available, the W New Orleans is a great way to experience the cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and live entertainment that defines the French Quarter.
On the hotel’s ground floor, local favorite SoBou Restaurant serves authentic “Southern Bourbon” food throughout the day. With a charming outdoor patio perfect for hosting groups, this upscale French Quarter hotel is also famous for events and meetings.
Address: 316 Chartres Street, New Orleans, Louisiana
The Best Hotels On Canal Street
The Saint Hotel, Autograph Collection
With a great location and luxurious furnishings designed for couples and romantic vacations, The Saint Hotel offers an authentic New Orleans experience and a place to stay. The hotel is within walking distance of Bourbon Street and the rest of the French Quarter and close to the Canal Line Streetcar.
New Orleans culture is found in the lobby and at the front door. The Saint hotel’s restaurant and lounge offer great entertainment throughout the day and night, featuring live jazz performances and delicious southern food with a twist.
Address: 931 Canal Street, New Orleans, Louisiana
Sheraton New Orleans Hotel
This four-star hotel is minutes from Bourbon Street and close to the New Orleans Convention Center. It features floor-to-ceiling windows in every room and suite and a rooftop pool for the best view of the city and the Mississippi River.
On-site dining at this luxurious place to stay includes authentic Cajun flavor found at Bistro Roux on the main floor. It’s a great hotel for personal travel and family vacations, and the abundance of meeting space and high-speed Internet throughout makes this Sheraton ideal for business engagements, too.
Address: 500 Canal Street, New Orleans, Louisiana
The Jung Hotel & Residences
This luxurious New Orleans hotel features more than 200 guest rooms and comfortable common spaces, including a rooftop pool on Upper Canal Street near the St. Louis Cemeteries.
The hotel is close to the central business district and theater district and is popular for all types of travel, including business travel, pleasure-seeking, and family vacations. In addition, the excellent location allows easy access to New Orleans’ top attractions, including the Mercedes Benz Superdome and the French Quarter, within a short commute.
Address: 1500 Canal Street, New Orleans, Louisiana
Canal Street Inn
At the top of Canal Street in downtown New Orleans, this historic bed and breakfast offers a home-away-from-home feel and proximity to many of the city’s top attractions. In addition, nearly all of New Orleans can be accessed from the Canal Street Inn without a car, thanks to the nearby Canal Streetcar line.
This charming bed and breakfast offers complimentary parking for those who prefer to drive. While the decadent common spaces and individualized rooms and suites often entice visitors to stay an extra day, the high-quality food and exceptional service at this historic place encourage repeat visits.
Address: 3620 Canal Street, New Orleans, Louisiana
Royal French Hotel
The Royal Frenchmen Hotel is perfect for guests who want to experience Frenchmen Street and the French Quarter. Royal Frenchmen Hotel is a smaller accommodation with 16 rooms, including three suites. This four-star hotel is also home to a popular bar that offers craft beer, cocktails, and wine.
Royal Street Inn
It is close enough to the French Quarter that a walk to lively Bourbon Street only takes about 10 minutes. Located in the Marigny neighborhood of New Orleans, the Royal Street Inn is one block from the French Quarter and Frenchmen Street. This Big Easy accommodation is not only a hotel but also a lively bar. The R Bar is a popular nightlife spot, so if you want a taste of the local nightlife away from Bourbon Street, look no further than the Royal Street Inn.
Melrose Mansion
This luxury boutique hotel in the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood is housed in a historic mansion from 1884. Melrose Mansion has 21 beautiful suites that genuinely evoke the history and charm of Crescent City. After enjoying a continental breakfast, relax poolside before browsing the shops on Royal Street, taking a tour of the French Quarter, or listening to some jazz on Frenchmen Street.
Hotel Casa Lamothe
Lamothe House is a Faubourg Marigny hotel featuring beautiful guest rooms and suites within walking distance of Bourbon Street and Frenchmen Street. The main building of Lamothe House was built in 1839. This lodging near the French Quarter has an Old World feel with antique furnishings and a lush courtyard with a pool.
The Roosevelt New Orleans
Fifteen minutes is all it takes to walk to Jackson Square or the Louisiana Superdome when you stay at this four-star hotel. The Roosevelt New Orleans is a luxury lodging option that offers several great amenities that many of the hotels on this list seem to lack. With an on-site pool, spa, two on-site restaurants, and even a jazz bar, it’s hard to find anything to complain about when staying at the Roosevelt.
Renaissance New Orleans Arts Warehouse District Hotel
Ditch the French Quarter on this trip to New Orleans and choose to explore the Warehouse District instead. The Renaissance New Orleans Arts Warehouse District Hotel is close to the French Quarter if you want to visit some great bars, restaurants, and historical sites. This hotel operates in a former warehouse with a contemporary feel. The Warehouse District is known for its excellent cuisine, so take advantage of upscale restaurants while staying here at the Renaissance.
Sheraton New Orleans Hotel
Another Canal Street hotel to consider for your New Orleans getaway should be the Sheraton New Orleans Hotel. This Sheraton location is perfect for your special event or business meeting, featuring a ballroom and plenty of meeting space. On the outskirts of the French Quarter, the pet-friendly Sheraton overlooks the Mississippi River and has a rooftop pool.
