Where to Stay in New Orleans
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Top 3 Areas to Stay in New Orleans
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Uptown (Irish Channel/Touro)
Lively, diverse neighborhood known for its excellent restaurants, bars, and proximity to Tulane and Loyola Universities.
Our top picks in Uptown (Irish Channel/Touro)
Modern hotel adjacent to the National WWII Museum, offering good amenities.
Book NowHistoric boutique hotel with charming cottages and suites in the French Quarter.
Book NowElegant boutique hotel consistently rated for its service and location.
Book NowMarigny
Bohemian neighborhood renowned for its vibrant live music scene, especially on Frenchmen Street.
Our top picks in Marigny
Garden District
Elegant residential area famous for its stunning Victorian mansions and lush gardens.
Our top picks in Garden District
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Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Uptown (Irish Channel/Touro) | Mid-range | Lively, diverse neighborhood known for its excellent restaurants, bars, and proximity to Tulane and Loyola Universities. | foodiesnightlife |
French Quarter | Luxury | Historic heart of the city, brimming with iconic architecture, lively music, and abundant nightlife. | first-timersnightlife |
Marigny | Mid-range | Bohemian neighborhood renowned for its vibrant live music scene, especially on Frenchmen Street. | nightlifefoodies |
Garden District | Mid-range | Elegant residential area famous for its stunning Victorian mansions and lush gardens. | culturecouples |
Find budget-friendly hostels in New Orleans
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in New Orleans
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in New Orleans. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in New Orleans
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting New Orleans
Uptown (Irish Channel/Touro)
Mid-rangeLively, diverse neighborhood known for its excellent restaurants, bars, and proximity to Tulane and Loyola Universities.
- +Abundant and diverse dining and bar options
- +More local and less touristy feel
- +Good value for money
- -Further from major French Quarter attractions (requires streetcar or taxi)
- -Can be noisy near university areas
French Quarter
LuxuryHistoric heart of the city, brimming with iconic architecture, lively music, and abundant nightlife.
- +Unmatched historical atmosphere
- +Concentration of famous attractions and restaurants
- +Constant entertainment and music
- -Can be overwhelmingly crowded and noisy, especially on weekends
- -Higher prices for accommodation and food
Marigny
Mid-rangeBohemian neighborhood renowned for its vibrant live music scene, especially on Frenchmen Street.
- +World-class live music venues
- +More local feel than the French Quarter
- +Great restaurants and bars
- -Can be loud on music nights
- -Fewer major tourist attractions within walking distance
Garden District
Mid-rangeElegant residential area famous for its stunning Victorian mansions and lush gardens.
- +Beautiful architecture and tranquil atmosphere
- +Excellent for walking and photography
- +Access to boutique shopping and dining on Magazine Street
- -Limited nightlife
- -Fewer dining options compared to more central areas
- -Can feel quiet at night
Daily Budget (Budget)
USD 100/day
Hidden Gems in New Orleans
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Elizabeth's Restaurant
A beloved Bywater institution famous for its eclectic decor and hearty, creative Southern comfort food, including their legendary praline bacon. It's a quirky, vibrant spot that truly captures the spirit of a neighborhood eatery.
Frenchmen Art Market
FREEWhile Frenchmen Street is known for music, this adjacent open-air market showcases local artists selling everything from paintings and jewelry to handmade crafts. It's a fantastic place to find unique souvenirs and support New Orleans artists.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in New Orleans
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
New Orleans Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover New Orleans on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
New Orleans Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through New Orleans with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
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Best of New Orleans: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into New Orleans's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
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Day Trip from New Orleans: Scenic Excursion
Escape New Orleans for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
New Orleans Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with New Orleans's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
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2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for New Orleans
Backpackers in New Orleans: FAQ
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