Where to Stay in New Orleans: Best Luxury Hotels

Where to stay in New Orleans, United States — the best hotels and luxury neighbourhoods, reviewed on the ground, with dining and how long to go for. No sponsored placements.

Where to stay in New Orleans: the best hotels and neighbourhoods

New Orleans, Louisiana, beckons with an intoxicating blend of rich cultural heritage, unparalleled musical rhythms, and a distinctive culinary scene. This vibrant city offers a luxury journey into its soulful depths, from opulent French Quarter courtyards to sophisticated jazz clubs and gastronomic masterpieces, all steeped in an alluring, historic charm.

• Location: New Orleans, United States
• Region: North America
• Recommended length of stay: 3–5 nights

Best neighbourhoods to stay in New Orleans

French Quarter

Historic, vibrant, and enchanting. Iron-laced balconies, gas lamps, and a living history.. Best for History, architecture, nightlife, and iconic New Orleans experiences.. Where to stay: A private historical walking tour revealing the Quarter's hidden stories and courtyards..

Garden District

Gracious, opulent, and serene. Grand mansions, lush gardens, and oak-lined streets.. Best for Architecture enthusiasts, peaceful strolls, and a glimpse into Southern aristocracy.. Where to stay: A leisurely afternoon admiring the magnificent homes and manicured landscapes..

Uptown

Chic, residential, and gastronomic. Home to Tulane and Loyola universities, charming boutiques, and superb dining.. Best for Local culture, sophisticated dining, and a less touristy experience.. Where to stay: Exploring Magazine Street for unique boutiques and art galleries..

Marigny/Bywater

Bohemian, artistic, and musically rich. Live music venues, colorful homes, and a strong local arts scene.. Best for Jazz clubs, emerging art, and an authentic, edgy New Orleans atmosphere.. Where to stay: Catching an impromptu jazz performance on Frenchmen Street..

Where to eat near your hotel in New Orleans

• Commander's Palace — Haute Creole, Traditional — $$ — Turtle Soup, Pecan Crusted Gulf Fish, and the famous Bread Pudding Soufflé. Opt for the jazz brunch.
• Emeril's New Orleans — New Louisiana, Contemporary — $$ — BBQ Shrimp, and anything off their daily fresh seafood specials.
• Brennan's — Creole, Classic Finer Dining — $$ — Eggs Hussarde for breakfast, and Bananas Foster prepared tableside for dinner.
• Restaurant R'evolution — Reinvented Cajun & Creole — $$ — Death by Gumbo, and the "Tails and Trotters" (pork belly & scallops).

Local intel: what to do in New Orleans

• Hire a private guide for a bespoke tour of the French Quarter, focusing on specific interests like literature, voodoo, or hidden courtyards.
• Beyond Bourbon Street, explore the vibrant live music scene on Frenchmen Street in the Marigny for authentic jazz and local bands.
• Consider a private swamp tour with an experienced naturalist for a unique encounter with Louisiana's rich wildlife.

A 3–5 nights plan for New Orleans

1

Morning: Arrive and settle into your luxury hotel in the French Quarter. Begin with a private, in-depth historical walking tour of the Quarter, discovering its architectural marvels and secret gardens. Afternoon: Enjoy a sophisticated Creole lunch at Brennan's, followed by browsing antique shops on Royal Street and exploring Jackson Square. Evening: Savor an exquisite dinner at Restaurant R'evolution, indulging in their reinvented Cajun and Creole classics, followed by a romantic carriage ride through the illuminated Quarter.

2

Morning: Take a private guided walking tour of the Garden District, marveling at the antebellum mansions and lush landscapes, including a visit to Lafayette Cemetery No. 1. Afternoon: Indulge in a world-renowned jazz brunch at Commander's Palace, an iconic New Orleans institution with impeccable service. Afterwards, explore the upscale boutiques on Magazine Street. Evening: Experience the vibrant energy of Frenchmen Street in the Marigny, hopping between live jazz clubs and enjoying cocktails. A late-night snack of beignets from Café Du Monde is a must.

3

Morning: Embark on a private New Orleans cooking class, learning to prepare classic Creole and Cajun dishes from a renowned local chef. Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely steamboat cruise on the Mississippi River, offering stunning views of the city skyline and historic riverfront. Alternatively, visit the National WWII Museum for a profound historical experience. Evening: Conclude your trip with a farewell dinner at Emeril's New Orleans, savoring high-end New Louisiana cuisine. Enjoy a final toast to the city's unique charm at a sophisticated cocktail lounge.

Getting around New Orleans

For luxury transit, a dedicated chauffeured sedan or SUV is highly recommended, especially for airport transfers and excursions outside the city center. Within the French Quarter, walking is the most charming option, while elegant streetcars offer a quintessential New Orleans experience for longer distances, such as to the Garden District.

Travel tips for international visitors to New Orleans

• How long to stay: 3–5 nights
• Language: While English is standard, you'll encounter unique local patois and Creole phrases. Learning a few simple greetings like 'Laissez les bons temps rouler!' (Let the good times roll!) will be appreciated.

What to skip in New Orleans

• Venture too far off well-lit main streets late at night alone, especially in less familiar areas.
• Assuming casual attire is acceptable everywhere; many fine dining establishments have dress codes.
• Only sticking to Bourbon Street; the true spirit and luxury of New Orleans lie in its diverse neighborhoods and cultural offerings.

The best luxury hotels in New Orleans, United States cluster in a handful of districts, and the district matters more than the name on the door. Plan on 3–5 nights to do New Orleans properly.

New Orleans city guide · reviewed luxury hotels · best time of year to go · destinations across North America · luxury hotels by city · compare New Orleans with other cities

Published by Peters Signature Travel.