The French Quarter in New Orleans is known for its traditional-style hotels. The neighborhood that has been touched by centuries of influence from around the world. Founded by the French in 1718, it is the oldest neighborhood in the city and has a rich history that can be seen in its architecture, culture, and cuisine. It is home to iconic landmarks such as Jackson Square, Bourbon Street, and St. Louis Cathedral. There are also many restaurants, bars, shops, galleries, and a thriving live music scene that makes the French Quarter a superb place to stay for anyone visiting the city or touring Louisiana. These French Quarter hotels have been selected for top-rated service, accommodations, facilities, and enviable position close to must-see sights.
The Best Hotels in the French Quarter, New Orleans, Perfect for Mardi Gras
When is the best time to visit New Orleans?
The best time to visit New Orleans is from February to May when the weather is comfortably cool and the celebrations are in full swing. Early spring and late fall is also a great time to explore the city and taste a wide variety of local seafood. November through December is another great time to visit as temperatures are plenty mild for sightseeing. For those looking for cheaper rates, April, May, and October usually offer good deals. However, if you’re looking for a party atmosphere, Mardi Gras season runs from January through mid-March.
We hope you love the French Quarter hotels downtown we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay.
Traveling to New Orleans? Check out Matador’s accommodations guides to the city:
The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans
The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans, delivers everything you’d expect from the exclusive brand. It also has an enviable address on the edges of the French Quarter. It is situated on Canal Street, just a few minutes away from Bourbon Street and Harrah’s New Orleans Casino. A streetcar is accessible from right outside and all the attractions and dining experiences of downtown and the Central Business District are within walking distance.
Once a prestigious department store, the hotel dates back to the early 1900s and features stunning Beaux arts architecture with high ceilings, grand staircases, and elegant chandeliers. Service levels are as high as you’d assume. Nothing is too much. Luxurious amenities such as one of the few destination spas in the city, an extra-large fitness center, Louisiana-inspired dishes at the on-site restaurant, M Bistro, and live jazz performances on weekends, make this one of the best value for money hotels in the city.
The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans: 921 Canal St, New Orleans, LA, 70112
Price per night: $384
W New Orleans
The W New Orleans feels like a mini resort in the sweet spot of the French Quarter. The French Quarter is a relatively small area, but some parts are nicer than others. The W is a little haven in a place that can oftentimes feel somewhat overcrowded and touristy. The modern, upscale property is just two blocks away from Bourbon Street and provides 166 rooms and suites with a sexy low-lighting, bold colour schemes and adult-only atmosphere. The hotel’s best feature is its heated pool that is surrounded by greenery and cabanas where you’ll feel like you’re in the south of France rather than Louisiana.
W New Orleans: 316 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA, 70130
Price per night: $301
The Westin New Orleans
This waterfront hotel is situated on Canal Street overlooking the Mississippi River. The Westin hotel offers an unparalleled experience in the heart of the French Quarter mainly due to its outstanding views and location. Guests can enjoy a stunning outlook of the river and city skyline from their rooms, as well as easy access to all that the city has to offer. It’s also a great option for those looking for somewhere to host an event (there’s 29,000 square feet space avilable) and or proximity to the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. The modern hotel offers a variety of room types, ranging from standard guest rooms to luxurious suites with balconies and panoramic views.
The Westin New Orleans: 100 Rue Iberville, New Orleans, LA, 70130
Price per night: $267
One11 Hotel
At the end of Iberville Street, there’s not much between the One11 Hotel and the banks of the Mississippi. This sophisticated boutique-style hotel offers guests an escape from the hustle and bustle of the Quarter, while still being close to all the attractions that make New Orleans one of America’s most beloved cities. The former sugar factory offers a nod to the past with its exposed brick, wood beams, and wood and iron columns. In addition to its many amenities, One11 Hotel also offers guests plenty of activities within its premises, such as live music performances or art exhibitions. The hotel also hosts special events throughout the year, such as Mardi Gras celebrations or holiday festivities.
One11 Hotel: 111 Iberville Street, New Orleans, LA, 70130
Price per night: $227
Four Points By Sheraton French Quarter
Four Points by Sheraton French Quarter’s exterior features a classic French-style architecture (it’s housed in the former French Opera House), while the interior is dressed in modern furnishings with comfortable rooms. If you’re coming to New Orleans to party on Bourbon Street, but want somewhere quiet to return to, Four Points gives you front row seats to the action and reliability. Some rooms have balconies looking directing out onto the main street, which are one of the best places in town to watch Mardi Gras and other events. Behind the property, away from the clammer, guests can enjoy a serene courtyard with a lovely outdoor pool. Another prime spot for people watching is from the on-site bar and restaurant, which looks out onto Bourbon Street.
Four Points By Sheraton French Quarter: 541 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA, 70130
Price per night: $197
Hyatt Centric French Quarter
There have been a few hotels mentioned here with a pool, and this must not be looked over. New Orleans can get uncomfortably hot and busy. So having access to a shaded pool area is a huge draw. The Hyatt’s dominant feature, other than its trustworthy brand name, is the pristine courtyard pool area, which many ground-floor rooms open out to. The hotel sits in the upper north-western corner of the French Quarter. It neighbors other big names such as The Ritz-Carlton and a bunch of high-end restaurants. It caters to the usual business point collecting crowd, but has a playful atmosphere, so expect young weekenders too. For a 254-room hotel, you’ll find a reassuring level of amenities. As well as the pool area, there are business and fitness centres and an outstanding dining option. It’s a superb all-rounder.
Hyatt Centric French Quarter: 800 Iberville Street, New Orleans, LA, 70112
Price per night: $197
Bourbon Orleans Hotel
The Bourbon Orleans Hotel is a city institution. The building dates back to the early 1800s and once a ballroom and then a convent before opening its doors as a hotel. The hotel lies plum in the middle of the French Quarter between Bourbon Street and Royal Street and is a short stroll from all major cultural highlights. It’s retained traditional styling with rich textiles, marble pillars, and chandeliers. All amenities are present and correct, including one of the nicest outdoor pools in New Orleans. If you are looking for somewhere that has character and history mirroring the French Quarter, look no further.
Bourbon Orleans Hotel: 717 Orleans St., New Orleans, LA, 70116
Price per night: $188
What’s the difference between Bourbon Street and the French Quarter?
Bourbon Street and the French Quarter are two of the most iconic locations in New Orleans, Louisiana. The French Quarter is a historic neighborhood located in the heart of the city, while Bourbon Street is a 13-block stretch that runs through the center of the French Quarter.
Is the French Quarter walkable?
The French Quarter is one of the most walkable neighborhoods in New Orleans. The iconic neighborhood is within walking distance of hotels, venues, attractions and many of the city’s other must-sees.
The best things to do in the French Quarter in New Orleans
- Visit St. Louis Cathedral: The oldest continually running Catholic cathedral in the United States, St. Louis Cathedral is a must-see when visiting the French Quarter.
- Explore Jackson Square: This breathtaking square is the heart of the French Quarter and surrounded by archetypal creole townhouses, full of shops, bars and restaurants.
- Visit historic Museums: There are many museums to explore in the French Quarter, including The Cabildo, Presbytere and Old US Mint which tell stories about Louisiana’s rich history.
- Enjoy classic New Orleans fine dining: From seafood gumbo to beignets, there are plenty of delicious dishes to try while exploring the French Quarter.
- Shop at The French Market: This historic market has been around since 1791 and offers everything from fresh produce to souvenirs and handmade crafts.
