New Orleans, the Big Easy, with its intoxicating blend of music, food, and culture, is a destination worth multiple visits. That said, one of our favorite spots to experience its magic is none other than the heart of the historic French Quarter. However, even in this neighborhood alone, we sometimes felt overwhelmed since there were so many different hotels vying for our attention. But with a unique blend of charm, character, and impeccable service, the French Quarter boutique hotels New Orleans has to offer are a standout. The following boutique hotels are our top picks. At these hotels, every detail whispers of Southern hospitality, where unique experience takes center stage, and where each stay feels like an intimate rendezvous with the city’s soul. Enough with the introduction, and let’s dive into the list!
Table of contents
- French Market Inn
- Prince Conti Hotel
- Hotel Le Marais
- Place D’Armes Hotel
- Ace Hotel New Orleans
- Hotel Mazarin
- Hotel St. Marie
- Hotel Provincial
- Hotel Peter and Paul
- Maison de la Luz
- One11 Hotel
- Our Verdict!
- Where to Stay in French Quarter, New Orleans
- Is it better to stay in the French Quarter in New Orleans?
- Can you walk around the French Quarter in New Orleans?
- What is the most famous street in the French Quarter New Orleans?
French Market Inn
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We loved everything about French Market Inn – from its central location to its absence of conveniences that make it unique. We knew this boutique hotel wasn’t a glamorous accommodation. However, what we didn’t expect was the absence of elevators. We still can recall the moment we found out we had to carry our luggage up to our room. We weren’t mad at all, though. In fact, we found it funny, and at least we got to burn some extra calories. Plus, isn’t that what makes boutique hotels attractive? You’ll never know what’s coming! Luckily, after we were done getting our luggage into our room, we were able to relax in the pool.
Though the rooms may lack modern frills, they offer a unique window into the city’s past. Expect exposed brick walls and vintage decorations. This boutique hotel’s greatest allure, however, lies in its location. It took us only a five-minute stroll to reach Jackson Square. Whether you want to explore the historic market or stroll down Bourbon Street, everything is within easy reach. Psst! This hotel is rumored to be haunted!
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Prince Conti Hotel
10
From the moment we stepped into the beautiful lobby of Prince Conti Hotel, a sense of timeless hospitality engulfed us. The 24/7 concierge service ensured we were never far from assistance, whether we were seeking advice on hidden gems or planning our next adventure. While the French Quarter buzzes with lively energy, the hotel itself provides a welcome sanctuary of tranquility. The rooms here are meticulously designed with a focus on comfort. Each space allows you to fully embrace the fresh New Orleans air and the addition of the likes of coffeemakers and ironing facilities add a touch of homey delight.
On top of that, the Bombay Club, the on-site restaurant, deserves a standing ovation. Every evening, the air comes alive with the melodies of live piano music as you explore the Nouveau Creole cuisines. And for cocktail connoisseurs like us, a dizzying array of over 100 unique martinis awaits, promising an intoxicating exploration of mixology. With its central location, luxurious touches, and awesome on-site amenities, we truly had one of our best stays thanks to this hotel.
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Hotel Le Marais
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Hotel La Marais, one of the top French Quarter boutique hotels New Orleans has to offer, allows you to enjoy the perfect balance of modern amenities and French Quarter flair. Here, every single room is well-appointed and cozy, featuring a flat-screen TV for entertainment, a work desk for digital nomads, and a seating area. We stayed in the Deluxe King Room and we couldn’t have asked for anything better. We also loved the robes, which were perfect for lounging around after a day full of walking.
This hotel isn’t just about crashing after a day of sightseeing. There was plenty to keep us entertained and relaxed on-site. For one, we could take a dip in the heated swimming pool. We were also invited to unwind in the lounge and feel the warmth of the sun in the stunning landscaped courtyard. If you want to stay productive, a fitness center is available. But let’s face it, you’re in the French Quarter for the atmosphere! This hotel puts you right in the heart of the action, perfect for soaking up the vibrant nightlife and indulging in delicious Creole cuisine. Also, did you know that Hotel La Marais is one of the top gay-friendly hotels in New Orleans?
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Place D’Armes Hotel
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Step back in time at Place D’Armes Hotel, a historic treasure in the French Quarter. Like other historic hotels in New Orleans, the building boasts an old-world feel. However, the rooms themselves are a delightful blend of history and modern comfort. Each unit features the must-have amenities, ensuring you have everything you may ever need. We stayed in the Standard King Room, and one thing that we noticed was instead of a flat-screen TV, the room featured a vintage tube TV. This was a unique touch, taking the hotel’s age-old atmosphere to a whole new level.
The heart of the hotel is none other than the courtyard. It’s an enchanting spot on the property that showcases different kinds of plants along with fountains and a saltwater pool. We loved spending our time there before venturing out. While exploring the city on foot and exploring the hidden corners are a must, Caesars Superdome and Lafayette Cemetry are easily accessible within a short ride if you want to venture further.
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Ace Hotel New Orleans
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Best Rooftop Amenities. At Ace Hotel, you’ll be transported into a world of curated cool. When we first arrived at the lobby, we were greeted with creative energy, adorned with artwork by local artists. The overall atmosphere of the hotel while we were there was modern yet inviting, with pops of vintage charm and a palpable sense of Southern hospitality. It also boasts a diverse culinary scene. During our stay, we made sure to visit the on-site Josephine Estelle. It served us delicious Italian cuisine with a Southern twist. There’s also SeaWorthy, the place to be for fresh oysters and craft cocktails. And for our daily caffeine fix, we would head to Stumptown Coffee Roasters.
“This hotel offers a memorable stay in the Big Easy. Its stylish design, comfy accommodations, and vibrant atmosphere are sure to make your trip unforgettable.”
WOW Travel
This hotel is all about creating a memorable experience, and it gave us exactly that. Guests are invited to take a dip in the rooftop pool and soak up the city views at the rooftop bar. These amenities make the hotel one of the best hotels with a rooftop pool in New Orleans. Additionally, there’s a fitness center and live music, too. Ace’s rooms are super stylish and functional. We had everything we needed. Think flat-screen TV, plush bed, and minibar. Some rooms even come with a guitar, adding a touch of rock and roll to your New Orleans experience.
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Hotel Mazarin
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Like many other French Quarter accommodations, Hotel Mazarin is only a short stroll from Bourbon Street’s infectious energy. Personally, we were huge fans of the location. The history of Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral was only a 10-minute stroll away, and we didn’t even sweat. For jazz lovers, the Mahalia Jackson Theater and Louis Armstrong Park are also nearby. Not in the mood to venture out? Don’t worry; you can work out in the 24-hour fitness center and maintain your workout routine. For those seeking assistance, the concierge services are always at your disposal.
No New Orleans stay is complete without indulging in its vibrant nightlife. Hotel Mazarin didn’t disappoint us, as it offered us two distinct on-site bars. 21st Amendment at La Louisiane channels the city’s speakeasy era with crafted cocktails and live music, while Patrick’s Bar Vin provides a sophisticated wine bar experience with an extensive list of vintages and light bites. What about the rooms? We chose the Superior King Room, and it was oozing with rustic vibes. We appreciated the complimentary bottled water, and all the essentials we needed were there, too.
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Hotel St. Marie
5
Hotel St. Marie is only a stone’s throw from the plus of Bourbon Street, offering its guests a taste of classic New Orleans. During our stay, we were able to easily indulge in the street performers, music, and lively atmosphere. Then, we would retreat to the hotel’s courtyard oasis for a refreshing dip in the pool. This beautiful hotel exudes classic European-style vibes, evident in the presence of the wrought-iron balconies and courtyard. We also loved hanging out in the on-site bar. Meanwhile, the restaurant provides a convenient option for grabbing a bite before hitting the streets. We once ordered the sandwich and it was fantastic.
The rooms here don’t boast modern luxuries. Nevertheless, they still offer a comfortable and clean base for your New Orleans adventures. While the rooms still have that old-world authenticity, the same can’t be said with the bathrooms. We were thrilled when we found that they had all the modern amenities. Some rooms even come with a cozy seating area, allowing you to have a minute of relaxation before another exploration.
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Hotel Provincial
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Most Haunted. In the vibrant heart of New Orleans’ French Quarter, Hotel Provincial offers a charming escape for those seeking convenience. This may not be the flashiest hotel in town, but its prime location and historic ambiance make it a solid choice. Staying here allowed us to be only steps away from iconic landmarks like St Louis Cathedral and the bustling French Market. With everything at our fingertips, we were able to soak up the neighborhood’s atmosphere without needing much legwork. There are countless restaurants and cafes nearby, but our favorite was the on-site French Toast. It serves classic New Orleans fare to appease your post-adventure hunger.
Despite being a cheap hotel in the French Quarter, New Orleans, the amenities here are fantastic. The hotel boasts two swimming pools, a chic bar, as well as a tropical courtyard. The rooms, while not the biggest, offer a comfortable retreat. From the plush bedding to the refrigerator, we had everything we needed for a restful stay. But if you want to test your adrenaline, Building #5 is believed to be haunted, so why don’t you book a room there?
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Hotel Peter and Paul
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Tucked away from all the noises but still within easy reach of New Orleans’ main attractions, Hotel Peter and Paul offers a unique blend of tranquility and history. Among all of the 4 star hotels in French Quarter, this is one of the most unique as it’s a former historic church and school complex. When we visited the hotel, the original signs of the church and school were still there. More than a hotel, this is the place for travelers to linger and be part of the community. If we weren’t sipping a cocktail in the chic bar, we would be soaking up the sun on the terrace or having a conversation in the shared lounge.
Throughout our stay, the service was also immaculate. The helpful staff would tailor tours to our interests, ensuring we experience the best of New Orleans’ magic. But the heart of this hotel is its guestrooms. No two rooms are alike, and each tells a different story with a distinct personality. Some rooms even whisper their past lives in exposed brick walls and stained-glass windows. No matter which room you choose, you’ll always be reminded of the hotel’s fascinating journey.
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Maison de la Luz
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Best Design. When we first stepped into Maison de la Luz, we were whisked away to a world of elegant mystery. This luxury hotel in French Quarter New Orleans has to be the coolest one in the area. The hotel’s design is like a love letter to eclectic sophistication. From the bold wallpaper that clashes with antique furnishings to the vintage treasures that mingle with modern art, every corner of this hotel will feast your eyes and senses. It didn’t matter whether we were in the lobby, lounge, or bar, as we would always have our phone with us, busy taking pictures as everything was begging to be Instagrammed!
The hotel is only a short walk away from Lafayette Square and McDonogh Monument. However, we couldn’t help but want to return to the hotel ASAP when we were exploring the city. That was because the hotel was that enchanting. After a day of exploring, we’d unwind at the cozy bar. It’s where you can enjoy craft cocktails that tantalize your taste buds. Once we were done drinking, the King Room would welcome us back with open arms. Every single room on the property is also elegantly decorated and immaculately clean. And after a good night’s sleep, Blue Room was where we would be at. The breakfast here is no ordinary affair, with a dizzying array of delectable options to help you kick off your day.
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One11 Hotel
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Best Luxury. Our number one favorite hotel on this list is none other than the One11 Hotel, seen by many as the most luxurious hotel in French Quarter New Orleans. It first operated in late 2020, and despite being newer than most hotels in the area, it has skyrocketed to be one of the top hotels in New Orleans. Set in a building dating back to 1884, the hotel still features the original architecture. When we first arrived, we saw that the attractive iron columns and exposed brick walls were still there. Despite that, the hotel has tons of modern amenities. Being on the plane for hours was tiring. Luckily, the outdoor swimming pool was there to soothe our bodies and keep us relaxed. When the weather is cold, you can warm up by the fire pit.
While tons of eateries are sprinkled around the hotel, you don’t need to go out for a leisurely lunch or dinner. The on-site Batture Bistro + Bar is a must-visit. We enjoyed the Belgian waffles. Moreover, the hotel boasts 83 contemporary and sophisticated rooms. With a plush bed, premium toiletries, and city views, our stay was made enjoyable. And if you’re celebrating something special, we think the fabulous suite is worth the splurge. It’s huge and one of the reasons why it’s named one of the best family hotels in New Orleans.
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Our Verdict!
From boutique hotels with unique decorations to ones with endless stories, the hotels above promise you a fantastic stay. However, we have to admit that some shine brighter than the rest, specifically in the following criteria:
- Best Luxury: One11 Hotel
- Best Design: Maison de la Luz
- Most Haunted: Hotel Provincial
- Best Rooftop Amenities: Ace Hotel New Orleans
Where to Stay in French Quarter, New Orleans
Choosing where to stay in the French Quarter heavily depends on your travel priorities and preferences. For instance, if you want to stay in the heart of the French Quarter, you’ll want to be somewhere near Bourbon Street. After all, visiting Bourbon Street is one of the top things to do in New Orleans, so you might as well stay here. It lets you immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife, music, and even street performers. Just be prepared for crowds and the party atmosphere!
If you want to enjoy beautiful architecture and iconic sights like St. Louis Cathedral, you’ll want to stay near Jackson Square and Royal Street. This area tends to be slightly quieter than Bourbon Street but still bustling. Additionally, there’s Frenchmen Street. It’s the place to be to experience a more local, laid-back nightlife scene. Here, you can expect excellent live music clubs and less rowdiness than Bourbon Street.
Another area that you may want to consider is the Lower French Quarter. Located closer to Esplanade Avenue, this place has calmer streets, charming courtyards, and antique shops. Don’t worry, as it’s still within easy walking distance of the main attractions.
Is it better to stay in the French Quarter in New Orleans?
It depends on your preferences. That said, the French Quarter is arguably the city’s most popular neighborhood. Most of the French QUarter’s main sights are within walking distance, and it’s also the most vibrant part of the city. Not to mention, it’s a haven for foodies, with everything from Creole cuisine to fresh seafood.
Can you walk around the French Quarter in New Orleans?
Definitely! As we said earlier, it’s a very pedestrian-friendly neighborhood. It’s only about 0.3 square miles, so it’s easy to get around on foot. Plus, the major attractions like Bourbon Street and the French Market are all within walking distance of each other.
What is the most famous street in the French Quarter New Orleans?
It’s none other than Bourbon Street! It’s the embodiment of the city’s party scene. At night, the street will be glowing with neon lights and you’ll hear music from left and right.
