New Orleans travel guide
Jazz, Creole food, Mardi Gras energy 365 days a year.
Where to stay in New Orleans
New Orleans breaks down into a handful of distinct neighborhoods. Pick by vibe, then narrow to the right property type.
- French Quarter
Iron balconies, Bourbon Street.
- Marigny
Frenchmen Street jazz.
- Garden District
Mansions, oak-lined streets.
- Bywater
Colorful shotgun homes, artsy.
- Uptown
Streetcar, Audubon Park.
- Tremé
Historic jazz birthplace.
How long to stay
3 nights for a weekend taste. 5 nights to see neighborhoods beyond downtown. 7+ for the full experience plus a day trip.
Frequently asked questions
- When is the best time to visit New Orleans?
- Shoulder seasons (April–May and September–October) get the best weather-to-price ratio. Major events spike rates 2–4×.
- Where should I stay in New Orleans for the first time?
- Walkable, transit-friendly neighborhoods. We've broken New Orleans into neighborhood guides — start with the most central one.
- Is a vacation rental better than a hotel in New Orleans?
- For 3+ travelers or stays of 3+ nights, almost always yes — bigger space, kitchen, and laundry at a lower per-person price.
- How do I avoid tourist traps?
- Skip anything on the main strip with a host hawking outside. Eat where the locals eat — your StayFlow host will tell you where.