Between beignets, second lines, and brightly painted shotgun houses, there’s really no city quite like N’awlins.
It’s also a great jumping-off point for those interested in exploring the gator-ridden swamps or majestic plantations in greater Louisiana. Whether you’re a history buff, a party animal, a foodie, or artistically inclined, New Orleans is a city you won’t want to miss.
From famous events like Jazz Fest to more local affairs like the Oak Street Po-Boy Festival, the Big Easy has over 130 annual festivals – that averages to a new festival every three days. Factor in that many of these festivals last several days, and you can see how the Birthplace of Jazz is essentially in constant celebration.
As the city’s citizens proved when they decorated their houses like parade floats despite Mardi Gras being cancelled, not even a global pandemic can dim the New Orleans spirit. With that kind of attitude and atmosphere, it’s nearly impossible to visit the Crescent City without remembering how good life truly is.
No matter your interests, you’ll be hard-pressed not to be enchanted by New Orleans and even harder pressed to visit only once. Here are some of the best airbnbs in New Orleans to temporarily call home on your first – or umpteenth – visit.
1. Remarkable Mid-City Dwelling
Why you should stay: A dark, rich apartment near some of the city’s best treasures.
- Neighborhood: Mid-City
- Sleeps: 6
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates from: $375/night
Built in 2019, this exquisite space is perfect for a luxurious getaway. Bask in the morning light coming in through the kitchen’s 12-foot-high sliding glass wall, then catch sunset from your private rooftop hot tub.
Head outside and pick a direction, any direction, to find some of the city’s hotspots Local restaurant favorites include Angelo Brocato, Katie’s, Parkway Bakery & Tavern, and Bayou Beer Garden. You can also walk a few blocks to hop on the streetcar and head to the French Quarter.
Within a mile, you’ve got the expansive City Park, which also houses the New Orleans Museum of Art. This is one of the best airbnbs in New Orleans if you’re coming for Jazzfest, since it’s held next to the museum every April.
Check AvailabilityRelated Read: 11 Easy Weekend Road Trips from New Orleans, Louisiana
2. Carriage House with Saltwater Pool
Why you should stay: Cozy stay in a turn-of-the-century building next to Audubon Park.
- Neighborhood: Uptown
- Sleeps: 3
- Minimum stay: 3 nights
- Rates from: $150/night
This carriage house is over 100 years old, though the owners recently refurbished with everything you need for a 21st-century stay. Keep in mind that more than two adults can become a tight fit, though the place can technically sleep three.
Located across the street from two major universities, this is a great option for anyone visiting students. If you can pull yourself away from the great courtyard area and shared saltwater pool, the streetcar to take you downtown is just a few blocks away. Places to explore in the neighborhood include Freret Street, Oak Street, and Maple Street, all of which have their unique charms.
Check AvailabilityRelated Read: What to See on an Awesome Houston to New Orleans Road Trip
3. Luxury Historic Creole Cottage
Why you should stay: Elegant home with some classic Creole touches.
- Neighborhood: Marigny
- Sleeps: 8
- Minimum stay: 3 nights
- Rates from: $520/night
Steeped in tradition, this creole cottage astounds with historical details, authentic antiques, and stunning decor that will transport you to another era while still providing plenty of modern comforts.
The location impresses as well. It’s just a short walk from the French Quarter and only a few blocks from the arguably more interesting Frenchman Street. This safe neighborhood begins to border on areas that are less so, so either know where you’re going or take a taxi or ride share if you’re traveling too far away from the home late at night.
Check AvailabilityRelated Read: 9 Free Things to Do in New Orleans, Louisiana
4. Expansive Southern Elegance
Why you should stay: Lounge in a spacious airbnb just four blocks from the French Quarter.
- Neighborhood: Tremé
- Sleeps: 6
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates from: $510/night
The clean lines of this Tremé home are made even brighter by the abundant natural light. But light sleepers, don’t fear: the home has room-darkening shades.
Explore the neighborhood’s offerings, including Treme’s Petit Jazz Museum and Louis Armstrong Park, or walk a few blocks into the French Quarter. This is one of the best airbnbs in New Orleans for an authentic experience. It’s a ton of fun, but use your head when you’re walking around late at night.
Check AvailabilityRelated Read: The Absolute Best Times to Visit New Orleans
5. Bohemian Loft
Why you should stay: Stay in a funky loft that reflects the soul of the city.
- Neighborhood: Garden District/Irish Channel
- Sleeps: 14
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates from: $315/night
If you’re looking for something with a little character, you won’t go wrong in this loft with exposed brick and a decorative stop light hanging over a pool table. This airbnb reflects the eclectic, colorful, vibrant feeling of New Orleans – it’s a fun place to be for a few days.
The location is ideal for foodies and shoppers. Hit Magazine Street, then close your eyes and point in any direction to find a place that will knock your socks off. This is one the city’s most fun neighborhoods. Expert tip: snag a unique souvenir at The Bulldog on “Pint Night” Wednesdays, when everyone gets to keep their glass.
Check Availability6. Creole Cottage Suite
Why you should stay: For that rare feeling of being home while simultaneously being on vacation.
- Neighborhood: Lower Garden District
- Sleeps: 2
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates from: $121/night
Nothing says cute and comfortable quite like the Creole Cottage suite, thanks to amenities like a king-sized bed, a plush couch, and colorful art. The front door locks with your own personal code and even furry friends are allowed if you message the owner in advance. It’s also one of the best-priced airbnbs in New Orleans.
Withdrawn enough from the city hubbub to offer a welcomed reprieve during your visit, this spot is still walking distance to Magazine Street and the strollable Garden District. A taxi ride downtown should cost no more than $10.
For nightlife, don’t forget to check out Tchoup Yard and Tipitina’s. Plan to recover the next morning at District Donuts Sliders Brew.
Check Availability7. Luxury Pool House
Why you should stay: Romantic hidden paradise with a saltwater pool near the French Quarter.
- Neighborhood: Tremé
- Sleeps: 2
- Minimum stay: 3 nights
- Rates from: $171/night
Come to the Tremé to get pampered in this elegant two-story pool house built in 2019.
Enjoy coffee or a cocktail on the bedroom balcony or explore the neighborhood; the cool Backstreet Cultural Museum is right around the corner. In addition to the Quarter, you’re also walking distance from Frenchman Street and the Rampart streetcar line. Sure, it’s one of the best airbnbs in New Orleans if you plan to stay out until 4 a.m., but it’s also great if you need privacy to recover the next day.
The courtyard and pathway to the pool house are thoughtfully lit at night so you can feel safe on your way home (or take a nighttime swim.)
Check Availability8. Downtown Urban Oasis
Why you should stay: An aesthetically astounding urban marvel with a private saltwater pool.
- Neighborhood: Central Business District (CBD)
- Sleeps: 10
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates from: $440/night
Be prepared to be blown away by this bright, open, and jaw-dropping space with 24/7 guest service via text, email, or phone. Even locals will be jealous of your incredibly rare find: a private garage for not one but two vehicles.
As far as the location, the home is triangulated by the Superdome, the National World War II Museum, and the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, making it ideal for sports fans, history buffs, and families. This neighborhood is also one of the art hot spots in town, with everything from private galleries to the Ogden Museum of Southern Art. It has a steep price tag, but it actually becomes one of the most affordable airbnbs in New Orleans if you divide the cost by 10.
Check Availability9. Southern Garden Escape
Why you should stay: Play bocce ball in this drool-worthy garden oasis in downtown New Orleans.
- Neighborhood: Marigny
- Sleeps: 10
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates from: $282/night
From the colorful walls and cheery interior decor to the envious backyard, this Southern Mansion is about as welcoming as they get. A great airbnb in New Orleans for families with amenities including a highchair and children’s books, it’s walking distance from Frenchman Street and the French Quarter. The home’s exterior space looks like a private resort complete with an outdoor bar and kitchen, fountain, and bocce ball court.
You might also consider exploring the nearby Bywater. Local recommendations include the St. Roch Market, The Country Club, Elizabeth’s, and Bacchanal Fine Wine & Spirits. The prices for this home vary wildly, so it’s best to have flexible travel dates if you’re set on staying here.
Check Availability10. Modern and Eclectic Upscale Home
Why you should stay: A chic option for long-term stays.
- Neighborhood: Tremé
- Sleeps: 20
- Minimum stay: 30 nights
- Rates from: $355/night ($13,360/month)
Guests will have this entire house all to themselves. Classically decorated to achieve an effortless and vaguely European vibe, you’ll be well taken care of here. It has everything you need for staying weeks on end like a washer and dryer, Wi-Fi and entertainment streaming services, and enough bedrooms that you can easily use one as a work-from-home space.
Like many cities, the neighborhood can be a little sketchy late at night. But during the day, do take the time to explore the neighborhood’s rich in history and culture. It’s a very tourist friendly area. With the proximity to the Quarter, Frenchman, and the Rampart streetcar line, many places are in walking distance or an inexpensive car ride away.
Check Availability11. Tropical Oasis
Why you should stay: For when you want to visit New Orleans but stay in Key West.
- Neighborhood: Mid-City
- Sleeps: 10
- Minimum stay: 3 nights
- Rates from: $429/night
Designed for everything from big get-togethers to remote working, this chic airbnb offers an outdoor living room, complete with palm trees, fountains flowing into the pool, in-pool loungers, HDTV, Wi-Fi and a grill. You’ll feel like you’re on a tropical getaway while lounging in the pool’s partially submerged chaises.
If you feel inclined to leave paradise, the French Quarter is only five minutes by Uber or Lyft and 12 minutes by way of the nearby streetcar. Before you leave the neighborhood, though, be sure to check out Bayou Beer Garden and Dooky Chase.
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Seen in: Louisiana, Southeast, Where to Stay
