New Orleans is a compact city built on a bend of the Mississippi River, with an architecture, food and music heritage found nowhere else in the US. Hostels here are few, so book ahead, especially around major festivals when beds disappear quickly.
Our top pick: New Orleans: Sightseeing Bus Tour
Where hostels are
- Central Business District (CBD) and Warehouse District: a good walking base, with the St. Charles streetcar and many museums nearby.
- Edges of the French Quarter: close to Jackson Square and the riverfront. Rooms are in older buildings, so check the reviews for noise.
- Mid-City: along the Canal Street streetcar, quieter and more residential, near City Park.
- Marigny and Bywater: colorful neighborhoods just downriver, popular with creative travelers.
Getting in from the airport
The airport lies about 15 miles (24 km) west of downtown. Shuttles, taxis and rideshares take roughly 25 to 40 minutes depending on traffic, and a public bus connects the airport with the city for a lower fare.
Safety and budget tips
The French Quarter and CBD are busy through the day, but take a taxi or rideshare rather than walking long distances after dark, stay on well-lit streets, and keep phones and bags close. Summer is hot and humid, so confirm the dorm has working air conditioning. To save money, book early for festival weekends, choose a hostel with a kitchen, and buy a streetcar pass for the day instead of paying per trip.
Check hostel prices in New Orleans
Streetcars are cheap and scenic. The St. Charles line passes the Garden District’s mansions and oak trees for a fraction of the cost of a tour.
Top-rated New Orleans tours
New Orleans: Sightseeing Bus Tour
A good overview of the city. 4.8/5 from over 1,600 reviews.
City Sightseeing New Orleans HOHO Bus Tour
Hop on and off at the main sights. 4.5/5 from over 1,200 reviews.
New Orleans: 20,000-Acre Swamp Tour by Covered Pontoon Boat
Bayou wildlife in comfort. 4.6/5 from nearly 500 reviews.
Why book online
- Free cancellation on most tickets, usually up to 24 hours before
- Reserved time slot: no queue at the ticket desk
- Mobile ticket on your phone
- Reviews from verified travelers
Frequently asked questions
Where should I look for a hostel in New Orleans?
The Central Business District and the edges of the French Quarter are the most convenient, with Mid-City and the Marigny as quieter alternatives. Check recent reviews for the street, as blocks can differ a lot.
How do I get from the airport to a hostel?
The airport, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International, is about 15 miles (24 km) from downtown. Shuttles, taxis and rideshares are the usual choice, and a local bus also runs to the city.
Some links are affiliate links: if you book through them we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It funds the research behind this site.
