The 20 best hotels in New Orleans, for a trip of a lifetime

After a long day (and most likely night) spent taking in all that New Orleans has to offer, there’s a good chance you’ll want to retire to a hotel that’s luxurious and comfortable. Those two words are perfect ways to describe the 316-room Windsor Court hotel, a destination that combines modern sophistication and old-world elegance, with a uniquely British bent.

Time Out tip: Ask for a higher room with a view of the Mississippi River, if possible. Watching the sun rise over the Mississippi is a one-of-a-kind, only-in-New-Orleans memorable experience that firmly plants this posh escape in the world-renowned city that surrounds it.

Hotel Peter & Paul is a sophisticated hotel in a fascinating, historic space. In the 19th century, the building used to house a schoolhouse, rectory, church and convent. (Don’t worry, the nuns have long since left.) With 71 rooms spread out across the property, each room is unique. I stayed in a convent room with a fireplace and working clawfoot tub. Instead of ignoring the hotel's religious origins, the decor acknowledges it in a fresh, exciting way. The four post beds are draped in rich canopy fabric, and each post is topped with small crosses. This rich gothic styling clashes intentionally with the quaint country vibe of the furniture in a way that feels uniquely New Orleans.

Time Out tip: Looking for a sweet treat nearby? Head to the Orange Couch for coffee and cake.

Located in the French Quarter, this hotel offers some of the best views of Jackson Square and the St. Louis Cathedral. Following the sinuous steps upward, guests will discover the history-laden Orleans Ballroom, which was the scene of masquerades and political movements alike in the 1800s. While the building is of a bygone era, the amenities are modern. In addition, the hotel pool deck offers a cool reprieve from the rowdiness and heat of the city.

Time Out tip: Be sure to ask reception about the live jazz nights at Bourbon O, the hotel's bar.

If you're after something a little more accommodating than a single hotel room, how about an apartment? Roami at Factors Row, situated just outside the heart of New Orleans, boasts luxury apartments, perfect for guests needing somewhere for a longer stay. Each apartment features a flat-screen TV and seating area, plus a kitchen with a dishwasher, coffee machine, stovetop, and oven – just like at home, it'll be like you never left. As a guest, you'll have full access to the communal courtyard, a piano room, and a fully equipped gym. 

Time Out tip: Spend the morning soaking up the sun on the terrace. It's dreamy.

The Mercantile Hotel sits in the center of New Orleans in the New Orleans Central Arts Warehouse District – a super trendy neighborhood perfect for anyone exploring the city for the first time. The hotel has a range of suites, ranging from a double-bed suite to a two-queen-bed suite, as well as an accessible queen-bed suite with an ADA shower. Each suite features exposed brick walls for an urban and industrial vibe, and separate living/sleeping areas to make you feel more comfortable.

Time Out tip: Some rooms come with river or city views – just be lucky enough to nab one in time.

There are few things more charming than an exceptionally old building that’s been done with a ton of care and attention. And that’s exactly what you get with The Chloe – a Victorian-era mansion on St. Charles Avenue renovated by a group of design- and conservation-concerned locals. Each of the 14 guest rooms here is decked out with exquisite touches, from local art to soaking tubs, while the front porch is the gorgeous place from which to sit back, relax, and watch the streetcars rattle by.

Time Out tip: Try out the pork and shrimp etouffee dumplings – they're even better than they sound!

New Orleans’ edition of the famously-lux Ritz-Carlton brand can hold a candle to any of the chain’s finest establishments, anywhere in the world. In an early twentieth-century building that once housed the Beaux Arts Maison Blanche department store – and behind a glorious historic façade – the Ritz has everything from Italian marble bathtubs to its own enormous spa and fitness center. The hotel itself is on Canal Street, a stone’s throw from the French Quarter and a short streetcar ride from the Garden District.

Time Out tip: Need a little R&R? Head to the hotel's destination spa with over 100 treatments on offer.

The Roosevelt’s lobby is a destination in and of itself – glistening brass elevators, mosaic floors and dazzling chandeliers. At Christmas time, many come to enjoy the tree-lined hallway and cascading lights. Celebrities like Sonny and Cher, Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland and Marilyn Monroe have enjoyed the locale. But the most infamous fan of the hotel was local politician, Huey P. Long, who loved it so much he had a personal suite here. The hotel houses the city’s famous Sazerac Bar, which moved there in 1949.

Time Out tip: Head to the rooftop bar for a sundowner cocktail in style.

This upscale hotel in the French Quarter opened in 1886 under the direction of Sicilian nobleman, Antonio Monteleone. What started as a 64-room hotel has grown into more than 500 rooms, and the business has remained in the family since its inception. Hotel Monteleone is perhaps most known for its revolving Carousel Bar which slowly spins around as patrons swish their glasses and swivel in their seats. Beloved by acclaimed writers like Ernest Hemingway, Tennessee Williams, William Faulkner, Anne Rice and Truman Capote, the Hotel Monteleone is not to be missed – even for those not booking one of its opulent rooms.

Time Out tip: Need a quick workout? Head on down to the hotel's self-proclaimed 'state-of-the-art' fitness center.

Looking to take a breather in a quieter and less touristy part of town, but also want to stay somewhere a little on the swanky side? Well, the Pontchartrain Hotel on St. Charles Avenue is the hotel for you. Combining classic ornate styles with sleek modern fittings, the Pontchartrain also boasts a fabulous rooftop bar – with panoramic views over downtown – its own cute breakfast café and a dazzling restaurant. As for attractions, it’s probably closest to the World War Two museum.

Time Out tip: Start your day right with a delicious buffet breakfast enjoyed in the hotel's Whistle Café.

For those wanting to be right in the thick of Bourbon Street nightlife, look no further than the Royal Sonesta. The structure is quintessential French Quarter architecture, with a wrought-iron balcony that wraps around the corner of the seven-story building. On the third floor is the Oasis Courtyard and pool, which overlooks the first-floor courtyard. Along with Bourbon Street’s many delights, guests can enjoy music at the Jazz Playhouse, seafood at the Desire Oyster Bar or a more lavish meal at Restaurant R'evolution.

Time Out tip: Catching the football later? Look no further than the whiskey/sports bar aptly named Le Booze.

During the renovation of the W in NOLA's French Quarter, designers sought to blend the brand’s signature chic, clean style with the city’s sauntering, inimitable panache. The outcome is seriously impressive. A theme of 'rhythm and shadow' manages to bring out New Orleans’ musical history and mystical aura, making this an especially colorful, contemporary, characterful W hotel indeed. Needless to say, this one, being right in the middle of the French Quarter, also comes with a pretty unbeatable location.

Time Out tip: Fine wine and dine yourself on-site at Sobou.

Located on Magazine Street in the Lower Garden District, the Hotel Saint Vincent occupies an 1861 building that was formerly The Saint Vincent’s Infant Asylum. The imposing brick building is now a hip, must-visit destination packed with modern design touches in each of its 75 rooms. The public spaces include a lush courtyard, outdoor verandas, a pool, a lifestyle boutique, signature bars, and two full-service restaurants. With so many places to explore (and snap pics) in the hotel, you may never want to leave.

Time Out tip: Sight-see the historic Lower Garden District on foot – it's the best way to explore.

With stately columns gracing the entrance, glitzy chandeliers illuminating the lobby, an ornate flair to the rooms, and that whimsical nightly ritual of sharing complimentary PB and J sandwiches, Le Pavillon is a spot Marie Antoinette would approve of. Those looking for a next-level experience should book one of the themed suites, each taking extravagance to a singular level.

Time Out tip: Car lover? Visit the Mercedes-Benz Superdome which is an easy 13-minute walk away.

This stylish hotel in a renovated 1908 building in the city’s central business district (CBD) is a sister property to the Ace Hotel. The ornately designed rooms and suites boast towering ceilings and thoughtfully-curated amenities. The hotel’s cocktail lounge, Bar Marilou, draws crowds for its inventive cocktails, but you’ll enjoy an exclusive entrance as a guest. The Living Room, another guest-only space, offers nightly wine and cheese service.

Time Out tip: The airport is only 16 miles away – making it an easy place to rest your head on arrival. 

As a property of The National WWII Museum, the Higgins Hotel is an ideal base for visitors in town to explore the award-winning Museum, but it’s in a prime location for exploring the whole city too. Located in the Warehouse District, the hotel offers easy access to the French Quarter and is a short ride on the streetcar to explore Uptown neighborhoods. The hotel features elegant decor with WWII-era touches that extend to the on-site dining options. Rosie’s on the Roof, a bar and cafe honoring the beloved icon Rosie the Riveter, has one of the best rooftop views in the city. 

Time Out tip: History buff? You'll love supporting the Higgins as the proceeds are generated to help support the ongoing educational mission of the Museum.

In the heart of the CBD, this 202-room boutique hotel is in a prime location just close enough to walk to the French Quarter but far enough away to escape the hubbub and relax. Throughout the hotel and in the sophisticated rooms, you’ll find stunning custom art that pays homage to the history and musical legacy of the city. The two dining and cocktail concepts on-site, Peacock Room and Gospel Coffee and Boozy Treats, both offer twists on traditional favorites. 

Time Out tip: Be sure to check out the evening social hour, a Kimpton standard, before heading out for the night.

Deluxe amenities meet total convenience at the Omni Royal Orleans. The hotel sits next to several of New Orleans’ most iconic attractions, including Jackson Square, Bourbon Street, and the Mississippi River, to name a few. If that's not enough, it’s also lavishly decorated and boasts a stunning rooftop pool.

Time Out tip: Visitors love this hotel for its central location – so if you love being in the thick of it, the Omni Royal is for you.

A boutique hotel located in the heart of the French Quarter, this setting is perfect for someone looking for that old-world 'Vieux Carré' charm. Its lobby welcomes guests, then extends into the idyllic courtyard, and up the stairs to open-air hallways that lead to cozy bedrooms. For an added view, choose a room with a balcony that looks down onto Bourbon Street.

Time Out tip: Order a mean craft cocktail at the hotel's on-site bar, 21st Amendment Bar at La Louisiane.

Swanky just begins to describe the new Ace Hotel in New Orleans’ Warehouse District. Design firm Roman & William went with a Dadaist, Art Deco style for the decor, adorning the lobby with found objects, moody dark tones of greys, greens, and mauve, and the original terrazzo floors that recall the building’s origins as a furniture warehouse. Enjoy onsite entertainment in the Three Keys Music Venue, libations and a dip in the pool in the Alto Rooftop bar and bites in the Josephine Estelle restaurant.

Time Out tip: Heavy head come morning? Visit Stumptown Coffee Roasters to wake up sharp.