New Orleans is one of America’s most electrifying, vibrant, and diverse cities. Lovingly referred to as The Big Easy, The Crescent City, and just NOLA, every corner of the city seems full of friendly people, amazing food, buzzing live music, and beautiful architecture. There are so many things to do in New Orleans besides Bourbon Street that you’ll want to return year after year!
This city is truly unique and unlike anywhere else in the world. It’s the only city in the US where you can grab a to-go cup, eat some King Cake, and watch one of the dozens of different jubilant Second-Line parades put on throughout the year.
Read on to discover the top 10 things to do in NOLA and the 7 most incredible Airbnbs in New Orleans, one of our favorite cities in the United States!
Short on time and don’t want to read the whole article? Check out our top 3 picks:
- Historic Carriage House with Saltwater Pool
- Romantic 1-Bedroom Studio Full of History & Character
- Quaint, Lovingly-restored Creole Home near Frenchmen Street
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Top 10 things to do in New Orleans
- Visit the Jazz Museum to learn about jazz, the musical genre that began in New Orleans.
- Have a drink at the Carousel Bar, a bar with a real moving carousel for a circus-like drinking experience. Sit at the bar as it slowly revolves.
- Go shopping on Magazine Street which is dotted with dozens of fantastic places to shop, eat, and drink
- Explore Saint Roch Chapel to see the shrine where devout believers leave offerings to grant them good health and healing.
- Try the fried shrimp po-boy at Liuzza’s by the Track, a local favorite eatery that is famous for its sandwiches
- Take pictures at JAMNOLA, an interactive art attraction that explores the culture that makes the Crescent City special.
- Learn about the customs and costumes of NOLA at the Backstreet Cultural Museum. It’s a great way to learn about this history of New Orleans and to see authentic Mardi Gras costumes in all their glory.
- Take a stroll through the Besthoff Sculpture Garden, a gorgeous outdoor space in City Park adjacent to the New Orleans Museum of Art.
- Learn how to cook classic Cajun dishes like gumbo at the Southern Food and Beverage Museum.
- Have a drink with a ghost at Muriel’s Jackson Square. This cajun restaurant is famous for its rich interior and delicious food but it’s also known for its hidden séance room. The staff reserves a table for its previous owner, who is said to visit in spirit.
Why Stay in an Airbnb in New Orleans
There are lots of advantages to staying in an Airbnb in New Orleans. In general, Airbnbs are cheaper than staying in a hotel, especially if you’re traveling to NOLA as a large group. The more people you can split the cost with, the more activities you can splurge on during your stay. Plus, Airbnbs are more spacious with more amenities like stocked kitchens and backyards to enjoy.
The second reason to stay in an Airbnb is that you will get a more authentic New Orleans experience by staying in a local neighborhood outside of the French Quarter. The Garden District, Irish Channel, the Marigny, and the Bywater are all fantastic New Orleans neighborhoods full of unique bars, local restaurants, and homes full of character.
Whether you’re planning a memorable family holiday, a romantic getaway, or an action-packed weekend with friends, there’s no doubt that you will find a unique Airbnb in New Orleans that is perfect for you. From chic studios to adorable Creole cottages and luxurious Antebellum mansions, the options are plentiful.
Finding the perfect vacation home can be overwhelming, so we have picked out 7 of the best Airbnbs in NOLA to make your decision just a little bit easier. There’s so much to see, do, eat and drink in Big Easy, so we’ve also come up with the top 10 attractions to help narrow down your itinerary!
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The 7 Best Airbnbs in New Orleans
Best New Orleans Airbnbs for Couples and Solo Travelers
1. Affordable Colorful Creole Cottage in the Bywater
With its lime green siding and turquoise shutters, you can’t miss this eye-catching creole cottage in the Bywater District! The interior is just as vibrant as it is decorated with bright pops of color, modern furniture, and original art for authentic New Orleans flair.
Sit in the rocking chairs underneath the pergola in the courtyard or spend evenings sipping drinks in the backyard around the fire pit. You can also make yourself at home on the plush couch and relax into your evening with the local beers and snacks provided by the host to help you settle in!
This bright 1-bedroom apartment is a nice blend of historic detail, like the exposed brick fireplaces, and modern conveniences to keep you comfortable.
This quaint guest house is situated in the Bywater Historic District, an artsy neighborhood known for its striking architecture. The Crescent Park Trail along the river is two blocks away and will take you straight to the French Quarter.
2. Historic Carriage House with Saltwater Pool
This cute little apartment is located near Audubon Park, just minutes from downtown New Orleans. Stylishly decorated and cozy, this historic carriage house has lots of natural light plus a lovely patio and saltwater pool – perfect for enjoying an afternoon cocktail.
This Uptown New Orleans Airbnb has a full-size kitchen but it’s unlikely you’ll need it. You’ll be just a block away from the St. Charles Avenue streetcar line where you’ll have access to dozens of great bars and restaurants.
Built over 100 years ago, this carriage house is newly refurbished but still retains period details, creating a welcoming retreat for visitors. A spacious bedroom and bath are found on the second level and the well-thought-out living space includes a half bath and kitchen on the ground floor.
Large windows overlook the back patio area which is drenched in Southern charm and shaded by lemon trees. This patio is absolutely perfect for relaxing! Take a dip in the fountain-lined pool or settle in one of the sun loungers. The hosts also include two bikes you can borrow to explore the area.
3. Stunning Shotgun House near the French Quarter
Nestled in the heart of the Bywater, this stylish Victorian cottage embodies authentic New Orleans charm. From the high ceilings to the beautiful antique touches, this New Orleans vacation rental is perfect for a fun or romantic getaway. This home is contemporary, with a well-appointed kitchen and bath, but retains its overall vintage features and character.
People-watch on the large 30-foot porch and enjoy the sun, fresh air, and friendly passersby! Inside there are huge, gorgeous sliding French doors that separate the kitchen and living room. The kitchen has a large marble island, a custom bar cart, and luxury amenities for dining in.
This home will definitely be one of the highlights of your trip – it’s in one of NOLA’s most sought-after neighborhoods. Bywater is a truly authentic New Orleans neighborhood and home to many bars and restaurants. It provides a respite from the busy French Quarter, which is less than a mile away when you are ready to join the party!
4. Romantic 1-Bedroom Studio Full of History & Character
This New Orleans Airbnb was originally a music parlor in the 19th century and has been beautifully restored into a sophisticated studio apartment. It’s a bit smaller than the other vacation rentals we recommend, but it’s also more affordable. Hardly a sacrifice, as this New Orleans Airbnb is elegantly decorated and full of natural light. It’s the perfect Airbnb for a couple or solo traveler that’s on a budget but doesn’t want to skimp on style.
This bright, airy studio has hardwood floors, high ceilings, and oversized mirrors, making it feel spacious and roomy. You’ll find unique touches throughout the home like extravagant chandeliers and vintage lamps. The space feels glamorous due to the velvety pink couch, soft color palette, and contemporary furnishings.
You’ll also have private access to the front porch that is furnished with modern chairs and overlooks a beautiful tropical garden. If you want to cook, the studio also comes complete with a fully-equipped kitchen for all your meals.
It’s located in the residential Mid-City neighborhood near City Park and the Botanical Gardens. The French Quarter is just 10 minutes away by streetcar or rideshare.
Best New Orleans Airbnbs for Small Groups and Families
5. Maison Laharpe: Chic NOLA Cottage in Tremé
You will love coming home to this stylish 2-bedroom quintessential Creole cottage. Maison Laharpe is one half of a classic New Orleans shotgun house built in the late 1800s. You’ll love the historic features of this cozy little NOLA Airbnb like the high ceilings and flagstone flooring. You’ll also have a backyard and patio area that is perfect for sipping your morning coffee and preparing for your day.
Located in an authentic neighborhood called Tremé, you’ll be just outside of the typical tourist spots like Bourbon Street, but close enough to walk to the French Quarter when needed.
The lovely and cozy design of this Airbnb will surely elevate your New Orleans vacation. The white interior is offset with color splashes, from carpets to wall accents, giving this home a light and bright atmosphere.
Plus, the Maison Laharpe is perfect for budget-conscious groups since it’s priced at such an affordable rate.
6. Quaint, Lovingly-restored Creole Home near Frenchmen Street
For groups looking for a unique Airbnb near the French Quarter, you’ll definitely want to book a few nights at this authentic NOLA home. This historic 3-bedroom home is over 200 years old and retains much of its original character. Plus, it’s one of just a few properties in the city with a gorgeous saltwater pool and spa.
The home displays historic touches throughout, from the reproduction wallpaper to the original tongue and groove ceilings from the early 1800s. Each room is impressive and decorated with antiques, historic oil paintings, and vintage furniture.
A huge sunroom overlooks the large, paved backyard, which is the perfect setting for hosting elegant dinners and get-togethers. The poolside is an ideal area for a game of cards and cocktails in the evening.
Within walking distance of Frenchmen Street, the French Quarter, and the trolly lines, this charming Airbnb is one of the most sought-after locations. Book this Airbnb for a memorable and magical stay in New Orleans!
7. Contemporary 3-bedroom near the French Quarter
This sophisticated NOLA home fuses old-world charm with colorful and modern decor. Guests love this airy Victorian home for its high ceilings, french doors, and bright modern furniture. Oh, and the balcony is the perfect place to people-watch while enjoying a cocktail!
What really makes this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home stand out among the other New Orleans Airbnbs is its great location. Situated in the Marigny Triangle and surrounded by other vibrant historic homes, you’ll be just 3 blocks from the French Quarter and mere steps from local restaurants, bars, and coffee shops.
This spacious 2-story vacation rental would be ideal for groups as it offers plenty of space for privacy. The kitchen and dining room area is the real social hub of the home, with a marble-fitted island that’s an excellent spot for gathering and planning your day. There’s even a study area for anyone that needs to catch up on work, but who wants to work while vacationing in the Big Easy?
That’s it – 7 of the best Airbnbs in New Orleans! Do you have a favorite vacation rental in New Orleans? Let us know in the comments below.
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