HI New Orleans

Imagine landing in a place with Spanish architecture, where jazz music is played on every street corner and you can eat as much creole food as you can handle. With its rich cultural heritage, New Orleans, the largest city of Louisiana, looks like no other city in the US, which is exactly what makes it so appealing as a backpacking destination. Throw in the festive atmosphere for Mardi Gras and numerous festivals throughout the year and you’re in for a very entertaining holiday!

Our New Orleans hostels are all situated north of the Mississippi River, in the heart of the city. If you don’t want to break the bank for accommodation, note that most of the hostels in New Orleans are cheap and include breakfast. The best hostels in New Orleans also offer nightly social events. If you’re in New Orleans for the carnival spirit, look out for the hostel with nightly parties and drinking games in the garden. For insider tips, check whether your hostel offers free walking tours led by an expert local!

Book a New Orleans hostel in the French Quarter if you want to stay in the most famous neighbourhood in the city. Live jazz, colourful buildings, Cajun restaurants and completely wild nightlife are what you should expect here. Opt for the Garden District if you like elegant surroundings and want to try some of the finest restaurants in Nola, plus a fantastic selection of youth hostels. Treme, the city’s oldest African American neighbourhood, is known for its soulful vibe and incredible museums.

The famous French Quarter is a must-see – especially during Mardi Gras – and Preservation Hall is one of the best and most iconic music venues in the world. For more music venues, go to Frenchmen street in the Faubourg Marigny. In need of more adventure? How about kayaking with alligators?

Renting a car is a good option to visit New Orleans and Louisiana at you pace. However, note that parking can be a bit expensive and that free parking spaces are sometimes hard to find. If you stay right in the city centre, walking and streetcars are the most typical public transport of New Orleans.