Hotel or Vacation Rental in New Orleans? Here’s How to Choose

Where you stay on vacation can make a huge difference — and in a vibrant city like New Orleans, there’s no shortage of options. So how do you choose?

One of the first decisions to make is whether to book a hotel or a vacation rental for your stay in New Orleans. And while it might not surprise you that we’re big fans of vacation rentals (especially in a city packed with personality like NOLA), there are valid reasons to consider both, depending on the kind of trip you’re planning and what matters most to you.

In this guide, we’ll break down when a hotel might make sense and why vacation rentals offer a truly unforgettable way to experience New Orleans — plus how our properties give you the best of both worlds.

When is a hotel right for your trip to New Orleans?

Hotels are often the go-to for travelers who value brand loyalty, daily housekeeping, concierge services, or a central location. And for some trips — like solo travel, quick overnight stays, or business visits — they can be a perfectly practical choice.

That said, hotels can sometimes feel a little… generic. A standard hotel room often lacks the personality and character that make NOLA so special. Plus, they can feel crowded, especially during festivals or peak season.

The good news? Many of the perks you’d expect from a hotel — like professional hospitality, concierge-style support, and convenient locations — are also available when you stay with a vacation rental brand that prioritizes guest experience (like Book NOLA).

What are the perks of a vacation rental in New Orleans?

Unless you’re traveling solo or just staying for a quick overnight, vacation rentals offer an unbeatable way to experience New Orleans, especially if you’re with a group, traveling with family, or planning a longer stay.

Instead of squeezing into a single hotel room, you can spread out in a full home or apartment with multiple bedrooms, private bathrooms, living areas, a fully equipped kitchen, and even outdoor space. It’s more comfortable, more private, and gives you the flexibility to truly settle in.

Plus, staying in a vacation rental gives you the chance to experience NOLA more like a local. After all, locals aren’t staying in hotels. They’re living in charming neighborhoods filled with character, culture, and hidden gems. When you stay in a cozy home tucked into one of these areas, you get a more authentic feel for what makes this city so special.

Let’s Address Some Common Concerns

We get it. When it comes to vacation rentals, some travelers hesitate because they’re worried about inconsistent quality, hard-to-reach hosts, or a lack of hospitality.

And honestly, those concerns are valid. Not every host goes the extra mile, just like not every hotel guarantees a great experience. That’s why choosing the right vacation rental company makes all the difference.

Instead of booking a random listing on Airbnb and hoping for the best, look for a professionally managed, hospitality-focused company that prioritizes guest experience. With the right partner, you’ll get consistent quality, reliable service, and local support when you need it.

And in New Orleans, that’s exactly what we do at Book NOLA.

Get the Best of Both Worlds with Book NOLA

When you stay with Book NOLA, you get the space, charm, and comfort of a vacation rental plus the perks of a professionally managed hotel stay. Here’s what sets us apart:

Professionally cleaned and maintained homes

Each of our properties is thoroughly cleaned and inspected before your arrival. We hold our cleaning teams to high standards, so you can count on a spotless, well-kept space every time you stay. We also provide all linens and towels and use scent-free and hypoallergenic laundry products.

24/7 local guest support

Whether you have a question about check-in, need a dinner recommendation, or run into an issue during your stay, our local team is just a call or text away, day or night. While other hosts might not be local, we’re based right here in New Orleans and always ready to help.

Concierge services and local recommendations

Want help booking a swamp tour, dinner reservation, or airport transfer? We’ve got you covered. Our optional concierge services are designed to make your stay easy and enjoyable, with personalized recommendations to help you experience the best of NOLA. Plus, we provide a custom digital guidebook for all of our guests with the best local recommendations.

Unique, handpicked properties in the city’s best neighborhoods

We don’t do cookie-cutter. Each of our homes is carefully selected for its charm, comfort, and location — whether you want to be close to the action in the French Quarter or tucked into a quiet, local neighborhood like the Garden District or Mid-City.

With Book NOLA, you’ll enjoy a local experience with all the comfort and confidence of staying with a trusted hospitality team.

Stay Like a Local

When you choose a vacation rental, you get more space, more personality, and the chance to truly experience New Orleans like a local, without sacrificing comfort or service. With hotel-style perks and authentic neighborhood vibes, it’s the best of both worlds.

Still deciding or have questions about where to stay? Our local team is here to help every step of the way. Reach out anytime — we’d love to help you plan your perfect New Orleans getaway!