Best Hotels near New Orleans Cruise Port

Visiting New Orleans before your cruise offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore one of the world’s most vibrant cities.

With delicious food, historic museums, family friendly attractions, world famous festivals, and of course Mardi Gras, the Crescent City delivers a vibrant setting to spend a day or more.

With plenty to see and do, spending a night or two is a great way to experience the culture and history of New Orleans and Louisiana.

Staying at a local hotel before your cruise also gives you a buffer in case of delays, especially when traveling to the port of departure from your home – whether you are flying, traveling by train or bus, or driving.

Cruise terminals are within a 5 to 15-minute walk of hotels near the Convention Center (Arts – Warehouse district) and properties in downtown New Orleans, or the Central Business District (CBD).

Free Shuttle to Port?

Some properties offer a free transfer to and from the cruise port. However Taxis from the French Quarter, Central Business District and Warehouse District hotels are not very expensive. Rates should be around $10 to $15. Uber and Lyft are also available to/from the port. A few hotels are also located within walking distance of the cruise terminal (no shuttle needed).

Port of New Orleans

New Orleans is home to 2 different cruise terminals.

• Erato Street Cruise Terminal – Carnival & Disney cruises
• Julia Street Cruise Terminal – Norwegian & Royal Caribbean cruises

Both terminals are located next to each other.

Who Sails from New Orleans?

New Orleans is a home port to numerous ships from lines including Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruises, Norwegian NCL and Disney Cruise Line.

Read also: New Orleans hotel deals

What are the Closest Hotels near Port of New Orleans? (FREE Shuttle)

Several hotels are located really close to New Orleans cruise terminal so you don’t need a shuttle or other transportation to the port. However the Hampton Inn & Suites Convention Center provide a free transfer service to and from the terminals. Read on below.

1. Hilton New Orleans Riverside ★★★★ (Walking Distance to Port)

The towering Hilton provides guests with wonderful views of the Mississippi River and the nearby cruise terminal. Inside, the lounges and dining areas are full of characteristic features such as curved ceilings with exposed wooden beams. Elegant lamps, colorful rugs and traditional upholstered armchairs create a relaxed, cozy atmosphere.

The comfortable guest rooms are particularly spacious and welcoming. The polished mahogany furniture and the deep colors of the decor add to the hotel’s warm, friendly tone. It’s one of the best places to stay for exploring the stores in the Riverwalk Marketplace.

You can walk from the hotel to Erato Cruise Terminal in about 15 minutes and Julia Street Cruise Terminal in 12 minutes.

Why Stay Here

• Walking distance from cruise port (2-3 blocks)
• Rooms with river view

2. Hampton Inn and Suites New Orleans Convention Center ★★★ (Free Shuttle)

This luxurious, multi-storey hotel is located directly opposite the New Orleans cruise terminal on the Mississippi River. The exterior of the hotel with rows of uniform windows highlights the building’s former role as a warehouse. The lounges are spacious and sumptuously decorated in warm colors such as burgundy and antique gold.

A free shuttle service is offered to and from the New Orleans cruise port.

Elaborate chandeliers, comfortable upholstered armchairs and paintings depicting local landmarks create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. The large, cozy rooms are tastefully furnished with elegant drapes, carpets and lamps. Within easy reach is the World War II Museum.

Why Stay Here

• Free continental breakfast
• Free shuttle to/from Cruise terminal

3. The Mercantile Hotel ★★★ (Great Value)

This popular boutique hotel is perfect for a pre-cruise vacation. Its interior has a contemporary design of exposed brickwork and ornate, cast iron pillars and archways. Colorful rugs, armchairs and artwork provide a warm, friendly atmosphere.

The rooms are particularly spacious and arranged with separate living accommodation for superior comfort and relaxation. The industrial theme continues in the bar and restaurant where rugged timber pillars and ceiling beams create a surprisingly sophisticated image.

Close by is the famous Harrah’s Casino and it takes around 15 minutes to walk to the cruise terminal.

Why Stay Here

• Nice, small quaint hotel
• Good value for money

4. SpringHill Suites by Marriott New Orleans Warehouse Arts District ★★★ (Close to Terminals)

Located a mile from the Mississippi River, but just a few minutes walk from the historic French Quarter, this sophisticated hotel has a contemporary, jazz inspired interior. The bell desk has layers of colorful illumination and there’s a bar with fringed tassels that evoke the fashions of the Roaring Twenties.

A modern art sculpture of intertwined trumpets pays tribute to New Orleans most famous son, Louis Armstrong. The rooms are comfortable, bright and spacious with separate seating areas. The rooftop bar provides unforgettable views of New Orleans.

You can reach both terminals on foot in approx. 15 to 25 minutes walk. A cab will cost you around $10.00.

Why Stay Here

• Good value for money
• Walking distance to restaurants and River walk

5. Hilton Garden Inn New Orleans Convention Center ★★★ (Opposite Cruise Parking)

Although a budget-friendly hotel, the Garden Inn has a captivating style that’s unique. The views from many of the rooms are striking, particularly when New Orleans and the cruise terminal are illuminated at night. The well-appointed rooms are individually presented with colorful artwork, bold drapes and comfortable beds. Dining areas and lounges throughout the hotel have many relaxing corners with armchairs and cozy fireplaces.

Outside there is a beautiful courtyard garden containing plants and a decorative fountain. Nearby is the elegant Spanish Plaza with stores, cafes and riverside views.

Fulton Parking across the street from the hotel offers cruise parking and free shuttle service to the port. Cost for parking from $15.50 per night.

Why Stay Here

• Budget friendly and not far from Port of New Orleans
• Little rooftop pool

6. Hyatt Place New Orleans Convention Center ★★★ (Walking Distance)

As one of the hotels located just a few minutes from the cruise port terminal, it is amongst the best places to stay for exploring the city prior to embarkation. The rooms have a minimalist decor, but the extensive use of wood panelling and furniture adds a warm, welcoming touch.

Each large, brightly lit room includes comfortable sofas and chairs for relaxation. The spacious, communal lounge has a high ceiling and features a distinctive upper balcony and balustrade. Spotlights, elegant drapes and modern art complete the hotel’s quietly sophisticated image.

Located only 12 minutes walk or a 3 mins car ride from the cruise port.

Why Stay Here

• Virtually right across the street from the cruise port
• Walking distance to CBD, French Quarter and St. Charles streetcar

Top Rated Hotels near New Orleans Cruise Port (when looking for the best)

1. Windsor Court Hotel ★★★★★ (Luxury)

This exclusive five-star hotel is luxurious throughout. The lounges are magnificent, with traditional furniture, ornate marble fireplaces, antique vases, clocks and beautiful works of art. With patterned carpets, potted palms and dark mahogany panelling, the hotel perfectly captures the romance of nineteenth century New Orleans.

The guest rooms are bright, spacious and tastefully presented with touches of French colonial splendor with Louis XVI style chairs and drapes. Many have views of the port. Outside there is a beautiful walled courtyard garden with seating and an elegant fountain. Nearby is the historic Lafayette Square. You can walk to both cruise terminals in about 20 minutes. A cab ride takes only 5 or 6 minutes.

Why Stay Here

• One of the best hotels near cruise terminals
• 5 star luxury hotel with outdoor pool

2. Higgins Hotel, Official Hotel of The National WWII Museum, Curio Collection by Hilton ★★★★ (Top)

Located a short distance from the port, this luxurious hotel is inspired by the Art Deco style of the 1930s. The entrance hall is truly spectacular with a decorative mural and a high vaulted ceiling fitted with an extraordinary pendant lamp.

In lounges and guest rooms, the floors, mirrors and walls have typical Art Deco gilt patterning and there are beautifully elegant drapes at the high windows. There is comfortable seating throughout. It is one of the best hotels for being within easy reach of many attractions and the cruise port (only 5 minutes by taxi or rideshare).

Why Stay Here

• One of the best hotels
• Rooftop restaurant with amazing views

3. Cambria Hotel New Orleans Downtown Warehouse District ★★★★

The Cambria is one of the best places to stay for being within a few minutes walk of the cruise port terminal and major attractions such as Bourbon Street, bars, casinos and the National World War II Museum.

The luxurious interior of the hotel is just as diverse with a startling blend of styles from industrial to French colonial. Lounges have exposed brickwork, red carpets and traditional armchairs printed with humorous skulls wearing crowns. Rooms are individually styled with a minimalist elegance combined with nineteenth century French salon furniture.

Either the Canal and St Charles Street car is 5 minutes walk away, while both cruise terminals are approx. 15 to 20 minutes walk from the hotel (5 to 6 mins by taxi).

Why Stay Here

• Boutique-style hotel with beautiful rooms
• Quiet but central neighborhood

4. Omni Riverfront New Orleans ★★★★

As one of the best hotels with a prime riverfront location, the Omni has a luxurious, elegant image. Its entrance is spectacular with an ornate fountain, pillars and palms. The refined cream dining area has purple tables and chairs, and wall lights to create a cozy atmosphere.

The bar and lounge are simply styled with comfortable sofas. Rooms are spacious and individually furnished in a minimalist, but luxurious style. The color scheme is predominantly cream with accents of gold and brown. The cruise terminal and the Aquarium of the Americas are nearby.

Why Stay Here

• Walking distance to Erato & Julia Street cruise terminal (10-15 mins)
• Riverwalk outlet mall just across the street

What are the Best Hotels in New Orleans French Quarter?

Why Stay in French Quarter?

The French Quarter is the oldest and most popular part of the city. Most tourists focus their attention on the neighborhood, which has top restaurants and music venues. Lines with beautiful architecture, the French Quarter offers Old World charm and character.

You will be in the heart of New Orleans, including steps from popular Bourbon Street and family-friendly attractions.

1. Hotel Monteleone ★★★★ (Top)

This luxury four-star hotel is located just one block from Bourbon Street while the cruise port is approximately ten minutes away. The Louis XVI facade is immensely ornate and the spacious entrance hall, complete with sparkling chandeliers and a huge grandfather clock, is overlooked by an upper floor balcony.

The pet-friendly hotel has lounge areas with traditional furniture, luxurious carpets and elaborate drapes. The charming gray and cream dining area contains Louis XVI chairs. The spacious guest rooms are particularly elegant with beautifully patterned bed linen, drapes and canopies in colors of russet and blue.

Why Stay Here

• Located right in the heart of everything
• Very nice historic hotel with outdoor pool, great interior and bar

2. Hotel Le Marais ★★★

Le Marais is located in the Vieux Carré or French Quarter, the oldest district of New Orleans Louisiana. The hotel features traditional shuttered windows and a series of arched French doors. The interior has a sophisticated, contemporary styling, including a spacious lounge with comfortable, bright purple armchairs.

In the evening, the bar area is illuminated by dark blue, purple and pink lights. The rooms are tastefully presented with minimalist gray and white decor with a touch of wood panelling. Just a short walk away is historic Bourbon Street with its raucous collection of bars. The Port of New Orleans is easy to reach by car, taxi or Uber. Cruise terminal is approx. 7 minutes away.

Why Stay Here

• One of the best hotels in French Quarter
• Small hotel in a great location, only half a block off of Bourbon Street

3. Hotel Mazarin ★★★★

The Mazarin is one of the best hotels for capturing the Louisiana charm of the French Quarter. The beige exterior has blue shutters at the windows and a wrought iron balcony. The lounge has deep red walls, traditional brown leather sofas and chairs. The dining room has white mirrored pillars, Louis XVI chairs, beautiful glass chandeliers and highly decorative doors.

The guest rooms are well-appointed with pastel decor and soft furnishings in gold and russet colors. Outside is a charming terrace. Nearby attractions include Royal Street, Bourbon Street and the St. Louis Cathedral.

Why Stay Here

• Excellent location for exploring the French Quarter
• Spacious and comfortable rooms

What are the Best Hotels in New Orleans Garden District near Cruise Ship Terminal?

Why Stay in Garden District?

The Garden district is famous for its historic mansions and the St. Charles Avenue streetcar. It is also renowned for being the home of some of New Orleans’ best restaurants.

You are also close to the antique shops, art galleries, studios and other amazing shopping along Magazine Street. Audobon Park and Zoo are also in the area, as are Tulane and Loyala universities.

Both Erato Street and Julia Street cruise terminals are about 7 minutes away.

1. Pontchartrain Hotel St. Charles Avenue ★★★★ (Top)

This luxurious hotel is in the historic Garden District, a leafy suburb two miles to the south of the cruise port terminal. The beautifully appointed interior captures the elegance of a bygone era. The imposing entrance hall has a marble floor, arched ceiling and glittering chandeliers.

The cozy, welcoming lounge and dining areas are highly decorative with luxurious, traditional furniture and large collections of artwork. The spacious, comfortable guest rooms have elegant drapes in beautiful chintz and velvet. Nearby is Coliseum Square, where there is open parkland with distinctive architectural buildings.

You can reach both cruise terminals in less than 10 minutes by taxi.

Why Stay Here

• Located right on streetcar line
• Rooftop bar with views of city skyline
• Beautiful hotel with character & history

2. Henry Howard Hotel ★★★

As one of the best boutique hotels in New Orleans, this two storey mansion has a luxurious facade of stone pillars and a wrought iron balcony. To the rear there is a small courtyard garden to relax in. The cozy rooms are bright and comfortable and have a highly original decor that blends traditional splendor with contemporary style.

There are exposed brick fireplaces, wooden flooring, elegant Louisiana furniture and musical instruments adorning the walls. Accessories include chandeliers, potted palms and quirky works of art. The cruise port terminal of New Orleans is a short drive away.

Why Stay Here

• Historic 18-room townhouse with great charm
• Free continental breakfast

Unique Properties (when you look for something special Pre- or Post Cruise)

1. Maison de la Luz ★★★★★ (Luxury)

This charming guest house is a special place to stay before a cruise vacation. It has a glamorous originality throughout. The entrance hall has an impressive double wrought iron staircase. There are striking blue and white murals on the walls of the breakfast room and the bar has an exotic, contemporary atmosphere with stools covered in animal print fabric.

The architecture of this nineteenth century mansion has characteristic features including alcoves and archways. Each cozy room is individually styled for comfort and relaxation. Within easy reach are the restaurants of Bourbon Street. The port is only 8 minutes away by taxi, Uber of Lyft.

Why Stay Here

• Luxury 5 star hotel located on the St. Charles historic street car line
• Large, airy and comfortable rooms

2. Maison Perrier ★★★★ (Bed & Breakfast)

There is a warm welcome waiting at this beautifully refurbished nineteenth century mansion located in the Garden District. The exterior has a verandah and upper floor balcony and there is a quaint courtyard garden. The lounge and dining areas are bright, cheerful and comfortably furnished with sofas and chairs in Louisiana and contemporary style.

Ornaments and well-stocked bookshelves add to the friendly atmosphere. The unique guest rooms are incredibly charming with individual color schemes and pretty quilts and drapes. Nearby Magazine Street has many restaurants and stores selling antiques and gifts. It’s about 15 minutes to get to the port.

Why Stay Here

• Beautiful Bed and Breakfast in Garden District
• Located in a peaceful residential area of NOLA

What are the Best Hotels near New Orleans Airport ?

Why stay near New Orleans Airport?

New Orleans International Airport is in Kenner, Jefferson Parish. Interstate 10 conveniently links the area with the cruise terminals and central New Orleans.

Staying at a hotel at or close here gives you the added convenience of being close to the airport, especially if you are arriving on a late flight.

The cruise port of New Orleans can be reached in 20 minutes.

1. Hilton New Orleans Airport ★★★ (Great Value)

This good value hotel offers a free shuttle service to the nearby airport. The multi-storey complex has lounge and dining areas with large windows providing panoramic views of the grounds and garden terrace. Throughout the hotel there is a relaxing color scheme of gray and cream. Wood panelling in the bar makes it particularly cozy and welcoming.

The comfortable, spacious guest rooms are tastefully furnished in a minimalist style. The hotel is located 11.5 miles to the west of the French Quarter, but it is close to several shopping centers and golf courses.

Why Stay Here

• Free airport shuttle
• Comfortable rooms

2. Comfort Suites Kenner ★★ (Free Parking)

The five storey mansion is attractively styled with a row of dormer windows in the roof. The interior decor combines pastel walls with sofas, rugs and elaborate drapes in bright turquoise and antique gold. The cafeteria style dining area has an informal, friendly atmosphere.

The spacious, but cozy rooms have separate lounge and sleeping areas. Traditional furniture and sofas make each room a comfortable haven. The hotel is located close the international airport, making it one of the best places to stay near the airport. Free car parking is available on site (also extended parking).

Why Stay Here

• Free parking
• Good value for money

Hotel Map

Port of New Orleans Erato & Julia Street Cruise Terminals

New Orleans is the sixth largest cruise port in the United States. With the port situated on the Mississippi River and close to the Gulf of Mexico, many Caribbean and river cruise itineraries include the city. Cruise terminals are in the heart of the city and minutes from the Crescent City’s cultural attractions and world class amenities.

According to the Port of New Orleans, over a million cruise passengers visit the city each year. Carnival and Disney cruises are served by the Erato Street Cruise Terminal, while the Julia Street Cruise Terminal is for Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean cruises. Both terminals are within a five- to ten-minute drive of the French Quarter and are served by the Riverfront streetcar. Parking is available at both facilities.

Best Time to Visit and Cruise from New Orleans

New Orleans is cool and comfortable during the winter and spring, making February to May ideal for a visit. This period is also when the city is alive with its world-famous celebrations, including Mardi Gras and the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. Check upcoming events before booking your cruise or flights. Reservations during Mardi Gras and other popular events usually generally need to be made a year in advance.

If you are not interested hustle and bustle of that New Orleans’ famous events attract, December and January are calmer times to visit. You also avoid the blistering heat and humidity of summer months. October and November also offer milder temperatures and are great times to enjoy local seafood. If you plan to spend time in a local hotel, these months offer better rates and more availability.

Useful Information About New Orleans for Cruise Passengers

If you do plan to stay a night or more in New Orleans, the city has hundreds of options for any budget from landmark hotels in the heart of downtown to quiet inns in beautiful residential neighborhoods.

Many of the city’s hotels are a short drive or walk from the cruise terminals and are easily accessible by public transit. Several hotels also offer packages with parking if you are driving and shuttle buses.

New Orleans’ cruise terminals are close to major attractions, including the French Quarter and Central Business District.

You can travel to and from the terminal by taxi or with an Uber or Lyft. Public transit is also an option, including the Riverfront streetcar line.

Our hotel lists are organized based on distance and amenities, from options within walking distance of the cruise terminals to those with free shuttle service to and from the airport.

You can also look at luxury and unique hotels or search based on location, including the French Quarter and Garden District.

We’re confident you will find the perfect place to stay during your visit to New Orleans.

Downtown New Orleans, or the Central Business District (CBD) area includes soaring office towers as well as the historic Warehouse District with top galleries and museums. Many of the city’s landmark hotels are based in the CBD, steps from the French Quarter.

With beautiful architecture and Bourbon Street, the French Quarter is the best-known neighborhood to stay. The vibrant area north of the cruise terminals is filled with street performers and is perfect for carriage rides. It is also home to the Cabildo Museum and the Aquarium of the Americas.

Upriver from the cruise terminals is Uptown and the Garden District, offering picturesque neighborhoods. Easily accessible by public transport, the area offers a quieter stay. You will also find quaint bed and breakfasts and small inns in the Marigny and Bywater neighbourhoods downriver from the French Quarter.

Buses and streetcars quickly link hotels and major attractions, including cruise terminals. Walking or renting a bike are also great ways to explore, especially if you are staying in the CBD, French Quarter, Uptown or Garden District. If you are driving, parking at the terminals is convenient but expensive. Nearby parking lots provide cheaper options, including the Fulton garage a block away.

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(Latest update December 29th 2023)

Please contact us if any information is incorrect or not up-to-date.

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