French Quarter, New Orleans Travel Guide
Explore the French Quarter, New Orleans' oldest and most vibrant neighborhood, known for its rich history, eclectic architecture, and pulsating nightlife.
The French Quarter, or Vieux Carré, is the vibrant heart of New Orleans, Louisiana. Known for its rich history, eclectic architecture, and lively atmosphere, this neighborhood is a must-visit for any tourist. Founded in 1718, the French Quarter is the oldest neighborhood in the city and offers a unique blend of Spanish, French, Creole, and American cultures. Stroll down the cobblestone streets and you'll find yourself amidst historic landmarks, jazz clubs, and bustling markets. The iconic Bourbon Street is the epicenter of nightlife, lined with bars and clubs that pulse with music and excitement. For a more relaxed experience, visit Jackson Square, a beautiful park surrounded by historic buildings and street performers. The French Quarter is also a culinary paradise. From beignets at Café du Monde to gourmet Creole cuisine at upscale restaurants, your taste buds are in for a treat. Don't miss out on the French Market, where you can shop for local produce, crafts, and souvenirs. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or just looking to soak in the lively atmosphere, the French Quarter offers something for everyone.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring French Quarter.
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes—cobblestone streets can be tricky to navigate.
- Carry cash; some smaller shops and vendors may not accept credit cards.
- Don't miss the chance to take a guided tour to learn about the area's rich history.
- Be cautious on Bourbon Street at night; it can get very crowded.
Explore French Quarter: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More
Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more
Best attractions in French Quarter
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Audubon Aquarium
Discover the aquatic wonders at the Audubon Aquarium in New Orleans, where marine life and conservation come together for an unforgettable experience.
Woldenberg Park
Explore Woldenberg Park, a lush urban sanctuary along the Mississippi River, offering stunning views, vibrant culture, and a taste of New Orleans' charm.
St. Louis Cathedral
Discover the stunning beauty and rich history of St. Louis Cathedral in the heart of New Orleans' French Quarter, a must-visit for all travelers.
New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum
Explore the captivating history and mysticism of voodoo at the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum in the vibrant French Quarter.
Best landmarks in French Quarter
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Jackson Square
Experience the vibrant culture and rich history of New Orleans at Jackson Square, a must-visit landmark in the French Quarter.
The Presbytère
Explore the heart of Louisiana's culture and history at The Presbytère, a unique local history museum in the vibrant French Quarter of New Orleans.
Gallier House
Discover the enchanting Gallier House, a historical gem in the French Quarter, showcasing New Orleans' architectural heritage and vibrant culture.
Joan of Arc, Maid of Orleans
Explore the Joan of Arc Monument in New Orleans, a stunning tribute to the Maid of Orleans in the heart of the French Quarter, celebrating courage and history.
Best restaurants in French Quarter
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Olde Nola Cookery
Experience authentic Cajun flavors and fresh seafood at Olde Nola Cookery, a beloved dining spot in New Orleans' vibrant French Quarter.
Muriel's Jackson Square
Discover the elegance and flavor of Muriel's Jackson Square in New Orleans' historic French Quarter—a perfect blend of Southern cuisine and vibrant atmosphere.
The Original French Market Restaurant and Bar
Discover authentic Creole cuisine at The Original French Market Restaurant and Bar in New Orleans' historic French Quarter.
The Original Pierre Maspero's
Experience authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine at The Original Pierre Maspero's in New Orleans' lively French Quarter.
Best bars in French Quarter
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Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar
Experience the historic charm of Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar, one of the oldest bars in the U.S., nestled in New Orleans' vibrant French Quarter.
Pat O'Brien's
Experience the vibrant essence of New Orleans at Pat O'Brien's, a bar and restaurant known for its signature cocktails and live music in the heart of the French Quarter.
The Carousel Bar & Lounge
Discover the enchanting Carousel Bar & Lounge in New Orleans, where history meets whimsy in a delightful cocktail experience.
Old Absinthe House
Discover the historic Old Absinthe House, a legendary bar in the heart of the French Quarter, famous for its exquisite absinthe cocktails and vibrant atmosphere.
Best nightclubs in French Quarter
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Beach On Bourbon
Experience the vibrant nightlife of New Orleans at Beach On Bourbon, where music, dancing, and fun come together in the heart of the French Quarter.
The Dungeon
Discover The Dungeon in New Orleans: a rock music night club that offers a unique atmosphere for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Tropical Isle's Bayou Club
Discover the lively atmosphere, live music, and signature cocktails at Tropical Isle's Bayou Club in the heart of New Orleans' French Quarter.
Prohibition
Dive into the vibrant nightlife of New Orleans at Prohibition, where music, dance, and delicious drinks come together in a memorable experience.
Best shops in French Quarter
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Shops of the Colonnade
Explore the Shops of the Colonnade in New Orleans for unique crafts, local delicacies, and a vibrant cultural experience in the heart of the French Quarter.
Marie Laveau's House Of Voodoo
Discover the enchanting world of voodoo at Marie Laveau's House of Voodoo, a unique shop in New Orleans' French Quarter offering authentic artifacts and cultural insights.
Boutique Du Vampyre
Explore the gothic allure of Boutique Du Vampyre in New Orleans, where fantasy meets reality in a treasure trove of supernatural gifts.
Dark Matter Oddities & Artisan Collective
Explore Dark Matter Oddities in New Orleans for a unique blend of antiques, art, and artisan treasures in the heart of the French Quarter.
Explore French Quarter on the Map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots in French Quarter, mapped for you.
French Quarter Essentials
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The French Quarter is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in New Orleans. If you are coming from the Central Business District (CBD), it's just a short 15-20 minute walk or a quick ride on the streetcar. The St. Charles Avenue streetcar line takes you to Canal Street, from where you can walk into the heart of the French Quarter. For those coming from the Garden District, the same streetcar can be used. Taxis, rideshares like Uber and Lyft, and public buses also frequently service the area.
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The French Quarter is best explored on foot due to its compact size and pedestrian-friendly layout. Walking allows you to fully appreciate the historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Bicycles are also a popular option, with several bike rental shops available. If you're looking to venture further out, the streetcar is a great way to travel to surrounding neighborhoods. The RTA provides bus services as well, but specific routes may be limited within the quarter.
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The French Quarter is generally safe for tourists, but caution is advised, especially at night. Areas around Bourbon Street can be more prone to petty crimes, such as pickpocketing and theft. It is advisable to avoid walking alone in less crowded areas after dark. Always stay aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
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In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The New Orleans Police Department has a presence in the French Quarter, and local hospitals are available for medical emergencies. Familiarize yourself with the locations of the nearest medical facilities and pharmacies in case you need urgent care.
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Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes for walking, and consider lightweight clothing in the warm months. Don't wear overly revealing clothing, especially when visiting religious sites like St. Louis Cathedral. Religion: Do be respectful when visiting churches, and avoid loud behavior. Public Transport: Do wait for the streetcar to come to a complete stop before boarding. Don’t block the aisles with bags or belongings. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Hello' or 'How y'all doing?' Don't forget to smile and make eye contact. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like beignets and gumbo. Don't drink alcohol in public areas outside of designated zones.
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To experience the French Quarter like a local, visit the French Market for fresh produce and local crafts. Attend live music events at smaller venues to enjoy authentic New Orleans music. Try to explore the quieter streets, such as Royal Street, for unique shops and art galleries. For an insider's view, join a walking tour that focuses on the neighborhood's history and architecture. Be sure to stop by local eateries and cafes, and don’t be afraid to ask locals for recommendations.
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When in the French Quarter, it’s essential to respect local customs. Many locals are proud of their unique culture and heritage, so taking an interest in local traditions and history is appreciated. When dining, it is customary to thank the staff and show appreciation for service. Avoid discussing sensitive topics related to politics or religion unless initiated by locals.
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New Orleans experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. If visiting during the summer, be prepared for heat and humidity. Spring (especially during Mardi Gras) and fall are popular seasons for tourism due to more temperate weather. Plan ahead for major events, as accommodations can book quickly and prices may increase.
Useful Local Phrases for French Quarter
You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.
— Eve
Here are the phrases I use most often in French Quarter. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️
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- HelloBonjour
[bon-zhoor] - GoodbyeAu revoir
[oh re-vwah] - YesOui
[wee] - NoNon
[nohn] - Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît/De rien
[see voo pleh/dee ree-ahn] - Thank youMerci
[mehr-see] - Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi/Désolé
[ex-kew-zay mwah/deh-zoh-lay] - How are you?Comment ça va?
[koh-mohn sah vah] - Fine. And you?Bien. Et toi?
[byen. ay twah] - Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
[par-lay voo ahn-glay] - I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
[zhuh nuh kohm-prahn pah]
- HelloBonjour
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir le menu, s'il vous plaît
[zhuh voo-dray vwahr luh muh-nyoo, see voo pleh] - I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
[zhuh nuh mahnj pah duh vyand] - Cheers!Santé!
[sahn-tay] - I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît
[zhuh voo-dray pay-ay, see voo pleh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir le menu, s'il vous plaît
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- Help!Au secours!
[oh suh-coor] - Go away!Allez-vous-en!
[ah-lay voo zahn] - Call the Police!Appelez la police!
[ah-play lah poh-lees] - Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
[ah-play uh may-sahn] - I'm lostJe suis perdu
[zhuh swee pair-doo] - I'm illJe suis malade
[zhuh swee mah-lahd]
- Help!Au secours!
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- I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
[zhuh voo-dray ah-shet-ay] - I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
[zhuh ruh-gard zhust] - How much is it?Combien ça coûte?
[kohm-byen sah koot] - That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
[say troh share] - Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
[poo-vay voo bay-say luh pree]
- I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
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- What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
[kell ur ay eel] - It's one o'clockIl est une heure
[eel ay oon ur] - Half past (10)Dix et demi
[dees ay duh-mee] - MorningMatin
[mah-tahn] - AfternoonAprès-midi
[ah-pray mee-dee] - EveningSoir
[swah] - YesterdayHier
[yair] - TodayAujourd'hui
[oh-zhoor-dwee] - TomorrowDemain
[duh-mahn] - 1Un
[uhn] - 2Deux
[duh] - 3Trois
[twah] - 4Quatre
[kat] - 5Cinq
[sank] - 6Six
[sees] - 7Sept
[set] - 8Huit
[weet] - 9Neuf
[nuf] - 10Dix
[dees]
- What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
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- Where's a/the...?Où est un/le...?
[oo ay uh/luh] - What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
[kell ay la-dress] - Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?
[poo-vay voo muh mohn-tray (soor lah kart)] - When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?
[kahnd ay luh proh-shahn (bus)] - A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ....)
[uhn bee-yay (poor)]
- Where's a/the...?Où est un/le...?
History of French Quarter
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The French Quarter, or Vieux Carré, was established in 1718 when Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville founded New Orleans. As the first neighborhood of the city, the French Quarter was designed with a grid layout and featured narrow streets, which reflected the French colonial style. This area became a melting pot of cultures, with influences from French, Spanish, African, and Native American traditions shaping its identity.
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Following the Treaty of Fontainebleau in 1762, control of New Orleans shifted to Spain, leading to significant changes in the French Quarter. The Spanish ruled from 1763 to 1800, and during this period, many buildings adopted Spanish colonial architectural styles, characterized by wrought-iron balconies and stucco facades. The Cabildo and the Presbytère were constructed during this time, showcasing the blend of French and Spanish influences.
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In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the French Quarter emerged as the birthplace of jazz music. Notable musicians like Louis Armstrong and Jelly Roll Morton played in the vibrant clubs and bars of the area. The rich musical heritage of the French Quarter, combined with its lively street performances, festivals, and Mardi Gras celebrations, solidified its reputation as a cultural hub in New Orleans.
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The devastation of Hurricane Katrina in 2005 brought unprecedented challenges to the French Quarter. While the area largely escaped the severe flooding that affected other neighborhoods, the storm nonetheless impacted businesses, tourism, and the local community. In the years that followed, the French Quarter showcased its resilience, with restoration efforts revitalizing the historic architecture and cultural events, reaffirming its role as a key destination in New Orleans.
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Today, the French Quarter is celebrated for its vibrant culture, history, and architecture. The neighborhood is home to iconic landmarks such as St. Louis Cathedral, Jackson Square, and the French Market. Street performers, artists, and musicians fill the streets, reflecting the area's ongoing evolution while preserving its rich heritage. Festivals such as the French Quarter Festival and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival continue to draw visitors and showcase the neighborhood's unique cultural tapestry.
Neighbourhoods near French Quarter
The closest neighbourhoods to French Quarter, if you have time for more than one stop.
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Explore More of New Orleans
Looking beyond French Quarter? Discover New Orleans for broader travel guides, local hot-spots, and regional highlights.
Explore New OrleansFrench Quarter in Photos
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The Enigmatic French Quarter of New Orleans
The French Quarter, or Vieux Carré, is the vibrant heart of New Orleans, Louisiana. Known for its rich history, eclectic architecture, and lively atmosphere, this neighborhood is a must-visit for any tourist. Founded in 1718, the French Quarter is the oldest neighborhood in the city and offers a unique blend of Spanish, French, Creole, and American cultures. Stroll down the cobblestone streets and you'll find yourself amidst historic landmarks, jazz clubs, and bustling markets. The iconic Bourbon Street is the epicenter of nightlife, lined with bars and clubs that pulse with music and excitement. For a more relaxed experience, visit Jackson Square, a beautiful park surrounded by historic buildings and street performers. The French Quarter is also a culinary paradise. From beignets at Café du Monde to gourmet Creole cuisine at upscale restaurants, your taste buds are in for a treat. Don't miss out on the French Market, where you can shop for local produce, crafts, and souvenirs. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or just looking to soak in the lively atmosphere, the French Quarter offers something for everyone.