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Compare car rental prices from major providers in New Orleans with Road Genius. From small economy cars to premium SUVs and minivans, you'll find vehicles at low prices in convenient locations. Pick up at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) for a wide choice, or choose a city centre or French Quarter depot for lower base rates and no airport fees. It’s ideal for day trips to Baton Rouge, Biloxi and Plantation Alley, so check local parking rules and the southbound Causeway toll if you plan to cross Lake Pontchartrain.
New Orleans has several car rental locations, each offering advantages based on your travel plans.
| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Louis Armstrong International Airport (MSY) |
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| City Centre/French Quarter |
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MSY Airport Rental Notes:
City Centre Rental Notes:
On average, car rentals in New Orleans cost around USD $76 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals available from USD $28 per day.
Compare MSY vs city centre pickup: The city centre usually has lower base rates with no airport fees, great if you’re staying in the French Quarter first. Just note shorter hours and limited Sundays.
Start after the walkable days: Use streetcars or rideshare in town, then pick up a car for day trips. Cuts rental days and pricey hotel parking.
Be date-flexible: Monday–Wednesday starts can be cheaper than weekends. For Mardi Gras or Jazz Fest, book months ahead. Summer typically has lower rates.
Check weekly vs daily: For 5+ days, a weekly rate can beat separate daily pricing. Nudge pickup/return times to avoid an extra day charge.
Compare vehicle classes and locations: Compact or mid-size saves money and fits tight French Quarter parking. During festivals, inventory shrinks, so compare multiple pickup spots.
Skip paid extras: Use your phone instead of GPS, bring your own child seat. On the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, pay the $5 southbound toll in cash to avoid daily toll programme fees.
Finding a parking spot in New Orleans requires planning, especially in the French Quarter and city centre areas.
| Area | Parking Options | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| French Quarter |
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| City Centre/CBD |
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| Hotels |
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Local Driving Regulations:
Toll Options:
Get a car to get to:
Plantation Alley – Oak Alley, Laura Plantation
Mississippi Gulf Coast (Biloxi) – beaches, casinos
Baton Rouge – LSU campus, State Capitol, museums
Lafayette – Cajun country, Atchafalaya Basin
North Shore (Covington/Abita Springs) – Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, Abita Brewery
Jean Lafitte National Historical Park – Barataria Preserve
Is it worth renting a car in New Orleans if I'm staying in the French Quarter?
If you plan to stay only in the French Quarter, Garden District and city centre areas, you don't need a car. You can walk around these areas or get to them using the streetcar and rideshare services. However, a car is helpful if you want to explore beyond these neighbourhoods or take day trips.
What documents do I need to rent a car in New Orleans?
You'll need a valid driver's licence and a credit card in your name. You also need to show proof of your own car insurance or buy coverage from the rental company. International visitors should have an International Driving Permit if their licence isn't in English.
How much is parking in the French Quarter?
Street parking is hard to find and costs about $3 per hour, with a 2-hour maximum. Parking garages will charge you about $20-30 per day. Hotels in the Quarter usually charge $30-50 per night for valet parking.
Are there any alternative transportation options from the airport?
Yes. You can take an airport shuttle for about $24 one-way or a taxi. Taxis have a set price of about $36 to the French Quarter for one or two people and it's $15 for each extra person. Rideshare services like Uber or Lyft cost about $30-40. You can also catch the Jefferson Transit “E1 – Veterans–Airport” bus, which goes to the city centre for $2.00 one-way. (The RTA 202 Airport Express is still not running as of 2024.)
Can I return my rental car after hours?
Yes, most rental places at the airport let you return cars after hours using a key drop box. City centre locations might not offer this, so you should check with your rental company.
What's the minimum age to rent a car in New Orleans?
Most companies will rent a car to you if you're 21 or older. But if you're under 25, they will charge you a 'young driver' extra fee of about $25-30 per day. Some companies rent to drivers aged 18-20, but they charge an even higher extra fee.
Should I be concerned about driving during hurricane season?
Hurricane season is from June to November, and the biggest risk is in August and September. If the forecast says a storm is coming, you should listen to what local officials tell you to do. You should also think about getting travel insurance that covers problems caused by the weather.
What's the easiest route from MSY Airport to the French Quarter?
From the airport, you take Airport Road to I-10 East heading to New Orleans. Keep driving on I-10 into the city and then take Exit 235A (Orleans Ave / Vieux Carré) or Exit 236B (Canal St) to get to the French Quarter. The drive takes 20-25 minutes if there's not much traffic.
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