With a gorgeous Tuscan-style courtyard complete with a heated saltwater pool; seven exclusive one- and two-bedroom cottages; top-notch services; and a central location in the French Quarter, the Audubon Cottages is a great pick for travelers looking to splurge. Just note that there are no amenities aside from the pool and that parking is available only at the hotel's sister property a block away.

Trendsetters and celebs stay at the International House Hotel for its quietly sexy vibe, attentive staff, and posh rooms designed by a top L.A. designer. At night, the hotel's Loa Bar (just off the rose-scented lobby) serves fancy libations by candlelight. The rates here are surprisingly fair, and the Central Business District location is within walking distance of the French Quarter.

The Saint is a sleek hotel located on the border of the French Quarter and the Central Business District. Its 166 stylish rooms have attractive blue-and-white decor and great amenities, including flat-screen TVs, minibars, iPod docks, and free Wi-Fi. There are great nightlife options on-site: a rooftop bar -- offering expansive city views -- and the sexy Burgundy Bar with live music. But foodies might want to explore the myriad dining options outside the hotel instead of eating at Tempt.

The Hotel Mazarin is an upscale boutique located in the heart of the French Quarter. It features 102 rooms with elegant decor, striking bathrooms, and solid amenities -- including large flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, and free Wi-Fi. The property offers wonderful freebies, and a popular wine bar with outdoor seating -- but the highlight here is the gorgeous arched courtyard, a welcome retreat from the crowds of Bourbon Street. Plus, rates are competitive, and location is convenient for those looking to explore the main tourist attractions on foot.

Straddling two busy French Quarter streets, the historic Bienville House is as an urban oasis, with tropical rooftop terraces and a soothing courtyard. This boutique hotel has fewer than 100 rooms, a parlor-like lobby and friendly touches, such as free lemonade and cookies in the afternoon. High ceilings make the rooms feel spacious, but the decor is unremarkable, and Standard Rooms lack windows.

Authentic and funky, this historic boutique -- located in a residential area on the French Quarter's far edge -- allows guests to experience the neighborhood as the locals do. It's also an easy walk to Frenchman Street, an exciting area in the Marigny experiencing a renaissance in live music and tapas-oriented restaurants. But while the old-world decor is charming enough in the lobby, it's less impressive in the slightly worn rooms, and bathrooms are in dire need of renovation.