Often classed as the crown jewel of New Orleans, the illustrious French Quarter is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the US. The city was founded in 1718 by French Canadian naval officer Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville and four centuries of development have left its mark on the historic neighborhood, a place where modern bars mix with antique stores and age-old restaurants.

The beating heart of the French Quarter is Bourbon Street (pictured) which stretches across 13 blocks. With its neon lights, crowds of revelers, pulsating music, and colorful beads strewn on balconies, the street is a vibrant symbol of the party town.

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