You do not need a car. The St. Charles streetcar (world's oldest, running since 1835) and the RTA bus network cover the major neighborhoods. A 1-day Jazzy Pass ($3) or 3-day pass ($8) gives unlimited rides on all streetcars and buses — buy one via the RTA's Le Pass app or at Canal Street machines. For late nights, use Uber or Lyft rather than walking alone in unfamiliar areas. The French Quarter and Frenchmen Street are generally lively and safe with crowds, but side streets and the edges of downtown can be quiet after midnight.