For the best overview of New Orleans, city tours range from classic walking routes to specialized experiences. Start with the essential French Quarter walking tours – they efficiently cover the must-see landmarks like Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral while providing valuable historical context. Ghost tours through the French Quarter are particularly worthwhile after dark, combining spine-tingling stories with authentic local history. For food lovers, the culinary walking tours in the Garden District deliver excellent value, letting you taste authentic Creole dishes while learning about the city’s unique food culture.
I especially recommend the small-group morning walking tours when the streets are quiet and cool. The storytelling guides bring the city’s complex past to life without overwhelming you with dates and details. For those with limited time, the 3-hour bus tours efficiently cover both the French Quarter and Garden District highlights.
Check out our carefully selected top tours below.
Key Points
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New Orleans City and Cemetery Tours provide an excellent overview of the city’s vibrant culture, history, and landmarks with knowledgeable guides and high guest satisfaction.
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Specialty and combination tours, such as the Highlights of New Orleans City and Destrehan Plantation Tour, offer a comprehensive experience blending city sights and historical exploration.
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Walking and small-group tours, like the New Orleans: The Big Easy City Walking Tour and Biking Tours of New Orleans, provide immersive and personalized experiences.
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Haunted History and Ghost Tours unveil the city’s supernatural side, exploring haunted locations and uncovering local legends and cultural significance.
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Culinary, Music, and Eco Tours offer unique opportunities to explore New Orleans’ rich food culture, vibrant music scene, and captivating natural environment.
New Orleans City and Cemetery Tour
The New Orleans Sightseeing City Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
This 2.5-hour guided tour whisks travelers through iconic landmarks like Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, and the historic Faubourg Marigny and Treme neighborhoods.
Highlights include entrance to the renowned St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 and optional beignets and coffee at City Park.
With a 95% recommendation rate and a 4.8/5 rating, the tour’s knowledgeable guides captivate guests with their storytelling and insights into New Orleans’ past, including the impact of Hurricane Katrina.
While some travelers note a rushed pace, the tour provides an excellent overview for those seeking to enjoy the city’s vibrant culture.
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Big Easy City & Cemetery Tour
Visitors seeking an immersive exploration of New Orleans’ haunted history won’t want to miss the Big Easy City & Cemetery Tour.
This 1-hour tour offers a unique opportunity to venture beyond the bustling French Quarter and explore the eerie atmosphere of the city’s historic cemeteries. For just $20 per person, guests can stroll among the above-ground tombs while a knowledgeable guide shares chilling tales of New Orleans’ haunted past and the traditions of jazz funerals.
With a maximum group size of 7, the tour provides an intimate experience. Guests are encouraged to bring their cameras to capture any potential paranormal activity during the tour.
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New Orleans City and Cemetery 2-Hour Bus Tour
Seeking a more comprehensive exploration of New Orleans’ haunted history and local culture? The New Orleans City and Cemetery 2-Hour Bus Tour offers an engaging and informative experience.
With 1,741 reviews and a 91% recommendation rate, this tour has earned a Badge of Excellence. Led by licensed guides, the tour provides an overview of the city, including a visit to a historic cemetery.
Travelers appreciate the knowledgeable and entertaining commentary, as well as the convenient hotel pickup and air-conditioned transportation.
While some reviewers note room for improvement in timing and guide knowledge, the overall experience is praised for its insights into New Orleans’ neighborhoods, history, and local culture.
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New Orleans: The Big Easy City Walking Tour
Exploring the historic French Quarter, one of the oldest neighborhoods in the U.S., the New Orleans: The Big Easy City Walking Tour offers an engaging 2-hour experience.
Priced from $35 per person, the tour takes participants through 78 blocks, highlighting the neighborhood’s dark mythology, paranormal activity, and tragic history.
Guests may encounter cold spots or apparitions as they visit locations known for voodoo, ghosts, and vampires. The tour is wheelchair accessible, with English as the language.
While past reviews are mixed, the tour provides good value for money. However, the operator reserves the right to cancel tours without minimum participants, and gratuities are included in the price.
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New Orleans Small-Group City Tour by Van
For those looking to cover more ground in New Orleans beyond the iconic French Quarter, the New Orleans Small-Group City Tour by Van offers a comprehensive half-day adventure.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, this intimate tour explores the city’s architectural, cultural, historical, and natural highlights, including the Garden District, historic cemeteries, and the resilience of post-Hurricane Katrina recovery.
Knowledgeable local guides share insightful narratives, and travelers appreciate the small-group experience and hotel pickup and drop-off.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour provides a comfortable van experience for those preferring less walking.
With 930 reviews and a 95% recommendation rate, this tour is a top choice for discovering the many facets of the Big Easy.
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New Orleans: City and Cemetery Sightseeing Tour
The New Orleans: City and Cemetery Sightseeing Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich history and unique culture.
This 2.5-hour guided bus tour covers the architectural splendor of the French Quarter and Garden District, as well as the mystical stories and unique burial customs of St. Louis Cemetery No. 3.
Travelers will experience New Orleans’ voodoo heritage and explore the city’s diverse cultural influences.
The tour departs from the Homewood Suites by Hilton New Orleans French Quarter and includes transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned mini-coach.
With a 4.5/5 rating based on customer reviews, this tour is a must-do for those seeking an immersive New Orleans experience.
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Three-Hour City Tour of New Orleans by Minibus
Travelers seeking a rundown of New Orleans can opt for the Three-Hour City Tour by Minibus. Boasting a 4.6 rating from over 2,200 reviews, this tour covers major points of interest, including the French Quarter, Treme, and Metairie Cemetery.
Guests ride in an air-conditioned minibus with a knowledgeable local guide who provides historical context and cultural insights. The tour’s flexibility allows for stops at popular locations like Café du Monde, and reviewers praise the guides’ expertise and engaging commentary.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, this tour offers an informative and entertaining introduction to the city, making it an excellent choice for first-time visitors to New Orleans.
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Highlights of New Orleans City and Destrehan Plantation Tour
This comprehensive private tour whisks travelers through the highlights of New Orleans and the historic Destrehan Plantation over the course of 4 hours.
Guests will explore the French Quarter, the oldest neighborhood in the city founded in 1718, and the grand mansions and gardens of the Garden District.
The tour also includes a 2-hour guided visit to Destrehan Plantation, where visitors can learn about the region’s plantation history and experience the rustic life of the time.
With a licensed guide, private transportation, and full narration, this tour offers an immersive and insightful look at the city’s rich culture and heritage.
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New Orleans City and Cemetery Sightseeing Tour
Exploring the vibrant heart of New Orleans, this 3-hour city and cemetery sightseeing tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
With a 94% traveler recommendation, the tour showcases the French Quarter’s iconic architecture, the elegant Garden District, and the renowned St. Louis Cemetery No. 3, including Marie Laveau’s tomb.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour immerses participants in New Orleans’ storied past, from its French and Spanish influences to the significance of Creole townhouses and above-ground burials.
Providing a well-rounded introduction to the city, this tour is an ideal choice for first-time visitors seeking an engaging and informative exploration of New Orleans’ cultural gems.
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Highlights of New Orleans City and Swamp Tour Combination
Complementing the New Orleans City and Cemetery Sightseeing Tour, the Highlights of New Orleans City and Swamp Tour Combination offers an immersive journey through the city’s vibrant heart and the captivating ecosystems of the surrounding wetlands.
Priced at $546.67 per person for a 5-hour experience, this tour provides a tailored luxury experience with a personal touch, thanks to the expertise of a private, English-speaking guide with over 25 years of experience.
Highlights include exploring the historic Garden District and the French Quarter, as well as an exhilarating airboat ride through the Bayou Segnette State Park, where visitors can discover the unique flora and fauna of the Louisiana swamps.
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New Orleans City and Cemetery Bus Tour
Why not discover the vibrant heart of New Orleans on the comprehensive New Orleans City and Cemetery Bus Tour? This 2.5-hour small-group tour takes you through historic neighborhoods like the French Quarter and Garden District.
Along the way, you’ll stop at St. Louis cemeteries for a unique experience. Friendly local guides provide engaging insights into the city’s rich history.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, this tour offers excellent value and flexibility. Travelers praise the guides’ knowledge and the tour’s comfortable planning.
While some wish for more photo opportunities, the tour consistently earns high marks, with 94% of guests recommending the experience.
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New Orleans: Urban Cultural and Historical City Tour
Immersing oneself in New Orleans’ rich African culture and heritage, the Urban Cultural and Historical City Tour offers a captivating exploration of the city’s iconic historical sites, vibrant markets, and renowned museums.
Priced from $55 per person, the 2.5-hour tour takes visitors on a journey through significant locations like Congo Square, Antebellum Slave Quarters, and the Lower Ninth Ward.
Along the way, knowledgeable guides share insights into events such as Plessy vs. Ferguson and the Civil Rights Trail. Complementing the historical narrative are stunning murals and artworks that dot the cityscape.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a 4.7/5 rating from 14 reviews, this tour provides an immersive and insightful experience.
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New Orleans Heart of the City Small-Group Bike Tour
This popular New Orleans Heart of the City Bicycle Tour offers an engaging and immersive exploration of the city’s less-touristy neighborhoods.
With 193 glowing reviews and a 100% recommendation from travelers, this tour has earned a Badge of Excellence.
During the 3-hour tour, a knowledgeable guide leads a small group (maximum of 10) through Faubourg Marigny and Bywater, sharing insights into the multicultural origins and evolution of Creole culture.
Highlights include visiting landmarks like St. Roch Cemetery.
Provided equipment includes a rental bike and helmet, and bottled water is also included.
While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, this tour is an excellent way to experience New Orleans’ hidden gems from a local’s perspective.
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New Orleans: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
For those seeking a more comprehensive tour of New Orleans’ top attractions, the City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour offers a convenient and flexible way to explore the city.
With a 4.5 rating from 171 reviews, this tour allows visitors to hop on and off at their leisure, stopping at iconic landmarks like the French Quarter, Garden District, and National WWII Museum.
The tour lasts 1.5 hours and is available for 2 or 3 days, providing ample time to see the city’s highlights.
At €48.17, it’s a cost-effective option for those wanting to maximize their sightseeing in New Orleans.
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New Orleans Small-Group City and Cemetery Tour
The New Orleans Small-Group City and Cemetery Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich history and iconic landmarks.
With a maximum group size of 12, this 4-hour tour provides a personalized experience led by knowledgeable guides.
Highlights include a guided tour of St. Louis Cemetery No. 3, sightseeing through the French Quarter, and stops at key locations like the Garden District and Katrina memorial.
Guests praise the tour for its engaging storytelling and insights, though some feedback mentions temperature issues in the air-conditioned van.
Offering free cancellation and pickup from central hotels, this highly-rated tour is an excellent way to discover the unique charm of New Orleans.
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New Orleans: Private Guided City Tour
Offering a personalized exploration of New Orleans, the Private Guided City Tour immerses visitors in the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.
Priced from $498 for up to 3 participants, this 5-hour tour showcases off-the-beaten-path gems and unique stops beyond typical tourist destinations.
Guests enjoy a comfortable ride in a custom conversion van and learn about the city’s diverse influences, including the impact of Hurricane Katrina, the blending of cultures, and the significance of historical sites like opulent mansions and iconic cemeteries.
With free cancellation, flexible start times, and wheelchair accessibility, this private tour provides an immersive and tailored experience for discovering the heart of New Orleans.
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Private New Orleans City Tour With Local Expert Guide
Travelers frequently choose the Private New Orleans City Tour with Local Expert Guide to enjoy the vibrant culture and rich history of the Crescent City.
This highly-rated tour, recommended by 98% of travelers, takes visitors beyond the French Quarter to explore neighborhoods like Bywater and Bayou Saint John.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour provides in-depth insights into New Orleans’ past and present, with personalized itineraries to suit travelers’ interests.
With door-to-door transportation and the flexibility of a private tour, this experience offers an off-the-beaten-track look at the city’s unique charms.
While some reviews note mixed guide enthusiasm, the overall consensus is that this tour delivers a memorable and informative exploration of New Orleans.
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New Orleans: Oak Alley Plantation and Katrina City Tour
For those seeking a comprehensive exploration of New Orleans’ rich history and resilience, the New Orleans: Oak Alley Plantation and Katrina City Tour provides an immersive experience.
Priced from $120 per person, this 8.5-hour tour takes visitors through Creole heritage, the iconic Oak Alley Plantation, and the areas impacted by Hurricane Katrina.
With a live English-speaking guide, guests enjoy scenic bus rides, a boat cruise, and wildlife viewing.
Pickup and drop-off are available at over 200 locations, including major hotels.
Flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance make this tour an ideal choice for those wanting to explore the city’s past and present.
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New Orleans City/Cemetery and Swamp Full-Day Tour
This comprehensive full-day tour in New Orleans combines the best of the city’s historic landmarks with an exhilarating adventure through the bayou.
Travelers journey through Cajun Country with a professional guide, learning about the region’s rich Creole history, culture, and the impact of Hurricane Katrina.
The tour offers a choice between a leisurely boat ride or a thrilling airboat ride in the swamps, providing opportunities to spot alligators and other wildlife.
With a maximum of 20 travelers, the tour ensures a personalized experience.
Rated 4.8/5 based on 153 reviews, this activity is a highly recommended way to experience the diverse sights and sounds of New Orleans.
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New Orleans: Guided City Sightseeing Tour by Bus
Visitors can embark on a comprehensive city sightseeing tour of New Orleans, exploring the city’s historic landmarks, iconic cemeteries, and picturesque neighborhoods.
The 3-hour tour covers the French Quarter, St. Louis Cemetery No. 3, City Park, and the Garden District, providing a well-rounded experience for $55 per person.
Transportation is via a motorcoach with wheelchair accessibility. Highlights include the unique atmosphere of the French Quarter, the historic St. Louis Cemetery, and the scenic views of the mansions and universities along St. Charles Avenue.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5 and praise for knowledgeable guides, this tour offers an excellent way to discover the best of New Orleans.
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The Sum Up
New Orleans is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. With a wide range of city tours available, visitors can explore the French Quarter, historic cemeteries, and nearby plantations. Whether you prefer a guided bus tour or a walking adventure, there’s something to suit every interest and budget in this vibrant Southern city.