The best New Orleans city tours pack exceptional value and cultural insight into manageable timeframes. A well-organized 3-hour minibus excursion efficiently covers key neighborhoods while keeping groups small and personal. I especially recommend the African heritage walking tour – it’s budget-friendly and reveals important historical perspectives often missed by standard tours. For a fascinating look at local traditions, the cemetery tours expertly explain the unique above-ground burial customs while sharing compelling stories of past residents. Helicopter tours, though pricier, deliver unforgettable aerial views of the French Quarter and Mississippi River. Private guided walks allow for customized routes and deeper neighborhood exploration. Let’s explore the top-rated tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
- The Three-Hour City Tour by Minibus provides a rundown of New Orleans’ iconic neighborhoods and landmarks with live commentary from knowledgeable guides.
- The Urban Cultural and Historical City Tour offers an affordable and authentic exploration of the city’s African heritage and Creole history.
- The City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour allows flexible, self-paced exploration of top attractions like the French Quarter and National WWII Museum.
- Helicopter Tours provide thrilling 15-mile aerial views of the city’s landmarks, while Private City Tours with local guides offer immersive, customized experiences.
- The Full-Day Plantation and Hurricane Katrina Tour combines visits to historic Oak Alley Plantation and Katrina-affected areas, providing a comprehensive understanding of the region’s history and resilience.
Three-Hour City Tour of New Orleans by Minibus
The Three-Hour City Tour of New Orleans by Minibus offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods.
Operated by Southern Style Tours and Transportation, this highly-rated tour provides an immersive experience with a maximum of 30 travelers.
Highlights include visits to the French Quarter, Treme, Esplanade, Garden District, and Metairie Cemetery, all while enjoying live commentary from a professional guide.
Guests appreciate the knowledgeable and friendly staff, particularly the personal stories and flexibility of the tour.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned comfort, and a badge of excellence, this three-hour minibus tour is an excellent way to discover the rich history and culture of New Orleans.
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New Orleans: Urban Cultural and Historical City Tour
One of the most immersive ways to discover the rich cultural and historical tapestry of New Orleans is through the 2.5-hour Urban Cultural and Historical City Tour. Priced from $55 per person, this English-language tour takes visitors on an exploration of the city’s African heritage, including iconic sites like Congo Square and the Lower Ninth Ward.
With knowledgeable guides, you will explore Creole history, civil rights, and the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Travelers consistently praise the tour’s authenticity and the depth of insights provided.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this cultural experience is a must for anyone seeking to uncover New Orleans’ vibrant African American legacy.
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New Orleans City and Cemetery Tour
Exploring the rich history and diverse culture of New Orleans, the New Orleans Sightseeing City Tour takes visitors on a comprehensive 2.5-hour journey through the city’s iconic landmarks and neighborhoods.
Highlights include stops at Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, and the Treme and Ninth Ward communities. Travelers can also explore the unique burial practices at St. Louis Cemetery No. 3.
The tour includes an optional break for beignets and coffee at City Park, as well as a pass through the Garden District to see sights like Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 and the Buckner Mansion.
With knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation, this tour offers an excellent overview of New Orleans’ history and culture.
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New Orleans: 2.5-Hour City & Cemetery Tour by Bus
Visitors to New Orleans can discover the city’s captivating history and diverse cultural heritage on the comprehensive 2.5-hour New Orleans: City & Cemetery Tour by Bus.
The tour includes pickup and drop-off at major hotels, a guided exploration of historic neighborhoods, and a 20-minute photo stop at the renowned St. Louis Cemetery Number 3.
Along the way, guests will see iconic sights like the St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square. The knowledgeable, English-speaking guide provides insight into the city’s unique burial practices and 300-year-old history.
With comfortable transportation and flexibility to reserve and pay later, this tour offers an engaging and convenient way to experience the best of New Orleans.
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New Orleans City and Cemetery 2-Hour Bus Tour
The New Orleans City and Cemetery 2-Hour Bus Tour provides a rundown of the city’s captivating history and diverse cultural heritage. Boasting an impressive 4.5-star rating from over 1,700 reviews, this tour offers an air-conditioned, comfortable experience with live commentary from a licensed guide.
Traversing the French Quarter, Garden District, Treme, and 9th Ward, it showcases the city’s architectural gems and storied past. Highlights include a walking tour of a historic cemetery and stops for world-famous beignets.
Ideal for first-time visitors, the tour delivers exceptional value, with hotel pickup, gratuities, and cancellation flexibility included. Though some reviewers note occasional guide quality issues, overall, it’s a highly recommended way to explore New Orleans beyond Bourbon Street.
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New Orleans: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
One of the most convenient ways to see the highlights of New Orleans is the City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour.
This 1.5-hour tour allows visitors to explore the city at their own pace, hopping on and off the bus at any of the 18 stops along the route.
With 2-day and 3-day ticket options, travellers can conveniently visit landmarks like the French Quarter, National WWII Museum, and Garden District.
The tour is highly rated, with 4.5 stars from 171 reviews, and is priced at €48.26.
This flexible sightseeing option is perfect for getting an overview of New Orleans’ top attractions.
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New Orleans Small-Group City Tour by Van
Celebration Tours’ New Orleans Small-Group City Tour by Van offers visitors an immersive and personalized exploration of the Crescent City. This highly-rated tour boasts 95% traveler recommendation, a Badge of Excellence, and 930 glowing reviews.
With a maximum group size of just 10 travelers, the experience provides a more intimate and engaging atmosphere. Knowledgeable local guides share personal stories and insights, bringing the city’s rich history and culture to life.
Highlights include visits to famous landmarks, with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. While some travelers noted van comfort and odor concerns, the vast majority praised the tour’s informative storytelling and overall experience.
Ideal for first-time visitors and those with mobility needs, this tour is considered one of the best introductions to New Orleans.
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New Orleans: Guided City Sightseeing Tour by Bus
Embarking on a comprehensive New Orleans city tour, the New Orleans: City and Cemetery Bus Tour Garden District Walk provides an immersive exploration of the Crescent City’s iconic landmarks and neighborhoods.
Priced at $55 per person, this 3-hour tour showcases the French Quarter, historic cemeteries, the stunning City Park, and the elegant Garden District.
With an English-speaking guide, guests will traverse over 25 square miles, including a visit to the renowned St. Louis Cemetery #3.
The tour also offers a break in City Park, allowing visitors to savor local delicacies and soak in the atmosphere among the ancient oak trees.
A highlight is the guided Garden District stroll, where travelers can admire the area’s grand mansions, churches, and universities.
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New Orleans Heart of the City Small-Group Bike Tour
Exploring the vibrant heart of New Orleans, the New Orleans Heart of the City Bicycle Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to discover the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, the 3-hour small-group tour takes cyclists through various neighborhoods, providing rich historical and cultural insights.
Travelers can expect a safe and enjoyable cycling experience, with stops at local coffee shops for refreshments.
Consistently rated as an excellent tour, the experience is praised for its informative guides, engaging storytelling, and the chance to explore off-the-beaten-path areas.
With a maximum group size of 10, this tour is a must-do activity for those seeking an immersive and personalized exploration of New Orleans.
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New Orleans: City & Cemetery Tour by Air-Conditioned Minibus
For those seeking a rundown of New Orleans’ history, architecture, and culture, the New Orleans: City & Cemetery Tour by Air-Conditioned Minibus offers an engaging and informative experience.
The 3-hour tour covers top landmarks like the French Quarter, Jackson Square, and St. Louis Cathedral, as well as areas impacted by Hurricane Katrina. Guests will also visit a unique cemetery to learn about local burial practices.
With a knowledgeable guide, air-conditioned transportation, and an overall 4.7/5 rating from 272 reviews, this tour provides an excellent way to explore the heart of New Orleans.
The tour includes hotel pick-up/drop-off and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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New Orleans City and Cemetery Sightseeing Tour
Why settle for a surface-level introduction to New Orleans when the New Orleans City and Cemetery Sightseeing Tour promises a comprehensive and immersive experience?
Operated by the trusted Cajun Encounters Tour Co., this highly-rated tour provides a deep dive into the city’s rich history, architecture, and culture.
With a maximum of 35 travelers, you’ll enjoy personalized attention from a knowledgeable local guide as you explore the French Quarter, Tremé neighborhood, and the renowned St. Louis Cemetery No. 3.
The tour’s flexibility, with morning, midday, and afternoon departures, makes it easy to fit into your schedule.
Boasting a 94% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this sightseeing adventure is a must for first-time visitors and seasoned New Orleans fans alike.
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New Orleans: Oak Alley Plantation and Katrina City Tour
Travelers seeking a comprehensive exploration of Creole history and the resilience of New Orleans can embark on the New Orleans: Oak Alley Plantation and Katrina City Tour.
This full-day guided tour takes visitors to the historic Oak Alley Plantation and affected areas of the city impacted by Hurricane Katrina. The tour includes scenic bus views, a boat cruise, and the chance to observe wildlife.
Priced from $120 per person, the tour provides pickup and drop-off at a variety of New Orleans hotels and lasts approximately 8.5 hours.
Flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance make this tour an easy and convenient way to discover the rich culture and resilience of New Orleans.
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New Orleans City and Cemetery Bus Tour
A popular option for those seeking a rundown of New Orleans’ history and landmarks is the New Orleans City and Cemetery Bus Tour.
With a 4.5-star rating and a 94% recommendation rate, this bus tour provides an informative and enjoyable experience.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable, humorous, and friendly guides, who offer in-depth insights into the city’s rich history.
The tour includes pickup from most French Quarter and Business District hotels, and covers key sights like the historic cemeteries.
While some guests would prefer more opportunities to disembark for photos, the overall feedback is positive, making this tour an excellent choice for first-time visitors to New Orleans.
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New Orleans: Airboat Swamp & City and Katrina Tour Combo
This combination tour provides visitors with a comprehensive experience of New Orleans. For $132.47 per person, guests embark on a 7.5-hour adventure that includes a guided city tour, a visit to Katrina-affected sites, and an exhilarating airboat swamp ride.
The tour offers flexibility, with 205 pickup and drop-off locations and a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can expect a live guided tour with a small group option, exploring the city’s history and culture, as well as the natural beauty of the surrounding swamps.
This tour offers an excellent opportunity to experience the diverse facets of New Orleans in a single day.
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Nola Historical Urban Culture City Tour
For those seeking to enjoy the rich history, captivating culture, and resilient spirit of New Orleans, the Nola Historical Urban Culture City Tour offers an unparalleled experience.
With 309 reviews and a 97% traveler recommendation, this tour promises to discover the city’s traditions, landmarks, and the lasting impact of events like Hurricane Katrina.
Guests will explore neighborhoods like Treme and the Lower Ninth Ward, while learning about the city’s African American heritage.
The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, though some have noted issues with the cooling system.
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New Orleans: Traditional City and Estate Tour
Immerse oneself in the rich tapestry of New Orleans’ history and architecture on the Traditional City and Estate Tour. This 4-hour tour takes you through the French Quarter, French Market, and the city’s historic neighborhoods.
Explore above-ground tombs at St. Louis Cemetery #3, marvel at the grand mansions along Esplanade Avenue, and discover the natural beauty of City Park.
The tour also includes a visit to the Besthoff Sculpture Gardens and a look at the levee system along Lake Pontchartrain.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, a knowledgeable guide, and quality audio system, this tour provides an in-depth look at New Orleans’ iconic sights.
Customer reviews praise the guide and comfort, though some note the value could be better.
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New Orleans Helicopter City Tour
From the moment you lift off, the New Orleans Helicopter City Tour offers a captivating bird’s-eye perspective of the city’s iconic landmarks.
This 15-mile tour provides aerial views of Jackson Square, the French Quarter, City Park, and the mighty Mississippi River.
With a maximum of 3 passengers per flight, you’ll enjoy a personalized narrated tour from the pilot as you soar over the vibrant city.
The tour’s 99% recommendation rate and Badge of Excellence are a testament to its exceptional quality.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking for a unique experience, the New Orleans Helicopter City Tour is an unforgettable way to see the city from above.
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New Orleans: Private Guided City Tour
Travelers seeking a personalized exploration of New Orleans can embark on a private guided city tour that unlocks the city’s captivating history, diverse culture, and hidden gems.
Priced at €471.21 for up to 3 participants, the 5-hour tour offers a comfortable ride in a custom luxury conversion van, allowing for impromptu detours.
Led by local guide Glen Henley, the experience provides a comprehensive history lesson, insights into the French Quarter and Garden District, and the impact of the Civil War and Cajun/Creole influences.
Guests can enjoy various food stops, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
The tour’s flexible booking and cancellation policy ensure a hassle-free experience tailored to individual interests.
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New Orleans City and Swamp Full-Day Tour
This full-day tour combines an in-depth exploration of New Orleans’ captivating history and culture with a thrilling swamp adventure.
Travelers can choose between a swamp boat or airboat tour, both offering the chance to spot local wildlife like alligators.
The city tour provides engaging commentary on New Orleans’ past, while the swamp segment immerses guests in the region’s unique natural environment.
Though not suitable for all, the tour receives excellent reviews for its knowledgeable guides and exciting experiences.
With hotel pickup, transportation, and gratuities included, this comprehensive outing is an excellent way to discover the Big Easy’s highlights.
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New Orleans: Daytime City Helicopter Tour
The New Orleans: Daytime City Helicopter Tour offers visitors a unique aerial perspective of the Big Easy’s iconic landmarks. Priced at $159.78 per person, the tour provides either a 7-9 minute City Tour or an 18-22 minute City and Swamp Tour.
The City Tour covers key sights like Jackson Square, Bourbon Street, and the Superdome, while the extended tour adds in the swamps, an abandoned theme park, and views along the Mississippi River.
Passengers are weighed at check-in, with individual and group weight limits in place. Headsets, narration, and window seats ensure a safe and informative experience.
With an impressive 4.9/5 rating, this helicopter tour is a thrilling way to see New Orleans from above.
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Private New Orleans City Tour With Local Expert Guide
A private New Orleans city tour with a local expert guide offers visitors a comprehensive and immersive experience beyond the bustling French Quarter.
The tour explores diverse neighborhoods like Bywater and Bayou Saint John, providing insights into the city’s rich culture and history.
With a focus on off-the-beaten-path experiences, the tour is ideal for travelers seeking a unique perspective.
The private, customizable nature of the tour allows for a relaxed pace and flexibility to accommodate special requests.
Highly rated for its knowledgeable and engaging guides, the tour offers recommendations for local eateries and attractions.
At $155 per person, the tour provides a great value with a lowest price guarantee and generous cancellation/rescheduling policies.
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New Orleans City Walking Tour
Exploring the vibrant heart of New Orleans, the Highlights of the French Quarter Walking Tour offers visitors an immersive journey through the city’s storied past and present.
Priced at Kč 5,818 for a group of up to 12 participants, this 2-hour guided walking tour showcases the French Quarter’s top attractions, including Jackson Square, Bourbon Street, and the French Market.
Along the way, the local English-speaking guide shares insights into New Orleans’ cultural melting pot and its connections to jazz music.
With a flexible cancellation policy and no upfront payment required, this tour provides a hassle-free way to experience the best of New Orleans on foot.
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New Orleans Small-Group City and Cemetery Tour
Visitors exploring New Orleans can enjoy the city’s rich history and vibrant culture through the New Orleans Small-Group City and Cemetery Tour.
This 4-hour tour, with a maximum of 12 travelers, provides a rundown of the city’s highlights. The tour includes a guided visit to St. Louis Cemetery No. 3, New Orleans City Park, and the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden.
Passengers travel by air-conditioned van and are picked up and dropped off at their hotel, Bed & Breakfast, or select Airbnbs in central New Orleans.
With a 91% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this small-group tour offers an engaging and personal experience for visitors.
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New Orleans City Driving Tour
For those eager to discover New Orleans’ iconic landmarks and neighborhoods from the comfort of a vehicle, the New Orleans City Driving Tour offers a captivating experience.
This 2.5-hour sightseeing bus tour ($55.00) allows visitors to admire the city’s highlights, including the French Quarter, the Garden District, and the historic Cemeteries.
With a knowledgeable guide providing insightful commentary, travelers can learn about the city’s rich history and culture along the way.
Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars, this tour is a convenient and comprehensive way to get an overview of New Orleans’ most fascinating attractions without the hassle of navigating the streets on foot.
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Oak Alley Plantation and New Orleans City Tour
This comprehensive Oak Alley Plantation and New Orleans City Tour offers travelers a unique opportunity to experience the iconic landmarks and rich history of the region.
Departing from New Orleans hotels, the tour combines a city exploration with a visit to the stunning Oak Alley Plantation. Visitors will explore the French Quarter, Garden District, Ninth Ward, and City Park, learning about local history from knowledgeable guides.
At the plantation, they’ll admire the stunning architecture, oak-lined esplanades, and sugar cane fields.
With morning and afternoon start times, roundtrip transportation, and a maximum of 14 travelers, this tour provides a well-rounded introduction to the charms of New Orleans and its surrounding area.
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Recap
New Orleans offers a variety of city tours, from minibus tours to walking tours, that allow visitors to explore the city’s rich history, culture, and architecture. Whether you’re interested in a rundown or a more focused experience, there’s a tour option to suit your interests and schedule. These tours provide an excellent way to make the most of your time in the vibrant and dynamic city of New Orleans.