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First-timer highlights

3 Days in New Orleans — First-Timer Highlights

highlights city-break new-orleans french-quarter jazz
Length
3 days
Stops
15
Destination
Dates
Guests 1 room, 1 adults, 0 children
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What this plan covers

This itinerary is designed for first-time visitors eager to soak in the iconic sights, sounds, and tastes of New Orleans. From the historic French Quarter to the elegant Garden District, you'll discover the city's unique blend of culture, music, and culinary delights. Perfect for those looking for a comprehensive introduction to NOLA's essential experiences.

Food 3 Sightseeing 1 Activity 3 Nightlife 2 Getting around 1 Culture 3 Shopping 2

Opening hours, prices and routes can change, so check the details before you set off.

Day 1 5 stops · about 6.5 hrs
1

Cafe Du Monde

Food 1 hour

Indulge in the iconic beignets and café au lait at this historic open-air coffee stand, a quintessential New Orleans breakfast experience.

Good to know

Arrive early to avoid long lines, especially on weekends; cash is traditionally preferred but cards are accepted.

2

Jackson Square & St. Louis Cathedral

Sightseeing 1.5 hours

Immerse yourself in the heart of the French Quarter, admiring the stunning architecture of the cathedral and the vibrant artist community surrounding the square.

Good to know

Walk around the square, enjoy street performers, and consider a brief, respectful visit inside the cathedral when open.

3

French Quarter Exploration (Royal Street & Bourbon Street)

Activity 2 hours

Wander through the historic streets, admiring iron-laced balconies, browsing antique shops on Royal Street, and experiencing the lively atmosphere of Bourbon Street.

Good to know

Explore Royal Street for unique boutiques and art galleries during the day, then experience Bourbon Street's energy later in the evening.

4

Central Grocery Co.

Food 1 hour

Savor an authentic muffuletta sandwich from its birthplace, a delicious and unique culinary staple of New Orleans.

Good to know

This is a grab-and-go spot; consider taking your sandwich to a nearby park or bench to enjoy.

5

Preservation Hall

Nightlife 1 hour

Experience an intimate, traditional New Orleans jazz performance in a historic venue dedicated to preserving the art form.

Good to know

Shows are popular and seating is limited; arrive well in advance of showtime or purchase tickets online for guaranteed entry.

Day 2 5 stops · about 9.5 hrs
6

St. Charles Streetcar

Getting around 1 hour

Enjoy a scenic and historic ride on the oldest continuously operating streetcar line in the world, offering views of grand mansions and oak-lined avenues.

Good to know

Purchase a Jazzy Pass for unlimited rides; board at Canal Street for the full experience towards the Garden District.

7

Garden District Walking Tour

Culture 2 hours

Discover the stunning antebellum mansions, lush gardens, and fascinating history of this elegant neighborhood with a guided or self-guided tour.

Good to know

Wear comfortable shoes for walking; many companies offer guided tours, or use a self-guided app to explore at your own pace.

8

Magazine Street Exploration

Shopping 2 hours

Browse unique boutiques, art galleries, and enjoy a casual lunch at one of the many diverse eateries along this vibrant, six-mile-long street.

Good to know

Focus on specific sections of the street (e.g., near Garden District) for a manageable visit; streetcar access is nearby.

9

Steamboat Natchez Cruise

Activity 2 hours

Experience the Mississippi River on an authentic paddlewheel steamboat, complete with live jazz and scenic views of the city skyline.

Good to know

Book tickets in advance, especially for dinner cruises; depart from the Toulouse Street Wharf in the French Quarter.

10

Frenchmen Street

Nightlife 2.5 hours

Immerse yourself in the authentic local music scene, hopping between clubs and bars featuring live jazz, blues, and funk.

Good to know

This area is best explored in the evening; many venues have small cover charges, and most accept cash.

Day 3 5 stops · about 9 hrs
11

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1

Culture 1.5 hours

Explore the oldest and most famous cemetery in New Orleans, home to the tomb of Marie Laveau and unique above-ground burial traditions.

Good to know

Entry is by guided tour only; book a tour in advance to gain access and learn about its rich history.

12

New Orleans Voodoo Museum

Culture 1 hour

Delve into the mysterious and fascinating world of New Orleans Voodoo, exploring its history, rituals, and cultural significance.

Good to know

Located in the French Quarter, it's a small but informative museum; combine with a cemetery visit for a deeper cultural dive.

13

French Market

Shopping 2 hours

Wander through America's oldest public market, offering everything from local produce and crafts to souvenirs and delicious food stalls.

Good to know

Great for souvenir shopping and trying various local snacks; open daily, with peak activity in the late morning and early afternoon.

14

Woldenberg Park / Audubon Aquarium of the Americas

Activity 2.5 hours

Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the Mississippi Riverfront in Woldenberg Park, or explore the diverse marine life at the Audubon Aquarium.

Good to know

The park is free and offers great river views; the aquarium requires paid admission and can be busy, so consider booking tickets online.

15

Classic Creole/Cajun Dinner

Food 2 hours

Conclude your trip with an unforgettable culinary experience, savoring traditional Creole or Cajun dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, or étouffée.

Good to know

New Orleans boasts many renowned restaurants; research and make reservations in advance for popular establishments.

Where to stay

Hotels in New Orleans

Book direct on our own New Orleans hotel pages — no booking fee and instant confirmation.

Things to book

Tours and activities in New Orleans

Guided tours, day trips and tickets to book alongside your stay.

Keep planning

More New Orleans itineraries

Other ways to spend a few days in New Orleans, from our own travel research.

Back to the New Orleans guide
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