How many days do you need in New Orleans, LA?

This itinerary covers 5 days in New Orleans, LA, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for New Orleans, LA?

Plan your perfect 5 days trip to New Orleans, LA. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

5-Day New Orleans Adventure

Viewed by 68 travelers

Day 1: French Quarter Exploration

New Orleans, LA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Du Monde

Start your day with delicious beignets and cafe au lait at the iconic Cafe Du Monde.

$10, 1 hour

10:00AM

Stroll through Jackson Square

Enjoy the vibrant street performances and shop for local art in this historic square.

Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Brennan's Restaurant

Indulge in a classic Creole lunch featuring dishes like turtle soup and seafood gumbo.

$30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the French Market

Explore the bustling market for unique souvenirs, local snacks, and handmade crafts.

$20, 2 hours

5:00PM

Cultural Tour at the Presbytere Museum

Learn about the history and culture of New Orleans, including Mardi Gras traditions.

$15, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Commander's Palace

Experience a fine dining experience with classic Louisiana cuisine in an elegant setting.

$50, 2 hours

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Day 2: Garden District Delights

New Orleans, LA

9:00AM

Breakfast at Surrey's Cafe & Juice Bar

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at this local favorite known for its delicious juices and coffee.

$15, 1 hour

11:00AM

Walking Tour of the Garden District

Admire the historic mansions and lush gardens on a guided walking tour of this picturesque neighborhood.

$25, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Columns Hotel

Savor a meal on the iconic front porch of this historic hotel while enjoying views of St. Charles Avenue.

$20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Shop on Magazine Street

Browse the unique boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops along this bustling street.

$50, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner and Jazz on Frenchmen Street

Immerse yourself in the vibrant music scene of New Orleans with live jazz performances while enjoying a Cajun dinner.

$40, 3 hours

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Day 3: Swamp Adventure

New Orleans, LA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Daisy Dukes

Grab a hearty Southern breakfast at Daisy Dukes before heading out to the swamps.

$12, 1 hour

10:00AM

Swamp Tour with Cajun Encounters

Embark on a thrilling airboat or swamp tour to explore the unique ecosystem of the Louisiana swamps.

$60, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Mulate's

Enjoy authentic Cajun cuisine with live zydeco music at this popular restaurant.

$25, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Woldenberg Park

Unwind by the Mississippi River, watch the boats pass by, and enjoy the scenic views.

Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Cochon

Savor contemporary Southern cuisine with a creative twist at this trendy restaurant in the Warehouse District.

$35, 2 hours

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Day 4: City Park Relaxation

New Orleans, LA

9:00AM

Breakfast at Morning Call

Start your day with a traditional New Orleans breakfast of beignets and cafe au lait at this local favorite in City Park.

$10, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore City Park

Discover the beauty of City Park, featuring lush green spaces, the Botanical Garden, and the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden.

$15, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ralph's on the Park

Enjoy a sophisticated lunch overlooking the park at this upscale restaurant known for its contemporary Creole cuisine.

$40, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Boat Ride on Big Lake

Rent a paddleboat or kayak to explore Big Lake and relax on the tranquil waters of City Park.

$20, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Cafe Degas

Enjoy a taste of France in New Orleans with French bistro cuisine at this charming restaurant in Mid-City.

$30, 2 hours

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Day 5: Farewell to New Orleans

New Orleans, LA

10:00AM

Brunch at Elizabeth's Restaurant

Indulge in a unique Creole brunch experience with dishes like praline bacon and duck waffles.

$25, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Street Art Tour in the Bywater

Explore the vibrant street art scene in the colorful Bywater neighborhood with a self-guided walking tour.

Free, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the New Orleans Museum of Art

Immerse yourself in the world of art at this renowned museum located in City Park.

$20, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden

Stroll through the enchanting sculpture garden and admire the impressive collection of outdoor art pieces.

Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at GW Fins

End your New Orleans adventure with a seafood feast at this award-winning restaurant known for its fresh catch of the day.

$50, 2 hours

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Itinerary created by Plantrip Team June 7, 2024 AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Step 1 Outline Preview:

5-Day New Orleans Adventure

Day 1: French Quarter Exploration

8:00AM

10:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

7:00PM

Day 2: Garden District Delights

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 3: Swamp Adventure

8:00AM

10:00AM

2:00PM

4:00PM

6:00PM

Day 4: City Park Relaxation

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

5:00PM

Day 5: Farewell to New Orleans

10:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

6:00PM

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