New Orleans is a city that practically demands to be explored in person. Known for its musical soul, colorful neighborhoods, and historic cemeteries, it offers a wealth of ways to experience its unique character. Unlike many urban destinations, New Orleans blends architecture, culture, and water, making every tour a chance to see something unexpected—whether it’s the grandeur of the Garden District or the haunting beauty of its cemeteries. With so many options, choosing the right tour can be daunting, but knowing what makes each one special helps make that decision easier.
In this guide, we’ll walk through 16 of the best city tours — from small-group van journeys to scenic helicopter flights and immersive cultural experiences. Each offers a different lens on the city’s story, and we’ll help you find the one that fits your interests and schedule best.
1. New Orleans Small-Group City Tour by Van
At number 1, this small-group van tour stands out for its intimate setting and diverse itinerary. Limited to 15 people or fewer, the tour combines architecture, history, and local culture in a compact three-hour adventure. Highlights include the French Quarter, Garden District, historic cemeteries, and City Park, with stops at key landmarks like the WWII Museum and Magazine Street. The small group access also means you’ll get closer to areas larger buses can’t reach, adding a personal touch. Reviewers praise Oz, the guide, for his wealth of stories and accommodating attitude, making this a top pick for those who want a relaxed, in-depth overview of the city. Expect a comfortable, air-conditioned ride with hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting an engaging, small-group experience that covers the city’s highlights with a knowledgeable guide.
2. New Orleans City and Cemetery Sightseeing Tour
Number 2 on our list is the City and Cemetery Sightseeing Tour, a 3-hour bus and walking adventure. This tour combines exterior views of Creole townhouses, voodoo legends, and haunting mausoleums, including Marie Laveau’s tomb. You’ll visit St. Louis Cemetery No. 3, a maze of above-ground tombs that’s as atmospheric as the city itself. The guide brings history and culture to life with stories about New Orleans’ architecture and spiritual traditions. The tour is highly praised for its pacing and entertaining narration, with reviews mentioning how well it balances sights and storytelling. The inclusion of a walk in the cemetery provides a tangible connection to the city’s supernatural allure.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those fascinated by the city’s spooky side and interested in a mix of bus touring and cemetery exploration.
3. New Orleans City and Cemetery Tour with Garden District Stroll
At position 3, this comprehensive tour offers both a bus ride and a stroll through some of the city’s most famous neighborhoods. Over three hours, you’ll explore the French Quarter, Garden District, and St. Charles Avenue, with a visit to St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 included. The guided commentary covers the city’s architecture, notable residents, and unique burial practices. For a small extra fee, you can upgrade to include access to Vue Orleans for sweeping city views from a 360° observatory. This tour balances sightseeing with educational narration, making it ideal for first-time visitors seeking a well-rounded experience.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a thorough overview of New Orleans’ neighborhoods, architecture, and above-ground cemeteries.
4. New Orleans: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Number 4 brings you the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, a flexible, one-day ticket to explore at your own pace. It covers the core attractions like the French Market, Mercedes-Benz Superdome, and City Park, with multiple stops along the route. The open-top double-decker design lets you enjoy panoramic views, and the live commentary provides insights into New Orleans’ history and culture. Reviewers particularly appreciate the ease of hopping on and off, making it simple to customize your visit. Since it runs all day, this is a relaxed way for travelers with limited time to get a broad picture of the city.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who prefer a flexible, easy way to see the main sights without the pressure of a guided tour.
5. New Orleans: City & Cemetery Tour with Air-Conditioned Minibus
Number 5 offers a 3-hour private minibus tour that blends storytelling with comfort. This guided experience covers the French Quarter, Jackson Square, and historic cemeteries, including the impact of Hurricane Katrina. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a cool tour in the warmer months, and the licensed guide shares deep insights into New Orleans’ culture, recovery, and iconic landmarks. Reviewers rave about Darin’s enthusiasm and knowledge, making it a solid choice for groups or travelers wanting a personalized experience. It’s a good value considering the privacy and tailored itinerary.
Bottom Line: Best for those prioritizing comfort and a personalized tour experience with deep cultural insights.
6. New Orleans: 2-Hour 15-Minute City and Cemetery Tour by Bus
In sixth place, this shorter, more focused tour combines historic neighborhoods and a cemetery visit in just over two hours. It covers Treme, Esplanade Avenue, and St. Louis Cemetery No. 3, providing a quick yet thorough introduction to the city’s origins and cultural hotspots. Reviewers mention the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, along with the opportunity to see one of the largest parks in America. It’s perfect for travelers on a tight schedule who still want an authentic taste of New Orleans’ neighborhoods and history.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those seeking a compact, informative tour with a local guide’s perspective.
7. New Orleans City Lights Night Helicopter Tour
Number 7 features a night helicopter tour that transforms sightseeing into a breath-taking experience. Flies over Jackson Square, the Superdome, and the French Quarter, all illuminated against the night sky. This 10–20 minute flight offers a quiet, panoramic view of the city’s lit-up skyline without the crowds. The onboard window seats and noise-canceling headphones make it easy to take in the sights comfortably. Reviewers highlight the pilot’s professionalism and the “amazing” night views, making this a memorable option for a special occasion or evening activity.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a romantic or unique view of New Orleans by night.
8. New Orleans: Daytime City Helicopter Tour
Coming in at 8, the Daytime Helicopter Tour offers similar aerial views during the day. You’ll see landmarks like Jackson Square, City Park, and the Mississippi River, with options for a city-only or combined swamp and city tour. With every seat being a window seat, the experience is inclusive and immersive. The pilot shares facts about the city’s architecture and geography, adding educational value to the flight. Reviewers mention the smooth, memorable experience and “friendly staff,” emphasizing the tour’s high quality.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a scenic aerial overview with the flexibility of choosing between city or swamp views.
9. New Orleans City Tour and Steamboat Natchez Harbor Jazz Cruise
Number 9 combines a comprehensive city tour with a relaxing jazz cruise aboard the Steamboat NATCHEZ. Starting with a narrated coach ride, you’ll explore landmarks like Jackson Square and the Garden District. Then, board the steamboat for a lively two-hour cruise along the Mississippi, featuring live jazz and optional Creole cuisine. The 6.5-hour experience is ideal for those wanting a full day of sights, sounds, and river views. Reviewers note the boat’s “great atmosphere” and the informative tour that makes the entire day worthwhile.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a combined land-and-river experience that captures the essence of New Orleans.
10. Private City Tour in New Orleans
For travelers seeking tailored experiences, the Private City Tour offers undivided attention. Up to 10 people can enjoy a 3-hour custom tour with a private guide, covering neighborhoods like the French Quarter, Garden District, and the 9th Ward. The tour includes landmarks such as Jackson Square and Lake Pontchartrain, with flexible start times and hotel pickup. Reviewers appreciate the personalized attention and flexibility, making this an excellent choice for special occasions or families.
Bottom Line: Best suited for groups wanting a customized, private tour that focuses on their specific interests.
11. New Orleans Driving Tour of Bayou St. John, City Park, Treme etc
Number 11 is a driving tour that takes you beyond the usual tourist spots. Led by Brian, it covers historic Treme, Bayou St. John, and City Park, with stops at an old cemetery and scenic neighborhoods. Reviewers praise his enthusiasm and deep knowledge of local history, which makes the trip engaging and authentic. It’s a good fit for travelers who prefer to sit back while still seeing a variety of less-visited neighborhoods and natural sites.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those interested in local history and nature, with a guide who knows the city inside out.
12. Oak Alley Plantation and New Orleans City Tour
Number 12 combines a city tour with a visit to the famous Oak Alley Plantation. Starting with the French Quarter, Garden District, and City Park, it transitions to the plantation’s stunning oak-lined avenue and historic buildings. It’s a full-day experience, with a focus on antebellum architecture and history. Reviewers note that the plantation’s gardens and main house are well maintained, though some mention the route along I-10 is bumpy. This tour is perfect for history lovers wanting both the city and plantation experience on one day.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers interested in Southern architecture and plantation history, and willing to spend a longer day exploring.
13. Whitney Plantation + Soul of New Orleans City Tour Combo
Number 13 offers an immersive combo focusing on African American history and culture. Visiting Whitney Plantation, the only museum dedicated to slavery experiences in Louisiana, provides a sobering look at the brutal history of slavery. After a lunch break, the tour continues to explore musical, cultural, and civil rights landmarks in New Orleans. This 8–9 hour day appeals to those seeking a profound understanding of the city’s difficult past and resilient spirit. Reviewers highlight the powerful exhibits and the depth of insight provided.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history-minded travelers ready for a serious and emotional look at slavery and civil rights in Louisiana.
14. New Orleans Half Day City Driving Tour
This half-day private driving tour gives you a focused introduction to key neighborhoods like Jackson Square, French Market, and Louis Armstrong Park. It’s perfect for travelers who want a quick but rundown, with short stops for photos and sightseeing. Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guide and the convenience of a private vehicle, allowing flexibility for personalized stops. It suits those with limited time but still makes sure to hit the highlights of historic and cultural sites.
Bottom Line: Best for time-conscious visitors who want a private, flexible introduction to New Orleans.
15. Nola Culture City / Music & Celebrities Combo Tour with Bar stop
Number 15 is a culture and celebrity-focused tour that combines music history, neighborhood visits, and celebrity homes. Starting with the birthplace of jazz and the homes of icons like Lil Wayne, Tyler Perry, and Mahalia Jackson, it highlights the city’s musical roots and pop culture. Stops include Studio BE, the Hurricane Katrina aftermath, and famous neighborhoods. Reviewers love the lively guide and the chance to see famous residences and landmarks linked to music and entertainment. It’s perfect for those wanting a lively, culturally rich experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for music lovers and pop culture fans wanting a lively day with celebrity sights.
16. New Orleans City and Swamp Helicopter Tour
Last but not least, the City and Swamp Helicopter Tour combines aerial views of urban landmarks and Louisiana’s famous swamp landscapes. Over about 18-22 minutes, you’ll see the Superdome, Jackson Square, and the Mississippi River, then venture into the bayou for wild scenery and wildlife. The private flight ensures a personalized experience, making it excellent for birthdays or anniversaries. Reviewers mention how professional and friendly the staff are, and how the experience offers a truly “unforgettable” perspective on the area.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a combination of city highlights and Louisiana’s natural beauty from above.
How to Choose the Right Tour in New Orleans
When selecting your tour, consider your interests, schedule, and budget. For a quick overview with flexibility, the hop-on hop-off bus offers unmatched convenience. If you’re captivated by history and cemeteries, the small-group van tour or city and cemetery tour with garden stroll are excellent choices. For a luxurious experience, the helicopter tours provide unforgettable aerial views. Cultural explorers should consider the combo tours or celebrity and music experiences. Booking early, especially for helicopter rides and small-group tours, ensures you secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re after a quick orientation, an in-depth historical journey, or a spectacular aerial view, New Orleans offers a diverse selection of tours to fit your style. For those seeking a personalized experience, the private and small-group options shine, while the helicopter rides are perfect for a memorable splurge. If your time is limited, the hop-on hop-off bus offers maximum flexibility.
For a deeper understanding of the city’s complex history and culture, consider the Whitney Plantation or the combo tours. Whichever you choose, booking in advance guarantees you’ll make the most of your visit to this unique American city.