New Orleans is a city that invites exploration—and not just in the French Quarter. Its narrow streets, historic neighborhoods, and lively culture make it a perfect place for a variety of city tours. Whether you want an intimate look with a small-group van tour, a spooky cemetery visit, or a scenic helicopter ride, there’s something for every traveler. We especially love the small-group city tour by van, which combines history, architecture, and local stories in just three hours, all with hotel pickup included. It’s ideal for those seeking a relaxed yet rundown.
For those interested in the darker side of New Orleans, the City and Cemetery Sightseeing Tour offers a fascinating look at iconic cemeteries and historic landmarks. And if you’re looking for a truly unforgettable experience, the Helicopter City Tour provides spectacular aerial views of the city lights at night. These diverse options make New Orleans a city best appreciated through multiple perspectives.
1. New Orleans Small-Group City Tour by Van
This half-day tour offers a personalized way to experience the city’s architecture, neighborhoods, and history. With a small group of 15 or fewer, you’ll visit the French Quarter, Garden District, City Park, and even learn about Hurricane Katrina’s impact. The intimate size means your guide can access areas larger buses can’t, and you’ll enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off in the French Quarter or Central Business District.
Guests rave about Oz, the guide, who shares a wealth of knowledge and fun tidbits, making the 3-hour experience feel lively and engaging. Key highlights include the historic cemeteries, Magazine Street, and Tulane University. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, informative, and flexible overview of New Orleans without feeling rushed. The moderate price of $62 makes it great value, especially given the personalized service and access to hidden corners.
Bottom Line: For an immersive, small-group experience with local insight and comfort, this tour hits the spot.
2. New Orleans City and Cemetery Sightseeing Tour
This 2-hour tour combines bus and walking elements to reveal New Orleans’ most iconic cemeteries and neighborhoods. It takes you past Creole townhouses, shotgun homes, and Jackson Square, with a focus on the hauntingly beautiful mausoleums of St Louis Cemetery No. 3. Highlights include the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway and Marie Laveau’s legendary grave.
Rated highly, Derek’s commentary makes the history come alive, and guests appreciate that the tour covers multiple districts in just a few hours. The $62.57 price offers good value considering the depth of sights and stories packed into this brief window. It’s ideal for those who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and cemetery exploration without a full day commitment.
Bottom Line: This tour suits travelers looking to combine city sights with the mystique of New Orleans’ famous cemeteries.
3. Soul of New Orleans City Tour – Enslavement to Modern Day Culture
For those interested in deepening their understanding of New Orleans’ cultural roots, this 2.5-hour tour offers insights into neighborhoods like Treme, Congo Square, and the Sixth Ward. It explores themes from enslavement to jazz and civil rights, with stops in the Civil Rights Trail and the Lower Ninth Ward. Highlights include live music venues, murals at Studio Be, and stories about Hurricane Katrina’s aftermath.
Guide Jay’s storytelling makes this a thought-provoking experience, rated 5/5 by many. At just $55, it’s a cost-effective way to get a meaningful overview of the city’s complex history and vibrant culture. It’s perfect for those who want a guided experience that goes beyond surface-level sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers eager to connect with New Orleans’ deeper social and musical history.
4. New Orleans Heart of the City Bicycle Tour
Exploring beyond the French Quarter, this 3-hour bike tour takes you into neighborhoods like Faubourg Marigny and Bywater. You’ll see where Creole culture has left its mark and learn about the city’s multicultural origins. The tour includes stops at St. Roch Cemetery, famous for its above-ground tombs, and offers a fun, active way to cover ground.
Rated 5/5, guests praise the knowledgeable guide and the flexibility of a small group. The included bike and helmet make it an easy choice for active travelers, and bottled water keeps you refreshed. This is a great way to see more of the city’s lesser-visited areas and enjoy some fresh air while learning local lore.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want a personalized, in-depth look at New Orleans neighborhoods.
5. New Orleans City and Cemetery Tour with Garden District Stroll
This 3-hour bus tour is a rundown, taking in Jackson Square, the French Quarter, the Garden District, and St. Louis Cemetery No. 3. It’s a good option for those who want to see the city’s highlights comfortably from an air-conditioned coach. Visitors can also upgrade to access Vue Orleans for panoramic city views.
Guests comment on the knowledgeable guides and well-paced stops, with some noting the cemetery visit as a highlight. At $55, the tour is affordable for a full city overview, combining transportation and sightseeing efficiently. It suits travelers who prefer a guided, relaxed experience with some optional extras.
Bottom Line: Perfect for first-time visitors who want a broad but comfortable city introduction.
6. City Sightseeing New Orleans HOHO Bus Tour & Bookable Extras
This unlimited hop-on hop-off bus pass is flexible for 1 to 3 days, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. With live commentary, you can hop off at landmarks like the French Market or the Mercedes-Benz Superdome.
Rated 4.4/5, it’s ideal for travelers who want to customize their itinerary and explore independently. The open-top bus offers great views, and mobile or paper vouchers make booking straightforward. It’s perfect for those who prefer less structure but still want expert narration.
Bottom Line: Best for flexible travelers who plan to see many sights over multiple days.
7. New Orleans City/Cemetery and Swamp Full-Day Tour
This 7.5-hour full-day tour combines city highlights with a swamp adventure. You’ll visit famous cemeteries, including St. Louis Cemetery No. 3, and explore Cajun country—either via a boat ride or an airboat. It’s perfect for families or those wanting a comprehensive experience of both city and nature.
Rated 5/5, guests love the diversity of attractions, the knowledgeable guides, and the chance to see alligators on the swamp tour. For $110, it offers great value for a full day packed with history, culture, and wildlife.
Bottom Line: For those who want a full immersion into Louisiana’s natural and cultural landscape, this tour is unmatched.
8. New Orleans Helicopter City Tour
Taking to the skies, this 7-9 minute helicopter ride offers breathtaking views of Jackson Square, the French Quarter, and City Park. The ultra-small group of just three passengers makes it an intimate, personalized experience.
Rated 5/5, guests mention the “breathtaking views” and “amazing service” with many noting it as a highlight of their trip. At $114, it’s a higher-end but unforgettable way to see New Orleans from above, especially at sunset or night.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a special, scenic highlight that leaves a lasting impression.
9. NOLA’s BIG 4 PRIVATE CITY TOUR, NO GHOST, ONLY FACTS!
This private SUV tour covers four must-see areas: French Quarter, Garden District, Metairie Cemetery, and City Park. It’s a customized tour perfect for first-timers or travelers who want a personal, in-depth look at the city.
Rated 5/5, guests appreciate the tailored experience and the ability to explore neighborhoods at a comfortable pace. The $125 price reflects its exclusivity and flexibility, including insider tips on local restaurants and jazz clubs.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a private, personalized orientation to New Orleans.
10. New Orleans City Bike Tour
This 3.5-hour guided bike tour offers a relaxed way to see the city’s core neighborhoods, including the French Quarter, Garden District, and Royal Street. It includes stops at Jackson Square and Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, with plenty of local stories along the way.
Rated 5/5, riders praise the friendly guide and the ease of cycling through the city’s historic streets. The price of $60 makes it a good value for active travelers. It’s suited for those comfortable on a bike and eager for a more personal tour experience.
Bottom Line: Great for active explorers eager to see more of New Orleans without the crowds.
11. Private New Orleans City Tour with Local Expert Guide
Led by a passionate local, this 3-4 hour private tour visits landmarks like the French Quarter, Bywater, and Bayou Saint John. It’s highly customizable, allowing you to explore neighborhoods that often go unnoticed.
Rated 5/5, travelers love the personal touch and insider knowledge. The $155 cost is justified by the tailored experience and expert storytelling. It’s perfect for visitors wanting a deep dive into authentic New Orleans.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking an in-depth, personalized introduction with a local flavor.
12. New Orleans: City & Cemetery Tour by Air-Conditioned Minibus
This 3-hour tour provides a comfortable way to see the city’s top sights and visit a historic cemetery. The air-conditioned minibus ensures a cool ride while your guide shares stories about Hurricane Katrina and local culture.
Guest reviews mention the seamless transfer and engaging commentary, making it a well-rounded option for all ages. It offers solid value at $55, especially for those who prefer a relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers who want a comfortable, informative city overview with cemetery access.
13. New Orleans: 2-Hour 15-Minute City and Cemetery Tour by Bus
This shorter, 2-hour tour explores the city’s most historic neighborhoods, with a focus on St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 and City Park. It’s perfect for those on a tight schedule who want highlights without a full day commitment.
Rated 4.7/5, it’s praised for its efficient route and knowledgeable guide. For $45, it offers good value and a quick yet meaningful look at New Orleans.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers with limited time who still want a taste of the city’s history.
14. New Orleans: City & Cemetery Bus Tour
This 2.15-hour tour covers many neighborhoods, with two cemetery stops and stories about voodoo, pirates, and urban legends. It’s a friendly, small-group experience rated 4.5/5, with hotel pickup included.
Guests appreciate the insider tips and the chance to explore both the city and its cemeteries in a compact format. At $54.98, it’s a good value for those wanting a guided, rundown.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers who want a well-rounded, compact city and cemetery experience.
15. New Orleans: City & Cemetery Tour + Garden District Stroll
This 3-hour tour combines city highlights, a cemetery visit, and a stroll through the Garden District. It’s an excellent choice for seeing 25 miles of neighborhood streets, including Jackson Square, Lafayette Cemetery, and City Park.
Rated 4.7/5, guests value the balanced mix of walking, sightseeing, and expert commentary. It’s great for those who want to explore at a relaxed pace with plenty of free time to soak in the scenery.
Bottom Line: Fits travelers who want an active, immersive experience of New Orleans’ key districts.
16. New Orleans City Lights Night Helicopter Tour
This 10-20 minute helicopter flight offers a stunning view of the city’s illuminated landmarks like Jackson Square and the Superdome. The night tour’s quiet skies make for a magical experience, especially with a window seat and noise-canceling headphones.
Rated 5/5, travelers describe it as “amazing” and “one of the best excursions,” making it a special way to cap off your trip. The $152.22 price is high but justified for the unforgettable night views.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a romantic or memorable night experience.
How to Choose the Perfect Tour
When selecting your ideal New Orleans tour, consider your budget, interests, and schedule. If you love personalized experiences, the Small-Group Van Tour or Private City Tour will suit well. For a full-day adventure that combines city sights and the bayou, the Cemetery and Swamp Tour offers excellent value.
Interested in a bird’s-eye view? The Helicopter Tour provides breathtaking sights, especially at sunset or night. For more flexibility, the HOHO Bus lets you explore at your own pace over multiple days.
Consider your fitness level—bike tours like the Heart of the City Bicycle Tour are perfect for active explorers, while those preferring comfort might opt for the City & Cemetery Bus Tours.
To sum it up, New Orleans offers a diverse array of tours, from intimate van-guided excursions and private city adventures to scenic helicopter flights and lively hop-on-hop-off buses. For first-timers, a combination of guided tours like the small-group van tour or the comprehensive city and cemetery tour can set a solid foundation. For those craving a special experience, the helicopter ride or full-day swamp tour deliver unforgettable memories.
No matter your style or schedule, booking early is advisable, especially for popular options like helicopter flights or private tours. Now’s the time to plan your trip—New Orleans waits with open arms and plenty of stories.