Arriving and Settling
To fully immerse yourself in the New Orleans experience, consider arriving on Thursday evening and departing on Monday morning, allowing for three packed
days of exploration. Upon arrival at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, a taxi ride to the city center takes around 25 minutes and costs a flat rate of US$36. Rideshares provide a slightly better deal for larger groups, costing approximately US$50. Packing essentials include sturdy shoes for navigating the cobblestone streets of the French Quarter and lightweight layers for the humid summer months, along with a rain jacket. While the city embraces a relaxed dress code, some upscale restaurants require jackets for men. For dining out, a collared shirt is generally expected.
Friday: French Quarter Delights
Begin your NOLA adventure in the French Quarter, a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood, where the heart of the city beats. You'll also explore Tremé and Marigny. These areas offer a peek into the authentic New Orleans. The French Quarter is dotted with hotels, ranging from budget-friendly options starting from US$130 to historic accommodations from US$100 and posh hotels from US$360. Consider exploring beyond the French Quarter to experience the architecture and welcoming spirit of neighborhoods like the Garden District, with charming B&Bs starting from US$100. The streetcar is a delightful, albeit slow, way to travel between neighborhoods. A ride on the St. Charles Ave line, connecting Canal St with Uptown, is highly recommended.
Saturday: Mid-City Charm
Saturday is reserved for exploring Mid-City and the Bywater, each offering its own unique flavor. Mid-City is another opportunity to dive deeper into the local scene. Each neighborhood holds its own unique characteristics. The St. Charles Ave streetcar is a great method to access Uptown from Canal St. While food is a huge element of the experience, the itinerary gives you the perfect overview to enjoy the city’s culinary culture without having to worry too much about the aftermath. New Orleans is known for its legendary food scene, though fully tasting your way across the city would take years.
Sunday: Districts and More
On Sunday, dive into the Warehouse District, the Garden District, and Uptown, each offering distinct experiences. The good times never stop rolling in this city, a top destination for a weekend getaway. Hotels pack the French Quarter with options from budget (from US$130) to the historic (from US$100) to the posh (from US$360). For a more local experience, try charming B&Bs in the Garden District (from US$100), Mid-City (from US$150), or Tremé-Lafitte (from $129).
