5-day itinerary

The Perfect 5 Days in New Orleans

A balanced 5-day plan for New Orleans, built around its top-rated sights so each day flows without backtracking — plus a bite to eat along the way. Like it? Make it your own in a couple of taps.

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Day 1The Big Highlights

  1. Morning

    Cathedral-Basilica of Saint Louis King of France

    The oldest continuously operating cathedral in the US, gracing Jackson Square with timeless French Quarter charm.

  2. Afternoon

    The Cabildo

    Where the Louisiana Purchase was signed—step inside centuries of New Orleans' most dramatic history.

  3. Evening

    Jackson Square

    Iconic park framed by the French Quarter's grandest cathedral, alive with artists and street performers daily.

Where to eat: Brennan's RestaurantRegional — a well-loved local spot.

Day 2Culture & Icons

  1. Morning

    Andrew Jackson

    A bold equestrian bronze of President Jackson stands proudly in the heart of New Orleans.

  2. Afternoon

    Central Grocery

    Birthplace of the muffuletta sandwich, this iconic deli is a must-visit New Orleans institution.

  3. Evening

    Preservation Hall

    Experience the soul of New Orleans jazz in this legendary, intimate French Quarter music hall.

Where to eat: Napoleon HouseCajun — a well-loved local spot.

Day 3Culture & Icons

  1. Morning

    French Quarter

    Wander cobblestone streets lined with jazz, Creole cuisine, and centuries of vibrant New Orleans culture.

  2. Afternoon

    Congo Square

    Birthplace of jazz, where enslaved Africans once gathered to sing, dance, and preserve their culture.

  3. Evening

    Saint Louis Cemetery Number One

    New Orleans' oldest cemetery, filled with above-ground tombs, voodoo legends, and mysterious Creole history.

Where to eat: Camellia GrillA well-loved local spot.

Day 4Culture & Icons

  1. Morning

    Bourbon Street

    New Orleans' most iconic strip bursts with jazz, neon, and non-stop revelry every night.

  2. Afternoon

    Steamboat Natchez

    Glide along the mighty Mississippi aboard a genuine 19th-century steamboat with live jazz.

  3. Evening

    Confederate Memorial Hall;Confederate Memorial Hall Museum

    Explore one of America's oldest Civil War museums, housing rare Confederate artifacts and poignant wartime history.

Where to eat: Antoine's RestaurantLocal — a well-loved local spot.

Day 5Culture & Icons

  1. Morning

    The National World War II Museum

    Immerse yourself in America's most comprehensive World War II museum, honoring sacrifice through powerful exhibits and artifacts.

  2. Afternoon

    Marigny Opera House

    A stunning 19th-century church transformed into an eclectic hub for opera, dance, and live events.

  3. Evening

    City Park

    One of America's largest urban parks, bursting with art, gardens, and Southern charm in New Orleans.

Where to eat: Arnaud'sA well-loved local spot.

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See all 483 things to do in New Orleans

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Built from New Orleans's top-rated attractions. Opening hours, prices, and whether a spot still delivers can change — double-check anything time-sensitive before you go.