New Orleans is a magical city, with jazz spilling out on to the streets, the smell of mouth-watering creole drifting through the air and it hosts the best street party on earth.

1 / 5

New Orleans French Quarter

2 / 5

New Orleans Jackson Sq

3 / 5

New Orleans Mississippi River

4 / 5

New Orleans Paddle Steamer

5 / 5

New Orleans French Quarter

Description

The French Quarter with is quirky architecture is packed with lovely hotels and bustling bars, and is the best place to explore to truly experience New Orleans. Sights not to miss include The St Louis Cathedral which is the oldest cathedral in North America and forms the centrepiece to the French Quarter, and the Cabildo which was originally built as the seat of the Spanish government.

For a more authentic district away from the tourists, head to Frenchman Street with its live music bars, restaurants and nightclubs popular with the locals. No neon lights in this part of town, just a mix of great music, ranging from jazz and Latino to blues and reggae, superb local food and affordable prices.

For a journey in to the past head to the National WWII Museum. With interactive areas and interesting stories from the war, this is one that is not to be missed. New Orleans Park is also a lovely spot to take in some of the famous buildings and historic old world houses.

For something a little different, a Louisiana Swamp Tour makes for a great day trip, or how about a ghostly Cemetery Tour, delving in to New Orleans’s mysterious past. Also a trip on a steam boat down the Mississippi River makes for a great experience.

If you are lucky enough to be there during Mardi Gras, make sure you get involved as it is nicknamed the “Greatest Free Show On Earth”.