The New Orleans City Tour: Cemetery, French Quarter, Garden District offers a practical way to see many of the city’s highlights in just 4 hours for $40 per person. With hotel pickup and drop-off included, it provides a convenient and comfortable way to explore the French Quarter, Garden District, and one of the oldest cemeteries in New Orleans. The tour runs on a mobile ticket, making it easy to book in advance—most guests tend to reserve about three weeks beforehand.

The tour’s strength lies in its guided commentary and compact schedule, ideal for visitors who want a quick but informative overview of New Orleans. Although most of the experience takes place inside an air-conditioned coach, the two short stops—a 15-minute park visit and 10-minute cemetery tour—add some variety. The price point and round-trip hotel transfers make it a solid choice for first-time visitors eager to get a taste of NOLA.

Key Points

Four-hour guided city tour covering the French Quarter, Garden District, and cemetery
$40 per person, with hotel pickup and drop-off included
Live commentary from a licensed local guide enhances the experience
Two short stops: a park and St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 with admission included
Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
Most guests book about three weeks in advance

The Tour’s Main Attractions and Stops in New Orleans

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Inside the French Quarter: The Heart of the City

The tour begins with a guided drive through the French Quarter, the city’s most iconic neighborhood. Known for its historic buildings, vibrant streets, and lively atmosphere, the French Quarter offers a glimpse into New Orleans’ unique charm. The guide shares stories about iconic landmarks and the area’s history, making the drive both entertaining and educational.

Exploring the Garden District’s Architecture

Next, the guide leads the group through the Garden District, famed for its magnificent mansions and lush gardens. This neighborhood showcases the city’s residential elegance and Southern charm. The short stop here allows for quick photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the architecture, which many reviews highlight as a favorite part of the tour.

Visiting St. Louis Cemetery No. 3

The highlight of the cemetery visit is the guided tour of St. Louis Cemetery No. 3, one of the oldest cemeteries in New Orleans. The admission is included, and the 20-minute stop provides a look at the unique above-ground tombs and historic graveyards. The cemetery’s atmosphere and architecture are often praised, offering a tangible connection to the city’s creole burial traditions.

The Convenience of Hotel Transfers

A notable feature is the included hotel pickup and drop-off in Downtown New Orleans. This eliminates the hassle of finding a meeting point and ensures a smooth start and end to the experience. The small group size (up to 32 travelers) helps maintain a comfortable environment, allowing the guide to provide personalized commentary.

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The Guide: Knowledgeable and Entertaining

Multiple reviews emphasize the expertise and personality of the guide. Darren, in particular, receives high praise for being funny, knowledgeable, and engaging. Reviewers highlight that the guide shares anecdotes and stories that make the city’s history memorable. His accent and storytelling style add to the tour’s charm, making it more than just a sightseeing ride.

The Soundtrack and Atmosphere

Some reviews mention a fabulous soundtrack that is synchronized with the itinerary, creating a lively ambiance during the bus ride. The friendly driver adds to the overall positive impression, ensuring the group feels comfortable and well-informed.

Pacing and Duration

Most guests find the pace suitable for a short city overview. The 40-minute stops are brief but enough for photos and quick explorations. However, a few people wish there was more walking involved, as the majority of the time is spent inside the bus, with only two short stops.

Practical Aspects: Booking, Accessibility, and Weather

The tour is available for most travelers, including service animals, and confirmation is received immediately after booking. You should dress comfortably and be prepared for a bus ride with air conditioning. In case of bad weather, the tour can be canceled or rescheduled, with a full refund offered if it’s canceled.

The tour is popular, with most guests booking about three weeks in advance, so early planning is advisable. The maximum group size of 32 helps keep the experience personal, even during busy periods.

What’s Not Included

Guests should note that food and drinks are not included in the tour price. The focus remains on sightseeing, storytelling, and the cemetery visit.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour suits first-time visitors who want a rundown of New Orleans in a short timeframe. It’s ideal for those who prefer comfortable transportation over walking, but still want to see key districts and historic sites. The expert guide’s stories and included cemetery visit add a layer of depth that makes the experience worthwhile.

Limitations to Consider

Guests who prefer more walking or in-depth explorations might find the mostly bus-based itinerary a bit limiting. The short stops mean that those wanting more time at each location may need to look for alternative options.

Why This Tour Is a Solid Choice for Your NOLA Visit

The New Orleans City Tour offers an affordable, efficient, and well-reviewed way to explore multiple neighborhoods and historic sites without the hassle of organizing individual transportation. The knowledgeable guides and included cemetery visit enrich the experience, making it both educational and entertaining.

While it’s not suited for those wanting long walks or detailed explorations, it provides a great overview for a first visit or a quick city fix. The hotel pickup and comfortable vehicle enhance its convenience, and the high ratings reflect consistent satisfaction among past guests.

Final tip:

Book at least three weeks in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak travel times. Dress comfortably, bring your camera, and prepare to learn some fun facts about New Orleans’ neighborhoods, history, and culture.

Ready to Book?

New Orleans City Tour: Cemetery, French Quarter, Garden District

4.5

82% 5-star

“The group was too large, the bus a/c was inefficient, and architectural styles were discussed ad nauseam. City Park stop was an unadvertised but we…”

— pcorbitt, May 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Downtown New Orleans are included, making it easy to start and end the tour comfortably.

How long is the cemetery visit?
The cemetery stop lasts approximately 20 minutes, with guided insights into the historic tombs at St. Louis Cemetery No. 3.

What’s included in the price?
The tour guide, hotel transportation, admission to the cemetery, and air-conditioned vehicle are included. Food and drinks are not included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours before. Cancelling within 24 hours results in no refund.

Is this tour suitable for mobility-impaired visitors?
Most of the tour is inside the bus, but the short stops might require some mobility. It’s best to check specific accessibility needs in advance.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people usually join this tour?
The maximum group size is 32 travelers, helping to maintain a comfortable and engaging experience.

What makes this tour stand out compared to other options?
The hotel pickup, inclusive cemetery visit, and highly praised guides make this tour a reliable, hassle-free way to see key parts of New Orleans quickly.

Is this tour good for families or children?
Yes, as it involves short bus rides and brief stops, it can accommodate families, though the focus on historic sites may be more appreciated by older children.

How far in advance should I book?
Most guests book about three weeks ahead to secure their preferred date, especially during busy seasons.

This New Orleans City Tour blends convenience, education, and entertainment in a compact package perfect for those wanting to see the city’s highlights with expert commentary. Its affordable price and high ratings make it a dependable choice for a first introduction to the vibrant city of New Orleans.