2-Day Itinerary Exploring New Orleans

Icon Share

SHARE

Advisor - Georgia Goddard
Curated By

Georgia Goddard

  • City Travel

  • New Orleans

  • Sightseeing

  • Local Food

A two-story building with large purple, green and gold baubles hanging from the eaves and a car parked in front.
Curator’s statement

New Orleans, lovingly known as NOLA, is a unique city in the Southern state of Louisiana. The French-designed architecture makes the city stand out compared to others across the US and makes you feel like you've been transported back in time. Home to Mardi Gras, Creole cuisine and the French Quarter, New Orleans is a magical city that you should add to your bucket list.

The Fora Difference

Book with Georgia to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.

Icon Travel Perks
Killer perks

Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you

Icon Recommendations
Personalized recs

Customized travel planning for your style

Icon Inside Knowledge
Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay

Unlock perks by contacting Georgia to book your trip.

Day 1: Magazine Street & Tulane University

A colorful wooden sign for “The Bead Shop” with festive bead strings.

Welcome to New Orleans! Start you day in this unique city at French Truck Coffee, which has multiple locations. It's one of the most popular cafes amongst locals, so don’t miss out! They also serve an array of pastries, perfect for a quick breakfast.

Afterwards, head to Magazine Street, a six-mile-long shopping destination in Uptown New Orleans. It is home to many local independent shops selling a variety of things, such as clothing and home amenities. I would highly recommend a visit to The Bead Shop, where you can design your own charm bracelets! The staff are lovely, and you won’t need to worry about the wait — the bracelets are completed in front of you! Just off Magazine Street is Domilise’s Po-Boy & Bar, which serves traditional New Orleans po'boys. This dive bar-esque establishment is the best place to try new dishes alongside locals.

Once you’ve finished lunch, make your way to Tulane University. The private university is New Orleans' most prestigious educational institution, and the grounds are stunning. In the evening, head to a local restaurant and make sure to get some daiquiris, which are a New Orleans tradition. They offer loads of flavors, including king cake, which is a Mardi Gras cake.

Day 2: French Quarter & City Park

Beignets and coffee on a table at Cafe du Monde.

Begin your second day in New Orleans at Cafe Du Monde in the French Quarter, the city’s most famous cafe. Right on the Mississippi River, the French-style coffee house serves traditional beignets, which are square doughnuts dusted with icing sugar, and cafe au lait. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Once finished with breakfast, wonder around the French Quarter. The architecture is stunning, and you forget you're in the US. It is a European haven that hasn’t been altered since it was built in the 1700s. Grab some lunch at Pat O’Brien’s, which serves traditional Creole cuisine such as jambalaya and homemade bread pudding.

Later on, head to City Park. Wander along the multiple paths and relax in the green space. In the evening, head to Bourbon Street to experience a New Orleans night out filled with liquor and jazz music. It is the perfect way to end your visit to the city.

Advisor - Georgia Goddard

Travel Advisor

Georgia Goddard

Get in touch with Georgia

Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.

You can normally expect a response from Georgia within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).

This itinerary is part of our ongoing series on travel to New Orleans. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, 3 Day Itinerary in Valencia.