Self-Guided Tour of New Orleans’ Historic French Quarter
Gallery image 2
Gallery image 3
Gallery image 4
Gallery image 5

Self-Guided Tour of New Orleans’ Historic French Quarter

Active
1h - 1h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience New Orleans’ French Quarter at your own pace with David Hedges, owner of Nola Tour Guy, a walking tour company.

On this self-guided walking tour, discover a melting pot of history shaped by French, Spanish, and American influences. Begin at the Mississippi, unravelling tales of pirates like Jean Lafitte and the oldest cathedral in the U.S., St. Louis Cathedral. Stroll through Jackson Square, relishing Creole cuisine secrets and marvel at the historic Ursuline Convent. Make your way to the French Market, steeped in indigenous trading history. This tour unearths the essence of America's most intriguing neighbourhood, taking you on a captivating journey through time.

Get unlimited use of this tour before your booking date and after it. You can use the virtual tour option at home, too.

Once you have booked, you will receive instructions and a unique code to download the tour. The app displays directions to the starting point; when you’re in the right place, tap start.

Available options

Self-Guided Tour of New Orleans’ Historic French Quarter

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English
VoiceMap app for Android and iOS
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Detailed itinerary

1

As you start your journey along the banks of the Mississippi, Washington Artillery Park unfolds, offering a serene introduction to the city's historical narrative. While not a designated stop, its significance is woven into the rich tapestry of New Orleans.

2
Stop 2 Pass by

Pass by the 1850 House Museum & Gift Shop, a testament to the Quarter's preserved history. Though not a stop, its presence contributes to the allure of the area.

3
Stop 3 Pass by

Witness the magnificence of St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest in the United States. Take a moment to absorb this iconic landmark's architectural grandeur and historical significance.

4

Wander through Pirates Alley and catch a glimpse of Pirate's Alley Cafe. While not a designated stop, its location within this historic alley adds charm to your exploration.

5

Pass through Pirates Alley, a pathway steeped in tales of pirates and intrigue. Though not a designated stop, it contributes to the narrative of Jean Lafitte and the Quarter's buccaneer history.

6

Pass by The LaBranche House, an architectural gem enriching the Quarter's ambience. While not a designated stop, its presence enhances the visual journey through the district.

7

Pass by The Court of Two Sisters, an iconic establishment reflecting the French Quarter's culinary legacy. While not a stop, its historical charm adds flavor to your exploration.

8

Pass by James H Cohen Antique Weapons & Rare Coins, a niche attraction within the Quarter's eclectic offerings. Though not a stop, it adds a touch of fascination to your route.

9

Pass by Antoine's Restaurant, a culinary institution steeped in history. While not a designated stop, its presence underscores the French Quarter's gastronomic legacy.

10

Wander through Bourbon Street and pass by Bourbon Vieux, capturing the vibrant essence of the Quarter's nightlife. Though not a designated stop, it adds to the dynamic atmosphere of the district.

11

Pass by Xiques Mansion, a historical gem blending into the Quarter's architectural diversity. While not a designated stop, its presence contributes to the visual richness of the area.

12

Pass by Gardette-LePretre Mansion, a mysterious and intriguing locale. Though not a stop, its history adds a layer of fascination to your stroll.

13

Catch a glimpse of Fritzel's European Jazz Pub, an establishment adding musical notes to your exploration. While not a stop, it encapsulates the Quarter's musical heritage.

14

Pass by Cafe Lafitte in Exile, a historic gay bar dating back to the 1930s. While not a designated stop, its cultural significance is woven into the fabric of the French Quarter.

15

Pause at Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar, a legendary locale with ties to Jean Lafitte. Learn about the pirate's pardon and soak in the ambience of this historic establishment.

16

Pass by Homer A. Plessy Community School, blending modern education with the Quarter's historic roots. While not a stop, it represents the evolving nature of the district.

17
Stop 17 Pass by

Pass by BK Historic House and Gardens, an architectural gem within the Quarter's landscape. While not a designated stop, its historical charm contributes to the visual allure.

18
Stop 18

Arrive at the Old Ursuline Convent Museum, the oldest structure in the French Quarter. If you like, take a moment to explore this historical landmark, delving into its rich history. This is an optional stop and entrance ($8) is not included.

19

Pass by Latrobe Park, an urban oasis nestled within the French Quarter. While not a stop, its presence adds a touch of greenery to your exploration.

What's not included

Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route (optional stops)
Smartphone and headphones
Transportation
Food and drink

Available languages

Audio guide
EN

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The tour starts on the river walk, accessible by foot from the French Quarter. Follow St. Peter Street until you hit the river, and then take a left.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE

───

Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour. 

\This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
───
1. Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
2. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
3. Create an account
4. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
5. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
───
You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT

───

For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About New Orleans

New Orleans is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant music scene, and unique Creole and Cajun cuisine. It's famous for its annual Mardi Gras festival, historic French Quarter, and the lively atmosphere of Bourbon Street.

Top Attractions

French Quarter

The heart of New Orleans, the French Quarter is known for its vibrant nightlife, historic architecture, and cultural landmarks.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, attractions vary

Garden District

A picturesque neighborhood known for its antebellum mansions, oak-lined streets, and historic cemeteries.

Historical Half day Free to explore, tours available

National WWII Museum

A world-class museum dedicated to the history of World War II, featuring immersive exhibits and personal stories.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate to expensive

City Park

A vast urban park featuring lush gardens, walking paths, and cultural attractions.

Nature Half day Free to enter, attractions vary

Frenchmen Street

A lively street known for its live music venues, art galleries, and vibrant nightlife.

Entertainment Evening Varies by venue

Must-Try Local Dishes

Gumbo

A rich and flavorful stew made with a dark roux, meat or seafood, and the 'holy trinity' of vegetables (onions, bell peppers, and celery).

Main Course Can be made with chicken, sausage, or seafood, and may contain gluten and dairy.

Jambalaya

A one-pot dish made with rice, meat or seafood, and the 'holy trinity' of vegetables, seasoned with a variety of spices.

Main Course Can be made with chicken, sausage, or seafood, and may contain gluten and dairy.

Beignets

A deep-fried pastry dusted with powdered sugar, often served with café au lait.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy.

Po' Boy

A classic New Orleans sandwich made with French bread, filled with fried seafood, meat, or vegetables, and topped with lettuce, tomatoes, and mayo.

Sandwich Can be made with various fillings, and may contain gluten and dairy.

Popular Activities

Swamp tours Kayaking Biking Spa treatments Park picnics Café hopping Museum visits Historic site tours

Best Time to Visit

February to April

This is the best time to visit New Orleans, with pleasant weather and major events like Mardi Gras. The city is lively, but also more crowded and expensive.

15-25°C 60-77°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English
  • Widely spoken: French, Spanish, Vietnamese
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Central Time Zone (CT) (GMT-6)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

New Orleans is generally safe for tourists, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to avoid theft and other crimes.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
  • • Use licensed taxis and rideshare services
  • • Be cautious of strangers offering services or assistance

Getting there

By air
  • Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport • 15 miles (24 km) from downtown
By train

New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal

By bus

Greyhound Bus Station, Megabus Stop

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is affordable and covers most of the city, but can be slow due to traffic.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

French Quarter Garden District Warehouse District Faubourg Marigny Mid-City

Day trips

Plantation Country
30-40 miles (48-64 km) • Full day

Explore the historic plantations of Louisiana, with tours and exhibits showcasing the region's complex history.

Swamp and Bayou Tours
30-50 miles (48-80 km) • Half day to full day

Take a boat tour through the Louisiana swamps and bayous, with opportunities to see alligators, birds, and other wildlife.

Baton Rouge
80 miles (129 km) • Full day

Explore the capital of Louisiana, with its historic sites, museums, and universities.

Festivals

Mardi Gras • February or March (varies by year) Jazz & Heritage Festival • Late April to early May (two weekends) French Quarter Festival • April (four days)

Pro tips

  • Visit during the off-peak season for fewer crowds and lower prices
  • Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and attractions
  • Try local cuisine and support local businesses and restaurants
  • Use public transportation, such as buses and streetcars, to get around the city and save money
  • Be cautious of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid theft and other crimes
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 6-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

Similar Experiences

Similar on Klook