We love —
- Exploring the most authentic side of Louisiana, where historic plantations, untamed bayous, and characterful Creole towns reveal a rich cultural heritage.
- Travelling along the scenic River Road beside the Mississippi, passing antebellum homes set beneath centuries-old oaks and magnolia trees.
- Opting for offer 2 to extend our journey with a stay in New York, adding a vibrant city experience to your trip.
Welcome to the United States —
From the Creole energy of New Orleans to the grand plantations of the River Road shaded by centuries-old oak trees, from the Cajun landscapes around Lafayette to the historic bluffs of Natchez overlooking the Mississippi: embark on a 7- or 10-night self-drive itinerary that reveals an authentic side of the American South, rich in culture, music and history.
For an even more complete American escape, Offer 2 also includes the possibility of extending your trip with a stay in New York City before your return flight.
Our offers:
Offer 1: 7-10 night road trip: Louisiana & the Mississippi
Offer 2: 7-10 night road trip: Louisiana & the Mississippi & Tempo by Hilton New York Times Square 4*
10 nights: 7-night tour & 3-night New York City stay
11 nights: 7-night tour & 4-night New York City stay
12 nights: 7-night tour & 5-night New York City stay
13 nights: 7-night tour & 6-night New York City stay
14 nights: 7-night tour & 7-night New York City stay
15 nights: 7-night tour & 8-night New York City stay
Your itinerary in brief —
DURATION: 7 or 10 nights
BEST FOR: Cultural immersion
PACE: Moderate
Explore the United States
Louisiana and Mississippi are destinations best experienced slowly, where the rhythm of the Mississippi River, the hush of the bayous and the sounds of jazz drifting through historic streets shape every moment of the journey. Several included experiences bring the spirit of Louisiana to life. In New Orleans, step aboard the iconic Steamboat NATCHEZ for a jazz cruise on the Mississippi, complete with a traditional Louisiana lunch served as the city skyline drifts by. Venture deep into the Barataria Basin during a small-group airboat safari through the bayous, where cypress swamps and hidden waterways reveal Louisiana’s wild beauty. Along the legendary River Road, discover the elegant Oak Alley Plantation, famous for its spectacular avenue lined with 28 ancient oak trees.
To help you make the most of every stop, a digital travel booklet is included with carefully selected recommendations, local favourites and essential experiences throughout the journey, allowing you to explore the Deep South with confidence and insight.
Choose the length of your stay:
7-night road trip:
Day 1: Arrive in New Orleans
Day 2: New Orleans
Day 3: New Orleans → Lafayette
Day 4: Lafayette → Natchez
Day 5: Natchez → Darrow
Day 6: Darrow → New Orleans
Day 7: New Orleans
Day 8: Depart from New Orleans
10-night road trip:
Day 1: Arrive in New Orleans
Day 2: New Orleans
Day 3: New Orleans → Darrow
Day 4: Darrow → Lafayette
Day 5: Lafayette → Alexandria
Day 6: Alexandria → Natchez
Day 7: Natchez
Day 8: Natchez → Vicksburg
Day 9: Vicksburg → New Orleans
Day 10: New Orleans
Day 11: Depart from New Orleans
Your itinerary in detail —
7-night road trip:
DAY 1: ARRIVE IN NEW ORLEANS
Arrive in New Orleans and collect your rental car before diving straight into a city that blends French, Caribbean, and American influences. The French Quarter sets the tone with wrought iron balconies, hidden courtyards, and the sound of live music drifting through the streets. Jackson Square and Café du Monde offer a classic pause, with beignets enjoyed alongside views of the Mississippi River.
The Garden District offers a quieter side of the city with grand mansions, magnolia trees, and shaded streets perfect for wandering. Evenings are best spent returning to live music or enjoying Creole cuisine in atmospheric neighbourhood restaurants.
Included
- Arrive at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
- Pick up your car hire
- Night at Hyatt Centric French Quarter
DAY 2: NEW ORLEANS
Aboard the included cruise on the Steamboat Natchez, glide along the river with live jazz and a relaxed Louisiana lunch served on board. The skyline unfolds from the water, offering a completely different perspective of the city’s rhythm. In the evening, Frenchmen Street delivers intimate jazz clubs where music is experienced just a few steps from the stage.
The included small airboat experience takes you deep into the bayous outside the city, where wetlands stretch endlessly in every direction. A local captain guides you through narrow waterways, spotting alligators, birds, and raccoons in their natural habitat. It is a fast-paced yet immersive contrast to the gentler pace of the river cruise.
Included
- 1 x Daytime New Orleans Harbour Jazz Cruise with lunch (excluding drinks)
- 1 x Airboat Swamp Tour (6+)
- Night at Hyatt Centric French Quarter
DAY 3: NEW ORLEANS → LAFAYETTE
Drive west into Lafayette, the heart of Cajun country, where culture, music, and food feel distinctly local. The landscape shifts into bayous and wide open wetlands dotted with cypress trees. Visit Vermilionville to explore Cajun and Creole heritage through restored homes and live demonstrations. The region’s history is rooted in Acadian resilience, reflected in language, music, and cuisine. Evenings come alive with Cajun music in small venues where accordion and fiddle set the tone.
Included
- Night at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Lafayette
DAY 4: LAFAYETTE → NATCHEZ
Travel north towards Natchez, a historic river town perched above the Mississippi. The drive crosses changing landscapes that gradually become more elevated and wooded. Natchez offers one of the most atmospheric settings along the river.
The town is known for its concentration of antebellum architecture, with grand homes set among mature gardens and oak trees. Many properties open their doors for guided visits that reveal layered and complex histories. The Mississippi River below the bluff adds a dramatic sense of place.
Included
- Night at Monmouth Historic Inn
DAY 5: NATCHEZ → DARROW
Follow the River Road back into Louisiana, passing stretches of sugarcane fields and grand plantation estates. The drive between Baton Rouge and New Orleans is one of the most scenic in the region. Ancient oak trees form natural arches over the roadway in places.
Arrive at Darrow and visit the Oak Alley Plantation, one of the most recognisable estates in the South. A guided visit explores both the architecture and the wider historical context of the site. Later, settle into a historic riverside estate surrounded by gardens and soft evening light. The Mississippi River nearby adds a calm backdrop to the night.
Included
- 1 x Oak Alley Plantation Admission Ticket including "Big House" Exhibit
- Night at The Inn at Houmas House
DAY 6: DARROW → NEW ORLEANS
Return to New Orleans with a short drive that follows the river back towards the city. The landscape becomes more urban and lively as you approach. Evenings offer a final chance to enjoy live jazz or a refined Creole dining experience. The Garden District provides a calm contrast to the energy of the French Quarter. This is a time to revisit favourite places or discover new corners.
Included
- Night at Hyatt Centric French Quarter
DAY 7: NEW ORLEANS
This final day is ideal for exploring neighbourhoods such as Magazine Street and the French Market. Optional visits include City Park and its museums. Each area reveals a different layer of the city’s identity. The city feels richer after time spent in the bayous and along the river. New Orleans leaves a lasting impression that lingers well beyond departure.
Included
- Night at Hyatt Centric French Quarter
DAY 8: DEPART FROM NEW ORLEANS
Enjoy a final morning before heading to the airport. Return the car hire and allow time for a relaxed departure. The journey ends where it began, in the rhythm of the city.
Included
- Drop off your car hire
- Departure from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
10-night road trip:
DAY 1: ARRIVE IN NEW ORLEANS
Arrive in New Orleans and collect your rental car before diving straight into a city that blends French, Caribbean, and American influences. The French Quarter sets the tone with wrought iron balconies, hidden courtyards, and the sound of live music drifting through the streets. Jackson Square and Café du Monde offer a classic pause, with beignets enjoyed alongside views of the Mississippi River.
The Garden District offers a quieter side of the city with grand mansions, magnolia trees, and shaded streets perfect for wandering. Evenings are best spent returning to live music or enjoying Creole cuisine in atmospheric neighbourhood restaurants.
Included
- Arrive at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
- Pick up your car hire
- Night at Hyatt Centric French Quarter
DAY 2: NEW ORLEANS
Aboard the included cruise on the Steamboat Natchez, glide along the river with live jazz and a relaxed Louisiana lunch served on board. The skyline unfolds from the water, offering a completely different perspective of the city’s rhythm. In the evening, Frenchmen Street delivers intimate jazz clubs where music is experienced just a few steps from the stage.
The included small airboat experience takes you deep into the bayous outside the city, where wetlands stretch endlessly in every direction. A local captain guides you through narrow waterways, spotting alligators, birds, and raccoons in their natural habitat. It is a fast-paced yet immersive contrast to the gentler pace of the river cruise.
Included
- 1 x Daytime New Orleans Harbour Jazz Cruise with lunch (excluding drinks)
- 1 x Airboat Swamp Tour (6+)
- Night at Hyatt Centric French Quarter
DAY 3: NEW ORLEANS → DARROW
Follow the River Road back into Louisiana, passing stretches of sugarcane fields and grand plantation estates. The drive between Baton Rouge and New Orleans is one of the most scenic in the region. Ancient oak trees form natural arches over the roadway in places.
Arrive at Darrow and visit the Oak Alley Plantation, one of the most recognisable estates in the South. A guided visit explores both the architecture and the wider historical context of the site. Later, settle into a historic riverside estate surrounded by gardens and soft evening light. The Mississippi River nearby adds a calm backdrop to the night.
Included
- 1 x Oak Alley Plantation Admission Ticket including "Big House" Exhibit
- Night at The Inn at Houmas House
DAY 4: DARROW → LAFAYETTE
Drive west into Lafayette, the heart of Cajun country, where culture, music, and food feel distinctly local. The landscape shifts into bayous and wide open wetlands dotted with cypress trees. Visit Vermilionville to explore Cajun and Creole heritage through restored homes and live demonstrations. The region’s history is rooted in Acadian resilience, reflected in language, music, and cuisine. Evenings come alive with Cajun music in small venues where accordion and fiddle set the tone.
Included
- Night at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Lafayette
DAY 5: LAFAYETTE → ALEXANDRIA
Head north into quieter Louisiana, passing farmland and wide open landscapes along the way. Alexandria offers a more understated side of the state, far from the main tourist routes. Visit the Kent House, one of the oldest surviving structures in Louisiana, to understand early regional history. Nature lovers may also consider a visit to the nearby Kisatchie National Forest for gentle walking trails among pine landscapes. The evening is peaceful and unhurried, offering a chance to experience a more local rhythm of life.
Included
- Night at LA Four Points by Sheraton Alexandria
DAY 6: ALEXANDRIA → NATCHEZ
Travel north towards Natchez, a historic river town perched above the Mississippi. The drive crosses changing landscapes that gradually become more elevated and wooded. Natchez offers one of the most atmospheric settings along the river.
The town is known for its concentration of antebellum architecture, with grand homes set among mature gardens and oak trees. Many properties open their doors for guided visits that reveal layered and complex histories. The Mississippi River below the bluff adds a dramatic sense of place.
Included
- Night at Monmouth Historic Inn
DAY 7: NATCHEZ
Spend time exploring the historic district and enjoy walks along the river at sunset, where the light shifts beautifully over the Mississippi. The Natchez Trace Parkway offers a scenic drive through landscapes rich in history and natural beauty.
Included
- Night at Monmouth Historic Inn
DAY 8: NATCHEZ → VICKSBURG
Drive north along the river toward Vicksburg. Visit the Vicksburg National Military Park, where preserved battlefields and monuments reflect an important moment in American history. The site is extensive and best explored at a slow pace, with time to take in both the scale and detail of the landscape. In town, the historic centre and riverfront add context to its past and present identity.
Included
- Night at MS Corners Mansion Inn
DAY 9: VICKSBURG → NEW ORLEANS
Return to New Orleans with a short drive that follows the river back towards the city. The landscape becomes more urban and lively as you approach. Evenings offer a final chance to enjoy live jazz or a refined Creole dining experience. The Garden District provides a calm contrast to the energy of the French Quarter. This is a time to revisit favourite places or discover new corners.
Included
- Night at Hyatt Centric French Quarter
DAY 10: NEW ORLEANS
This final day is ideal for exploring neighbourhoods such as Magazine Street and the French Market. Optional visits include City Park and its museums. Each area reveals a different layer of the city’s identity. The city feels richer after time spent in the bayous and along the river. New Orleans leaves a lasting impression that lingers well beyond departure.
Included
- Night at Hyatt Centric French Quarter
DAY 11: DEPART FROM NEW ORLEANS
Enjoy a final morning before heading to the airport. Return the car hire and allow time for a relaxed departure. The journey ends where it began, in the rhythm of the city.
Included
- Drop off your car hire
- Departure from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
Important information about your tour and visits: The hotels, which comply with local standards, are indicative and may be changed locally for hotels of a similar category. The itinerary is subject to changes due to compelling reasons such as delayed flights, weather conditions or other cases of force majeure. The order of visits is also subject to change without affecting the overall experience of the itinerary.
Your hotels —
Just for you:
Hand-picked just for you
At each of your stops, you will be staying in Standard Rooms in thoughtfully selected Superior hotels.
Superior hotels (or similar):
- New Orleans: Hyatt Centric French Quarter
- Lafayette: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Lafayette
- Natchez: Monmouth Historic Inn
- Darrow: The Inn at Houmas House
- Alexandria (10-night road trip only): LA Four Points by Sheraton Alexandria
- Vicksburg (10-night road trip only):: MS Corners Mansion Inn
If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply
Your dining choices
This is an accommodation-only stay.
Car hire: —
Embrace the freedom to move around as you please, and take advantage of category B car hire.
Included extras —
Oak Alley Plantation Admission Ticket including "Big House" Exhibit
Step into the timeless atmosphere of Oak Alley Plantation, where centuries of history unfold beneath a majestic canopy of ancient oak trees.
Daytime New Orleans Harbour Jazz Cruise with lunch (except Sunday)
Spend two hours aboard the Steamboat Natchez, New Orleans’ most iconic paddlewheeler, as it cruises along the Mississippi River. Live traditional jazz plays on the upper deck while a classic Louisiana lunch is served on board, accompanied by sweeping views of the city skyline from the water. A timeless experience that captures the spirit and atmosphere of New Orleans.
Airboat Swamp Tour (6+)
Enjoy a small-group airboat ride for 6 to 12 passengers, with round-trip transfers from the French Quarter. Speed through the bayous towards the Barataria Basin and Jean Lafitte, before slowing down to spot alligators, raccoons, birds, and nutria in the swamps.
A Louisiana-born captain-guide shares insights into the wetlands, and the visit includes an albino alligator vivarium. Around 3 hours 45 minutes of authentic wilderness exploration.
New Orleans Food Walking Tour of the French Quarter for 10-night tours only
A three-hour walking food tour through the French Quarter, with tastings at every stop showcasing the city’s signature flavours. Sample Creole gumbo, seafood po’boy, alligator sausage, muffuletta, and other distinctive Louisiana specialities
Along the way, discover how the history of New Orleans is told through its cuisine, guided by a passionate local expert.
Tempo by Hilton New York Times Square 4* —
Perfectly positioned overlooking the iconic Times Square, Tempo by Hilton New York Times Square 4* places you at the very heart of the city’s vibrant energy. From the moment you arrive, the rhythm of New York surrounds you, bright lights, towering skyscrapers and an atmosphere unlike anywhere else.
Step outside and find yourself moments from Broadway theatres, renowned restaurants, exclusive boutiques and legendary landmarks such as Central Park, Rockefeller Center and Grand Central Station. Inside, the hotel’s sleek, contemporary design creates a refined urban retreat, offering both comfort and style in one of the world’s most dynamic destinations.
Your room —
Choose between a stay in a Standard King Room or Standard Two Queens Room.
Standard King Room (21 m²)
Soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the Big Apple through the large bay window of your Standard King Room. Elegant and comfortable, this space combines natural colours and cosy materials for a relaxing stay.
Standard Two Queens Room (23 m²)
Ideal for stays with friends or family, the Standard Two Queens Room invites you to enjoy your city break to the fullest in a modern, chic and cosy cocoon that everyone will love.
Your dining choices
Overlooking the bright lights of Times Square, Highball Restaurant captures the essence of Manhattan’s energy. In a chic and contemporary setting, savour creative dishes designed for sharing, alongside expertly crafted cocktails inspired by the city’s vibrant spirit. In the morning, the Café offers a refined start to your day with a selection of plant-forward creations, premium coffee, artisanal teas and freshly pressed juices, the perfect prelude before stepping out into the excitement of New York.
Your time
Start your day in the 24-hour fitness centre, designed to keep you energised before stepping into the city. Whether you're exploring iconic sights or simply soaking in the atmosphere, everything New York has to offer is within easy reach. From early morning walks through Central Park to late-night discoveries under the city lights, your stay becomes a seamless blend of movement, discovery and unforgettable moments.
Optional extras —
Bustronome - gourmet lunch aboard a luxury panoramic bus
Enjoy a gourmet 4-course lunch aboard a luxury panoramic bus while discovering Manhattan's iconic landmarks in 90 minutes.
Bustronome - gourmet dinner tour of New York in a luxury bus
Enjoy a refined 5-course dinner during a unique evening tour of Manhattan and Brooklyn aboard a glass-enclosed bus offering spectacular views of New York City at night.
City tour
Discover Manhattan on an excursion by minibus or bus, offering an overview of New York's iconic districts and famous monuments, personalised by passionate guides. Route includes Lincoln Center, Central Park, Trump Tower, St Patrick's Cathedral, Rockefeller Center and more.
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Ticket - Immersive experience & panoramic view of New York (weekdays)
An unforgettable experience awaits you in the heart of the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt observatory. Located more than 330m high, this 3-storey space offers an unparalleled panoramic view of the Big Apple's landmarks. Take in Times Square, the Empire State Building or Bryant Park and let yourself be carried away by unique sensory experiences.
Entry ticket for the One World Observatory – fixed times
Enjoy an immersive experience at the One World Observatory with a spectacular ride in the SkyPod and a 360° panoramic view of New York’s must-see sights from a height of 381 metres.
Empire State Building ticket with access to the 86th and 102nd floors – standard opening hours
Enjoy a timed-entry ticket that includes access to the open-air observation decks on the 86th floor and the 102nd floor, where you can admire New York from 360° panoramic views and see iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and Central Park.
Empire State Building ticket – sunset
Book a timed-entry ticket to visit the Empire State Building’s unique observation deck at sunset and enjoy a 360° panoramic view of Manhattan, accompanied by interactive exhibitions tracing the building’s history.
Top of the Rock ticket – flexible times
Enjoy a FLEX ticket, which can be exchanged at the entrance, to access all three levels of Top of the Rock, including the 70th floor with its outdoor terraces, and admire Manhattan and Central Park from a unique panoramic viewpoint.
MoMA admission ticket – Modern and contemporary art, including access to MoMA PS1
Enjoy a ticket valid on the day of your visit, which includes access to all of MoMA’s galleries, temporary exhibitions, film screenings, a free audio guide, and MoMA PS1, the sister institution dedicated to experimental contemporary art.
Best of New York Cruise – A Complete Tour of Manhattan
Enjoy a 2½-hour cruise taking you on a complete tour of Manhattan, covering all five boroughs, with views of the Statue of Liberty and iconic bridges, accompanied by live commentary from expert guides.
Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Ferry - Priority Ticket
Hop aboard a ferry and head to Liberty Island to admire one of the USA’s most famous monuments up close: the Statue of Liberty! A second ferry will take you to Ellis Island and the Immigration Museum, before returning to Manhattan.
Bike hire in New York (4 hours)
Hire a bike in New York and explore Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge and the city’s iconic neighbourhoods at your own pace.
American Museum of Natural History ticket – General admission + 1 exhibition
Enjoy a ticket that includes access to all the permanent galleries, the Rose Center for Earth and Space, the Gilder Center and a special exhibition of your choice, allowing you to explore science, nature and the universe in an immersive way.
New York City Cruise - Skyline Tour (1.5 hours)
Take a cruise to discover Manhattan, its skyscrapers, famous bridges and even get close to the Statue of Liberty!
Ticket for the Edge observation deck – fixed times
Book a timed-entry ticket to visit The Edge at your chosen date and time, and enjoy a unique immersive experience with spectacular views of New York from a platform suspended high above the city.
New York CityPASS - Access to the top 5 attractions
Save money and book your New York CityPASS now. Enjoy privileged access to five of New York's best attractions. Your pass will be valid for 9 consecutive days, so you can visit the best of the city has to offer at your own pace.
Ticket for the Edge observation deck – flexible times
Enjoy a FLEX ticket that lets you visit The Edge on the day and at the time of your choice, and experience a unique, immersive adventure with spectacular 360° views of New York from a platform suspended in mid-air.
Helicopter Flight – Manhattan Tour (12–15 mins | only for offer 2)
Take a helicopter tour of Manhattan and, in just a few minutes, admire the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, the Empire State Building and New York’s iconic skyline.
Helicopter Tour – Big Apple (17–20 mins)
Take a helicopter flight over the Big Apple and admire Manhattan, Central Park, its iconic bridges and the Statue of Liberty on this spectacular tour.
Helicopter Tour – Empire Tour (25–30 mins)
Enjoy a 25- to 30-minute private flight over New York and see Coney Island, Brooklyn, Central Park, Midtown, Downtown and the Statue of Liberty from the air.
Your journey —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Car hire:
This package includes car hire, giving you the freedom to customise every aspect of your road trip, transforming each turn of the road into an unforgettable adventure. Discover scenic coastlines, traverse rugged mountains, or meander through quaint towns - your journey is entirely yours to shape. Important information if you are planning to book your own flights: In order to organise the pick-up of your vehicle at the airport, please inform us of your flight times within 48 hours of your booking by filling in the dedicated form in your member account. Without this information, you will not be able to collect your vehicle.
Your destination —
The USA
The USA offers an immersive and awe-inspiring journey through vast landscapes, from the rugged desert terrain to its dynamic cities. Iconic destinations like Chicago, Los Angeles, and the Grand Canyon unfold a journey through American culture, history, and geography. As you venture from city to city, the blend of modern marvels and natural wonders will captivate your imagination.
Must-sees:
- Route 66: Follow the legendary highway, exploring its small towns, nostalgic stops, and hidden gems along the way.
- Grand Canyon: Experience the breathtaking views of this natural wonder, with its immense scale and vivid colours.
- Santa Fe: Discover the vibrant Native American and Spanish influences, reflected in its art, architecture, and festivals.
Culinary culture:
The food scene in the United States is a diverse tapestry, reflecting its cultural melting pot. In Chicago, savour deep-dish pizza, a comforting culinary icon, or try Chicago-style hot dogs for a quick snack. Las Vegas offers an extravagant array of Michelin-starred restaurants, while Santa Fe's dining blends Native American ingredients with modern flavours. Street food in places like Los Angeles provides a taste of the multicultural influence, with tacos, sushi, and gourmet food trucks showcasing a variety of international cuisines.
Dive deeper:
Beyond the well-known attractions, the United States offers lesser-known cultural experiences. Visit the Gilcrease Museum in Tulsa to explore the largest collection of Western art and artefacts. In Santa Fe, stroll through the Native American art markets or immerse yourself in the region’s distinctive Pueblo architecture. For history enthusiasts, Springfield's sites honouring Abraham Lincoln will provide a deep connection to the nation's past.
Good to know:
For an enriching experience, consider visiting during off-peak months when popular destinations are less crowded. Public transportation is widely available in major cities, but a road trip remains one of the most authentic ways to explore the country. For adventure seekers, hiking and outdoor excursions are abundant, particularly in national parks like the Grand Canyon or along the coast of California.
