Car hire in the US makes it much easier to get to grips with the huge scale of cities and states. And in New Orleans it also helps you to get to some of the more remote but architecturally fascinating and charming suburbs, such as Mid-City. Most of the driving rules are simple to follow but, of course, you’ll be driving on the right hand side of the road. Speed limits will usually be posted, but you shouldn’t exceed 30mph (48km/h) in busy urban areas.

Parking can be difficult in the French Quarter, which is busy and can be expensive for even short-stays. You’re best to park up outside and navigate your way around on foot. If you don’t see a parking meter next to your spot, check the rest of the block – often a single solar-powered meter serves an entire street. Check out Esplanade Avenue and the Lower Quarter for some free places to park.

One quirky rule here is that many intersections will not allow you to make a left turn. Often you’ll have to drive past it, find a safe and suitable place to make a U-turn, then head back and turn right. Locals call this the ‘Louisiana Left’, but we suggest planning your journey in advance to avoid any funky driving manoeuvres.

If heading for the airport, it’s situated to the west of the city on Route 61. The major highway that cuts all across New Orleans is the Interstate 10 (I-10) – in fact it spans all of the southern US, from California to Florida. Route 90 takes you both to the south-west of Louisiana and to the north-east. 

New Orleans is a city where you’ll want to be outdoors. Whether it’s to soak up the street corner music, sample the calorific culinary treats or walk through the historic neighbourhoods, this is a place that basks in sunshine. Many visitors come in the spring to avoid the summer humidity and the Mardi Gras crowds, but whenever you arrive, you’re certain of a unique experience and a warm welcome.

French glamour

If you hear locals talking about the ‘Quarter’, they mean the French Quarter, New Orleans’ most famous neighbourhood. It’s not purely French however – the buildings here also meld Creole and Spanish influences to creating beautiful designs you’ll want to photograph from the moment you set foot inside. The decorative cast iron balconies are a key feature of this intriguing neighbourhood that many residents call home. We recommend sticking around the Quarter until the lights go out.

This place truly comes to life after dark, experience street musicians and artists, chatty locals and gorgeous squares, street food and sit down restaurants, antique shops and art galleries all at your doorstep. Bourbon Street, dating back to 1798, is a historically lively destination and is worth a visit before ending your night at Fritzel’s, the oldest jazz club in all of New Orleans.

From Creole to Cajun

A city that has a serious love affair with food, New Orleans does not leave you short of choice. But to make your trip more memorable, sample some of the local specialties. A Louisiana native might be able to explain the differences between Cajun and Creole cuisine – words that are often used interchangeably by outsiders – but both are delicious. Gumbo, jambalaya, red beans and rice, crawfish etouffee are some standout dishes, but New Orleans also has a track record in sandwiches – both the po-boy and the muffuletta are popular here. Galatoire’s on Bourbon Street is one of the oldest restaurants in town, run by a 5^th generation French family. Oysters and escargot deliver the French flair, while crabmeat Yvonne and seafood okra gumbo offer a local touch. Commander’s Palace is a place for an occasion – it has a dress code – and you can feast on pecan-crusted gulf fish, ceviche and pecan pie.

The musical city

It isn’t just jazz that gets toes tapping in NOLA. You could visit the New Orleans Opera or take in a concert by the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra. If you want to join in the action, head to The Maison on Frenchmen Street or Mulate’s on Julia Street. Both serve dinner, but you’re here for the live bands and Cajun dancing that will get you up out of your seat to shake your stuff. At Rock ‘n’ Bowl on South Carrollton Avenue you can knock some pins down while rockabilly and zydeco musicians get the people dancing.

There’s never a dull moment in New Orleans, one of America’s most exciting cities with a culture you’ll embrace. Car hire in New Orleans is the ideal way to get around and experience it all, whether you want to jive to jazz or savour some Gumbo…