Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans

  • Louisiana + 5 more
  • Independent USA Rail Holidays, Rail Holidays, USA Rail Holidays,
  • 10
from  £1,799pp
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Introduction

Experience the soulful heart of the American South on a no-drive holiday that takes you to the vibrant cities of Nashville, Memphis, and New Orleans. Spend 3 nights in each destination, with seamless transfers between cities, including a scenic Amtrak rail journey from Memphis to New Orleans. In Nashville, explore the roots of country music with admission to the Grand Ole Opry, a backstage tour, a visit to RCA Studio B, and the Country Music Hall of Fame. In Memphis, delve into the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll with VIP access to Graceland, a Memphis city tour, and admission to the legendary Sun Studio. Then, soak up the charm of New Orleans with a hop-on hop-off bus tour and an evening jazz cruise along the Mississippi River, complete with dinner. With all transfers and activities arranged, this no-drive adventure promises a stress-free exploration of the South’s rich culture, music, and history.

Tailor-made for YOU!

All of our independent holidays are fully customisable and can be tailor-made to suit your own individual requirements. Please let your Discover North America travel specialist know if you would like to start in a different destination, reverse the itinerary, use specific hotel accommodation or simply want to add an extra excursion or two. Do you have more or less than 10 days for your trip? No problem, we can add extra nights to allow more time to explore or shorten the number of destinations as required.

International Flights

As we can offer you such an extensive choice of flights, we don’t automatically include international flights in the headline fare displayed on our website, unless stated otherwise in the `What’s Included’ section. The price you pay will be determined by the time of year you travel, your departure airport, airline, class of travel and availability. When requesting your initial quote, your Discover North America Travel Specialist will take the time to understand your own individual requirements with regard to international flights and will tailor the quote specifically to your needs.

Find out more about the process we follow here.

 

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Gallery

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Nashville

Arrive at the airport and transfer independently to your downtown hotel for a 03-night stay

Days 2 & 3: Nashville

Immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythms of Nashville, the heart of country music and one of America’s most iconic cultural destinations. Over the next 02 days, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the best of Music City, from its lively honky-tonks and world-class museums to its historic landmarks and legendary music venues.

Your itinerary includes admission to RCA Studio B, where legends like Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton recorded some of their greatest hits, and the Country Music Hall of Fame, a treasure trove of memorabilia and exhibits celebrating the history of country music. You’ll also enjoy a visit to the world-renowned Grand Ole Opry, including a behind-the-scenes backstage tour of this iconic venue where country stars have performed for nearly a century.

Beyond the scheduled activities, there’s plenty to discover at your own pace. Stroll through the buzzing Broadway district to catch live music in the city’s famous honky-tonk bars, explore the trendy shops and eateries of The Gulch, or take a leisurely walk through Centennial Park to see the stunning full-scale replica of the Parthenon.

Day 4: Nashville to Memphis

Today, you’ll check out of your Nashville hotel and board a comfortable transfer to Memphis, a journey of approximately 3.5 hours. As you travel through the heart of Tennessee, soak in the picturesque scenery of rolling hills, charming small towns, and lush green countryside. Along the way, you’ll pass by fields and farmland that showcase the region’s natural beauty, offering a glimpse into the serene landscapes that define the Volunteer State. This relaxing drive sets the stage perfectly as you head towards Memphis, the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll and home to legendary blues and soul music. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your Memphis hotel for a 03-night stay and begin your exploration of this iconic city.

Day 5: Memphis

Today, you’ll delve into the heart of Memphis on a fascinating city tour, complete with admission to the legendary Sun Studio. This narrated tour offers a comprehensive look at the city, showcasing its vibrant history and culture. As you drive past the mighty Mississippi River, admire the grand Victorian homes that reflect Memphis’s storied past, and pass by cultural landmarks that have shaped the city’s unique identity.

A highlight of the tour is your visit to Sun Studio, the famed recording studio where music legends like Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, and Jerry Lee Lewis laid down some of their most iconic tracks. Step into the very space where the sounds of rock ‘n’ roll were born and feel the energy of this musical landmark.

Your day also includes a stop at the historic Peabody Hotel, where you can witness the charming tradition of the "March of the Ducks," a delightful spectacle that has become a beloved Memphis tradition. With round-trip transportation from your downtown Memphis hotel included, this tour offers an effortless way to experience the city’s history, music, and charm in one unforgettable day.

Day 6: Graceland

Today, you’ll immerse yourself in the life and legacy of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll with a VIP tour of Graceland, Elvis Presley’s iconic home. This exclusive experience offers a fascinating glimpse into where Elvis lived, relaxed, and spent cherished moments with his family and friends.

Your tour of the Graceland Mansion includes a walk through its most famous rooms, including Elvis's elegant living room, his parents’ bedroom, and the vibrant music room. You’ll also explore the dining room, kitchen, TV room, pool room, and the legendary Jungle Room, known for its unique décor and connection to Elvis’s music.

Beyond the mansion, your visit extends to other parts of the stunning 14-acre estate, offering deeper insight into Elvis’s personal and professional life. End your tour with a visit to the serene Meditation Garden, a peaceful space where Elvis and several members of his family have been laid to rest.

This unforgettable day provides an intimate look at one of the most influential cultural figures of all time, bringing you closer to the man behind the music.

Day 7: Memphis to New Orleans

Today, you’ll embark on an unforgettable journey aboard the City of New Orleans Amtrak service, travelling from Memphis to New Orleans. Sit back, relax, and watch as the captivating landscapes of the Deep South unfold outside your window. As the train makes its way south, you’ll pass through charming small towns, sprawling farmlands, and tranquil bayous, showcasing the region’s unique beauty and character.

This iconic rail route offers a comfortable and scenic way to travel, providing the perfect opportunity to take in the lush greenery and waterways that define the Mississippi Delta. Upon arrival in vibrant New Orleans, you’ll check into your hotel for a 3-night stay. With its rich culture, world-class music, and renowned cuisine, the Crescent City promises an exciting and memorable next chapter of your holiday.

Days 8 & 9: New Orleans

Spend two unforgettable days exploring the vibrant city of New Orleans, where history, culture, and music come alive. Begin your adventure with a New Orleans Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour, the perfect way to experience the city's top attractions at your own pace. From the historic French Quarter to the charming Garden District, this flexible tour allows you to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavours of the Crescent City. Explore iconic landmarks like Jackson Square, the St. Louis Cathedral, and the bustling French Market while learning about the city’s fascinating history.

In the evening, embark on a Mississippi River Jazz Cruise, a quintessential New Orleans experience. Savour a delicious dinner aboard a traditional paddlewheel steamboat as you glide along the iconic river, taking in the city’s sparkling skyline. Let the soulful sounds of live jazz music set the tone for a truly magical evening, blending the rhythm of New Orleans with the gentle flow of the Mississippi.

These two days offer an ideal mix of exploration and relaxation, showcasing the best of New Orleans' rich culture, music, and culinary delights.

Day 10: New Orleans

Check out of your hotel and transfer independently to the airport for your flight back to the UK. Alternatively, speak with your Discover North America Travel specialist about extending your time in the USA.