Cheap Tickets to New Orleans

The roots of jazz and a unique cosmopolitan culture have long been part of this city. Nicknamed the "Big Easy", it is one of the oldest towns in the United States of America. Since its founding in 1718, French, African-American, Creole, Irish, Vietnamese and German populations have all mingled to create an energetic and multicultural city life. Colonial-style buildings, elegant plantation homes, streetcars and museums provide its historical attractions while spicy Creole food and a vibrant nightlife jazz up any visit. And, with no exaggeration, there's barely a week goes by in New Orleans without a festival or parade giving everyone an excuse to dress up in carnival costumes, decorate their floats and hit the streets for party time.

Things to do

The French Quarter is the heart of New Orleans, with the oldest buildings and a faded grandeur, while Marigny and Bywater are more hip and bohemian with a strong music scene. For restaurants and swanky shops, hit Mid-City, also home to beautiful cemeteries and the Botanical Gardens.

• Soaring spires

With its soaring spires and magnificent stained glass, St Louis Cathedral is the oldest in the United States and one of the city's most visited attractions. Be sure to admire the painted ceiling when you step inside this mid-18th-century building.

• A watery world of marine life

The whole family will enjoy a day of fun at the Aquarium of the Americas with its exhibits of both Gulf of Mexico life and species from waters around the globe. Take a tunnel through a Caribbean reef or admire the turtles and sharks in their huge tanks.

• Watch artists at work

Jackson Square has been home to street artists and performers since it was built in 1721. Lined with gracious buildings, you can find it in the French Quarter. This beautiful square was named a National Historic Landmark in 1960.

Calendar of Events

New Orleans has some claim to be the Festival Capital of the World, with dozens of events that celebrate its music, heritage and food. Maybe the most famous is February's Mardi Gras, which seems to involve the whole city, but look out for festivals of Voodoo music as well as St Patrick's Day celebrations and neighbourhood events.

• Mardi Gras. This festival takes over the city in early February with elaborate floats and costumes that have taken a whole year to plan, prepare and construct. From dawn to dusk the city is alive with music and fun.

• New Orleans Wine and Food Experience. This event takes place in May and welcomes wine and food lovers. The city's legendary restaurants put on special menus to celebrate local cuisine while fine wines from across the globe are savoured.

• NOLA ChristmasFest. If you're in the city during the Christmas period, this is the perfect way to celebrate. Held in the Morial Convention Centre, this Winter wonderland features ice slides, a skating rink, gingerbread houses, Christmas trees and stalls selling Christmas crafts.