Classic Deep South
SELF-DRIVE tour
- Flights to Atlanta and home from New Orleans via Atlanta
- Accommodation throughout
- 10 days fully inclusive compact SUV car hire
- This holiday is 100% financially protected. ATOL protected 2713
Explore the American Deep South on an unforgettable 10-day road trip. Begin in Atlanta, before travelling to Chattanooga, where scenic landscapes and Southern charm await. Continue to Nashville, the legendary home of country music, followed by two nights in Memphis, where you can discover the roots of blues, soul and rock ’n’ roll. From there, journey south to historic Natchez, renowned for its beautiful antebellum homes and Mississippi River views, before finishing with two nights in the vibrant city of New Orleans. With a fantastic mix of iconic music cities, Southern hospitality, scenic drives and incredible food, this itinerary is the perfect introduction to the culture, character and rhythm of the Deep South.
Our suggested itinerary is a starting point
We're specialists in tailor-made holidays, where we can adapt each itinerary to suit your requirements
Day 1 Atlanta
Pick up your hire car and begin in Atlanta, a bustling city with a glittering skyline and charming neighbourhoods. At the Centennial Olympic Park, you’ll find the World of Coca-Cola, CNN’s global headquarters and the National Centre for Civil and Human Rights all within steps of each other. When it’s time to refuel, choose from upscale gourmet cuisine to Southern staples and international fare.
Days 2-3 Chattanooga
Hit the road and head for Chattanooga in Tennessee, a friendly walkable city with plenty of unique things to do. Make sure you take in the revitalised riverfront district and see the Chattanooga Choo Choo Terminal Station Complex, a 1909 railway station made famous by the song Chattanooga Choo Choo.
Days 4-5 Nashville
On your way out of the city, consider visiting Lookout Mountain for a ride on the Incline Railway, one of the world’s steepest passenger railways. Arrive in Nashville and explore ‘Music City’ at your leisure. Its many attractions include the legendary Grand Ole Opry, world-renowned Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum, historic RCA Studio B and the Johnny Cash Museum.
Days 6-7 Memphis
Drive to Memphis, where music of a different beat reigns supreme: blues, soul and rock ‘n’ roll. Wander along Beale Street, where greats like WC Handy and BB King performed, head to Sun Studio where musical giants such as Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash got their start. Visit the Memphis Rock ‘n’Soul Museum, Stax Museum of American Soul Music and Graceland, the most famous address in rock ‘n’ roll. Beyond the music is the National Civil Rights Museum, sited where Dr Martin Luther King Jr lost his life.
Day 8 Natchez
Spend one night in Natchez, a charming historic city perched above the Mississippi River and renowned for its beautiful antebellum homes and Southern hospitality. Take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets, admire the grand architecture and enjoy the peaceful riverfront setting before continuing your journey.
Days 9-10 New Orleans
Louisiana beckons next and its most famous city, New Orleans where the sound of jazz and Creole aromas fill the air. Spend the day discovering the vibrant character of the Big Easy, starting in the iconic French Quarter and taking in highlights such as Jackson Square, Bourbon Street and the French Market. Wander along Royal Street, renowned for its elegant antique shops, art galleries and unique boutiques.
As evening falls, experience New Orleans’ legendary food scene before soaking up the city’s famous live music, with plenty of venues offering the perfect way to end the day.
Day 11 New Orleans
Return your car to the airport for your onward journey home.
Need to know
Tour price
Flights to Atlanta and home from New Orleans via Atlanta with Virgin Atlantic. Prepayable taxes. Regional supplements are available from Manchester from £175. Other regional airports may be available, please ask for details. Mandatory Fees Payable Locally: Hotel fee: £25
Terms and conditions
Subject to availability, terms and conditions apply.
Classic Deep South
SELF-DRIVE tour
Local fees
Mandatory Fees Payable Locally: Hotel fee: £25
