New Orleans Destination Guide

  Places to See in New Orleans

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  Public Transport in New Orleans

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Transportation
Guide to Public Transport in New Orleans

Buses
RTA runs the public buses in the city centre, although Jefferson Transit is responsible for the transfer from the airport to the city. Bus fare in the city is USD1.25 plus 25 cents for transfers (ask the driver if you need a transfer ticket for your journey). The exact fare or an appropriate travel pass is required for each journey. The VisiTour Pass costs USD5 for one day or USD12 for three, and allows unlimited use of public transport. The pass can be bought in hotels, banks and stores.

The main intercity bus terminal can be found next to the train station at 1001 Loyola Ave. Greyhound National Coach runs services from here to cities across the United States. Tel: +1 (1)504-524-7571 for information on Greyhound buses.

Streetcars
The Riverfront Streetcar covers a 1.9-mile stretch along the Mississippi River from Thalia to Esplanade. Another line, the Charles St line, runs from the corner of St Charles and Canal Streets up to the intersection of Carrolton and Claiborne Streets. The streetcar operates 06h00-00h00 on weekdays, and 08h00-00h00 on weekends. One-way fare for the St Charles Line is USD1.25, and USD1.50 for the Riverfront Line. The VisiTour Pass allows unlimited rides and is available at a cost of USD5 for one day or USD12 for three.

Trains
The main train station, the "New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal", is on Loyola Ave. Amtrak runs trains from here across the country, to cities including Chicago, Memphis, New York, Orlando, and Los Angeles, all with daily departures. For Amtrak trains, Tel: +1 (1)800-USA-RAIL.

Driving
In New Orleans itself, it is not necessary to drive within the city, as the major attractions are all within walking distance, or only a short taxi ride away. Many pubs and clubs that are off the main drags of Bourbon St and immediate surroudings suggest that you take a short cab ride rather than walk to them, but otherwise you should be fine without private transport in the city.

However, should you wish to visit attractions outside the main districts of downtown New Orleans, a car may be advisable, and would certainly be cheaper than constant taxi fares.

A valid driver's licence is all that is needed to drive in the USA. Check with your car rental company for further rental requirements. The speed limit is 88-104km per hour (55-65mph) on motorways, 56-64km per hour (35-40mph) in commercial areas, and 24-40km per hour (15-25mph) in residential areas. Distances and speed restrictions are posted in miles throughout the US.

The driver and all passengers in the front and rear are required to wear a seatbelt at all times. Driving is on the right.

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Taxis
There is no shortage of cabs in New Orleans. In the French Quarter, taxis are readily available from ranks or by simply flagging one down. Note that if you're travelling outside of the main tourist areas after dark it is always advisable to take a cab, even for a short distance. The Garden District, N Rampart St and the Esplanade are considered risky areas at night. All cabs are metered and prices are pretty reasonable. Flagfall is USD2.50, with an additional USD1.60 per mile.

 

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