Nashville, Memphis & New Orleans with Viking River Cruises
Embark on a Viking Mississippi River Cruise from Memphis to New Orleans and experience the heart of America’s musical South. Discover Nashville’s country music, Memphis’s blues, and the jazz-filled streets of New Orleans on this unforgettable Southern adventure. Cruise in luxury aboard the Viking Mississippi, exploring historic plantations, charming river towns, and cultural landmarks like the Vicksburg battlefield. Indulge in authentic Cajun, Creole, and Memphis barbecue cuisine while soaking up the spirit of the Deep South.
With return flights, hand-picked hotels, and seamless private transfers from Paramount Cruises, this itinerary blends comfort, culture, and rhythm, making it the ultimate Mississippi River Cruise holiday and an enriching way to experience the true soul of the American South.
Southern USA & Viking Mississippi River Cruise Holidays
Set sail on Viking Mississippi in 2026 or 2027 and explore the best of the Deep South. Discover New Orleans, Memphis and Nashville with expertly curated hotels, excursions and seamless travel from Paramount Cruises.
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Nashville – The Heartbeat of Country Music
Your journey begins in Nashville, the vibrant heart of country music and one of America’s most exciting cultural cities. Walk along Broadway where neon lights shine above lively honky tonks and live bands fill the air. Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame to explore the legends who shaped generations of sound. Spend an evening at the Grand Ole Opry and experience the magic of live performance. Discover East Nashville and Germantown with creative shops, rooftop bars and Southern cuisine that define true Tennessee charm.
Memphis – Where Music Made History
Continue your journey to Memphis, Tennessee, the vibrant home of blues, soul, and rock ’n’ roll. Visit Graceland, the legendary estate of Elvis Presley, and relive the King’s legacy on the Elvis Experience Tour. Step inside Sun Studio, where icons like Johnny Cash and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded the hits that shaped music history. Explore the city’s rhythm on the Big Mojo Music History Tour, uncovering Memphis’s deep ties to soul, gospel, and R&B. As night falls, stroll down Beale Street, where live music, neon lights, and southern charm create an unforgettable atmosphere. With its rich musical heritage, warm hospitality, and world-famous Memphis barbecue, this city embodies the true spirit of the American South.
⚓ Memphis, Tennessee
Your Viking Mississippi River Cruise begins in Memphis, Tennessee, a city filled with music, history and Southern charm. Overlooking the Mississippi River, Memphis is known as the birthplace of the blues and the home of B.B. King and Elvis Presley. Stroll along Beale Street, where live music fills the air, and visit Graceland, Sun Studio and the Stax Museum of American Soul Music to explore the city’s legendary heritage. Indulge in mouth-watering barbecue and discover the moving exhibits at the National Civil Rights Museum. Memphis sets the tone for an unforgettable journey through America’s musical heartland.
⚓ Greenville, Mississippi
Set on the banks of the Mississippi River, Greenville is the region’s largest river port and a hidden gem of the Deep South. Known for its welcoming charm and rich cultural heritage, this city blends small-town warmth with artistic history. Jim Henson, creator of the Muppets, was born here, and Greenville has inspired many writers, including historian Shelby Foote. Music also runs deep in its roots. W.C. Handy found inspiration here to popularise the blues after hearing Prince McCoy, while nearby Indianola was the hometown of the legendary B.B. King. Discover Greenville’s unique blend of creativity, culture and Mississippi spirit.
⚓ Vicksburg, Mississippi
Perched on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River, Vicksburg is a city rich in Southern history and charm. Established in 1825, its strategic riverfront location made it a vital port and trading centre. During the Civil War, Abraham Lincoln called Vicksburg “the key to the South,” and it became the site of one of the war’s most decisive battles. Today, the Vicksburg National Military Park preserves the rolling landscapes where Union and Confederate forces once clashed, featuring monuments, memorials and historic cannon displays. Blending fascinating history with classic Southern beauty, Vicksburg offers a powerful glimpse into America’s past along the Mississippi River.
⚓ Natchez, Mississippi
Set on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River, Natchez is one of the South’s most historic and picturesque cities. Founded in 1716 by French colonists, it is the oldest settlement on the Mississippi and is named after the Natchez people who once lived here. The city is famous for its beautiful antebellum homes, with more than 200 perfectly preserved estates lining its oak-shaded streets. Once a key stop on the Natchez Trace, the overland route that linked the Gulf Coast to Nashville, Natchez flourished as a trading centre and cultural crossroads. Today, it offers a charming glimpse of small-town America steeped in history and Southern grace.
⚓ St. Francisville, Louisiana
Nestled on a scenic bluff above the Mississippi River, St. Francisville is one of Louisiana’s most historic small towns. Founded in 1809, it is the oldest settlement in the state’s Florida Parishes and is famous for its charming streets lined with antebellum architecture. The town boasts more than 140 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, many of which were relocated from the nearby community of Bayou Sara after years of flooding in the early 1900s. Known as the town that is “two miles long and two yards wide,” St. Francisville offers a peaceful glimpse into Louisiana’s past, where history, culture and Southern elegance meet along the river.
⚓ Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Set along the eastern bank of the Mississippi River, Baton Rouge offers a captivating mix of history, culture and Southern charm. Founded on a bluff that kept it safe from flooding, the city’s name, meaning “red stick” in French, was inspired by a crimson pole that once marked tribal hunting grounds. Baton Rouge’s diverse heritage is reflected in its Cajun and Creole music, vibrant art scene and distinctive cuisine. As Louisiana’s capital, it is home to the tallest Capitol building in the United States and many fascinating museums. With its rich history and welcoming atmosphere, Baton Rouge provides a lively glimpse into the cultural heart of Louisiana.
⚓ Darrow, Louisiana
Nestled along the Lower Mississippi River, Darrow serves as the gateway to Louisiana’s most magnificent plantation homes. This scenic region is lined with grand estates surrounded by moss-covered oak trees and fertile farmland, preserving the spirit of the Old South. Once a thriving stop for riverboats delivering goods to these stately homes, Darrow still reflects the grace and craftsmanship of a bygone era. Many of its historic mansions are now recognised as National Historic Landmarks, celebrated for their elegant architecture, landscaped gardens and enduring cultural significance. Today, visitors can explore these remarkable properties and gain a fascinating glimpse into early Southern American history.
⚓ New Orleans, Louisiana
Disembark your Viking Mississippi River Cruise and settle into the rhythm of New Orleans. Your journey continues in this vibrant city where jazz fills the air and every street tells a story. Enjoy time to explore at your own pace, stroll through the French Quarter, savour authentic Creole and Cajun flavours, or unwind to the sound of live music on Frenchmen Street. With so much to see and experience, New Orleans is the perfect place to reflect on your voyage and embrace the spirit of the South before your journey home.
New Orleans – The Spirit of the South
Your journey culminates in New Orleans, a city bursting with music, colour, and culture. Sail the mighty Mississippi River aboard the Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise, where live jazz and glittering skyline views create an unforgettable night. Explore the iconic French Quarter, with its wrought-iron balconies, vibrant streets, and timeless rhythms. Venture beyond Bourbon Street to Frenchmen Street, home to authentic jazz clubs and local soul. Savour Creole and Cajun cuisine, from spicy gumbo to sweet beignets, and taste the city’s culinary magic. Visit the acclaimed National WWII Museum, included in your excursion package, and let Paramount Cruises’ expert guides reveal hidden courtyards, legendary venues, and warm Southern hospitality. Experience the true spirit of New Orleans on this unforgettable adventure.
Excursion Package – Included Experiences
Our exclusive excursion package brings each destination to life with expert local guides and unforgettable experiences. We’ve handpicked our favourite tours and attractions to help you make the most of your time in the Deep South.
Included Experiences:
👩🎤 Grand Ole Opry Show Ticket
🤠 Country Music Hall of Fame Entry
🕺 Graceland Elvis Experience Tour
🎙️ Memphis: Big Mojo Sun Studio & Music History 3-Hour Bus Tour
🎷 Steamboat Natchez: Daytime Mississippi Jazz Cruise
🪖 The National WWII Museum Entry
🚕 £25 per person Uber Credit for local journeys
🎫 Exclusive Paramount Cruises Music Cities Guidebook & Discount Vouchers
Why Book with Paramount Cruises
At Paramount Cruises, your holiday is protected and hassle-free. As an ABTA and ATOL-licensed travel company, you can book with complete confidence, knowing that your journey is secure from start to finish.
We bring together expert cruise knowledge and a genuine passion for the Deep South of America, having personally escorted thousands of guests through Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans. Working closely with official tourist boards, our specialists carefully handpick each hotel, excursion and transfer to ensure every detail meets our exacting standards.
Unlike many agents, we’ve personally stayed in every hotel we feature. Each property has been selected for its outstanding comfort, character and location, placing you right at the heart of the action, close to the music, food and culture that make these cities unique.
Every Paramount Cruises holiday is crafted for authenticity, comfort and unforgettable experiences. When you travel with us, you’re guided by true destination experts who know these cities inside out, because your holiday deserves to be every bit as extraordinary as the places you explore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about our Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans holiday with Viking Mississippi. If your question is not answered below, our cruise specialists are happy to help.
This comprehensive holiday includes return flights with baggage, airport transfers, and an incredible blend of city stays and river cruising. Enjoy 3 nights in Nashville, 3 nights in Memphis, and 2 nights in New Orleans, along with a luxury coach transfer between Nashville and Memphis. The Viking Mississippi River Cruise features all meals, complimentary drinks with lunch and dinner, free Wi-Fi, one shore excursion per port, port taxes, gratuities, and onboard enrichment activities.
Your Ultimate Music Cities Excursion Package brings the Deep South to life with expert local guides and handpicked experiences, including:
- 🎤 Grand Ole Opry Show Ticket
- 🎸 Country Music Hall of Fame Entry
- 🕺 Graceland Elvis Experience Tour
- 🎙️ Memphis Big Mojo Sun Studio & Music History Tour
- 🎷 Steamboat Natchez Daytime Jazz Cruise
- 🪖 National WWII Museum Entry
Plus, receive £25 Uber credit per person for local journeys and an exclusive Paramount Cruises Music Cities Guidebook and Discount Vouchers.
Yes. Every Viking cruise includes all onboard meals, featuring regional dishes and classic favourites. Beer, wine, and soft drinks are served with lunch and dinner, and guests enjoy 24-hour access to coffee, tea, and bottled water. Meals during the land stays are at leisure, allowing you to savour local cuisine, from Nashville hot chicken to New Orleans gumbo.
Absolutely. All onboard gratuities, port charges, and taxes are included. You’ll also enjoy airport transfers and a luxury coach journey from Nashville to Memphis, ensuring a seamless and stress-free holiday from start to finish.
During your stay, enjoy hand-picked 4-star hotels in Nashville, Memphis, and New Orleans, each chosen for comfort, location, and authentic Southern character. Onboard the Viking Mississippi, your elegant stateroom includes a private veranda, hotel-style bed, and modern amenities for ultimate relaxation.
Yes. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available on the ship, and your cruise features enriching lectures, live entertainment, and cultural performances. Each port offers a free guided excursion, plus optional tours for guests who wish to explore further.
This itinerary is ideal for music lovers, culture seekers, and travellers who want to experience the authentic rhythm of the Deep South. From legendary music venues to historic landmarks and river cruising luxury, it offers a perfect mix of comfort, culture, and discovery.
There’s so much more to discover in these incredible cities beyond their legendary music scenes. In Nashville, explore the vibrant galleries and street art murals of The Gulch, stroll through Centennial Park to see the full-scale Parthenon, or sample local whiskey (or even moonshine) at one of the city’s craft distilleries. In Memphis, visit the moving National Civil Rights Museum, watch the famous Peabody Ducks march through the historic Peabody Hotel, or take in sweeping views from Big River Crossing, the longest pedestrian bridge over the Mississippi. In New Orleans, wander through the elegant Garden District, explore one of the city’s beautiful historic cemeteries, or join a voodoo and ghost walking tour for something truly unforgettable. Each city has its own stories, sights and surprises waiting to be explored.
The Deep South is as famous for its flavours as it is for its music. In Nashville, try the city’s signature hot chicken or a plate of biscuits and gravy at one of our favourite local diners, then end the evening with craft cocktails and live music in the Gulch or 12South neighbourhoods. In Memphis, nothing beats slow-smoked barbecue. Head to Central BBQ or The Rendezvous for ribs done right, then enjoy a nightcap at a soulful speakeasy in Cooper-Young. In New Orleans, indulge in Creole and Cajun classics like gumbo, jambalaya and po’ boys, and don’t miss beignets at Café du Monde or jazz brunch at Commander’s Palace. Every city serves up its own distinctive taste of the South, and our team’s recommendations will help you find the best of them.
Yes. Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans are welcoming, vibrant cities. As with any urban destination, staying aware of your surroundings and following local advice ensures a comfortable and enjoyable visit. We include Uber credit for short local journeys for added convenience.
British travellers will need to apply for an ESTA through the US Visa Waiver Program. The process is quick and easy online, and approval is typically granted within a few days.
As an ABTA and ATOL-protected company, Paramount Cruises ensures every detail of your journey is expertly arranged and fully protected. Our team has personally travelled through Nashville, Memphis, and New Orleans, hand-selecting hotels, excursions, and experiences to guarantee an unforgettable and worry free holiday.
Viking Mississippi sails between Memphis and New Orleans for most of the year, with departures from January to June and again from October to December. The ship moves to the Ohio River and the upper Mississippi during high summer, so there are no Memphis to New Orleans sailings in July, August or September. Spring and autumn bring the mildest weather, while January, February and December departures are usually the best value.
It depends on the season, the cabin grade and how much of the trip is included. As a guide, a seven night Memphis to New Orleans cruise with return flights from the UK starts from around £4,300 per person, rising above £5,000 per person for the busiest spring and autumn dates. Our full Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans package, which adds eight hotel nights, private transfers and an excursion package, starts from £5,999 per person. Prices move with availability, so please contact us for a live quote.
Two lines currently sail the Lower Mississippi between Memphis and New Orleans: Viking and American Cruise Lines. American Queen Voyages stopped trading in 2024 and no longer operates. We specialise in Viking Mississippi, the line's only US river ship, which carries 386 guests in 193 outside staterooms, is adults only, and includes return flights, transfers, wine and beer with lunch and dinner, Wi-Fi and gratuities in the fare. If you would like to talk it through before you book, our cruise specialists are happy to help.