Are you a fan of the blues? Old time rock n’ roll? Have you always said you wanted to see Graceland someday? If a tour of America’s great music cities is music to your ears, maybe it’s time to turn someday into today.
When you travel with Collette you discover the world in a new way, because Collette tours approach things differently. They don’t just tick the usual tourist sights off, they design tours that go beyond the ordinary, to give you a holiday that exceeds your expectations and gives you more. More cultural experiences, more local knowledge and more must-see inclusions that will open your eyes and make memories that will last a lifetime. And the best part? They take care of all the details, so all you have to do is sit back, relax and enjoy the ride.
In this, the second of our Collette travel series we take you to America’s deep south, to experience its great music cities and the birthplace of more than one great genre, on a truly unforgettable eight-day tour.
Unique experiences
Embark on a one-of-a-kind tour of Memphis where local musicians share the story of the city’s musical heritage and history. Enjoy reserved seats at the Grand Ole Opry, the “home of American music.” Tour the historic RCA Studio B for an up-close look at Nashville’s oldest remaining recording studio.
The must-see’s
Visit Graceland, the palatial home of Elvis Presley. Explore the Country Music Hall of Fame, the largest museum of popular music in the world. Visit the historic Ryman Auditorium.

Savour the best of southern hospitality
This tour includes 10 meals in your package featuring some truly unique culinary experiences, including Creole delights at a favourite French Quarter restaurant in New Orleans, a true New Orleans favourite — beignets at Café Du Monde, and a deliciously indulgent king cake tasting at Mardi Gras World.
Option: Start your trip early with an extra night to explore the incredible city they call “the big easy”, New Orleans.
Day 1: New Orleans, Louisiana – Tour Begins
Step back in time on a cultural getaway that opens in the “Jazz Capital of the World.” This soulful city abounds with rich history, mouth-watering Cajun and Creole cuisine, and of course, an incomparable soundtrack.
Day 2: Choose French Quarter Walking Tour or Motorcoach Tour of New Orleans
It’s your choice! Embark on a walking tour of New Orleans’ famous French Quarter where you’ll see the majestic St. Louis Cathedral, one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks. Continue to the bustling French Marketplace where you’ll explore Pirates Alley and view the Cabildo, the Presbytere and the Pontalba -OR- set out on a panoramic motorcoach tour of New Orleans with a local guide that begins along historic Esplanade Avenue and rolls on to see St. Louis Cemetery #3, which opened in 1854 and holds some of the most elaborate crypts found in the city’s cemeteries. Relax during a drive along the shoreline of Lake Pontchartrain. This romantic road eventually leads to St. Charles Avenue, whisking you past gorgeous mansions and two world-famous universities, Loyola and Tulane. Whichever you choose, you’ll stop to taste a true New Orleans favourite – beignets at the famed Café Du Monde. Tonight, get to know your travel companions at a festive New Orleans-style welcome dinner. Today breakfast and dinner will be included.

Day 3: New Orleans
Journey through Louisiana’s swamp on a cruise* narrated by the captain himself. Learn about the history and ecology of this fascinating ecosystem while keeping an eye out for wildlife including bald eagles, herons, turtles and alligators! Then, celebrate the festive side of New Orleans at Mardi Gras World, the working warehouse where artisans create the spectacular floats for the famous parades. You’ll even get to indulge in a tasting of king cake. Tonight, enjoy dinner on your own before meeting your Tour Manager and fellow travel companions at Maison Bourbon, a live jazz club in the French Quarter. Today breakfast will be included.
Day 4: New Orleans – Memphis, Tennessee
Travel north to Memphis, the birthplace of the Blues, Rock ‘n’ Roll and Soul. Enjoy Southern hospitality at your hotel just steps away from the iconic Graceland. Today breakfast and dinner will be included.
Day 5: Memphis
This morning, put on your blue suede shoes and get ready to visit Graceland, the palatial home of the King himself, Elvis Presley. Enter Elvis’ 14-acre estate and visit his home, original business office, trophy building with exhibits depicting Elvis’ life at Graceland, racquetball building, and the Meditation Garden, where Elvis and members of his family have been laid to rest. Then head out on a one-of-a-kind tour of the city of Memphis. You may be tempted to sing along as local musicians board the coach to tell the stories of Memphis’ musical heritage and its rich history. The remainder of your day is free to enjoy this city’s vast musical offerings. You may wish to spend more time at Graceland or join an optional Memphis Musical History Tour with dinner. Today breakfast will be included.

Day 6: Memphis – Nashville
Roll along Music Highway to the “Music Capital of the World,” Nashville! We’ll make a stop at the West Delta Heritage Centre to discover the roots of the country blues sound that originated in West Tennessee. The Queen of Rock, Tina Turner, was born here in Brownsville, so it’s only fitting that there’s an exhibit dedicated to her. When you arrive in Nashville, enjoy a tour of the historic Ryman Auditorium, the original home of the Grand Ole Opry! This evening, take your reserved seat at the renowned Grand Ole Opry. What began as a building where a local radio broadcast show aired once a week in 1925 has grown to become an entertainment complex that attracts music fans from all over the world. Today breakfast will be included.
Day 7: Nashville
Your day begins with a tour of RCA Studio B giving you an insider’s look at Nashville’s oldest remaining recording studio, where Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton and Charlie Pride once recorded some of their classic hits. Learn how each artist recorded their chart-topping music in this famous studio – you may even have the opportunity to record your own hit! Then, explore the Country Music Hall of Fame, the largest museum of popular music in the world. Check out the museum’s vast collections of memorabilia, costumes, recordings and instruments, artfully presented in cutting-edge exhibits that relay the colourful histories of country music and its artists. Afterwards, discover the flavour of the region at a family-owned distillery when you tour the facility and taste its Tennessee whiskey. Today breakfast and dinner will be included.
Day 8: Nashville – Tour Ends
Your rockin’ musical journey comes to a close today. Today breakfast will be included.
Accommodation
Days 1 – 3 Sheraton Hotel, New Orleans, LA
Days 4, 5 The Guest House at Graceland, Memphis, TN
Days 6, 7 Gaylord Opryland Resort, Nashville, TN
On some dates alternate hotels may be used.

More flexibility
Have your adventure your way with the great options Collette offers to personalise your trip, such as additional night stays, tour extensions, built-in free time and “It’s Your Choice” excursions.
Plus, Collette has the best tour managers, 4-star+ centrally located accommodation, and an industry leading travel protection plan, so you know you’re in the best hands.
Want to know more? Get in touch with one of Collette’s helpful travel consultants. Call 1300 027 254 or visit the Collette website to see this itinerary and 160 more across seven continents to start planning your trip of a lifetime.