Rail journey · APT · 12 nights

Tracks of the Deep South

Amtrak's City of New Orleans service included for your rail journey
Guided tours of Biltmore House, Jack Daniel's Distillery, and Country Music Hall of Fame
Lookout Mountain Incline Railway ride, one of the world's steepest passenger railways

From

$10,995 pp twin share

$15,895 pp solo share

12 nights

Enquire

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Tracks of the Deep South

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Departs 3 September 2026 Returns 13 October 2026

Duration12 nights

OperatorAPT

StyleRail journey

HighlightRail journey through America's Deep South, from Charlotte to New Orleans via Nashville and Memphis

Ride the historic Great Smoky Mountains Railroad through Tennessee and Nantahala Rivers. Experience live Grand Ole Opry performance and visit legendary RCA Studio B in Nashville. Travel aboard Amtrak's City of New…

Take to the rails on a journey through the iconic south of the USA, feeling its rhythmic heart in Nashville and Memphis, and absorbing the melting pot of New Orleans.

$10,995

pp twin share

$15,895

pp solo share

Enquire

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When & how much

Departures & Pricing

Departs

3 September 2026

Returns

13 October 2026

Duration

12 nights

From pp twin share

$10,995 pp

From pp solo cabin

$15,895 pp

03 Sep 2026 - 15 Sep 2026
from $10,995 pp twin share / $15,895 pp solo *
01 Oct 2026 - 13 Oct 2026
from $11,195 pp twin share / $16,195 pp solo *

* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.

Upgrades, transfers, accommodation and more can be quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.

Day by day

Itinerary

1
Arrive Charlotte
Your journey through America’s Deep South begins today upon arrival in Charlotte, where you’ll be greeted and transferred to our centrally located hotel. Known as Uptown due to its position on a gentle ridge, this sleek, modern city boasts a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Wander through its pedestrian-friendly streets and enjoy a diverse range of restaurants, perfect for your dinner outing this evening.
2
Charlotte, Gatlinburg
Travel by coach to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, with a stop in Asheville, nestled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains. Visit the iconic Biltmore House, the former home of railroad magnate George Vanderbilt and his family. After touring the estate, enjoy a buffet lunch at the Stable Café, followed by a self-guided exploration of this magnificent, historic mansion.
Continue your journey to Gatlinburg, a charming mountain resort town located at the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend time exploring the town, where you’ll find an array of local restaurants serving classic Deep South fare, steakhouses, Cajun cuisine, as well as a local brewery and a 'moonshine' distillery.
3
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
Embark on a tour highlight as you journey into the heart of the Smoky Mountains National Park aboard the historic Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. Travel along the picturesque Tennessee and Nantahala Rivers, crossing a historic bridge into the breathtaking Nantahala Gorge. Relax and take in the spectacular scenery during this four-hour journey, with a selection of onboard dining options available to enhance your experience.
After your scenic ride, we’ll transfer back to our hotel in Gatlinburg. This evening, you’ll have another opportunity to indulge in delicious Southern cuisine at one of the town's charming restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to try local specialties, such as creamy clam chowder, crab stuffed with shrimp, and golden seafood hush puppies.
4
Gatlinburg, Chattanooga
Embark on a journey to Chattanooga, nestled along the banks of the Tennessee River and renowned for its historic railways, all set against the backdrop of the stunning Appalachian Mountains. Known as the "Scenic City," Chattanooga lives up to its name with incredible views at every turn. Board the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway, one of the steepest passenger railways in the world, and take in panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscape.
After your exhilarating ride, return to Chattanooga to check into your hotel. Spend the afternoon exploring this vibrant city, where you can enjoy a mix of Southern-style eateries, lively bars, and authentic bluegrass music venues.
5
Chattanooga, Nashville
En route to Nashville, visit the iconic Jack Daniel’s Distillery for a guided tour and whiskey tasting. This historic distillery has been crafting its world-famous whiskey since the 1860s, and the tour offers a fascinating insight into the production process.
Continue on to Nashville, a city that has been synonymous with country music since the 1940s. Explore Music Row, home to countless recording studios and record labels, and the legendary Ryman Auditorium, which hosted the Grand Ole Opry for over three decades.
In the early evening, we’ll visit one of Nashville’s most celebrated institutions, the Grand Ole Opry itself, where you’ll enjoy a live performance. This unforgettable experience provides an excellent introduction to the city’s rich musical heritage.
6
Nashville
This morning, immerse yourself in Nashville's rich musical heritage on a guided tour that takes you to the city's most iconic sights. Visit the legendary RCA Studio B, where music legends such as Elvis Presley, The Everly Brothers, and Dolly Parton recorded hits and crafted timeless songs.
The tour concludes at the renowned Country Music Hall of Fame, the largest music museum in the world, where you’ll discover the fascinating history of country music and its most influential stars.
The remainder of the day is free for you to explore Nashville at your leisure, whether you choose to soak in the lively atmosphere of Broadway or enjoy the city's thriving music scene.
7
Nashville
Today is yours to explore Nashville at your own pace. For history enthusiasts, you may wish to take a tour that delves into the city’s Civil War and plantation heritage, offering a deeper understanding of Nashville’s past.
Alternatively, immerse yourself in the local music scene with a walking tour that highlights Nashville’s famous honky-tonk history, where live music spills out of the bars and fills the streets with vibrant energy.
If you’re in the mood to indulge, Nashville’s diverse array of cafes, bars, and restaurants offers plenty of dining options (own expense) for you to savour the city’s unique Southern flavours.
8
Nashville, Jackson, Memphis
Today, travel to Jackson, Tennessee, a significant city in the Civil Rights Movement. You may choose to visit the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Centre (own expense) before continuing to Memphis, located on the mighty Mississippi River, known for its rich musical history and iconic landmarks.
9
Memphis
Start your day at Graceland, Elvis Presley’s iconic home, where you can explore his living quarters, memorabilia, and car collection. In the afternoon, visit Sun Studio, the ‘birthplace of rock 'n' roll’, where legends like Howlin' Wolf and BB King recorded their hits. After returning to your hotel, enjoy free time to explore Beale Street, known for its vibrant atmosphere and live music, where the sounds of blues and rock 'n' roll fill the air.
10
Memphis, Hammond, New Orleans
This morning, board Amtrak’s City of New Orleans service, journeying through Mississippi towards Louisiana. Along the way, stop in Hammond for a visit to Oak Alley Plantation, perched on the banks of the Mississippi River, before continuing on to New Orleans for a three-night stay.
Insider Experience - Journey Through the Heart of the Blues
Travel aboard the iconic City of New Orleans service, a route famously associated with the spread of blues music. As you pass through the charming towns of Brookhaven and McComb, you’ll be led into the vibrant Cajun swamps of the Louisiana Bayou, immersing yourself in the rich cultural landscape of this legendary region.
11
New Orleans
This morning, embark on a guided tour of New Orleans’ vibrant French Quarter, with a stop at Café Du Monde for a classic beignet and coffee. After lunch, enjoy a scenic Mississippi River cruise, accompanied by a local historian, as you journey to the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and the historic Chalmette Battlefield. Known as the ‘Big Easy’, New Orleans is celebrated for its unique architecture, blending Spanish, French, Creole, and American influences. Take time to explore the streets or indulge in the city's world-renowned cuisine.
12
New Orleans
Today, continue your discovery of New Orleans with time at leisure. Perhaps walk to the Mardi Gras Grandstand, the venue for the city’s famous annual parade.
13
Depart New Orleans
This morning, your journey comes to an end as you are transferred to the airport for your onward flight.

What you get for the price

Inclusions & exclusions

What’s included

Amtrak’s City of New Orleans service.
Day 1 highlights Arrive Charlotte:
Your journey through America’s Deep South begins today upon arrival in Charlotte, where you’ll be greeted and transferred to our centrally located hotel. Known as Uptown due to its position on a gentle ridge, this sleek, modern city boasts a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Wander through its pedestrian-friendly streets and enjoy a diverse range of restaurants, perfect for your dinner outing this evening.
.
Day 2 highlights Charlotte, Gatlinburg:
Travel by coach to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, with a stop in Asheville, nestled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains. Visit the iconic Biltmore House, the former home of railroad magnate George Vanderbilt and his family. After touring the estate, enjoy a buffet lunch at the Stable Café, followed by a self-guided exploration of this magnificent, historic mansion.
Continue your journey to Gatlinburg, a charming mountain resort town located at the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend time exploring the town, where you’ll find an array of local restaurants serving classic Deep South fare, steakhouses, Cajun cuisine, as well as a local brewery and a 'moonshine' distillery.
.

Where you’ll stay