Louisiana – Florida road trip

Located on the banks of the Mississippi River in southern Louisiana, New Orleans—also known as “NOLA” or “The Big Easy”—is famous for its vibrant nightlife, diverse music scene, and unshakable urban spirit. The city continues to thrive, supported by its loyal residents and the many visitors who fall under its spell.

During your stay, stroll through the iconic French Quarter, savor the local culinary specialties, and enjoy a steamboat cruise along the Mississippi. A guided visit of Oak Alley Plantation is also included, offering insight into the region’s southern heritage and grand architecture.

Departure for Pensacola, with a 3-hour drive from New Orleans. You will follow the coast and cross the states of Mississippi and Alabama to reach Florida. In Pensacola, you will discover nearly 500 years of history, unique shops and luxurious places to stay. If you are lucky, you will even be able to attend the training of the Blue Angels, the American Navy’s fighter jet aerobatic patrol.
New Orleans to Pensacola: 187 miles, 3 hours

Departure for Panama City Beach, a charming seaside town in northwest Florida, about 2 hours away. It is known for its miles of white sand beaches along the calm, clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico. St. Andrews State Park, one of two nearby protected nature reserves, features hiking trails and fishing piers. This stop is perfect for some relaxation, with accommodations near the seaside, allowing you to fully enjoy the coastal atmosphere.

From Pensacola to Panama City Beach: 134 miles, 2 hours

After a few hours of driving, you will arrive in Crystal River, the only refuge in the U.S. entirely dedicated to the protection of manatees. You can visit the visitor center and its exhibits, or explore the natural site of Three Sisters Springs. To swim or paddle in the crystal-clear waters, you can rent a boat, or put on a wetsuit and snorkel to immerse yourself in the magical underwater world of manatees. For this stop, you will stay at the Plantation on Crystal River, a hotel perfectly located to enjoy the area’s outdoor activities and natural surroundings.

From Panama City Beach to Crystal River: 276 miles, 4h30

Today, you’re heading to Orlando, the world’s capital of theme parks. Within less than two hours’ drive, legendary attractions like Universal Studios, Walt Disney World, and SeaWorld await, along with countless others for visitors of all ages. Be sure to experience the brand-new Epic Universe, Universal’s latest and most ambitious park, featuring cutting-edge immersive worlds inspired by Harry Potter, Super Nintendo, and more. With over a dozen parks to choose from, Orlando promises thrills, family fun, and truly unforgettable memories. You’ll be staying in a hotel ideally located near the parks you’ve chosen to explore.

From Crystal River to Orlando: 94 miles, 1h45

During your stop in Cocoa Beach, you’ll have the option to spend the day relaxing on the beach or exploring the world-renowned Kennedy Space Center. Located just outside Orlando, this iconic Cape Canaveral site is where NASA launched its space shuttles. Far more than a theme park, the Kennedy Space Center in Merritt Island offers a fascinating blend of history, science, and space exploration. Discover interactive exhibits, immersive attractions, and—if you’re lucky—catch a rocket launch during your visit. A truly unique and inspiring experience.

From Orlando to Cocoa Beach: 59 miles, 1h

Located about 3 hours south of Cocoa Beach, Miami is known for its white sand beaches, warm climate, delicious cuisine, Cuban coffee, and strong Latin American influences. Highlights include Miami Beach, South Beach, Zoo Miami, Bayside Marketplace, Little Havana, Ocean Drive, and the open-air art district of Wynwood. With over 6 million residents spread across 34 municipalities over 175 kilometers, the city is full of energy year-round. Whether by land or sea, the possibilities are endless. An excursion to the Everglades is included, giving you the chance to explore this unique and untamed natural environment.

From Cocoa Beach to Miami: 195 miles, 3h

Key Largo is the first and largest of the fabulous Florida Keys, often called the diving capital of the world. Just 1 hour south of Miami, it’s home to the world’s largest artificial reef, the USS Spiegel Grove, the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, and the iconic African Queen steamboat. The Everglades National Park is just minutes away. Whether you choose scuba diving, snorkeling, glass-bottom boat tours, or simply sipping a tropical cocktail while enjoying the sunset, Key Largo offers something for everyone — from adventure seekers to relaxed travelers.

From Miami to Key Largo: 66 miles, 1h15