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Cheap train tickets from New Orleans to Memphis

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4.8 Rating

5k Reviews

4.5 Rating

4.8k Reviews

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New Orleans to Memphis Train Timetable

Is it better to travel by bus or train from New Orleans to Memphis?

There are usually 2 daily bus trips from New Orleans to Memphis.

Coach
Train
Avg. Price
Avg. Price
US$53.06
Avg. Price
US$98.38
Daily Trips
Daily Trips
2
Daily Trips
1
Duration
Duration
7h 48m
Duration
8h 40m

Trip Summary

There is usually just one train option from New Orleans to Memphis per day. The average train journey from New Orleans to Memphis takes 8 hours and 40 minutes, though some trains might be a few minutes slower or faster.

Distance359 mi (578 km)
Fastest train8h 40m
Lowest priceUS$50.00
Trains per day1
Most frequent serviceAmtrak City of New Orleans
Train lines1

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Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from New Orleans to Memphis

(Based on 17 ratings and reviews)

4.8

4.0

JOYCE

18 September 2025- Vacation

Amtrak City of New Orleans

Pros: It was my husband and I first train ride. It was very relaxing and a travel method to take when not in a hurry. Overall, it was a good experience. Cons: When we first boarded the train, we were told that there were complaints about people listening to their phones without earphones/buds and that this was not allowed due to disturbing other people. Needless to say, someone still did this and it was very annoying, especially if this is your first train ride. This rule needs to be strictly enforced. It takes from the joy of riding the train. Tips: To be courteous to others traveling by not listening to loud cell phones.

5.0

Sara

1 June 2025- Vacation

Amtrak City of New Orleans

It’s was my 1st time & was a very nice experience.

4.0

robert

4 November 2024- Solo travel

Amtrak City of New Orleans

It was direct unlike a flight which would have involved at least one stopover which I did not want; and I didn't want to drive myself.

5.0

Marsha

14 June 2024- Vacation

Amtrak City of New Orleans

Number of stops for other trains

5.0

Karen

28 March 2024- Couples trip

Amtrak City of New Orleans

Pros: First time on a train, enjoyed the ride to New Orleans and back home to Memphis ☺️. Cons: Nothing. Tips: Plan in advance the to get the best price.

What is the price of a train ticket from New Orleans to Memphis?

In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from New Orleans to Memphis was US$61.00. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 22 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around US$36.75 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average train ticket prices from New Orleans to Memphis by travel date

US$135US$90US$45FebMar

Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from New Orleans to Memphis will cost between US$56 and US$133. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.

Monthly average prices

US$100US$80US$60US$40US$20MAMJJASONDJF

Ticket prices for the train from New Orleans to Memphis often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in January when the average ticket price is only US$76,

If you're thinking of traveling from New Orleans to Memphis during July, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of US$98 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in July, is to book your trip well in advance.

Prices as travel date approaches

US$125US$100US$75US$50US$253020100

If you're looking to save on your train trip from New Orleans to Memphis, book online with Wanderu at least 22 days in advance. That way, you’ll save US$36.75 compared to booking your ticket last minute.

Which train should you take from New Orleans to Memphis?

Amtrak City of New Orleans is the one and only train line which connects New Orleans to Memphis. Furthermore, there is only one train per day, so you will have to plan your travel around this limited availability. On the other hand, you won't have to spend a ton of time comparing a bunch of possible options.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak City of New Orleans18h 40mUS$95.91

  • The City of New Orleans is an Amtrak route that runs daily trains from Chicago to New Orleans and vice versa. The City of New Orleans includes a sightseer lounge with panoramic windows for the best views of the five states along the route. Affordable Coach seats cost about for a trip from New Orleans to Memphis. However, the City of New Orleans also offers private roomettes and bedrooms for added comfort and luxury (and a higher price). Passengers who book sleeper accommodations will enjoy included meals, and all passengers can stop into the cafe car to purchase meals and snacks.

Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from New Orleans to Memphis

The distance between New Orleans and Memphis is approximately 359 miles, or 578 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 8 hours and 40 minutes,

Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.

Tuesday tends to be the busiest day of the week with travelers taking trains from New Orleans to Memphis. Ticket price also tend to be more expensive on Tuesday than other days. If you are hoping to have more room on the train and even save some change check out travel options on Wednesday instead, as less people travel then and deals are more likely to be found.

Most days, there is only one train which leaves New Orleans at 13:00 and arrives in Memphis around 8 hours later.

Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. Luckily, this train will get you to Memphis with direct service. While there might still be stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains.

You can also take a train for your return trip from Memphis to New Orleans.

City Information

New Orleans

New Orleans, LA - NOL-0

Image credit: Unsplash

New Orleans, LA - NOL-1

Image credit: Unsplash

New Orleans, LA - NOL-2

Image credit: Unsplash

New Orleans is the most populous city in the southern state of Louisiana and one of the most popular party destinations in the whole world. Known as The Big Easy, New Orleans is famous for its distinct French-Spanish architecture, Creole cuisine, and unique music. Around the globe, New Orleans is best known as the host city of Mardi Gras, a late-winter carnival known for flashy costumes and never-ending street parties. Because of that, NOLA is consistently among the preferred vacation destinations among spring breakers and post-grad travelers.

There’s a lot more to New Orleans than just partying, though. While you’re in town, connect with the artistic side of your personality with a visit to the famed New Orleans Museum of Art where you will find the South’s most impressive collection of French and American art. A visit to the Big Easy will not be complete without stopping by some of the city’s iconic cemeteries. Whether you take a guided tour or you explore on your own, you will learn a lot about the area’s history and urban legends.

New Orleans is one of the main economic and commercial centers of the U.S. Gulf Coast region, and as such it is easily accessible by all kinds of transportation. The airport is located not too far from the city center, while the city’s main bus and train station, the Union Passenger Terminal, is placed right in the heart of downtown New Orleans.

Memphis

Nestled on the bank of the Mississippi River, Memphis is a city that constantly vibes to the rhythm of the South. Audiophiles who have fallen in love with the voice of Elvis Presley will find Graceland a must-see destination during their trip. Let the voices of Johnny Cash and B. B. King guide you to the famous Sun Studio, considered the birthplace of rock ‘n roll itself. As the day comes to an end, unwind at the famous Beale Street, where top musicians started out their career, and enjoy live music at one of the local theaters. You'll meet all sorts of visitors, and see why Memphis is one of the best destinations for bachelorette parties. The street also features some of the best restaurants in town, so make sure to check those out.

Memphis is more than just a musical center of the South. It was the vibrant center of the civil rights movement, and it was here that Martin Luther King Jr. took his last breath. Travelers interested in the city’s history should definitely take a tour around the National Civil Rights Museum. The moving and surreal exhibitions will offer a wealth of new perspectives.

Memphis' principal train hub is the Memphis Central Station, which has been in service since 1914. From there, you can travel by train to cities such as Chicago, Jackson, and Baton Rouge. On the outskirts of town, you will find the Memphis International Airport, and not far from it is the main bus stop used by Greyhound and other carriers.

Station Information

Where is the train station in New Orleans?

Union Term - 1001 Loyola Ave - NOLAMT-0

Image credit: David Wilson

Link to image attribution

Main departure station: Union Term - 1001 Loyola Ave

Opened in 1954 to replace the five depots spread throughout the city, the Union Passenger Terminal connects all of New Orleans’ passenger rail into one iconic building. To this day, it remains the largest transportation hub in New Orleans and is a key link for travel throughout the Southern United States. Three of Amtrak’s long distance train lines end their service at Union Passenger Terminal: the City of New Orleans line from Chicago, the Crescent line from New York City, and the Sunset Limited line from Los Angeles to New Orleans. Buses operated by Greyhound and Jefferson Lines also serve this station, as well as public transit which connects to New Orleans’ famous streetcars. At the station, there are shops, a game room, and food for purchase, and the city’s must-visit French Quarter is just a mile away.

All train stations in New Orleans:

  • Union Term - 1001 Loyola Ave

Where is the train station in Memphis?

Central Station - 545 S Main St - MEMAMT-0

Image credit: Reading Tom

Link to image attribution

Main arrival station: Central Station - 545 S Main St

Memphis Central Station is a historic train station that has served as the central hub of Memphis’ transportation since 1914. It is the only full-service Amtrak station in the state of Tennessee, and serves the City of New Orleans train line, which runs from Chicago to New Orleans. A luxury Hilton hotel is located at the station, complete with two restaurants and a bar. From the Memphis Central Station downtown, it is a quick walk to the Memphis Farmers Market, National Civil Rights Museum, and Tom Lee Park along the Mississippi River.

Train stations in Memphis:

  • Central Station - 545 S Main St

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