Savannah Travel Guide
This Ultimate Savannah Travel Guide will help you make all the right decisions on where to stay, dine, and play for an unforgettable vacation!
We were floored on our recent trip to Savannah, GA by its mesmerizing blend of historic charm and verdant urban squares, creating a timeless ambiance unlike any other American city. With its cobblestone streets, majestic oak trees adorned with Spanish moss, and a rich tapestry of history and culture, Savannah offers an unparalleled Southern experience that lingers.
Where should we stay in Savannah?
Historic Inns – Historic inns allow guests to immerse themselves in Savannah's rich history. Often located in beautifully restored buildings, these inns offer an intimate, luxurious experience with personalized services, antique furnishings, and a glimpse into the past. Check out The Gastonian, The Kehoe House, or the Hamilton-Turner Inn.
Bed & Breakfasts – B&Bs offer a cozy and homey environment, often accompanied by a homemade breakfast. They are suited to travelers seeking personal interactions with hosts and other guests, as well as a more local experience. Check out The Forsyth Park Inn or the Savannah Bed & Breakfast Inn.
Our Pro Tip
Public Transportation!
Boutique Hotels – These hotels are typically smaller and offer a unique, stylish atmosphere distinct from large chain hotels. They often have local design elements and can provide a more curated experience for guests. Try The Bohemian Hotel Savannah Riverfront or The Alida Hotel.
Chain Hotels – These chain hotels have good locations, nice amenities, and often offer reward programs, we recommend either the Hyatt Regency Savannah or The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa.
Vacation Rentals – Vacation rentals, which can range from historic homes to modern apartments, offer the comfort and privacy of a home setting. They are ideal for families, groups, or longer stays, and often come with kitchens and separate living areas. Check out Airbnb or Vrbo.
Riverfront Accommodations – Staying on the riverfront means immediate access to one of Savannah's most vibrant areas—River Street—with its shops, restaurants, and stunning river views. The ambiance here is lively and offers a unique perspective of the city. Check out River Street Inn or Cotton Sail Hotel.
Budget Friendly Accommodations – For travelers mindful of their budget, these accommodations offer essential amenities without breaking the bank. They are functional, clean, and often centrally located. Check out the Thunderbird Inn or Staybridge Suites Savannah Historic District.
Where should we eat in Savannah?
Dining in Savannah is an experience that marries the city's rich history, diverse influences, and the bounty of the Georgia coast. Here are some of our top favorite places to eat!
Leopold's Ice Cream – Established in 1919, Leopold's is an iconic, old-fashioned ice cream parlor. The shop, with its nostalgic interior and classic soda fountain, serves some of the best ice creams and malts in the city. Click here for more information.
The Original Crab Shack – Tybee Island – This good surf and turf restaurant is a funky joint 20 minutes from downtown Savannah on Tybee Island. Crab shack is a informal atmosphere with a “no shoes, no shirt, no problem” kind of vibe. You can also feed their lagoon of crocodiles while you wait for your food. This is a fully outdoor restaurant which accounts for rain but not best in the heat of summer. Click here for more information!
Zunzi's – For a unique, globally-inspired sandwich experience, Zunzi's offers a mix of Swiss, Italian, South African, and Dutch cuisines. Their massive sandwiches, like the famous “Conquistador,” are both flavorful and filling. View their menu here.
The Pirates' House – As one of Georgia's oldest buildings, The Pirates' House offers a blend of history and hearty Southern dishes. With rumored ties to pirates and sailors in the 1700s, dining here is as much about the atmosphere and lore as it is about the food. View the menu here.
Back in the Day Bakery – This retro bakery is known for its handmade, old-fashioned treats. Whether you're craving a biscuit, cupcake, or a sandwich, the bakery's offerings are made with love and top-notch ingredients. Click here for their website.
What Activities should we do in Savannah?
Savannah, Georgia, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are some of the best things to do in the city and reasons why each activity is worthwhile.
Explore the Historic District – Savannah's Historic District is one of the largest National Historic Landmark Districts in the U.S. Wandering its streets, visitors can admire centuries-old architecture, historic homes, and the iconic city squares filled with live oaks and Spanish moss.
Visit Forsyth Park – As the largest park in the Historic District, Forsyth Park is a 30-acre green space that's suited to picnicking, jogging, or relaxing. The park's fountain, especially beautiful on St. Patrick's Day when it's dyed green, is one of Savannah's most recognized landmarks.
Stroll Along River Street – Lining the Savannah River, River Street is packed with shops, restaurants, and galleries. It's an excellent spot to pick up a souvenir, enjoy the river views, or savor some local cuisine.
Take a Ghost Tour – Given its rich history, it's no surprise that Savannah is often dubbed one of America's most haunted cities. Ghost tours, whether on foot or in a hearse, offer chilling tales and a unique perspective of the city after dark. Click here for more information about the self-guided tour!
Tour the Historic Homes – Houses like the Mercer-Williams House, the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, and the Owens-Thomas House offer a glimpse into the city's history, architecture, and past residents. Click here for more information.
Visit the Bonaventure Cemetery – Featured in the novel and film “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil,” this cemetery is both hauntingly beautiful and historically significant. Guided tours provide insights into the lives of notable figures buried here. Click here for more information.
Experience the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) – SCAD plays a central role in Savannah's contemporary culture. Explore its galleries, attend a lecture, or even catch a performance at the SCAD theater.
Go Island Hopping – Nearby barrier islands like Tybee Island offer beautiful beaches, historic lighthouses, and opportunities for water sports, making them suited to day trips.
Visit the Telfair Museums – This group of three museums (Telfair Academy, Jepson Center, and Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters) offers a mix of art, history, and architecture, providing a comprehensive cultural experience.
