Savannah is a spellbinding coastal city known for its moss-draped oak trees, historic antebellum architecture, and a laid-back, gothic-romantic atmosphere. The best time to visit is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild enough to fully enjoy the city's famous walking squares and outdoor dining.
Top Things to Do in Savannah
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Getting Around Savannah
From the Airport
Rideshare. Uber and Lyft are both widely available at Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport and typically take about 20-25 minutes to reach the historic district for $25-$40. Shuttle. Several private shuttle services like KShuttle operate from the airport and offer pre-booked shared rides to downtown hotels.
Once You're There
Walking. The Savannah historic district is exceptionally walkable and designed in a grid of squares, making it the best way to explore the city. DOT Shuttle. The city provides a free fare-free shuttle service called the 'DOT' that runs through the main points of the historic district. Rideshare. Uber and Lyft are very reliable for getting between the historic district and outlying areas like Bonaventure Cemetery or Wormsloe.
Where to Stay in Savannah
Hotel picks for Savannah are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Savannah
Zunzi's★ 4.8 (5,379)236 Drayton St, Savannah, GA 31401, USAThis casual, high-energy spot is famous for its 'Shit Yeah' sauce and massive sandwiches that draw a loyal local lunch crowd.
Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room★ 4.8 (3,418)107 W Jones St, Savannah, GA 31401, USAExpect a long queue for this legendary spot where communal tables are piled high with authentic Southern comfort food like fried chicken and okra gumbo.
Crystal Beer Parlor★ 4.7 (6,992)301 W Jones St, Savannah, GA 31401, USAAs one of the oldest restaurants in the city, it is the go-to spot for a classic burger and a extensive selection of local craft beers.
Collins Quarter★ 4.7 (5,027)151 Bull St, Savannah, GA 31401, USAThis bustling cafe brings Australian-style coffee culture to the heart of the historic district and is beloved for its spiced lavender mocha.
The Olde Pink House★ 4.6 (10,798)23 Abercorn St, Savannah, GA 31401, USAThis iconic restaurant is housed in an 18th-century mansion and is famous for its crispy scored flounder and Southern-style she-crab soup.
Alligator Soul★ 4.6 (2,422)114 Barnard St, Savannah, GA 31401, USATucked away in a basement warehouse, this restaurant specializes in exotic meats and creative, upscale dishes that push the boundaries of traditional Southern fare.
Back in the Day Bakery★ 4.6 (763)2403 Bull St, Savannah, GA 31401, USAA must-visit for breakfast, this charming bakery is renowned for its homemade biscuits and decadent seasonal fruit cobblers.
Treylor Park★ 4.5 (6,968)115 E Bay St, Savannah, GA 31401, USAKnown for its inventive 'Southern Gastropub' snacks, this spot is the place to try unique items like peanut butter and jelly chicken wings.
Vic's On the River★ 4.4 (6,468)26 E Bay St, Savannah, GA 31401, USADine in a historic cotton warehouse while enjoying panoramic views of the Savannah River and upscale Lowcountry dishes.
The Grey★ 4.4 (2,730)109 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401, USAHoused in a restored 1938 Art Deco Greyhound bus terminal, this restaurant offers a sophisticated, award-winning take on Southern port city cuisine.
Tours & Activities
Bookable through Viator.
3 Days in Savannah
Historic Squares & Southern Charm
Morning. Start your trip by heading straight to the iconic Forsyth Park, where you can walk under the heavy canopy of Spanish moss and capture the perfect photo of the famous white fountain. Spend about an hour wandering the lush pathways before heading north toward Chippewa Square, famously known for its appearance in the film Forrest Gump. It is best to arrive early in the morning to beat the humidity and the crowds that tend to gather around the benches. From there, take a short walk to the stunning Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist to admire its intricate stained glass and soaring Gothic spires. Be sure to check the cathedral's schedule for mass times, as it may be closed to tourists during services.
Afternoon. After grabbing lunch, make your way to the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters to gain a deeper, more nuanced understanding of Savannah’s complex history through its well-preserved urban architecture. Spend your afternoon exploring the surrounding Oglethorpe Square and the nearby boutique shops along Broughton Street. The area is highly walkable, so take your time ducking into local bookstores and galleries. If you need a break, stop at a nearby square to sit on a bench and people-watch, which is practically a local pastime. Finally, walk over to the Mercer-Williams House to view the exterior of the home made famous by the book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.
Evening. Wind down your first day by heading toward the Savannah River to stroll along the cobblestone paths of River Street. The atmosphere here is vibrant and bustling with street performers, candy shops, and riverboats passing by in the distance. Find a spot at a balcony-level bar to watch the sunset over the water before heading to dinner at one of the historic buildings nearby. After your meal, take a slow walk through the quieter residential streets to admire the gas-lit lamps and the ironwork balconies that give Savannah its signature romantic glow. End the night with a stroll through the illuminated City Market to browse local art and listen to live music.
Lowcountry Landscapes & Lore
Morning. Take a short drive or rideshare outside the city center to visit the Wormsloe Historic Site, where you will be greeted by the most famous avenue of live oaks in the entire state. The mile-long drive leads you to the ruins of an 18th-century tabby estate and offers beautiful nature trails along the marshland. Plan to spend at least two hours here to truly soak in the tranquility of the coastal landscape away from the city noise. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the trails can be sandy and uneven. Before heading back toward the city, stop at the visitor center to learn about the colonial history of the Georgia colony.
Afternoon. Head back toward the city to visit the hauntingly beautiful Bonaventure Cemetery, a site that feels like a Victorian garden frozen in time. Wander through the rows of weathered tombstones and statues, which are draped in moss and surrounded by ancient trees. It is best to bring a bottle of water and a hat, as there is very little shade in the more open sections of the burial ground. After leaving the cemetery, drive back toward the historic district to grab a late lunch at a spot known for authentic Southern hospitality. Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing in one of the many pocket parks, like Monterey Square, to simply enjoy the city's slow pace.
Evening. For your second evening, dive into the city's spooky reputation by booking a ghost tour that explores the dark history of the squares you visited earlier. Many of these tours depart from the central squares and last about 90 minutes, providing a perfect blend of history and entertainment. After your tour, head to a local speakeasy or a cozy pub to discuss the stories you just heard over a craft cocktail. If you still have energy, walk down to the riverfront one last time to see the city lights reflecting off the dark water. It is a great time to grab a late-night ice cream or praline from one of the shops on the river level.
Art, Culture & Coastal Vibe
Morning. Dedicate your final morning to exploring the artistic side of Savannah by visiting the SCAD Museum of Art, which showcases contemporary works in a beautifully restored railway depot. The museum is a fantastic way to see how the city blends its industrial past with cutting-edge modern design. Spend about two hours wandering through the rotating exhibitions before walking toward the nearby Liberty Street area. This part of town is less crowded than the main tourist hubs, allowing you to see a more authentic side of Savannah’s local scene. Stop for a coffee at a neighborhood cafe and enjoy the quiet morning air.
Afternoon. Spend your final afternoon indulging in some retail therapy at the quirky shops located around Ellis Square. This area is the perfect place to pick up local souvenirs like honey, pralines, or handmade crafts from the nearby boutiques. If you are feeling adventurous, take a short trolley tour to get a final overview of the city's layout and hear stories you might have missed on your walks. The trolleys are a great way to see the outer edges of the historic district without adding more steps to your day. Afterward, relax in the shade of a park bench in Johnson Square before heading back to your hotel to freshen up.
Evening. For your final dinner, treat yourself to an upscale meal at one of the city's top-rated restaurants to celebrate your trip. Choose a place with a courtyard or a rooftop view to get one last look at the city's unique architecture under the twilight sky. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the historic district to see the landmarks illuminated at night, which looks completely different than it does during the day. Stop by a local bar for a nightcap and reflect on the beauty of the city's squares. Savannah is best experienced at a slow pace, so don't rush through your final hours in this charming Southern gem.
