Scenic Savannah is an amazing place to visit! Whether you love history, culture, cuisine, entertainment — or a bit of everything — you’ll have plenty of things to do during your vacation. The downtown area is filled with attractions and views of the winding Savannah River. The surrounding areas offer outdoor recreation — and a chance to see alligators and other local wildlife! Planning on visiting one of the top travel destinations in the country? Deciding what to see and do, where to stay, and where to eat can be difficult for sure, but AAA is here to help!
AAA has been offering travel planning assistance to Savannah for many years. To help you narrow down your options, we offer the following Savannah, Georgia travel guide — packed with helpful info and recommendations.
How to Get Around Savannah
Planning on using your car or a rental car to get around? You might want to think twice! Savannah is easy to get around by foot, bike or public transportation. If you’re visiting when the weather is mild rather than hot, you might find it pleasant to walk everywhere you need to go. The streets are pretty narrow, making it hard to get around by vehicle, and there are fun things to do without a car.
If you change your mind, you can take advantage of buses and other transportation in the city. You also might find a car handy if you plan on making any day trips while you’re here. Either way, we’ll walk you through your options for getting around this Southern city!
Driving Around Savannah
Savannah’s downtown area isn’t exactly sprawling. In fact, it’s made up of over 22 active squares with compact streets. That’s not ideal for driving around from place to place — especially when you factor in parking. Having a car can be useful if you’re heading out to the outer edges of town or nearby towns.
Public Transportation in Savannah
Savannah has a couple of public bus options to take if you want to get around faster than walking — or if you’re sightseeing in inclement weather. Routes and schedules vary, so it’s best to check for the latest details before you head out! Savannah’s bus options include:
- Chatham Area Transit buses: CAT buses have one-way fares that won't run you more than a few bucks. You can transfer to other buses for free. CAT buses have several routes available throughout the city, including routes to the airport!
- DOT Bus: This is a fare-free way to get around the city! The DOT Bus is an express shuttle that has two routes — Forsyth Park and Downtown. You can get on and off at any of its stops throughout the Savannah Historic District. It also connects to visitor centers, municipal parking facilities and other facilities.
Savannah Belle’s Ferry
Planning to visit Hutchinson Island? You’ll need to take a ferry to get there. Savannah Belle’s Ferry is a free ride to and from the island. You can catch it on River Street right by City Hall from 7 a.m. to midnight daily.
Biking
Looking for an option that doesn’t involve walking or catching a bus? Consider biking around Savannah! You can rent a bike from shops in the city, instead of having to bring your own with you. If you enjoy biking around, you can also take a bike tour of Savannah!
Parking in Savannah
You’ll most likely be dealing with metered parking if you plan to drive around the city. Savannah has more than 3,000 metered spaces! That should give you plenty of parking options — unless there’s an event going on or it’s prime tourist season! Your other options include using public parking garages or surface lots located in the downtown area. Consider a visitor parking pass for convenience and cost savings.
Best Time to Visit Savannah
Trying to determine the best time for traveling to Savannah? Your decision will end up depending on what you want to see and do, what kind of weather you prefer — and other factors. The city is beautiful all year round! But there are pros and cons to visiting during any season.
Want to visit during the best weather? That would be springtime when you get mild daytime temps instead of cold weather or too much heat and humidity. You can stroll around the city admiring the spring blooms and Spanish moss. There’s just one drawback to visiting during this time. Spring draws crowds to Savannah thanks to the gorgeous weather! For mild temps and fewer tourists, consider a visit during fall instead!
Trying to avoid the crowds? Coming to Savannah during winter is the best time for a quiet vacation. Mild winter weather means you don’t have to worry about dealing with freezing temps, ice or snow. And you can enjoy the city’s holiday festivities! But keep in mind that some attractions in Savannah are seasonal — so you might not get to do everything you want.
Looking for a vacation with water activities and beach visits? Head to Savannah during summertime for that! You can go boating, swimming, fishing and water skiing as well as enjoy other water-related activities. Or you can visit one of the area’s beaches and soak up some sun. Note that summer does bring lots of humidity and heat to Savannah, so you may want to add indoor activities to your itinerary, too!
Top Things to Do in Savannah Georgia
Don’t let Savannah’s slow pace fool you! The city’s filled with plenty of things to do — from nightlife and shopping to outdoor recreation and cultural attractions. No matter what you’re interested in, you can find attractions and amenities to fit your tastes. We’ll go through just some of the best Savannah attractions to consider including on your trip!
Enjoy a Hop On, Hop Off Trolley Tour
Want to learn more about the city while you’re visiting? An interactive trolley tour is a great way to do so! You have over 14 stops to visit, including Franklin Square and City Market. And you can look forward to meeting costumed fictional and historical characters — including Forrest Gump! This tour’s flexibility means you can see what you want, when you want.
Brave Savannah’s Ghost City “Dead of Night” Walking Tour
Visiting Savannah during the Spooky Season? That’s a perfect time to explore the city’s haunted past! However, you can also take this ghost tour in other seasons and wander through some of Savannah’s haunted places while hearing eerie tales of its past, including the paranormal!
Work Up an Appetite with a Southern Flavors Food Tour
Your time in Savannah is limited — so you may not be able to visit every restaurant your list. But this food tour helps make up for that! During this 3-hour food tour and pub crawl, you’ll get to walk around and enjoy plenty of food tasting and cocktails. You might even find your favorite Savannah restaurant this way!
Sail the Savannah River
Hop aboard a colorful riverboat and take in spectacular sunset views! Sunset cruises on the Savannah River aboard the Georgia Queen give you a chance to admire your surroundings, listen to dance tunes and enjoy a delicious meal! The boat’s Skyline Bar and Grill has a tasty à la carte menu available.
Take an Exciting Dolphin Cruise
Eager to see dolphins playing among the waves? Dolphin cruises from Tybee Island are the ideal activity for you! You can take a bus or trolley to the island, and then catch the cruise boat. Drift around the waterways while keeping an eye out for dolphins. The tour also includes a photo-op stop at the Tybee Island Lighthouse!
Where to Stay in Savannah
Savannah has so many great accommodations available that choosing one can be a tough decision! But our guide to Savannah, Georgia, includes our top recommendations for places to stay, depending on what your preferences — and budget — are.
The Bohemian Hotel Savannah Riverfront, Autograph Collection
- Address: 102 W. Bay St., Savannah, GA
- Parking: Valet only
- Diamond-designation: AAA Four Diamond
- Amenities: 2 restaurants, full bar, fitness room, pet-friendly, wireless internet access, valet laundry, room service
- Best for: Travelers who want a waterfront view and a more relaxed atmosphere
This artsy boutique The Bohemian Hotel gives you beautiful views of the river to enjoy during your stay. It also features a rooftop lounge, creative arts installations, and a restaurant and lounge on-site. Choose from river view rooms, city view rooms — or corner rooms that give you both!
Perry Lane Hotel, A Luxury Collection Hotel
- Address: 256 E. Perry St., Savannah, GA
- Parking: Valet only
- Diamond-designation: AAA Four Diamond
- Amenities: Heated outdoor pool, pet-friendly, wireless internet access, fitness center, business center, 2 restaurants, full bar, area transportation within 2 miles, game room
- Best for: Those looking for trendy and luxurious accommodations in a central location
Want to stay in the heart of the city, while enjoying upscale amenities and accommodations? That’s what you’ll get at the Perry Lane Hotel! This top-tier hotel makes it easy to go sightseeing throughout Savannah. You’ll also be close to plenty of dining and shopping options, nightlife and more!
The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa
- Address: 1 Resort Dr., Savannah, GA
- Parking: Valet and on-site (fee)
- Diamond-designation: AAA Three Diamond
- Amenities: Heated outdoor pool, hot tub, sauna, 3 restaurants, full bar, room service, marina, cabanas, golf, tennis, health club
- Best for: Those who want resort accommodations at affordable rates
Planning a resort kind of vacation? The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort can fit all your needs! It’s just a (free) ferry ride away from downtown Savannah. You can spend your days traveling around sightseeing, or stay at the resort to play a round of golf, go swimming or enjoy other activities!
Holiday Inn Express Historic District
- Address: 199 E. Bay St., Savannah, GA
- Parking: Valet only
- Diamond-designation: AAA Three Diamond
- Amenities: Wireless high-speed internet access, outdoor pool, exercise room, business center, hot tub
- Best for: Budget-friendly travelers who want the most bang for their buck
Trying to find a cost-effective place to stay that’s close to lots of attractions? The Holiday Inn Express Historic District is centrally located, making it easy to do a whole bunch of sightseeing. But it offers more affordable rates compared to other downtown area hotels, helping you get the most for your money!
The Cotton Sail Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
- Address: 126 W. Bay St., Savannah, GA
- Parking: Valet only
- Diamond Designation: AAA Three Diamond
- Amenities: Wireless high-speed internet access, exercise room, business center, full bar, restaurant, valet laundry
- Best for: Those looking for accommodations with historic charm
How does a former warehouse hotel sound? The Cotton Sail Hotel gets its name from being a cotton warehouse in the 1800s. This beautifully restored hotel also gives you scenic views of the river and easy access to restaurants, stores and other amenities along River Street and beyond!
Where to Eat in Savannah
There’s no shortage of dining options in Savannah. Whether you want somewhere upscale for fine dining or a burger joint, the city won’t disappoint! But which places should you add to your trip to Savannah Georgia? Let’s explore some of the top restaurants in the city!
The Olde Pink House Restaurant
- Address: 23 Abercorn St., Savannah, GA 31401
- Phone number: (912) 232-4286
- Diamond-designation: AAA Three Diamond
- Reservations: Suggested
- Type: Seafood
How does some pan-seared salmon sound? The Olde Pink House offers Southern seafood dishes in an 18th-century mansion! Dine in style in one of nine dining rooms. Or enjoy an appetizer and live piano music in the casual lounge.
The Collins Quarter
- Address: 151 Bull St., Savannah, GA 31401
- Phone number: (912) 777-4147
- Diamond-designation: AAA Approved
- Reservations: Suggested
- Type: Australian
Savannah may not be the first place you think of for Australian cuisine, but that’s what you’ll get at The Collins Quarter. This fusion restaurant serves a combination of Australian and Southern dishes, including a potato dish called “bubble and squeak,” breakfast sandwiches packed with slice pork!
Cotton & Rye
- Address: 1801 Habersham St., Savannah, GA 31401
- Phone number: (912) 777-6286
- Diamond-designation: AAA Three Diamond
- Reservations: Suggested
- Type: Southern
A former bank, Cotton & Rye now offers an elegant yet casual restaurant serving Southern dishes. Fish, pork shops with butter beans on the side, fried chicken and other menu items provide you with tons of tempting options. But make sure you have room to try a dessert, like peanut butter pie or coconut bread pudding.
Saint Bibiana
- Address: 700 Drayton St., Savannah, GA 31401
- Phone number: (912) 721-5002
- Diamond-designation: AAA Four Diamond
- Reservations: Suggested
- Type: Italian
Is Italian food your favorite? Then plan to have a meal at Saint Bibiana while you’re in town! This restaurant offers a luxurious environment filled with greenery, ambient lighting and art. The menu features coastal Italian items, like grilled squid, pasta, olive-brined chicken and buffalo milk burrata. There’s also a brunch menu available each Sunday!
Crystal Beer Parlor
- Address: 301 W. Jones St., Savannah, GA 31401
- Phone number: (912) 349-1000
- Diamond-designation: AAA Approved
- Reservations: No
- Type: Burgers
In the mood for a burger? Don’t assume you’re in any old burger joint at Crystal Beer Parlor. In fact, you’ll be in the city’s oldest continuously-operating restaurant! This family-friendly dining establishment features bison burgers, lamb burgers, beef burgers and more! You can also choose from seafood items, sandwiches and the Southern classic shrimp and grits.
Savannah Photo Spots
Don’t let your Savannah trip go by without taking tons of photos! You’ll have opportunities to take plenty of pics at all of the attractions you visit — or just while you’re strolling around town. But where can you go to get really beautiful photos with impressive backdrops or surroundings? Check out these top photo spots in Savannah!
1. Forsyth Park
Stand in front of the Forsyth Fountain for a photo, or take pics while standing under the towering oaks and sycamore trees. Forsyth Park is one of the best places to go in Savannah for scenic photo ops!
2. Bonaventure Cemetery
A cemetery might not seem like a typical photo spot, but Savannah’s scenic cemeteries offer beautiful backdrops. Bonaventure Cemetery is filled with stately oak trees and monuments, making it a great place to snap some photos.
3. Rainbow Row
This colorful row of houses is one of the most iconic places in all of Savannah. You can find it close to Washington Square and River Street. Choose your favorite rainbow row home to take a photo in front of, or take a wider shot that captures multiple row houses!
4. Tybee Island Lighthouse
Heading out to Tybee Island? Every trip there is worth visiting its famous Tybee Island Light Station! You can take a tour of the lighthouse and museum before standing in front for a picturesque photo — and a timeless keepsake from your trip!
5. River Street
As the name implies, River Street offers riverfront views that are gorgeous as backdrops. But the street also has cobblestone streets, brick buildings and other quaint touches that add charm to any vacation photo!
Savannah Day Trips
Traveling to Savannah Georgia doesn’t mean staying in the city limits the entire time! You may want to plan a day trip or two, depending on how long you’ll be in town. The following are a few suggestions for fun day trips that aren’t far from Savannah!
1. Skidaway Island State Park, GA
- Distance: 15 miles
The park is just a short drive from Savannah, making it a great place to go for camping, birding, hiking and other outdoor adventures! Follow the Colonial Coast Birding Trail to see local and migratory birds. Or explore 6 miles of hiking trails throughout the park.
- Distance: 31 miles
Want to include a trip to the ocean during your vacation? Hilton Head Island is under an hour away from Savannah! Head to the beach for a swim in the Atlantic, or enjoy the area’s other activities, like golfing, boating, guided tours and cultural attractions!
- Distance: 93 miles
This scenic island — and conservation site — is less than 2 hours from Savannah. Visit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center while you’re there. Explore the Jekyll Island Museum, or have fun at Summer Waves Water Park!
Visiting Savannah on a Budget
Trying to cut down on costs without sacrificing any fun or adventure in Savannah? There are plenty of ways you can have a budget-friendly vacation here! We offer some helpful tips on how to save money on your Savannah vacation.
1. Check out free things to do in Savannah. The city has plenty of parks to explore, like Tricentennial Park and Forsyth Park. Look up other free activities and amenities to add to your trip for even more cost savings!
2. Book a trip during shoulder season or the off-season, not the peak tourist season. If you don’t mind having more limited options in terms of attractions, consider visiting in winter, late fall or early spring. This is when Savannah has its off-season — which means off-peak rates!
3. Take advantage of your AAA membership to access vehicle, hotel, and ticket discounts. Use your AAA benefits to get reduced prices on attraction tickets, accommodations and more, like exclusive discounts on car rentals!
4. Choose centrally located accommodations to save on transportation — and time! Staying on the outskirts of town might cost less, but you might spend more in gas money or bus money getting to downtown and back. Consider staying in a hotel in or near downtown instead!
Plan Your Savannah Vacation with AAA
Once you’ve gathered inspiration for your dream Savannah trip on Trip Canvas, contact a AAA Travel Agents today to start making your dream a reality, using your AAA membership to access exclusive deals. No matter your budget, they can help you simplify the planning process with prepackaged trips or a la carte options.