The Ultimate 3-Day Savannah Guide
From where to stay to what to do to all the tasty treats to sample, here's your ultimate guide to three days in Savannah, Georgia!
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An enchantingly beautiful city with warm and welcoming locals, Savannah is one of the greatest gems of the southern United States. Soak in the rich history as you wander the cobblestone streets and admire the lush Spanish moss floating overhead. Whether you’re here to eat your way around this culinary capital or embrace the one-of-a-kind cultural scene, this Georgian peach is going to steal your heart.
Language: English with that beautiful Southern charm.
Currency: US dollars and, fun fact, Savannah is consistently ranked amongst the most affordable cities in the country so your dollars go a bit further here.
Credit Cards and Banks: Credit cards are accepted virtually everywhere. You will find some hole-in-the-wall gems that are cash-only so it’s good to always have a few dollars on you. The business district in front of the river has ATMs on every corner so it’s easy to make a quick stop and go prepared.
Climate: Things can get a bit intense here. The weather ranges from 30 degrees F (-1 ºC) to 100 degrees F (28° C). While it rarely snows, Savannah does get a lot of rain, especially in August.
Best Time to Visit: Like much of the southern United States, this city is at its prime during the shoulder seasons. You’ll find gorgeous weather, reasonable pricing, and fewer crowds from April to May and then again from September to October.
Did you know that Savannah was the first planned city in the United States? Not only was every street laid out on a perfect grid but, before laying a single brick, the founder of the city planned 24 town squares. You can still see 22 of those green spaces dotting the historic center.
Explore these urban retreats on a self-guided tour through Savannah’s squares and parks. Discover the history while you take a leisurely stroll through the highlights of Savannah.
Savannah has stunning boutique and historic properties around the city—it’s so charming! If it’s your first time visiting Savannah, I recommend staying near the Downtown/Historic District or along Bull Street. You’ll find accommodation options for all budgets, so shop around before booking.
Here are the top hotels in Savannah, and my favorite places to stay are below!
VRBO has a variety of apartments and private flats at great prices! This is a good option for those looking to get an authentic taste of Paris life. Just be sure to read reviews and do your research before booking!
For a luxe stay, this four-star hotel in the heart of Savannah is a top pick. They have a prime location in the Historic District with all of the bells and whistles.
On top of being a conveniently located base, they offer a complimentary house car that will pick you up or drop you off anywhere within two miles of the hotel. It’s a definite perk, though do note that it’s based on availability so you might end up waiting at peak periods.
Just beside the popular Forsyth Park and Bull Street, you’ll find this much-loved luxury boutique hotel. Built during the 19th century and perfectly preserved, this stately mansion will make you feel like you’re stepping back in time.
On top of being a gorgeous hotel, it’s got one of the best addresses in the city. In less than 15 minutes from your door, you’ll find the most beautiful areas of the city along with the top shopping spots and eateries.
Another stunning property in the Forsyth Park area, this Victorian Romanesque mansion has been converted into an opulent hotel. They’ve maintained that old-world charm and have an impressive menu of elevated Southern dishes and craft cocktails.
Nestled in the much-loved Historic District, this affordable boutique hotel has a perfect location and a welcoming atmosphere. Everywhere is at your doorstep here, and it’s easy to walk to the best of Savannah.
And, oh, those little perks! Start your day with complimentary breakfast, then come back for the wine and cheese reception, turn down service, and even cookies in the evening.
Savannah has many cuisines represented, but you must try the Southern food staples. I’ve listed out the top places to eat below, but don’t miss my Ultimate Savannah Foodie Guide for more hidden gems and tips!
Most of the hot spots, like Husk, require reservations and they can be booked out far in advance! I found that if I tried to get a table during a random time (not peak dinner time), I usually was able to. Your best bet is still to book early, but if you aren’t able to, I recommend arriving during their off-peak hours.
Here are my favorite, and the top restaurants in Savannah!
Another stately mansion turned foodie hotspot, the polished and innovative menu revolves around local ingredients expertly prepared.
On Bull Street, you’ll find this fab breakfast and/or coffee pitstop with an Australian influence. Amongst Savannah’s top brunch spots, this is a good place for unique brews like lavender mochas and Vietnamese dark roasted iced coffee.
Since 1943, this family-owned restaurant has been Savannah’s favorite breakfast spot. Pull up a chair at one of the communal tables in this busy Southern-fried diner and see what all of the fuss is about.
Another top pick for southern classics like fried green tomatoes, biscuits and gravy, or shrimp and grits. With an expansive bloody Mary menu (we’re talking pickle-infused and horseradish vodkas and other soon-to-be-faves), it’s also a top brunch pick.
This bank-turned-gastropub has elevated classics like shrimp and grits, cornbread, and hanger steak. Be sure to sample the craft cocktails. They have their own twist on an old-fashioned cocktail with everything from Moroccan spices to pineapple and sage.
One of the best places in Savannah for live music, this speakeasy is the perfect place for dinner and drinks. And, it’s worth noting, this is one of the only places I’ve ever come across that’s famous for its Brussels sprouts—they’re actually that good!
This place is serving up an eclectic menu of bison burgers, Scottish salmon, and some of the best Shrimp and Grits in town (which is saying a lot!).
One more pricey but iconic pick, this Colonial mansion with live music is the place to be for dinner. Go for a romantic candlelit meal of flounder and filet mignon.
This 19th-century warehouse has been converted into one of the hottest tickets in town. Come for a dinner of She Crab soup and pecan-crusted flounder then go to the bar to listen to the piano player and admire the view.
Whether you are looking for brunch or a schnitzel dinner, this adorable spot is doing everything right. While it’s on the pricier side, it’s well worth it.
Spinning vintage music and offering up burlesque shows, this is the place to go for absinthe. You need a key to get into this dark and cozy hotspot — and that’s what makes it worthwhile! I’ve heard you may be able to get a key (or a password) from your hotel’s concierge…but you’ll have to inquire within to find out
This famous ice cream shop on Broughton Street is said to be the best around. People wait 30 minutes or even up to an hour for a taste of the cold stuff. When I saw the line running around the block, I skipped it — but add it to your list if you are a truly devoted ice cream lover.
Savannah’s natural beauty combined with that good old-fashioned Southern hospitality makes this a great city for travelers! There is an incredible amount to see and do, and you need ample time to just stroll around and soak it all in—but, if you’re only visiting for a few days, I’ve outlined The Ultimate 3-Day Savannah Guide with everything I did during my visit!
Regardless of the time of year, it’s good to keep in mind that many stores and attractions in Savannah have limited hours, so this is one of those destinations where you should plan out the things you HAVE to see, at risk of arriving when they’re closed. If you’re visiting during the summer months, beware that the heat and humidity can be intense—you might move a little slower than usual.
Here are the top activities in Savannah!
The oldest museum in the southern United States, you’ll find a range of American and European artifacts spread over three unique properties: the Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters, Telfair Academy, and Jepson Center. One of Savannah’s most important spots, this is a chance to see over a blend of 200 years of rare historical artifacts, architecture, and art from around the world.
From City Hall to Forsyth Park, you’ll find the best restaurants, shops, and bars in Savannah on Bull Street. You can just show up here in the morning without a plan and find yourself still on the same street well after sunset.
With its antebellum architecture and lush greenery, Savannah has a mystical kind of beauty — which makes it a dream spot for a ghost tour! Bring on the goosebumps on one of the countless hidden adventures around the city.
Explore the place that Architectural Digest called The Most Beautiful Coffee Shop in Georgia. This is a lovely little sidewalk café to refuel and do some window shopping.
I stopped in to cool down with an iced coffee and browsed the eclectic array of antiques and adorable souvenirs.
From bootleg secrets to Nascar adventures, this place is way more than you might think. In fact, it is the only museum devoted to the history of Prohibition and it provides a glimpse into this important turn in the history of the US.
Explore the fascinating history of this gorgeous spot that American, African, and European inhabitants have called home over the centuries. And bring your camera! The dramatic Spanish moss and towering oak trees alone are worth the trip.
Forget the bus! From comedy tours to ghost hunting to good old-fashioned sightseeing, everything is better on a trolley. Pick your theme and see the best of Savannah.
Spanning 30 acres in the historic district, this urban oasis is just beside Savannah’s core thoroughfares: Gaston Street, Drayton Street, Park Avenue, and Whitaker Street. If you’re lucky enough to be in town on a Saturday, be sure to visit the farmer’s market.
East of Savannah, you’ll find this rural cemetery along the scenic shores of the Wilmington River. Made famous by Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, this enchanting space has a uniquely Georgian feeling.
This is where the famous pic of Forrest Gump sitting on a bench was taken. Sadly, the bench was a prop so you can’t quite recreate the pic, but you will certainly recognize the background.
Take in 300 years of history as you explore the Historic Downtown District. You could spend your entire weekend here so plan for at least one afternoon to check out the unique shopping, 100+ restaurants, and gorgeous eighteenth-century architecture.
Located about ten miles northwest of the city, the Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport is the closest airport to the city. When you arrive, you can order an Uber or Lyft, or check out the local taxi options. The taxi costs are standardized, which is handy and prevents you from overpaying as a tourist. Generally speaking, you will be looking at around $30 to get into town.
While the CAT Airport Express used to run from the airport to the center of the city, the service has been suspended momentarily.
From where to stay to what to do to all the tasty treats to sample, here's your ultimate guide to three days in Savannah, Georgia!
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