A Complete Guide To Savannah, Georgia (Updated 2026)

With brick streets, charming architecture, ghost stories, and weeping willows this quaint Georgia city set on the border of South Carolina serves as an awe inspiring destination for anyone looking to experience the South. Savannah's beautiful parks, hotels, coffee shops, restaurants, and compelling history makes for an unforgettable trip. Read on to discover an updated 2026 guide to Savannah, Georgia.

About Savannah

Safety - Overall Savannah is a super safe city to visit. But, like any city, there are places to avoid - West Savannah, Cloverdale, Carver Heights, and the area around Waters Avenue north. Other than that just take normal precautions (beware of pickpockets, be vigilant at night, ect.)

History - One of the reasons it is such a popular destination is because of its history. Savannah was established in 1733 and was named the 13th and final American colony. Some of the most significant things that happened in Savannah were the yellow fever outbreak and the role it played as a port city in the Civil War. Read this article all about the history of Savannah, Georgia to learn more.

Where To Stay In Savannah

Luxury Savannah Hotel - Perry Lane Hotel

The Perry Lane Hotel, by Marriott, is set in Savannah's South Historic District beautifully blends the old with the new with its dedication to preserving Savannahs soulful charm while adding modern sophistication. The 136 rooms and 12 suits embody their mission in adding unique art to each room making each stay different.

Middle Range Savannah Hotel - River Street Inn

The once cotton warehouse built in 1817 sits just steps away from the bustling River Street and embraces its historic roots, keeping the original brick walls, exposed beams, and ironwork. The River Street Inn is a great middle range option in Savannah.

Budget Savannah Hotel - The Grant

The Grant is a aparthotel located in the River North Historic District. With an industrial-modern design, The Grant is the perfect affordable option for both long term stays and, even an overnight, with a full kitchen, private bedroom, bathroom, and laundry. There are also two and three bedroom suits for larger groups.

What To Do In Savannah

Wander Around Forsyth Park

The thirty arce Forsyth Park is full of green spaces, oak trees, fountains, and more. Built in 1858, Forsyth is the oldest and largest park in Savannah and served as a filming location for the iconic Forrest Gump bench scene.

Explore the Victoria District

Located right next to Forsyth Park you will find Savannahs stunning Victorica District. The Victoria District is mostly residential, but it is lovely to walk around in. You can find Late Victorian, Queen Anne, and other architectural styles here.

The Victoria District is also known as Savannah's first suburb and, with help from the streetcar system, was heavily developed from the 1860s to the 1920s

East River Street

East River Street, located along the Savannah River offers a look in to the cities history. Established with the city in 1733, you will find shops and restaurants set in 19th century warehouses along East River Street. While watching the river move you may see massive container ships passing through. The Savannah Market on East Street offers unique Savannah souvenirs.

Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters

Set in Savannah's Historic District the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters was constructed in 1819 and offers visitors a glimpse into the life of the most powerful people in Savannah in the 19th century. Visiting this historic house is the perfect introduction to Savannah's art, architecture, and history.

Sorrel Weed House Museum

The mansion built in 1840 perfectly replicates what life was like in the 1840s. The Sorrel Weed House is stunning, but the real reason many people visit the house is because of the interesting ghost stories and tours.

👻Our Favorite Tour Company In Savannah - US Ghost Adventures

The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist

The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist is probably the most impressive buildings in Savannah. Opening in 1873 the spectacular Basilica is 214 feet tall and has 81 stained glass windows, so you can imagine that this is a beautiful building worth a visit.

To check hours of operation visit The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist website here.

Bonaventure Cemetery

Bonaventure Cemetery, Located on the outskirts of Savannah is worth visiting because of its beauty. At The Bonaventure Cemetery you will find a bluff that looks out at the Wilmington River, old road ways lined with weeping willow trees, and unique statues.

First African Baptist Church

The First African Baptist Church is one of the oldest black church in North America. With the roots from the 1770s and the current building being constructed in 1859, this church boasts a fascinating history, even that it may have been the first brick building in Georgia owned by African Americans. It also played a role in community organization, resistance to slavery, and Black education.

Take a Day Trip

Two of the best places you can visit from Savannah in a day is Hilton Head Island and Charleston.

If you are looking for more of a beach day option Hilton Head is perfect. If you want to learn more about the US History and marvel at adorable buildings the checkout Charleston!

⭐Read Next - A Complete Guide To Charleston, South Carolina

Where To Dine In Savannah

Coffee & Breakfast

Foxy Loxy - Serving amazing latte and pastries, Foxy Loxy is a hip coffee joint.

Gallery Espresso - Gallery Espresso is a beautiful mess of a cafe. The furniture does not make sense together, the color scheme is off, and it is hard to walk around in the cafe, but somehow it works. The coffee is super good too!

Franklin's - If you are looking for a brunch and breakfast spot in Savannah then head over to Franklins. Serving amazing coffee and food, Franklins is the perfect place to sit back, relax, and enjoy a morning meal!

Lunch & Dinner

Olde Pink House - The Olde Pink House is definitely the most iconic place to dine in Savannah. Serving some of the best southern cooking in colonial mansion built in the 17oos, The Olde Pink house is worth the price. Reservations are required at the Olde Pink House.

Alligator Soul Restaurant - Based on the name I was hesitant to dine at The Alligator Soul Restaurant, but it was amazing. The Alligator Soul restaurant is on the pricey side and serves amazing Southern Food in a super cool environment.

Common Thread - In the heart of Savannah's downtown area you will find the bright and airy Common Thread Restaurant. Serving incredible farm fresh food, Common Thread is open daily, but you will need a reservation!

When To Visit Savannah

The best time to visit Savannah is in winter or spring. You will find comfortable temperatures, low humidity, and lots of sunshine from December to April. Avoid Savannah during the fall and summer. Honestly the heat and humidity is a lot in these months May - November. You will also find that it can get rainy in the fall and summer.

How To Get To Savannah

Flying - Flying into Savannah is super easy. You can find affordable direct flights on airlines such as Jetblue, Allegiant, American, Breeze, Delta, Frontier, Avelo, Silver, and more. The airport to fly into is Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport.

✈️Checkout The Latest Fares To Savannah Here

Train - I took the train to Savannah after visiting Charleston, South Carolina. The train was only about an hour and I booked it on Omio and it was an Amtrak Train.

Road Trip To Savannah - The second time I visited I did a road trip to Savannah from Boston. Checkout my road trip to Savannah blog post if you plan on driving.

Best Tours To Take In Savannah

Hop On Hop Off Trolly - I usually opt for walking while traveling, but with Savannahs intense humidity and heat, this hop on hop off trolly was a life saver. This affordable trolly takes you to all of the top tourist areas of Savannah!

Savannah Food Tour - While Southern food may be the most unhealthy cuisine in the world, it is also quite delicious. This Savannah food tour will take you to all of the best restaurants, cafes, and local joints in the city!

Savannah Ghost Tour - It is no secret that Savannah is a bit of a creepy town. This Savannah Ghost Tour features ghost stories and visits to haunted areas of the city.

Beach Day Trip - You can't visit Savannah without spending the day at one of the stunning nearby beaches. This Beach Day Tour takes you to the picturesque Tybee Island and will bring you on a dolphin cruise!

Savannah FAQs

How far is Savannah from Hilton Head? Savannah, Georgia is only around 45 minutes from Hilton Head, South Carolina.

How far is Savannah from Atlanta? Savannah is around four hours from Atlanta. If you do not want to drive all the way to Atlanta there are daily flights between the two cities on Delta.

Where is Savannah, Georgia? Savannah is located on the Georgia - South Carolina border by the coast.

Is Savannah, Georgia on the beach? Savannah is not on the beach but it is easy to get to a beach from the city. Some of the best beaches near Savannah include Hilton Head Island, Tybee Island, and St Simons Island.

Is Savannah expensive? Coming from Massachusetts I thought that Savannah was incredibly cheap. The hotels, food, and activities were about half the price of what they are in Boston. It all really just depends on what you are used to though.

A Complete Guide To Savannah Wrap Up

Savannah is home to historic homes, amazing restaurants, so much history, and more. The adorable city should be on your USA travel list. If you liked this guide to Savannah I think you will love my Complete Guide To Charleston, South Carolina and my Locals Guide To Boston, Massachusetts.

Happy Travels,

Daisy