Weekend in Savannah: A Practical 3 Day Itinerary

Savannah is designed for walking. The city layout centers on 22 historic squares, which act as anchors for the Historic District. If you are visiting for a short trip, you can easily move between the French Quarter, the Victorian District, and the waterfront on foot. The goal for a weekend in Savannah is to balance the heavy history with the slower pace of the coast.

Where to Base Yourself

Your choice of hotel depends on prioritize nightlife or quiet. The Historic District is the most central option. For those on a budget, The Savannah Inn ($115 to $150 per night) is located on the edge of City Market. The Thunderbird Inn ($130 to $160 per night) offers a retro feel and is a short walk to River Street.

If you prefer a boutique experience, The Perry Lane Hotel ($210 to $260 per night) puts you steps from the oak paths of Forsyth Park. The Cotton Sail Hotel ($190 to $240 per night) is a former cotton warehouse on River Street with waterfront views. For luxury, The Bohemian Hotel Savannah ($350 to $420 per night) or The Gastonian ($380 to $460 per night) provide a more intimate, high end experience. The Drayton Hotel is another mid range option in the center of the action.

Friday: The Waterfront Arrival

Start your weekend by heading to River Street. This area is characterized by cobblestones and views of ships unloading cargo. You can spend about 1 hour walking the River Street Savannah Waterfront Walk to browse shops and sample pralines.

For your first evening, head to The Jigger on West Broughton. This speakeasy style cocktail bar serves a "Southern Belle" gin fizz for $12 to $14. It is a low lit environment that provides a contrast to the bright colors of the city squares.

Saturday: History and Southern Fare

Saturday should be dedicated to the core of the city. Start with coffee and brunch at The Collins Quarter on Broughton Street. A flat white and avocado toast will cost you $12 to $15 and take about 45 minutes.

Spend your morning at the Savannah History Museum. Admission is free, and you can see exhibits on the Civil War and the founding of the city in about 45 minutes. From there, move to Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room. This is a family style feast with fried chicken and collard greens costing $25 to $30 per person. Note that they do not take reservations, so you must arrive early to secure a spot at the communal tables.

In the afternoon, spend 90 minutes exploring the Savannah Victorian Historic District to see the gingerbread trim on the homes. For dinner, you have two distinct choices. The Grey offers upscale Southern fare like shrimp and grits, while Belford's Savannah is the better choice for seafood.

Saturday Pacing Guide

Sunday: Nature and Quiet

Before leaving, visit Forsyth Park. The fountain is the most photographed spot in the city, and a walk through the oak lined paths is free and takes about 30 minutes.

If you have a car, you can choose between two nature experiences. Bonaventure Cemetery is a 1 hour self guided walk among moss draped oaks, and a map costs $10. Alternatively, you can drive to Skidaway Island State Park. Parking is $5, and you can spend 2 hours biking the 5 mile loop through the salt marsh and maritime forest.

Transport and Timing

If you are flying, use Savannah/Hilton Head International (SAV). It is 15 miles east of downtown. While you can fly into Charleston International (108 miles north) or Jacksonville International (140 miles south), SAV is the simplest option.

The best time to visit is April to May or September to October for dry weather [Source: travellersworldwide.com]. If you visit in January, the air is crisp (around 50 degrees Fahrenheit), and rooms in the Historic District can drop below $150 per night. Summer is the most popular season, but the heat can be overwhelming and prices are at their highest [Source: lonelyplanet.com].

What to Skip

If you only have one full day in the city, skip the trip to Tybee or Skidaway Island. The drive and the time spent outside the city center will eat up your limited window. Instead, stay within the 22 squares of the Historic District. The density of architecture and dining in the center is more valuable than a trip to the coast for a first time visitor.

Final Takeaway

Savannah is a city of contradictions. It is both a sleepy postcard and a lively hub of Southern food. To get the most out of a weekend, avoid the temptation to over schedule. The real value of the city is found in the slow walk between the squares, not in checking every museum off a list.