Savannah
United States
Why Savannah is a great destination
Savannah pairs oak-draped beauty, inventive shopping and Lowcountry flavour with lighter footfall—rich in experiences without the crush.
- Atmosphere: Stroll between 22 oak-shaded squares from Forsyth Park to the cobbled River Street, savouring Southern hospitality and space to linger—historic-city charm minus the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds.
- Culture & creativity: A SCAD-fuelled arts scene keeps things fresh—ShopSCAD, independent galleries and Starland District’s First Fridays—authentic energy over packaged “old town” theatrics.
- Food & drink: Lowcountry flavours at friendly prices—shrimp and grits, warm pralines, Savannah Bee Company tastings and Leopold’s ice cream—with the easygoing “to‑go cup” tradition for relaxed evening wanders.
- Shopping & design: Thoughtful browsing on Broughton Street and Whitaker’s Design District (One Fish Two Fish, Custard), plus real-deal antiquing at Alex Raskin Antiques and Picker Joe’s—distinctive finds without tourist-trap mark-ups.
Who should go to Savannah?
Savannah suits travellers who love historic charm, creative energy, and leisurely browsing. Its cobblestones and leafy squares pair beautifully with SCAD-fuelled boutiques and artisan markets. Whether you’re after vintage finds, handcrafted goods or gourmet Southern treats, this compact city makes shopping a pleasure.
- History lovers: Wander River Street’s cobbles and shop inside restored cotton warehouses, then browse Broughton Street—once dubbed the ‘Fifth Avenue of the South’.
- Design & style shoppers: Hunt for elegant homewares, fashion and jewellery in the Whitaker Street Design District and curated icons like The Paris Market.
- Art & indie culture fans: Discover SCAD-driven creativity in the Starland District, with vintage boutiques, record shops and First Friday happenings that feel like a Southern arts quarter.
- Foodies: Snack your way through pralines on River Street, local honey at Savannah Bee Company, and farm-fresh treats at the Forsyth Farmers’ Market.
- Families: Walkable squares, candy kitchens where you can watch pralines being made, and friendly markets make stress-free days out.
- City-breakers: A compact, strollable city-break with City Market and Plant Riverside for shopping, dining and live entertainment—easily linked by the free DOT shuttle.
Who should go to Savannah?
Savannah suits travellers who love historic charm, creative energy, and leisurely browsing. Its cobblestones and leafy squares pair beautifully with SCAD-fuelled boutiques and artisan markets. Whether you’re after vintage finds, handcrafted goods or gourmet Southern treats, this compact city makes shopping a pleasure.
- History lovers: Wander River Street’s cobbles and shop inside restored cotton warehouses, then browse Broughton Street—once dubbed the ‘Fifth Avenue of the South’.
- Design & style shoppers: Hunt for elegant homewares, fashion and jewellery in the Whitaker Street Design District and curated icons like The Paris Market.
- Art & indie culture fans: Discover SCAD-driven creativity in the Starland District, with vintage boutiques, record shops and First Friday happenings that feel like a Southern arts quarter.
- Foodies: Snack your way through pralines on River Street, local honey at Savannah Bee Company, and farm-fresh treats at the Forsyth Farmers’ Market.
- Families: Walkable squares, candy kitchens where you can watch pralines being made, and friendly markets make stress-free days out.
- City-breakers: A compact, strollable city-break with City Market and Plant Riverside for shopping, dining and live entertainment—easily linked by the free DOT shuttle.
Top things to do in Savannah
Here are the unmissable shopping highlights of Savannah, blending centuries-old character with contemporary creativity. Use this shortlist to hit the city’s signature streets, districts and markets without missing a beat.
- Walk Broughton Street’s restored storefronts for a mix of indie boutiques, design-forward homewares and beloved local brands like Savannah Bee Company.
- Explore River Street and the upscale Plant Riverside District for cobblestones, pralines being made, galleries and polished riverfront shops.
- Visit the Whitaker Street Design District for curated interiors, fashion and jewellery at spots like One Fish Two Fish and Custard Boutique.
- Take a spin through City Market for artist studios, locally made gifts and sweet treats from Savannah institutions.
- Hike the Starland District to uncover vintage fashion, vinyl, maker studios and First Friday pop-ups around Bull Street.
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Top things to do in Savannah
Here are the unmissable shopping highlights of Savannah, blending centuries-old character with contemporary creativity. Use this shortlist to hit the city’s signature streets, districts and markets without missing a beat.
- Walk Broughton Street’s restored storefronts for a mix of indie boutiques, design-forward homewares and beloved local brands like Savannah Bee Company.
- Explore River Street and the upscale Plant Riverside District for cobblestones, pralines being made, galleries and polished riverfront shops.
- Visit the Whitaker Street Design District for curated interiors, fashion and jewellery at spots like One Fish Two Fish and Custard Boutique.
- Take a spin through City Market for artist studios, locally made gifts and sweet treats from Savannah institutions.
- Hike the Starland District to uncover vintage fashion, vinyl, maker studios and First Friday pop-ups around Bull Street.
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3-day Savannah itinerary
Day 1: Historic heart and riverfront
Ease into Savannah’s rhythm among moss-draped squares and handsome 19th‑century shopfronts. Today blends flagship streets, independent boutiques, and river views — all best explored on foot with frequent café stops.
- Morning: Start on Broughton Street for a relaxed browse of local boutiques and design-forward homewares (stop into the Paris Market for a wander). Pop into a honey tasting at the Savannah Bee Company and pace yourself; many shops open around 10am.
- Midday: Meander to City Market for galleries, artisan jewellery and easy lunch options in the courtyards. If it’s warm, plan short indoor breaks — Savannah’s summer humidity is fierce by midday.
- Afternoon: Head down to River Street via the historic Factors Walk and its iron footbridges. Watch pralines being made at a candy kitchen, then continue west to the Plant Riverside District for upscale shops in a dramatic, repurposed power plant (use the free DOT Express Shuttle if your feet need a rest).
- Evening: Catch sunset over the river from a rooftop, then take a to‑go cup stroll back through the cobbles (16oz plastic only within the Historic District). For a quieter nightcap, slip a block or two inland and enjoy the calmer squares.
Day 2: Design district and Starland creatives
Today leans into Savannah’s design DNA — interiors, books, and SCAD-led creativity — before shifting south to the Starland District’s vintage, vinyl and maker energy. It’s a great day to meet shop owners and discover pieces you won’t find elsewhere.
- Morning: Loop Forsyth Park early while it’s cool; if it’s a Saturday, browse the Forsyth Farmers’ Market for local produce, honey and baked goods. Wander the Whitaker Street Design District for curated home goods and fashion at spots like One Fish Two Fish and Custard Boutique (ask about shipping for larger items).
- Midday: Tuck into literary Savannah at E. Shaver, Bookseller by Madison Square, then browse ShopSCAD for work by students and alumni — a strong bet for unique art and jewellery. Plan boutiques first, as many independents close around 5–7pm.
- Afternoon: Ride or stroll to the Starland District for vintage clothing, records and small maker studios (try Starland Strange and Bazaar and neighbouring shops). Keep an eye out for murals and pop‑ups; on First Fridays the whole area turns into an open‑studio street scene.
- Evening: Stay in Starland for dinner and a low‑key bar with local music, or head back uptown for a late ice‑cream on Broughton (queues ease later). In cooler months, this is a perfect evening for gallery browsing; in peak summer, aim for shaded patios and indoor venues.
Day 3: Antiques, treasure hunting and last looks
Round out your visit with Savannah’s storied antiques and vintage scene, then pick up final gifts before a relaxed farewell wander. Today suits curious browsers and serious collectors alike.
- Morning: Begin near Monterey Square at Alex Raskin Antiques — part shop, part time capsule — and take your time (mind the creaky floors and tight corners). Combine with a gentle square-to-square walk for photos while the light is soft.
- Midday: Hop to Picker Joe’s Antique Mall & Vintage Market for a warehouse-style hunt through mid‑century furniture, signage and curios (rideshare is easiest). Bring measurements and photos of your space if you’re considering furniture.
- Afternoon: Swing back toward the centre for Wright Square Vintage & Retro Mall or a large-format dealer like Jere’s Antiques if you’re chasing European pieces. For edible souvenirs, restock at City Market or a local cookie shop; pack heat‑sensitive treats deep in your bag.
- Evening: Do a final lap along Broughton to scoop up anything you’ve slept on. In November–December, linger for the festive lights and tree; in summer, time dinner for after sunset and enjoy a breezy riverfront stroll with a to‑go cup. Pro tip: park once and use the ParkSavannah app or the free DOT shuttle to stay stress‑free.
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Food and drink in Savannah
Savannah’s food scene blends Lowcountry comfort, coastal seafood, and Gullah-Geechee heritage with a serious sweet tooth. It’s casual, walkable, and social—think open-container cocktails, markets under live oaks, and bakeries perfuming cobbled streets.
- Shrimp & Grits – Classic Lowcountry staple: sautéed local shrimp over creamy stone‑ground grits, often with smoky tasso gravy. Atmosphere: cosy cafés and bistros around the squares.
- Pralines – Warm, buttery pecan confections made in small batches; a Savannah rite of passage. Atmosphere: bustling River Street sweet shops with open kitchens and river views.
- To‑Go Cup Cocktails – Craft drinks (try Chatham Artillery Punch) enjoyed legally while you stroll the Historic District. Atmosphere: lively bars spilling onto cobbled lanes and shaded squares.
- Forsyth Farmers’ Market – Saturday haul of coastal produce, breads, and small‑batch goods from local makers. Atmosphere: a friendly market under live oaks at the park’s south end.
Eat like a local: Discover Savannah top-rated restaurants on Tripadvisor
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Food and drink in Savannah
Savannah’s food scene blends Lowcountry comfort, coastal seafood, and Gullah-Geechee heritage with a serious sweet tooth. It’s casual, walkable, and social—think open-container cocktails, markets under live oaks, and bakeries perfuming cobbled streets.
- Shrimp & Grits – Classic Lowcountry staple: sautéed local shrimp over creamy stone‑ground grits, often with smoky tasso gravy. Atmosphere: cosy cafés and bistros around the squares.
- Pralines – Warm, buttery pecan confections made in small batches; a Savannah rite of passage. Atmosphere: bustling River Street sweet shops with open kitchens and river views.
- To‑Go Cup Cocktails – Craft drinks (try Chatham Artillery Punch) enjoyed legally while you stroll the Historic District. Atmosphere: lively bars spilling onto cobbled lanes and shaded squares.
- Forsyth Farmers’ Market – Saturday haul of coastal produce, breads, and small‑batch goods from local makers. Atmosphere: a friendly market under live oaks at the park’s south end.
Eat like a local: Discover Savannah top-rated restaurants on Tripadvisor
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Where to stay in Savannah
Choosing the right neighbourhood in Savannah sets the tone for your trip. Decide whether you want riverside buzz, history‑soaked squares, leafy residential calm or a creative edge, then base yourself there for the easiest days out.
- Historic District (North of Forsyth Park) — Iconic squares, brick townhouses and walkable sights; perfect for first‑timers and history lovers who want museums, shops and cafés on the doorstep.
- River Street & Plant Riverside — Waterfront views and lively nightlife in converted cotton warehouses; ideal for couples and groups seeking bars, music and easy strolls, but expect crowds and cobblestones.
- Victorian District & Forsyth Park — Leafy streets, grand porches and a slower pace a short walk from downtown; suits families and longer stays craving space, value and a local feel.
- Starland District — Creative hub with indie boutiques, murals and coffee roasters south of the park; best for design‑minded travellers after authentic vibes, later nights and better parking.
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Where to stay in Savannah
Choosing the right neighbourhood in Savannah sets the tone for your trip. Decide whether you want riverside buzz, history‑soaked squares, leafy residential calm or a creative edge, then base yourself there for the easiest days out.
- Historic District (North of Forsyth Park) — Iconic squares, brick townhouses and walkable sights; perfect for first‑timers and history lovers who want museums, shops and cafés on the doorstep.
- River Street & Plant Riverside — Waterfront views and lively nightlife in converted cotton warehouses; ideal for couples and groups seeking bars, music and easy strolls, but expect crowds and cobblestones.
- Victorian District & Forsyth Park — Leafy streets, grand porches and a slower pace a short walk from downtown; suits families and longer stays craving space, value and a local feel.
- Starland District — Creative hub with indie boutiques, murals and coffee roasters south of the park; best for design‑minded travellers after authentic vibes, later nights and better parking.
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Good to know before you go to Savannah
Savannah is easy to navigate, with a compact, walkable Historic District laid out on a clear grid of squares. A few local quirks—festival dates, parking, and summer heat—are worth knowing to plan smoothly.
- Affordability: Expect casual meals at £10–£18, dinner for two from £50–£90, mid‑range hotels in the Historic District at roughly £140–£250 per night (boutique stays £220–£400+; budget options outside the core £80–£120), plus hotel taxes and common nightly parking fees.
- Transport: The Historic District is very walkable; use the free DOT Express Shuttle and Savannah Belles Ferry, CAT buses or rideshares for short hops, and hire a car for day trips like Tybee Island or Wormsloe (city parking uses the ParkSavannah app).
- Language: English is the main language and universally understood in hospitality, retail, and transport settings.
- Safety & comfort: Tourist areas are generally safe and friendly for families and solo travellers; at night stick to well‑lit streets, keep valuables out of cars, mind uneven cobblestones and summer heat/humidity, and note the legal Historic District “to‑go cup” open‑container rule.
- Crowds: Peak periods are March–May (especially St Patrick’s Day) and autumn weekends into December; summers are busy on the riverfront but hot, while January–February and late August–September (outside holiday weekends) are quieter and better value.
Good to know before you go to Savannah
Savannah is easy to navigate, with a compact, walkable Historic District laid out on a clear grid of squares. A few local quirks—festival dates, parking, and summer heat—are worth knowing to plan smoothly.
- Affordability: Expect casual meals at £10–£18, dinner for two from £50–£90, mid‑range hotels in the Historic District at roughly £140–£250 per night (boutique stays £220–£400+; budget options outside the core £80–£120), plus hotel taxes and common nightly parking fees.
- Transport: The Historic District is very walkable; use the free DOT Express Shuttle and Savannah Belles Ferry, CAT buses or rideshares for short hops, and hire a car for day trips like Tybee Island or Wormsloe (city parking uses the ParkSavannah app).
- Language: English is the main language and universally understood in hospitality, retail, and transport settings.
- Safety & comfort: Tourist areas are generally safe and friendly for families and solo travellers; at night stick to well‑lit streets, keep valuables out of cars, mind uneven cobblestones and summer heat/humidity, and note the legal Historic District “to‑go cup” open‑container rule.
- Crowds: Peak periods are March–May (especially St Patrick’s Day) and autumn weekends into December; summers are busy on the riverfront but hot, while January–February and late August–September (outside holiday weekends) are quieter and better value.
Best time to go to Savannah
Seasonality in Savannah means prime browsing in spring and autumn, steamy summers that favour early/late shopping, and mild winters with holiday sparkle followed by post‑holiday calm. Crowds peak around spring blooms and festive events, while shoulder periods feel more local and leisurely.
- Spring: Pleasant temperatures, peak blooms and festivals; busiest season with lively streets and markets—book ahead.
- High Summer: Very hot and humid with occasional storms; midday crowds but a slower, languid vibe—shop mornings/evenings and enjoy air‑conditioned boutiques.
- Autumn–Winter: Warm-to-mild autumn and cosy, cooler winters; lighter crowds except for festive weekends—November–December feel twinkly and buzzy, January–February are quiet with good deals.
Best time to go to Savannah
Seasonality in Savannah means prime browsing in spring and autumn, steamy summers that favour early/late shopping, and mild winters with holiday sparkle followed by post‑holiday calm. Crowds peak around spring blooms and festive events, while shoulder periods feel more local and leisurely.
- Spring: Pleasant temperatures, peak blooms and festivals; busiest season with lively streets and markets—book ahead.
- High Summer: Very hot and humid with occasional storms; midday crowds but a slower, languid vibe—shop mornings/evenings and enjoy air‑conditioned boutiques.
- Autumn–Winter: Warm-to-mild autumn and cosy, cooler winters; lighter crowds except for festive weekends—November–December feel twinkly and buzzy, January–February are quiet with good deals.
Share Savannah with friends and start planning your trip together.
How to get to Savannah
By Air
- Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV): ~10 miles/16 km northwest of the Historic District; 20–25 minutes by car or rideshare. Non-stop flights from major US hubs including Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, Chicago, New York City, Washington DC, Philadelphia, Boston, Miami and Orlando. Car hire, taxis and rideshares available at the terminal.
- Hilton Head Island Airport (HHH): ~40 miles/64 km; about 1 hour by car. Limited regional services; useful if combining with Hilton Head.
- Charleston International Airport (CHS): ~107 miles/172 km; around 2 hours by car. Wider domestic network; good alternative with car hire.
- Jacksonville International Airport (JAX): ~140 miles/225 km; roughly 2 hours by car. Often competitive fares; straightforward drive via I‑95.
By Train
- Savannah Amtrak Station (2611 Seaboard Coastline Dr): ~3–4 miles/5–6 km west of downtown; 10–15 minutes by taxi/rideshare.
- Routes: Silver Meteor, Silver Star and Palmetto with direct services to New York City, Philadelphia, Washington DC, Richmond, Charleston, Jacksonville, Orlando and Miami.
- Typical journey times: Charleston 1 hr 45–2 hrs; Jacksonville ~2 hrs; Orlando 5–6 hrs; Washington DC 10–11 hrs; New York City 13–14 hrs (overnight options).
By Bus
- Operators: Greyhound, FlixBus and Southeastern Stages link Savannah with Atlanta, Jacksonville, Charleston, Orlando and other Southeast cities.
- Stops: Downtown locations vary by operator; check your ticket for the exact pick‑up/drop‑off point.
- Typical journey times: Charleston ~2–3 hrs; Jacksonville ~2–3 hrs; Atlanta 4–5 hrs; Orlando 5–6 hrs.
By Car
- Main routes: I‑95 (north–south along the East Coast), I‑16 (direct into downtown from Macon/Atlanta), US‑17 (coastal), US‑80 (to/from Tybee Island).
- Approximate drives: Charleston ~2 hrs (108 miles/174 km); Jacksonville ~2 hrs (140 miles/225 km); Atlanta 3.5–4 hrs (250 miles/400 km); Hilton Head Island 45–60 mins (40 miles/64 km); Orlando 4.5–5 hrs (260–280 miles/420–450 km).
- Notes: No tolls on I‑16 or this section of I‑95; parking in the Historic District is paid/limited—consider leaving the car once in town.
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