United States · duration itinerary
Savannah 10 days
Savannah enchants with its intoxicating blend of Southern charm and spectral history, offering a rich tapestry for a ten-day exploration. Beyond the iconic moss-draped oaks and antebellum mansions, the city truly shines in its vibrant arts scene, burgeoning culinary landscape, and the palpable sense of stories whispered by its historic streets. Spend your days wandering through the picturesque squares, soaking in the atmosphere of Forsyth Park, and exploring the independent boutiques and galleries of the Starland District. For a deeper dive, consider a ghost tour that delves into the city's more macabre past, or a riverboat cruise offering a different perspective of the coastal scenery. To best experience Savannah, base yourself in the Historic District for unparalleled access to its most famous sights and a charming, walkable environment. For a more local feel with a lively arts and food scene, consider the Starland District, a short trolley ride or comfortable walk from the heart of downtown. An insider truth often missed is that many of Savannah's most rewarding experiences, like discovering hidden courtyards or stumbling upon spontaneous live music, are found by simply allowing yourself to get lost in its quieter residential streets, away from the main tourist thoroughfares. Fall offers pleasant temperatures and the Savannah Film Festival, while spring brings blooming azaleas and comfortable weather for outdoor exploration. Consider visiting during a weekday to avoid weekend crowds at popular spots like Leopold's Ice Cream.
Your 10-day plan
PacePackedThis 10-day itinerary offers a balanced exploration of Savannah, Georgia, focusing on its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culinary scene. You'll wander through historic squares, visit iconic landmarks, and indulge in Lowcountry flavors. The itinerary includes a day trip to Tybee Island and opportunities to experience both famous attractions and local gems, ensuring a comprehensive and memorable visit for couples.
Historic Savannah Immersion
- Morning~30 minSavannah Visitor Centertransport hub
Begin your journey at the Savannah Visitor Center. Pick up maps, brochures, and get oriented with the city's layout and attractions. Staff can offer valuable local insights.
- Arrive early for fewer crowds and more personalized assistance.
- Morning~120 minHistoric Savannah Trolley Touractivity
Take a hop-on, hop-off trolley tour to get an overview of Savannah's historic district. It's a great way to see many of the key landmarks and learn about their history without extensive walking initially.
- Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak season.
- Midday~90 minThe Olde Pink House Restaurantrestaurant
Enjoy a classic Southern lunch in an iconic Savannah setting. This restaurant is housed in an 18th-century mansion and is known for its refined Lowcountry cuisine.
- Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner, though lunch can sometimes be more accessible.
- Afternoon~45 minCathedral of St. John the Baptistlandmark
Marvel at the stunning architecture of this magnificent cathedral, a prominent landmark in Savannah. Admire its intricate stained-glass windows and soaring spires.
- Dress respectfully as this is an active place of worship.
- Afternoon~30 minWright Squarepark
Visit one of Savannah's original historic squares. Learn about its significance, including the Tomochichi monument and the history of the hanging tree.
- Evening~120 minThe Greyrestaurant
Experience innovative Southern cuisine in a beautifully restored former Greyhound bus station. The Grey offers a unique dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
- Bookings are essential and can be difficult to secure; plan well in advance.
Riverside Charm and Culinary Delights
- Morning~90 minRiver Streetshopping
Stroll along the historic River Street, once the hub of Savannah's cotton trade. Browse the unique shops, enjoy the waterfront views, and soak in the lively atmosphere.
- Morning~60 minFactors Walkneighborhood
Explore Factors Walk, a series of elevated historic buildings connected by iron walkways. This area offers unique boutiques and art galleries.
- Midday~90 minVic's on the Riverrestaurant
Enjoy lunch with stunning views of the Savannah River. This restaurant offers classic Southern dishes and a refined dining experience.
- Afternoon~75 minOld Fort Jacksonlandmark
Visit Georgia's oldest standing brick fortification. Explore the fort, learn about its role in American history, and enjoy panoramic views of the Savannah River.
- Check for daily cannon firing demonstrations for an added historical experience.
- Afternoon~90 minWormsloe Historic Sitelandmark
Drive or take a short taxi to Wormsloe, famous for its breathtaking avenue of live oaks draped with Spanish moss. Explore the ruins of the colonial estate and learn about early Georgia history.
- The iconic oak-lined avenue is a popular photo spot; visit early or late to avoid crowds.
- Evening~120 minCotton & Ryerestaurant
Dine at this popular spot known for its elevated comfort food and craft cocktails. It offers a more contemporary take on Southern flavors in a stylish setting.
Art, Architecture, and Southern Gothic
- Morning~90 minSavannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) Museum of Artmuseum
Immerse yourself in contemporary art at this renowned museum. The collection features a diverse range of exhibitions from established and emerging artists.
- Check their schedule for any special exhibitions or events during your visit.
- Midday~45 minLeopold's Ice Creamcafe
Indulge in a scoop (or two!) at Savannah's oldest ice cream parlor, a beloved local institution since 1919. Expect a line, but it's part of the experience.
- Try the Tutti Frutti or the Butter Pecan, signature flavors.
- Afternoon~120 minBonaventure Cemeterylandmark
Take a guided tour or explore independently this hauntingly beautiful Victorian cemetery, famous for its stunning sculptures and Spanish moss-draped trees. It's a significant part of Savannah's Southern Gothic mystique.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking on uneven terrain.
- Consider a guided tour to learn about the history and notable figures buried here.
- Afternoon~45 minColonial Park Cemeterypark
Visit another historic cemetery, older and more centrally located than Bonaventure. It offers a glimpse into Savannah's early history and features many notable gravesites.
- Evening~120 minElizabeth on 37threstaurant
Savor an elegant dinner in a beautifully restored Victorian home. This restaurant is celebrated for its sophisticated take on Southern cuisine and its extensive wine list.
Island Escape and Coastal Flavors
- Morning~240 minTybee Islandbeach
Take a day trip to Tybee Island, Savannah's beach destination. Enjoy the sun, sand, and sea, and explore the charming beach town.
- Consider renting bicycles to explore the island at your own pace.
- Midday~45 minTybee Island Pier and Pavilionlandmark
Walk along the pier, enjoy the ocean breeze, and watch the waves. It's a central point for beach access and offers great views.
- Midday~90 minThe Crab Shackrestaurant
Enjoy a casual seafood lunch with waterfront views. Famous for its 'low country boil' and laid-back atmosphere.
- Be prepared for a lively and sometimes messy dining experience; bibs are provided!
- Afternoon~75 minTybee Island Light Station and Museumlandmark
Climb to the top of Georgia's tallest and oldest lighthouse for panoramic views of the island and ocean. Explore the museum located in the former keeper's cottage.
- There are many steps to climb, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for the physical exertion.
- Evening~90 minThe Olde Pink House (Back Porch)restaurant
Return to Savannah and enjoy a more casual dinner on the back porch of The Olde Pink House. It offers a different, more relaxed ambiance than the main dining room.
Savannah Squares and Hidden Gems
- Morning~90 minForsyth Parkpark
Spend the morning exploring Savannah's most famous park. Admire the iconic fountain, stroll through the gardens, and enjoy the local atmosphere.
- Morning~75 minMercer Williams House Museummuseum
Tour this stunning Italian Renaissance-style mansion, famous as the setting for 'Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.' Learn about its history and notable residents.
- Photography inside the house is typically not permitted.
- Midday~75 minMrs. Wilkes' Dining Roomrestaurant
Experience a true Southern family-style meal. This legendary spot serves a daily changing menu of classic comfort dishes at communal tables.
- Arrive before opening to get a seat; they do not take reservations and are cash-only.
- Be prepared to share a table with other diners – it's part of the charm!
- Afternoon~30 minChippewa Squarepark
Visit this picturesque square, famous for the bench scene in 'Forrest Gump.' It's a lovely spot to relax and people-watch.
- Afternoon~60 minJuliette Gordon Low Birthplacemuseum
Tour the birthplace of the founder of the Girl Scouts of the USA. This historic house offers insights into her life and the organization's origins.
- Tours are guided and run on a schedule; check their website for times.
- Evening~120 minHusk Savannahrestaurant
Enjoy a meal focused on Southern ingredients and culinary traditions. Husk is known for its commitment to local sourcing and creative dishes.
Culinary Exploration and Local Flavors
- Morning~90 minSavannah City Marketshopping
Explore the historic City Market, a four-block area filled with unique shops, galleries, and restaurants. It's a vibrant hub for local arts and crafts.
- Midday~75 minGryphon Tea Roomrestaurant
Have lunch in this charming tea room located in a historic former pharmacy. It offers a delightful menu of sandwiches, salads, and light fare.
- The atmosphere is elegant and perfect for a leisurely lunch.
- Afternoon~60 minAndrew Low Housemuseum
Tour this beautiful Greek Revival townhouse, designed by William Jay. It offers insights into the lives of Savannah's prominent families and features period furnishings.
- This house is also associated with Juliette Gordon Low.
- Afternoon~90 minTelfair Academymuseum
Visit one of the South's oldest public art museums, featuring a diverse collection of American and European art. The building itself is a magnificent example of Regency architecture.
- Your ticket often includes admission to the nearby Jepson Center for the Arts.
- Evening~120 minThe Ordinaryrestaurant
Enjoy a meal at this popular spot known for its excellent seafood and oyster bar. The menu features creative dishes with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
History and Maritime Heritage
- Morning~90 minShips of the Sea Maritime Museummuseum
Explore Savannah's rich maritime history through fascinating exhibits of model ships, maritime art, and artifacts. The museum is housed in the historic Rice Miller complex.
- Midday~90 minThe Pirates' Houserestaurant
Dine in a legendary Savannah restaurant with a history dating back to 1753. Known for its traditional Southern fare and its role in maritime lore.
- Ask about the restaurant's history and the pirate legends associated with it.
- Afternoon~60 minOlde Harbour Storeshopping
Browse this unique shop on River Street for souvenirs, local crafts, and nautical-themed gifts. It's a good place to find something special.
- Afternoon~60 minFactors Walk (upper levels)neighborhood
Explore the upper levels of Factors Walk, which were once connected by iron bridges. These levels offer a different perspective and house art galleries and boutiques.
- Evening~60 minThe Olde Pink House (Upstairs Bar)bar
Enjoy a pre-dinner drink or a nightcap in the upstairs bar of The Olde Pink House. It offers a more intimate and relaxed setting than the main dining room.
- Night~120 minThe Georgia Queen Riverboatactivity
Take a dinner cruise on the Savannah River for a unique perspective of the city skyline at night. Enjoy live music and a buffet dinner.
- Book in advance, especially for weekend cruises.
Gardens and Green Spaces
- Morning~180 minSkidaway Island State Parkpark
Explore the natural beauty of Skidaway Island, located a short drive from Savannah. Hike or bike along trails that wind through maritime forests and salt marshes.
- Look for wildlife such as deer, marsh birds, and dolphins.
- Midday~75 minThe Wyld Pennyrestaurant
Enjoy a casual lunch near Skidaway Island or back in Savannah. This spot offers fresh, locally sourced dishes in a relaxed setting.
- Afternoon~120 minBroughton Street Shoppingshopping
Spend the afternoon exploring Broughton Street, Savannah's premier shopping destination. Find a mix of national retailers and local boutiques.
- Evening~120 minCollins Quarterrestaurant
Experience a modern Australian-inspired dining experience. Known for its creative small plates, excellent coffee, and lively atmosphere.
- Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner.
Historical Architecture and Local Brews
- Morning~120 minHistoric Savannah Foundation Touractivity
Take a guided walking tour focused on Savannah's incredible architecture. Learn about the city's historic preservation efforts and architectural styles.
- Book this tour in advance as spots can be limited.
- Midday~60 minZunzi'srestaurant
Enjoy a casual and flavorful lunch at this popular South African-inspired eatery. Their 'Conquistador' chicken sandwich is a local favorite.
- Afternoon~90 minSCAD Museum of Art (Jepson Center)museum
Visit the Jepson Center for the Arts, an architectural marvel that complements the SCAD Museum of Art. It houses modern and contemporary art collections and features interactive exhibits.
- Often included with admission to the Telfair Academy.
- Afternoon~75 minMoon River Brewing Companybar
Relax with a craft beer at one of Savannah's oldest operating breweries. Enjoy their selection of ales and lagers in a historic setting.
- Evening~120 minVic's on the Riverrestaurant
Enjoy a final upscale dinner overlooking the Savannah River. Experience refined Southern cuisine and excellent service.
Leisurely Departure
- Morning~60 minCity Market Coffee Roasterscafe
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and coffee at this local favorite. It's a great spot to reflect on your trip and enjoy a relaxed morning.
- Morning~90 minSavannah History Museummuseum
Visit this museum located in the former Central of Georgia Railway passenger station. It offers a comprehensive overview of Savannah's history.
- Midday~75 minThe Marshall Houserestaurant
Have a final Southern lunch at The Marshall House, known for its charming atmosphere and delicious cuisine.
- Afternoon~120 minSavannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV)transport hub
Head to the airport for your departure.
Insider tips
- ◆Book popular restaurants and tours in advance, as Savannah is a popular destination.
- ◆Take advantage of the numerous historic squares for breaks and photo opportunities.
- ◆Consider using ride-sharing services or trolleys for longer distances, as parking can be challenging in the historic district.
- ◆Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months; carry a reusable water bottle.
Packing highlights
- ◆Comfortable walking shoes
- ◆Lightweight clothing (layers are recommended)
- ◆Sunscreen and hat
- ◆Insect repellent (especially for evenings and outdoor activities)
- ◆Camera
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