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Planning a trip to Savannah, Georgia? You’ve come to the right place!
With its cobblestone streets and grand historic homes, Savannah is the kind of city that instantly pulls you in. After multiple visits and plenty of unforgettable experiences, we’ve put together the ultimate list of things to do in this charming Southern gem.
From exploring the Historic District to indulging in Savannah’s best food or even diving into its haunted past, this city is packed with must-see sights and unique experiences. Get ready for an unforgettable Savannah adventure!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our FAVORITE thing we did in Savannah was this food tour in the historic part of the city! It included amazing Southern food at spots locals love. We were in a small group and had so much fun tasting everything and learning some of the city’s history along the way!
- Don't Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Savannah, Georgia
- 1. See Savannah’s top sights on a hop-on hop-off trolly tour
- 2. Taste your way around the city
- 3. Learn about Savannah’s haunted past on a ghost tour
- 4. Explore the Bonaventure Cemetery
- 5. See Savannah’s Historic District
- 6. Visit Tybee Island and go on a dolphin cruise
- 7. Explore Savannah on a Segway
- 8. Have a laugh on a hilarious trolley tour
- 9. Explore the city on a bicycle
- 10. Enjoy lunch on a riverboat cruise
- Where to Stay in Savannah, Georgia
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in the USA
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Savannah, Georgia
1. See Savannah’s top sights on a hop-on hop-off trolly tour
- Duration: 1 – 2 days
- Time: Hop-on Hop-off between 9 am – 5 pm
- Highlights: One or two-day hop-on hop-off trolly tour (depending on the option selected), see the most popular sights in Savannah (Forsyth Park, City Market, River Street, and more)
- Inclusions: Narrated trolly tour
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check out 5,300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This trolley tour was a highlight of our recent visit to Savannah! It’s the best way to see the city’s iconic sights without exhausting yourself.
With 15 stops, you can cruise past the city’s beautiful stately mansions while soaking in Savannah’s rich history. Hop off whenever something catches your eye, then hop back on when you’re ready. Or if you’re just along for the ride, the full loop takes about two hours—but let’s be real, resisting the urge to get off and explore is nearly impossible!
Our guide, Richard, was fantastic! He was a walking encyclopedia of Savannah’s past, sharing everything from ghost stories to legendary love affairs. He really brought the city’s history to life, proving why Savannah is one of America’s most romantic and haunted cities.
My favorite stop had to be Forsyth Park! It’s home to the famous fountain where Forrest Gump once contemplated life over chocolates and luckily, had plenty of shade (because let’s be real – Savannah gets hot!).
River Street Marketplace was another favorite of ours. We strolled along the cobblestones, popped into shops, and grabbed a praline (or three!) before heading to Ellis Square, where you can play life-size chess or cool off in the fountains.
From grand architecture to vibrant markets and beautiful parks, this tour has something for everyone. No matter where you hop on or off, it makes sightseeing in Savannah truly effortless!
Book a one or two-day trolly ticket here and enjoy Savannah at your own pace!
2. Taste your way around the city
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 11 am, 11:30 am, 12:45 pm, 1:15 pm
- Highlights: Culinary and cultural walking food tour in historic Savannah, learn about Savannah’s history, taste local cuisines
- Inclusions: Professional/local guide, food tastings from 6 popular Savannah eateries, non-alcoholic beverages, map of food tour route
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 2,700+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you love food as much as we do, this culinary and cultural walking tour is the ultimate way to taste Savannah’s history!
With only 14 people per group, the experience feels personal, like exploring the city with a few foodie friends. We easily chatted with our guide, asked questions, and savored each bite without feeling rushed.
As we strolled through Savannah’s four original squares and along the waterfront, we stopped at locally loved spots to sample everything from classic Southern staples to modern twists on Lowcountry cuisine. I’m talking shrimp and grits, sweet tea, fried green tomatoes, and even pork belly donut sliders!
Tastings rotate, but we lucked out and went to the Savannah Bee Company for a honey tasting. Let’s just say there’s a reason it’s an award-winning favorite! Next was 22 Square Restaurant, where the hot honey chicken and waffles were to die for! They were the perfect balance of crispy, sweet, and spicy.
One thing we really loved was how this tour blended food with history. Our guide didn’t just help serve up delicious food—he dished out interesting facts, from Savannah’s colonial days to its Prohibition-era speakeasies. We were just as fascinated by the stories as we were by the food on our plates!
All the tastings add up to a meal, so make sure you come hungry, wear comfortable shoes, and get ready for some incredible food and storytelling – there’s a reason this tour has thousands of 5-star reviews!
Reserve your spot here and see why Savannah is one of the best food cities in the South!
3. Learn about Savannah’s haunted past on a ghost tour
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: Hourly departures from 5 pm – 9 pm (dates and times vary)
- Highlights: Candlelit ghost walking tour in the Savannah, learn about the city’s most legendary ghost stories, see iconic landmarks, and get insights into Savannah’s history
- Inclusions: Professional guide
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 2,700+reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Savannah is well known as one of the most haunted cities in the US, and after taking this award-winning candlelit ghost tour, we understand why!
Walking through the historic streets at night, with only the dim glow of the lantern, set the perfect atmosphere for uncovering Savannah’s darker past.
Our guide, Dan, really played the part and had a knack for storytelling. He shared chilling stories of those who had lived—and possibly still remained—within the city and its walls. At one point, I swear I felt a sudden temperature drop. Maybe coincidence or something more?
Unlike other ghost tours we’ve been on, this one went deeper than most into Savannah’s fraught history of war, executions, murders, and mystery, making each story even more unsettling. The flickering candlelight added to the tension, making every footstep feel a little too close for comfort.
It was like we had stepped straight into the ghost stories we were hearing! There were no jump scares or gimmicks. Every tale was backed by true accounts and incredible storytelling, making the experience even more authentic and chilling.
If you’re into paranormal activity, I dare you to try out this Savannah haunted history tour. We even left with a few new spooky stories of our own!
Check availability and book this top-rated ghost tour here before it sells out!
4. Explore the Bonaventure Cemetery
- Duration: 2 hours and 45 minutes
- Time: 10 am, 2 pm
- Highlights: Small group tour exploring the Bonaventure Cemetery on foot with a historian guide, learn about the city’s history, culture, and famous oak trees
- Inclusions: 6th generation local and historian guide, transportation, water, umbrella, bug spray, downtown Savannah hotel pick-up/dropoff
- Rating: 5 stars (check 1,250+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
A cemetery might not be the first place you think of visiting in Savannah, but trust us, this 5-star Bonaventure Cemetery tour set the stage for one of the most beautiful and haunting places we’ve ever seen!
Bonaventure Cemetery isn’t just a burial ground but a masterpiece of history, art, and eerie beauty. This small-group tour made the experience intimate and personal, with plenty of time to soak in the stories and scenery. Transportation from downtown Savannah is included, so it was super easy to explore this iconic spot.
What really made this tour exceptional was our guide, Tim. He’s a sixth-generation Savannah local who knew every legend, ghost story, and hidden detail about Bonaventure. For over two hours, he led us through moss-draped pathways, past elaborate headstones and statues, bringing Savannah’s history to life with his humor, deep knowledge, and captivating storytelling.
We stopped at the graves of famous figures like poet Johnny Mercer and songwriter Conrad Aiken, learning not just about their legacies but also about the quirky and sometimes mysterious circumstances surrounding their burials. We even drove through other parts of the cemetery, getting a feel for its sheer size—we couldn’t believe it was over 100 acres!
By the end, it didn’t feel like we had just toured a cemetery, it felt like we had stepped into Savannah’s past and walked alongside the people who built it. This Bonaventure Cemetery tour is one you won’t forget—there is a reason it has so many 5-star reviews!
Book this top-rated tour today and see why it’s one of the city’s most unique attractions!
Related Read: To make the most of your time in Savannah, take a look at our detailed 3-day itinerary full of the best things to do, hidden gems, and places to eat!
5. See Savannah’s Historic District
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 9:30 am and 1 pm (10 am and 1 pm on Sundays)
- Highlights: Guided walking tour of historic Savannah, see historic homes and buildings, learn from a resident guide
- Inclusions: Professional local guide
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 2,300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Calling all history buffs! Step back in time on this historic walking tour as you explore Savannah’s iconic Historic District. Guided by a knowledgeable local expert, this tour winds through cobblestone alleyways and past some of the city’s most important landmarks, giving you a deep dive into Savannah’s fascinating past.
We started in Oglethorpe Square and then strolled by beautifully preserved historic homes, admiring the Civil War-era architecture that has clearly stood the test of time. One of the more unexpected stops? The original Girl Scout Headquarters—which, of course, sparked a lively debate about the best cookies. (For the record, I’m firmly on Team Thin Mints!).
From there, we made our way to Forsyth Park, which quickly became my favorite stop. The iconic fountain looks like something out of a painting. Except it’s also straight out of a movie! Forrest Gump fans will recognize the park from the famous bench scene!
The tour wrapped up along River Street. Once a busy cotton hub, the old warehouses now house lively shops, waterfront restaurants, and some of the best spots in town to grab a drink.
The bonus? We walked away with tons of great local recommendations—from the best spot for shrimp and grits to hidden cocktail bars we would never have known existed.
This tour didn’t just show us Savannah, it made us feel part of it. We highly recommend it if you want to get to know the city the right way!
Read the great reviews and reserve your spot on this historical walking tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
6. Visit Tybee Island and go on a dolphin cruise
- Duration: 5 to 6 hours
- Time: 9:30 am, 11 am, 11:30 am (not available Sundays)
- Highlights: Go on a dolphin-watching cruise, free time at Savannah’s most popular beach, climb the Tybee Island Lighthouse (admission not included), have a seafood lunch (not included)
- Inclusions: Trolley/bus transportation, pickup and drop-off from downtown Savannah meeting point, dolphin cruise
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 1,100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
For anyone craving a mix of beach time, seafood, and wildlife in Savannah, this Tybee Island tour is the way to go! With round-trip transportation, a dolphin cruise, and free time to explore, it’s a stress-free way to experience the best of Savannah’s favorite beach escape.
The trip kicks off in downtown Savannah, where you’ll hop on a trolley or bus for the short drive to Tybee. Not having to deal with parking? Already a huge win!
The first stop is The Crab Shack, where “the elite eat in their bare feet.” This place was as laid back as it gets, and the peel-and-eat shrimp were some of the freshest we’ve ever tasted! Lunch isn’t included in the tour price, but it’s well worth it. Plus, you’ll skip the long wait that walk-ins often face.
Next, we hit the water for a dolphin cruise. Tip—bring binoculars to help spot dolphins in the distant waves! Along the way, we also passed by Fort Pulaski and the Cockspur Lighthouse, which were great bonus sights while we were scanning the water for more dolphins.
Afterward, we had some free time to dip our toes in the ocean and snap a photo at the Tybee Island Lighthouse. If you have the energy to climb to the top, there’s an additional fee, but the panoramic views are unforgettable!
This was by far one of our favorite tours in Savannah! With so many 5-star reviews, it’s no wonder this one fills up fast – so book it early!
Secure your spot on this island adventure tour here before it sells out!
7. Explore Savannah on a Segway
- Duration: 1 hour
- Time: 10 am, 11 am, 12 pm, 1 pm
- Highlights: Small-group Segway tour of Savannah, visit historic neighborhoods and landmarks
- Inclusions: Guided Segway tour, Segway training
- Rating: 5 stars (check 1,000+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Don’t get me wrong, walking tours are great, but gliding through Savannah on a Segway? Way cooler! This small-group segway tour lets you cruise through the largest Historic District in the US, soaking in its rich history without wearing out your feet.
The tour starts with a quick Segway lesson, so if you’re like me and you’ve never ridden one before, you’ll get some practice in before you head out. Don’t worry, it’s easier than it looks!
Once we got rolling, we cruised past some of Savannah’s most iconic landmarks, from historic squares to stunning mansions and centuries-old churches.
The small group size made for a more personal experience, and our guide, Gregg, was a storytelling master. We heard tales of Savannah’s early settlers, Civil War history, and even a few local legends along the way.
A couple of things to keep in mind—this tour is only for riders 16 and up, so younger kids will have to sit this one out. Also, dress for the weather and wear flat, closed-toe shoes for a safe and smooth ride.
With so many 5-star ratings, this tour is a hit for a reason! It’s informative, entertaining, and so much fun! So, if you want to experience Savannah in a totally unique way, we suggest hopping on a Segway and rolling through its history.
Check availability and book this Savannah Segway tour here before spots sell out!
8. Have a laugh on a hilarious trolley tour
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: 1:30 pm, 2 pm
- Highlights: Tour Savannah’s Historic District, visit famous squares and landmarks, and enjoy live comedy from two professional actors
- Inclusions: Professional (and outrageously funny!) guide, transport on the trolley
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 960+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Sightseeing is a whole lot more fun when you’re laughing the entire time. This comedy trolley tour takes the classic city tour and flips it on its head, with live performances, outrageous stories, and nonstop jokes that had us cracking up from start to finish.
The tour is run by two professional actors (Danni and Danny), who stay in character the whole time, turning Savannah’s history into a hilarious, high-energy show. You’ll still hit all the famous spots, like the historic squares and beautiful old homes, but don’t expect a typical history lesson. Think big laughs, quick improv, and some seriously clever twists on the city’s past.
One of the things we loved most was how interactive it felt. It’s not just sitting and listening, our guides pulled us into the fun with games, sketches, and wild bits of trivia that we were quoting for the rest of the day.
This is such a great pick if you want to mix a little comedy into your sightseeing. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or even solo, the vibe is super welcoming and easygoing. For a totally different (and way more fun) way to see Savannah, this trolley tour is a no-brainer.
Grab your spot on this popular tour here – you’re in for an amazing time!
9. Explore the city on a bicycle
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 9 am, 12:30 pm, 3 pm, 6 pm
- Highlights: Small group bike tour exploring Savannah, learn local history, visit landmarks like River Street, Forsyth Park, and City Market
- Inclusions: Guide, use of bicycle, bottled water, bike helmets
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 850+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Exploring Savannah on foot is great, but covering more ground on a bike is even better! This Savannah bike tour is the perfect way to take in the city’s charm while soaking up some sunshine and fresh air.
With a friendly local guide leading the way, we breezed through the oak-lined streets, past historic squares, and through hidden gems we never would have found on our own.
The route took us through Historic Downtown Savannah, hitting must-see spots like River Street and Forsyth Park, where Forrest Gump sat on a bench telling his life story. Riding on the 200-year-old cobblestone streets felt like stepping into the past—but without the sore feet from walking miles in the heat!
I loved how relaxed and perfectly paced the ride was. We had plenty of time to admire the city’s iconic architecture and moss-draped trees while soaking in stories from our guide, Steve. From Civil War history to quirky local legends, he even pointed out some of the best spots to eat and grab a drink after the ride.
This tour was the ideal mix of fun, fitness, and history. Trust us—if you want to experience Savannah from a local’s view, this is the best way to do it!
Reserve your spot on this bicycle tour today!
10. Enjoy lunch on a riverboat cruise
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: 1 pm (not available Sundays)
- Highlights: See Savannah by riverboat cruise, learn about the city’s history and culture, feast on a southern-style buffet, admire views of historic River Street and Talmadge Memorial Bridge
- Inclusions: Fully narrated cruise, lunch, non-alcoholic beverages, cash bar
- Rating: 4.4 stars (check 260+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: No
- Price: Check price here!
Calling all food lovers! This riverboat lunch cruise blends incredible Southern food with stunning waterfront views, making it one of the most relaxing and delicious ways to experience Savannah.
Cruising along the river on the classic red-and-white paddlewheel boat was so much fun. It has a vintage charm and plenty of open-air deck space to take in the city’s waterfront. But the real highlight? The food!
Once we set sail, we grabbed plates and went straight for the buffet. Think crispy fried chicken, creamy mac and cheese, fresh Southern-style shrimp and grits. It was a dream meal for anyone who loves comfort food!
As we ate, we listened to stories about Savannah’s history, from its days as a major port to its role in the Civil War. We also learned the city is home to the first Girl Scout headquarters. Who knew that a troop meeting in a carriage house would spark an entire movement?
Between plates, we made our way to the outside deck to soak in Talmadge Memorial Bridge and River Street views. Watching the riverfront glide by was a unique perspective of Savannah. And let’s be honest—there’s just something about sipping sweet tea on a boat that makes you feel like you’re living your best life!
We absolutely loved this Savannah riverboat cruise! It’s a must for food lovers and anyone who wants a relaxing way to see the city.
Book your spot on this delicious lunch cruise here!
Where to Stay in Savannah, Georgia
Now that you know the best things to do in Savannah, it’s time to find the perfect place to stay! If you want charming architecture, walkable streets, and easy access to the tours and attractions we mentioned above, the Historic District is the best area to stay.
Whether you’re looking for a luxury bed and breakfast or a budget-friendly hotel, I’ve rounded up the best places to stay in Savannah to help you make the most of your trip!
Luxury – $$$
For a luxury stay in Savannah, Bellwether House is a top pick. Set in a restored 19th-century mansion, this 5-star boutique hotel offers beautifully designed rooms, gourmet breakfast, and afternoon tea. It’s also located right in the Historic District, so you’ll be within walking distance of Savannah’s best squares, shops, and restaurants. Plus, they even do a nightly champagne sabering—how cool is that?
Prices usually average between $400 – $500 USD per night. You can check prices and book this stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
The Holiday Inn Express Savannah Historic District is a great choice for a comfortable and convenient stay in Savannah! It’s right in the heart of the action, just steps from River Street, with spacious rooms and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy the rooftop pool, complimentary breakfast, fitness center, and on-site spa—perfect for refueling after a day of exploring!
Prices usually start around $250 USD per night depending on the time of year. You can book this stay on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For an affordable stay in Savannah, the Best Western Central Inn is a great budget option. Located a short drive from the Historic District, it offers clean and spacious rooms, free parking, free WIFI, and a complimentary breakfast to start your day. Plus, there’s an outdoor pool—perfect for cooling off in Savannah’s heat!
Rooms start as low as $100 USD per night and you can reserve your room here on Booking.com!
For more options, see all of the hotels in Savannah here!
Related Read: For a closer look at Savannah’s top areas to stay and hotels, check out our Where to Stay guide here!
Renting a Car in the USA
The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the USA
- Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
- Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
- Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Well there you have it, all of the best things to do in Savannah, Georgia in one handy list! Whether you’re here for the history, the food, or just the laid-back Southern charm, you’re sure to have fun here. Hopefully, our guide helped you find some perfect adventures for your trip!
If this guide was helpful, have a look through all our other USA blogs. We’ve traveled all over the country and have everything from tour recommendations to detailed itineraries to help you out!
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