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Dreaming of a trip to Savannah but overwhelmed by all the options? We’ve got you covered!
Savannah instantly draws you in with its moss-draped oaks, cobblestone streets, historic homes, and food that hits the soul. But with so much to do (and taste), planning the perfect itinerary can feel a little daunting.
After multiple visits (and plenty of research in between), we’ve put together this 3-day Savannah itinerary to help you experience the very best of the city, without feeling rushed. From ghost tours and grand mansions to fried green tomatoes and beachside dolphin cruises, it’s all here. So lace up your walking shoes, bring your appetite, and get ready to fall in love with Georgia’s most charming city.
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this walking food tour of Savannah! We were eager to try authentic Southern food and loved that we got to learn about Savannah along the way.
Check out the 2,400+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Day 1
Breakfast – Toast! All Day
Start your Savannah adventure with breakfast at Toast! All Day – a cozy spot known for Southern comfort food with a twist. This laid-back café opens at 8:00 am and serves up hearty classics like shrimp and grits, fried green tomato Benedicts, and fluffy buttermilk pancakes.
It’s the kind of place where the coffee flows freely and the portions make sure you won’t be hungry again until well after lunchtime. We recommend arriving shortly after opening to give yourself plenty of time before the morning walking tour kicks off at 10:00 am (details below!). And it’s just a 5-minute stroll to Oglethorpe Square, where your tour begins.
If you finish up breakfast a bit early, take a leisurely wander around the square itself. Framed by moss-draped oaks and historic homes, it’s a peaceful place to soak in Savannah’s charm before diving into its stories.
Morning – Learn about Historic Savannah on a walking tour
Next up: dive into Savannah’s rich past with this guided historic walking tour through the heart of the Historic District. We recommend booking the 9:30 am option to make the most of your morning while the streets are still quiet and shady.
The tour kicks off right in Oglethorpe Square and immediately pulls you into Savannah’s story. As we wandered down cobblestone alleys and past beautifully preserved Civil War-era homes, it felt like stepping onto a movie set—except everything was real. We passed by some of Savannah’s most iconic landmarks, including the stunning Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, whose soaring spires are even more impressive up close.
One unexpected highlight? Stopping by the original Girl Scout Headquarters. Naturally, it sparked a very serious (and very entertaining) debate about the best Girl Scout cookie flavor. Thin Mints still win in my book!
The route continues south toward Forsyth Park, where the postcard-perfect fountain (yes, the one from Forrest Gump!) makes for a great photo stop. The tour wraps up along River Street, where old cotton warehouses have been transformed into lively shops, restaurants, and waterfront bars. It’s the perfect place to circle back to later for lunch or drinks!
Beyond the historic facts, what really made this tour special was our guide’s insider tips. We left with a full list of hidden gems to check out—from tucked-away cocktail bars to the best shrimp and grits in town. For a proper introduction to Savannah, this tour is the ideal way to do it!
Read 2,500+ rave reviews and reserve this historical walking tour here!
Lunch – City Market
After the tour, make your way over to City Market for lunch and a bit of laid-back exploring. Just an 11-minute walk from the end of River Street, this four-block open-air market is packed with charm—and more importantly, tons of great food options.
There’s no need to commit to a specific restaurant ahead of time. One of the best parts about City Market is wandering through at your own pace, scoping out menus, and grabbing a bite wherever smells (or samples) win you over. Whether you’re craving southern staples like po’boys and fried chicken or want something lighter like a salad or sandwich, there’s a little bit of everything here.
While you’re at it, take time to browse the local shops and art galleries that line the area. The vibe is relaxed and artsy, with live musicians often playing under the shade of the trees. It’s a great place to soak up the local energy before you head into your afternoon plans.
Afternoon – Visit the Wormsloe Historic Site
In the afternoon, make your way to Wormsloe Historic Site—home to Savannah’s most iconic photo op. The breathtaking “alley of oaks,” lined with over 400 moss-draped live oaks, looks like something straight out of a Southern fairytale and perfectly captures that timeless Savannah charm.
Once you’ve soaked in the scenery (and snapped about a hundred photos), join one of the 45-minute guided walking tours. The site itself is a former plantation, and while the history is complex, the guides do a fantastic job of sharing the stories and context in an informative, respectful way.
You’ll need about 1.5–2 hours here, including time to explore on your own. Entrance is $12 USD per person, and the site is open daily from 9:00 am to 4:45 pm.
If you’ve got a rental car, it’s a quick and easy 15–20 minute drive from downtown Savannah. Or hop on the Line 31 bus, and you’ll be there in about 45 minutes to an hour—just be sure to check return times in advance.
Mid-afternoon – American Prohibition Museum
On your way back into town, make a stop at the American Prohibition Museum—one of Savannah’s most unique (and unexpectedly fun) attractions. Located in the City Market area, this museum brings the Prohibition era to life with immersive exhibits, vintage cars, and even costumed interpreters who tell the story of America’s “dry” years in a way that’s anything but dry.
It’s a 15-minute drive from Wormsloe, and since the museum is open until 6:00 pm, you’ll have plenty of time to explore without rushing. Plan to spend about an hour here walking through the interactive displays and learning about the rise of speakeasies, bootlegging, and the unexpected role Savannah played in the movement.
The highlight? The museum ends with a visit to a hidden-in-plain-sight speakeasy where you can order a drink—legally this time! It’s a fun way to cap off your afternoon before transitioning into a relaxing evening.
Dinner – Churchill’s
Wrap up your first day with dinner at Churchill’s, a cozy gastropub just a 5-minute walk from the Prohibition Museum. The menu has a British-American flair, with options like fish and chips, short rib ravioli, and truffle fries, and everything we ordered was flavorful and satisfying after a full day of exploring.
What really sets Churchill’s apart is its rooftop patio. Grab a seat upstairs for views of the Savannah River as the sun starts to dip, casting golden light over the city. It’s the kind of place where you can linger with a drink and soak in the evening atmosphere without feeling rushed.
You’re just a 10-minute walk from the meeting point for tonight’s ghost tour. So there’s no need to race through dinner—just enjoy the view, the food, and a well-earned break before your next adventure.
Related Read: If you find yourself with extra time, check out our top 10 things to do in Savannah!
Evening – Experience Savannah’s spooky history on a ghost tour
After dinner, it’s time to see Savannah’s spooky side with this walking ghost tour. The 8:00 or 8:30 pm option is ideal, offering two immersive hours that make for a memorable way to end your first night in Savannah.
This tour isn’t your typical jump-scare ghost walk. Instead, it blends professional storytelling, dark history, and just the right amount of spine-tingling atmosphere. Our guide, Julianna, was absolutely fantastic—her energy, passion for Savannah’s stories, and knack for bringing history to life made the evening unforgettable.
With headsets provided, it was easy to hear every chilling detail as we made our way through Savannah’s hauntingly beautiful streets. Starting in Oglethorpe Square, we heard tales of murder at Wright Square, whispered secrets from below the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, and ghostly happenings near the Old Sorrel Weed House.
The tour also included stops by Chippewa Square, Madison Square, and finished at the eerie Colonial Park Cemetery. Even behind locked gates, the cemetery gave off an unmistakable chill—we weren’t the only ones snapping photos just in case something showed up later.
The combination of true stories, historic photos, and first-hand paranormal accounts made the experience both fun and surprisingly informative. Whether you’re a history lover or just enjoy a good ghost story, this tour hits the sweet spot!
This tour is likely to sell out – book it here and get FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go.
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.
Day 2
Breakfast – Maple Street Biscuit Company
Ease into your second day with a hearty Southern breakfast at Maple Street Biscuit Company. After a late night of ghost stories, there’s no need to rush this morning—this cozy spot opens at 7:00 am, but arriving by 9:30 gives you plenty of time to fuel up before your next activity.
Maple Street is all about comfort food done right. Think flaky biscuits piled high with fried chicken, sausage gravy, or maple syrup-drenched goodness. The portions are generous, the coffee is strong, and the vibe is casual and welcoming, exactly what we needed after a busy first day.
It’s also conveniently located just an 8-minute walk from the meeting point for your next tour, so you won’t need to stress about timing. Grab a seat, take it slow, and savor every bite—you’ve got another great day in Savannah ahead.
Midday – Visit Tybee Island on a dolphin cruise
Spend your second day soaking up the sun and sea breeze on this half-day trip to Tybee Island—Savannah’s favorite beach escape. We recommend booking the 11:00 am option, which gives you a relaxing start to the day and wraps up around 5:00 pm, just in time for dinner back in the city.
The tour starts downtown with a stress-free trolley or bus ride, skipping the parking hassle. Our guide made the ride feel like a bonus activity, sharing fun facts, historic tidbits, and local lore the whole drive. It was a great way to get to know the region before even hitting the beach.
Our first stop was The Crab Shack, a quirky, laid-back spot where “the elite eat in their bare feet.” The peel-and-eat shrimp was unforgettable, and while lunch isn’t included, it’s worth it. Plus, you’ll skip the usual long wait. Since we had a big breakfast, we only ate a little bit – just for the experience!
After lunch, it’s time to hit the water for a dolphin-watching cruise. Binoculars aren’t required, but they’ll definitely help you spot dolphins splashing in the distance. On the way, you’ll also cruise past Fort Pulaski and the Cockspur Lighthouse—a couple of scenic bonuses we didn’t expect.
Before heading back, take some time to relax on the beach or snap a photo at the Tybee Island Lighthouse. Climbing to the top costs $12 USD, but the panoramic views are absolutely incredible!
Reserve this tour now and pay later when you book in advance here!
Evening – Take a carriage ride through Historic Savannah
Cap off your second day with a classic carriage ride through Historic Savannah. Yes, it’s touristy, but it’s an experience that truly captures the city’s charm. There’s something magical about trotting through the moss-draped streets in the evening light, and this 40–50 minute ride offers a peaceful, story-filled way to wind down the day.
Tickets are $35 USD for adults, and tours depart hourly until 10:00 pm, giving you flexibility to plan around dinner. You can ride before you eat or enjoy a later tour once the city starts to quiet down. Either way, it’s a great way to see the historic district from a different perspective, especially after a day of exploring Tybee.
The knowledgeable guides share fun facts, hidden history, and architectural highlights as you glide past cobblestone streets and flickering gas lamps. It’s calm, charming, and one of those quintessential Savannah experiences that sticks with you long after the ride is over.
Dinner – Olympia Cafe
For dinner, head to Olympia Café for a change of pace with delicious Greek cuisine and riverfront views. After a day filled with seafood and Southern classics, this spot was a refreshing change, with flavorful gyros, fresh salads, and lemony grilled chicken that hit the spot without weighing us down.
It’s about a 13-minute walk from the end of the carriage ride, making it a relaxed way to transition into the evening. Set right on River Street, the atmosphere is casual but lively, with views of passing ships and cobblestone charm. Whether you’re craving a light bite or a full Mediterranean spread, there’s something here to satisfy.
Don’t leave the area without popping into River Street Sweets right next door. Their warm pecan pralines are legendary—crispy on the outside, buttery on the inside, and absolutely irresistible. We took a few extra home, but they didn’t last long!
Related Read: Traveling to Atlanta, too? Check out our 7 favorite things to do in Atlanta for a memorable trip!
Day 3
Breakfast – Grab on the go!
Keep breakfast light this morning—you’ve got a food tour ahead! Since you’ll be sampling plenty of local favorites starting at 11:00 am, this is a good time to grab something quick and easy on the go. Swing by a local café or bakery for a coffee and pastry, or even pick up something the night before to have ready in the morning.
Morning – Tour the Bonaventure Cemetery on a golf cart
Kick off your final day in Savannah with this guided golf cart tour through the stunning and storied Bonaventure Cemetery. We highly recommend booking the 9:00 to 10:00 am option so you have time to enjoy the full experience without feeling rushed.
You’ll meet your guide directly at the cemetery, where the Spanish moss-draped oaks and elaborate headstones set the stage for a morning unlike any other.
This small-group tour is the perfect way to explore Bonaventure’s sprawling grounds without the hassle of walking it all on foot. Riding in a comfortable golf cart, you’ll learn about Savannah’s past through the fascinating lives—and deaths—of the people buried here. Every grave seems to hold a story, and the tour does a great job of honoring both the famous names and the forgotten ones.
Our guide, Brandon, was upbeat, knowledgeable, and full of stories that brought history to life. He even made sure we had time to get all the photos we wanted and answered every question we had along the way.
From easy booking to thoughtful instructions sent the morning of the tour, the whole experience was smooth and memorable. Whether you’re a history buff or just love a good story, this tour is a must-do while you’re in Savannah.
Book this tour early here and start your day with unforgettable stories!
Mid-day – Taste your way around Savannah on a food tour
Dive into Savannah’s rich culinary scene on this food and culture tour that blends local flavor with fascinating history. We recommend booking the 11:00 am tour, which ends around 2:00 pm—perfect timing after your morning at Bonaventure. If you’re coming by bus, the 11:30 am option works well too (it’s about a 28-minute ride, or 11 minutes by car).
With a small group capped at 14 people, the experience feels personal, more like a foodie stroll with friends than a formal tour. Our guide was warm, knowledgeable, and easy to talk to. As we explored four of Savannah’s original squares and wandered along the waterfront, we sampled a rotating lineup of bites that celebrated both traditional Southern staples and modern Lowcountry flavors.
We tasted everything from shrimp and grits and fried green tomatoes to pork belly donut sliders (yes, really). A honey tasting at Savannah Bee Company was a sweet surprise, and the hot honey chicken and waffles at 22 Square were crispy, spicy, and just the right touch of sweet.
Each stop served up more than just food—it offered a flavorful look into Savannah’s past and present. Wear comfy shoes and bring your curiosity; this tour serves up surprises with every step.
Book early and come hungry—you won’t want to miss a single bite!
Afternoon – Telfair Museums and the Owens-Thomas House
After your food tour, walk just five minutes to spend the afternoon exploring some of Savannah’s most important cultural sites—the Telfair Museums and the Owens-Thomas House. Your $30 ticket grants access to all three Telfair Museums, so that gives you three full hours to explore before they close at 5:00 pm.
Start at the Telfair Academy, an elegant 19th-century mansion turned art museum, featuring American and European works in beautifully preserved period rooms. Then make your way to the Jepson Center, a striking contemporary space showcasing modern art, photography, and rotating exhibitions. It’s a nice contrast to the city’s historic backdrop.
Be sure to leave time for the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters, a powerful and thoughtfully presented look into antebellum life, architecture, and the lives of the enslaved people who lived there. The guided tour here adds important context and depth that you won’t want to miss.
Together, these sites offer a well-rounded cultural snapshot of Savannah’s art, architecture, and history—all just a short stroll from where your food tour ends.
Pre-dinner drinks – Repeal 33 Bar & Restaurant
It’s your last evening in Savannah, and after an afternoon of museum-hopping, it’s time to wind down with pre-dinner drinks at Repeal 33 Bar & Restaurant. Just a 6-minute walk from the museums, this upscale bar offers a moody, Prohibition-inspired vibe—perfect for easing into the night.
The menu leans creative, with expertly crafted drinks that are just as stylish as the space itself. Whether you’re into bourbon-forward classics or something light and botanical, you’ll find plenty to sip on here. If you’re still feeling full from the food tour, skip the starters and just enjoy the atmosphere—dim lighting, cozy leather booths, and bartenders who know their stuff.
Repeal 33 is a favorite with locals and visitors alike, and it feels like a fitting spot to toast your final night in Savannah!
Dinner – Crystal Beer Parlor
Head to Crystal Beer Parlor for your final dinner in Savannah—a local favorite that’s been serving up comfort food since the 1930s. It’s an easy 11-minute walk from Repeal 33 and offers a casual, welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for a relaxed last meal.
The menu leans classic Southern with a twist, featuring fried green tomatoes, hearty burgers, and crab stew that locals swear by. And as the name suggests, the drink list is extensive, with regional crafts and historic favorites on tap. We loved the vintage vibe of the place, filled with old-school charm and just the right amount of buzz.
After a couple of days filled with sightseeing and foodie adventures, Crystal Beer Parlor strikes that perfect final-night balance. It’s stress-free, delicious, and full of character!
Where to Stay in Savannah, Georgia
Now that you have a full three days 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 – $$$
For a luxury stay in Savannah, Bellwether House is a top pick. Set in a restored 19th-century mansion, this 5-star boutique hotel offers beautifully designed rooms, a gourmet breakfast, and afternoon tea. It’s also located right in the Historic District, so you’ll be within walking distance of Savannah’s best squares, shops, and restaurants. Plus, they even do a nightly champagne sabering—how cool is that?
Prices usually average between $400 and $500 USD per night. You can check prices and book this stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
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!
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!
We weren’t sure what to expect of Savannah, Georgia, but I am happy to report that it blew me away! With centuries-old history and architecture, stunning mossy trees, amazing food, and so many unique things to do, we were never bored here. Follow this itinerary and I’m sure you’ll feel the same way!
Before you go, check out our other USA blogs. We love sharing our favorite places and experiences with fellow travelers, so use these guides below to plan your next getaway:
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