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5 days in Savannah

Five days in Savannah — see it properly: every headline sight, two day-trip options, and time to live like you're not on a schedule.

Savannah, GA, USA· Airport: SAV
Savannah — 5 days in | CheapoTrav travel guide

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Key facts

  • Savannah is highly walkable; exploring the Historic District's 22 squares and Forsyth Park on foot is essential.
  • Consider a guided history or ghost walking tour on your first day to orient yourself to the city's past and layout.
  • Dining reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, particularly on weekends or for larger groups.
  • A riverboat cruise on the Savannah River offers a different perspective of the city's waterfront and port activities.
  • Day trips to Tybee Island (beach) or Wormsloe Historic Site (oak avenue) offer distinct experiences outside the city center.
  • While SAV (Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport) is convenient, Jacksonville or Charleston airports are alternative options for some travelers.
  • Humidity can be significant, especially from late spring through early fall; pack accordingly and stay hydrated.

Five days in Savannah allows for a comprehensive exploration of its historic core and provides time for a relaxed day trip or deeper dives into local culture. This itinerary focuses on experiencing the city's unique blend of architectural beauty, culinary traditions, and a distinct Lowcountry atmosphere without feeling rushed. You'll find that Savannah, while compact, rewards slower exploration.

We recommend starting with the iconic squares and riverfront to get your bearings. Savannah's pedestrian-friendly layout makes walking the most rewarding way to experience its charm. Public transportation is limited, so plan on comfortable shoes or utilizing ride-shares for longer distances.

The culinary scene here extends beyond traditional Southern fare, offering fresh seafood and contemporary options. It's worth making dinner reservations, especially if your trip coincides with a weekend. Consider a hotel within the Historic District for convenient access to most attractions; this setup avoids the need to change accommodations during your stay.

While Savannah is generally welcoming, certain times of year, such as spring or fall, offer more temperate weather. Be mindful of summer humidity and potential afternoon thunderstorms. This plan is designed to offer a balanced perspective, allowing you to appreciate both the well-known sights and some of the local favorites. If you're looking to tailor this further, our travel agents are available to assist.

In this guide

Days 1–2: the essential Savannah

Cover the headline sights across two unhurried days instead of one sprint: day 1 for orientation and the biggest landmark, day 2 for museums, food, and a sunset viewpoint. Book anything with timed entry ahead. Our things-to-do guide for Savannah has the full list to pick from.

Day 3: day trip — Charleston

Charleston and Jacksonville are the classic day trips from Savannah. Leave early, keep the evening free back in Savannah. Rent a car for just this day if transit doesn't cover the route.

Day 4: neighborhoods and food

Skip the landmarks entirely: pick two neighborhoods, walk them slowly, and eat where the locals queue. This is the day travelers remember — the one that doesn't look like anyone else's itinerary. Our cheap-eats guide for Savannah is built for exactly this.

Day 5: your free day

Deliberately unplanned. Repeat whichever day you loved, take the second day trip (Jacksonville), or just claim a café table and let Savannah happen around you. Keep three hours of buffer before an evening flight.

Where to stay (one base or two)

Default to one central hotel for all five nights. Split 3+2 across two areas only if they're genuinely different — every hotel move costs about half a day. Our where-to-stay guide for Savannah compares the neighborhoods.

Cost breakdown

Plan $1,300–$2,300 per person on the ground for five days: hotel, food, activities, and local transit. Bundling flights + hotel + day-trip car through the phone desk typically saves 10–20% over booking separately, with $0 booking fee.

Frequently asked questions

What's the best way to get around Savannah for five days?
For most of your five days in Savannah, walking is the most effective and enjoyable way to navigate the Historic District. The city's grid layout and numerous squares make it very pedestrian-friendly. For destinations further afield, like Tybee Island or the Wormsloe Historic Site, renting a car for a day or using ride-share services is advisable. The DOT's free Downtowner electric shuttle can also be useful for covering slightly longer distances within the core area, connecting popular spots and parking garages.
Should I visit Tybee Island during my 5-day trip to Savannah?
Yes, visiting Tybee Island is a worthwhile addition to a five-day itinerary in Savannah, especially if you appreciate coastal environments. It offers a change of pace from the city's historic ambiance, with its beaches, lighthouse, and pier. Allocate at least half a day, or a full day if you plan to swim or relax extensively. It's approximately a 30-minute drive from downtown Savannah, making it an easy excursion for a change of scenery and fresh sea air.
Call (815) 991-4848 for phone-only fares
What specific historic sites should I prioritize in Savannah?
With five days, you have time for a good selection of historic sites. Definitely prioritize a visit to the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters or the Davenport House Museum for insights into 19th-century life and architecture. A stroll through Forsyth Park, anchored by its iconic fountain, is also essential. For a unique experience, consider Bonaventure Cemetery for its notable sculptures and scenic riverside views, reflecting a significant part of the city's past and artistic heritage.
What kind of day trips are available from Savannah besides Tybee Island?
Beyond Tybee Island, several day trips offer distinct experiences from Savannah. The Wormsloe Historic Site, known for its majestic oak-lined avenue, is a closer option for history and scenic beauty. For those interested in Gullah Geechee culture and coastal conservation, a visit to St. Simons Island or Jekyll Island, about 1.5 to 2 hours south, provides a different Lowcountry perspective. Charleston, SC, about a two-hour drive north, is also a popular choice for its similar historic charm, though it warrants a full day and an early start.
Call (815) 991-4848 for phone-only fares
Is Savannah expensive for a five-day trip?
The cost of a five-day trip to Savannah can vary depending on your choices. Accommodation in the Historic District can be moderately priced, especially if booked in advance, but there are also budget-friendly options outside the immediate core. Dining ranges from casual eateries to upscale restaurants; planning some meals at local cafes or markets can help manage costs. Many of the city's main attractions, like walking through the squares, are free, though historic house tours have admission fees. Consider a vacation rental for longer stays if you prefer to prepare some of your own meals.
What are some lesser-known spots in Savannah to explore on a five-day visit?
On a five-day trip, after covering the main attractions, explore some of Savannah's quieter areas. The Starland District, south of Forsyth Park, offers a vibrant, evolving scene with art galleries, independent shops, and cafes. Pin Point Heritage Museum provides a valuable perspective on Gullah Geechee culture outside the city center. Also, exploring the lesser-frequented squares like Troup Square or Washington Square can offer peaceful moments and unique architectural details that are often overlooked by first-time visitors focusing on the more prominent locations.
Call (815) 991-4848 for phone-only fares

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