Looking for a weekend getaway in Savannah, GA? Here’s how to explore Georgia’s most charming coastal city, from food and history to beaches and budget-friendly tips.
This trip was sponsored by Explore Georgia, but all thoughts expressed in this blog are my own honest opinions. This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through those links, we’ll receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure for more information.
Savannah surprised me in the best way.
It was my first time in Georgia’s oldest city, but after visiting New Orleans and Houston earlier this year, something about it felt familiar.
A little slower, a little softer, but just as soulful.
It’s creative and inspiring, full of history and heart, and so easy to explore, even on a budget.
If you’re wondering whether Savannah is worth a long weekend: yes.
Whether you’re into food, art, nature, or just strolling through storybook squares, this 3-day itinerary is designed to help you experience the best of Savannah while keeping things budget-conscious and low-stress.
Day 1: Historic Savannah & Rooftop Views
We landed at Savannah Hilton Head International Airport and picked up a rental car.
You don’t need a car if you’re staying in the Historic District since it’s very walkable, but we had plans to visit Tybee Island on Day 2, so renting made sense for us.
Brunch at Shuk
We started with brunch at Shuk, a Mediterranean café with bold, bright flavors and a cozy vibe.
No reservation needed, and the prices were quite reasonable.
I ordered the falafel pita topped with hummus and pickled cabbage with a honey lavender latte.
My husband ordered the lamb kebab over rice, and everything came out really delicious.
How much to budget: We spent ~$48 USD on brunch for two.
Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour
This is a great way to get your bearings, and honestly, way more fun than I expected.
You can hop off at any of the 15 stops, including parks, museums, and squares.
We stayed on for most of the loop to learn about the city, then hopped off when something caught our eye.
The narrated ride lasts a total of 90 minutes.
How much to budget: Tickets are ~$40 USD per person for an unlimited day pass.
Leopold’s Ice Cream
Yes, the line can appear to be long, but it moves. It’s completely worth it.
This iconic Savannah staple has been scooping since 1919 and still feels like a time capsule.
The blueberry cheesecake flavor was the standout for me. I stopped in every day just to get another scoop.
Their ice cream is just the right amount sweet and creamy, and they have vegan and sorbet options too.
How much to budget: Single scoop is ~$7 USD
Savannah African Art Museum
Admission is free, and it ended up being one of the most memorable parts of our trip.
We joined both the West Africa and Central Africa guided tours.
The guides (mostly SCAD [Savannah College of Art and Design] students) weren’t just reciting facts, but were passionate, deeply informed, and in some cases had even helped curate the spaces themselves.
We learned how different tribes across the continent used similar symbols or objects to express completely different meanings, depending on their cultural or spiritual context.
From intricate masks to ceremonial tools and everyday items, it felt like we were getting a real window into distinct cultures across Africa.
It challenged assumptions, sparked conversations, and was a powerful reminder of just how diverse and rich African history is, and how much there is still to learn.
How much to budget: Free, but donations are welcome.
Check-In at The Inn on West Liberty
This historic bed and breakfast, built in 1871, is right in the heart of the Historic District and has just nine rooms, each one named after a Savannah square.
We stayed in the Johnson Square Room, which was elegant, cozy, and full of thoughtful touches.
There’s a complimentary wine and snacks hour from 5–6 PM that makes you feel like you’re being welcomed into someone’s home, someone who happens to have excellent taste.
Each morning starts with a homemade breakfast, often with soft classical music playing through the in-room speakers (you can control the volume on the wall).
It honestly felt like waking up in The Princess Diaries.
There’s free WiFi, a beautiful garden patio, and you can enjoy breakfast outside, in your room, or in the indoor dining areas.
We absolutely loved the calm, classy vibe.
How much to budget: Check for availability and current rates
Rooftop Drinks at The Lost Square
Located on top of the Alida Hotel, this rooftop bar gives you skyline and river views in a relaxed setting.
It’s also right by the famous River Street, which makes it a perfect pre-dinner stop.
I ordered the Lost Mule (Tito’s Vodka, Elderflower, Lime, Ginger Beer), and a portion of the sale goes to cancer research, so you can feel good while sipping something crisp and refreshing.
How much to budget: Drinks are ~$16 USD each
Dinner at Brochu’s Family Tradition
Brochu’s was one of our favorite meals. The laid-back vibe kept it casual, but memorable.
This place serves bold, satisfying food that leans into Southern roots with creativity.
It’s the kind of meal that makes you pause between bites.
The fried chicken and seafood are standouts.
We ordered the half chicken, dirty rice, shrimp skewers, and banana pudding.
How much to budget: Dinner for two ~$109 USD
Day 2: Tybee Island & Savannah River Cruise
Breakfast at Mirabelle’s
Across from the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, this photogenic café is known for their Liège waffles.
We tried the peach cobbler waffles, grilled cheese, and the hibiscus tea.
All hits, no misses.
It’s charming inside, but you can also take yours to-go and sit outside under the Spanish moss in the nearby squares.
How much to budget: Breakfast for two ~$26 USD
Tybee Island Day Trip
A 30-minute drive from downtown Savannah, Tybee is very easy to reach.
It has a slower pace, is clean, and family-friendly.
We climbed the Tybee Lighthouse for panoramic views, then spent the rest of the morning on North Beach, soaking up the sun.
How much to budget: Tybee Lighthouse $14 USD per person
Lunch at Sea Wolf Tybee
This restaurant was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, and you’ll see why.
It has a cool, eclectic vibe, glizzys on the menu and all over the walls.
So, of course, my husband couldn’t resist and ordered one.
They also have some excellent vegetarian options like the creamy mushroom toast with cranberries that I had.
It’s casual but creative, and their seasonal menu was a highlight of our Tybee visit.
How much to budget: Lunch for two ~$44 USD
Rest + Refresh at the Hotel
After the beach and lighthouse, we took a couple of hours to cool off, rehydrate, and recharge.
For reference, we visited in mid-July, and it was sunny, humid, and 99°F
A refresh is definitely essential to your Savannah itinerary.
Savannah Riverboat Cruise
We booked the Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise, which boards at 6 pm and sails at 7 pm.
It seems like it would be touristy, but let me tell you, this was one of my favorite things I did in Savannah (and not just because they let me drive the boat).
The live entertainment, dinner buffet, and nighttime city views from the water made it so much fun.
Also, the DJ was taking over for the ’99s and 2000s on the top deck.
If you’re celebrating something or want to have a fun evening with a beautiful sunset, this is exactly the thing to add to your itinerary.
How much to budget: Tickets are ~$95 USD per person
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Day 3: City Market & Historic Homes
Coffee from The Coffee Fox Roasting Co.
Locally roasted, strong, and smooth. Great little café to fuel up before a morning of exploring.
I started the morning with a nitro cold brew and a kolache, which reminded me of an everything bagel, but stuffed with cream cheese and shaped like a bun.
Easy to grab and go.
How much to budget?: ~$4 USD per cup of coffee
Stroll Through City Market & River Street
Shops, local art, and cobblestone streets right along the Savannah River.
This is a great place to pick up a small souvenir or just people-watch for a while.
You can also take the free Savannah Belles Ferry across the river.
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Visit the American Prohibition Museum
Way more fun than it sounds.
It’s full of stories, life-like displays, and a little speakeasy at the end if you’re in the mood for a midday cocktail or mocktail.
If you’re not usually a museum person, this might change your mind.
The exhibits are fascinating, and the hidden speakeasy was such a fun touch.
You need a “password” to access the bar, and the bartender was both friendly and knowledgeable.
How much to budget: ~$17 USD per person. CHEW TIP: There are discount coupons available at Leopold’s to get $5 USD off your visit to the Prohibition Museum.
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Lunch at Kayak Kafé
Laid-back and fresh, Kayak Kafé is a great stop for something flavorful that won’t weigh you down.
They offer plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options, along with refreshing smoothies and bold flavors across the menu.
I had the Vegan Taco Bowl which has quinoa topped with housemade walnut “chorizo”, fresh corn salsa, pico de gallo, guacamole, black beans, and crispy corn tortilla strips on a bed of mixed greens. I loved every bite.
My husband went for the spicy jerk chicken tacos with melted jack cheese and fresh pineapple salsa.
We both added their Mexican salsa on the side, and it truly took everything up a notch.
Highly recommend.
We stopped in the location on Broughton Street, but there’s more than one to try out.
How much to budget: Lunch for two ~$46 USD
Afternoon Shopping + Exploring Historic Squares
Forsyth Park is the oldest and largest public park in the city.
There are live oak trees draped in Spanish moss, locals walking their dogs or jogging the perimeter loop, and kids swinging on the swings.
It feels peaceful but never boring.
The famous white fountain at the north end is probably the most photographed feature in Savannah (currently under construction).
But what makes the park even better is how lived-in it feels.
You’ll find farmers markets (usually Saturday mornings), artists selling their work, people reading on benches, and a great mix of both visitors and locals.
Peek into Historic Homes
The Andrew Low House is beautifully preserved and once home to Juliette Low, the founder of the Girl Scouts.
The Green-Meldrim House was General Sherman’s headquarters during the Civil War and has a rich backstory.
A freed African American woman who worked for the Green family became the first and only woman to publish personal accounts of the Civil War, which is a powerful reminder that history isn’t just names and dates.
You can wander through the Design District for vintage finds, then make your way toward Starland District, where colorful murals and independent shops make the perfect creative cap to your weekend.
How much to budget: Tours through the historic homes are ~$15 USD per person
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FAQs
When is the best time to visit Savannah, Georgia?
The best time to visit Savannah is in March and April, when the weather is mild. Fall (October–November) is another great option with fewer crowds and comfortable temps.
How many days do I need in Savannah, Georgia?
Three days is a perfect amount of time to explore Savannah at a relaxed pace. Enough for historical sights, local food, a day trip to Tybee Island, and time to just wander the squares.
What is the number one thing to do in Savannah, Georgia?
It depends on your vibe, but most visitors agree: just walking the Historic District is the must-do. The live oaks, squares, and preserved architecture give the city its iconic charm. For something structured, the Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour is a great intro.
Is Tybee Island worth visiting?
Yes, especially if you want to add a beach day to your trip. It’s only a 30-minute drive from downtown Savannah, and has a laid-back vibe, scenic lighthouse, and family-friendly beaches. Just pack sunscreen and plenty of water in the warmer months.
Final Thoughts
Savannah truly won me over.
It’s neighborly, soulful, and creative, but also approachable, walkable, and surprisingly budget-friendly for a city with this much personality.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, your partner, or your family, Savannah makes it easy to slow down without missing out.
There’s history here, but also fresh energy in the art, the food, the people. And that balance is what makes it so worth the trip.
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Your Savannah tour was amazing, every highlighted moment. Savannah is definitely on my radar for next year.
Such an informative and thorough piece. Thank you
Thank you so much! Savannah really surprised me in the best way. I’m so glad you found the article helpful. Hope you get to experience it for yourself next year! 🙂