Here’s a suggested itinerary for both a 3-day and 5-day trip to Savannah, Georgia. These plans cover the city’s top attractions, historical landmarks, local experiences, and hidden gems, allowing you to explore Savannah at a relaxed and enjoyable pace.
3-Day Savannah Itinerary:
Day 1: Historic Savannah & River Street
Morning:
- Start your day with a historic walking tour of the Savannah Historic District. Explore the beautiful Forsyth Park, where you can see the iconic Forsyth Fountain.
- Walk through Chippewa Square (famous for the Forrest Gump bench scene) and other charming squares like Johnson Square.
Lunch:
Afternoon:
Visit the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist and admire its stunning architecture.
Head to River Street, the bustling waterfront street, where you can shop for souvenirs, enjoy local crafts, and sample pralines from Savannah’s Candy Kitchen.
Evening:
Take a riverboat cruise for a scenic view of the city from the Savannah River.
End the evening with a ghost tour, as Savannah is one of the most haunted cities in the U.S. Choose a walking tour or a haunted trolley tour.
Day 2: Gardens, History, and Art
Morning:
- Visit the Bonaventure Cemetery, made famous by the book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, for a peaceful stroll among its famous graves and statues.
- Explore Wormsloe Historic Site, with its picturesque avenue of oak trees and a glimpse of colonial Savannah.
Lunch:
Afternoon:
Head to Telfair Museums, including the Jepson Center for the Arts and the Owens-Thomas House, to enjoy art exhibitions and explore the history of the area.
Visit the Savannah History Museum, located in the Telfair Academy building, to learn about the city’s storied past.
Evening:
Enjoy dinner at The Olde Pink House, one of Savannah’s most iconic restaurants.
If you're in the mood for evening entertainment, check out a show at the Savannah Theatre or grab a drink at one of the city’s charming rooftop bars.
Day 3: Tybee Island & Relaxation
Morning:
- Take a short drive to Tybee Island, about 20 minutes outside of Savannah. Spend the morning at Tybee Beach, relaxing or walking along the shoreline.
- Visit the Tybee Island Lighthouse and Museum for panoramic views of the coast.
Lunch:
Afternoon:
Spend the afternoon exploring the quieter parts of Tybee Island, like North Beach or Back River Beach.
If time allows, take a dolphin-watching tour or rent a bike to ride around the island.
Evening:
Return to Savannah and enjoy a leisurely dinner at The Grey, a trendy spot housed in a restored 1938 Greyhound bus station.
End the trip with a casual evening stroll along the Savannah Riverwalk.
5-Day Savannah Itinerary:
Day 1: Explore the Historic District
- Morning: Start with a historic walking tour and Forsyth Park visit.
- Lunch: Have lunch at The Collins Quarter.
- Afternoon: Visit River Street and The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist.
- Evening: Riverboat cruise and a ghost tour.
Day 2: Gardens and Museums
- Morning: Visit Bonaventure Cemetery and Wormsloe Historic Site.
- Lunch: Enjoy Southern comfort food at Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room.
- Afternoon: Explore Telfair Museums and the Savannah History Museum.
- Evening: Dinner at The Olde Pink House, followed by a show at the Savannah Theatre.
Day 3: Tybee Island Adventure
- Morning: Head to Tybee Island, visit the Tybee Island Lighthouse.
- Lunch: Enjoy seafood at The Crab Shack.
- Afternoon: Spend the afternoon on the beach or take a dolphin-watching tour.
- Evening: Return to Savannah for dinner at The Grey.
Day 4: Nature and Local Culture
- Morning: Visit Skidaway Island State Park for a morning of nature trails and wildlife watching.
- Lunch: Head back to Savannah for lunch at Treylor Park.
- Afternoon: Explore the Pin Point Heritage Museum to learn about Gullah culture or take a bike tour around the city.
- Evening: Dinner at Belford’s Savannah and enjoy the nightlife or take a walk along the Savannah Riverwalk.
Day 5: Day Trips and Relaxation
- Morning: Take a day trip to Daufuskie Island, a beautiful and quiet island offering historical tours and relaxing beach time.
- Lunch: Pack a lunch or enjoy a meal on Daufuskie Island.
- Afternoon: Continue exploring Daufuskie Island and relax by the beach or explore its historical landmarks.
- Evening: Return to Savannah for a farewell dinner at The Riverhouse Seafood and enjoy a quiet evening at one of the local cafes or bars.
Conclusion:
- 3 Days: This is perfect for first-time visitors who want to experience the key highlights of Savannah, such as the Historic District, River Street, Bonaventure Cemetery, and Tybee Island.
- 5 Days: Ideal for those who want to immerse themselves fully in the city, with extra time for nature, cultural experiences, and day trips to nearby islands.
Both itineraries ensure a blend of relaxation, exploration, and cultural experiences, offering a deep dive into what makes Savannah so special.