A 5-Day Itinerary
Savannah, Georgia, is a city that effortlessly blends Southern charm, history, and modern indulgence. This five-day itinerary details what I did on my trip while giving you the flexibility to modify it and make it your own!
Day 1: Arrival and Local Flavor
Arrival: Fly into Savannah/Hilton Head Airport in the morning. The small, efficient airport makes arriving easy.
Midday: Take a guided tour of Bonaventure Cemetery, Savannah’s most iconic oak-draped burial ground. A knowledgeable guide will bring the grounds to life with captivating stories, historical context, and a closer look at the most notable monuments you might otherwise miss.
Evening: Head to the Crystal Beer Palace for a casual dinner. Enjoy their extensive craft beer menu, scratch-made onion rings, and delicious burgers while mingling with locals and soaking in the friendly atmosphere.
Day 2: Historic Gems and Local Favorites
Morning: Start your day with breakfast and coffee while people watching on the patio at Clary’s Cafe.
Midday: Stroll through Forsyth Park, then walk along Jones Street, considered one of the most beautiful streets in Savannah. Stop by Books on Bay for vintage finds.
Afternoon: Continue your self-guided walking tour of Savannah, visiting landmarks like:
- The exterior of the stunning Mickve Israel Synagogue.
- The interior of St. Michael’s Basilica (though the exterior may be under scaffolding).
Evening: Start with upscale cocktails in the retro-chic setting of The Alley Cat, then make your way to The Olde Pink House—an elegant 18th-century mansion steeped in history—for a classic Southern dinner. (Pro tip: don’t skip the warm, buttery biscuits—they’re legendary!)
Day 3: Prohibition, Riverfront, and Rooftop Views
Morning: Tour the American Prohibition Museum, complete with a cocktail experience in their speakeasy.
Midday: Explore the historic Riverfront, strike a pose by the Waving Girl Statue, and take in the charming cobblestone streets and gaze down the historic “Stone Stairs of Death”.
Afternoon:
- Check out the incredible display of objects and artifacts in the lobby of the Marriott Savannah Riverfront lobby. It’s like a mini Natural History museum, with huge geodes, gemstones, fossils, an Ice Age bear, a prehistoric tortoise shell and a 135-foot chrome dinosaur.
- Sip cocktails in Marriott’s African-themed lounge Baobab, or visit their rooftop bar’s terrace for a stunning view of the Savannah River.
Evening: Dine at Common Restaurant – Set in a historic building, this upscale spot serves refined Southern cuisine made with fresh, local ingredients. (Pro tip: try the shrimp and grits and the smoked Old Fashioned)
Day 4: Food Adventures
Morning: Kick off your day with a guided foodie walking tour that blends Savannah’s rich culinary scene with its history. On the tour I took, standout bites included the savory sausage roll at Little Crown Pie Society, the velvety she-crab soup at Rhett, and the decadent pork belly donut sliders at Common Restaurant.
Afternoon: Browse the boutiques along West Broughton Street for unique finds.
Evening: Enjoy a memorable dinner at The Grey restaurant, a restored 1938 art deco Greyhound bus terminal. Highlights include the “day boat catch,” Caesar salad, and the milk punch cocktail.
Day 5: A Stroll, Brunch and Departure
Morning: After checking out of the Airbnb or hotel, you can stash your luggage at a Bounce location in the historic downtown area, then take a stroll through more of Savannah’s charming squares.
Brunch: Indulge at Husk, known for its inventive take on Southern cuisine. (Pro Tip: Try the candied bacon—it’s a game-changer!) And if there were an award for “Most Beautiful Restaurant Bathroom,” Husk would take the crown.
Luggage and Late Afternoon Departure: Pick up your stashed luggage and grab an Uber to the airport for your flight home.
The Charm of Savannah’s Squares
One of the most memorable aspects of Savannah is its historic squares. These beautifully landscaped spaces are steeped in history and provide a perfect backdrop for slowing down and taking in the city’s charm. Some of my favorites included:
- Franklin Square: Home of the First African Baptist Church (which served as a stop in the underground railroad), Haitian Monument (featuring 1779 Siege of Savannah and the boy who would become the King of Haiti), in Prohibition Museum and City Market’s lively atmosphere.
- Chippewa Square: Known for its proud lions guarding Oglethorpe and its connection to an iconic scene in the Forrest Gump movie.
- Monterey Square: Featuring the striking Pulaski monument. It is also a filming site for Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.
- Wright Square: Distinguished by its imposing pink granite columns and a globe supported by four winged Atlantes.
- Lafayette Square: Highlighted by an antique greenish cast-iron fountain and the nearby Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist.
Savannah’s unique blend of history, architecture, and culinary experiences makes it an unforgettable destination. Whether you follow this itinerary exactly or use it as inspiration, you’re sure to fall in love with this charming Southern city. Happy travels!
🧭 Trip Planning Resources for Savannah
Planning your own Savannah getaway? Here are some helpful resources, guides, and local websites to help you make the most of your trip:
📍 Official Tourism & Guides
- Visit Savannah – The city’s official tourism site, with events, attractions, and neighborhood guides.
- Visit Savannah offers a detailed PDF map of the Historic District, highlighting key landmarks, squares, and streets.
- Official Savannah Guide – A great resource for detailed information on the city’s historic squares, parks, monuments, and antebellum homes. Ideal for planning self-guided walks or learning more about Savannah’s iconic landmarks.
🗺️ Recommend Tours
- Bonaventure Cemetery Walking Tour – A 2-hour guided walking tour of Bonaventure Cemetery, led by a knowledgeable historian who brings its storied past to life. Includes round-trip transportation from the Historic District—an ideal option if you’re visiting without a car.
- Culinary & Culture Walking Food Tour – A half-day guided walking tour that blends Savannah’s rich history with its culinary scene—enjoy tastings of local specialties at four different stops while learning about the city’s past through its flavors and stories.
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