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: Join a Bonaventure Cemetery Walking Tour led by a knowledgeable historian. This guided tour not only offers fascinating stories and insights into Savannah’s most famous oak tree-lined cemetery but also includes convenient transportation to and from historic district hotels—perfect for those without a car.
- 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: Enjoy upscale cocktails at The Alley Cat, then head to The Olde Pink House for a classic Southern dinner.
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 the Marriott’s African-themed lounge and visit their rooftop bar’s terrace for a stunning view of the Savannah River.
- Evening: Dine at Common House, where menu highlights include shrimp and grits and the smoked Old Fashioned.
Day 4: Food Adventures
- Morning: Go on the Culinary & Culture Walking Food Tour to sample Savannah’s culinary delights while learning interesting tidbits about Savannah’s history. Highlights of the tour included the sausage roll at Little Crown Pie Society, the she-crab soup at Rhett, and the honey comb coated green apple slices at Savannah Bee Company.
- Afternoon: Browse the boutiques along West Broughton Street for unique finds.
- Evening: Enjoy a memorable dinner at The Grey, a celebrated restaurant. Highlights include the “day boat catch,” Caesar salad, and the milk punch cocktail.
Day 5: A Rainy Farewell
- Morning: After checking out of the Airbnb, take a stroll through more of Savannah’s charming squares.
- Brunch: Indulge at Husk, known for its inventive take on Southern cuisine. Don’t skip 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 Departure:
- Pick up your stashed luggage from the Bounce location in the historic downtown area close to where you will end up before heading to the airport.
- Grab an Uber to the airport.
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!
