Need Itinerary Advice for 3.5-Day Trip to Savannah

Question

Hi,

I’m planning a 3.5-day (3-night) trip to Savannah and Charleston and would love your suggestions on how to split my time between the two cities. I will be arriving in Savannah in the morning and departing from Charleston by plane at 6 PM on the last day.

How should I divide my time between these two cities, and where should I spend the two nights?

Thanks in advance for your help!

Answer

Sounds like a fantastic trip! Both Savannah and Charleston offer a wealth of history, charm, and southern hospitality, so you’ll have an amazing time exploring both cities. Given that you have 3.5 days, I recommend splitting your time between the two cities in a way that allows you to enjoy both without feeling too rushed. Here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Savannah (Morning)

Start your day in Savannah as soon as you arrive! Since you'll be coming in the morning, you’ll have most of the day to explore. Savannah’s historic district is compact and walkable, so it’s easy to dive right in. Some must-sees for your first day include:

Forsyth Park – A beautiful spot to begin your visit, with the iconic Forsyth Fountain and lovely walking paths.
River Street – Head to the Savannah Riverfront for a leisurely walk and check out the unique shops and cafes along the cobblestone street.
City Market – A bustling spot with local artists, shops, and restaurants.
Historic Squares – Savannah is known for its beautiful squares, each with its own story. Be sure to check out the famous ones, like Chippewa Square (home of the Forrest Gump bench!)

For lunch, you can grab a bite at one of Savannah’s iconic spots, such as Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room for traditional Southern comfort food or The Collins Quarter for a more modern take on brunch/lunch.

Evening: Explore Savannah’s nightlife or take a riverboat cruise to get a scenic view of the city from the river. Finish your night with a visit to one of the city's charming rooftop bars, like The Rooftop at The Ivey for great views and drinks.

Day 2: Full Day in Savannah

On your second day, spend more time exploring Savannah's charming neighborhoods, history, and hidden gems. Consider these options:

Savannah Historic Homes Tour – Take a guided tour of the stunning historic homes, such as the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace or the Green-Meldrim House.
Bonaventure Cemetery – If you're interested in a unique and peaceful experience, visit this famous cemetery, known for its beautiful oak trees and hauntingly beautiful atmosphere.
Cathedral of St. John the Baptist – A stunning example of Savannah's architecture and history, this cathedral is well worth a visit.
Dinner: For a special dinner, I recommend The Grey or Alligator Soul for an upscale dining experience or Leopold’s Ice Cream for dessert!

Day 3: Morning in Savannah, Afternoon Drive to Charleston

On Day 3, spend the morning in Savannah. Consider visiting the Oatland Island Wildlife Center or explore some additional historic homes. If you have time, take a walk along Abercorn Street to see more of Savannah’s charming residential areas.

In the afternoon, drive to Charleston (about a 2-hour drive). Once you arrive, check into your hotel and begin your Charleston adventure with a leisurely walk around the Historic District.

Day 4: Full Day in Charleston

Spend your last day in Charleston visiting some of the city’s top attractions:

The Battery and White Point Garden – Stroll along this picturesque waterfront promenade and enjoy views of historic mansions and cannons.
King Street – Charleston’s main shopping street, with a mix of boutiques, antique stores, and restaurants. It’s great for a leisurely walk.
Charleston City Market – Another wonderful market where you can shop for local arts and crafts, or enjoy a meal.
Waterfront Park – Relax by the water and enjoy the famous pineapple fountain.

For lunch or dinner, try Husk or FIG for an authentic Charleston dining experience, or head to Fleet Landing for seafood by the water.

Departure Day (Day 5):

On your last day, you’ll have some time in the morning to explore Charleston further before heading to the airport. If you have time, visit the Charleston Tea Garden for a tour, or check out Fort Sumter if you’re interested in history. Then, head to the airport for your 6 PM flight from Charleston.

Where to Stay:

For Savannah, stay in or near the Historic District to be close to all the main attractions. You can also consider staying near River Street or Forsyth Park for a more peaceful, scenic experience. For Charleston, staying in the Historic District is ideal as you’ll be walking distance to all the best attractions.

This itinerary allows you to enjoy the highlights of both cities without feeling rushed, while also giving you some flexibility to adjust depending on your interests. Have a wonderful trip!

Need Itinerary Advice for 3.5-Day Trip to Savannah

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