Savannah/Charleston

Question

Hi,

I'm looking for a winter break trip Dec 22-30 and am considering both Savannah and Charleston with adult kids and a teen. How drivable are both in 1 trip? Is there enough to keep us busy for a week if we elect just Savannah? Does anyone have a great itinerary they'd like to share to start us off as we explore?

Answer

It sounds like a wonderful winter break! Both Savannah and Charleston are charming Southern cities, and they offer a unique mix of history, culture, and food. Here’s a guide to help you decide whether to visit both or just stick with one of the cities, along with an itinerary suggestion for a week-long stay in Savannah.

Drivability Between Savannah and Charleston:

The drive between Savannah and Charleston is around 108 miles (about 1.5 to 2 hours) depending on traffic. It’s a relatively easy drive along I-95 and I-26, so it’s quite manageable for a day trip if you want to experience both cities. If you’re planning to visit both in one trip, you could spend a day in each city, or you could take a longer drive (about 3.5 hours total) to explore both over the course of your week, making a loop if you want to sample both destinations.

Is a Week in Savannah Enough?

Yes, a week in Savannah can definitely keep you busy! The city is filled with historical sites, gardens, museums, and beautiful outdoor spaces. Plus, Savannah is compact, so it's easy to explore the city on foot or by trolley, making it an ideal destination for a week-long trip. Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week in Savannah:

Day 1: Arrival & Historic District
Arrive in Savannah, check in to your hotel, and start exploring the Historic District. Walk around the beautiful squares, see the famous Forsyth Fountain, and get your bearings. Dinner at a local favorite like Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room for classic Southern food.
Day 2: Explore the Waterfront & River Street
Spend the morning walking along River Street, a charming area with shops, galleries, and restaurants. Take a riverboat cruise or enjoy lunch by the water. In the afternoon, visit the historic Savannah Theatre or take a guided tour of one of the stately mansions in the Historic District, such as the Owens-Thomas House or the Davenport House.
Day 3: Day Trip to Tybee Island
Take a day trip to Tybee Island (about 20 minutes from Savannah). Relax on the beach or visit the Tybee Island Lighthouse & Museum. You can also explore Fort Pulaski National Monument, which has impressive Civil War history and great views.
Day 4: Museums & History
Visit some of Savannah’s best museums, such as the Savannah History Museum or the SCAD Museum of Art. Explore the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist for its beautiful architecture and stained-glass windows. In the evening, take a ghost tour or a historical walking tour for a spooky, fun way to learn about the city’s haunted past.
Day 5: Day Trip to Hilton Head Island
If you want a change of pace, head to Hilton Head Island for the day. It’s about an hour away and offers beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, and great seafood restaurants. You could also take a dolphin-watching tour or rent bikes and explore the island.
Day 6: Bonaventure Cemetery & Garden Tours
Take a morning trip to Bonaventure Cemetery, famous for its stately oak trees and elaborate monuments. Spend the afternoon visiting beautiful gardens and parks, such as the Savannah Botanical Garden or the Wormsloe Historic Site, where you can walk under the famous oak-lined avenue.
Day 7: Last Day & Shopping
On your last day, take it easy by visiting some local shops and galleries. Savannah is known for its charming boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops. Walk through the picturesque squares and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café. If you have time, end the day with a visit to the Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens.

Additional Tips for Visiting Savannah:

Make sure to try classic Southern cuisine, such as fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and peach cobbler. Local favorites include The Grey, The Collins Quarter, and Leopold’s Ice Cream.
Be prepared for mild but sometimes humid weather in December. It’s a good idea to layer and bring a light jacket, as temperatures can vary.
Consider taking a trolley or bus tour to make the most of your time and see some of the city’s historic homes, churches, and landmarks.

If you have the time and energy to travel between both Savannah and Charleston, you could create a road trip loop to enjoy both cities. Charleston is a beautiful city as well, with a lot of history, excellent food, and scenic views. But if you prefer a more relaxed pace, a week in Savannah will certainly be enough to keep you entertained with plenty of things to see and do!

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