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Spending a weekend in Savannah, Georgia is an excellent way to experience the captivating city. Dripping with Southern charm, Savannah is highlighted by an intriguing history, alluring landscapes and delicious comfort cuisine. Those planning a trip to Savannah, GA can make the most of their time by using our detailed day-by-day Savannah Itinerary!
Weekend in Savannah, Georgia
On a weekend trip to Savannah, GA, visitors can savor the absolute best of the city. This includes seeing the sights, to learning about the history to eating the food. During my girls weekend in Savannah with my mom and sister, we did all that…and a little bit more!
The reason for our Savannah weekend trip was to participate in a half marathon, but it certainly deserves a visit for any occasion. As detailed trip planners, we packed our weekend in Savannah, Georgia with sightseeing, shopping, strolling and stuffing ourselves with some of the best food the city has to offer.
Rather than just 2 days in Savannah, we planned our trip as a long weekend in Savannah with three days to see the city.
Pro Tip: There are many weekend events in Savannah, GA that visitors can build a Savannah weekend itinerary around. Top choices include Saint Patrick’s Day, the Savannah Music Festival, the Savannah Food and Wine Festival and even a Bacon Festival!
Best 3 Days in Savannah, GA Itinerary
We believe any weekend in Savannah, GA deserves a full dose! Therefore, we created a trip plan for 3 perfect days in Savannah. For our Savannah, Georgia Itinerary, we assume you will arrive by mid-day on Friday (or Saturday) and stay until Sunday (or Monday) evening. If you are planning 3 days in Savannah, Georgia during weekdays, you can still use our outlined trip with just a few tweaks.
Our Savannah Itinerary
Our 3-Day Savannah Itinerary is packed with top sights and must-see attractions. In addition to our tips for what to see and do in Savannah, we include everything you need to know to plan your fun weekend in Savannah.
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Savannah Travel Guide to plan your trip to Georgia!
DAY 1 of your Weekend Getaway in Savannah
Kick off your weekend in Savannah, GA getaway by the Savannah River, which has played a vital role in the city’s history. Then, work your way through the contemporary craft beer scene and get a taste of southern food with a modern twist. End the first night of your itinerary for Savannah, GA with stories of frightening ghouls on a Ghost Tour.
Savannah River Street
River Street is the perfect place to start your exploration and your weekend trip to Savannah, Georgia. The historic cobblestone street extends two miles along the banks of the Savannah River – and a half mile of the stretch is a pedestrian-only promenade.
A must-see on any Savannah, Georgia itinerary, the street is lined with brick buildings that were once used as cotton warehouses. They now house restaurants, bars and boutique shops selling antiques, souvenirs, and local artwork. Several monuments also stand on River Street. These include the African American Monument, WWII Memorial, the Waving Girl Statue, and the Olympic Cauldron.
Pro Tip: Taking a Savannah Riverboat Cruise is a great way to get acquainted with the city! In addition to the popular Savannah sightseeing cruises, visitors can enjoy a brunch, lunch or dinner cruise. Get the details!
Savannah Craft Beer
By now, you have probably worked up a thirst. There may be no better way to quench it than with a cold beer from a Savannah craft brewery. Service Brewing Company is a veteran owned brewery and has a good range of craft beer on tap in a cool space.
World of Beer, with a full line up of tried-and-true brews is another great place to kick off your fun Savannah, GA weekend getaway. They also offer a daily happy hour and a full menu of pub grub, but go easy because we have another suggestion for dinner!
Dinner at Treylor Park
Chic-yet-unpretentious, Treylor Park is a super spot for dinner on your trip to Savannah. The eclectic ‘Trailer Park’ menu features items like PB&J Chicken Wings, their signature loaded Waffle Fry Nachos and Chicken and Pancake Tacos. For drinks, they feature an inventive cocktail list and local craft beer in cans and on draft.
Savannah Haunted Ghost Tour
One of the absolute best things to do in Savannah, GA at night is to join a ghost tour. The convertible hearse ghost tour is a top pick for an entertaining introduction to haunted Savannah.
However, the Haunted Pub Crawl was more our style for our Savannah, GA weekend trip. The two-hour tour visits three creepy and haunted bars, where you can sip your drink while hearing the spooky stories.
DAY 2 of Your Savannah Weekend Itinerary
On the second day of your three days in Savannah, start your morning in the expansive Forsyth Park. Then indulge in sumptuous fare and embark on a Savannah sightseeing adventure. End the day with yet another delectable meal.
Forsyth Park
Of all the Savannah sights to see, Forsyth Park is an absolute must! Lined with walking paths and dotted with memorials, the opulent fountain at the north end is the most recognizable feature.
If you are looking for things to do in Savannah, GA this weekend, there is likely something happening here. Forsyth park plays host to top events – such as the Savannah Jazz Festival, Free Movie Night and the Saturday Farmer’s Market.
Pro Tip: If you get an early start to your Savannah, GA sightseeing, spend some time wandering through the Victorian District. The neighborhood dates to the 1800s and features fine examples of the ornate houses of that time. The Gingerbread House (now a wedding venue) is truly picture-perfect!
Lunch at The Olde Pink House
Make an early reservation for lunch at Olde Pink House, one of the top-rated restaurants in Savannah. Housed in a Colonial mansion, the posh restaurant serves Southern classics with an elegant touch. Fried Chicken, Shrimp and Grits and Fried Green Tomatoes are featured on the menu – but the She Crab Soup is a specialty. Patrons can either be seated in the original opulent ballroom or cozy wine cellar.
Savannah Food Tour
One of the best things about a long weekend in Savannah, Georgia is the southern food! If you would rather forego the fancy meal in a Southern mansion, consider indulging in a variety of Savannah cuisine on a Culinary Food Tour. Participants eat samples from six eateries – including fare such as Shrimp and Grits and Pork Belly Donut Sliders.
Pro Tip: As it is for many planning a long weekend in Savannah, eating lunch at Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room was a must on our itinerary. A Savannah institution, the Southern home-cooked meal is served family-style and the food does not disappoint. However, the restaurant is only open on weekdays from 11am until 2pm.
Savannah Walking Tour
Savannah is a breathtakingly beautiful city! Historic mansions line the streets, thick moss hangs from the ancient trees and fascinating history lurks in every corner. Strolling the streets (like picturesque Jones Street) is a must do in Savannah, GA.
For your Savannah 3 Day Itinerary, we recommend that you walk through the Savannah Historic District. You can wander aimlessly or seek out the quaint squares, national landmarks and gorgeous parks.
Some of the top places to see in Savannah are Colonial Park Cemetery (featuring historic grave markers and some say ghosts), the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist (a stunning neo-gothic church) and Chippewa Square (where the Forrest Gump bench was).
On the other hand, you can let a local guide show you where to go on a guided Savannah sightseeing tour. Your guide will share more historic information and local tips. Book this tour!
Pro Tip: If you decide to plan your own Savannah sightseeing walk, consider using the Hop On Hop Off Trolley as an easy way to get around.
Savannah Museums and Historic Home Tours
Savannah is peppered with a profusion of well-preserved historic homes – many of which have been converted into museums. Seeing these historic structures – either from the outside on a self-guided walk or actually going inside – is a must on your itinerary for Savannah, Ga. Two of the most popular houses to tour are the Owens Thomas House and the Mercer Williams House.
The Owens-Thomas House, built in 1819, features the extravagant main house, as well as the slave quarters, detailing the tragic history the city has with enslavement.
The Mercer-Williams House is a well-preserved mansion that was built in 1860 and features antique furnishings. It also happens to be the setting of the book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, which is based on a true story of the previous home owner.
Girl Scout founder, Juliette Gordon Low, was a Savannah resident – and both her childhood home (Birthplace of Juliette Gordon Low) as well as the house where she spent her final days (Andrew Low House) are now museums.
More Museums in Savannah
Love museums? We have more suggestions that visitors might want to include on their 3 Day Savannah Itinerary!
Telfair Museum: American and European artwork housed in stately mansion
Savannah History Museum: The history of Savannah from the American Revolution to current times.
American Prohibition Museum: Detailing the era in the USA, plus a cool speakeasy serving cocktails.
Georgia State Railroad Museum: A National Historic Landmark featuring classic railcars.
Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum: Detailing the maritime history in Savannah – complete with ship models and antiques.
Davenport House: Preserved 19th century brick house with period furnishings that offers tours.
Dinner at The Grey
Eating dinner at The Grey is a fabulous idea for your Savannah, Georgia weekend trip! Housed in a converted 1934 Greyhound Bus Station, The Grey offers an exquisite dining experience. Patrons can sit in the main restaurant or the Diner Bar (which has a different menu). The food is sophisticated Southern, the service is impeccable and the atmosphere is sensational. Reservations are recommended far in advance.
If you cannot get a seat at The Grey, the Savannah Seafood Shack is another popular option. Their Southern-style seafood is fantastic…but expect a long wait!
For something a little more low-key but steeped in history – go to Crystal Beer Parlor. Established in 1933, it is the oldest restaurant in town and a classic place to visit on your Savannah, GA trip. The Crab Soup and Shrimp and Grits stand out as Southern favorites, but the burgers are tasty as well. Whatever you choose to eat, wash it down with one of the more than 20 local beers on tap!
Savannah Nightlife
The nightlife in Savannah is superb! Seriously, you won’t have any problem finding fun things to do in Savannah at night.
For an entertaining evening full of fun, head to City Market where there is a cluster of bars, live music and flowing libations. Wet Willie’s (known for alcoholic slushies) and Tree House (popular for their creative concoctions) are two fantastic spots.
If rowdy imbibing isn’t your scene, try Alley Cat Lounge instead. The hip bar features an extensive and innovative cocktail list, but has local craft beer as well. For sophisticated and hip Savannah nightlife, head to the Plant Riverside District and the Electric Moon Lounge
One of the fun things about nightlife in Savannah is that they allow drinks to-go. As many of the city squares feature live music at night, it is great to grab a drink and find a spot to listen (and dance) to the melodies.
Pro Tip: Wondering what to do in Savannah at night that doesn’t include drinking? Our top recommendation is to simply walk the historic streets after dark, when they feel simultaneously mysterious and romantic.
DAY 3 of Your Weekend Trip to Savannah
On the last day of your Weekend in Savannah Itinerary, explore beyond the city limits. Venture out to Bonaventure Cemetery, eat seafood on Tybee Island and walk among moss covered trees at the Wormsloe Historic Site.
Note: If you plan a trip to Savannah, GA without a car, it will be nearly impossible to get to all of the sights. However, visitors flying to Savannah can book a 1-day car rental in downtown.
Bonaventure Cemetery
A Savannah must see, the 100-acre Bonaventure Cemetery dates to the mid-1800s. It ranks as one of the most beautiful cemeteries in the world (along with the Pere Lachaise in Paris and Recoleta in Buenos Aires). Located on a bluff of the Wilmington River, the historic space features curving, tree-lined lanes and ornate (and sometimes eerie) sculptures.
Seeing the cemetery is a must for your Savannah, Georgia itinerary! It is free to visit, but for a more in-depth understanding, join a guided tour.
Tybee Island
Located just 20 miles from Savannah, Tybee Island has long been a summer retreat and one of the best Savannah day trips. Some of the top attractions are the 1736 Tybee Island Lighthouse, Tybee Beach Pier and Fort Pulaski National Monument (a Civil War landmark).
Other great things to do in Tybee Island Savannah include hanging out on the beach, kayaking on the waterways, and eating amazing seafood. Bubba Gumbo’s, String Ray’s Seafood, The Deck and The Crab Shack are all local favorites.
Wormsloe Historic Site and the Moon River District
A former Colonial estate and plantation, the grounds of the Wormsloe Historic Site are a popular Savannah day trip. Giant oak trees draped in moss line the entrance, creating a arched canopy. Inside the estate, visitors can see the exhibits at the museum and explore the many trails that lead to stunning viewpoints of the Isle of Hope.
More Sights in Moon River District Savannah
It time allows, explore more of the Moon River District. Visitors can learn about the heritage of the community at the Pin Point Heritage Museum, see sea creatures at the University of Georgia Aquarium, hike a trail at Skidaway Island State Park or discover the Isle of Hope district.
Sweet Afternoon Treat
Back in the city by mid-afternoon, treat yourself to one of Savannah’s signature sweets: Leopold’s Ice Cream or Byrd’s Famous Cookies. Or, go crazy, and try them both over the course of your 3 days in Savannah!
Founded in 1919, Leopold’s is legendary…and there will likely be a line down the street to prove it. Their Tutti Frutti flavor is what inspired Savannah native Johnny Mercer to write the song of the same name.
The Byrd Cookie Company was established in 1924, when you could get two Scotch Oatmeal cookies for just a penny. Still family owned, the Key Lime Cooler Cookie is one of the top sellers today (but they cost a bit more now!).
Rocks on the Roof Savannah
End your 3 days in Savannah, GA at Rocks on the Roof – the open-air rooftop bar at the Bohemian Hotel. We spent our final moments of our Savannah, Georgia girls weekend enjoying sunset over the river and Talmadge Memorial Bridge while sipping cocktails and sharing tapas. Cheers to Savannah!
Tips for your Weekend Trip to Savannah
Now that you know what to do in Savannah, we have some advice to help you plan your perfect vacation to Georgia!
How Many Days in Savannah?
We believe spending 3 days in Savannah, GA is the perfect introduction. It is just enough time to get acquainted with the city, experience the charm and feast on classic southern fare. In fact, a 3-day weekend in Savannah, Ga is absolutely ideal for first-time visitors.
That said, there is so much to do that we could easily plan a 1-Week Savannah, GA Itinerary. Honestly, we could fill several days by just wandering the picture-perfect lanes in the historic districts.
Conversely, if we were limited to planning a trip to Savannah for just one day, we would do it. While a quick day trip to Savannah would be a hurried affair, it would still be worth it!
Planning a Trip to the City of Savannah
We outlined the best way to spend 3 days in Savannah, but there is much more to planning your getaway to Georgia. As you make your reservations to visit the ‘Hostess City of the South’, you will need to keep track of all the details. We recommend using our Printable Travel Planner to stay organized!
When is the Best Time to Visit Savannah?
Summertime seems like an ideal time for a trip to Savannah. However, be aware that festivals can crowd the city and drive up the cost of accommodations. Furthermore, the sweltering heat can make exploring on foot and other outdoor activities less appealing.
Spending time in Savannah in the autumn is great for those who prefer slightly cooler temps. Plus, October is the best time to go to Savannah for ghost stories and Halloween events.
Planning a wintertime Savannah itinerary will work well for budget travelers. Hotel rates usually drop in January and February enabling frugal wanderers to plan a cheap trip to the city. Savannah is also one of the Best Places to Ring in the New Year!
The flowers blooming make a Savannah weekend in spring absolutely exceptional. Naturally, it is a popular time to visit, so expect some crowds and higher prices.
How To Get to Savannah
On our Savannah weekend trip, we arrived by plane at the Savannah Hilton Head International Airport (SAV). When checking for the best airfare prices, we always begin our search on SkyScanner.
SAV Airport
The airport in Savannah, GA is located about 10 miles northwest of the city. To get from the Savannah Airport to downtown without a car, visitors can take an Uber or a bus. You can also pre-book a private transfer online.
Amtrak to Savannah
It is possible to travel by train to Savannah, GA from a limited number of cities – such as Charleston, Jacksonville, Raleigh, Philadelphia, Washington DC and New York. That said, the travel time in long and likely not worth the hassle for just three days in Savannah.
Where To Stay in Savannah, GA
As a popular tourist destination, there are plenty of Savannah places to stay. Accommodations include a choice of internationally recognized brand hotels, boutique B&Bs and vacation rentals in Savannah.
Airbnb in Savannah
On our girls trip to Savannah, we opted to stay in an Airbnb that was located outside the historic district. The house had a lovely patio where we could enjoy our morning coffee before we started our daily sightseeing adventures. Without a car, we would recommend getting an Airbnb in the Savannah historic district.
B & B Savannah Historic District
Bed and Breakfasts are a Savannah specialty – and an excellent way to experience the city’s famous Southern charm. Ideal for a romantic Savannah getaway, The Foley House Inn (check availability) is an amazing Savannah B&B that gets rave reviews.
Savannah Hotels
For those more comfortable in hotels, there are ample choices for a weekend itinerary in Savannah. Perry Lane is a luxury hotel in Savannah offering elegant charm and modern amenities.
The Homewood Suites on the Riverfront gets great reviews for its location and rooftop pool, while the classic 1964 Thunderbird Inn offers a cool atmosphere.
Start your search for B&Bs and Hotels in Savannah on Booking.com and use our tips for finding the best rates!
What To Pack for a Weekend in Savannah
Okay, it’s time to talk packing hacks for Savannah trips! Grab our FREE Packing Checklist and your backpack or suitcase and let’s get started.
Travel Shoes for Savannah
In our Savannah Itinerary for 3 days, we explore a lot on foot! Between the long distances and cobblestone streets, you will want to pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes. I like to wear NB Trainers while taking in city sights.
Weather Appropriate Gear
Savannah experiences a humid subtropical climate – meaning winters are mild and summers are hot. July is the hottest month, with highs exceeding 90F.
We suggest bringing a packable raincoat and umbrella – as well as sunscreen, sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat. Also, don’t forget the insect repellent to keep the mosquitoes away!
Travel Camera
If you are anything like us, you will be snapping a ton of pictures of the most beautiful places to see in Savannah. Rather than relying your phone, upgrade to an actual camera. We use a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens, which takes phenomenal pictures. Best of all, it comes bundled with all kinds of fun accessories, which makes it a great budget camera for beginner photographers!
Day Bag for Savannah Sightseeing
A good day pack is one of the essential Savannah travel accessories! With long days of exploring on your Savannah weekend getaway, you will want to ensure your everyday travel items are neatly tucked away.
Interested in More US Destinations?
Take a look at our picks for the Best Weekend Trips. Looking for other options? Read our recommendations for Underrated US Destinations! If you already have a place in mind, we might have your perfect itinerary on our USA Travel Page!
Use our complete guides for other hot southern destinations, like Louisville, New Orleans and Nashville! Find our tips to top US cities, such as Indy, Chicago, Austin, Boston, NYC, Denver and San Francisco!
How about a Road Trip? Hit the highway with our guides to Montana, Columbia River Gorge or the Oregon Coast and California Highway 1!
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