Darija Stojanovic 
Hello adventurer, welcome to your ultimate guide on where to stay in Savannah, the Hostess City of the South! Everyone yearns for Savannah’s southern hospitality and charm every once in a while, so I decided to craft this simple guide to make your vacation planning easy-peasy!
The best area to stay in Savannah is certainly the Historic District. It’s close to the attractions, and it’s basically the heart and soul of the city. But stay tuned, as I’ve got you covered with 5 more fabulous areas that I nicely sorted by interest so you can pick the one that’s best for you!
I’ve also compared ALL hotels in the city and included the top-rated ones for every area, so you can literally book your vacation in 2 minutes and know that you’re getting the best value possible!
But do book that hotel in Savannah right away so you can secure the best deals!
If you are in a hurry
These are the best Savannah, GA, hotels that are up for grabs:
Contents
- If you are in a hurry
- 1. Savannah Historic District – where to stay for first-timers
- 2. Waterfront (East Bay & River Street) – liveliest place to stay
- 3. City Market Area – where to stay in Savannah for foodies
- 4. Midtown – where to stay in Savannah like a local
- 5. Pooler – where stay in Savannah on a budget
- 6. Tybee Island – where to stay for amazing beaches
- BONUS 1: Where to stay in Savannah, GA, for couples
- BONUS 2: Where to stay in Savannah with a family
- FAQs about where to stay in Savannah, GA
And here is a handy map to help you visualize the 6 areas of Savannah I will be talking about in this post:
- HISTORIC DISTRICT: for first-timers
- WATERFRONT : trendiest neighborhood
- CITY MARKET: for foodies
- MIDTOWN: for a local feel
- POOLER: for budget stays
- TYBEE ISLAND: for beaches
1. Savannah Historic District – where to stay for first-timers
The Historic District of Savannah (Downtown) is home to some of the city’s oldest and most notable houses and buildings that date back to the 19th century. The Historic District of Savannah with charming moss-covered live oaks is actually a city within a city!
This area is split into North and South Historic Districts, with the South having that authentic historical charm with old homes and cobblestone streets, while the North is trendier and more upscale.
The city has a grid architecture with green squares everywhere (22 of them!), with Chippewa Square being one of the most popular ones.
Some interesting museums here include the Telfair Museums (the oldest public art museum in the South), Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters (exploring the relationship between the rich and the slaves in the 19th century), Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace (she was a founder of Girl Scouts), and the Sorrel Weed House Museum with spooky ghost tours!
Bordering the Historic District and Victorian District is Forsyth Park, the most popular attraction in town! The huge outdoor area is perfect for casual strolls, picnics, and meeting the locals! I love the fountains and statues on every corner! Definitely a must-visit, especially if you’re visiting with kids and pets (by the way, the waterfront is just about 10 min walking!).
Other notable attractions here include the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist and the Bonaventure Cemetery, one of the most aesthetically pleasing cemeteries in the country!
And when you want to freshen up from the heat, head to Leopold’s Ice Cream, a legendary eatery serving the best desserts and sandwiches! There are also tons of shopping opportunities, notably on Broughton Street and Bull Street!
The Historic District is one of the safest neighborhoods in Savannah, GA, and these are the best hotels where you can stay:
Stunning accommodation that fits right in with the heart of the Historic District theme, with clean and well-maintained rooms that are perfect for your stay in Savannah. With a beautiful outdoor pool paired with a robust food selection and a modern fitness center, this hotel is one of the best places to stay in the Savannah, GA, Historic District.
P.S. Hyatt Regency Savannah is another luxury hotel where you can stay at a slightly lower price!
Other accommodation options in the Historic District
Regal 4-star hotel with an outdoor swimming pool and a perfect location in the center
Charming budget option located just outside the Historic District with colorful, clean decor
A modern space that parallels the beautiful scenery of the Historic District, a short walk from bars and restaurants
Things to do in the Historic District
- Go on a historic Hop On Hop Off trolley adventure
- Visit the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters and the other Telfair Museums
- Start your day energized at Savannah Coffee Roasters
- Relax and feel the wind in Lafayette Square
- Explore Savannah by land and sea
- Experience the railroad evolution unfold in the Georgia State Railroad Museum
2. Waterfront (East Bay & River Street) – liveliest place to stay
The further North you go towards the river, the more touristy Savannah gets! So, the Waterfront area is basically among the liveliest places to stay, with tons of luxury hotels, high-end dining, unique shops, and fun attractions.
The small sliver between the Historic District and the Savannah River is where you will find the vibrant East Bay (also known as East Bay Street) and River Street in Savannah, GA.
River Street itself is essentially a long shopping street that boasts incredible boutiques for all different styles and a happening atmosphere! East Bay Street’s classic red brick buildings contrast with green, tree-lined streets to create a unique hipster vibe for the area.
Just like its neighboring Historic District, East Bay is filled with art galleries, lively city markets, and a great selection of restaurants and cafes and has an abundance of great places to stay.
Did you know that 19th-cenutry Savannah used to be the 2nd cotton seaport in the world? You can see the remnants of the cotton industry in the Savannah Cotton Exchange restored warehouse building in Factors Walk, just south of River Street!
Popular places nearby include the Olde Pink House (a southern-style restaurant set in a Colonial mansion), Moon River Brewing Company for beer lovers, and the Plant Riverside District by the West side of the river, with the fancy hotels and late-night pubs. The Riverside District is a new sub-area with most businesses starting post-covid, and it’s also one of the best places to stay in Savannah for luxury.
Catch a free ferry across the river for something fun to do in Savannah! The ferries depart every 20 minutes from 3 locations: The City Hall, the Trade Center, and the Waving Girl statue (map)!
And if you’re up for a riverboat cruise, this is the best agency on the Waterfront to book from!
From the Waterfront, you can go on a short ride to Old Fort Jackson, an impressive fort just 4 miles East of River Street. Daily cannon firings, performances, and soldier demonstrations make this place fun for visitors of all ages!FUN FACT: The story of the bestselling book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil (turned into an iconic 1997 movie by Clint Eastwood) takes place in Savannah, and there are tons of filming locations in the city! There are even guided tours about it!
A fabulous 5-star hotel in the Plant Riverside District with 12 (!!) on-site restaurants, a spa and wellness center, a gym, and royal rooms! One of the best places to stay in Savannah, GA, for couples and families! Oh, and the hotel is situated in a former power plant building and has beautiful art in the lobby! Every detail here is carefully thought out!
P.S. River Street Inn and The Alida are other excellent luxury options in this part of the city!
Other accommodation options in Waterfront
Features a rooftop swimming pool with city views and a daily buffet breakfast close to the Riverfront
A top-rated VRBO for 4 guests just 1 minute from River Street, featuring stunning views of the Savannah River
Your private Savannah sanctuary with a modern interior, river views, and tons of great restaurants nearby
Things to do in Waterfront
- Walk the Waterfront and find monuments about important points in history
- Go on a Savannah River Boat Cruise
- Visit Graveface Museum if you’re into the world of oddity and crime
- Take the Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil walking tour
- Explore the new Riverside District
- End the day with a feast at Lizzy’s Burger Bar & Grill
3. City Market Area – where to stay in Savannah for foodies
An all-in-one marketplace and a great spot for food tasting, City Market is one of the oldest markets in America. Bordering Bay Street on one side and River Street on another, the market has a very urban feel inside its 19th-century brick walls with touches of classic southern features such as pergolas, street clocks, and flower-filled carriages.
There are two squares (Ellis & Franklin) located within the market area, which create a relaxed weekend atmosphere every day of the week!
You’ll find plenty of things to do and enjoy and tons of unique eateries with Southern fare (check out the Sorry Charlie’s Oyster Bar). You can also choose from many comfy street-side cafes and sip a coffee all day if you want to, or go shopping in eclectic shops nearby!
As for sightseeing, visit the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum to learn about 18th-century vessels! Also, check out the W Congress Street and the American Prohibition Museum. It’s super fun as you can sip a drink while learning about the ban on alcohol in the 1920s!
Beware that parking spots are super difficult to find here, so factor this in when you’re deciding where to stay in Savannah with a car!
It is the thoughtful, little extra touches that make this luxury 4-star hotel special. Alongside the typical heated swimming pool with cabanas, fire pits, and a fully equipped gym, Andaz boasts a farm-to-table restaurant with seasonal ingredients and southern flavors, as well as signature cocktails with homemade liqueurs. This colorful hotel has certainly thought of everything for your trip to Savannah, GA!
Other accommodation options in the City Market Area
3-star hotel with an outdoor swimming pool, an on-site restaurant, a gym, and a concierge desk
Ideal place for large groups (up to 6 people) just 5 minutes from River Street, decorated in an industrial-modern style
Ideally situated near all things cool, this 2-BR apartment is your ideal home away from home in Savannah
Things to do in the City Market Area
- Go antiquing at the market
- Attend a culinary and cultural history walking tour
- Relax in one of the surrounding squares
- Sip cocktails while learning about history at the American Prohibition Museum
- Wander through Franklin Square
- Visit the Haitian Monument
4. Midtown – where to stay in Savannah like a local
Midtown is the area South of the Victorian District (which itself is the continuation of the Historic District of Downtown). This is your typical suburban area less than 3 miles away from West Bay Street or a 15-minute ride from it.
Most of the action here, including all the mid-range hotels, are located along Abercorn Street. This street is actually the main connection to the Northern part of the city, that is, the Downtown.
Midtown also encompasses Starland District, an area with eclectic shops and eateries. Foodies in Savannah shouldn’t miss the Starland Yard, an outdoor food court with international food trucks! You’ll also be surrounded by lush parks, including the popular Daffin Park.
In terms of shopping, you have the Oglethorpe Mall (map) with plenty of shops for all tastes and budgets!
Overall, this is a typical residential area, and it lacks tourist attractions. I recommend staying around Abercorn to secure cheaper accommodation and have a great connection to the Historic District.
Hotels in Midtown are very few and mostly fall into the mid-range and budget categories. I couldn’t find any luxury accommodation options, so if you plan to splurge on your stay, check under the Historic District and Waterfront sections above!
Other accommodation options in Midtown
A lovely boutique hotel with free parking and Wi-Fi, just a 13-minute walk from Forsyth Park
Great value for 3 travelers: a hotel with a swimming pool, a gym, and on-site parking
A beautiful vintage apartment with 1 queen bed and a private bathroom in a semi-private space
Things to do in Midtown
- Explore the local residential streets
- Spend an afternoon in the Starland district
- Stroll in the Daffin Park (map)
- Enjoy a Savannah Bananas (barnstorming baseball team) game at the Grayson Stadium
5. Pooler – where stay in Savannah on a budget
Pooler is a large neighborhood West of Savannah, around 20-30 minutes away from Downtown by car. It’s a great place to stay on a budget and close to the airport.
The main attraction here is the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force, as this is where the legendary Air Force unit that fought in WWII was first created! You can see fun artifacts of the members of the 8th Air Force and real aircraft that belonged to them. It’s a fun activity for the whole family!
Here, you’ll also find the Fun Zone amusement park and the Tom Triplett Park, with tennis courts, picnic spots, golf courses, and just a lovely atmosphere for the kids to run free. Fast food chains and restaurants are available on the Louisville Road between the Fun Zone and the Air Force Museum.
Just North of Pooler is Savannah’s industrial center, Garden City. This is where the largest ocean terminal of the Port of Savannah is located. While some bloggers recommend staying here, I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it as all hotels have low ratings, and there are really no attractions here.
Pooler is a mostly residential neighborhood, but you’ll find plenty of mid-range and budget hotels here, especially as you get closer to the airport. So, if you have a late/early flight and want to save money, choosing a hotel here is a good idea! Do note that there are no luxury options.
Other accommodation options in Pooler and Garden City
A new 3-star hotel offering free bikes, free parking, and free airport shuttle; they also have a gym
Extended Stay America Premier Suites
Free parking, spacious family rooms, and a gym are only some of the highlights of this budget hotel
A cozy suite for 3 guests without extra cleaning fees, ideal for couples and families
Things to do in Pooler
- Visit the Museum of the 8th Air Force
- Take the kids to the Fun Zone amusement park
- Spend the afternoon playing golf in the Tom Triplett Park
- Explore the restaurants on Louisville Road
6. Tybee Island – where to stay for amazing beaches
Located a 30-minute drive East of Downtown Savannah, this barrier island is one of Savannah’s most popular spots for those looking to relax on beautiful beaches. Yes, Savannah is not only about history, art, and culture!
If you want to feel like you are in the Caribbean of the Southern USA, then Tybee Island is the perfect area! Leave the noisy sceneries of Savannah behind and experience the island’s warm and gentle waves.
Whether you like to sunbathe on the beach, rent a boat, go fishing in the Atlantic Ocean, or just watch the sunset with a bottle of wine and fresh seafood at The Crab Shack, you can do it all here! There is even 18-hole golf if you feel so inclined!
The Back River Beach is the island’s most exclusive and beautiful area, and it’s where you’ll find the most expensive vacation rentals. Also, Tybee Island Light Station & Museum is a top attraction!
While there aren’t many accommodation options on Tybee Island (it’s not a very big place), there are still some incredible options. Here are the best ones for each budget.
NOTE: If you’re traveling with pets, beware that dogs aren’t allowed at the beaches here! There are hefty fines for breaking this rule!
This cozy inn is just a minute’s walk from the beach and boasts a warm, homey atmosphere with bright, themed rooms, a fireplace, and deluxe bathrooms. Relax in the lush garden or any of the shared communal areas and feel secluded in your southern paradise.
Other accommodation options in Tybee Island
A 2-star motel with an outdoor swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, and a convenient location on the Butler Avenue
A charming and colorful vacation rental for 2 guests just by 5-minute walk to the beach
Situated in the heart of Tybee Island, this colorful condominium will have you relaxing 24/7
P.S. Hotel Tybee is a historic 130-year-old hotel right on the beach, the largest on Tybee Island. It does not have glowing reviews but they recently remodeled, so check it out!
Things to do on Tybee Island
- Relax on the beaches of Tybee Island
- Try your skill at fishing at the Back River Fishing Pier
- Visit the Tybee Island Light Station & Museum
- Beat the heat and unwind with free internet and drinks at Wind Rose Cafe
- Learn something new at the Tybee Island Marine Science Center
- Go dolphin watching
| 👑 Luxury price: | US$300 |
| 💵 Mid-range hotel: | US$200 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | US$130 |
| 📍 Best area: | Savannah Historic District |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Perry Lane Hotel |
| 🧳 Best mid-range hotel: | McMillan Inn |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Holiday Inn Express |
BONUS 1: Where to stay in Savannah, GA, for couples
Planning a romantic trip to Savannah, GA? I’ve handpicked the best hotels for couples featuring amenities like a pool, spas, or just being close to nice restaurants and attractions. I know for sure I’d stay in every single one of the hotels below!
Luxury:
- Kehoe House – Historic inns in Savannah are just so romantic, you can’t make a mistake whichever one you choose! This Kehoe House caught my attention with its traditional room decor that will truly make you feel like you embarked on a romantic journey from the early 20th century!
- Hamilton-Turner Inn – Another charming historic inn in the Historic District (on Lafayette Square!), with afternoon beverages and evening wine servings, designer bath amenities, and beautiful wall decorations in rooms!
- Andaz Savannah – A top-rated hotel in the Riverwalk District, featuring a mouth-watering on-site restaurant serving Southern fare, an outdoor pool, a gym, a bar, and top-notch rooms. They also have private parking if you’re visiting with a car!
Mid-range:
- The Thunderbird Inn – This classic Savannah motel has the most lovely decor, it welcomes pets, and is conveniently located just an 11-minute walk from the City Market! You’ll be surrounded by eclectic shops and restaurants everywhere you go.
- The Grant by Black Swan – A fabulous fully-equipped apartment a short walk from the Center with non-smoking rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a tasteful décor
Budget:
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott – My favorite budget-friendly hotel in Savannah with a year-round outdoor pool, a gym, and beautiful rooms with AC, in minutes of everything. They have private parking available on-site for $12 per day.
- Best Western Central Inn – This affordable hotel is packed with amenities ranging from a swimming pool, complimentary American breakfast, spacious rooms, and free parking on the premises.
BONUS 2: Where to stay in Savannah with a family
Visiting Savannah with a family? The Downtown will have you right in the center of the action, so you can literally walk to most of the attractions! And if you’re more into a beach vacation and would only occasionally stroll Downtown, then Tybee Island is for you!
I share the best family-friendly hotels in these 2 areas to help you pick the perfect stay for you and your loved ones:
- Luxury: Homewood Suites – Get a private suite for the whole family with access to a rooftop swimming pool, and all that in Savannah’s up-and-coming Riverfront district. They serve a full hot breakfast every morning, plus you get access to the gym and will be located just by the ferry terminal, so cruising the Savannah River will be a breeze!
- Mid-range: East Bay Inn – This kid-friendly hotel is ideally situated opposite River Street, serves light breakfast, has on-site parking, and homey family rooms. Everything you need for a pleasant stay with the little ones!
- Budget: Somewhere in Time Too – A bright, colorful, thoughtfully decorated vacation rental with free parking, free Wi-Fi, and room for 6 guests. One of the most highly-rated rentals for families with kids in the entire Savannah!
FAQs about where to stay in Savannah, GA
🌇 What is the best area to stay in Savannah, GA?
The Downtown area, which includes the Historic District, River Street, and East Bay, is the best area to stay in Savannah. You have all of the attractions and the best atmosphere within walking distance.
🏠 What are some areas to avoid in Savannah, GA?
Avoid areas like West Savannah, Cloverdale, and East of Live Oak. The area around City Market and Yamacraw Village is best to be avoided at night.
🍂 What is the best month to visit Savannah?
Spring (March-June) is the best time to visit Savannah because of the spring colors that light up the picturesque streets. The temperatures are also perfect for sweater weather at this time of year.
🏘️ Is Midtown Savannah a good place to stay for tourists?
Yes, Midtown Savannah offers a convenient location with a mix of historic charm and modern amenities, making it a favorable choice for visitors.
🏨 What are the best Savannah, Georgia resorts for families?
The Holiday Inn Express and the Tybee Island Inn are great accommodation options to stay in Savannah, GA, with family.
💃 What part of town is best to stay in Savannah for nightlife?
The Historic District in Savannah is the best part of town to stay in for nightlife, with its vibrant bars, restaurants, and live music venues.
❓ Is it better to stay in the North or South Historic District in Savannah?
Both are attractive to tourists and have plenty of things to do. North is better for luxury seekers and river views, while the South is better for history buffs as the buildings are much older.
Conclusion
I hope you loved reading my post and that it helped you decide where to stay in Savannah, GA!
I have covered the top 6 areas for every type of traveler, as there really is something for everyone in this beautiful city full of historic inns.
If you haven’t already chosen, here are my absolute top 2 hotels in Savannah:
- Perry Lane Hotel – Stunning accommodation that fits right in with the historic district theme.
- Holiday Inn Express – Featuring a rooftop swimming pool with city views and a daily buffet breakfast.
Don’t wait too long to decide where to stay in Savannah! It’s quite a popular town, and accommodations are selling out fast – the best deals might just be on their way out!
And if you’re continuing to travel around Georgia, check out my post on where to stay in Atlanta.
Please leave a comment below if you have any questions about a place to stay or Savannah in general. I will do my best to answer ASAP!
Happy travels,
Darija
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We love your Website Kate!We booked an air b a ND b in the Victoria District in Savannah 2 blocks from Kroger Market and Forsyth Park .We are 2 Seniors in our 70’s and love to walk but after reading about some unsafe areas we are concerned.