If you only have one day in Savannah, Georgia, this guide is for you. I’ve packed in the must-see sights, local eats, and charming detours to help you make the most of your 24 hours in Georgia’s most beautiful city.
As a local and travel blogger who calls Savannah home, I’ve spent years exploring everything this city has to offer – from hidden alleyways with speakeasies to picturesque historic squares.
This enchanting city wraps you in charm the moment you arrive. With its moss-draped oak trees, cobblestone streets, and centuries-old architecture, it feels like stepping into a Southern storybook.
My 1-day itinerary for Savannah is packed to the brim, so when you visit, bring your walking shoes. From morning strolls through Forsyth Park to enjoying cocktails and breezes from rooftop bars overlooking the Savannah River, I’m giving you the lowdown on a fast-paced 24 hours and the very best Savannah has to offer.
Things to Do in Savannah in One Day
1. Start Your Day with a Stroll at Forsyth Park
Begin your morning at Forsyth Park, a 30-acre green space in the heart of the Historic District. It’s one of the most photographed places in Savannah, thanks to its iconic white fountain modelled after one in Paris.
Come early to enjoy the peacefulness before the crowds arrive. On Saturdays, don’t miss the Forsyth Farmers’ Market, offering local produce, handmade goods, and fresh pastries. Grab a coffee from nearby Foxy Loxy or The Collins Quarter before your stroll, and let the Spanish moss guide you through the oak-lined paths.
2. Head to Monterey Square and See Historic Homes
From Forsyth, walk a few blocks north to Monterey Square, arguably Savannah’s most beautiful square. Centered around the Pulaski Monument, this square is framed by grand townhomes and historic landmarks.
Architecture lovers will appreciate Congregation Mickve Israel, one of the oldest Jewish synagogues in the country, built in the Gothic Revival style. If you’re a fan of quiet beauty, the benches here are perfect for a moment of reflection and people-watching.
Don’t miss the most famous historic house in Savannah – the Mercer-Williams House. That house is cemented in legacy, made famous by the book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. If you keep walking, you will come across Chatham Square, which was made famous by Forest Gump and his box of chocolates.
3. Explore River Street & Go on a Savannah River Cruise
Next, head toward River Street, the bustling heart of Savannah’s waterfront. Once lined with cotton warehouses, this cobblestone road now hosts boutique shops, lively pubs, and historic buildings with river views.
But the best way to see the city is from the river itself. Hop on a Savannah River cruise for an unforgettable experience where you can take in the city’s stunning riverside views and learn all about Savannah’s rich history. All of you know how much I love cruises and love to blog about the different cruise lines. The Savannah Riverboat Cruise provides a scenic tour along the harbor and is also perfect for a sunset cruise.
4. Lunch at a Local Gem
When it’s time to refuel, Savannah delivers! For classic Southern cuisine, try Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room, where guests dine family-style on fried chicken, cornbread, and greens. The bowls just keep on coming to your table, so bring a huge appetite! For a more modern touch, check out The Public Kitchen & Bar on West Liberty Street.
If you’re near the waterfront, consider Vic’s on the River. It’s located in an old cotton warehouse overlooking the Savannah River and Historic River Street. You can enjoy lovely waterfront views or dine outside on the patio under centuries-old Live Oaks that overlook historic Factors Walk.
If you love craft beer and small batch craft spirits, check out Hop Atomica, a popular pizzeria and brewery featuring wood-fired pizza, beer, and spirits. It’s home to the only distillery in Savannah, and is operated by brothers Smith and Pratt Mathews. Follow them on Instagram @hopatomica and discover amazing food and beverage events and markets to check out while you’re in Savannah. And, check out the distillery spirits @atomicaspirits.
5. Afternoon Art & Architecture
Spend your early afternoon exploring one of Savannah’s cultural treasures. The Telfair Museums, for example, include the Jepson Center for contemporary art and the Owens-Thomas House for a glimpse into 19th-century life.
Alternatively, visit the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, a breathtaking example of French Gothic architecture. Or, simply walk down Jones Street, often called one of the most beautiful streets in America, for some leisurely sightseeing.
This past April, I had the pleasure of discovering more about Jones Street while attending the NOGS Tour of Hidden Gardens – an absolute must if you’re visiting Savannah in the spring. NOGS stands for ‘North of Gaston Street,’ referring to the charming historic residential district in the heart of Savannah. Hosted by The Garden Club of Savannah, one of the oldest and largest garden clubs in Georgia, the tour offers a rare peek behind the gates of private gardens. What makes this event truly special is the incredible creativity on display. Each garden reflects the unique vision of its homeowner, and I was in awe of the thoughtful design and artistic touches throughout these hidden oases.
If you’re an ice cream lover, you will love Leopold’s Ice Cream, which opened its doors in 1919. This iconic shop not only serves delicious scoops but also offers a nostalgic experience with its vintage soda fountain, classic counters, and original recipes.
6. Explore Bonaventure Cemetery or Take a Ghost Tour
Savannah has no shortage of ghost tours, and it’s no wonder. This storied Southern city, one of the oldest in the region, is rich in genteel charm, colorful characters, and haunting tales that linger like Spanish moss in the breeze.
That’s why, if you have time and transportation, head to Bonaventure Cemetery, a 3.5-mile (5.5 km) drive from Savannah’s centre. Made famous by the book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, it’s known for its haunting beauty, ancient oaks, and historic graves.
Prefer to stay downtown? Join one of Savannah’s many walking ghost tours. With its long and mysterious history, the city is a hotbed of haunted tales. Tours start around dusk and blend storytelling, history, and just the right amount of spookiness.
Looking for Savannah’s most unforgettable ghost tour? Check out Spirit Xperience. It offers an intimate, interactive paranormal walk with small group sizes and only one tour per night. Guests use real ghost-hunting equipment alongside seasoned investigators, often experiencing unexplained activity. Guided by Mike, a former pastor with supernatural expertise, and Ty, a clairvoyant who attracts spirits, the tour blends haunted history with hands-on investigation. With over five years of experience and deep local knowledge, the guides bring Savannah’s eerie past to life. It’s a spooktacular, one-of-a-kind experience you won’t want to miss!
There are other popular tours as well, like the Haunted Savannah Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour or the Savannah Ghostwalker Tour and Ghost Hunt.
7. Where to Eat and Drink in Savannah: Top Dinner Spots & Rooftop Bars
As the sun sets, treat yourself to a memorable dinner. The Grey, located in a restored Greyhound bus terminal, offers fine dining with James Beard-awarded flair.
Another standout option is Chive Seabar and Lounge, where you will relish seafood infused with Asian and Southern influences in a chic and intimate environment.
After dinner, cap off your day with drinks at one of Savannah’s rooftop bars. Peregrin, atop the Perry Lane Hotel, is hands-down one of the most recommended by Savannahians and offers panoramic views, craft cocktails, and a lively atmosphere.
If you prefer something on the Riverfront, Rocks on the Roof, located atop the Bohemian Hotel, allows you the perfect perch to watch the container ships bring in cargo to the port.
But my all-time favorite rooftop bar in Savannah is Bar Julian at The Thompson Hotel. You can’t beat the vibe inside the bar, and it’s got the most dynamic view of the Savannah River. The food is always excellent, and they serve delicious pizzas. If you like hotels with cool pool spaces, you can relax in Thompson Hotel’s cabanas and order food from Bar Julian during the summer months.
Best Time to Visit Savannah
The best times to visit Savannah are spring (March–May) and fall (September–November).
Spring brings blooming azaleas and the city’s famous St. Patrick’s Day celebration—one of the largest in the U.S. Fall offers milder temperatures and fewer crowds, making it ideal for walking tours and outdoor dining.
Summer in Savannah? Hot, humid, and downright swampy….but, for ladies who’ve always wanted “big hair”, coastal Georgia will be your Mecca in the summer months. 🙂 If you’re visiting then, pack your best anti-frizz products — Olaplex is my go-to, thanks to my friend Becky Newton Miller, who introduced me to this miracle hair cream. Trust me, it’s a game-changer when it comes to controlling frizz.
For those not loving the humidity, Winter is mild and quiet, making it a great time for cozy escapes and off-season deals.
Where to Stay in Savannah
For a one-day trip, staying in the Historic District is ideal. You’ll be within walking distance of major sights, shops, and restaurants.
- Luxury: Perry Lane Hotel – A rare gem in the “Hostess City.” It has absolutely EVERYTHING under one roof and, actually, on the roof. It offers beautifully appointed rooms, The Perigran Rooftop Bar, Emporium Kitchen and Wine Market, and so much more! Blending Southern charm with cosmopolitan flair, it also features a curated art collection and a rooftop pool with panoramic city views. You’ll love the location of this hotel, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking luxury and local flavor in Savannah.
- Boutique + Elevated: Hotel Bardo Savannah
Step into timeless charm with a modern twist at Hotel Bardo. This stunning Victorian-Romanesque mansion, nestled among historic homes in Savannah’s beautiful Historic District, offers a perfect blend of elegance and edge, right across from the iconic Forsyth Park. With its stylish, Mediterranean-inspired pool that channels the vibe of Cannes, France, and its vibrant mix of urban energy and neighborhood warmth, Hotel Bardo is more than just a place to stay; it’s an experience. Be sure to check out the Saint Bibiana Cooking School on-site, where you can sharpen your culinary skills and connect with fellow travelers. Recently named one of the South’s Best New Hotels, this gem is the perfect mix of luxury, culture, and community. - Bed and Breakfast: Hamilton-Turner Inn – Escape to this tucked-away historic Inn in the heart of Savannah’s historic district. Each of the 17 rooms is individually designed and effortlessly elegant, creating a cozy, luxurious ambience that’s absolutely perfect for a romantic getaway. You can join fellow guests for wine and hors d’oeuvres at the Innkeeper’s Reception—a lovely Southern tradition that adds such a personal touch. If you’re craving charm, comfort, and a little indulgence in Savannah, this Inn is a must.
How to Get Around Savannah
Savannah is incredibly walkable—especially the Historic District, which spans just over a square mile. Walking allows you to enjoy the squares, architecture, and hidden gems.
Free transportation options in Savannah include:
- DOT Shuttle: Free hop-on/hop-off buses around downtown.
- Savannah Belles Ferry: Connects River Street with Hutchinson Island.
You can also rent bikes or scooters, or use ride-shares for longer trips.
Top-Rated Walking & Trolley Tours in Savannah, GA
Tours are a great way to learn about the city while being entertained. Here are a few highly recommended ones.
- Old Town Trolley Tours – This all-day hop-on, hop-off historic tour lets you explore the city at your own pace, while enjoying history from knowledgeable local guides who give live commentary between stops. Bonus: It’s a great way to get in all the sightseeing points on this itinerary– afterall, you only have one day to see Savannah.
- Savannah City Walking Tour – For those who prefer guided exploration, count on Geentel and Bard Tour Company, which is ranked in the top 1% of Expedia’s U.S. Historical and Cultural Experiences.
Be sure to book early – popular tours fill up quickly, especially in spring and fall.
What to Pack for Your Savannah Trip
As you’re packing for a trip to Savannah, I suggest including a lightweight jacket because we can have a nip in the air in the spring and fall, since we are right on the water. My personal favorite is to pack a jean jacket. It’s versatile and can be worn with every color. It pairs well with t-shirts and even looks awesome over a dress if styled right. Choose a mid to dark jean wash because they make you look thinner and are easiest to dress up or down.
If you are wondering what to pack for your day in Savannah, there are a few things I always recommend:
- Sunglasses – An essential, of course! I love these cat-eye ones in the style of Jackie Kennedy Onassis.
- Sunhat – I love a stylish Panama hat for any hot weather destinations, and Savannah ticks that box in the summer! This one has a wide brim and can provide UPF 80-rated protection. It is also breathable.
- Lipbalm with SPF – Don’t forget about protecting your lips! This Jack Black Lip Therapy is my forever essential item.
- Sunscreen: Sunscreen is really important, even if you think there isn’t a lot of sun. These are my favorite ones and are both recommended by dermatologists as one of the best, and they protect against UVA and UVB rays. EltaMD face sunscreen and Aveeno body sunscreen.
- Wet wipes – A little pack of wet wipes comes in handy for cleaning hands or refreshing your skin in humid weather. These smell amazing, perfectly beachy!
- Insect repellent
- Sundresses – Pack a few timeless dresses that can be casual or dressed up. This maxi dress can be worn with heels or sneakers and resists shrinking and wrinkling. If you are looking for a spaghetti strap, boho flowy look, check out this beach vacation dress.
- Lightweight cover-up or shawl – I love this HappyLuxe Shawl because it’s silky-soft to the touch and is designed with 95% Tencel and cashmere. Perfect to throw on if it gets chilly.
- Shorts – Classic Levi shorts are always an essential, and for something more lightweight, you can’t go wrong with cotton shorts.
- Cute tops – This babydoll top is perfect whether you are 25 or 65! Pair with shorts and you are ready!
- Stylish sandals – I love these Sam Edelman Women’s flat sandals; they can be worn day or evening and can be dressed up or down.
- Lightweight shirts – Pack a lightweight shirt that can be thrown on over a bathing suit or dressed up with shorts. They are great for added sun protection or a layer if you are a little chilly.
- Jewelery – Pack a few pieces to accessorize your outfits. These WaterDrop Earrings are versatile and classic. I also recommend jewelry that can make a statement. This Anne Klein two-tone bracelet watch fits the bill!
- Small crossbody bag – Perfect if you are just carrying your phone, room key and lipstick!
1 Day in Savannah: Final Thoughts
Savannah is packed with beauty, charm, and history at every turn. Whether you’re sipping coffee on River Street, wandering through mossy squares, or hearing a chilling ghost story under moonlight, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories.
Use this one-day itinerary as a guide, but don’t be afraid to linger longer in the places that capture your heart. Savannah always has more to reveal.
➡ Thinking of staying longer? Head over to my Travel Shop to download my detailed 13-page, 3-day Savannah Itinerary—complete with a bonus day at beautiful Tybee Island! Use promo code: SUMMER25 through Aug. 31, 2025 and get 25% off.
Planning to visit soon? Book your hotel, tours, and experiences through my recommended links, and follow me @jltravelbug for more insider Savannah tips. See y’all soon!
💙 Additional Resources that Bring Value to Travel: TravelZoo
A trusted source for insider-only travel deals is offering something wildly worth it: Today, you can snag a TravelZoo Membership that combines unbeatable savings with calming perks. You can try out the 30-day premium membership for just $1. Here’s what you get:
✈️ Up to 65% off handpicked hotel, cruise, and vacation packages
🛋️ Complimentary airport lounge access during delays (snacks, Wi-Fi, and quiet)
🎁 Weekly vacation giveaways, including bucket-list destinations like the Maldives
⏱️ Early access to their Top 20® deals and flash sales
🌸 Exclusive wellness perks–like 50% off spa and massage treatments, even when you’re not traveling
🌍 Insider offers you won’t find on public travel sites
Jenny Lynn on a Journey Travel Blog contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate marketing programs. If you make a purchase using one of these links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you.
