Savannah, Georgia, is known for its eclectic architecture, peaceful landscapes, and southern charm. From the lush parks and squares to cobblestone streets and wide beaches, a Savannah honeymoon is a great choice for those looking to stay local.
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Is Savannah a Good Place for a Honeymoon?
Savannah is an excellent honeymoon destination. It has relatively good weather for outdoor activities and is easily accessible. In addition, there’s a lot to do and see for newlyweds looking for adventure, and enough beautiful scenery for those who prefer a laid-back and romantic honeymoon.
With cobbled streets lined with moss-covered oak trees, historic buildings, beautiful squares, fountains, gardens, and beaches, you’ll find more than you can exhaust in a single honeymoon.
What Activities Can You Do on a Honeymoon in Savannah?
- Explore the parks and city squares. Savannah city center has over 20 squares and breathtakingly beautiful parks perfect for biking, romantic walks, and picnics.
- Go on a romantic boat cruise in the Savannah River. You can hop aboard the Georgia Queen and enjoy Savannah’s sites and sounds from the river.
- Stroll the riverfront. The banks of the Savannah River have spectacular cobblestone streets lined with historic inns and romantic hotels.
- Immerse yourself in art, history, and architecture. You can start at Davenport House Museum and head to historic and religious buildings such as the Cathedral Basilica of St John the Baptist and the First African Baptist church.
- Go on a ghost tour. If you’re interested in the paranormal, go on a spooky ghost tour or have cocktails in Savannah’s haunted inns.
- Hit the beach. Indulge in water activities on Tybee Island. You can rent jet skis and paddleboards, or, for a more relaxing adventure, enjoy a sunset dolphin boat tour.
- Visit the Bonaventure Cemetery. Cemeteries aren’t typically romantic, but this one is different. It has the most picturesque views, including winding pathways lined with numerous Spanish-moss-covered trees.
What Is the Best Month to Visit Savannah?
The best months to visit Savannah are from March to June. The weather is perfect, and the flowers are in full bloom for a romantic setting. Mid-September to November is also an excellent time to visit, especially when you want to enjoy good weather and avoid crowds.
On the other hand, January and February are colder (average lows of 39°F and highs of 60°F), but it’s the best time to visit on a budget as the tourist surge declines.
Is a Honeymoon in Savannah Expensive?
On average, a couple may spend $2,500-5,000 on a weeklong Savannah honeymoon. The amount depends on your accommodation, food, and activity choices.
How To Plan a Budget Savannah Honeymoon
- Walk instead of taking a taxi. Savannah is a walkable city with beautiful streets, gardens, and parks.
- Stay outside the Historic District for cheaper accommodation.
- Enjoy free and cheap activities such as exploring the City Market (which has numerous shops, galleries, restaurants, and bars).
- Ensure your accommodation has a kitchen. You can also buy food from the farmers market in Forsyth Park and enjoy a picnic.
- Book early to secure the best honeymoon packages on flights and accommodation.
- Visit during the shoulder season. Fall is a good time, but if you don’t mind the cold weather, late winter (January-February)is the best time to save.
- Use the bus to get around the city.
5 Best Areas to Stay In Savannah
Historic District
Savannah’s Historic District is the best place for first-timers. It’s one of the safest places in Savannah and carries all the southern charm (think nightlife, romantic settings, great cuisine, and luxury resorts). It has historical architecture, lush squares, gardens and parks, and various accommodation types.
The best things to do in this district include:
- Taking romantic strolls and picnics in the leafy squares.
- Visit awe-inspiring landmarks such as the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist and Owen-Thomas House.
- Go on morning runs along the cobblestone streets and enjoy breakfast in the plentiful restaurants.
- Spend a day exploring and taking honeymoon pictures at Forsyth Park.
- Experience Southern hospitality as you wine and dine at the Olde Pink House.
River Street
As the name implies, this neighborhood is on the riverfront and is a haven for shoppers and nightlife enthusiasts. The streets are lined with historic buildings converted into Savannah’s finest boutiques, antique shops, restaurants, and bars with breathtaking river views.
Activities in this downtown area include:
- Take a riverboat cruise along the Savannah River.
- Go shopping for souvenirs in the plentiful boutiques and antique shops.
- Watch ferries and boats come and go as you enjoy a drink from one of the rooftop bars.
- Hop on a ferry and take a day trip to Hilton Head.
Tybee Island
This is Savannah’s beach destination and the best place to indulge in water activities. It’s 35 minutes away from the Savannah Historic District by car. Major Attractions include the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum, Tybee Beach Pier and Pavilion, and 19th-century fortresses.
Excursions on this island include:
- Spending lazy days on the sandy beaches.
- Sea kayaking and dolphin watching.
- Climb the lighthouse for a museum tour and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
- Immerse yourselves in history at Fort Pulaski National Monument.
- Indulge in local cuisine, including freshly caught seafood.
City Market
City Market is a vibrant neighborhood with all the sights and sounds of Savannah. It’s a perfect place to stay on a budget and have an unforgettable honeymoon. It’s lined with restaurants, shops, and street-level art galleries. It’s also the best place to enjoy Christmas and New Year holidays.
The best things to do in this neighborhood include:
- Explore the gift shops for unique souvenirs.
- Take walks in the shaded courtyards as you savor local dishes (award-winning steak and large pieces of pizza) and iced drinks.
- Visit street galleries and meet the artists as they craft and showcase their pieces.
- Enjoy live music and nightlife in the ‘haunted’ bars.
Midtown
Midtown is the best option for couples looking for a laid-back getaway. Since it’s more of a residential area, you’ll get the best deals on accommodation and quieter bars, restaurants, and stores. In addition, it has easy access to Forsyth Park, and you can take day trips to other neighborhoods, such as the Historic District.
Activities include:
- Shop at the locally owned shops and enjoy great deals.
- Take a day trip to Tybee Island and enjoy the picture-perfect beaches.
- Picnic at Forsyth Park and shop at the farmers market.
What Is the Best Way to Travel to Savannah?
Fly into Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport. The airport is only a twenty-minute drive from the downtown area.
You can also take a train from east coast cities such as New York City and Orlando, Florida. Major trains include the Palmetto and Silver Meteor. If you’re traveling on a budget, direct buses are available from New York City, Atlanta, and east coast cities in Florida.
Traveling Within Savannah
Traveling within Savannah is easy, and you have many options depending on your preference and budget. Here are several ways to get around:
- Buses: The Chatham Area Transit bus is your best option to connect different neighborhoods. You can purchase a weekly pass for a better deal.
- Shuttles: Dot shuttles are fare-free hence perfect for hopping on and off as you tour the Historic District.
- Walking: Savannah is a walkable city due to its cobblestone streets lined with trees to protect you from the sun.
- Biking: Savannah encourages eco-friendly pedaling and has many bike paths and wooded trails for the most picturesque views of the city
- Trolley tours: These tours are a fun way to explore the city. You’ll be entertained by costumed actresses who bring to life the mysterious stories of this southern city.
- Taxis: The best option when you want to save time and not worry about parking. But they can be pricey.
- Car hire: A personal car gives you privacy and freedom to explore at your pace.
- Belle ferry: Another free option, these colorful boats ferry passengers across the Savannah River.
What Types of Honeymoon Accommodations Are Available in Savannah?
Accommodation types in Savannah depend on your budget and preferences. The most popular include:
- Luxury hotels: You’ll find them in most neighborhoods, especially the Historic District.
- Historic inns: Are unique and original, with a perfect ambiance for a romantic getaway. Coupled with luxurious comforts, they double up as boutique hotels.
- Beach hotels: Tybee Island has the best bed and breakfast resorts with a seaside allure.
- Apartments and vacation rentals: Most Savannah neighborhoods have cozy and budget-friendly vacation rentals for the best honeymoon experience without overspending.
What Type of Food Should You Try in Georgia?
- Shrimp and grits: The grits are made with chicken stock, milk, garlic powder, cheddar cheese, and crushed corn. The shrimp is peeled and seasoned with butter, onions, paprika, and other optional spices. The two ingredients are served together and sometimes topped with honey.
- Khachapuri: Georgia’s national dish made of pizza dough with an egg and cheese as toppings.
- Pimento cheese: An integral dish in southern cuisine made of roasted red pepper and cheese spread. Usually used as a spread on toast and dip for vegetables, chips, and crackers.
What to Pack For a Honeymoon in Savannah
Savannah is a casual place with generally warm weather. Therefore, you’ll most likely want to pack lightweight and breathable clothing.
A few specific things you might want to pack include casual and slightly upscale clothing (for a nice dinner or photoshoot), comfortable walking shoes, durable purses or bags that aren’t easy for thieves to get into, reusable water bottles, and swimwear.
Is Savannah Safe to Visit?
Savannah is relatively unsafe to visit because the crime rate and theft are high, especially in non-touristy areas. Hence it’s crucial to exercise caution as you have fun. Here are safety precautions to help you stay safe:
- Stay in touristy areas (Historic District or Downtown Savannah), where the crime rate is lower and the security is higher.
- Use ATMs in secure places (connected to a large banking institution).
- Stick to busy streets when walking at night.
- If you visit during the rainy season, be wary of floods and take precautions.
- Carry backpacks and purses in the front.
- Don’t leave valuables in your car.
- Mind your drink while in bars.