places to visit between charleston and savannah

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Things to Do Between Savannah and Charleston: 12 Great Stops

Are you looking for something fun to do on your trip to Savannah, Georgia, and Charleston, South Carolina? I’ve compiled a list of great stops along the way to add even more fun to your trip and explore the rich history of the area. These are the top things to do between Savannah and Charleston.

From historic sites and nature trails to unique attractions, there is something for everyone in between these two cities.

Suggested stops in this article are arranged in order from the closest to downtown Charleston to the closest to downtown Savannah. Any (or several) of these sites would make a great addition to your Charleston and Savannah itinerary.

Plan the perfect trip to Charleston and Savannah with this free printable travel planner .

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Map of the places to stop between Savannah and Charleston

This map shows all of the sites listed in this article below. To get to the interactive Google map, click here or on the image below.

Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site

Visiting Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site is a great way to explore the history of South Carolina. Located in Charleston, just a short drive outside the historic center, this state-run historic site was the birthplace of South Carolina .

Step back in time and discover the earliest colonial history of South Carolina. Immerse yourself in hands-on exhibits inside the Visitor Center , chat with knowledgeable staff members, or take a self-guided audio tour to learn even more.

You can step aboard the Adventure , which is the only 17th-century replica sailing ship in Charleston. Explore the Animal Forest natural habitat zoo to catch a glimpse of otters, bears, bison, and more. Stroll through 80 acres of beautiful gardens that include a live oak alleyway and Legare Waring House.

TIP: Keep track of all of your important travel details with a digital travel planner like this .

McLeod Plantation Historic Site

A few miles south of Charles Towne State Historic Site is the McLeod Plantation Historic Site , a Charleston County Park.

McLeod Plantation Historic Site is a 37-acre heritage site , kept intact in honor of its cultural and historical value. They have a riverside outdoor pavilion, an impressive “oak allée,” and the McLeod Oak thought to be more than 600 years old.

Your paid admission includes an interpretive guided tour (offered several times throughout the day) or use the app for an audio self-guided tour.

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Folly Beach

If you’re looking for a beach break on your way to Savannah from Charleston (or vice versa), take the 20-minute drive from Charleston to Folly Beach . This beach is located on Folly Island, a 12-square-mile Charleston barrier island featuring six miles of perfect beach.

Folly is a go-to destination for many people who appreciate outdoor activities such as swimming, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. It’s the perfect spot to soak up some sun while enjoying nature or go paddling on the Folly River .

Visitors may be lucky enough to spot loggerhead turtles, bald eagles, pelicans, and even dolphins. Enjoy Folly Beach County Park on the west end of the island or peruse Center Street, filled with eateries, surf shops, and souvenir stores.

Supposedly the oldest living thing east of the Mississippi River, Angel Oak can be found about 20 minutes outside of Charleston on Johns Island. Estimates of its age vary wildly. Regardless, it may sound very simple, but this tree is worth a stop.

The Angel Oak is really a beautiful place. It kind of has to be seen to be believed. Each year, it attracts approximately 400,000 visitors who marvel at its grandeur.

Standing 65 feet high with a circumference of 25.5 feet, it covers an area of 17,000 square feet in its shade.

The park is open seven days a week (closed on holidays) and is free to enter and take as many photos as you like. Tripods are not allowed on or around the tree. 

Charleston Tea Garden

Charleston Tea Garden is one of the most popular Charleston day trips and will delight anyone, especially tea lovers.

Located on Wadmalaw Island, the garden produces the only brand of tea made with 100% American-grown tea. The United States’ one-and-only tea garden still in operation provides mesmerizing views of thousands upon thousands of tea plants.

The free factory tour lets you see the equipment and the entire production line, with videos illustrating the various tea-making processes at America’s only tea factory.

After the factory tour, take a paid trolley ride (30-40 minutes) among the many acres of tea bushes, including a stop at the marvelous greenhouse . The greenhouse is where tiny new tea bushes are born and prepared for planting in the garden.

Edisto Island

Yes, there are a lot of islands around Charleston, and another charming island worth visiting if you’re spending time in the area is Edisto Island. 

Edisto Island is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxed vibe and is a treasure trove of beach, water, and island activities. Visitors enjoy kayaking, biking, beach combing, bird watching, playing golf, and more.

And don’t miss Botany Bay Plantation or Edisto Beach State Park with its Environmental Learning Center. It’s one of four oceanfront state parks in South Carolina.

Reconstruction Era National Historical Park

Reconstruction Era National Historical Park offers visitors insight into this important period in American history, particularly through the lens of the people of South Carolina’s Beaufort County.

In November 1861, the U.S. Army won the Battle at Port Royal Sound, bringing Beaufort County under Union control. When plantation owners abandoned their lucrative cotton and rice plantations, more than 10,000 enslaved people were left behind.

In an attempt to help emancipated slaves become economically independent, President Lincoln’s administration initiated the Port Royal Experiment in Beaufort County. And so, Reconstruction was born.

The park consists of four locations:

• Beaufort National Historic Landmark District (and park Visitor Center)
• Camp Saxton
• Brick Baptist Church (active congregation to typically not open for visitors)
• Penn Center

Hunting Island State Park

Located on the coast of South Carolina, Hunting Island State Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers. It’s the state’s most popular state park , with more than one million visitors each year.

With its five miles of pristine beach , lush maritime forest, and salt marshes full of wildlife, it’s no wonder that this park is one of the most popular in the state.

Visitors can enjoy activities such as kayaking, biking, fishing, and birdwatching while exploring the natural beauty of Hunting Island State Park. The park also offers hiking/walking trails, camping opportunities, and more.

Hilton Head Island

My top pick for a stop between Charleston and Savannah is the beautiful Hilton Head Island, where you can enjoy the perfect beaches and world-class golf courses.

Hilton Head Island is one of the best places in the U.S. to enjoy a family beach vacation. You can participate in activities like swimming, beach volleyball, boat cruises, and deep-sea fishing. Families can enjoy biking, miniature golf, great dining options, and more.

Try a guided kayak nature tour of Hilton Head .

Or enjoy a dolphin boat cruise as you try to spot dolphins and other ocean life.

Stroll through Harbour Town and go to the top of the Harbour Town Lighthouse for stunning views of Hilton Head Island.

If you were going to make one overnight stop between Charleston and Savannah, this is where I would recommend you stop. It’s a great place to stay, and it makes a wonderful weekend trip from Savannah .

We loved our stay at the Marriott Hilton Head Resort & Spa , which is right on the beach. So you’ll want to book a room with a balcony. We think it’s definitely worth the extra money. And they have a great pool deck area too.

For a luxurious treat, check out the Inn and Club at Harbour Town . It was named one of the Top 10 Hotels in the U.S.A. for 2021 by U.S. News and World Report.

For a more budget-friendly option, try Home2 Suites by Hilton , which offers free breakfast.

Savannah National Wildlife Refuge

The Savannah National Wildlife Refuge is a paradise for nature lovers. Spanning over 29,000 acres of protected wetlands and forests along the Savannah River Basin, this refuge provides critical habitat for hundreds of species of birds and other wildlife.

Established in 1927, the refuge was designed to be a safe haven for migratory birds who were seeking shelter during their winter journey, most notably waterfowl. There are tidal freshwater marshlands and bottomland hardwood forests that create an ideal ecosystem for species to thrive.  

Visitors can explore the refuge’s many trails on foot or by bicycle to observe its diverse ecosystems up close. There are also opportunities to go birdwatching or fishing in one of the many freshwater ponds within the refuge.

With an abundance of activities available year-round—from kayaking to taking beautiful photographs of the native wildlife—there’s something for everyone here.

Fort Pulaski National Monument

Fort Pulaski National Monument stands on Cockspur Island and is managed by the National Park Service. Constructed to secure Savannah’s harbor shortly before the outbreak of the American Civil War in 1861, this fort was once an important line of defense.

Millions of bricks were used to construct the fortified walls of Fort Pulaski, yet its defenses quickly became obsolete when the Union Army utilized it for testing their new rifled cannons.

The Union Army’s siege of Fort Pulaski concluded within 48 hours, and soon after the fort became a prison-of-war camp.

Fort Pulaski National Monument encompasses the fort itself, as well as most of Cockspur Island and McQueens Island. Take a stroll around the grounds, enjoy bird watching, or cast your fishing line into the Savannah River. Be sure to stop at the Visitor Center. There you can see displays that detail both the construction of Fort Pulaski and also its role in April 1862’s Battle for Fort Pulaski.  

Tybee Island

Tybee Island is absolutely one of the most popular places to visit around the Savannah area. Hands down. And has been since the late 19th century. It’s definitely one of the top day trips from Savannah .

Enjoy three miles of beautiful beaches , none of them exactly alike. Choose from North Beach, South Beach. Back River, Little Tybee, or Mid Beach. Or visit all of them! Some other top attractions and activities for visitors include… 

• climbing to the top of Georgia’s oldest and tallest lighthouses
• eating ice cream or the other great food on the island
• taking a boat tour
• sea kayaking
• bird watching

Don’t have time to visit both Charleston and Savannah, but not sure which to choose? Read Charleston vs. Savannah: Which to visit?

Other things to do in the Charleston area

Of course, there are a lot of amazing things to do in and around Charleston, South Carolina, that aren’t necessarily on the way to Savannah, Georgia.

These are some of the most popular tours and activities in the historic downtown area of Charleston and the surrounding region:

Historical Downtown Tour by Horse-drawn Carriage

Historical Walking Tour of Charleston

Harbor History Day-Time or Sunset Cruise

Take the ferry to Fort Sumter National Monument and explore the fort

Enjoy transportation to Magnolia Plantation

Tour Boone Hall Plantation in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina

Where to Stay in Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston has a lot of wonderful places to stay. Here are a few top-rated options: 

Andrew Pinckney Inn —This lovely 41-room boutique hotel is only a few blocks from the popular Charleston City Market.

The Dewberry —Enjoy luxurious accommodations bordering Marion Square and near the top fine dining and shopping in the city (on King Street).

Budget-friendly Option: Doubletree Mount Pleasant — we had a lovely and budget-friendly stay at this hotel which was just a few minutes outside Charleston. It’s also close to two awesome breakfast places: Vicious Biscuit and Page’s Okra Grill.   

Other things to do in the Savannah area

Savannah and the area around it are full of wonderful things to do. Here are a few of the most popular tours and activities in and around Savannah’s historic district.

Try the hugely popular Savannah Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tour

Savannah Culinary & Cultural Walking Food Tour

Off-The-Beaten-Path Secret East Side Historic Walking Food Tour

Tour Wormsloe Plantation and Bonaventure Cemetery

Genteel and Bard Savannah Walking History Tour (highly recommended and likely to sell out!)

Where to stay in Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is full of wonderful hotels and inns. Here are a few highly rated options:

The Marshall House is one of the most popular places to stay in Savannah. It’s in the heart of the historic area and includes an onsite restaurant.

The Eliza Thompson House is an inn rich in history that’s situated near Forsyth Park and its well-known fountain.

If you’re looking for a great view of both the historic Savannah Riverfront and the boats that travel along it, look no further than Marriott Savannah Riverfront . We loved the location , just steps from the famous Waving Girl Statue.

Holiday Inn Express Savannah – Historic District offers comfortable and affordable rooms just steps from historic River Street.

The bottom line

Savannah, Georgia, and Charleston, South Carolina, are two of the most popular travel destinations in the entire southeastern United States. But you don’t need to keep your explorations just within the limits of those two cities. There are plenty of activities between the two.

From beach days on Tybee Island or Hilton Head Island to exploring Fort Pulaski National Monument or Savannah National Wildlife Refuge, there is something for everyone in this area.

Whether you’re just looking for one interesting spot to stop along the way or you’re planning to make an epic road trip out of it, there are so many amazing things to do.

What’s your favorite thing to do between Savannah and Charleston?

More articles about Savannah and Charleston

• Savannah vs. Charleston: Which should you visit?
• Charleston and Savannah road trip itinerary
• Perfect weekend getaways from Savannah, Georgia
• An ideal weekend in Charleston
• How to spend one day in Charleston
• How to spend a weekend in Savannah
• One day in Savannah: the perfect itinerary
• Weekend getaways from Charleston

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Darcy Vierow is a busy professional and travel planning expert with years of experience maximizing travel with limited time and on a less-than-average salary. Her tips have been published by Forbes, MSN.com, Yahoo! News, Yahoo! Finance, Aol, Newsbreak and GOBankingRates. Read more about Darcy Vierow .

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Amazing 1 Day Savannah To Charleston Road Trip Itinerary!

Published: April 15, 2021

Updated: September 12, 2023

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Savannah, Georgia, and Charleston, South Carolina are two of the most popular travel destinations in the southeastern United States, and they just so happen to be neighbors! In this post, I’ll walk you through an amazing Savannah to Charleston road trip itinerary packed with interesting stops and sights!

About Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is one of the oldest cities in the southern USA and the fifth largest city in Georgia. With famous historic squares, delicious southern cuisine, and a lively waterfront, it’s no wonder Savannah, Georgia attracts nearly 15 million visitors every year .

Savannah is a popular weekend getaway destination and it even hosts one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the USA. It also makes an amazing jumping-off point for exploring attractions along the Georgia and South Carolina coast.

About Charleston, South Carolina

Head north from Savannah and you’ll soon hit Charleston, South Carolina, another historical city where you can dine, shop, and take in the fresh sea air. After walking around the colorful, cobblestone streets of Charleston, it isn’t hard to understand why this city frequently earns a spot as one of the best places to visit in the USA.

How Far Is Savannah From Charleston

Savannah and Charleston are just over 100 miles apart. The Savannah to Charleston drive time takes about two hours if you drive straight through with no detours.

Because these two cities are fairly close, they make a great one-day road trip since you’ll have plenty of time to explore attractions along the way.

Related Post: 10 Day Road Trip From Florida to Georgia

Savannah To Charleston Road Trip Itinerary

Driving from Savannah to Charleston is pretty straightforward. If you’re starting in Savannah, you’ll take I-95 North to US-17 North. But along the way, there are some interesting stops that are worth a visit.

If you make all the stops on the list below, your drive time works out to be around five hours in total. Of course, you’ll want to allot more time to get out and walk around at each destination, and you can always remove stops if needed.

Need to make this a Charleston To Savannah Road Trip? No problem, just stop by each attraction in reverse order!

Savannah, Georgia

This Savannah to Charleston road trip itinerary has a pretty spectacular starting point, so you should spend time exploring Savannah before you hit the road.

I’d recommend at least a day in Savannah before beginning the drive to visit attractions like Forsyth Park, the Bonaventure Cemetery, and the River Street waterfront area.

Take a haunted ghost walking tour , enjoy the city skyline on a riverboat lunch cruise , or sample local delicacies on a Savannah food tour !

If you’re looking for a memorable place to stay the night before your Savannah to Charleston road trip, check out The Marshall House , a boutique hotel in the historic district that’s rumored to be haunted!

Related Post: 14 Best Places To Stay In Savannah, Georgia

Savannah National Wildlife Refuge

Even though the drive from Savannah, GA to Charleston, SC is only a few hours, you’ll want to get an early start to the day so you have plenty of time to see sights along the way.

Just a 15-minute drive north of Savannah, you’ll find the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge . This 30,000-acre wildlife refuge is home to birds, alligators, and other marsh-dwelling flora and fauna.

You could easily spend an entire day hiking, biking, and kayaking at this nature-lovers paradise, but for this itinerary, we’re just going to visit Laurel Hill Wildlife Drive.

The Laurel Hill Wildlife Drive is a scenic four-mile road through the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge. Along this road, you can spot wildlife from your car or one of many lookout points.

UPDATE: As of September 2020, the Laurel Hill Wildlife Drive and many other areas around the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge are closed for maintenance. Please check their website before visiting for the latest information.

St. Helena Island, South Carolina

Next, we’ll head about an hour northeast to St. Helena Island, South Carolina. St. Helena Island is the perfect place to immerse yourself in natural beauty and learn about Gullah culture.

In the center of the island, surrounded by Spanish moss-draped oak trees, you’ll find the Penn Center. The Penn Center was one of the first schools in the country where formerly enslaved individuals could receive an education.

The center was visited by Martin Luther King, Jr. in the 1960s and continues to work toward preserving and celebrating Gullah culture to this day. Visitors can learn about African American history, art, and culture on self-guided tours and group tours.

Another way you can experience this important island is through a guided tour by Gullah-n-Geechie Mahn tours . On your two-hour St. Helena tour, your guide will take you to several historical sites around the island including The Penn Center and The Chapel of Ease while teaching you all about Gullah culture.

Hunting Island State Park, South Carolina

From St. Helena, continue driving one island further and you’ll arrive at Hunting Island State Park. This State Park is known for having five miles of amazing beaches and a lighthouse that dates back to the 19th century.

You can even climb the lighthouse stairs for a panoramic view of the surrounding islands and wetlands, just make sure to book an appointment and bring $2 per person for your admission fee!

After visiting the lighthouse, you can spend time exploring the beach or head down to Hunting Island State Park Nature Center where you can learn about local wildlife.

Lunch in Beauford South Carolina

By now, you’ve probably worked up an appetite! Backtrack through Hunting Island and St. Helena Island to the coastal town of Beauford, South Carolina. Here, there are tons of restaurants where you can try the Lowcountry cuisine this area is famous for.

• Check out Plums for fresh local cuisine in a casual waterfront setting.
• For authentic Southern BBQ on the water, visit Q on Bay.
• Head to the Lowcountry Produce Market and Cafe to grab a quick bite on the road.

Old Sheldon Church Ruins

Next, we’re heading inland to the Old Sheldon Church Ruins. Sheldon Church dates back to the mid-1700s. It was burned down during the Revolutionary War and rebuilt many years later. It’s believed that the church was burned again during the Civil War but this time, it wasn’t rebuilt.

Today, the ruins are hauntingly beautiful and surrounded by a lush landscape. The property is located right off Old Sheldon Church Road and has informational markers as well as shaded seating areas to enjoy the view.

You can read more about the history of the Sheldon Church Ruins here.

Edisto Beach, South Carolina

From the Old Sheldon Church Ruins, head northeast to Edisto Island. Edisto is a peaceful vacation island south of Charleston that’s perfect for a bit of relaxation. Head to Edisto Beach State Park to stretch your legs on one of the many hiking paths or visit the environmental education center to learn more about the island.

If you happen to be in town during one of the local fishing tournaments, make sure to pass by the Edisto Marina to see the catch of the day.

Folly Beach, South Carolina

The last stop on this Savannah to Charleston road trip is Folly Beach, South Carolina. Folly Beach is just outside of Charleston and is one of the most popular Charleston day trip destinations for locals and visitors alike.

Take a stroll along the Folly Beach fishing pier or spend some time meandering through the beachy downtown neighborhoods. If you have time, rent a paddleboard or a kayak for a chance to see ocean life like turtles and dolphins.

For a nice dinner with a sunset view, head to Blu. This oceanfront restaurant is just a few steps from the Folly Beach fishing pier and serves fresh seafood and other local specialties.

After you’ve had your fun in the sun, head north about 20 minutes and you’ll be in the heart of Charleston.

Charleston, South Carolina

You may have reached your destination, but the adventure isn’t over! Charleston has tons of things to see and it’s a great destination to explore for a few days.

You won’t want to miss walking along the waterfront park (see if you can find the pineapple fountain!) or strolling past one of Charleston’s most colorful streets, Rainbow Row .

Hop aboard a historic harbor cruise for a guided tour of the city, grab a bite at one of the best restaurants in Charleston , or try some of the best local flavors on a guided food tour.

After dark, head to Stars Rooftop Bar for 360-degree views of the Charleston city skyline.

Need a place to stay after a long day of sightseeing? Check out this post with 14 amazing places to stay in Charleston, SC !

Have More Time For Your Savannah GA to Charleston SC Road Trip?

There is so much to see on any Savannah, GA to Charleston, SC road trip! Because the Georgia and South Carolina coastal areas are relatively compact, you’ll be able to experience a lot in just one day.

But if you have more time, it’s definitely worth slowing down and digging deeper into this fascinating region.

If possible, I’d recommend at least one full day in both Savannah and Charleston. This will give you time to see some highlights in both cities without feeling rushed.

If you’d like to break up the road trip, you can stop for the night in Beaufort, SC. Beauford has a quaint downtown area and an incredible waterfront where you enjoy music and sunset views.

You can also add these additional stops if you have more time in the Georgia and South Carolina coastal islands.

• Tybee Island: Beach-lovers paradise just east of Savannah
• Hilton Head Island: Great beaches, golf, and nightlife on the border between Georgia and South Carolina
• Kiawah Island: Visit Beachwalker Park and the Marsh View Tower lookout point just south of Charleston

Final Thoughts: Amazing Savannah To Charleston Road Trip

Without a doubt, there are some beautiful places to see on the drive from Savannah to Charleston. There are endless gems to discover along the way, so pack up your car snacks and turn up the music for a memorable Savannah to Charleston road trip adventure!

Related Posts:

• 9 Best Day Trips From Savannah, Georgia
• 14 Best Places To Stay in Savannah, Georgia
• Weekend in Charleston Itinerary and Travel Guide
• 14 Best Places To Stay in Charleston, South Carolina
• 13 Things to do in Columbia, South Carolina
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Hi! I'm Nic. Let's chat about remote work and ways to incorporate more travel into your life. Whether you're here to find an online job or need some tips for planning your next trip, I've got you covered! About me

4 thoughts on “Amazing 1 Day Savannah To Charleston Road Trip Itinerary!”

I loved reading about your Savannah To Charleston Road Trip. Your descriptions really made it come alive for me. Happy travels!

Great blog! I think 1 day is such a short window to do all the things in Savannah! This weekend, I’m definitely following the stuff I found here and on the site https://www.visitsavannah.com/events and surely I will have a great time!

Great information, we will be driving to Savannah from Ringgold Georgia, April 10 be there 3 nights and then travel to Charleston SC for 3 nights, then drive back to Ringgold. Then fly back home. Is there something you recommend we see from Charleston to Ringgold? The same goes from Ringgold to Savannah .

Thanks for informative blog

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Savannah vs Charleston: which Southern gem to visit in 2022

Feb 4, 2022 • 9 min read

The proximity and similar historic character of Charleston, South Carolina, and Savannah, Georgia, have led to many comparisons © Darryl Brooks / Shutterstock

It’s hard to find two more beautiful cities in the USA than Savannah , Georgia, and Charleston , South Carolina.

The proximity – roughly two hours apart by car – and similar historic character of these popular Southern gems have led to many comparisons, so in a friendly spirit of competition, let's see how the two cities stack up.

Best city for food, drinks and nightlife

The food scene in Charleston is clearly at the top of its game, but don’t sleep on Savannah, especially if you like to drink outside.

Charleston is one of the best cities in the South for dining

Charleston is rightly known as one of the top food destinations in the country, and a recent influx of new residents has cultivated a more cosmopolitan flair that pairs well with traditional South Carolina Lowcountry cooking. Many of the city’s top restaurants are located inside historic homes and structures, including the highly acclaimed Husk , which has been frequented by a number of celebrities including the late chef and travel writer Anthony Bourdain and Charleston local Bill Murray. For al fresco dining in a romantic historic courtyard, 82 Queen is a must-stop. Its award-winning She Crab soup recipe dates back to the 1700s.

After dinner, grab a drink inside a beautiful repurposed church at 5Church and, lest you think all of Charleston is high-end dining, venture off the beaten path to the friendly dive bar Recovery Room for cheap beer and a laid-back attitude. Meanwhile, Charleston’s newly bustling Upper King Design District is the place to be for a hip collegiate and young professional scene. The area is packed with cool restaurants and bars, including the dark and seductive Cocktail Club . In North Charleston, newly opened Beyond Distilling is making headlines by mixing top-shelf spirits with job opportunities for adults with disabilities.

Savannah's food scene is no slouch, but its drinks and nightlife can't be beat

While lesser known than its northern neighbor's, Savannah’s food scene has also turned up the heat in recent years, thanks in part to the 2014 opening of The Grey inside a former Greyhound bus station. This perennially buzzing restaurant serves globally inspired modern Southern dishes alongside some of the finest drinks in the city – which, in Savannah, is certainly saying something. The city is a drinker’s paradise thanks to its high concentration of downtown bars and the fact that you can legally drink in the street in the downtown historic district, à la New Orleans. These relaxed rules contribute to a festive party atmosphere year round, particularly in the River Street area near the Savannah River, which is reminiscent of New Orlean's Bourbon Street. With a large number of Irish residents and Irish bars, Savannah hosts one of the largest and most vibrant St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the country.

For a city of its size, Savannah boasts an excellent live music scene, which truly comes to life during the annual Savannah Stopover Music Festival in spring. It's a smaller-scale South by Southwest-style festival, with indie bands taking over local venues, such as intimate late-night haunt The Jinx and the beautiful open-air stage at Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum . But don’t think it’s all loud music and partying here: Savannah also offers plenty of opportunities for quieter meals at romantic eateries dripping with Southern hospitality. Try Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room and the Olde Pink House , inside an elegant 18th-century mansion. Visit either and you’ll see why Savannah’s nickname of "The Hostess City of the South" is well deserved.

The winner: Charleston for food, Savannah for drinks and nightlife.

Best city for architecture, attractions and history

Two of the most visually stunning cities in the USA , Charleston and Savannah are also magnets for history lovers, each offering some of the most well-preserved and storied districts in the country.

Charleston's history runs deep

Established in 1670,  Charleston is one of the oldest cities in the USA, and history is everywhere you look. The downtown Charleston Historic District is blessed with a gorgeous assembly of significant sites and homes, most notably in the district’s colorful French Quarter and along its Instagrammable Rainbow Row , a stretch of 13 brightly painted homes. A visit to the  Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon , a basement prison used during the Revolutionary War, is worth your time, and the  Old Slave Mart Museum , where white landowners bought enslaved Black people at auction, is a harrowing look into the city's past. Opening in the spring of 2022, the International African American Museum , located on Gadsden's Wharf where millions of enslaved Africans first landed after being brought across the Atlantic, is certain to add to that story.

Continue your understanding of the history of Charleston at  The Battery , a fortified seawall lined with picturesque homes on one side and the scenic Cooper River on the other. Charleston is nicknamed "The Holy City" because of its large number of churches, with the 18th-century, seemingly airbrushed St. Michael’s Church being one of its most visually arresting. In North Charleston, the Hunley Museum has reopened with a new multimedia presentation depicting the creation and disappearance of the HL Hunley , a Confederate submarine that was found off North Carolina's coast in 1995.

No historic excursion in Charleston is complete without taking a 30-minute ferry ride to Fort Sumter National Monument , where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Today you can wander through the brick rubble and old cannons of the fort, and National Park Service employees give informative talks on the site's history.

14 best free things to do in Charleston

Savannah's neighborhoods and architecture are Gothic eye candy

One of the country's largest historic neighborhoods, downtown Savannah's Historic District is a stunning sight to behold. What makes this area so unique is the presence of 22 gorgeous park-like public squares, which are laid out on an organized grid across the district. An easy 20-minute walk along one of Savannah ’s main pedestrian-friendly thoroughfares from north to south, such as Bull Street, will take you through the heart of several of these squares, many of which are anchored by a statue or historical monument and surrounded by shady oak trees. Have a seat on a bench to admire the surroundings and to listen to birdsong and local street performers.

Most squares also sit adjacent to a church and a number of historic homes, many of which are open for visitors to tour, such as the opulent Green-Meldrim House , General Sherman’s headquarters during the Civil War. Chippewa Square is where Tom Hanks famously waited for the bus in the movie  Forrest Gump, and the square is adjacent to the iconic Savannah Theatre , one of the USA's oldest theaters still in operation. Although horse-drawn carriages and tourist trolleys regularly wind their way around the squares, these streets are best explored on your own two feet. Snap a photo of the massive Cathedral of St. John the Baptist or explore the above-ground tombs of Colonial Park Cemetery , established in 1750 and housing more than 9000 graves.

When to visit Savannah

The winner: Savannah for architecture, Charleston for attractions and history.

Best city for parks, beaches and islands

While Savannah and Charleston are both packed with gorgeous public parks, explore further afield to discover the two cities' under-the-radar beaches and islands.

Charleston's proximity to the ocean make it a beach-lover's dream

The palmetto trees and sandy beaches near Charleston mean that parts of the city cultivate a beach-resort feel, especially in areas near the Charleston Harbor. Here you’ll find the scenic Waterfront Park and its popular pineapple fountain photo-op along with wide-open views across the Cooper River. White Point Garden at the southern end of the Charleston peninsula near the Battery is the city’s most beautiful park, but beaches are where Charleston really shines.

The city's most popular is Folly Beach , where you can sip drinks on the pier or wander down the mostly empty beach to "The Edge of America" on the eastern tip of Folly Island. Sullivan’s Island is a more residential stretch of beach, while Bowen Island is an out-of-the-way marshland home to the iconic no-frills fish shack Bowens Island Restaurant , where the views are almost as good as the fried shrimp platter.

Savannah's parks are loaded with shady spots and wildlife

Dripping with Spanish moss to help conjure that classic Midnight In the Garden of Good and Evil aesthetic for which the city has traditionally been known, Savannah’s parks are nothing short of jaw-dropping. In addition to the city's public squares, Forsyth Park on the southern end of the historic district is a picture-perfect, 30-acre wonderland ideal for sitting on a shady bench and taking in the scenery after a leisurely stroll though the squares.

Alligators, manatees and bald eagles can be found north of town in the sprawling Savannah National Wildlife Refuge , while about 30 minutes to the east by car is the community of Tybee Beach on laid-back Tybee Island, with its historic lighthouse and public pier . If you’re looking for something more remote, venture over the South Carolina border by boat to Daufuskie Island to learn about the Gullah, the descendants of enslaved Africans who were brought to the island and forced to work on cotton, indigo and rice plantations.

The winner: Charleston for beaches and islands, Savannah for parks.

Best city for accommodations, value and walkability

You’ll find plenty of comfort and all types of accommodations in both Charleston and Savannah, but you’ll need to factor in value and walkability when choosing which city is best for you.

Charleston has great upscale options but you might need a car

There’s no shortage of upscale accommodations in Charleston. The Belmond Charleston Place is centrally located and wonderfully chic, with a rooftop pool and bar offering a bird’s-eye view of the action along the main drag of King Street. A more affordable and excellent alternative offering comfortable waterfront views and a small private beach is Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina , located across the river on a quiet patch of land near Patriot's Point Naval and Maritime Museum , about 15 minutes by car from downtown.

Downtown Charleston is very walkable, and many visitors never leave the historic district. But to get a fuller sense of the city and to explore the hip Upper King Design District or the nearby beaches and islands, transport is necessary. Taxis and Uber operate in Charleston, so it's not necessary to rent a car.

Savannah's best accommodation is very walkable

The ultra-cool Perry Lane Hotel has been one of the hottest spots in Savannah since it opened in 2018. It caters to an upscale, hip crowd with its swanky rooftop pool and bar. Equally fashionable and more affordable is the Andaz Savannah , which is centrally located, across the street from the happening Ellis Square. The public square is where you’ll encounter free live music and revelers with "to-go cups" packing the outdoor bars and restaurants most weekends. One of Savannah’s main assets is its walkability, as everything most travelers need – aside from a day trip to Tybee Beach – is located within the downtown historic district, making a car unnecessary.

Top 6 day trips from Savannah

The winner: Savannah for value and walkability, Charleston for accommodations.

You might also like: Offbeat boozing: 8 of the best cities for bar crawls Savannah for newcomers Best US destinations for winter sun

Jay Gentile traveled to Charleston and Savannah with assistance from Explore Charleston and Visit Savannah . Lonely Planet contributors do not accept freebies in exchange for positive coverage.

This article was first published May 2019 and updated February 2022

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Top Ten Natural Wonders to See Between Charleston and Savannah

Just south of Charleston and north of Savannah, a natural paradise awaits your visit! The historic Kings Highway 17 travels through the beautiful SC Lowcountry and these protected treasures.

The area that lies between Charleston and Savannah is a nature lover’s paradise. Here you will find wildlife management areas, nature trails, church ruins and a welcome center located in a historic house.

1. Ernest F. Hollings ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge

The Ernest F. Hollings ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge is located off Hwy 17, on Hwy 174 towards Edisto Island. The refuge is home to a vast array of waterfowl, and the Antebellum Oak Grove Plantation House.

A walk behind the house leads visitors to the former rice fields. Rows, dikes, trunks, and gates are still visible today. The paths are marked and meander around the rice fields and wooded areas. Make sure to bring your camera and be on the lookout for wildlife. For more information visit https://southcarolinalowcountry.com/ernest-f-hollings-ace-basin-national-wildlife-refuge/ .

2. Botany Bay Wildlife Management Area

A venture further down Hwy 174 onto Edisto Island will bring you to the wildlife management area of Botany Bay Plantation. This is one of the most unique destinations on Edisto Island. The 4.000+ acre property boasts historical buildings, maritime forest, a boneyard beach and freshwater ponds. The property is covered in pine, palm and live oak trees, dripping with Spanish moss. Don’t be surprised to see deer, alligators, shore birds, crabs, raccoons and many other maritime forest creatures.

There are two sites listed on the register of historic places at Botany Bay. A set of three surviving 1840s outbuildings and the prehistoric Fig Island Shell Ring can be seen on the property. Explore the plantation house ruins, walk the forest trails, or stroll the beach on this South Carolina controlled wildlife management area. Botany Bay Wildlife Management Area is a great place to spend a day. Bring a picnic, beach chairs and kayaks. Explore the wonders of the South Carolina Lowcountry! For more information visit https://southcarolinalowcountry.com/edisto-islands-botany-bay/ .

3. Edisto Nature Trail

Jacksonboro is the perfect spot to get out and stretch your legs on the Edisto Nature Trail. The trail is located on Highway 17, adjacent to the Edisto River. Jacksonboro is in the area known as the ACE Basin. This low-lying part of the state is full of former rice plantations with beautiful marsh and river views, and teaming with wildlife.

The boardwalk trail meanders through the woods that change from pineland and maritime forests to cypress and tupelo swamp. Before and after the Revolutionary War, this area was rich in rice production. A 15-minute walk along the boardwalk will take you to a dock overlooking the Edisto River. You can also press on and take the 1.5-mile loop trail that can be completed in about an hour. It will transport you from the wetlands to higher upland forest area. Make sure to wear appropriate shoes. Be sure to bring bug spray if you come in the spring or summer. For more information visit https://southcarolinalowcountry.com/hiking-the-edisto-nature-trail/ .

4. Bear Island Wildlife Management Area

Bear Island Wildlife Management Area is located off Hwy 17 in the Green Pond area. This wildlife management area is managed to provide quality habitat for wintering waterfowl. It’s a great spot to view bald eagles, wood storks and roseate spoonbills.

Drive through this area for many opportunities to spot wildlife. The forest, marsh and river views are beautiful. Bear Island is located between the Asheepoo and South Edisto Rivers. From Hwy 17, turn onto Bennett’s Point Road and follow for 13 miles. The entrance is on TiTi Road. (843)844-8957. For more information visit https://southcarolinalowcountry.com/explore-sc-lowcouontry-wildlife-preserves-and-nature-trails/ .

5. Donnelley Wildlife Management Area

Donnelley Wildlife Management Area is a favorite spot for tourists and locals alike. It is located on Hwy 17 in Green Pond (between Yemassee and Jacksonboro) in the heart of the ACE Basin. This is a great place to glimpse Lowcountry nature at its finest. The property features a historic rice field system, which is now managed to attract waterfowl and migratory birds. The drive is pleasantly lined with beautiful old live oaks.

The driving tour covers about 11 miles and should take from an hour to half a day, depending on how many stops you make. The marked stops on the map serve simply as suggestions; feel free to stop anywhere along the way (although please park on the shoulder) and walk off the road at any point to get a closer look at wildlife or native plants. Take extra precautions when viewing alligators, especially during the spring mating season. For more information visit https://southcarolinalowcountry.com/colleton-countys-donnelley-wildlife-management-area/ .

6. Old Sheldon Church Ruins

A simple turn off Hwy 17 onto Old Sheldon Church Road is like stepping back in time. Travel up the road for about two miles and see the church ruins on the right. Parking is located across the street. This church was burned during the Revolutionary War, rebuilt, and then destroyed again during the Civil War.

Located just past the turn to Beaufort off Hwy 17, Sheldon Church has laid in ruin for more than 140 years. Its gable roof, pediment, windows & interior have disappeared, but the classic simplicity of its design still remains. Burned by British troops in 1779 and destroyed again during the Civil War it still serves as a religious center for special observances. For more information visit https://southcarolinalowcountry.com/experience-a-driving-detour-through-yemassee/ .

7. Frampton Plantation House & Visitors Center

Historically speaking, the Frampton House property was part of an original King’s Grant to the Frampton family in the 1700s. The family oversaw the production of 4,000 acres of cotton, rice, and other crops. During the 1865 Campaign of the Carolinas, General Sherman’s troops burned the plantation house and all the farm buildings that stood on this site.

The house was rebuilt in 1868 and the property was probably used for share cropping and tenant farming. Once slated for demolition, the house has been restored and the ground floor is open to the public. The second story holds the offices of the Lowcountry Tourism Commission. Frampton House is open to the public seven days a week, from 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Come see us for all your SC Lowcountry travel questions and insider secrets. For more information visit https://southcarolinalowcountry.com/history-is-preserved-at-frampton-plantation-house/ .

8. Blue Heron Nature Trail

Blue Heron Nature Center & Trail offers relief for the road-weary, and it’s as easy to get to as any rest area. 

This 10-acre green space meanders around a three-acre pond and through forested wetlands. The property also includes a butterfly garden, picnic area, outdoor classroom, observation decks, and a 4,200-square-foot Learning Center. Permanent trail side displays help visitors learn more about the native flora and fauna of Jasper County and the Lowcountry.

The nature trail leads you around the pond with several scenic overlooks along the way. Along the trail you will find benches, swings, and an attractive butterfly garden. In addition to the herons, you may see ducks, turtles, fish, alligators, and other wildlife. Also, several boardwalks take you through the surrounding forested wetlands. Get out of the traffic and spend some time relaxing while you wander around this natural gem. For more information visit https://southcarolinalowcountry.com/lowcountry-activities-ridgeland-i-95-exit-21/ .

9. Sgt. Jasper Park

Hardeeville’s Sgt. Jasper Park is conveniently located off I-95, at Exit 8. After exiting the interstate, point toward Hilton Head and turn left at the first traffic light. Follow the road around until you bump into the park entrance. Trails are located on both sides of the road. Some trails are wheelchair accessible. This is a great place to get off the interstate and stretch your legs. Dogs are welcome here, on a leash. A trail map is available in the park office.

The trails alternate between gravel, boardwalk and natural footing. The views around the lake are pretty, and the trails are relaxing. There are other opportunities at the part as well. There are canoes, kayaks, and a disk golf course. Information can be found in the park office. There’s a playground for the kids and plenty of picnic spots. There is also a covered picnic shelter. Grills can be found at the park as well. The disk golf course is located on the left side of the road. The park also has fishing opportunities. For more information visit https://southcarolinalowcountry.com/spending-time-at-sgt-jasper-park/.

10. Savannah National Wildlife Refuge

The Savannah National Wildlife Refuge offers a variety of opportunities to explore and enjoy the great outdoors from sunrise to sunset every day. You can observe and photograph wildlife. Make the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center your first stop when visiting the refuge. The refuge is located on Hwy 17 between Hardeeville and Savannah.

The Savannah National Wildlife Refuge protects old rice fields & numerous species of wildlife including ducks, birds, deer, & alligators. The 4-mile driving tour is free and open sunrise to sunset. Wildlife viewing is excellent for photography, especially during fall, winter, and spring, along the 4-mile Laurel Hill Wildlife Drive and adjacent hiking/bicycling trails. Many species of wading and marsh birds can also be spotted here throughout the year.

The trails adjacent to the Kingfisher Pond Recreation Area are great for watching woodland songbirds during spring and fall migrations. Summertime brings in an array of species that nest on the refuge. For more information visit https://southcarolinalowcountry.com/savannah-national-wildlife-refuge/ . To explore the hiking trails visit https://southcarolinalowcountry.com/savannah-national-wildlife-refuge-hiking-trails/ .

Visitors could easily spend several days in the area exploring all the natural wonders located between Charleston and Savannah on Highway 17. Pick a few favorites or see them all. The choice is yours. Bring along the camera, a picnic and don’t forget the bug spray!

If you’re looking for a more civilized picnic spot under the oaks, plan to have lunch at Frampton Plantation House. Our ground floor contains a visitors center, complete with restrooms, museum displays and a gift shop. The backyard has picnic tables and plenty of room to stretch your legs. As always, pets are welcome both inside and out! Our friendly staff can answer any questions or give suggestions for their favorite attractions in the area. For more information visit https://southcarolinalowcountry.com/ or call 843-717-3090.

To download a PDF version of the map, complete with addresses and phone numbers click HERE .

See what our visitors love about the SOUTH CAROLINA LOWCOUNTRY

Use the #hashtag #sclowcountry to get your image featured.

The Lowcountry & Resort Islands Region of South Carolina includes the four, southern-most counties in the state, Beaufort, Jasper, Hampton, and Colleton, which are bordered on the east by the Atlantic Ocean and on the west by the Savannah River and the state of Georgia.

The South Carolina Lowcountry Guidebook is filled with many things to see and do in the beautiful Lowcountry of South Carolina. Please fill out the information and we will send you a FREE GUIDE BOOK.

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Ultimate Guide: Top Things To Do Between Charleston And Savannah

Things to do in Charleston

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Welcome to the Glittering Gateway that Separates ‌Savannah from Charleston​

When it comes to traveling ​in the heart of the South, it’s a toss-up. Charleston or Savannah? Both are darling darlings⁣ of the Deep South, brimming with Southern charm, but the journey between⁢ the two is a hidden gem ⁣waiting to be discovered. This ultimate guide brims with top things to do ‌between ​Charleston and Savannah, a scarcely explored but incredibly rich corridor of beauty, adventure ⁢and history. We’re taking a detour off the ⁤beaten path to show you every charming nook and cranny these ‍Southern gems have to offer.

Discovering Southern Charm in Charleston

To start this exciting journey, you’ll want to dive deep into the heart of the Lowcountry with Charleston. This captivating city is a veritable treasure trove of Southern charm with cobblestone streets ,⁢ horse-drawn carriages and historic houses .​ No visit is complete without ⁤a walk along the iconic Battery​ and White Point Garden, where the ​coastal views are as ​breath-taking as the antebellum ‌mansions. Keen‍ history⁤ buffs should make a stop at Fort Sumter, ‍where the first shots of the Civil War rang ​out.

Dining Delights in Charleston

Don’t forget to tickle your taste buds while in Charleston. The city is a foodie’s paradise. Expect to be wooed by enticing⁢ local delicacies such as⁣ Shrimp and ⁣Grits or ​She-crab soup in delightful eateries lining King Street and East Bay Street.

The‌ Unmatched Beauty of the ‍ACE Basin

As you leave Charleston behind, take⁤ the picturesque journey into the ACE Basin. Named for the Ashepoo,⁣ Combahee, ⁢and Edisto rivers that flow into it, it’s one⁤ of the East ​Coast’s ⁣largest undeveloped estuaries. As you ‌explore the expansive wetlands, get up close with the native wildlife. Bird watchers will be ⁣particularly delighted with the plethora of avian life ⁤fluttering about.

Echoes of the Past⁣ at the Old Sheldon Church Ruins

Next⁤ stop ​on our journey are the Old ⁤Sheldon Church Ruins. Standing stark against the Southern skies, these ruins​ offer a‍ hauntingly beautiful glimpse ​into the past. Walk amidst the⁤ pillars that once supported the grand old church,⁣ destroyed twice⁢ in its history and ponder the echoes of the past.

‍ Silhouettes of Spanish Moss in Savanna

As you approach Savannah, the‌ Spanish moss-draped⁣ streets ‌cast inviting shadows that lure you into the city’s heart.​ Savannah, with its vibrant art scene and‌ rich history, offers a panoply of attractions. ‌Wander around the Savannah Historic District, visit the Bonaventure Cemetery, or ‌relax in Forsyth Park with its iconic fountain.

A Sip​ and a ​Bite in Savanna

After soaking in the enchanting ambiance, satisfy your culinary cravings in Savannah. Jones Street ⁣and Broughton Street are ripe‍ with restaurants serving up ​the​ finest Southern cuisine. Don’t miss Mrs. ‍Wilkes’ Dining​ Room for down-home Southern comfort food⁢ and Leopold’s Ice Cream for a sweet ​finish.

Exploring the journey between Savannah ​and Charleston ​offers more than a ⁤simple ⁤A to B trip, ‌but an expedition full of wonder and⁤ adventure. From culinary delights to historic landmarks and natural wonders, the passage is an exploration into the heart of the ⁤south.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which is ⁤better to visit, Savannah or Charleston?

Both Savannah and​ Charleston have their unique charm.‌ Charleston ​offers ‌deep historical resonance‍ and culinary delights. Savannah, on the ‍other hand, thrives with a vibrant arts scene and beautiful cityscapes.

2. How far is Savannah from Charleston?

The distance between Charleston and Savannah ⁣is approximately 108 miles.

3. Is there a shuttle from Savannah to Charleston?

Yes, there are several shuttle and bus services operating between ⁤Savannah and ‌Charleston.

4. What is ​there to do halfway between Savannah and Charleston?

Halfway between‌ Savannah and⁣ Charleston you’ll find the beautiful wetlands of the ⁣ACE Basin and the hauntingly beautiful Old Sheldon Church Ruins. ​

5. Can you take a day trip from Savannah to Charleston?

Yes, it’s‍ entirely possible‌ to take a day trip from either city. However, with so much to explore and enjoy, you⁤ might want to extend your⁣ stay!

Welcome to Amsterdam Vacay! I'm Michael Gonzales, an airline pilot, avid traveler, and the creator behind this blog. My career has taken me around the world, but Amsterdam has captured my heart like no other city. Through Amsterdam Vacay, I share my passion and insider knowledge to help you discover the best of Amsterdam. This blog is a culmination of my adventures and experiences, offering detailed guides, tips, and insights for an authentic Amsterdam experience. My aim is to help you explore Amsterdam beyond the tourist trails, from hidden gems to local favorites, all based on personal exploration and careful research. Off-duty, I pour my travel experiences and love for Amsterdam into this site, striving to make your visit as memorable as mine. Whether it's the charm of the canals, the richness of its history, or the vibrancy of its culture, let Amsterdam Vacay guide you to the heart of this remarkable city. Thank you for joining me on this journey. Let's make your Amsterdam vacation unforgettable! Best, Michael Gonzales

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Charleston, SC to Savannah, GA: Ultimate One Week Road Trip Itinerary

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you buy or book through one of these links, I may earn a small commission .

For your next vacation, are you craving a warm destination in the USA that is both scenic and adventurous? Then a road trip from Charleston, SC to Savannah, GA is the perfect choice!

For the longest time, I craved turning the two-hour drive from Charleston, SC to Savannah, GA into a week-long escapade. I’d previously visited these two gorgeous cities, and had become super curious about the Spanish-moss shrouded scenery that lies in between. Having now just returned, I can attest that the trip was epic and my heart feels warm just thinking about it.

This itinerary assumes it is your first time in both Savannah and Charleston, so has you spending extra time in these two cities. However, if you have visited either Charleston or Savannah before, feel free to reduce your time in either place. You can either add time to Beaufort in between, explore some tiny sea islands, or even take some additional day trips around either city.

Are you ready to get swept off your feet by endless beauty, history and folklore, as well as decadent Lowcountry cuisine? Without further delay, let’s get into this magnificent Charleston, SC to Savannah, GA one week road trip itinerary.

Related: Savannah vs Charleston – Which Coastal Southern City is Better?

The Perfect Charleston, SC to Savannah, GA Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: arrive in charleston.

What you do on your first day will depend on your arrival time and energy level. If you’d like to hit the ground running, here are some things to do in Charleston in the evening:

• Take a carriage ride
• Take a walking tour. You can typically find Charleston pub tours and ghost tours that run in the evening.
• Catch a show at the Dock Street Theatre
• If there’s still daylight, get lost admiring the gorgeous homes south of Broad Street.

Day 2: Explore Charleston

Your first full day in Charleston will include a sightseeing walk, foodie spots, and top historical sites.

Sightseeing Walk

On your first day in Charleston take a sightseeing walk past some of the best sites in the “Holy City”. This easygoing walking tour I created is two miles long and takes about forty minutes to complete without stops.

Below are all the sights you will pass, in order. For more detail on all of them, check out my 3 Days in Charleston Itinerary .

• Charleston City Market
• Philadelphia Alley
• Waterfront Park
• Rainbow Row
• The Battery
• Church Street
• “Four Corners of Law”

Lunch in Charleston

After a morning of walking, take a lunch break. Try Fleet Landing for comforting seafood dishes on the water or Magnolia’s for Southern sophistication.

Explore Charleston’s Historical Sites

After lunch, tour a historical site (or two). Here are a few top choices to consider, which only take about an hour to tour:

• Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon : Built in 1771, this building has served as a custom house, commercial exchange, and more under several governments.
• Powder Magazine : Notable as South Carolina’s oldest government building, where gunpowder was once stored during the 18th century.
• Old Slave Mart : Thought to be the last surviving indoor slave auction space in South Carolina, and often staffed by descendants of former slaves. While the exhibits are mostly posters to read, the information is evocative and moving.

Dine Out in Charleston

End your day by dining at one of Charleston‘s best restaurants. I highly recommend making a reservation in advance for either Circa 1886 , FIG , or Husk .

All serve upscale southern fare, but Circa 1886 and Husk both have more romantic atmospheres . That said, FIG has my favorite food of the three. All three require a reservation at least a month in advance, or it can be near impossible to get a table.

Day 3: More Charleston Adventures

On your second day, dive deeper into Charleston’s history and further explore the awesome foodie scene.

Ferry to Fort Sumter

One of the most popular sightseeing opportunities is taking the ferry to Fort Sumter . First, the ferry ride delivers great views of Charleston‘s waterfront along the Cooper River. Next, you will get to tour Fort Sumter, which is where the first shots of the Civil War were fired.

The ferry and tour of Fort Sumter cost $32 and it takes about two hours and fifteen minutes in total ( book your tickets here ) . During your visit, you’ll receive a history presentation from a park ranger, and have free range to explore the entire site at your leisure.

Shops on King Street

During the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll to peruse the shops on King Street, or Charleston’s main shopping thoroughfare. You’ll see everything from high-end local boutiques to every day stores you’d find at the mall. It can be very difficult to keep your wallet in check, so be prepared!

If you need a bite to eat along the way, I recommend a delightful biscuit snack from either Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit in the City Market or Handy and Hot .

Take a Food Tour

Top off your second day in Charleston with a Lowcountry food tour. I recently did this food tour here , and it was totally unique from similar culinary tours I’ve done. Not only did we try a sampling of the city’s more popular dishes, but we also learned the history of each dish, as well as the origin of its ingredients.

The tour provides plenty of food over two and a half hours, but it does end before dinnertime. If you get hungry again and want a break from heavy food, Basic Kitchen offers hearty clean-eating options.

Book Your Charleston Food Tour Here

Charleston, SC to Beaufort, SC

Day 4: drive to beaufort.

On Wednesday, you will make your drive to Beaufort, SC, which is a charming small town on Port Royal Island about halfway between Charleston, SC and Savannah, GA. Driving to Beaufort takes around an hour and forty minutes. Therefore, you’ll have time for additional exploring in and around Charleston before heading south.

Sightsee Around Charleston

If you haven’t had the chance to check out any of Charleston’s historic house museums, I recommend visiting one before leaving. Here are the top options to consider:

• Aiken-Rhett House
• Nathaniel Russell House
• Heyward-Washington House

Alternatively, you could check out of your hotel and drive to a nearby plantation. There are several choices, including Drayton Hall , Magnolia Plantation , Middleton Place , and Boone Hall .

Having already been to all the above mentioned, I drove out to James Island to explore McLeod Plantation . No joke – this is where I received the best presentation on slavery and reconstruction than I’ve had on any other plantation tour. Don’t expect a plush house and garden overview – the passionate guide tells a complete history of the property and glosses over nothing.

Afterwards, I drove to the Folly Beach Pier for lunch before taking a serene beach walk to view the Morris Island Lighthouse.

Dine in Downtown Beaufort

Upon arrival in Beaufort there will be plenty of little eateries to check out in the historic downtown. I was happy to be meeting up with my friend Anna for this portion of the trip. Our first stop was Lost Local for a delicious variety of tacos and margaritas (especially the spicy margarita).

Day 5: Explore Beaufort

Although Beaufort is a small town compared to Charleston and Savannah, there is plenty to see in just one day. I recommend rising early to visit as many sights as possible.

Spanish Moss Trail

Begin your day in Beaufort with a pleasant walk along the Spanish Moss Trail . But first, coffee.

Stop by Herban Market and Cafe right in town for a latte or other beverage of your choosing. This relaxed, airy space is covered in shiplap and features an array of fresh pastries and espresso drinks. On a nice day, linger on the patio for gorgeous river views.

Now, bring your coffee along for a leisurely walk along the Spanish Moss Trail. This 10-mile route is a also a popular bike path, and is still under expansion. When complete, it will stretch 16 miles from Beaufort to Port Royal.

Explore Beaufort

Next, spend your afternoon taking a walking tour of Beaufort to get a lay of the land and learn the town’s history. If you prefer to wander on your own, there are plenty of adorable shops and eateries to check out at your own pace.

Sightsee Around Beaufort

There are also amazing sights on the outskirts of Beaufort that deserve your time. Although it was raining for our entire stay, we found a small dry window to run out and do some sightseeing.

Here are the sights worth seeing around Beaufort:

• Sheldon church ruins: the brick skeleton of a 19th century church burnt down during the Civil War.
• Frampton Plantation: a former plantation turned visitors center. There are some artifacts inside and beautiful oaks in the yard outside. You can also find the remnants of a dirt fortification made by General Robert E. Lee’s troops during the Civil War.
• Saint Helena Parish Chapel of Ease Ruins: See the remaining walls of a 1740 chapel on St. Helena Island. The chapel once served parishioners who had difficulty traveling to Beaufort’s main church.
• Penn Center: Also on St. Helena Island, the Penn School was one of the first to serve formerly enslaved people.

Dinner in Beaufort

It’s time to select another great dining option in downtown Beaufort. You can’t go wrong with either Hearth Wood Fired Pizza or Old Bull Tavern . While they are both cozy, popular gastropub Old Bull Tavern requires reservations for the best chance of getting a table.

Beaufort, SC to Savannah, GA

Day 6: drive to savannah.

Today you will begin the final leg of your road trip. First, do one last stop around Beaufort before heading south towards Savannah. Before you depart, grab a coffee and light breakfast from Urban Brew + Co .

Hunting Island State Park

Hunting Island State Park is a beautiful nature preserve outside Beaufort with a pristine, remote beach. It’s the perfect spot to catch the sunrise, and you can also view the Hunting Island Lighthouse. I happened to also see my first small alligator in a pond by the visitors center.

Entry to the park costs $8, which is a little higher than most other South Carolina state parks. Thankfully, our Airbnb provided an SC State Park pass for our use that covered the fee.

Sightsee Around Savannah

Continue taking advantage of having a car at your disposal by driving to popular sights around Savannah:

• Tybee Beach : sandy beach located just 30 minutes outside of Savannah. There are plenty of little eateries and cafes nearby. You might prefer to leave Beaufort early and come here instead of Hunting Island, or visit both like I did. Keep in mind that all parking is paid around Tybee, and you will need to buy tickets at machines along the streets.
• Wormsloe Historic Site : where you can find the ruins of an old tabby house that are considered to be the oldest structure in Georgia. The 400 live oaks leading up to the entrance will leave you awestruck, but prepare for a bumpy ride. Additionally, while slavery did once exist at the site, info covering the subject is scant.

Evening in Savannah

Next, drive into Savannah and find parking, which once again, is all paid. Your hotel might have a garage and valet, but this can be super expensive in Savannah. I’ve seen up to $40/day quoted!

That’s one big reason why I stayed at the Eliza Thompson House on picture-perfect Jones Street. I was able to find street parking and paid $15/day for a parking pass from the hotel. The only thing I needed to consider was parking on the correct side of the road to avoid weekly street sweepers.

For dinner on your first night in Savannah, make reservations well in advance for The Olde Pink House . Known for its pink exterior, this restaurant is both historic and elegant. Alternatively, Gallery Espresso is a cozy coffee house that serves sandwiches and salads if you want something simpler.

Day 7: Explore Savannah

Hit the ground running for your one full day in Savannah . Wake up early on a sunny morning to make it to Forsyth park while the sun is rising. Trust me – the fountain looks magical during golden hour.

Next, go get some breakfast. The Eliza Thompson House serves a great breakfast already, so I didn’t veer during my stay. However you could also get a delicious pastry at a local café, like Asher + Rye or have a sit down brunch at Collins Quarter . Collins Quarter conveniently has a location right at Forsyth Park, or you can check out their Bull Street spot nearby.

Bonaventure Cemetery

Take a morning tour of Bonaventure cemetery. Even though I had a car, my tour provided the transportation, so I didn’t have to worry about losing my parking spot.

This particular tour was awesome because the guide did a deep dive into the history of so many different monuments around the cemetery. He is a fifth or sixth generation resident of Savannah and has great insight into the city. Doing a tour of Bonaventure on your own is not a great idea, as the cemetery is huge and there are not informational placards for a self-guided tour.

Book Your Bonaventure Cemetery Tour Here

At noon you will head back to Savannah, which only takes about 15 minutes. At this point, take a short pause for lunch. Some great options include Fox & Fig Cafe for tasty vegan food or Treylor Park for southern food with a fresh, creative twist.

Explore Savannah Historical Sites

Spend the afternoon exploring various historical sights in Savannah . Most are nearby one another and super easy to pop in for a tour at the last minute. I recommend seeing the following in this order:

• 2:00pm – Savannah Cathedral : If there is not service taking place, visit Savannah Cathedral , or The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, to view its gothic interior. It is worth noting that Catholics were banned in Savannah’s original charter, and that this was the town’s first Catholic congregation. The basilica recommends visitors make an optional donation of $3.
• 2:30pm – Congregation Mickve Israel : Tour Congregration Mickve Israel to learn about the 3rd oldest Jewish congregation in the United States and see the oldest Torah in the western hemisphere. You do not need to be Jewish to enjoy this tour. Being somewhat ignorant to the religion’s history myself, I found learning about early Jewish colonists to be completely fascinating. In fact, these individuals were instrumental to Savannah’s initial survival as a colony.
• 4:00pm – House Museum : Your Mickve Israel tour might run over like mine did, so plan to do a Savannah house museum tour at 4pm. One great option is the Owens-Thomas House , which has the best tour through the slave quarters I’ve experienced in Savannah. Additionally, you could tour the Andrew Low House to learn about the family of the woman that went on to start the Girl Scouts of America.

Ice Cream from Leopold’s

After all these activities, take a break for some ice cream from Leopold‘s on Broughton St., which has satisfied many a sweet tooth since 1919. I have high standards for ice cream and was initially skeptical about waiting in a line out the door for a potential tourist trap. Thankfully, I was wrong, as my generous scoop of honey almond & cream was super smooth and rich with flavor.

Savannah Ghost Tour

End you full day in Savannah with dinner and a ghost tour in whichever order you please. This ghost tour I took , which came highly recommend from my Bonaventure Cemetery guide, runs at both 6pm and 8pm.

I loved how the tour was rooted in actual historical events around Savannah, which are the basis for many an urban legend. Plus, you don’t need to put stock into fictional tales to believe the city is creepy or haunted, with many of today’s structures having been built on top of grave sites.

Book Your Savannah Ghost Tour Here

Unfortunately, my hotel was one of our haunted stops on the tour. I experienced no strange happenings, but I did lose sleep thinking about it. Thank goodness for garbage television (aka Love Island) getting me through the night.

Afterwards, dine along the riverfront at Vic’s On the River for one last elegant taste of Southern hospitality. The she crab soup and shrimp and grits are a must.

Departure Day

After an invigorating journey from Charleston, SC to Savannah, GA, it’s time to return home. If you have a rental car and would like to fly out from Savannah, you need to make sure a point to point car rental is allowed.

I personally rented from Budget in downtown Charleston and returned my car to the Charleston airport. This wasn’t too much of a hassle, being that Charleston and Savannah are so close to each other.

I made sure to get an afternoon flight to give myself plenty of time to drive in the morning.

Renting a Car for a Road Trip from Charleston, SC to Savannah, GA

If you are flying into Charleston instead of driving your own car, you will need a rental car to get to Beaufort and then Savannah. As parking in Charleston is quite expensive, I recommend not picking up any rental cars until you absolutely need to.

I personally didn’t pick up my rental car until Day 3, when it was time to drive to Beaufort. I simply saved any sightseeing outside downtown Charleston until that day, and was able to easily fit a couple stops in before driving south.

It only takes an hour and forty minutes or so to reach Beaufort from Charleston. Driving from Beaufort to Savannah takes about an hour.

If you also want to avoid paying a pretty penny to park in Savannah, see if you can rent from a company that allows you to drop your car off at the Savannah airport. The drawback is that you would then need to Uber or taxi back into Savannah, and then back to the airport again for your departure. The money you save might not ultimately be enough to make it worth the hassle.

Where to Stay During a Charleston, SC to Savannah, GA Road Trip

Here are a few hotels in both Charleston and Savannah that I personally enjoyed. I would highly recommend any of the below to those of you who seek both charming and well-located lodging:

Charleston Hotels

Charleston has so many awesome hotel choices, although they can be pricey. The Indigo Inn and Hotel Emeline are ideally located near some of Charleston’s best restaurants and within easy walking distance to the shops on King Street. The Vendue is located right next to the Waterfront Park and close to popular restaurants like Husk and Magnolias .

Savannah Hotels

In Savannah, stay in the gorgeous historic center near the squares or along the waterfront. Two recommended hotels are Marshall House and the Eliza Thompson House . Marshall House is located on Broughton Street, or one of Savannah’s best shopping streets. The Eliza Thompson House is located on picturesque Jones Street, which is lined with dreamy mansions and giant live oaks draped in Spanish moss.

Read My Review of Marshall House Here

There you have it: an absolutely magical road trip from Charleston, SC to Savannah, GA. From beaches, to foodie spots, to curtains of Spanish moss, this Lowcountry itinerary will leave you spellbound. Even after several visits, I keep returning to further uncover the hidden charm and history that lurks beneath the surface of these popular southern cities.

Will you be planning a road trip from Charleston to Savannah soon?

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Charleston to savannah road trip: complete drive guide.

Charleston, South Carolina and Savannah, Georgia are two cities in the Southern United States that are full of (a complicated) history, rich culture, good food, and beautifully preserved architecture. Because they are located within two hours of each other, you can see both cities within a long weekend.

This post will highlight everything you need to know about tackling a Charleston to Savannah road trip. Our drive takes you through the Lowcountry, at a slow meandering pace that is a hallmark of this corner of the world where salt marshes and sweetgrass fields meet large oaks shrouded by Spanish moss and palmetto trees.

We will discuss must-see things in both cities, unforgettable stops in between, mouth-watering restaurants, and places to stay!

Table of contents

How far is charleston from savannah, the ideal route to take, things to see in charleston, places to see on your road trip from charleston to savannah, things to see in savannah, places to stay when driving from charleston to savannah, the best time of year to road trip from charleston to savannah.

The quickest drive from Charleston to Savannah takes two hours with no stops. This route takes you inland and covers 108 miles in a straight shot west out of Charleston before turning south toward Savannah. If your plan is to simply check out point A and point B, this is your best option.

Author Note: This route will allow you to appreciate the geographical landscape of the area, however we think it misses a few key places that are absolutely worth the extra time and mileage.

The route that we suggest taking from Charleston, SC to Savannah, GA is about 2 and a half times the quickest route and is best enjoyed over four to six days! Our ideal route is 4 hours and 34 minutes total (without additional pull offs that you may choose to take). The total distance between Savannah and Charleston for this drive is 184 miles.

We really like this road trip because you’re never spending more than an hour or so in the car per day, and you can see a ton of great things along the way!

While we are focused on the road trip from Charleston to Savannah and don’t want to get bogged down, there are some things to do and see in Charleston that we think you should start off with!

Historical Buildings

As the largest and oldest city in South Carolina, Charleston is a historical treasure trove. It was founded in 1670 and astonishingly some of its oldest structures still stand today for us to enjoy. There are well over one hundred of these notable buildings that were built before 1800!

Here are just a few to walk by:

• The Pink House, located on 17 Chalmers Street, is thought to have been built between the late 1600s to the early 1700. It has served not only as a private residence but also as a tavern, brothel, publishing house, and, most recently, an art gallery.
• The Powder Magazine is now a museum located at 79 Cumberland Street. This is one of the oldest standing public buildings in the area and was built in 1713. Step in and tour a building that sold gunpowder during the Revolutionary War!
• The Elizabeth O’Neill Verner House was built before the Revolutionary War in 1718 by a barrel maker. It is named after one of its owners, Elizabeth O’Neill Verner, who was one of the most well known female artists in twentieth century South Carolina. At one time, this beautiful old three story brick house served as a candy shop. Find this building on 38 Tradd Street.

Charleston’s Alleys

A great way to get to know Charleston is by walking the streets. In particular, we suggest checking out the old alleyways that are tucked away while still offering a lovely picture of how the past has shaped the present.

These present day alleyways were likely not planned streets; instead, they were shortcuts people took between actual established streets. Stores and houses were ultimately built on these alleys as the city grew. And while the city became much larger, these brick-clad alleys have stayed small and narrow.

This map shows 7 of our favorite alleys. Some are foot traffic only, while others allow cars. All of them are open to the public and absolutely picturesque. You can almost feel yourself fall away from the busy, modern city of today and land firmly in the shoes of someone who lived 300 years ago.

All of these alleys are in what’s considered downtown Charlestons, which is made up of numerous different neighborhoods. Because of their close proximity to a lot of the historic sites, stores, and restaurants, a walk through the alleys is a good way to see this part of the city.

Fort Sumter

If you’re a military buff, you probably know a thing or two about Fort Sumter. It is now an inactive sea fortification built on an artificially made island right in the middle of Charleston Harbor. It is most famous for being the site of the first battle of the Civil War.

A twenty minute ferry ride takes you from Charleston (either from Liberty Square or Patriots Point) on the mainland to Fort Sumter. Entrance to Fort Sumter is free however the ferry tickets are not. The only company that provides boat rides to and from Fort Sumter is Fort Sumter Tours.

• Price: $37 adults, $33 active/senior military, $23 for kids
• Website: https://www.fortsumtertours.com/tours/fort-sumter-tour/
• Liberty Square Address: 340 Concord St, Charleston, SC 2940 1
• Patriots Point Address: 40 Patriots Point Rd., Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

Once you’ve gotten your fill of Charleston, it’s time to hit the road. The first three places we recommend can be done as day trips from Charleston. We suggest using Beaufort as the home base for the rest! This will minimize your time in the car and maximize all there is to see!

Here’s what we did on the drive from Charleston to Savannah.

Middleton Place

Construction on this jaw droppingly gorgeous house and the manicured gardens began in the 1730s, with additions being built over the next two centuries by the Middleton family. Now a National Historic Landmark, Middleton Place has the oldest landscaped gardens in the country that span a total of 65 of the property’s 110 acres. Middleton Place is perfect half day activity and is located 30 minutes outside of downtown Charleston

The last remaining building of the family’s residential complex serves as a museum, and is a charming brick building that has perfectly mixed Tudor style architecture with Dutch design influences. A number of the family’s heirlooms are on display in this house, which originally served as an office and guest house.

The gardens were magnificent and the ponds were flanked by low hanging trees. Henry Middleton modeled his plans after the designs of André Le Nôtre, who planned the gardens at the Palace of Versailles. Each generation of the family subsequently added their own contributions.

It was easy to get lost in the beauty of the place, though it is vitally important to note that none of what we see today would be present were it not for the Middleton family’s participation in slavery.

Author Note: Our visit to Middleton Place was a spur of the moment decision and we didn’t have much extra time in the day. Because of this we opted to forgo the guided tours, which include one dedicated solely to the lives of enslaved families. Instead we toured the plantation on our own, knowing that we were going to visit McLeod Plantation the next day. We had read that the tours at McLeod Plantation are known to provide some of the best information about slavery in the area and have to agree now that we have visited. Read more about this historic site next.

• Price: $28 for adults and kids over 14 years old, $10 for kids ages 6-10
• Time Needed: 1 to 3 hours
• Website: https://www.middletonplace.org/
• Address: 4300 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29414

McLeod Plantation Historical Site

Established in 1851 and located just 5 miles outside of Charleston’s city center, the McLeod Plantation was once a sprawling 1,700 acre estate that rose to become one of the largest sea cotton producers, built on the backs of enslaved men, women, and children.

We chose to visit this historical plantation in particular because of the reviews that praised the emphasis the tours placed on the deep history, culture, and suffering of the enslaved families whose presence is still embedded deeply in the Lowcountry’s foundation.

The guided tour takes you through the main McLeod family home where you get to enjoy its elegant Georgian-style interior that starkly contrasts the extremely rustic, one room slave houses that still stand on the property. We appreciated the attention placed on the comparison between the lives and home of the McLeod family and those of the slaves.

Admission to the grounds includes an interpretive tour that is roughly sixty minutes. The six tours offered daily are first come first serve and start at the bottom of every hour beginning at 9:30am.

• Price: $20 for adults and kids over 13 years old, $15 for seniors 60+, and $6 for kids aged 2 to 12
• Time Needed: 1 to 2 hours
• Website: ​​ https://ccprc.com/1447/McLeod-Plantation-Historic-Site
• Address: 325 Country Club Drive, Charleston, SC 29412

John’s Island and Angel Oak Tree

Next on our list is a visit to the Angel Oak Tree which is thought to be the oldest oak tree east of the Mississippi River at 300-400 years old. What is more impressive than its age is its size; Angel Oak is 65 feet tall and shades an area of approximately 17,000 square feet!

There is no admission fee (yay!) and is a quick place to stop after walking around Charleston and the McLeod Plantation.

• Address: 3688 Angel Oak Road, Charleston, SC 29402

Beaufort, South Carolina

Beaufort is South Carolina’s second oldest city, formally founded in 1711. It is a beautiful and well preserved town filled with antebellum era houses, surrounded by expansive salt marshes. It was one of the central, geographical hubs of the Reconstruction Era after the Civil War; in fact the first public reading of the Emancipation Proclamation was done at Camp Saxton situated just outside of town.

Herban Market and Cafe

We recommend stopping by Herban Market and Cafe on North Street for a morning wake-me-up. They have a full coffee and pastry menu, fresh smoothies, and some light fare for breakfast and lunch. We loved having this to start our day. Since it’s only 6 blocks west of the historical downtown, it is a good launching spot for a walk around town.

Stroll down Bay Street for some window shopping while you enjoy your coffee! After walking through downtown Beaufort, continue into the Old Point Neighborhood next. Details are listed below in the next section.

• Website: https://www.herbanmarketandcafe.com/
• Address: 1601 North St, Beaufort, SC 29902

The Old Point Neighborhood

Home to a large number of the oldest and most grand houses in Beaufort, The Old Point is the picture of quintessential Southern charm. Grand porches are lined with hanging ferns that mingle with the low hanging oak trees.

Some of the oldest houses are still standing, including the Thomas Hepworth House (built in 1717!) and the William Johnson House (built around 1776, the year the Declaration of Independence was written and signed).

One of the more impressive houses that is still quite old is the Joseph Johnson House, also known as the Castle of Beaufort. It was built in the style of Italianate architecture and was the last house built in Beaufort before the Union occupation during the Civil War.

All of these houses are private residences, but we think it’s still worth a walk around this neighborhood.

• Thomas Hepworth House: 214 New St, Beaufort, SC 29902
• William Johnson House: 414 New St, Beaufort, SC 29902
• Joseph Johnson House: 411 Craven Street, Beaufort, SC 29902

The Robert Smalls House

While not open to the public, we highly suggest taking a stroll past the Robert Smalls House located at 511 Prince Street. It is just a few blocks outside of the historic downtown.

Robert was born enslaved and grew up in this house that was built in 1840 by Henry McKee. He was hired out as a worker in Charleston at the age of 12 doing odd jobs around the city. In Charleston, he ultimately ended up working on a boat called the Planter which became used as a dispatch boat by the Confederates during the war.

After working on the boat for many years, Robert became a seasoned harbor pilot (however, was unable to hold the title due to his status as an enslaved man). As the war marched its way into Charleston, Robert ultimately devised a plan to steal the Planter .

On May 12th, 1862, he and 15 other slaves set forth out of the harbor and came face to face with a Union vessel. After hoisting up a white flag, they surrendered the vessel to the Union Navy to be used at their discretion. In doing so, Robert secured his and everybody’s onboard freedom. Robert went on to become a pilot in the Union Navy and was ultimately made captain of the Planter .

After the war, he and his family returned to Beaufort where he bought the house in which he was born and enslaved. He went on to serve two terms in the House of Representatives.

Author Note: For more information about Robert Smalls, check out the biography Be Free Or Die by Cate Lineberry.

Sheldon Church Ruins

Nestled in a lush plot of land 17 miles north of Beaufort, the Sheldon Church Ruins are a physical reminder of the turbulent history of our country. Construction of Old Sheldon Church (originally known as Prince William’s Parish Church) was started in 1745.

Not long after it was built, the church burned down after being set on fire by the British during the Revolutionary War in 1779. It was rebuilt only to be burned down again by Union General Sherman during the Civil War in 1865.

The old ruins will remind you of a Greek temple with its four portico columns that remain standing and mostly intact today. The fading brick is dappled with moss as nature slowly retakes this building that is frozen in time. The property is full of large oak trees with reaching, bending limbs. The site is particularly beautiful in the morning as the sun rays streak through the old structure.

• Price: Free!
• Hours: Open year round
• Address: 948 Old Sheldon Church Rd Yemassee, SC 29945

This restaurant is fantastic for lunch or dinner. Lost Local focuses on fresh new dishes with inspiration from around the world. They source their food locally as much as possible, a practice which is not lost on the guests; the flavors are great!

They serve a ton of unique tacos with surprising ingredients. The tacos are also served individually so you can mix and match! The specialized drink menu has something for everyone. Note that they are closed Mondays and Tuesdays.

• Website: https://lostlocal.com /
• Address: 705 Bay Street, Beaufort, South Carolina 29902, United States

Saint Helena Island

This island is one of the 65 sea islands located in Beaufort County and is known for its more rural and laid back way of life. We suggest stopping at the following two attractions:

• Address: 17 Lands End Rd., Saint Helena Island, SC 29920
• Address: 1124 Lands End Rd., Saint Helena Island, SC 29920

Hunting Island State Park and Beach

The last swath of coastline that separates the mainland from the Atlantic Ocean is Hunting Island. It is a beautiful, subtropical barrier island that is mostly uninhabited and serene, despite it being an extremely popular destination.

The five miles of pristine beach are a great place for shell and shark teeth hunting or for a leisurely stroll along the water. From May through October loggerhead sea turtles hatch from these beaches!

Boneyard Beach is located on the southern tip of Hunting Island and is home to an enormous collection of driftwood that has been brought in by the tide.

The whole island is dog friendly except for the most northern tip, which is done to protect wildlife.

• Hours: 6am-6pm daily and open until 9pm during daylight savings
• Price: $8 for adults
• Website: https://southcarolinaparks.com/hunting-island

Even after you’ve completed your Charleston to Savannah drive, there’s more to do if you want to make your road trip complete!

Savannah was founded in 1733 by James Ogelthorphe who sailed with a group of colonists from England to the newly chartered colony of Georgia founded the year prior. Apparently, Ogelthorphe established a friendly relationship with Chief Tomochichi of the Yamacraw tribe that already called this area home. Once this was done, planning for the city of Savannah began.

Savannah is known for being a beautiful coastal, southern city filled with Antebellum-period architecture, trendy boutiques, delicious cuisine, and haunted ghost stories. Here are just a few things to see for a day in Savannah.

Forsyth Park

The beautiful Forsyth Park is 30-acres of green space situated in the middle of the city. It has well maintained paths that wind throughout the fragrant flower beds. The park was named after Georgia’s 33rd governor, John Forsyth and features a large majestic fountain in the center. We suggest starting your morning here to take a stroll in the cool morning air, taking in the sites of the park and the surrounding grand houses.

Collins Quarter

A very popular brunch spot right in the park itself is Collins Quarter. I loved the mushroom toast and Pierce really enjoyed the french toast. The menu has a huge southern influence so it’s on the heavier side (great for a big day of exploring though) but delicious. We got coffee to go before checking out the surrounding neighborhood.

Broughton Street

Walk the six blocks north to Jones Street that is also lined with some gorgeous houses along brick sidewalks. Continue along away from Forsyth Square towards the Savannah River.

Walk down Broughton Street, also considered historic Savannah’s ‘Main Street’. Here you will find plenty of unique shops.

City Market

The City Market has been a main commercial hub in downtown Savannah since the 1700s and continues to thrive today. It sprawls across four city blocks and encapsulates the soul of the city. Check out the numerous shops, boutiques, bars and speakeasies, art studios, and bakeries!

Author Note: When you’re done, end your day walking down River Street for some beautiful photo opportunities and a chance to grab a bite to eat along the river.

Depending on your choice of vehicle (car vs camper) there are a number of places we suggest checking out for lodging.

Charleston Stays

If you’re into history and want to stay in an upscale mansion turned bed and breakfast, we suggest the John Rutledge House Inn. Originally built in 1763, the Rutledge House exudes southern charm and elegance. It is a 4-star hotel and rooms start at $400+, which appears to be competitive with many of the other hotels in the downtown Charleston area.

The rooms are beautiful! As a guest, you are welcome to enjoy their complimentary breakfast, afternoon tea, and evening drinks in their sun-filled courtyard.

• Website: https://johnrutledgehouseinn.com/
• Address: 116 Broad Street | Charleston, SC 29401

Most of your brand name hotels are located within 5 to 10 minutes of the heart of the city and are much cheaper than staying downtown. We’ve always had good luck with Home2 Suites, and the Charleston location didn’t disappoint. We think the twenty minute drive into downtown is worth the cheaper price per night of $150-250.

If you’re traveling in a camper but want to stay in a hotel to be close to the city, we suggest Home2 Suites because it has a much larger parking lot.

• Website: www.hilton.com
• Address: 1963 Savannah Hwy, Charleston, SC 29407

Beaufort Stays

The Anchorage 1770 is an extraordinary, upscale hotel. It’s located right across the street from the Beaufort Harbor and walking distance from the delicious restaurants in the historic downtown. Nightly rates seem to average out around the mid $300 range.

• Website: https://anchorage1770.com/
• Address: 1103 Bay Street, Beaufort, SC 29902

A more affordable hotel is Home2 Suites (yet again). It’s a quick 10 minute drive into downtown.

• Address: 3658 Trask Parkway, Beaufort, South Carolina 29906

If you’re camping and looking for a unique place to stay, we suggest checking out Hipcamp’s website. For a tranquil stay, check out booking a night or two at Lott Farms on Coosaw Island. Just 16 minutes from downtown Beaufort, Lott Farms has two 30-amp sites and one 50-amp site. All three sites offer water and sewage hookups along with free wifi.

The sites sit among the oak trees on this three-acre property, are well leveled, and can accommodate vehicles up to 35 feet.

Savannah Stays

The Marshall House on iconic Boughton Street is centrally located and within walking distance of most things in Savannah’s broad historic district. This hotel is one of the oldest in Savannah and has served many different purposes over the years. During the Civil War it was occupied by Union Troops and served as a hospital for wounded and sick soldiers. It has also been used as a private residence.

• Website: https://www.marshallhouse.com
• Address: 123 East Broughton Street Savannah, Georgia 31401

If you’re traveling with a camper, we suggest you stay at Creekfire RV resort located about 25 minutes west of Savannah. They offer full RV hookup sites and resort amenities such as gold, a lazy river, and dining options.

• Website: https://covecommunities.com/rv-resorts/georgia/creekfire-resort/
• Address: 275 Fort Argyle Road, Savannah, Georgia 31419

This Charleston to Savannah road trip can be done during any part of the year, but we recommend spring or fall because of the moderate temperatures that accompany these seasons. Unless you love hot and humid weather, the months of March-May and September-October are the most ideal for sunny but moderate temperatures.

Wrapping Up

Road tripping from Charleston to Savannah can be a wonderfully rich experience. It is full of history and the beautiful landscape of the Lowcountry.

The distance between Charleston and Savannah is doable over a day but can be stretched over many. We prefer the latter, so allow yourself to travel at a meandering pace to get the most out of your trip!

Katie and Pierce

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12 Fun Activities To Experience Between Savannah And Charleston

• Last updated May 25, 2023
• Difficulty Advanced

• Category United States

Are you aching to explore the charming coastlines of Savannah and Charleston, but tired of the typical sightseeing and tourist traps? Look no further, as we have compiled a list of 12 fun activities that will satisfy both the adventurer and the relaxation-seeker in you. From kayaking through serene marshes to indulging in sweet tea and fried chicken, get ready to experience the best of what the Lowcountry has to offer!

What You'll Learn

Kayaking in the ace basin, visiting the angel oak tree on johns island, touring the historic magnolia plantation, sampling local craft beer at westbrook brewing company, walking the picturesque streets of beaufort, exploring hunting island state park, strolling the savannah historic district, sipping a mint julep at the savannah tea room, taking a bike tour of hilton head island, eating fresh seafood at the wreck of the richard & charlene restaurant, hiking to the top of the tybee island lighthouse, learning about revolutionary war history at charles pinckney national historic site.

If you’re looking for a unique outdoor activity to do between Savannah and Charleston, kayaking in the ACE Basin should definitely be on your list. The ACE Basin is a natural area located in the Lowcountry of South Carolina and is a great place to go kayaking, among other outdoor activities.

There are several outfitters in the area that can provide you with everything you need for your kayaking adventure, including kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and even guided tours. Most outfitters offer half-day and full-day rentals and tours, so you can choose an option that fits your schedule and level of experience.

One of the most popular places to kayak in the ACE Basin is the Ashepoo River. The Ashepoo River is a blackwater river that flows through the heart of the basin and is a great place to see wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. There are several access points along the river, making it easy to launch your kayak and begin your adventure.

Another great place to kayak in the ACE Basin is the Combahee River. The Combahee River is a tidal river that flows through the heart of the basin and is home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators, dolphins, and a large number of birds. Paddling down the Combahee River is a great way to experience the beauty of the area and see the wildlife up close.

Overall, kayaking in the ACE Basin is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the Lowcountry of South Carolina. Whether you’re an experienced kayaker or a novice, there’s something for everyone in the ACE Basin. So, if you’re looking for an outdoor adventure between Savannah and Charleston, be sure to add kayaking in the ACE Basin to your itinerary.

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If you're traveling between Savannah and Charleston and looking for a unique activity to add to your itinerary, consider taking a detour to Johns Island to visit the Angel Oak Tree. This massive live oak tree is estimated to be between 400 and 500 years old and is one of the most iconic landmarks in the Charleston area.

Located just 12 miles south of Charleston, the Angel Oak Tree is easily accessible by car. You can park in the free parking lot and walk a short distance to the tree, which stands at over 65 feet tall and has a trunk circumference of almost 25 feet. The tree's branches stretch out over 17,000 square feet, making it one of the largest live oak trees in the world.

In addition to its impressive size, the Angel Oak Tree is also known for its striking beauty. The tree's branches and leaves create a canopy that filters the sunlight and creates a dappled effect on the ground below. This makes the Angel Oak Tree the perfect spot for a relaxing picnic or a peaceful stroll in nature.

While you're at the Angel Oak Tree, be sure to take advantage of the other attractions in the area. There is a gift shop that sells souvenirs and locally made crafts, as well as a picnic area where you can enjoy a meal. The surrounding park also includes a butterfly garden, a nature trail, and a swamp garden with a boardwalk that winds through the wetlands.

Visiting the Angel Oak Tree is a must-do activity for anyone traveling between Savannah and Charleston. Whether you're interested in nature, history, or just looking for a quiet spot to relax, the Angel Oak Tree has something for everyone. So why not take a break from the highway and experience this breathtaking wonder for yourself?

12 Romantic Things to Do in Helen, GA for Couples

If you're driving between Savannah and Charleston, you're in for a treat because there are plenty of interesting attractions to visit along the way. One of the must-see stops is the Magnolia Plantation, located about halfway between the two cities. This historic plantation dates back to the late 1600s and is renowned for its stunning gardens and fascinating history. Here's what you need to know about touring the Magnolia Plantation on your road trip.

History of the Magnolia Plantation

The Magnolia Plantation has a rich history that spans over 300 years. It was originally owned by the Drayton family, who purchased the land in 1676. Over the centuries, the family built a grand plantation house, expanded the gardens, and added various outbuildings. During the Civil War, the plantation was used as a hospital for wounded soldiers, and it was later donated to the National Trust for Historic Preservation in the early 20th century.

Today, the Magnolia Plantation is one of the most popular tourist attractions in South Carolina. Visitors can tour the plantation house, explore the gardens, and learn about the history of this fascinating property.

Touring the Plantation House

One of the main attractions at the Magnolia Plantation is the plantation house. This grand house is a classic example of Southern architecture, with its wide porches, sweeping staircases, and elegant furnishings. Visitors can take a tour of the house to learn about its history and see the various rooms that were used for different purposes.

One of the most interesting aspects of the plantation house is the Drayton family's extensive collection of antique furniture and artwork. Many of these pieces have been passed down through generations of the family and are now on display for visitors to see.

Exploring the Gardens

The Magnolia Plantation is equally famous for its stunning gardens. The gardens cover over 60 acres and feature a wide variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can walk through the gardens on their own or take a guided tour to learn more about the plants and the history of the landscape.

Some of the highlights of the gardens include the Camellia Garden, the Audubon Swamp Garden, and the Magnolia Plantation Conservatory. In the Camellia Garden, visitors can see over 20 acres of camellias, which bloom in an array of colors during the winter months. The Audubon Swamp Garden is a unique area of the property that features boardwalks and trails through a cypress and tupelo swamp. Here, visitors can see a wide variety of wildlife, including otters, turtles, and alligators. The Magnolia Plantation Conservatory is a glass greenhouse that houses exotic plants from around the world.

Visiting the Plantation Zoo

Finally, the Magnolia Plantation has a small zoo on the property that is a hit with kids and adults alike. The zoo features a variety of animals, including peacocks, goats, and ponies. Visitors can feed the animals and learn more about them from the zookeepers.

If you're looking for something to do between Savannah and Charleston, the Magnolia Plantation is a must-see attraction. This historic plantation offers visitors a glimpse into the history and culture of the South, along with stunning gardens and a small zoo. Take a few hours to explore this fascinating property and you won't be disappointed!

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If you're in the area between Savannah and Charleston and are looking for something to do, be sure to take a detour to the Westbrook Brewing Company for some amazing craft beer sampling.

Located in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, Westbrook Brewing Company prides itself on creating innovative and unique craft beers. The brewery has a charming tasting room where you can sample some of their special brews. You will find many varieties of beer to taste, including stouts, ales, IPAs, sours, and lagers. There are up to 12 beers available on the tap and you can choose a flight of four or six beers to taste.

One of the most popular beers on the menu is the Westbrook Gose, which is a sour beer made with coriander and salt. If you are looking for something a little more robust, try their Mexican Cake Imperial Stout, infused with cocoa nibs, cinnamon, vanilla beans, and ancho chili peppers. It's a heavy, flavorful beer that you won't forget anytime soon.

The brewery also offers tours of their facility, which provides an opportunity to learn about the brewing process and the history of the company. During the tour, you will have a chance to see the bottling and kegging process and learn about the ingredients they use to make their delicious beer.

The Westbrook Brewing Company is not only known for its delicious beer but also for its collaborations with other breweries. They have collaborated with many breweries across the United States to create some amazing beers.

In addition to beer tasting, the Westbrook Brewing Company also has an outdoor area with seating where you can relax and take in the beautiful surroundings. The tasting room is open from Wednesday to Sunday, with varying hours. Be sure to check their website or social media pages for the latest information.

In conclusion, a visit to the Westbrook Brewing Company can offer a fun and unique experience for anyone traveling between Savannah and Charleston. It is a great way to sample some delicious craft beer and learn about the brewing process. So, if you have some time to spare, make sure you take a detour and check it out.

12 Fun Things to Do in Dartmouth: A Local's Guide

If you're traveling between Savannah and Charleston, make sure you don't miss the charming town of Beaufort, South Carolina. With its oak-lined streets, antebellum homes, and gorgeous waterfront views, Beaufort is a destination in itself. One of the best ways to experience the town's beauty is by taking a leisurely stroll through its picturesque neighborhoods. Here are a few highlights to explore on your walking tour:

• Historic Downtown Beaufort - Start your walk in the heart of Beaufort's downtown, where you'll find a delightful mix of shops, restaurants, and historic sites. Don't miss the John Mark Verdier House, a Federal-style mansion built in 1804 that now houses the Beaufort County Historical Society. You can also visit the Old Beaufort Firehouse, which has been converted into an art gallery and event space.
• The Waterfront Park - From downtown, make your way to the Beaufort Waterfront Park, a lush green space that offers stunning views of the Beaufort River. You can relax on a bench, have a picnic, or take a walk along the boardwalk. The park is also home to the Beaufort Marina, where you can rent boats or take a sunset cruise.
• The Antebellum Homes - Beaufort is known for its beautifully preserved antebellum homes, many of which date back to the 1800s. Take a stroll down Bay Street or Craven Street and admire the intricate wrought-iron balconies and sprawling porches. Some of the most stunning homes include the Old Sheldon Church ruins, which are just a short drive from downtown.
• The Spanish Moss Trail - If you're up for a longer walk or bike ride, head to the Spanish Moss Trail, a 13.6-mile trail that connects Beaufort to Port Royal. Along the way, you'll see beautiful marsh views, historic sites, and plenty of wildlife. The trail is paved and relatively flat, making it suitable for all skill levels.

Overall, Beaufort is a charming and laid-back town that's perfect for a leisurely stroll. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or just enjoying a beautiful day outside, Beaufort has something for everyone. So put on your walking shoes and explore this gem of the Lowcountry.

12 Must-Do Activities in Lorton, VA

If you're planning a road trip between Savannah, Georgia and Charleston, South Carolina, be sure to make a pit stop at Hunting Island State Park. As the state's most popular park, this secluded barrier island is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and relax in serene coastal surroundings.

Located about halfway between the two cities, Hunting Island State Park boasts five miles of pristine beach, a historic lighthouse, and plenty of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, camp, or simply soak up the sun, there's something for everyone on this vibrant coastal paradise.

One of the highlights of the park is the Hunting Island Lighthouse. Built in 1875, this towering structure stands at 136 feet tall and is the only lighthouse in South Carolina that is open to the public. Visitors can climb to the top for breathtaking views of the island and the surrounding Atlantic Ocean.

For those who are more interested in wildlife, Hunting Island State Park is home to a variety of species, including loggerhead sea turtles, dolphins, and a variety of bird species. The park's marshes and tidal creeks are also popular spots for crabbing and fishing.

If you're looking to stretch your legs and explore the park's natural beauty, there are several hiking trails that wind through the coastal forests and marshes. The Nature Center also has a number of educational exhibits that showcase the area's unique flora and fauna.

For those who want to stay overnight, Hunting Island State Park offers both cabins and campsites. The campground is open year-round and features over 100 sites, many of which offer electric and water hookups. The campsites are just a short walk from the beach and offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

In short, Hunting Island State Park is an ideal destination for anyone travelling between Savannah and Charleston. Whether you're looking to explore the island's rich history, relax on a secluded beach, or simply enjoy the great outdoors, this stunning coastal paradise has something for everyone.

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When planning a road trip between the charming cities of Savannah and Charleston, there are countless activities and sights to see. Among the most worthwhile experiences is taking a stroll through Savannah's historic district.

The Savannah Historic District is a beautifully preserved area of the city that spans several blocks. The district is home to some of the city's most impressive architecture, including the gorgeous Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and the Mercer Williams House, which was made famous in the book and movie "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil." Visitors can also explore museums, galleries, and historic homes in the area.

One of the best ways to experience the beauty of the historic district is on foot. Take a leisurely stroll down the cobblestone streets lined with charming old homes and stunning oak trees draped with Spanish moss. The Savannah Historic District is a great place to people watch and soak up the local culture.

While walking through the district, you'll also come across many quaint boutiques, specialty shops and art galleries. Be sure to take your time to visit some of these unique stores, where you might find one-of-a-kind souvenirs to bring home.

In addition to the beautiful architecture and shopping, the Savannah Historic District is also home to some of the city's best restaurants and cafes. Whether you're looking for a Southern comfort food meal or something a bit more upscale, you'll find plenty of options in this area.

Overall, taking a leisurely stroll through the historic district is an ideal way to spend an afternoon in Savannah while on your way to Charleston. The sights and sounds of this beautiful area of the city will leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated, ready to continue your journey to the next adventure.

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If you're making the journey between Savannah and Charleston, you'll find there's plenty to keep you occupied along the way. From exploring the natural beauty of the Lowcountry, to delving into the rich history and culture of the region, there's no shortage of things to do. One of the must-visit locations on the route is the Savannah Tea Room, where you can sip a refreshing mint julep and take in the charming surroundings.

Located in the heart of Savannah's historic district, the tea room offers a welcome retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city streets. Housed in a beautiful 19th-century building, the interior is decorated in elegant Victorian style, with plush seating, crystal chandeliers, and fine china. It's the perfect setting to enjoy a relaxing afternoon tea or a cocktail, and watch the world go by.

But the highlight of the menu is undoubtedly the mint julep. This classic Southern drink is made with fresh mint, sugar, bourbon, and crushed ice, and is said to have originated in Virginia in the 18th century. It's now a beloved staple of Southern cuisine, and the Savannah Tea Room's version is a delicious twist on the traditional recipe. The bartenders are experts in their craft, and will whip up the perfect mint julep for you to enjoy.

While you sip on your drink, be sure to take in the tea room's beautiful surroundings. The building dates back to the late 1800s, and is a testament to the city's rich history and architecture. It was originally built as a private home, but has since been converted into a stylish tea room. The decor is a blend of old-world charm and modern elegance, with touches of Eastern influence and a strong sense of Southern hospitality.

If you're feeling peckish, the tea room also offers a range of delicious treats to enjoy alongside your drink. From delicate finger sandwiches to decadent pastries, there's something to suit every taste and appetite. The menu changes regularly to reflect the season and the local produce, so be sure to check out what's on offer when you visit.

So if you're looking for a true taste of Southern charm and hospitality on your journey between Savannah and Charleston, be sure to stop in at the Savannah Tea Room. The mint julep is a must-try, and the beautiful surroundings will provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing break.

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If you find yourself in between Savannah and Charleston and looking for an outdoor activity to experience, taking a bike tour of Hilton Head Island is a great option. Hilton Head Island is known for its beautiful beaches, scenic trails and winding roads, making it a perfect destination for bike riders of all levels.

The island offers a variety of bike rental companies, and many of them also offer guided tours. These tours are typically led by knowledgeable and experienced guides who are familiar with the best bike routes on the island, and can share interesting facts and stories about the island’s culture and history.

One of the most popular tours is the Hilton Head Island 12 Mile Path Tour. This tour takes you on a route that follows the entirety of the island’s bike path, which is a 12-mile stretch of flat and paved trail that runs through forested areas, along lagoons, and past some of the most beautiful beaches on the island.

If you are looking for a more adventurous bike tour, there are also options for off-road biking. The Sea Pines Forest Preserve is a nature preserve on the island that has miles of off-road trails and paths that provide breathtaking views of marshes, lagoons, wildlife and untouched forests. This tour is sure to satisfy the most adventurous bikers.

For families and those who want a more relaxed pace, there are also guided eco-tours that cater to small groups of people. These tours provide a more personalized experience with a guide who can customize the route based on participants' abilities and interests. These tours emphasize learning about the natural world, wildlife, and ecology of the island.

In addition to guided tours, there are also many benefits to exploring the island on your own. Hilton Head has an extensive network of bike paths and trails that provide countless opportunities to explore on your own, stop for pictures and enjoy great scenery.

Overall, taking a bike tour of Hilton Head Island is an excellent way to experience the beauty of the island while getting some exercise. Whether you’re looking for a more leisurely pace or an adrenaline-fueled adventure, there is a tour that is sure to satisfy all of your biking needs.

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If you're traveling between Savannah and Charleston, you're in for a treat. This stretch of the southeastern coast is filled with charming towns, beautiful beaches, and delicious seafood. One of the best places to stop along the way is the Wreck of the Richard & Charlene restaurant.

Located in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, the Wreck of the Richard & Charlene is a family-owned seafood restaurant that's been around for over 30 years. The restaurant is named after a shrimp boat that sank off the coast of Charleston in the 1970s. The owners of the restaurant salvaged the boat and turned it into a unique dining experience.

When you step inside the Wreck of the Richard & Charlene, you'll feel like you're on a ship. The walls are covered in maritime decor, and there are portholes and rigging all around. You can sit inside the hull of the boat or outside on the deck overlooking the Charleston Harbor.

But the real reason to visit the Wreck of the Richard & Charlene is for the fresh seafood. The menu is filled with local catches like shrimp, oysters, and crab, as well as classic dishes like fish and chips and clam chowder. All of the seafood is sourced from nearby waters and prepared with care by the restaurant's chefs.

One of the most popular dishes at the restaurant is the Shrimp & Grits. This southern classic is made with creamy grits, sautéed shrimp, and a rich bacon gravy. It's the perfect comfort food after a long day of traveling.

Another must-try dish is the Lowcountry Boil. This hearty meal is made with shrimp, sausage, corn on the cob, and potatoes, all boiled together in spices and served on a platter. It's a messy but delicious experience that's perfect for sharing with a group.

Of course, no visit to the Wreck of the Richard & Charlene is complete without trying some of the restaurant's famous hushpuppies. These fried balls of cornmeal are served with honey butter and are the perfect snack to enjoy while you wait for your meal.

Overall, the Wreck of the Richard & Charlene is a must-visit restaurant for anyone traveling between Savannah and Charleston. The unique atmosphere, delicious seafood, and friendly service make it a standout experience on your journey along the southeastern coast.

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If you're traveling between Savannah and Charleston, there are plenty of things to do and see along the way. One such activity is hiking to the top of the Tybee Island Lighthouse. Located just 18 miles east of Savannah on Georgia's coast, Tybee Island is a popular destination for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and charming southern vibe. The lighthouse is a must-visit attraction on the island, and the hike to the top is an unforgettable experience.

The Tybee Island Lighthouse was first built in 1736 to guide sailors into the Savannah River. Over the years, the lighthouse has been rebuilt and restored, and today it stands 145 feet tall. Visitors can climb the 178 steps to the top of the lighthouse for a panoramic view of the island and the surrounding ocean. The hike is challenging, but the reward is well worth it.

Before you begin your hike, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water. The lighthouse is open to visitors from 9 am to 5:30 pm daily, except for major holidays. There is a small admission fee to climb to the top of the lighthouse, but the experience is well worth the price.

As you climb the stairs to the top, you'll be able to see the unique spiral staircase that winds up the lighthouse. The stairs are narrow, and the climb can be tiring, so take your time and appreciate the view along the way. You'll also see displays about the history of the lighthouse and the island as you climb.

Finally, you'll reach the top of the lighthouse, where you'll be rewarded with a stunning view of the ocean and the island. You'll be able to see for miles in all directions, and you'll feel a sense of accomplishment for making it to the top. Take your time and enjoy the view, and be sure to snap some photos to remember the experience.

In conclusion, if you're traveling between Savannah and Charleston, hiking to the top of the Tybee Island Lighthouse is a must-do activity. The hike is challenging but rewarding, and the panoramic view from the top is unforgettable. Plan to spend a few hours on Tybee Island to explore all the island has to offer, including the beautiful beaches, historic sites, and fantastic restaurants. It's a perfect day trip from either Savannah or Charleston, and a highlight of any trip to the Georgia coast.

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When traveling between Savannah and Charleston, there are plenty of things to see and do along the way. If you're interested in history, one must-see destination is the Charles Pinckney National Historic Site, located just north of Charleston.

Named after Charles Pinckney, a prominent figure in the American Revolution and signer of the United States Constitution, the historic site provides visitors with an insight into the life and legacy of this influential man.

Upon arrival at the historic site, visitors can explore the 28-acre property, which includes the remains of the Pinckney family's 1828 Lowcountry plantation home. The main house was destroyed during the Civil War, but several structures, including the kitchen house and slave quarters, have been restored and are open for viewing.

One of the highlights of the Charles Pinckney National Historic Site is the guided tour of the grounds. Led by knowledgeable rangers, these tours provide a wealth of information about life on the plantation and Pinckney's significant contributions to American history.

Pinckney was a delegate to the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia in 1787 and was a key driver in establishing the framework for America's government. He also served as a member of the South Carolina legislature, as governor of the state, and as a U.S. senator.

In addition to the guided tour, visitors can explore the exhibits in the visitor center, which highlight Pinckney's life and achievements. The center also has a bookstore where you can purchase books and souvenirs related to the site and the Revolutionary War.

Overall, the Charles Pinckney National Historic Site is an excellent destination for history buffs traveling between Savannah and Charleston. With its fascinating exhibits, restored structures, and knowledgeable rangers, the site provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about the life and legacy of a significant figure in American history.

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Frequently asked questions.

- Some great outdoor activities include hiking and biking at Hunting Island State Park in South Carolina, kayaking in the rivers and marshes near Beaufort, and taking a scenic drive on Highway 17 through the Lowcountry.

- Yes, there are plenty of historic landmarks to see, including the antebellum mansions in Charleston, the Fort Pulaski National Monument near Savannah, and the Penn Center in St. Helena Island, which was one of the first schools for formerly enslaved African Americans.

- Families with children can enjoy visiting the South Carolina Aquarium in Charleston, the Children's Museum of the Lowcountry, and the Savannah Children's Museum.

- Yes, there are a few to check out, including the Irvin House Vineyards on Wadmalaw Island in South Carolina and the LaFayette Vineyards in the Georgia countryside.

- A great way to taste the local cuisine is by taking a food tour in Charleston or Savannah. Additionally, there are many seafood restaurants and oyster bars in the area which offer delicious Lowcountry cuisine.

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Charleston to Savannah Itinerary! The Perfect Lowcountry Roadtrip

The Deep South is unlike anywhere else in the United States. With its endless natural beauty and authentic cuisine, cities like Charleston & Savannah are just brimming with sweet southern charm & appeal.

So if you’re looking to explore the highlights of Charleston, South Carolina and Savannah, Georgia but don’t have a ton of time? Check out below the perfect Charleston Savannah Itinerary that hits all the best spots in just a few short days.

The best way to explore the south is by hitting the open road! The drive from Charleton to Savannah is roughly around 2 hours, so be ready to explore every area as there is no better time than now to make your very own quintessential southern road trip.

While I’ve highlighted some of the best places to see in this itinerary, a true road trip isn’t complete without adding some of your own personal stops along the way.

I’ve been using Roadtrippers for years and found it to be the best road trip planning tool for finding unique stops & detours.

Road tripping through the south? Don’t miss my ultimate Charleston Savannah Itinerary.

Charleston & Savannah Itinerary Ideas

2-day charleston & savannah itinerary.

Day 1: Downtown Charleston

Day 2: Downtown Savannah

3-day Charleston & Savannah Itinerary

Day 2: South of Broad & Boone Hall Plantation

Day 3: Downtown Savannah

4-day Charleston & Savannah Itinerary

Day 4: Wormsloe Plantation & Bonaventure Cemetery

Itinerary Overview

Before we get stuck into it, I just want to give a quick overview of the itinerary layout below. The main itinerary will consist of top things to do in both downtown Charleston & Savannah, which you can apply to any of the above itineraries.

The rest will consist of other major attractions outside of the downtown areas, such as plantations, suburbs, and beaches, which can help plan your remaining days.

At the end of the article, you can find all my top recommendations for restaurants and accommodation in each city, plus helpful tips that will make your trip-planning process more of a breeze.

Read more 

The ultimate 3-day charleston itinerary, downtown charleston.

From beautiful cobblestone streets to horse-drawn carriages, it’s easy to fall in love with Charleston and its distinctive southern charm. Explore Charleston’s historic downtown area, which includes hot spots like its historic French Quarter, Waterfront Park, and more.

Charleston City Market

One of the oldest public markets in the heart of downtown Charleston, it offers visitors the opportunity to shop countless stalls containing local arts and crafts, fashion, souvenirs, and more.

The Slave Mart Museum

Formally known as Ryan’s Mart, this old building once housed Native American slaves that were once sold at public auctions. The museum documents the important stories & lives of the former slaves and the role Charleston played as a major slave-trading center during this time period.

Waterfront Park

Overlooking the Charleston Harbor sits Charleston’s iconic Waterfront Park. Visitors can enjoy the famous pineapple-shaped water fountain and soak up the park’s beautiful waterfront views.

King Street

Your visit to Charleston isn’t complete without stopping by King Street. With its remarkable history and diverse mix of boutiques, restaurants, and bars, King Street is a great place to grab a cocktail or wander the unique stores for gifts and souvenirs.

Charleston Museum

Considered one of the oldest museums in South Carolina, the Charleston Museum showcases the natural and cultural history of Charleston and its surrounding areas. Discover historic collections and exhibitions and the rich history of the South Carolina low country.

South of Broad

A prestigious neighborhood located at the tip of the Charleston Peninsula. Here visitors can find Charleston’s iconic Rainbow Row, thirteen pastel-colored homes all lined in a row. South of Board also includes some of Charleston’s most architecturally designed homes, with popular streets like Lagare Street, East Bay, and Lower King Street.

The Battery

Another highlight of downtown Charleston is The Battery. This distinctive landmark is a waterfront promenade that served as an artillery battery during the Civil War. Today The Battery is famous for its line of grand antebellum homes that face the waterfront, making it a wonderful place for sightseeing.

Historic Home Tours

Don’t miss the Aiken-Rhett House and Nathaniel Russell House tours. Each tour takes approximately 45 minutes and explores the colonial history and architecture of each estate. Check out Historic Charleston for tickets. Got time for both tours? Purchase a combo ticket here and get a discount.

Historic Walking Tour of Charleston

Take yourself on a self-guided tour of the city! All the above locations are within walking distance of each other, so grab your comfy shoes and explore Charleston’s historic sites firsthand. Want to drive deeper into the city’s history? You may enjoy this guided walking tour of Charleston.

More Charleston Highlights

Looking for an afternoon getaway from Charleston’s bustling downtown? Here’s a quick list of places that can help fill in your remaining Charleston Savannah itinerary.

Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens

Head to the Boone Hall Plantation for an incredible house and grounds tour. The Boone Hall Plantation in Mount Pleasant is one of America’s oldest working plantations. This stunning plantation features a house tour, a tractor ride of the entire grounds, history talks & demonstrations, and of course, its famous avenue of live oaks.

Magnolia Plantation

Founded in 1676 by the Drayton family, Magnolia Plantation & Gardens is known for its extensive history and lush gardens spread throughout the property. Enjoy the many tours on offer, including the main house tour, boat cruise, and the nature train ride that takes guests on a 45 minute journey through the property gardens.

Fort Sumter National Monument

Located in the middle of the Charleston harbor is Fort Sumter National Monument. This historic site is known for being the site where they fired the first shot during the Civil War. Explore the island and learn about how the American Civil War began all those years ago.

Folly Beach

Just minutes from downtown Charleston is Folly Beach. Known to the locals as “The edge of America”, Folly Beach is never short of fun activities. Top things to do include walking the beach pier, fishing, surfing, shopping & more.

Cypress Gardens

Just a short 20-minute drive outside of Charleston, you’ll find the stunning Cypress Gardens at Mocks Corner, a beautiful 170-acre nature preserve that is known for its blackwater swamp and tall cypress trees. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon of canoeing through the swamp and soaking in the surrounding wildlife and nature.

Read More 

The ultimate 4-day outer banks itinerary, downtown savannah.

It’s now time to hit the open road and make your way to Savannah, Georgia. This beautiful, chic, and sophisticated city is home to some of the cutest boutiques, art galleries, period architecture, and, of course, one of the best dining destinations on the East Coast.

Much like Charleston, there are plenty of things to do in Savannah, whether you plan to eat your way around the city like a true foodie or embrace the historic homes and romantic ambiance. Whatever the reason, this sweet Georgian peach is sure to take your breath away!

Forsyth Park

Just like Charleston, Savannah is a very walkable city with most of its top attractions located downtown. Don’t miss Savannah’s famous Forsyth Park, located right in the heart of the city. The park takes up 30 acres of Savannah’s historic district and features its iconic water fountain, a beautiful gem all on its own.

River Street

A trip to Savannah wouldn’t be complete without stopping by River Street to admire the Savannah River. This gorgeous cobblestone stone road is a beautiful place to shop, dine, and soak up the waterfront views.

Chippewa Square

The famous spot where Forrest Gump sits on the park bench. Sadly, the bench was just a prop for the movie. However, the park is very recognizable and a beautiful spot to take a few photos.

Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist

Nicknamed the ‘Sistine of the South,” the Cathedral of St. John is one of the most photographed landmarks in all of Savannah. With its French gothic exterior, detailed murals, and beautiful stained glass windows, this Catholic cathedral is a definite must-see when exploring downtown.

The Mercer Williams House Museum

Next, we have the famous Mercer Williams House. Completed in 1868, the Mercer house has a dark history and is reported to be one of the most haunted places in Savannah.

It was also the “scene of the crime” for one of Savannah’s most notorious shootings, which were later retold in the book “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt.

Savannah City Market

City Market is a four-block open-air market where visitors can shop at boutique stores and surrounding cafes, like the popular Paris Market Cafe. Here you will find the perfect Savannah keepsakes to bring back home.

Telfair Museums

Located in the historic district of Savannah, the Telfair Museum was the first public art museum to open in the south. The museum consists of 3 unique sites. The Telfair Acadamy, Jepson Center, and The Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters.

Between the three, the museum currently contains a large collection of over 4,500 American and European paintings, unique exhibits, and sculptures.

Evening Ghost Tour

Finish off your Savannah itinerary with a guided ghost tour. Savannah is known for its dark afterlife. Experience Savannah’s creepy haunted locations at night and learn about the city’s most notorious murders and mysteries. Here are a few fun ghost tours that are offered around the city.

Explore Savannah by Trolley

Traveling by trolley is a great way to explore Savannah’s highlights. This hop-on hop-off trolley tour will take you past all the best spots. Another great option is the free DOT Express Shuttle . It runs seven days a week and will take you to many popular locations including visitor centers and main parking lots.

More Savannah Highlights

Got some extra free time? Experience even more of Savannah and its hidden gems! Venture out and explore more Savannah highlights, which include an old eerie cemetery, a colonial road, and a plantation featuring an avenue of live oaks draped with Spanish moss.

Bonaventure Cemetery

Located on Scenic Bluff, Bonaventure Cemetery is a public burial ground for the city of Savannah. It gained worldwide popularity when it was featured in the book and 1994 movie “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.”

This unique cemetery is one of the largest in the area covering over 100 acres of ground, and features beautiful ornate tombs and intricate headstones.

Wormsloe Plantation

Take yourself on a guided tour of the plantation and grounds. Wormsloe Plantation is one of Georgia’s oldest plantations. The onsite museum shows a glimpse into the lives of the Jones family and the long history of the plantation.

Wormsloe also features a colonial life area representing the typical 18th-century outbuildings and crops that would have been grown at the estate. Also, before you leave, be sure to take a few snaps at the entrance of the plantation. The beautiful avenue of live oaks is truly something else.

Tybee Island

Located on the east coast of Savannah is Tybee Island, a 3-mile stretch of pristine beach. Tybee Island is popular amongst locals as it’s still relatively close to the city of Savannah. The island offers a large variety of experiences, so you could easily spend a full day here exploring all the highlights.

Where to eat & stay in Charleston

Charleston dining recommendations:.

– Leon’s Oyster Shop

– Husk Charleston

– Charleston Crab House

– Camellias

– Harken Cafe

– The Black Door Cafe

– Ellis Fish Camp

– Dukes BBQ

– Bagel Nation

Where to stay in Charleston:

Charleston has many boutique hotels & historic properties spread throughout its city. To experience real Southern hospitality at its finest, check out my top hotel recommendations below. Traveling on a budget? Find lodging for all budgets here.

– Cambria Mount Pleasant  

– Barksdale House Inn 

– 21   East Battery  

– Hyatt Place North Charleston

– The Pinch

– Planters Inn  

– Hotel Bennett  

– Francis Marion Hotel 

Where to eat & stay in Savannah

Savannah dining recommendations:.

– Husk Savannah

– Six Pence Pub

– Mirabelle Savannah

– The Ordinary Pub

– The Collin’s Quarter

– Franklin’s

– Cotton & Rye

– Leopold’s Ice Cream

Where to stay in Savannah:

Georgia’s oldest city has plenty to see & do and, of course, many awesome places to stay. For first-timers visiting Savannah, I highly recommend staying downtown in the historic district. It’s the prime location. Tourists can explore many of the city’s famous sights right from their doorsteps.

– Foley House Inn 

– Kehoe House 

– Perry Lane Hotel

– The Westin Savannah harbor

– Mansion on Forsyth Park

– The Bluff Hotel Savannah

– The Marshall House

Charleston & Savannah Travel Tips

While I’ve packed this post with top things to do and where to eat, there are still a few things you should keep in mind when visiting these incredible cities. The below tips were super helpful when planning my own trip.

While most of the favored attractions are located downtown and within walking distance, I still recommend hiring a car and venturing further out of the city.

Some of the best locations, like Wormsloe and Cypress Gardens, do require a car to visit. Plus, renting a car is a good backup if it starts to rain.

A true road trip isn’t complete without snacks! So remember to bring plenty of water and snacks to enjoy on the road. 

Patience is key

If crowds aren’t your thing, then it’s best to plan your itinerary around weekdays rather than on the weekend. Both Charleston and Savannah are small cities, and crowds can sometimes be unavoidable.

However, you can still enjoy many of the above activities if you plan accordingly and be patient with the crowds.

Book in advance

As I mentioned in my 3-day Charleston guide , booking activities, restaurants, and tours in advance will save you a lot of time and future disappointment.

Some restaurants can be booked out months in advance, so if there is a particular restaurant you wish to experience, then I suggest making reservations asap.

Parking can be tricky!

Finding free or cheap parking in Charleston and Savannah, especially in the downtown areas, can be quite challenging.

Booking accommodation close to all the action is best in this scenario so you can walk around or leave your car at your hotel and catch the trolleys.

Watch out for gators

Now, this may be a no-brainer for some however, gators are very common in the south, so much so that Hilton Head Island residents share their roads with anywhere between 2,000 – 4,000 alligators. That’s crazy!

Gators can be found thriving in shallow swamps, marshes, and lakes, so take care when entering any body of water, use common sense, and don’t entice or feed the alligators.

Whew, that was ALOT! I hope you found this guide helpful. Let me know below which Charleston Savannah itinerary you think is best. Overall I had a blast visiting both cities and found that three days was more than enough to explore the highlights. I would love to go back to explore more offbeat attractions sometime in the near future.

Safe Travels ☺️

Just a heads up! This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small commission that helps support this blog. You will not pay more when you buy through these links. All opinions are my own, and I would never recommend anything I don’t personally love.

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A Charleston to Savannah Road Trip Guide to Exploring the Lowcountry

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Before I start, I have to get something off my chest. Charlestonians call Savannah the slutty younger sister of Charleston. Locals head from Charleston to Savannah when they’re looking to let loose a bit.

To some degree, the connotation sticks:

• Open container laws
• Bachelorette parties galore
• Heavy drinking on River Street
• Saint Patrick’s Day in general

But don’t judge a book by it’s cover! Or do, as Savannah residents don’t care.

As a Savannah innkeeper told me, that younger sister is way more fun at a party.

Savannah, Georgia, is worth exploring in its own right. The two sister cities, Charleston and Savannah, are more different than people give them credit.

Table of Contents

Charleston versus savannah.

Charleston is more European in feel. While it’s larger, it’s scattered across islands and peninsulas.

Savannah, meanwhile, is more concentrated in its downtown. It also has taller buildings, which give it more of a city feel, despite being smaller.

Savannah’s farther from the ocean, so beaches are more of a drive. And the Spanish moss drapes more densely on the trees, which certainly contributes to the classic Southern feel.

Most still associate Savannah with “the Book”, or the 1995 novel, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil . John Berendt’s novel about the city from the perspective of a scandalous murder trial is still worth a read before you step foot here, if you have the time.

A weekend is all you need to get a good grasp on Savannah. That said, more time will allow you to explore farther afield or check-off the things I skipped on my recent visit.

Everything You Need to Plan a Short Weekend in Savannah from Charleston

The good thing is Savannah is relatively compact. The city sprawls like a typical American metropolis. And yet the major attractions are largely central to downtown.

I recently drove down after work on a Friday. I wandered around downtown all Saturday, then explored further parts of the Savannah area on Sunday. And I wasn’t too exhausted to drive driving home that evening.

Though even if I wasn’t, I would have had to, what with work and all.

While I could have done more (like the museums), I can’t say I was bored.

How to Get from Charleston to Savannah

Many people lump Charleston and Savannah together when they visit the Lowcountry. I drove the 2 hours from Charleston to Savannah. It may be cheaper depending on where you’re coming from to fly to Charleston International Aiport and then drive to the Empire State of the South.

That said, the Savannah / Hilton Head International Airport is 8 miles away from downtown. The airport has regular flights to all the major cities of the Northeast, plus Miami, Dallas, Houston, and Chicago. You can even skip the drive from Atlanta and Charlotte, if you’re so inclined.

If you prefer to be a little eco-friendly and travel by rail, Amtrak passes through Savannah on its Silver Service / Palmetto line .

Savannah’s easily accessible from I-95. If you’re coming from the north, I recommend getting off on Route 17 close to the Georgia / South Carolina border. That way, you can cross the Savannah River via the Talmadge Memorial Bridge, rather than the uglier bridge that I-95 travels, further west. You can also take Interstate 16 to enter the city from the west.

While the drive is only about 2 hours, there are a lot of great places to stop and poke around on the way.

In order of distance from our starting point on a Charleston to Savannah road trip itinerary:

Kiawah Island: An Exclusive Retreat

Kiawah Island, an opulent private island, is only 25 miles southwest of Charleston, South Carolina. This upscale resort is known for its immaculate beaches, lush scenery, and first-rate amenities. It’s an ideal spot to relax or take part in outdoor activities while on your Charleston road trip itinerary.

With its natural beauty and five championship golf courses at the Kiawah Island Golf Resort, this island paradise is a true dream come true. Kiawah Island is a must-see stop on a Charleston road trip.

You can relax on the beach, pedal around the island, or tee off on one of the top golf courses.

Activities and Attractions on Kiawah Island

Outdoor enthusiasts are spoiled for choice on Kiawah Island. Get active with kayaking, biking, and golfing while surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Beachwalker Park, located on the western end of the island, offers public beach access where you can relax on the sand or explore the island by bike. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like bald eagles and ospreys while you’re there.

For more structured activities, the Kiawah Island Golf Resort offers a variety of outdoor activities:

• Play a round of golf on one of their five championship courses
• Indulge in some tennis
• Or take part in water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding

After a day full of adventure, relax and rejuvenate at the resort’s spa or take a dip in one of the multiple swimming pools.

Other spots to explore near Kiawah Island include Edisto Island. Much less developed than other Charleston sea islands, it’s famous for its peaceful atmosphere. Try out some outdoor activities to explore the area like:

• And golfing

Edisto Beach State Park is worth just a few hours to visit. It offers hiking trails, an environmental education center, and fishing tournaments.

Where to Stay on Kiawah Island

If you decide to extend your South Carolina road trip to include an overnight on Kiawah Island, you have a few options.

All pricey.

The Kiawah Island Golf Resort offers villas, homes, and suites with stunning ocean views.

Beaufort: A Charming Stopover

Nestled between Savannah and Charleston, Beaufort is a charming small town. It’s a delightful break on your road trip. This coastal town is famous for:

• Its historic homes
• Picturesque waterfront
• And delicious seafood

It’s an ideal stopover for road trips to and from Savannah and Charleston.

The center street of town drips with as much Southern charm as Spanish moss-in the oak trees. Beaufort captures the Lowcountry ambience in a small package.

Exploring Beaufort’s History

Be sure to discover Beaufort’s rich history through its well-preserved historic district. It features stunning antebellum homes and beautiful historic churches. On Port Royal Island, one of South Carolina’s Sea Islands, Beaufort once competed with Charleston for the title of South Carolina’s major port. It lost, but it’s still quite charming. Highlights of Beaufort’s history include its role in the American Civil War and the Port Royal Experiment. The second was an initiative by President Lincoln’s administration. The goal was helping emancipated slaves become economically independent.

Explore Beaufort’s history and picturesque surroundings with the help of:

• Walking tours
• Carriage tours
• And boat tours

Don’t miss nearby attractions like the Fort Pulaski National Monument. This is a Civil War site that witnessed the Union Army’s siege and eventual capture of the fort. Another is Hunting Island State Park, an island state park famous for:

• Stunning natural beauty
• And the historic Hunting Island Lighthouse

And the Old Sheldon Church Ruins are a cool stop just off the highway outside of Beaufort. This church had a tumultuous history, which hides the tranquil setting you find now. It appears that too many people have been doing reckless things at the Old Sheldon Church ruins, so a fence now surrounds them.

Beaufort’s history is also deeply intertwined with the Gullah culture. The Penn Center was one of the first schools in the country to provide education for formerly enslaved individuals. The site and visitor center offers an opportunity to learn about African American history, art, and culture through self-guided or group tours.

Hilton Head Island: Relaxation and Adventure

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, is a popular tourist hotspot . It blends relaxation and outdoor adventure. Ranked as one of the best US islands, Hilton Head Island hosts:

• Stunning beaches
• Diverse Lowcountry wildlife
• World-class golf courses
• And delicious food

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or an action-packed visit, Hilton Head Island is a great pick. Lounge on the beach, explore nature trails, or enjoy a round of golf at one of the many golf courses.

Outdoor Experiences on Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island offers a wide range of outdoor experiences for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Golf enthusiasts can tee off on one of the island’s world-class golf courses, while tennis players can enjoy a match at one of the many tennis courts. Hilton Head Island is also home to beautiful beaches like Coligny Beach Park. There, you can relax on the sand or rent a paddleboard to explore the Atlantic Ocean.

To discover the island’s natural beauty and wildlife, the Coastal Discovery Museum is a must-visit attraction. Here, you can walk along well-maintained walking trails throughout. All the while, learn about Hilton Head Island’s ecosystems with hands-on exhibits and outdoor activities. For a different perspective of the island, take a boat tour of the marshes and waterways. Or visit nearby attractions like:

• Savannah National Wildlife Refuge
• And Shelter Cove Community Park

Ending Your Journey in Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia, is the grand finale of your road trip, offering a charming blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, marvel at the Spanish moss-draped oak trees, and explore the city’s rich history that dates back to the 18th century. Must-see attractions in Savannah include Forsyth Park, River Street, and Bonaventure Cemetery, making it the perfect destination to end your Charleston road trip.

As you explore Savannah, you’ll be captivated by its historic architecture, vibrant waterfront, and delicious Southern cuisine. From the iconic historic squares to the bustling City Market, Savannah is a city that offers a delightful mix of old-world charm and modern amenities.

Must-See Attractions

I’ve visited Savannah more than a few times. This most recent visit, however, I got to see the city from a local friend’s eyes.

Savannah’s Historic District

I stayed on the edge of downtown and walked in during the day, so I listed attractions by how I found them. Mostly, we just wandered around the live oak-lined streets of Savannah’s historic downtown.

Forsyth Park

This 30-acre park is massive. Its huge, central fountain is one of the most photographed sites in Savannah. Plus, it’s where the farmers market meets on Saturdays, on the southern end. Originally a 10-acre park designed by William Hodgson, the park has expanded to its current size. It now includes tennis and basketball courts to match the expansive lawns and plantings.

Juliette Gordon Low House

The birthplace of the founder of the Girl Scouts, this house is always covered with Girl Scouts. You can usually catch a troop taking a line picture up the front stairs as you walk by the building.

Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist

The facade of this 19th-century Roman Catholic cathedral is impressive, but be sure to get inside and enjoy a few moments of peace. While you’re meditating in a pew, look around and observe the neo-gothic architecture and stained glass windows.

Colonial Park Cemetery

I did not make it to the Bonaventure Cemetery this trip, the famous one from “the Book”. Instead, we poked around the historic city-center burial grounds, first consecrated in 1789. Some founders of the city and the country are laid to rest here. This cemetery is supposedly one of the most haunted places in what is already a haunted city. They close the cemetery at night because of so many strange occurrences that freaked-out tourists.

Waving Girl Statue

Walk down River Street to a waterfront park on the eastern side, and you’ll find the Waving Girl Statue. This honors a woman who lived with her brother, the lighthouse keeper, at the entrance to the Savannah River. Night and day, she made a point of greeting ships with a sheet during the day and a lantern at night.

Sailors throughout the world spread the story of the Waving Girl in the port of Savannah.

When she “retired” from her profession, the city installed this statue to honor her.

Farther Afield from Downtown Savannah

If you’ve got a car, a friend with a boat, or preferably both, you can head farther away from Savannah and explore the natural beauty of the Lowcountry.

Wormsloe Historic Site

The Wormsloe Historic Site features an original island fortification used to defend colonial Savannah from potential Spanish invasions from Florida. The architecture is a style largely lost in Savannah, though it was common at its founding: tabby. Tabby is a crude form of concrete made from oyster shells and lime.

While the views of the marshes are beautiful, the main draw to the site is the long allee of oaks leading to the old fort ruins.

Ossabaw Island and Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge

If you’ve got a friend in the area with a boat, or feel like renting one yourself, you can cruise through the marshes out to Ossabaw Island . One of the largest barrier islands near Savannah, it’s inaccessible by any bridge or causeway.

But that makes it a perfect place for wildlife. The beach closest to the Savannah River fills-up with other boaters looking for a more secluded beach than Tybee Island. But there are long stretches on the ocean side where you won’t see a soul.

Be sure to walk over to the boneyard on the ocean side. There, trees that have been slowly exposed and left to die by the erosive waves still stand, bleaching in the sun.

Like the dead trees, you will experience a lot of exposure to the sun. Plan accordingly.

Where to Eat and Drink in Savannah

Like every other city in the South, Savannah’s food culture is becoming a destination in and of itself.

I was visiting a friend who lives in Savannah, so I got to take advantage of his knowledge of his hometown.

The Public Kitchen and Bar

Located on East Liberty and close to Chippewa and Madison Squares, the Public Kitchen and Bar has mid-century modern decor. But I wasn’t there for the decor: their cocktails and eclectic menu were fantastic. I had a Rhubarb & Tonic, and the Stuffed Chicken Breast; both of which were amazing.

Congress Street Up

Congress Street Up is a unique experience to Savannah. This bar is decorated like a 1920s speakeasy. Visitors are expected to dress to impress as they drink Prohibition-era classics, including big punch bowls that are way stronger than you realize while drinking them.

You’ve been warned.

Foxy Loxy Cafe

Equal parts coffee shop, bakery, and Tex-Mex cantina; Foxy Loxy Cafe on Bull Street between 35th and 36th streets is perfect for breakfast. Especially if you’re close to a sour mood due to caffeine withdrawal. This place will be packed, though, so feel free to wander around looking throughout the house and the outdoor area in back for seating. The walls are covered in local art, as well.

Just stay within earshot of the counter for when they call your order.

Part of the Treylor Park consortium of restaurants, Hitch offers some unique variations of American standard bar fare. My favorite thing we ordered was Avocado Fries. That said, the PB&J chicken wings (tossed in a butter/pecan butter sauce and served with peach jam dipping sauce) were delicious as well.

This is a bit of a drive away from downtown Savannah, but it’s worth the trip, especially at sunset. The Wyld offers casual waterside dining with a focus on seafood. The fish tacos were the perfect amount of food, and we weren’t even disturbed by bugs at prime biting time of the evening.

The Painkiller Slushie was yet another mixed drink that didn’t taste anywhere near as strong as it was.

Loc’s Chicken and Waffles

A local Savannah restaurant, this place knows what it’s famous for, and knows how to serve them well. Be careful about coming on Sundays, as this place can get pretty packed with church-goers. Be sure to have Loc’s chicken and waffles , obviously.

Where to Stay in Savannah

The best area to stay in Savannah is without question the historic downtown area. Seriously, things go downhill the minute you move past the most heavily-trafficked areas of Savannah. But downtown is safe, as the police are busy making sure nothing happens to the goose that laid the golden egg that is tourism. Anywhere between the river and Forsyth park will be perfectly safe, and easily walkable to anything you’re looking to experience downtown.

As far as safety goes, don’t be foolish.

If you’re walking long distances at night, take an Uber or cab. And definitely don’t wander around alone after dark.

But that said, some of the midtown sections of Savannah are quite cute. And unlike Charleston, they’re an easy walk from the historic district.

Within the historic district, there are plenty of options for both Airbnbs as well as hotels. Having been brought-up in the bed and breakfast industry, I’m regularly obliged to support a local innkeeper’s business.

Best Time to Visit Savannah

The best time to visit Savannah is whenever you have the time off.

If you’re looking for a less smart-ass answer, you have a couple times to pick:

Springtime in Savannah

March to July is the best time to visit Savannah. The warm weather helps make the air heavy with the scents of flowers, though not yet heavy with heat and intense humidity of later summer. Because it’s prime time to be here, hotel rates are typically at their highest.

Autumn in Savannah

The best time if you’re looking to save a buck or two is mid-September through mid-November. The weather’s cooling off again, yet hotel rates are likely not as high as in the spring.

Tybee Island: A Coastal Detour

While visiting Savannah, consider taking a day trip to Tybee Island, a popular coastal destination just 18 miles away. Known for beautiful, unique beaches, Tybee Island offers a refreshing detour from the historic charm of Savannah.

Easily accessible from Savannah, Tybee Island is a perfect day trip that allows you to experience a different side of the East Coast. From its stunning beaches to its fascinating maritime history, Tybee Island is a coastal gem you won’t want to miss.

Activities and Attractions on Tybee Island

Tybee Island is home to several beautiful beaches, including:

• North Beach
• South Beach
• Little Tybee
• And Mid Beach

While the beaches are the main draw, Tybee Island also boasts attractions for history and lighthouse buffs. Fort Pulaski National Monument and Tybee Island Lighthouse are worth a visit.

Fort Pulaski, a historical landmark and museum, offers a glimpse into the Civil War and the island’s military history. The Tybee Island Lighthouse, has guided mariners safely into the Savannah River for over 270 years.

Dining Options

On Tybee Island, you’ll find a variety of dining options that showcase the region’s fresh seafood and local flavors. From casual beachside restaurants to upscale eateries, there’s something for every palate.

Some popular restaurants and eateries on Tybee Island include:

• The Crab Shack and Sting Ray’s Seafood for seafood lovers
• Spanky’s Beachside and Fannie’s on the Beach for beachside dining
• And North Beach Bar for a laid-back atmosphere and refreshing drinks

Discovering Charleston’s Rich History

If you’re reading this, you already know that Charleston, South Carolina, is a popular tourist destination. Its cobblestone streets, antebellum homes, and centuries-old churches add to the elegant charm of the Holy City.

Must-Visit Sites in Charleston, SC

A visit to Charleston from Savannah wouldn’t be complete without exploring iconic historic sites, like:

• Rainbow Row , a line of 13 pastel-colored antebellum houses that make for a perfect photo opportunity
• The Battery and White Point Gardens , a beautiful seawall and promenade lined with antebellum homes and palm trees
• And the Ravenel Bridge, a 2.5-mile-long bridge that offers stunning views of the city and is popular for walking and biking
• Historic Charleston City Market , a market complex dating back to the 1790s and listed on the National Register of Historic Places
• Waterfront Park , a great place to relax by the French Quarter

Stroll through the historic district. The mansions, churches, and public buildings showcasing Charleston’s history are worth marveling at.

For history enthusiasts, nearby Charleston museums , Charleston plantations and attractions include:

• Middleton Place
• Boone Hall Plantation
• Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site
• McLeod Plantation Historic Site
• Fort Sumter
• Magnolia Plantation
• And the Charles Pinckney National Historic Site

Culinary Experiences in Charleston, SC

Charleston is famous for its Southern cuisine, making it a food lover’s paradise. Indulge in local favorites like:

• She Crab Soup
• Shrimp and Grits
• And Fried Green Tomatoes

For a truly immersive culinary experience, consider joining one of the many food tours available in Charleston. These guided tours take you to some of the city’s best restaurants and eateries. You’ll get a taste for the flavors of the region while learning about Charleston’s rich culinary history.

Where to Stay in Charleston, SC

The best places to stay in Charleston depend on what you want to experience while you’re here.

The historic downtown Charleston is all about luxury now, but you also get to enjoy being walking distance from everything. Check out our guide to historic downtown Charleston district hotels .

Or check out some of our other guides for:

• Mount Pleasant
• Isle of Palms hotels and resorts
• Folly Beach hotels , close to Folly Beach County Park

Or, road trip from Charleston to Savannah planned, why not check out some other day and road trip from Charleston ideas ?

A few more options include Charleston to Myrtle Beach , north up the coast.

Related Hipster Charleston Guides You May Enjoy:

• Charleston SC to Myrtle Beach: A Scenic Road Trip Adventure
• 19 of the Best Weekend Road Trips from Charleston, SC
• A Hipster’s Guide to Biking in Charleston, SC
• Is Hampton Park in Charleston, SC, Actually Worth a Trip Up Here?

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About the author.

An avid traveler, Colin Pearson loves to settle in an area and discover every little bit of that spot. And having lived on various places on three continents, Charleston, South Carolina, is one of his favorite places he's ever lived.

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Road Trip from Charleston to Savannah

If you're traveling from Charleston, South Carolina to Savannah, Georgia, why not take your time to experience all the amazing sights along the way? These two detours are perfect for travelers looking to get better acquainted with beautiful South Carolina and Georgia.

This road trip from Charleston to Savannah will take you 270 miles and 6 hours and 30 minutes to drive. You'll visit Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, Hunting Island State Park, Hilton Head Island, Moncks Corner, Santee, Columbia, and charming Augusta.

You'll discover South Carolina's beautiful coastline, including the famous Hilton Head Island on the South Carolina Islands Detour. Or, you can travel deep into the state's forests and wetlands before visiting bustling Augusta and artistic Columbia on the Inlands Detour.

How far is Savannah from Charleston, and how long will the road trip take?

The road trip from Charleston to Savannah will take you 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete, covering 150 miles on the most direct route. However, you will be missing out on beautiful sights and experiences if you choose this faster route.

The South Carolina Islands Detour is longer and will cover 270 miles, taking 6 hours and 30 minutes to drive nonstop without accounting for any stops.

Even longer than the South Carolina Islands Detour is The Inlands Detour, which will take 6 hours and 50 minutes to drive and span 340 miles. This route takes you deep into the beautiful forests of South Carolina, stopping in small towns and natural areas along the way.

Although you can easily do this trip in a day, you'll have an unforgettably fun road trip by following one of these detours. Since there's so much to see, we recommend taking two to three days on your way to Savannah.

Best road trip route from Charleston to Savannah

Depending on what you want to see, you'll drive through some of the most beautiful and iconic landscapes of the American South.

The two detour routes take you through equally rich scenery and historical places. Depending on what you want to see, you'll get to explore amazing landscapes and cultural sights regardless of which route you choose.

On the South Carolina Islands Detour, you'll explore the state's coastline as well as its many islands and beaches. Stops include Folly and Edisto Beach, Kiawah and Hilton Head Islands and the beautiful Hunting Island State Park.

However, its smaller roads might be less maintained than the direct route's larger interstates and highways. However, these smaller, winding roads will take you through South Carolina's inspiring green spaces and coastline.

The leisurely Inlands Detour takes you through the beautiful forests of South Carolina, stopping in smaller towns including Moncks Corner, Cross, Santee, Elloree, and Orangeburg. You'll also pass by several lakes including Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie.

South Carolina Islands Detour

From Charleston, take Highway 171 to Folly Beach to enjoy the beautiful white sand. Next, take the short drive to Kiawah Island to play a few rounds at its world-class beachside golf courses.

Next, get back on the road and wind your way over to the lush Edisto Island and explore the town of Edisto Beach. Famous for its reptile zoo, Edisto is sure to be a thrilling place to spend a few hours.

Continue on to Hunting Island State Park and check out its famous lighthouse and beautiful beaches. Once you've gotten your fill of fun in the sun, continue on to Hilton Head Island.

Hilton Head is full of endless beaches, golf courses, and restaurants to explore. From Hilton Head Island, Savannah is only 45 minutes away.

Inland Detour

Take US-52 north from Charleston to the beautiful town of Moncks Corner. Next, on your way to Santee, make a short stop at the lakeside town of Cross.

From here, continue on to Santee. Here, you can explore lakeside trails and picnic areas before driving through the charming towns of Elloree and Orangeburg on your way to Columbia.

After getting to know Columbia's museums and downtown, head southwest on Interstate 20 (I-20) to beautiful Augusta, Georgia. Once in Augusta, enjoy the city's lively art scene and restaurants before making your way to Savannah.

Best places to stop between Charleston and Savannah

Although the direct distance is not very long, you'll want to split this trip up to enjoy all the amazing experiences this region has to offer.

From fun coastal activities to exciting art and food walks, there's plenty of fun and relaxation to enjoy by staying in one of these destinations along the way.

Explore the island life on Hilton Head Island

We recommend breaking up the South Carolina Islands Detour with a restful stop in Hilton Head Island. At just over halfway, Hilton Head is regularly voted as one of the best vacation destinations in the world.

With its celebrated beaches and world-renowned golf courses, this little island is the perfect place to stop overnight after a day exploring the coastline.

Biking and walking trails tie together the many hotels and attractions on this little island. You can easily explore its major attractions like Coligny Beach Park and the Coastal Discovery Museum on foot.

For a luxurious rest during your visit to Hilton Head Island, you cannot go wrong with Inn and Club at Harbour Town . Just a stone's throw away from the white, sandy beaches and boasting beautiful golf courses, this hotel is the perfect place to take a few days to relax.

Enjoy art and culture in Augusta

Just over halfway from Savannah is Augusta, Georgia on the Inland Route. After traveling through smaller towns, Augusta brings a welcome change with its historic architecture and many cultural attractions.

Augusta is famous for its thriving arts community, as well as for being the host city of the Masters Golf Tournament. This city is also celebrated for its rich history and for being the home of several artists, including James Brown and Jessye Norman.

After your long drive through the countryside of South Carolina, there is no better place to spend the night than the Hyatt House Augusta Downtown . Located in the heart of the city, it boasts a fantastic on-site restaurant.

Some rooms are fully equipped with kitchens in case you want to test your skills at making Southern Cuisine.

The hotel is walking distance from many of Augusta's signature attractions like Artists Row, Gensheer's Studios and Gallery, and the Morris Museum of Art. If you need a break from the downtown crowds, walk over to Springfield Village Park.

Where to stay when you reach Savannah

When you arrive in Savannah, Georgia, you'll want somewhere central to relax with luxurious amenities. We recommend the JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District .

Centrally located in the heart of the historic Savannah riverfront, the hotel has three unique buildings that house a full-service spa and several dining options. It's within walking distance of most of Savannah's attractions, including the must-see entertainment district.

When you venture out to explore this beautiful and historic city, you will find the River Street Train Museum, City Market, Franklin Square and Ellis Square within a short distance from the property, which makes it a perfect base as you enjoy your time in Savannah.

Things to see on a road trip from Charleston to Savannah

There's so much to see and do on a road trip from Charleston to Savannah. From historical places and unbeatable nature, you're sure to find several places and activities that make this road trip one of a kind.

The South Carolina Islands Detour

• Angel Oak Tree - This legendary and now Instagram-famous oak tree is over 600 feet tall with a wide canopy of tangled branches.
• Charleston Tea Garden - Perfect for tea lovers, this tea garden is the only one of its kind in North America and admission is free! Take a tour of their tea factory while you're there.
• Dungannon Plantation Heritage Preserve/ Wildlife Management Area - A 643-acre wooded preserve located amidst the rivers and lakes of South Carolina. It has plenty of hikes, hunting, and birdwatching opportunities.
• Edisto Island Serpentarium - For the brave-hearted, this zoo and reptile sanctuary has dozens of snakes and other cold-blooded creatures on display throughout their indoor and outdoor gardens.
• Pon-Pon Chapel of Ease - Take in the ruins of this beautiful and historic facade, which is currently being rebuilt after it incurred damage during a storm in 2020.
• Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park - This celebrated riverfront park offers tons of green space as well as a playground and stage. Perfect for a walk or lunch break.
• Verdier House - Built in 1804, this newly restored grand mansion is a wonderful example of Federal-style architecture. 30 minute tours are available every day except Sunday.
• Victoria Bluff Heritage Preserve - Boasting over 1,100 acres of nature trails, this park offers tons of opportunities for bird-watching and wildlife viewing.

The Inlands Detour

• Santee State Park - Located along the shores of Lake Marion, this well-maintained state park offers lakeside trails and picnic areas.
• Camden Archives and Museum - About half an hour off-route, this local history museum boasts exhibits containing indigenous artifacts and genealogical records.
• Columbia Museum of Art - Boasting a rich collection of permanent contemporary and historic art, this museum in downtown Columbia also offers tours and interesting temporary exhibits.
• Riverbanks Zoo and Garden - Featuring a birdhouse, botanical gardens, a penguin enclosure and reptile galleries, this zoo is full of various animals from around the world.
• South Carolina State Museum - Housed on four floors of a former textile mill, this contemporary museum offers exhibits on a variety of subjects including art, nature, history, and science & technology.
• Redcliffe Plantation State Historic Site - This historic plantation is now a museum dedicated to exploring and showcasing what life was like in the 19th century south, including the legacy and hardships caused by slavery in America.
• Cypress Gardens - This swamp garden is filled with towering cypress trees and has become a favorite Hollywood filming spot. It was featured in the movies The Notebook and Cold Mountain. Take a boat tour of this property before enjoying its exciting butterfly enclosure.
• Bee City Zoo and Honeybee Farm - Offering hands-on and interactive experiences with wildlife ranging from snow leopards to tigers, this zoo is a must-visit for all animal lovers.
• McLeod Plantation Historic Site - Take a walk along the grounds of this massive plantation, complete with a Georgian-style mansion and slave cabins, where you can learn more about this dark period in American history.
• Savannah National Wildlife Refuge - Located just outside of Savannah on the border of Georgia and South Carolina, this 29,000-acre refuge features a visitor center and a 4-mile drive.

Best time to go on a road trip from Charleston to Savannah

While Savannah is certainly beautiful year-round, its hot and humid summers make it a destination best enjoyed during the spring, fall, and winter.

However, this bustling city full of beautiful architecture and southern cuisine offers tons of year-round activities and festivals to keep you entertained and busy during your stay.

Like many parts of the American South, Savannah enjoys incredibly hot and humid summers, with an average daily high temperature above 85 degrees Fahrenheit. This season also brings lots of precipitation and humidity, so make sure to pack accordingly.

While the heat may be oppressive to some, it still brings out tons of celebrations and events. Also, hotels and tours have been known to offer discounts to draw in visitors during these hotter months.

Winter is a great time to visit the city, as the temperatures tend to be a bit more temperate due to the city's proximity to the coast, ranging between 40- and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Savannah is celebrated for its beautiful Christmas decorations, making it a great destination for those looking to get into the holiday spirit in December.

Spring and fall are both wonderful times to discover this historic city. Spring brings the blooming of Savannah's signature pink azaleas and a bevvy of musical events, like the Savannah Stopover Music Festival. It also has pleasant temperatures ranging between 48- and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

Fall sees similar temperatures and a whole host of fun festivals and events. The most famous include the Savannah Film Festival, Bacon Fest, and the Tybee Island Pirate Fest.

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Savannah to Charleston road trip

• Post last modified: March 10, 2024

Don’t miss out on the scenery between Savannah and Charleston by driving the direct, unrewarding 2-hour-or-so route. Instead, embrace the Lowcountry, where history elegantly meets nature, with this beautiful itinerary showing off its salty waterways, estuaries and marshes as well as those tranquil islands and long sand beaches.

Disclosure: All listings are independently selected. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more ›

Route from Charleston to Savannah

• Start: Savannah
• Hilton Head Island
• Kiawah Island
• Finish: Charleston

• Total distance:  173 mi / 278 km
• Total driving time:  4 h

1. Savannah

The magnificent Lowcountry stretches out along South Carolina’s coast. At its southern end, where the state of Georgia begins, charming Savannah knows all about a good ol’ time.

Breathe in Savannah’s historic downtown

On the Savannah River, upriver from the Atlantic Ocean, Savannah’s historic district enchants visitors with its cobblestone streets, antebellum homes and oaks covered in Spanish moss — exactly how you imagine a city in the American South.

Among several pretty park squares, especially be sure to check out Forsyth Park. Its centerpiece, a jaw-dropping fountain, is a great first photo opportunity for your Savannah to Charleston itinerary.

A much livelier venue is the waterfront River Street. Stroll along the vibrant street and browse its abundance of shops, restaurants and bars.

Soak up the sun on Tybee Island

A delightful escape from the buzz, Tybee Island is the beach closest to Savannah. Here — on the Atlantic Ocean, an 18-mile drive from the buzz — unfurl a towel and enjoy a day under the Georgia sun.

From the beach, you can see the 145-foot (44 m) Tybee Island Lighthouse . It’s Georgia’s tallest and oldest lighthouse, which adjoined by a museum adds a dimension to a Tybee Island visit.

On neighboring Cockspur Island, iconic Fort Pulaski National Monument calls for your attention. The Civil War landmark is yet another highlight for history buffs in the Savannah area.

2. Hilton Head Island

• Driving distance: 31 mi / 50 km
• Driving time:  45 min

Picture 12 miles (19 km) of glistening beaches lined by sprawling resorts. Then add world-class golf courses and countless tennis courts — there you have it, Hilton Head Island in a nutshell.

Feel sand between your toes on a Hilton Head beach

Spend some time relishing Hilton Head’s biggest treasure, its shoreline. There’re countless of access points and beach parks available for everyone to take advantage of. A lively favorite, Coligny Beach Park features a long lineup of amenities, including outdoor showers, chair and umbrella rentals and, at nearby Coligny Plaza, an array of eateries and shops.

Go past the facade at the Coastal Discovery Museum

While Hilton Head Island has been developed with several planned communities and resorts, you can still see the island’s old self. Venture past that shiny facade at the Coastal Discovery Museum , a center for preservation, education and celebration of Hilton Head Island.

First, explore the indoor section, presenting how Hilton Head was before it was connected to the mainland in 1956. Then, go outside to hit the 2-mile (3 km) trail, roaming through a slice of the island that, thankfully, remains unchanged.

3. Beaufort

• Driving distance:  35 mi / 56 km

Antebellum homes and oaks draped in Spanish moss welcome you to Beaufort. Southern charm is a key ingredient on this road trip from Savannah to Charleston, and Beaufort is just full of it.

Tour Beaufort’s historic sites

Beaufort is located on Port Royal Island in the very heart of the Lowcountry region. Because of the city’s many mansions from before the American Civil War, its entire downtown area has been designated a historic district.

Explore the history-steeped, oak-framed streets of Beaufort using your own two feet. Or, for something more unique, join a guided horse carriage tour through the cityscape.

Outside the historic district, but within the county, you find additional historic sites to discover. Make sure to pay a visit to the Old Sheldon Church Ruins, beautifully ringed by oak trees.

Venture to undeveloped Hunting Island

Hunting Island lives a quiet life a 15-mile (24 km) drive east of Beaufort. Having been a state park since 1935, the island has managed to remain undeveloped throughout the years.

Immerse yourself in the 5,000 pristine acres of beaches, maritime forests and marshes of Hunting Island State Park — one of those rare places that feels a world away. While doing so, keep an eye out for the landmark Hunting Island Lighthouse, built in 1875 and proudly extending 136 feet (41 m) towards the blue South Carolina sky.

Extra stop: Edisto Island invites you to cruise the 14-mile (23 km) Edisto Island National Scenic Byway, lined by Spanish-moss-draped oak trees, to Edisto Beach. This out-and-back detour adds an hour to your total driving time.

4. Kiawah Island

• Driving distance:  81 mi / 130 km
• Driving time:  1 h 45 min

Arriving on Kiawah Island, you’re met by surprising gates. Most of this Lowcountry slice is occupied by an exclusive resort.

Savor Kiawah Island Golf Resort

Kiawah Island Golf Resort is the gated luxury resort that takes up most of the island. Check in here to be treated with the full Kiawah Island vacation experience.

Guests tend to gravitate towards the beach, of course. Another highlight is the extensive system of paved trails for walking and biking, revealing a river, maritime forests and marshes. Then there are golf courses, tennis courts, restaurants and all the other resort amenities you expect from a top-class island bubble.

Lounge at Beachwalker Park

Kiawah Island boasts a 10-mile (16 km) stretch of prime Atlantic coastline. Although a majority of Kiawah Island is private, not all of it is: The public can access the shoreline at Beachwalker Park , on Kiawah’s western end. If you, as a non-resort guest, want to see more of the island, just walk or bike east along the coastline from there.

5. Charleston

• Driving distance:  26 mi / 42 km

South Carolina’s beloved Charleston is the perfect place to round off your Lowcountry road trip. Put on your favorite walking shoes and tour a city absolutely brimming with history.

Walk Charleston’s historic district

Upriver from the Atlantic Ocean, where the Ashley River and Cooper River meet, Charleston Historic District unfurls like a living museum.

Overlooking Charleston Harbor, the Battery is a seawall and scenic promenade lined by antebellum homes and palm trees. As you walk along it, gaze out across the water at Fort Sumter, the historic offshore fort where the first shots of the Civil War were fired.

Along East Bay Street, between Tradd Street and Elliott Street, all from young influencers to seasoned history buffs swarm the Rainbow Row. These 13 pastel-colored row-houses dating to the 1700s and 1800s create a quintessential Charleston photo opportunity.

Visit the Charleston plantations

The plantations in Charleston are like windows into the past. Although they are located a drive away from Charleston’s historic district, you reach several within 30 minutes’ drive.

Along Ashley River, northwest of downtown Charleston, you find not one or two but three historic Charleston plantations: Drayton Hall, Magnolia Plantation and Middleton Place line up in unparalleled fashion.

Northeast of downtown Charleston, another awe-inspiring plantation is the Boone Hall plantation. Having produced crops for over 320 years, Boone Hall prides itself on being one of America’s oldest still-working farms.

Between such beautiful plantations, it’s not easy to pick a winner. Each one certainly is a memorable addition to your Savannah to Charleston road trip itinerary.

Where to stay

Charleston’s historic district puts you in the first row for sightseeing, but zooming out can help stretch your road trip budget.

• Harbourview Inn – Facing the harbor.
• Andrew Pinckney Inn – High coziness factor.

Add one more: Want to finish the road trip from Savannah to Charleston with some more quality beach time? If so, Folly Beach calls your name. It’s just a 12-mile (19 km) drive from the historic heart of Charleston to the barefoot South Carolina heaven.

Savannah to Charleston road trip FAQ

This ultimate Savannah to Charleston road trip is 173 miles (278 km) long, taking 4 hours. Add extra time for the stops you make along the way.

The direct route from Savannah to Charleston, via I-95 and Highway 17, is just 107 miles (172 km) with a driving time of about 2 hours. However, if you take it, you miss out on much of the Lowcountry scenery.

Be sure to stop at Hilton Head Island, Beaufort and Kiawah Island.

There’s a beach for everyone on the way from Savannah to Charleston. Enjoy the lovely shorelines of Tybee Island, Hilton Head Island, Hunting Island, Kiawah Island and Folly Beach.

For the best experience, we recommend having a week or more available. Then you not only get to see the sights but also have time to embrace the relaxed Lowcountry lifestyle.

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Thanks for a great itinerary (saving me the hard work). We’ll use this one for our March drive.

A pleasure. Have a great road trip!

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How to Have the Best Trip From Charleston, SC, to Savannah, GA

Sometimes you need a getaway no matter where you’re from. Whether you’re looking to have a romantic weekend with your special someone or explore somewhere new with a good friend, a road trip from Charleston, SC to Savannah, GA, is an excellent choice. This trip is just a two-hour drive along U.S. Route 17 and I-95. Make sure to explore every crevice of history, beauty, and comfort food that the city has to offer. Then, complete your getaway by experiencing true Southern hospitality when you stay with us at the Inn on West Liberty. Our inn is just five minutes from downtown Savannah!

Your Ultimate Guide for the Best Trip from Charleston, SC, to Savannah, GA

The best route.

You’ve packed your bags, gassed up the car, and tuned into your favorite radio station. Now, hop onto U.S. Route 17 and make the downward curve toward I-95 that takes you straight to Savannah. At this point, you may have already made a list of things to do in Savannah. Or, maybe you haven’t. Either way, we’ve got the ultimate bucket list covered for you. Clocking at just around two hours, this is the most direct route for your road trip. The drive is short enough that you definitely don’t have to stop for food, but if you get a craving…

Where to Stop Along the Way

Gardens Corner, SC, is the halfway point between Charleston and Savannah. Gardens Corner is blooming with greenery and has no shortage of Southern eateries. Red Rooster Cafe looks like nothing more than a small, stone building from the outside; inside, the cafe is adorned with fern-green walls and antique decor. It also serves some of the best comfort food around. Red Rooster is only open until 3 p.m., though, so be sure to plan accordingly!

Places to Visit

Upon arrival, visit the Savannah Historic District in the heart of the city. Visually, the historic district appears cinematic with cobblestone streets lined with moss-covered trees. Beyond its beauty, Savannah is full of history , arts and culture . If you’re just looking to relax on your getaway, Tybee Island beach is 30 minutes from the historic district and offers the tranquility of warm, ultramarine waters, and golden sands.

Things to See

Most research about Savannah yields an image of a gated fountain, enclosed by moss trees down a cobblestone path. That’s Forsyth Park, a must-see on your trip. Although there are many landmarks to see in Savannah , Forsyth Park is one of the most famous. Because you’re visiting from Charleston, compare Forsyth’s Park and its fountain to Charleston’s Waterfront Park and its Pineapple Fountain. Don’t worry, we won’t tell if you like ours better.

Eats and Treats

While Charleston is a city best-known for its Southern fare, even the Holy City admits that Savannah hosts some of the best restaurants . Charlestonians recommend Elizabeth on 37th for seasonal provisions from handwritten cookbooks in a formal setting. Or, stop by Lulu’s Chocolate Bar for a solid or liquid dessert. Serving everything from Belgian chocolate-dipped strawberries to pineapple upside-down martinis, Lulu’s is the perfect spot to unwind before heading back to your room.

Where to Stay in Savannah, GA

The Inn on West Liberty’s innkeepers, Patty and Suzy Homer, have a passion for Savannah runs deep. This flows into making sure that every guest at their inn has the most comfortable experience possible. Choose from seven guest rooms or the Garden Villa. Each of these options offers extensive accommodations to practice Southern hospitality by offering breakfast , afternoon tea, wine, and hors d’oeuvres .

For your trip from Charleston SC, to Savannah, GA, we recommend our Oglethorpe Square room. This penthouse room features a king-size bed and a sectional sofa if you’re traveling with a few guests. Ready for a beautiful change of scenery and to experience all the Southern charm that Savannah has to offer? Check out our accommodations and book today !

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Epic 9-Day Southeast Road Trip Itinerary to Savannah, Charleston, and Asheville

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At the beginning of 2020, I planned a trip to Scotland with my husband in October to celebrate our first anniversary. We had booked our hotels, planned our itinerary, and were checking every day for flight deals until the coronavirus came to town. 

Covid-19 disrupted many of our travel plans! Although I was disappointed that we could no longer visit Scotland for our anniversary trip, I realized that this was my golden opportunity to explore parts of the USA that I had never had the chance to before. When it was time to book our trip, we started searching for destinations that travel restrictions would allow us to visit. And somehow, we came across the idea of a southeast road trip to Savannah, Charleston, and Asheville. 

I’ll be honest. This southeast road trip was never on my travel radar until we had to make alternate plans due to Covid. But let me tell you—I am so glad that we decided to take this trip! I fell in with Savannah, Charleston, and Asheville during our southeast road trip. Honestly, in a weird way, I am grateful Covid disrupted our international travel plans. If not, we never would have taken this fantastic road trip! 

Disclosure: Some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links, meaning that I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase at no additional cost to you. This helps me keep the content on my website free for you to enjoy!

Why You Should Go On a Southeast Road Trip

There are so many things to love about a southeast road trip to Savannah, Charleston, and Asheville. 

Both Savannah and Charleston are drenched in history, southern charm, and so much to do and see. Although both cities are similar, they are different enough to pair on the same southeast road trip. 

• Charleston  is a larger, spread-out city with tons of activities and fantastic day trips to experience in the surrounding area. 
• Savannah  is a quaint, hospitable city with lots of local charm and an amazing foodie scene. You don’t even need a car to enjoy all that Savannah has to offer—you can easily walk from one end of the Historic District to the other. 
• And then there is  Asheville —the quirky town in the Blue Ridge Mountains known for its fantastic breweries, gorgeous views, and of course, the Biltmore Estate!  

Pairing these three cities together on a southeast road trip is perfect because you get to experience a little bit of everything that this area of the country has to offer. One day, you can relax on a warm, sunny beach on the coast of South Carolina, and the next, you’ll be enjoying the crisp mountain air during a hike in the mountains of North Carolina. It offers great diversity! 

Recommended Southeast Road Trip Itinerary  

Savannah, georgia  , three days  .

Fly into the Savannah Hilton Head Airport to kick off your southeast road trip in Georgia! 

I absolutely fell in love with Savannah’s mossy oaks and southern charm. It’s the perfect place to spend the first three days of your southeast road trip because you won’t need to rent a car. Everything in Historic Savannah (and on this list!) is less than a 30-minute walk away. 

Top Things to See and Do in Savannah  

• Explore Savannah’s  22 squares —including Savannah’s largest park,  Forsyth Park . 
• Get spooked on a haunted  ghost tour —but before you visit, check out my blog post about the six most haunted places in Savannah ! 
• Walk down Savannah’s Waterfront on  River Street —and consider going on a Savannah Riverboat cruise (this  riverboat cruise  is a great choice!) on the Savannah River. 
• Visit  City Market —and check out the Prohibition Museum and the Georgia Tasting Room for a $3 wine tasting when you’re there! 
• Tour the  Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist —this magnificent church was built in the 1700s and is one of Savannah’s most recognizable landmarks. 
• Go shopping—The  Paris Market ,  Savannah Bee Company , and  E. Shavers Booksellers  are all fun places I would recommend stopping by! 

Top Places to Eat in Savannah  

• Enjoy brunch at  Mirabelle Savannah  or  Collins Quarter  
• Indulge in an upscale, southern dinner at  The Olde Pink House  
• Stop by  Huey’s  for some fresh-baked beignets. Mmm! 
• Grab a unique (but delicious!) dinner & drinks at  Treylor Park . 
• Stop for coffee and a macaron at  The Paris Market Café  
• Savor a scoop of ice cream at  Leopold’s Ice Cream —a Savannah staple for over 100 years! 

Where to Stay in Savannah  

• The DeSoto Savannah   is located in the center of Historic Savannah. You’ll love the chandeliers in the lobby, the rooftop pool, and the amazing views from the upper room levels!  
• The Hamilton-Turner Inn   is a quaint and cozy bed & breakfast in Historic Savannah that inspired Walt Disney’s haunted mansion. 
• The Marshall House   has been repeatedly ranked one of the most haunted hotels in the United States—stay here for a spooky experience! 

Read More on Savannah

• 12 Charming Things to Do in Savannah, GA 
• 14 Best Places to Eat in Savannah, GA 
• 6 Most Haunted Places in Savannah 

Charleston, South Carolina  

Rent a car in Savannah and take the US-17 North and I-95 North to Charleston to continue your southeast road trip – 107 miles .

Charleston is filled to the brim with exciting history and memorable things to do. Even though Downtown Charleston is walkable, you’ll want to keep your car to take advantage of the nearby day trips from Charleston during your southeast road trip. 

Top Things to See and Do in Charleston  

• Snap a picture at the  Pineapple Fountain  in Waterfront Park and historic  Rainbow Row . 
• Relax on the beach at  Kiawah Island ,  Folly Beach , or  Sullivan’s Island . 
• Visit  Boone Hall Plantation  to take in the beautiful scenery and architecture while learning more about Charleston’s history. Exploring Charleson’s historical sites is one of the top items that should be on your USA Bucket List !
• Step onboard the USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier, USS Laffey Destroyer, and USS Clamagore Submarine at  Patriot’s Point . 
• See where the Civil War began at  Fort Sumter National Monument .  
• Discover how tea is made at North America’s only tea garden—the  Charleston Tea Plantation —and stop to see  Angel Oak Tree  on your way! 
• Stroll through  City Market  to shop for a souvenir—this historic market has been in operation since the 1700s! 

Top Places to Eat in Charleston  

• Enjoy brunch at  Poogan’s Porch  (the best chicken and waffles ever!) or  Miller’s All Day  
• Make a reservation at  Husk  to enjoy the gorgeous ambiance and delicious southern food in a historic home! 
• Enjoy a cocktail, coffee, or dessert at  Carmella’s —an Italian-inspired dessert bar. 
• Check out  Prohibition  for a speakeasy-style restaurant with a great menu & unique cocktails. 

Where to Stay in Charleston  

• The Mills House  is a bright pink hotel located in the heart of Charleston that is just as gorgeous on the outside as it is on the inside. 
• The Vendue   is an artsy, upscale Downtown Charleston hotel with an amazing rooftop bar! 
• Private Marshfront Studio —We loved staying in this Airbnb during our trip to Charleston. Airbnb’s are a great option if you have a car so that you won’t have to pay expensive hotel parking fees. 

Read More   on Charleston

• 12 Best Day Trips from Charleston, SC 
• Charleston vs. Savannah: Which Southern City to Visit?

Asheville, North Carolina  

Take the I-26 West from Charleston to Asheville to continue your southeast road trip – 267 miles .

Get ready to trade in the small-town southern charm of Savannah and Charleston for Asheville—an eclectic tucked deep within the Blue Ridge Mountains. You might know Ashville for the Blue Ridge Parkway, Biltmore Estate, and the brewery scene in Downtown Asheville, but even more to do in Asheville than what meets the eye! It’s the perfect stop to complete your southeast road trip.

Top Things to See and Do in Asheville  

• Spend a day at the  Biltmore Estate —a stunning 250-room French Renaissance château nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. 
• Take a  beer tour   through Downtown Asheville, known as Beer City USA, for having the highest number of breweries per capita in the United States. 
• Enjoy hiking through one of Asheville’s many  spectacular hiking trails .  Catawba Falls Trail ,  Craggy Pinnacle Trail , and  Mount Pisgah Trail  are just a few popular hikes in the area. 
• Take a scenic drive through the  Blue Ridge Mountains  for incredible views. 

Top Places to Eat in Asheville  

• Put some “South in Your Mouth” at  Biscuit Head , a local favorite for brunch. 
• Order some homemade doughnuts and handcrafted coffee at  Vortex Doughnuts . Their caramel syrup is made in-house, and it’s amazing! 
• Stop at  Rocky’s Hot Chicken  to enjoy a Cheerwine slushie (a North Carolina staple!) and the best Nashville hot chicken you’ll find outside Nashville!
• Try some delicious, vinegary Carolina BBQ at  Buxton Hall BBQ.  
• Grab a sweet treat at  French Broad Chocolate . 
• Visit  Wicked Weed Funkatorium, New Belgian Brewing Company,  or  Green Man Brewery  for a beer. 

Where to Stay in  Asheville  

• The Inn on Biltmore Estate  is a luxury hotel on Biltmore Estate with an on-site spa, heated pool, and fine-dining restaurants. 
• Courtyard Asheville Biltmore Village  is a modern, comfortable, clean, budget-friendly stay located about a mile from the Biltmore Estate. 
• Elegant Weaverville Guest Suite —This Airbnb is super affordable, clean, and in a great location just north of Asheville. We loved staying here because it was tucked away in the mountains and offered easy access to hiking in the area! 

Read More  on Asheville

• 9 Helpful Tips for Visiting the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC 

Let’s Hit the Road!

And there you have it! I hope this post helps you plan an unforgettable nine-day southeast road trip through Charleston, Savannah, and Asheville! This area of the country truly exceeded my expectations, and I know you’ll have an amazing time. Let me know which of these stops is your favorite!

Pin this Post about the “Best Southeast Roadtrip” for Later!

About the Author

Brittany Sawyer

Hi, I'm Brit! I'm a writer from Phoenix, AZ who loves coffee, golden retriever puppies, and obviously, travel! I help ordinary women (like me!) dream, plan, and do extraordinary travel experiences.

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Charleston vs. Savannah: Which Should You Visit?

Charleston and Savannah are two charming destinations in the Southeast, and they’re only two hours apart. Many people visit both cities in the same trip, but if you’re short on time, you may be looking to pick one over the other.

I’m a travel blogger who visited both Charleston and Savannah in January 2023 on a family trip (my parents, my brother, and me). Here’s my honest comparison of these two cities.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning that I may earn a small commission on any purchases through these links, at no extra cost to you. This income keeps my blog running and is much appreciated!

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Charleston has a population of 151,612, while Savannah is home to 147,088 residents. The cities are extremely close in population, but Charleston covers a larger area at 157 square miles compared to Savannah’s 113 square miles.

Both cities are large enough to have plenty to do, but small enough to still feel manageable and charming. For size, it’s pretty much a tie between Charleston and Savannah.

Cost of living calculators say that Charleston is about 20% more expensive than Savannah. We found this to be true in terms of housing and restaurants.

My family of four spent $480 for 3 nights in a 2-bed apartment about 2 miles from downtown Charleston. This was one of the cheapest Airbnbs I saw, and it’s now actually over three times more expensive than when we stayed there (it could be seasonality?).

We spent around $600 for 4 nights in a 2-bed apartment about 1 mile from downtown Savannah. This apartment rental is also more expensive as of mid-Spring, so it’s looking like you can save a lot of money by going in the winter.

Pro tip: if you see something you like on Airbnb, but it’s clearly run by a hotel or agency, look up the company on Google. We saved a few hundred dollars by booking the Savannah apartment on their website instead of Airbnb. I linked the Savannah apartment rental direct website above to save you money, even though it’s not an affiliate link. If you stay there and enjoy it and want to contribute back to this site, you’re always welcome to buy me a virtual coffee .

If you do plan to use VRBO or Booking.com though, it would mean a lot if you clicked through my links! Here are the top hotels in Charleston and Savannah . In particular, you may like The Present Hotel in downtown Savannah, which is run by the same company of the apartment where we stayed.

For meals, we could usually find good “mid-tier” food for $20 per person, including tax and tip. Portions felt kind of small at a couple places we went in Charleston, but it really depends on the restaurant. If you want seafood, be prepared to spend closer to $25-30 per person.

If you like seafood, there are more options in Charleston since it’s right by the ocean and has more beach towns in proximity. If you need a recommendation, my family ate at Charleston Crab House , and my dad enjoyed the flounder. They were one of the only seafood places to have a vegetarian option (pasta). Since my parents wanted seafood, but my brother and I wanted veggie food, we ended up here. The pasta was nice and garlicky, though it was also really buttery and salty.

If you prefer ethnic food, Savannah has higher-quality and more authentic options, in my opinion. My family tends to eat ethnic food on vacation, and we had a much better experience in Savannah. Our personal favorite was Flying Monk Noodle Bar , an Asian fusion restaurant where we actually ate twice in our four days there.

For my plant-based friends, I would also recommend Savannah over Charleston. Some memorable options were Fox & Fig , a vegan cafe, and Java Burrito , kind of like a nicer version of Chipotle.

At Fox & Fig, make sure to get the Plant Food Picnic, which is basically a vegan charcuterie board—we didn’t get it since it was pretty expensive, but we regretted not getting it since it could’ve easily been split between two people. Java Burrito had Beyond Meat and lots of other cool toppings, like mango salsa. If you eat meat, I’d also recommend Java Burrito since they have meat and local seafood options.

Transportation/Walkability

The Charleston International Airport is about three times larger than the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, serving 4.5 million passengers annually vs. Savannah’s 1.6 million. You’re more likely to be able to find direct flights to Charleston than Savannah, and more likely to find cheaper flights.

Within the cities, Savannah wins on transportation, as they have a free bus called the DOT Shuttle , which can take you from residential Savannah to many tourist sites. The bus runs fairly frequently, though keep in mind that it stops running at 7pm on weekdays and Saturday, and 6pm on Sundays.

When my family was in Savannah, we took the DOT Shuttle several times in and out of the city, and it was super convenient.

Walkability-wise, Savannah also wins. Savannah’s major tourist attractions are more concentrated in a few major streets and squares. Charleston is still very walkable (we walked everywhere), but there’s a bit more spread.

Things to Do

To help you decide between Charleston and Savannah, here are some top things to do in each city, so you can see which better suits your tastes.

Things to Do in Charleston

Downtown Charleston is more spread out than downtown Savannah. There are pockets of the city that feel more modern, with chain retailers and taller buildings, and other sections that feel more charming and historic, with colorful houses and European-inspired architecture.

City Market —This historic market stretches four blocks blog. It features art, food, and souvenirs, including several sweetgrass basket stands, which are a local specialty.

Joe Riley Waterfront Park —Stroll through this park by the ocean. There are plenty of photo ops, including the famous pineapple fountain, swinging benches, and shaded walkways.

Rainbow Row —This photo-worthy street is lined with pastel-colored houses from the 1700s.

The Battery —Walk on top of the seawall for views of the ocean on one side and beautiful homes on another.

South Carolina Aquarium —This aquarium features the deepest tank in North America. They also have a sea turtle rehab center.

King Street —This major shopping street has three divisions: design, fashion, and antique.

Broad Street —Admire the well-preserved 18th-century architecture, grab a bite to eat, or visit the historic sites.

Things to Do in Savannah

Savannah has more of a uniform feel than Charleston, and the city gives off a charming, small-town vibe while still having plenty to do. If you like parks and greenery, there’s plenty of that in Savannah, along with a variety of cuisines and local boutiques (for my fellow slow fashion enthusiasts, there are way more thrift/vintage shops in Savannah than Charleston).

Forsyth Park —This park is like the like the Central Park of Savannah. Take photos at the fountain, browse through artist stands, stroll under the Spanish moss-covered trees, and visit the Saturday farmer’s market.

Historic squares —Savannah is home to 22 squares peppered across the city. Many have monuments, fountains, and benches. In fact, Forrest Gump’s bench was in Chippewa Square. While the bench was just a movie prop, you can visit the monument in the background.

Prohibition Museum —This is the first and only museum dedicated to the history of Prohibition, when alcohol was banned from 1920-1933. There are artifacts, info panels, wax figures, and more. I visited and had fun learning a lot; here’s my review .

Cathedral of St. John the Baptist —admire this beautiful Roman Catholic cathedral.

Historic River Street —You can’t miss this cobblestone street along the river. It’s lined with candy shops (including the famous pralines!) and souvenir shops.

Broughton Street —This major street is bustling with restaurants and boutiques. Try super-popular Leopold’s Ice Cream, which even has vegan options, and drop by The Paris Market for antiques and charming housewares.

Secondhand clothing/bookstores —maybe because of the local art students at SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design), Savannah feels more hipster and has more thrift shops and independent bookstores. For clothing, Avalon Exchange had the best prices and the largest selection of the handful of thrift/vintage shops I visited. For books, E Shaver Booksellers had a variety of new and classic reads, plus cute cats!

Nearby Attractions

When it comes to nearby attractions, Charleston wins. There are more unique options, such as the Charleston Tea Garden and 400-year-old Angel Oak Tree. If you want to learn more about Southern history, there are also more former plantation sites near Charleston.

Things to Do Near Charleston

Charleston Tea Garden —Visit the only commercial tea garden in North America. There are free samples and a free factory tour. You can also pay for a trolley tour of the grounds. This was a fun stop, and I learned some interesting facts. For example, did you know that all tea (green, black, jasmine, etc.) is made from the same type of leaf ? The leaves are just processed differently.

Angel Oak Tree —This massive tree is estimated to be 400+ years old. It’s free to visit and worth a stop on the way to the Charleston Tea Garden. There are rules in place to preserve the tree, so don’t plan to bring any tripods, blankets, or props.

McLeod Plantation —There are many other plantations near Charleston, but this one is best-known for focusing on the history and not doing events like weddings.

Folly Beach —Soak up some sun in this classic beach town. The pier is impressive, stretching longer than half a mile into the water.

Fort Sumter —This island fort is where the Civil War officially began. Tickets include the ferry ride to the island and the entry fee. Once on the island, you can explore it on your own and hear rangers tell stories about this first battle.

Things to Do Near Savannah

Hilton Head Island —About 45 minutes from Savannah, this popular summer vacation destination known for beaches, golfing, bike trails, shopping, and its forest preserve.

Wormsloe Historic Site —This former plantation is known for its 1.5-mile drive lined with live oaks. This area is more of a state park than a historic site, and there’s not much information about the people who were enslaved here. Mcleod Plantation near Charleston provides much more history, and you can see the old plantation home and cabins.

Bonaventure Cemetery —Cemeteries may not be your idea of fun, but Bonaventure is a historic cemetery from the 1800s full of impressive monuments, beautiful flowers, and Spanish moss-covered trees.

Tybee Island —For a more small-town beach community, visit Tybee Island, which has a lighthouse and marine science center.

Near Both Cities

In both areas, dolphin tours, fossil tours, kayaking, and paddle boarding are common activities. We went on a dolphin tour with Charleston Outdoor Adventures , and we saw several dolphins and other wildlife. For a dolphin tour near Savannah, try this highly-rated one on Tybee Island .

Make sure to pick a tour operator that keeps a distance from any wildlife and does not feed them.

The Bottom Line

While I preferred Savannah, I’ll admit that there’s generally more to do in and around Charleston. It feels more like a modern city in certain areas, all while still having that old time charm in other areas. You get lovely ocean views, local and chain shops, and unique attractions nearby. The historic houses in Charleston are also more impressive, if you’re interested in architecture.

On the flip side, Savannah is more walkable and has more greenery with its many squares. Since it has a large student population, you’ll also find more hipster shops, such as thrift stores, independent bookstores, and boutiques. It also had better and more affordable ethnic food, in my experience. There’s not a single restaurant I tried in Charleston that was that memorable, but there were definitely a few places in Savannah I really enjoyed.

I’m glad I had the chance to visit both cities, and I’d encourage you to try to see both in the same trip if you have four full days or more. You could spend a day in each city and two days exploring the nearby sites (and then have half or full travel days). My family’s trip was a full week including travel, and I felt that six days would’ve been ideal since it was starting to feel long.

If you don’t have enough time to see both, I’d personally recommend Savannah and would love to visit again. While I liked Charleston, it just didn’t resonate with me the same way, and I wouldn’t be that interested in going back. Of course, this all depends on personal tastes. I’d still recommend Charleston to you if it feels more aligned with what you like.

Looking for more in-depth articles of either city? Here’s my Charleston weekend itinerary and my Savannah weekend itinerary .

Feel free to leave any questions in the comments, and let us know your thoughts if you end up visiting one or the other (or both!).

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Discover the best that Southern USA has to offer! Hidden gems, vibrant cities and more!

Savannah or Charleston: Which City Is Right For You?

March 18, 2021 //  by  Southern Trippers

Are you looking to choose between visiting Savannah or Charleston ? We have put together a list to help you choose in your decision between Savannah vs Charleston!

These two southern cities are often referred to as sister cities. Both have a deep history dating back to the 1600 and 1700’s playing a role in shaping the history of both Georgia and South Carolina. Each city brings gorgeous views of the water, cobblestone streets, moss-covered trees, and southern hospitality with beautiful hotels and a wide variety of delicious restaurants.

Both cities have a walkable historic downtown, and the best part is they are only two hours apart so you can visit both Savannah and Charleston and see which you like best!

How Far Is Savannah to Charleston?

How Far is Savannah to Charleston is a popular question! The cities are just over 100 miles away from each other with Charleston being located north of Savannah. The driving distance between the two cities is just about 2 hours, depending on which highway you take! Meaning you can visit both on the same trip and see which you like better!

Why Choose Either Savannah Or Charleston?

When it comes to choosing between Savannah or Charleston you can look at factors like time and distance. If you are coming from Florida, Savannah will be closer while if coming from North Carolina, Charleston will be closed. Accommodation costs can be higher in Charleston, while in Savannah you can find lower cost hotels. The dining scene in Charleston is more varied but Savannah is beginning catching up. Savannah is known for more of a bar and nightlife scene while Charleston has several craft breweries. Or choose based on your interests both offer walkability downtown ,historical sights and museums.

You May Love Charleston If…

You may love to visit Charleston if you are looking for a costal city where you can enjoy the beaches just a few minutes from downtown, amazing dining and restaurant scene, a big city feel while still having tons of history in this southern town.

You May Love Savannah If…

If you are looking for a city that has southern charm, a walkable historic downtown area and riverfront, plenty of bars and restaurants this is the city for you! There are numerous museums both of historical importance and art, as well as nearby Tybee island for a beach escape!

Food In Savannah

While Savannah didn’t used to be known as a foodie destination, in recent years the city has stepped up. James Beard award winning restaurant The Grey is known for modernizing southern cuisine. The city cuisine expansion has exploded. The area near the river is known for its restaurants as much as its known for its bars ( making it a great city for those looking to drink and eat!)

From popular Olde Pink House, The Grey , Original Crab Shack, mrs. Wilkes Dining room are a few of the most popular in town! There are also so many cute places for breakfast in Savannah as well as coffee in Savannah!

Food In Charleston

Charleston is considered one the premier foodie destinations in the South with a large variety of cuisines offered! With a rich culinary history, James Beard Award winning restaurants using fresh and local ingredients Charleston wins the award for best city to go if looking to eat in the “Low country”.

From popular Jackrabbit Filly, Rodney Scott BBQ, Husk, Fig, Ordinary, and are a few of the favorites in town!

Things To Do In Savannah

Savannah is a great city for history lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, shoppers and art lovers alike! Everyone can find something in Savannah they enjoy .

For those who love history explore the numerous historical town squares and parks some with historical statues like popular Forsynth park, Wormsloe State Historic Site, Bonaventure cemetery or the Cathedral of St John the Baptist. If you are looking for outdoor activities you can stroll along the riverfront, walk through the historical district admiring the architecture and gorgeous moss covered trees and cobblestone roads.

For foodies and shoppers headed to Broughton Street or the River Street where shops and restaurants line the roads! Or take a drink to go while shopping or just wandering around Savannah. 

Things To Do In Charleston

Charleston is a quintessential southern port city! With gorgeous views of the harbor, beaches galore nearby, historic homes and museums plus it’s considered on the premier food destinations in the United States! 

Take a walk around the battery on the southern tip of the harbor for amazing views and historical homes, head to angel oak tree one of the most photographed spots in Charleston, visit one of the craft breweries in town or indulge in a few meals at some of the restaurants in town! Or visit one of the many museums or historical sights located throughout the downtown area.

History and Museums in Savannah

Savannah was “founded” in 1733 when General James Oglethorpe ship Anne landed on the Savannah River naming Georgia the final 13th colony. The first city in Georgia had a stories history as America’s first planned city – which you can notice in the plethora of cities squares and easy to follow grid street system. 

As one of the oldest cities in the US, Savannah has a diverse history over the last almost 300 years. Head to Wormsloe State Historic Site to see the oldest structure in Savannah, the  Telfair arts museum, Jepson Modern Art Museum, the Davenport house that shows 19th century Georgia living, and the Savannah history museum with artifacts dating back to 1733. If you head out to Tybee Island make sure to visit Old Fort Jackson. 

History and Museums in Charleston

Charleston is one of the oldest cities in the US. It was in 1670 that captain Joseph West landed at Albemarle Point in South Carolina and was named Charles town after King Charles II. The city I softened referred to as a living museum with a stories history over 300 years old as a flourishing port town through history of Revolutionary and Civil Wars.  

Start with a visit to the Charleston museum where you can fully immerse yourself in the history of Charleston with artifacts dating back to 1733 you can continue with a visit to the Old Slave Mark Museum where slaves were bought and sold after the slave ban of 1808. Or visit Fort Sumter National Monument .

Visit one of the historical homes such as Nathaniel Russell to view what life was like in Charleston during Antebellum period or take a visit or the Aquarium that showcases local South Carolina aquatic life. Or visit the Gibbs Art Museum one of the oldest in the country.  In a battle of Charleston vs Savannah Charleston wins for having a more stories history and a plethora of museums.

Beaches Near Savannah

In just about 30 minutes from downtown Savannah you can be on the beach. Tybee Island is a barrier island with over 5 miles of oceanfront beach making it the perfect place for a day trip when visiting Savannah.

A little further from the Savannah area is Hilton Head Beach in South Carolina just an hour away! Hilton Head is considered one of the best family friendly beaches in the country and like Tybee Island is a barrier island.

Beaches Near Charleston

If beaches are what you are looking for when trying to decide between Savannah or Charleston , Charleston wins! Charleston is located on the coast and has 5 beautiful beach towns all within a short drive.

This area of South Carolina connects you to Kiawah Island with over 10 miles of unspoiled beaches and untouched nature preserves, Folly beach is the closest beach to downtown Charleston and perfect for families, Sullivan’s Island, Isle of Palm is just 12 miles and has beautiful golf courses near the beach and Seabrook Island.

Day Trips from Savannah

If looking to head to the beach, popular day trips from Savannah include a visit to nearby Tybee Island just 30 minutes away or Hilton Head beach just an hour away.

At just two hours away you can also visit nearby Charleston on the South Carolina coast. Another popular day trip is to nearby Beaufort known for one of the first Civil War cemeteries and many Antebellum homes. The the is a wildlife refuge park about 20 minutes from downtown and admission is free!

Day Trips from Charleston

Some of the most popular day drips from Charleston include Kiawah Island. While Charleston is located on the coast, Kiawah is a golf and spa lovers dream! Or you can always drive two hours south to explore Savannah!

If looking for a small town head to Wadmalaw Island just a 30 minute drive where you can visit a tea plantation and winery. Or head to Columbia the state’s capital and also home to Congaree National park the only national park in South Carolina.

Hotels in Savannah

The hotels in Savannah are mostly congregated around the historic downtown area and riverfront or in the area around Forsynth park. Almost every major hotel chain has properties located within the historic downtown area.

For those looking for more boutique hotels you are in luck, from luxury boutique properties from the major hotel chains, to smaller local properties there is a hotel at every price point. For the truly budget-conscious traveler you can stay near I-95 and drive into town!

Hotels in Charleston

When comparing the hotels scene from Savannah vs Charleston, Charleston is a bigger city and thus more spread out when it comes to accommodation. From the Charleston harbor across the Cooper River, to the historic downtown area and Charleston waterfront to the beachfront areas there are a ton of options just like in Savannah.

From boutique hotels in Charleston and local inns to major chains there are plently of hotel options in each area at a variety of price points for travelers.

Walkability in Savannah

When comparing which city is more walkable, Savannah or Charleston, Savannah wins. The historic downtown area is more compact at only about a mile and as such you will not need a car ( plus parking is difficult to find or expensive in the garages.)

There are over 20 parks and town squares, a 2 mile paved riverwalk where you can stop in and shop and eat a variety of restaurants, as well as the added benefit of being allowed to roam with open container of alcohol.

Walkability in Charleston

The downtown area of Charleston is extremely walkable, but to explore other areas of the city such as the harbor, or nearby beaches a car is necessary to get around. Or you can always opt for ride sharing options.

While the city is not as compact as Savannah, if you want to stick to the downtown area you can explore different walking routes depending on your interests.

Instagram Spots In Savannah

Savannah has a plethora of instagram spots throughout the city. From the cobblestone roads leading to the river, moss covered trees in the town squares, beautiful historic building, and gorgeous restaurants the options are limitless.

Just one block off the river you will find Rainbow Row a collection of Victorian homes perfect for a photoshoot with its pink shutters and beautiful stairways. If you are feeling in the mood for a French vibe head to the Paris Market on Broughton Street voted one of the prettiest coffee shops in the South! Back to the moss covered trees you must head to Forsyth Park with a beautiful fountain at the center of the park. Or head up to one of the rooftop bars along the river for a beautiful view of the city!

Instagram Spots in Charleston

Charleston is another instagram worth city with plenty of spots to snap those picture perfect photos. From beautiful colored buildings, moss covered trees and southern charm it lives up to its knickname “Charming Charleston”.

Head to Waterfront Park for the iconic pineapple fountain with the harbor in the background, or head to the beach and pose under the pier at Folly beach, or visit a 400 year old angle oak tree that is 65 feet high, the Mills pink house or Charleston’s own Rainbow Row of Victorian homes.

Can You Do Both Savannah And Charleston?

Yes! Of Course! At only about 100 miles and t wo hour drive apart you don’t need to choose between a Savannah vs Charleston vacation, you can visit both and decide which is the better fit for you!

If coming from Florida, Savannah will be closer and if coming from North, Charleston will be closer. But visiting both cities will make for a fun road trip in South!

Final Word On Savannah Vs. Charleston

Everyone always asks the question of how to choose between Savannah or Charleston and everyone has a personal preference! Savannah wins the place in our heart. It is the perfect small town to visit, with a great dining scene, ability to walk around town while having plenty of outdoor historical squares and parks and the ability to explore art museums and learn about the history of America’s 13th colony!

Savannah or Charleston: Which Lowcountry City is Right for You?

Planning a southern getaway and wondering whether Savannah or Charleston is the right city for you?

After visiting both cities several times, and after falling in love with the south over the course of a lifetime, I know that choosing whether to visit Charleston or Savannah is no easy task.

Both cities have plenty to offer visitors–starting with ample helpings of Lowcountry cooking and plenty of that classic southern hospitality–and given their similarities, especially as generally described online, it can be difficult to tease out the differences between them before you arrive.

Make no mistake, though: for two cities that sound so similar on paper, Savannah and Charleston actually feel quite different from each other on the ground.

And, most people who visit both–myself definitely included–tend to walk away with a preference for one or the other.

That being said: here’s how to decide whether to visit Savannah, GA or Charleston, SC!

Table of Contents

Once You Choose Savannah or Charleston…

Choose savannah if…, choose charleston if…, visit either charleston or savannah for…, should you visit both charleston and savannah, savannah vs charleston: the final decision.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Once you narrow down which city you’re going to visit, we’d love to help you plan your trip in more detail!

We have plenty more to say about Charleston and Savannah here on Our Escape Clause, from tips on what to do in Charleston when it rains to the best coffee shops in Savannah .

If you’re planning a weekend trip, I highly recommend starting with our extremely detailed weekend itinerary for Savannah or our weekend itinerary for Charleston , depending on which city you’re visiting!

… you’d prefer a more walkable city.

While both Charleston and Savannah are celebrated as being walkable cities–and they absolutely are, by US standards–Charleston is simply walkable in the sense that, yes, it is safe to walk around.

Savannah is walkable in the sense that it is so lovely, and so beautifully laid out (its historic center maintains most of its 18th-century city planning, complete with 22 town squares), that walking becomes the undisputed best way to get around.

And, in Savannah, walking through the city is a tourist attraction in its own right.

… you’d like a wider selection of house museums.

While Charleston does have some historic house museums, Savannah outshines it, boasting so many that there’s one for literally every taste.

From house museums that show an unvarnished look at the city’s often dark history (Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters), to bibliophiles (The Mercer-Williams House and Flannery O’Connor’s childhood home), to those looking for interesting ghost stories (The Sorrel-Weed House), Savannah is teeming with houses that have their own stories to tell.

And, that list doesn’t even scratch the surface of buildings with walls that talk (figuratively, probably) in Savannah: one of my favorite places to stay in town, the Foley House Inn , is featured on many of Savannah’s ghost tours thanks to a body that was once found in a wall…

… a small-town feel is more your style.

While Savannah is definitely a city, it has a slow-paced, laid-back feel of a smaller town.

The phrase “island time” comes to mind, though Savannah is not an island (though speaking of, nearby Tybee Island is definitely worth a visit while you’re there–but I’m getting ahead of myself).

Life moves slowly in Savannah, and as you get swept up in the pace of the city, it is incredibly relaxing to slow yourself down along with it.

… you want to get lost in the parks.

From beautiful Forsyth Park to the 22 beautiful town squares that all act as mini-parks in their own right, Savannah is packed with beautiful green spaces to explore.

In fact, as you explore Savannah on foot, it’s safe to say that you’re rarely more than a 5-minute walk from a small park while in the Historic District!

… you’re after more eclectic shopping.

While both Charleston and Savannah are known for their shopping, the presence of SCAD (the Savannah College of Art and Design) lends Savannah a more artistic, eclectic vibe to its shopping than Charleston has.

If you stroll the major shopping streets of each city–Broughton Street in Savannah and King Street in Charleston–you’ll notice that Savannah has a much higher concentration of independent boutiques.

While Savannah certainly has its share of international chains as well, and Charleston has some lovely boutiques, the balance weighs more heavily toward chain stores on King Street.

… you’re hoping for more of a city vibe.

If Savannah feels like a city masquerading as a small town, Charleston feels plainly like a city, albeit a gorgeous one.

Life is more fast-paced (slightly, anyway–this is still the south, after all), the streets feel busier, and the vibe is simply much different.

… you’d like to feel like you’re on the coast.

While you’ll be very close to the coast whether you visit Charleston or Savannah, Charleston’s many palm trees and general atmosphere feel much more coastal than Savannah’s.

In Savannah, you can easily forget that you’re near the beach, but in Charleston, you definitely won’t!

… you’re intrigued by war history.

While both cities have their share of war stories to share, Charleston puts much more of an emphasis on their history in two of the USA’s biggest wars than Savannah does.

As one of the colonies’ most important ports during the Revolutionary War, and later the location of the first shots fired in the Civil War, Charleston’s inclusion in the wars is deeply intertwined with its history.

… you want to explore the craft brewery scene.

With over 30 craft breweries, it’s safe to say that Charleston is known for its brews.

Craft beer lovers will find plenty of varieties to taste while in Charleston, SC!

… you want a wider variety of beach day trip choices.

While Savannah has beautiful Tybee Island for beach getaways, Charleston is within easy reach of Folly Beach, Sullivan’s Island, and the Isle of Palms, providing a wider variety of beach day opportunities.

… phenomenal Lowcountry food.

While Charleston’s food scene might be a smidge more celebrated on the upper end of the spectrum (their chefs have racked up more awards), you will absolutely eat some of the best food of your life whether you visit Savannah or Charleston.

Both cities have an incredible selection of Lowcountry restaurants to choose from, across all price points, and when it comes to eating great southern food, you absolutely cannot go wrong with either place.

… beautiful architecture.

From mansions to churches to marketplaces to cute apartments and Airbnbs in Charleston and Savannah, there’s no doubt that the historic districts of both cities are incredibly easy on the eyes.

… excellent ghost stories.

With long, fascinating histories and a culture that lends itself to legend and storytelling, Charleston and Savannah are both havens for incredible ghost stories.

And whether you believe in ghosts or not, the melding of fact, legend, and intrigue make ghost tours a fantastic way to explore either Savannah or Charleston!

Yes, absolutely!

Savannah and Charleston are located less than 2 hours apart by car, they’re both among the best road trips from Atlanta and other regional cities, and they are incredibly easy to combine into one southern getaway.

While you can conceivably day trip to one from the other, if your schedule can swing it, an even better option would be to spend 1-2 full days in each.

A 5-day road trip from Savannah to Charleston (or vice versa) makes for an absolutely fantastic visit to the south.

With enough time, a stop in either Hilton Head, SC, or Beaufort, SC between the two can only enhance your visit!

When researching whether to visit Charleston, SC or Savannah, GA, you’ll likely notice that just about everyone who has visited both cities has a clear preference between the two… myself included.

While I love both Charleston and Savannah and plan to continue returning to both cities indefinitely, Savannah will always have a bigger piece of my heart.

My heart skips a beat every time I step into Savannah. Charleston, as lovely as it is, cannot beat the magical atmosphere and ethereal beauty of Savannah–at least to me.

There’s a true uniqueness to the city of Savannah, thanks in large part to its 18th-century city planning that still dominates the historic center, that is unmatched by just about anywhere else in the USA.

That’s just one opinion, though, and you’ll find plenty of Charleston fans who vehemently disagree with my preference!

Ultimately, whether you choose to visit Savannah or Charleston, you’re bound to have a phenomenal Lowcountry getaway.

If you have enough time to combine the two and discover which side of the debate you land on yourself, that’s all the better!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

28 thoughts on “Savannah or Charleston: Which Lowcountry City is Right for You?”

Thank you for this wonderful review! My husband and I are thinking of relocating to either Savannah or Charleston, so this is a fantastic start to determining what will most suit us!

So glad we could help, Sarah! Good luck with your decision–that’s a tough choice!

I echo Sarah’s situation– we are also deciding between the two! I haven’t been to Charleston yet (Feb can’t come soon enough!), but I already anticipate it not being able to take Savannah’s place in my heart. Still, I’m excited for it to try. Lovely post, thank you!

You’re most welcome, glad it was helpful! Hope you have a great time in Charleston! 🙂

We have been living in Charleston for the last 4.5 years, but thinking about moving to Savannah (we’ve been many times and just love it). Charleston is incredibly congested. There are only a few major thoroughfares & traffic is crazy anytime of day, all year long. Downtown Charleston, particularly King St is always busy, not particularly fun for walking around, crowded sidewalks & limited parking. It’s much more pleasant to walk around downtown Savannah. Savannah is also regarded as the most haunted city in America, making it a destination for all kinds of fascinating ghost tours. Both cities have excellent food choices. Savannah has a better array of hotel options than downtown Charleston. I highly recommend The Marshall House in Savannah, centrally located in the historic district; lovely hotel. While both are beautiful, there’s just something magical about Savannah!

I agree. Savannah is my choice also. They are both beautiful, but Savannah just seems much friendlier and relaxing. I will say that for beaches, my family preferred Isle of Palms over Tybee, mainly because we have teenagers and Isle has a lot more going on. My wife and I both liked Tybee, because the pace is a lot more relaxing.

This is such a helpful post! We’ve never visited either city, but are currently having this debate. Really interested in Savannah, but a good, family friendly beach is very important. Can you tell me a little more about your experience at Tybee Island? Or Hilton Head? Thanks for any added input!

So happy to help, Laura! Both are great, family-friendly beaches. Hilton Head has more dining and shopping opportunities, while Tybee Island is more of a very laid back, extremely casual beach town. I’d say Hilton Head probably offers more variety in that way, but both are lovely!

Thank you so much, Kate! Helpful again!

Thank you! This month I’ll be visiting both cities, I had the pleasure of visiting Savannah two years ago and I absolutely fell in love. This will be my first trip to Charleston, which is funny because I live in Charleston WEST VIRGINIA. I look forward to expanding my traveling horizons and revisiting some of my favorite places in Savannah. This posting was great in its comparison!

Thank you so much, Faith! Hope you have a blast in both cities!

Hi Kate, Thanks for this wonderful comparison. I’m pet sitting in Hilton Head and when not pet sitting, I’m traveling full time in my camper van I want to visit one of these cities before I head west. Which do you feel offers more parking for my camper van and would allow me to park the van and then take a walking tour or trolly?

Pet-sitting in Hilton Head sounds like a blast. 🙂

I’m a bit biased (clearly), but I would recommend Savannah. There’s a fair amount of parking on the outskirts of the Historic District, and once you’re there, the city is extremely walkable. Charleston is a bit more spread out.

I’m sure either is possible, though!

My son gave us this choice while we were visiting from England. We chose Charleston and were glad we did but for none of the reasons given here.

We were walking past a church hall when saw a notice for a swing dance. It was a great event, we were able to practice our Lindy Hop and dance with the locals… but most importantly we can say that we danced the Charleston in Charleston!

Sounds like a wonderful experience! What great timing you guys had. 🙂

Thank you for your post. I am here deciding whether to go to Savannah or Charleston. It looks like Savannah may be the best choice. Can you recommend hotels or an Airbnb, restaurants that we shouldn’t miss. Still debating whether to drive or fly. Thanks.

Hi Miriam! Yes, absolutely.

We have several of our most recommended places to stay in this post, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, and a vacation rental: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/3-days-in-savannah-itinerary-weekend/

And a food and restaurant guide here (to start with, Collins Quarter, Mrs. Wilkes, Old Pink House are popular spots that we love): https://www.ourescapeclause.com/best-food-in-savannah-where-to-eat/

I believe there’s a beautiful house museum within walking distance. I haven’t been there myself but hoping to soon.

Wondering your experience if one is more dog friendly than the other. We are planning a getaway and plan to bring our dog.

We’ve only taken Ranger to Savannah so far, so unfortunately we don’t have any first-hand experience there! Both have plenty of outdoor attractions and dog-friendly outdoor restaurants.

If you’re interested in beaches, I believe Folly Beach is dog-friendly in the off-season, and I know Tybee forbids dogs year-round.

Hi! Thank you for this post. My boyfriend and I are looking to relocate to Charleson or Savannah. We are looking for a small house with a backyard for our anxious/noise-sensitive pup. Our top priority is somewhere safe. We have looked at crime rates for both areas. I often walk our dog alone as a female where we live now and am hoping to in the future. Have you ever found any issues with feeling unsafe or crime in either area? Do you think one location is better than the other in terms of safety?

Hi Malaney! I’ve always felt very safe in both cities, but visiting touristy neighborhoods vs living there are two very different things. I’m not much help with this question, I’m afraid!

As a Savannah “newbie” (only been here 30 years!) I enjoyed your take on both cities. You are right, they both have a different vibe but both are terrific to visit or to live in.

Great article. I just returned to SoCal after doing Home and Garden Tours in Charleston for 4 days then 2 days touring Savannah on the trolley. I love each city but the charm of the squares and parks in Savannah and the historical homes around them give it an edge. Charleston seems more of a shopping city while Savannah parks are the beautiful areas there. River St is fun too. I’ve never shopped on Broughton, just went to Leopold’s. Their pimento grilled cheese sandwiches are good too! Love your article. Thank you.

So happy to have found your traveling site. I appreciate all the care you take in the details!

I agree 100%. I live in Charlotte and have been to both places twice. I love them both, but how can you beat Savannah’s beautiful squares???? That’s the clincher for me, every time!

Super helpful post! May I ask what shop is shown in the beautiful photo that looks like antique home furnishings?

Absolutely! That’s the basement of the Paris Market and Brocante on Broughton Street in Savannah. It’s a beautiful store and even has a French-style cafe upstairs. 🙂

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