48 Hours in Savannah, GA: Insider Tips
Only have 48 hours to explore Savannah? Don’t worry—you can pack in a whole lot of charm, culture, and history in just two days if you
plan it right.
From wandering cobblestone squares to dining in centuries-old mansions, this itinerary takes you through the most iconic hotspots and historic Savannah sites the city has to offer. Along the way, you’ll get insider tips to help you experience the city like a local—ensuring every stop is as authentic and memorable as possible.
Whether you're on a weekend getaway or a spontaneous escape, this Savannah GA travel guide is your key to unlocking the magic of downtown Savannah Georgia in just two unforgettable days.
Day 1 Morning: Explore the Historic Core
Start your morning with a pick-me-up from either
The Coffee Fox or
The Paris Market, two of the best coffee stops in the Savannah Historic District. Both spots offer a mix of local charm and seriously good coffee.
*Insider Tip: If you love a side of style with your caffeine, The Paris Market also doubles as a boutique gift shop worth browsing.
After fueling up, take a leisurely stroll (or hop on a
trolley) through downtown Savannah Georgia. Historic Savannah sites include
Chippewa Square—home to the famous Forrest Gump bench scene, Jones Street (one of the most beautiful residential streets in the U.S.), and
Rainbow Row which is historic housing filled with pastel charm.
Also, don’t miss the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, an architectural gem nestled in the middle of the district.
By late morning, head to
Collins Quarter for brunch. This Aussie-inspired spot is known for its lavender mocha and brisket hash, and the setting is just as impressive as the food. Sitting outside lets you people-watch while soaking in the Southern ambiance. Post-brunch is a great time to visit
Forsyth Park, one of the most iconic things to do in Savannah, GA.
*Insider Tip: The Forsyth Fountain
at the north end is perfect for photos, and if you're visiting between March and May, the azaleas will be in full bloom.
From there, make your way to
Bonaventure Cemetery, just a short drive away. This hauntingly beautiful site is rich with history and offers guided walking tours for deep insights into famous residents.
Day 1 Afternoon: Markets + Murals
Spend your afternoon exploring
Savannah City Market, a four-block open-air market filled with unique shops, galleries, and live music. This spot is ideal for picking up local art or a handmade souvenir.
Make a quick detour to
Broughton Street,
where historic storefronts house a mix of local boutiques, national brands, and must-stop spots like the
Spice and Tea Exchange.
Continue the afternoon with a walk along
River Street, where old cotton warehouses house boutiques, bars, and sweet shops offering warm praline samples.
Grab a to-go drink and enjoy the breeze from the Savannah River as ships drift by—pure Southern magic.
If you’re into modern flair, swing by the
Starland District for trendy shops, art spaces, and
Starland Yard. Starland Yard is great leisure respite as it features a rotating lineup of food trucks, an outdoor bar, and plenty of space to relax or play yard games.
*Insider Tip: If you want a trendy street scene to capture urban-style photography, Starland District is filled with creative murals perfect for photos.
Day 1 Evening: Southern Classics & Rooftop Sips
Dinner calls for something special, and
The Olde Pink House is a classic. Located in an 18th-century mansion, it’s a historic Savannah site perfect for indulging in upscale Southern cuisine.
*Insider Tip: Make a reservation well in advance— it fills up fast.
Complete your night with a scoop (or two) from
Leopold’s Ice Cream, a Savannah institution since 1919. Their Tutti Frutti flavor is iconic, and the retro vibe inside is perfect for a late-night sweet treat.
If you’re in the mood for a nightcap, check out
Prohibition Savannah,
The Grove rooftop bar, or
Barrelhouse South for live music.
Another great choice is
Wet Willie’s on River Street which is famous for its boozy slushies and waterfront views.
*Insider Tip: Savannah has open-container laws, so you can walk around with your drink (in a plastic cup) while soaking in the night charm of Savannah.
Day 2 Morning: Culture, Gardens & Hidden Gems
Kick off your second day with another stroll through downtown Savannah, Georgia.
The early hours are peaceful and best for capturing photos without the crowds. If you're a breakfast person, hit up
Clary’s Cafe, a neighborhood gem that locals swear by.
Spend your morning revisiting a few historic Savannah sites or head over to the
Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) Museum of Art. It's a cool mix of contemporary and classic, adding a creative twist to your itinerary.
For a serene escape, take a short drive to
Wormsloe Historic Site, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk under the canopy of live oaks while exploring the site’s colonial ruins.
*Insider Tip: The oak-lined avenue at Wormsloe offers one of the most picturesque photo spots in Savannah.
Day 2 Afternoon: Riverside Eats & Scenic Views
Ready for lunch?
Treylor Park serves up inventive takes on Southern favorites—think PB&J chicken wings and shrimp tacos. (Bonus: it's conveniently located near River Street.)
Spend your afternoon at the
Plant Riverside District, one of the more revitalized areas of downtown Savannah Georgia. This riverside development blends history with entertainment—think art galleries, restaurants, and even a dinosaur fossil exhibit.
Insider Tip: Head to Plant Riverside District for golden hour and watch the sun dip behind the Savannah River.
Before dinner, consider a
Savannah Riverboat Cruise for a relaxing way to end your day. It’s one of the most unique things to do in Savannah, GA and offers unmatched views of the city from the water.
Finally, for dinner, opt for something atmospheric like
Alligator Soul, tucked away in a 19th-century basement, or
The Grey, a restored Greyhound bus terminal turned award-winning restaurant. Both offer incredible food and a distinctly “Savannah” vibe!