A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Destin vs. Savannah for Food, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Destin or Savannah?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Destin and Savannah can help you decide which place is right for you.

Destin

Destin is a peaceful, family-friendly, and beautiful beach town. Destin is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping. See Destin travel costs.

Savannah

Savannah is a historic, beautiful, and charming city. Savannah is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Savannah travel costs.

Destin and Savannah: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Destin or Savannah?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Savannah. Although Destin and Savannah are both popular with visitors, Savannah has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Savannah is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Destin is known for its resorts and beaches. Destin is more touristy than Savannah and is known for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants. Savannah is popular for its maritime past, its southern atmosphere, and its Historic District. It is also home to Forsyth Park.

How is Destin different from Savannah?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Savannah and Destin. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Destin or Savannah?

Destin
Savannah

Savannah is notable for its sights and museums. However, Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Savannah specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city's long history can be explored at the Savannah History Museum. With the Savannah School of Art and Design in town, you'll also find a great art culture with several museums such as the SCAD Museum of Art and the Jepson Center for the Arts. There's also the Georgia State Railroad Museum and the Sea Maritime Museum. There are several historic houses that you can visit as well, such as the Andrew Low House, the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, and Harper Fowlkes House.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Destin or Savannah? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Destin
Savannah

Savannah is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Savannah makes for a great culinary experience. Local restaurants highlight southern hospitality as well as the cuisine. You'll find many classics such as crab cakes, shrimp and grits, and fried fish. There are many restaurants in historic buildings in the Historic District, but you'll also find a number of casual eateries in other neighborhoods.

Destin has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The area has great seafood including crab chowder, seafood gumbo, and fried fish. You can find wonderful local restaurants that have waterfront views and menus that feature freshly caught seafood. Many restaurants also have kid-friendly menus. During peak season, reservations are recommended.

Is Destin or Savannah Better for Nightlife?

Destin
Savannah

Savannah is notable for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

Savannah has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Downtown Savannah and River Street are filled with bars and clubs that keep things lively when the sun goes down. During the warmer months there are outdoor venues, concerts and events, but even during the cooler seasons things stay busy.

Destin doesn't offer many options. The region is more popular as a family-friendly beach destination than it is for it's nightlife. Head to the Harbor area for the most lively nightlife.

Is Destin or Savannah Better for Resorts?

Destin
Savannah

Destin is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Savannah is not a resort destination.

Destin is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Popular options include the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, as well as Hilton Sandestin Beach, Golf Resort & Spa. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms. Most of these complexes also have pools, hot tubs, and even kids clubs.

Savannah is not a resort destination.


Is Destin or Savannah Better for Beaches?

Destin
Savannah

Destin is a well-known place for its beaches. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for the beach.

Destin is considered a top beach destination. This area is famous for its powdery white sand, beautiful blue waters, and calm waves. The beaches are large enough that they never get incredibly crowded, but you will find the largest crowds during the summer months. These beaches are particularly popular with families and seniors.

Many people head to Savannah to enjoy the beach. While Savannah doesn't actually have a beach, you can head to nearby Tybee Island for waves and sun. It's about half an hour away and the closest beaches to the city are on the island's north side.

Is Destin or Savannah Better for its Old Town?

Destin
Savannah

Savannah is notable for its historic old town. However, Destin does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Savannah. There's an impressive Historic District that is filled with gardens, historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and Oak-lined streets. There are wonderful hotels and traditional restaurants that offer a beautiful experience.

Destin does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Savannah?

Destin
Savannah

Savannah is notable for shopping. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Savannah is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Shopping opportunities include art galleries, trendy clothing boutiques, and larger shopping malls. Visitors can wander down the popular Broughton Street, but there's also a City Market and Starland District.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Destin. In the shopping centers around town you'll find a number of unique boutique shops that are fun to explore. They have boutique-style beach clothes, local art, and any beach supplies that you may have forgotten.


Is Destin or Savannah More Beautiful?

Destin
Savannah

Destin and Savannah both are comparable with their good scenery and beauty.

Destin is a gorgeous place to visit. With its powdery sand and the blue water of the Gulf of Mexico, this is a beautiful beach destination.

Savannah is a beautiful place to visit, too. The city is filled with historic buildings and streets lined with trees draped in Spanish Moss.

Is Destin or Savannah Better for Families?

Destin
Savannah

Destin is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Destin is a very family-friendly place to visit. The area has beautiful sandy beaches, calm waters, and plenty of activities for kids like Big Kahuna's Water Park. This is one of the more kid-friendly areas in Florida and many families return year after year with their kids. There are also many condos available for rent and kids can have their own room, kitchens are available for meal preparation, and there are washers and dryers to clean clothes. Many of these condo complexes also have kid-friendly pools

Savannah is a family-friendly beach town. There's a children's museum in town. There's also many outdoor parks and the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge. Kids will enjoy stopping for ice cream or other sweet treats, which are plentiful as well.

Is Destin or Savannah Better for Couples?

Destin
Savannah

Savannah is notable for romance. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its romantic activities.

Savannah is a very popular place to visit for couples. Trees with Spanish Moss as well as a charming Historic District make this a nice destination for a couple's weekend. There are parks where you can enjoy a picnic. There are also nature trails and many great southern restaurants.

Destin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For a relaxing beach vacation, this is a nice option for couples. A lot of the accommodation is in the form of condos, so it may not have the romantic resort vibe you're going for though. There are many great seafood restaurants and quiet beaches that have beautiful sunsets.


Is Destin or Savannah Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Destin
Savannah

Savannah is very good for backpackers. However, Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Savannah is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a hostel in town, as well as a number of cheaper motels that are a bit outside of the Historic District.

Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Destin or Savannah Better for Students?

Destin
Savannah

Savannah is very good for students. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its student-friendly activities.

Savannah is a good city to visit for students. There are a couple of colleges in town including the Savannah College of Art and Design.

Destin is a decent spot for students. It is more a family-friendly destination than a spring break destination. If you're looking for a place to cut loose and blow off some steam, then there are better options in Florida.

Is Destin or Savannah Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Destin
Savannah

Savannah is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Savannah. While there are some types of public transit available, the vast majority of visitors have a vehicle, which they use to get around.

Public transit is quite limited in Destin. There is almost no public transit so a car is essential. Some condo complexes do over golf carts to get around the grounds.


Is Destin or Savannah a more walkable city?

Destin
Savannah

Savannah is notable for its walkability. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its high level of walkability.

Savannah is very walkable. The Historic District is very walkable, and it makes a pleasant place to explore on foot.

Destin is not a very walkable beach town. The area is very spread out and not walkable so you'll need a car to access restaurants and most forms of entertainment.

For even more information, also check out Is Destin Worth Visiting? and Is Savannah Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Savannah or Destin?

How long in Destin or Savannah?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Destin and Savannah. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Destin than in Savannah. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 1-3 days is enough time in Savannah.

Families should spend more time in Destin than Savannah. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Destin, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Savannah than Destin. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Savannah that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Savannah than Destin if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Savannah.


  • How many days in Destin or Savannah? Ideal Length of Stay
    Destin 5-7 
    Savannah 1-3

One day in Destin or Savannah?

The beach town of Destin offers shopping and food. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Savannah. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Destin or Savannah?

Destin is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Savannah is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Destin or Savannah?

Destin is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Destin, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Savannah. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Destin or Savannah?

Destin is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Destin has to offer. This beach town offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Savannah. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.


Which place is cheaper, Savannah or Destin?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Destin Prices
    USA Prices
    Savannah Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Destin $229
    Savannah $202

The average daily cost (per person) in Destin is $229, while the average daily cost in Savannah is $202. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Destin and Savannah in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Destin $111
    Savannah $84
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Destin $222
    Savannah $168
Compare Hotels in Destin and Savannah

Looking for a hotel in Destin or Savannah? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Destin


Hotels in Savannah


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Destin Hotel Prices and Savannah Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Destin $50
    Savannah $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Savannah

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Savannah:

  • Savannah to Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) - Departure Private Transfer: $34
  • Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Hilton Head Island - Arrival Private Transfer: $58
  • Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Savannah - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $68
  • One Way Private Transfer to/from Savannah Int'l: $68
  • Private Departure Transfer from Hotel to Savannah (SAV) Airport by SUV: $89
  • Private Savannah Airport to Tybee Island Transfer: $100
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Savannah (SAV) Airport to Hotel by Van: $105
  • Private Transfer from Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Hilton Head Island, SC: $238
  • Private Transfer from Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Savannah: $274

Is it cheaper to fly into Destin or Savannah?

Prices for flights to both Savannah and Destin change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Destin $89
    Savannah $99

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Destin

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Destin.

  • Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise: $75
  • Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise with Sunset Views: $125
  • Sunset Dinner Cruise with Live Music: $128
  • 3 Hour Sunset Dinner Cruise by Solaris Yacht in Miramar Beach: $129

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Savannah

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Savannah.

  • Savannah Riverboat Gospel Music Dinner Cruise: $77
  • Monday Gospel Dinner Cruise: $77
  • Southern & Secret Walking Food Tour: $92
  • Southern and Secret Food Tour: $92
  • 2 HR Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise with Onboard Entertainment: $93
  • Buffet Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment: $93
  • Savannah First Squares Culinary & Cultural Walking Food Tour: $97
  • Southern Traditions Dinner Tour: $106
  • True South Lunch Food Tour: $125
  • Savannah’s Palate – Private Historic Food Tour: $1,429

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Destin $17
    Savannah $17
Typical Entertainment Prices in Destin

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Destin are as follows:


  • 1 Day Rental Umbrella and Chairs
    $40

Tours and Activities in Destin

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Destin are as follows:

  • Destin Dolphin Watching and Sunset Cruise: $27
  • Best Destin Fireworks Cruise: $27
  • Destin Harbor Sunset Eco Dolphin Cruise: $33
  • Sandestin Sunset Eco-Dolphin Cruise Aboard Sol y Luna: $33
  • Destin Dolphin Cruise: $34
  • Destin Fireworks Cruise: $35
  • Sunset Dolphin Cruise: $36
  • Dolphin Cruise in Destin FL: $37
  • Dolphin & Sunset Cruises in Destin FL aboard the Hydrojet: $38
  • The Maximum Magic Show Ticket: $39
  • Kayak Adventure in Destin and Fort Walton Beach: $39
  • Dolphin & Sunset Cruises: $39

Typical Entertainment Prices in Savannah

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Savannah are as follows:


  • Pub Crawl
    $10

Tours and Activities in Savannah

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Savannah are as follows:

  • Self Guided Audio Ghost Tour in Savannah in 6 Languages: $5.00
  • Savannah Scavenger Hunt & Highlights Self-Guided Walking Tour: $6.99
  • Savannah Waterfront: Pirate Adventure Walking Game: $7.74
  • Savannah Ghost Tour: $8.00
  • Self-Guided 'Old Squares of Savannah' Solo Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Ghosts of Savannah Self-Guided Haunted Audio Tour App/EMF Reader: $9.75
  • Self Guided Historic Savannah Walking Tour: $9.99
  • Chippewa Square to Forsyth Park: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Savannah: $9.99
  • True Crime Walking Tour in Savannah: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Savannah by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Skip the Line: General Admission Webb Military Museum Ticket: $10
  • Johnson Square to Independent Presbyterian: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Savannah: $12

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Destin $49
    Savannah $34

Sample the Local Flavors in Savannah

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Savannah:

  • Astounding Bar Crawl Savannah Georgia: Soul of Savannah: $15
  • Spanish Moss Haunted Savannah Pub Crawl: $25
  • Bad Kitty Pub Crawl, Spooky Naughty Ghosts: $30
  • Savannah Terrors: Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Savannah Bar Crawl by the Bridge: $32
  • Moonlight Happy Hour Pub Crawl with Captain Stoner: $33
  • Captain Stoner's Haunted Dive Bar Crawl: $33
  • Moonlight Happy Hour Haunted Pub Crawl With Captain Stoner: $33
  • Spooky Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • True Crime Pub Crawl, The Original Murder Tour: $35
  • Bloody Murder Savannah Pub Crawl: $35
  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $35


When comparing the travel costs between Destin and Savannah, we can see that Destin is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Destin Expensive? and Is Savannah Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Destin or Savannah?

Savannah has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Destin. When comparing the sizes of Destin and Savannah, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Destin or Savannah?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Destin or Savannah in the Summer?

Both Savannah and Destin are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Destin for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Savannah because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

Destin is around the same temperature as Savannah in the summer. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Savannah fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Savannah. It's quite rainy in Destin. In July, Destin usually receives around the same amount of rain as Savannah. Destin gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Savannah receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Destin 82°F (28°C) 
    Savannah 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Destin or Savannah in the Autumn?

Both Savannah and Destin during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Destin because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Savannah this time of year.

In the autumn, Destin is around the same temperature as Savannah. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Destin in October average around 69°F (21°C), and Savannah averages at about 68°F (20°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Destin. Destin usually gets more rain in October than Savannah. Destin gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Savannah receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Destin 69°F (21°C) 
    Savannah 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Destin or Savannah in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Destin and Savannah. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Destin this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Savannah for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Destin is generally around the same temperature as Savannah. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 50°F (10°C), and Savannah fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

Destin gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Destin usually receives more rain than Savannah. Destin gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Savannah receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Destin 50°F (10°C) 
    Savannah 49°F (9°C)

Should I visit Destin or Savannah in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Destin as well as Savannah. Many travelers come to Destin for the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Savannah in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Destin is around the same temperature as Savannah in the spring. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Savannah fluctuates around 66°F (19°C).

Destin usually gets more rain in April than Savannah. Destin gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Savannah receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Destin 68°F (20°C) 
    Savannah 66°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Savannah and Destin

Destin Savannah
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 50°F (10°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 60°F (16°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 59°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 66°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
May 74°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm) 79°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (189 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (188 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm) 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 69°F (21°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Nov 61°F (16°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)