A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ensenada vs. Savannah for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Beaches

Should you visit Ensenada or Savannah?

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

Should I visit Ensenada or Savannah? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Ensenada

Ensenada is a historic, cultural, and outdoorsy city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Savannah

Savannah is a charming, scenic, and historic city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Ensenada and Savannah: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Ensenada or Savannah?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Savannah than Ensenada. While Ensenada is larger than Savannah, Savannah has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Savannah is very popular for its museums, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Ensenada attracts visitors for its nightlife. Ensenada is more touristy than Savannah and is known for its local cuisine, golf, and outdoor sports. Savannah is famous for its maritime past, its southern atmosphere, and its Historic District. It is also well known for Forsyth Park.

How is Ensenada different from Savannah?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Ensenada
Savannah

Savannah is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Ensenada is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Savannah offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Ensenada. There are several good museums in town such as the Museo de Historia and Caracol Museo de Ciencias.


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

Ensenada
Savannah

Both Ensenada and Savannah offer high quality local cuisine and restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Ensenada. The town is known for its seafood, and fish tacos is one of the most popular dishes. You'll find seafood markets and street cards selling fresh and local items. Sample your way through the city and enjoy all of the local specialties.

Savannah has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Is Ensenada or Savannah Better for Nightlife?

Ensenada
Savannah

Ensenada is a popular place for nightlife. However, Savannah is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Ensenada. There are a number of bars and nightclubs around town. Head to Avenida López Mateos for many of the best restaurants and bars.

Savannah is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife. 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.

Is Ensenada or Savannah Better for Beaches?

Ensenada
Savannah

Savannah is a popular place for the beache. However, Ensenada is a city with minimal options for the beach.

Savannah is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

The beach in Ensenada is worth checking out. It's a working port town and the beaches in the area aren't great. You'll find the best options to the south of the city.


Is Ensenada or Savannah Better for its Old Town?

Ensenada
Savannah

Savannah is a great destination for its old town. However, Ensenada does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Ensenada does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Ensenada or Savannah?

Ensenada
Savannah

Savannah is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Ensenada is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Savannah is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Ensenada has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Avenida López Mateos is the main shopping street in town. You'll find many shops, but be prepared to pay more than you might elsewhere because shopkeepers are used to cruise ship riders who are willing to pay a high price tag.

Is Ensenada or Savannah Better for Families?

Ensenada
Savannah

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Ensenada or Savannah.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Ensenada. You'll find ziplining, horseback riding, and surf lessons in the area. Kids will also enjoy seeing the Water Show or going whale watching.

Savannah offers lots of family activities. 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 Ensenada or Savannah Better for Couples?

Ensenada
Savannah

Savannah is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Ensenada is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Savannah frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Ensenada is a good city for couples to visit. The city has an authentic atmosphere that will let you experience a more genuine side to Mexico.

Is Ensenada or Savannah Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ensenada
Savannah

Ensenada and Savannah are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Ensenada. There are a few hostels and a number of cheap hotels around town.

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.

Is Ensenada or Savannah Better for Students?

Ensenada
Savannah

Savannah is a popular place for students. However, Ensenada is not popular with students.

Savannah is popular with students. There are a couple of colleges in town including the Savannah College of Art and Design.

Ensenada is not popular with students.


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

Ensenada
Savannah

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Ensenada and Savannah.

Public transit is generally limited in Ensenada. Public transit in the area is limited.

Public transit is mostly 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.

Is Ensenada or Savannah a more walkable city?

Ensenada
Savannah

Ensenada and Savannah both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Ensenada is a very walkable city. The downtown area is walkable and easy to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Savannah or Ensenada?

How long in Ensenada or Savannah?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Ensenada and Savannah. In our opinion, Savannah has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Savannah than Ensenada. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Ensenada, and 1-3 days is enough time in Savannah.

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

Couples should spend more time in Savannah than Ensenada. 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 Ensenada 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 Ensenada or Savannah? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ensenada 2-3 
    Savannah 1-3

One day in Ensenada or Savannah?

The city of Ensenada offers food and shopping. 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.

The city of Savannah offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Ensenada or Savannah?

Ensenada is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ensenada, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Savannah is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Savannah, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Ensenada or Savannah?

Ensenada is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Savannah is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Ensenada or Savannah?

Ensenada is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Savannah is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Savannah or Ensenada?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Ensenada is $99, while the average daily cost in Savannah is $160. 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 Ensenada and Savannah in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ensenada $47
    Savannah $84
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ensenada $94
    Savannah $168
Compare Hotels in Ensenada and Savannah

Looking for a hotel in Ensenada 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 Ensenada


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: Ensenada Hotel Prices and Savannah Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ensenada $21
    Savannah $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ensenada

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Ensenada:

  • Border and Tijuana Airport Transfers to Ensenada or Valle de Guadalupe: $120
  • Transfer: From Tijuana to Valle de Guadalupe & Ensenada: $408

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Savannah

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Savannah:

  • Private Transfer from SAV to Hilton Head Island, SC : $222
  • Private Transfer from SAV to Savannah: $206
  • Private Transfer from Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Savannah : $257
  • Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV): Private Transfer to Savannah: $432
  • Savannah to Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) - Departure Private Transfer: $103
  • African American History Walking Tour w/ Transfer: $64
  • Grave Encounters Tour with Guide and Transfers: $32

Is it cheaper to fly into Ensenada or Savannah?

Prices for flights to both Savannah and Ensenada 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
    Ensenada $39
    Savannah $58

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Savannah

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

  • Grave Encounters Ghost Tour with Cellar and Dinner: $55
  • 2-Hour Southern Food Tour: $63
  • Savannah Ghost Trolley Tour with Dinner at the Pirate's House: $72
  • Monday Gospel Dinner Cruise: $76
  • Savannah First Squares Culinary & Cultural Walking Food Tour: $82
  • Savannah's Port City Walking Food Tour: $82
  • Famous and Secret East Side/Port City Food Tour: $82
  • 2 HR Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise with Onboard Entertainment: $91
  • Buffet Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment: $91
  • Southern Traditions Dinner Tour: $106
  • True South Lunch Food Tour: $106

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ensenada $11
    Savannah $17

Tours and Activities in Ensenada

Here are a few actual costs in Ensenada for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Rondo del Valley Winery Tour with 5 Tastings: $26
  • Lavender Field Guided Tour: $34
  • Lavender Field Guided Tour: $37
  • From La Bufadora Geyser Tour: $39
  • Ensenada : The unique bufadora private tour: $39
  • Tacos, Brews and Views Tour : $40
  • La Bufadora Punta Banda Tour: $41
  • Private La Bufadora Tour (blowhole): $41
  • La Bufadora Tour in Baja California: $42
  • Horseback Riding Experience in Las Cañadas Campamento: $44
  • The Bufadora private Tour: $44
  • Las Cañadas Canopy Tour in Ensenada: $52

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:

  • Old Squares GPS Audio Guided Walking Tour: $5.50
  • Self-Guided 'Old Squares of Savannah' Solo Walking Tour: $7.50
  • Savannah’s Historical District: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Savannah Historical District: Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $7.99
  • Self Guided Audio Ghost Tour in Savannah in 6 Languages: $9.00
  • Johnson Square to Independent Presbyterian: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Savannah: $9.99
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Savannah by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Uncover Savannah's Secrets: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Uncover Savannah's Haunted Secrets: Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $13
  • Savannah Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Savannah Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $13

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ensenada $11
    Savannah $34

Sample the Local Flavors in Ensenada

Also in Ensenada, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Private Wine Tasting Experience in Maglén: $29
  • Xecue Wine Tasting in the Guadalupe Valley: $39
  • Wine tour valley of guadalupe: $60
  • Valle de Guadalupe Wine Tasting Tour: $78
  • From Wine Tasting at Guadalupe Valley Ensenada: $87
  • From Ojos Negros Valley Cheese & Wine Tasting Tour: $97
  • Wine Tasting Tour in Valle de Guadalupe: $115
  • Private Wine Tour at Valle de Guadalupe (A wine tasting included).: $119
  • wine tours and driver service through valle de guadalupe, Ensenada B.C. Mexico: $135
  • Wine tasting tour for Cruise Ship Visitors. All Inclusive!: $199
  • Private and custom group Wine tour Valle de Guadalupe : $220
  • Valle Experience by Ansell Wine Tours: $269

Sample the Local Flavors in Savannah

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Savannah:

  • Epic Savannah Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • Captain Stoner's Haunted Dive Bar Crawl: $20
  • Captain Stoner Joe's Haunted Dive Bar Crawl in Historic Savannah: $20
  • Captain Stoner's Late Night Happy Hour Pub Crawl in Savannah: $22
  • 10 to Midnight Happy Hour and Haunted Pub Crawl w/ the Captain: $22
  • Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl-Walking Tour Historic District: $25
  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Bloody Murder Savannah Pub Crawl: $30
  • Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Conjuring Cocktails Pub Crawl: $30
  • Savannah Bar Crawl by the Bridge: $32
  • Spooky Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl: $33


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ensenada and Savannah, we can see that Savannah is more expensive. And not only is Ensenada much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ensenada would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ensenada and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Savannah would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Savannah than you might in Ensenada.

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


Which is Bigger, Ensenada or Savannah?

Ensenada has a larger population, and is about 95% larger than the population of Savannah. When comparing the sizes of Ensenada 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.