A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key West vs. Savannah for Food, Beaches, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Key West or Savannah?

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

Should I visit Key West 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.

Key West

Key West is a eclectic, bustling, and active town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Savannah

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

Key West and Savannah: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Savannah?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and Savannah are popular destinations, Key West has more sights and attractions for tourists. Key West is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Savannah attracts visitors for its museums, food, and shopping. Key West is more touristy than Savannah and is known for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. It is also well known for Duval Street. Savannah is famous for its maritime past, its southern atmosphere, and its Historic District.

How is Key West different from Savannah?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Key West or Savannah?

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

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.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Savannah. 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.

Key West is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, be the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

Is Key West or Savannah Better for Nightlife?

Key West is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Savannah is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Key West offers plenty to do in the evening. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki 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 Key West or Savannah Better for Resorts?

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

Key West is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Savannah is not a resort destination.

Is Key West or Savannah Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Savannah is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Key West has a few good snorkeling spots. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Savannah is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Savannah Better for Beaches?

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

Key West is considered a top beach destination. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

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 Key West or Savannah Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the high quality old towns in both Key West and Savannah.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Key West. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Savannah?

Savannah is notable for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town 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.

Key West has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Key West or Savannah Better for Families?

Key West 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.

Key West is a very family-friendly place to visit. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

Savannah is a family-friendly 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 Key West or Savannah Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Key West and Savannah make for a high quality place to visit.

Key West is a very popular place to visit for couples. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

Savannah makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Is Key West or Savannah Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Savannah is a popular place for backpackers. However, Key West is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Savannah. There's a hostel in town, as well as a number of cheaper motels that are a bit outside of the Historic District.

Key West is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Key West is a pretty expensive destination, but there are Airbnbs and even a hostel or two that cater to budget backpackers.

Is Key West or Savannah Better for Students?

Key West is a well-known place for students. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Key West is a very popular town for students and younger travelers. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Plenty of students visit Savannah. There are a couple of colleges in town including the Savannah College of Art and Design.

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

Savannah is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Key West is a mediocre 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 Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Is Key West or Savannah a more walkable city?

Savannah is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Key West is a somewhat walkable town. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Savannah or Key West?

How long in Key West or Savannah?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Savannah than Key West. 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 Key West 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.

One day in Key West or Savannah?

The beautiful town of Key West offers nightlife and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Key West or Savannah?

Key West 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 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 Key West or Savannah?

Key West is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Key West, five days is sufficent for most. 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 Key West or Savannah?

Key West is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Key West has to offer. This town 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Key West and Savannah, we can see that Key West is more expensive. And not only is Savannah much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Savannah would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Savannah 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 Key West would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Key West than you might in Savannah.

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

Which is Bigger, Key West or Savannah?

Savannah has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Key West. When comparing the sizes of Key West 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 Key West 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 Key West or Savannah in the Summer?

Both Savannah and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Key West because of the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Savannah this time of year.

In July, Key West is generally around the same temperature as Savannah. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 84°F (29°C), and Savannah fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

It's quite sunny in Savannah. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Savannah during summer. Key West gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Savannah receives 267 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Savannah. In July, Key West usually receives less rain than Savannah. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Savannah receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Key West or Savannah in the Autumn?

Both Savannah and Key West during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Key West this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Savannah for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Key West is a little warmer than Savannah in the autumn. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Savannah fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In Savannah, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Key West. In the autumn, Key West often gets more sunshine than Savannah. Key West gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Savannah receives 223 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually gets more rain in October than Savannah. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Savannah receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

Should I visit Key West or Savannah in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Savannah. Many travelers come to Key West for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Savannah in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Key West is much warmer than Savannah. Typically, the winter temperatures in Key West in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Savannah averages at about 49°F (9°C).

In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Savannah during winter. Key West gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Savannah receives 176 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Key West usually receives less rain than Savannah. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Savannah receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Key West or Savannah in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Key West as well as Savannah. Many visitors come to Key West in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Savannah for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Key West is generally a little warmer than Savannah. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 77°F (25°C), and Savannah fluctuates around 66°F (19°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Savannah. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key West this time of the year. In the spring, Key West often gets more sunshine than Savannah. Key West gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Savannah receives 275 hours of full sun.

Key West usually gets less rain in April than Savannah. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Savannah receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Savannah and Key West