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

Should you visit Marathon or Savannah?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Savannah, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Marathon

Marathon is a beautiful, relaxing, and quaint island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Savannah

Savannah is a scenic, historic, and beautiful city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and beaches.

Marathon and Savannah: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Marathon or Savannah?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Savannah. Although Marathon and Savannah are both popular with visitors, Savannah has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Savannah is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and shopping, while Marathon is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Marathon is more touristy than Savannah and is popular for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. Savannah is popular for its maritime past, its southern atmosphere, and its Historic District. It is also home to Forsyth Park.

How is Marathon different from Savannah?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Marathon
Savannah

Savannah is great for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Savannah can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Marathon
Savannah

Savannah is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Marathon. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

Is Marathon or Savannah Better for Nightlife?

Marathon
Savannah

Marathon 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 Marathon. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

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 Marathon or Savannah Better for Resorts?

Marathon
Savannah

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

Marathon is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

Savannah is not a resort destination.


Is Marathon or Savannah Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon
Savannah

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

Marathon has a few good snorkeling spots. There are many dive shops around Marathon and the area has dive spots that are great for every level. Some of the best sites are Sombrero Reef, Coffins Patch, and Thunderbolt wreck. There are also many snorkeling trips that head out to Sombrero Reef.

Savannah is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Savannah Better for Beaches?

Marathon
Savannah

Marathon 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.

Marathon is considered a top beach destination. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

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 Marathon or Savannah Better for its Old Town?

Marathon
Savannah

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

Many visitors go to Savannah to see the historical old town. 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.

Marathon does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Savannah?

Marathon
Savannah

Savannah is great for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Savannah. 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.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Savannah Better for Families?

Marathon
Savannah

Marathon 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.

Marathon is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy getting face-to-face with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center. Families can also explore Pigeon Key or play in the water at Sombrero Beach. Families will find no shortage of activities on the island.

Savannah is a family-friendly island. 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 Marathon or Savannah Better for Couples?

Marathon
Savannah

Marathon and Savannah are both very good to visit as a couple.

Marathon is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. With beautiful views, 7 Mile Bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. There are beaches and waterfront spots that offer a romantic setting for couples.

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.


Is Marathon or Savannah Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marathon
Savannah

Savannah is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

It's common for backpackers to 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.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Marathon or Savannah Better for Students?

Marathon
Savannah

Savannah is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Marathon is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Savannah. There are a couple of colleges in town including the Savannah College of Art and Design.

Marathon is not popular with students.

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

Marathon
Savannah

Savannah is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.


Is Marathon or Savannah a more walkable city?

Marathon
Savannah

Savannah is great for its walkability. However, Marathon is not a good destination 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.

Marathon is generally not very walkable. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible.

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

Should I spend more time in Savannah or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Savannah?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Savannah than Marathon. 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 Marathon 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 Marathon or Savannah? Ideal Length of Stay
    Marathon 3-7 
    Savannah 1-3

One day in Marathon or Savannah?

The beautiful island of Marathon offers nightlife 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.

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 Marathon or Savannah?

Marathon 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 Marathon or Savannah?

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

Marathon 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 Marathon has to offer. This island 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 Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Savannah or Marathon?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Marathon is $158, 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 Marathon and Savannah in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Marathon $76
    Savannah $84
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Marathon $152
    Savannah $168
Compare Hotels in Marathon and Savannah

Looking for a hotel in Marathon 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 Marathon


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: Marathon Hotel Prices and Savannah Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Marathon $47
    Savannah $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Savannah

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Savannah:

  • Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV): Private Transfer to Savannah: $432
  • Private Transfer from Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Savannah : $257
  • Private Transfer from SAV to Hilton Head Island, SC : $222
  • Private Transfer from Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Hilton Head Island, SC: $222
  • Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Savannah - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $205
  • Private Transfer from SAV to Savannah: $205
  • Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Hilton Head Island - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $179
  • 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 Marathon or Savannah?

Prices for flights to both Savannah and Marathon 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
    Marathon $51
    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 Southern Fried Expectations Walking Food Tour: $67
  • Savannah Ghost Trolley Tour with Dinner at the Pirate's House: $72
  • Savannah Riverboat Gospel Music Dinner Cruise: $76
  • 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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Marathon $27
    Savannah $17

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:

  • "Savannah for Morons" Comedy Trolley Tour: $59
  • 1-Hour Bonaventure Cemetery Golf Cart Guided Tour in Savannah : $30
  • 2 Hour Historical Walking Tour in Savannah: $35
  • 2 Hours Savannah Architectural Tour: $50
  • 2-Hour Bonaventure Cemetery Walking Tour: $30
  • 2-Hour Explore Savannah Bike Tour: $45
  • 2-Hour Savannah Sunset Riverboat Cruise: $54
  • 2hr Paranormal Walking Tour: $30
  • 5 Hours Tybee Island Exclusive Bus and Bike Combo Tour: $75
  • 60-Minute Guided Segway History Tour of Savannah: $55
  • 90 Minutes Walking Tour in Savannah: $30
  • 90 minute Original Haunted Savannah Tour | 8pm: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Marathon $24
    Savannah $34

Sample the Local Flavors in Savannah

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Savannah:

  • Epic Savannah Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • 90 Minute Historic Savannah Walking Haunted Bar Pub Crawl: $19
  • Captain Stoner's Haunted Dive Bar Crawl: $20
  • Captain Stoner Joe's Haunted Dive Bar Crawl in Historic Savannah: $20
  • Spanish Moss Haunted Savannah Pub Crawl: $20
  • Late Night Happy Hour Haunted Pub Crawl and Legendary Bar Tour: $22
  • Captain Stoner's Late Night Happy Hour Pub Crawl in Savannah: $22
  • Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl-Walking Tour Historic District: $25
  • Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Bloody Murder Savannah Pub Crawl: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Conjuring Cocktails Pub Crawl: $30


When comparing the travel costs between Marathon and Savannah, we can see that Savannah 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 Marathon Expensive? and Is Savannah Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Marathon or Savannah?

Savannah has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon 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 Marathon or Savannah?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Marathon or Savannah in the Summer?

Both Savannah and Marathon during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Marathon in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Savannah for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Marathon is around the same temperature as Savannah in the summer. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Savannah fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

In Savannah, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the summer, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Savannah. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Savannah receives 267 hours of full sun.

Savannah gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Marathon usually gets less rain in July than Savannah. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Savannah receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Marathon 84°F (29°C) 
    Savannah 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Savannah in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Savannah. Most visitors come to Marathon for the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Savannah because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Marathon is a little warmer than Savannah. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marathon in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Savannah averages at about 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Savannah this time of the year. In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Savannah during autumn. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Savannah receives 223 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Marathon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Marathon usually receives more rain than Savannah. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Savannah receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Marathon 80°F (27°C) 
    Savannah 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Savannah in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Savannah. The winter months attract visitors to Marathon because of the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Savannah this time of year.

In January, Marathon is generally much warmer than Savannah. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 70°F (21°C), and Savannah fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the winter, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Savannah. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Savannah receives 176 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets less rain in January than Savannah. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Savannah receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Marathon 70°F (21°C) 
    Savannah 49°F (9°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Savannah in the Spring?

Both Savannah and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Savannah for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Marathon is a little warmer than Savannah in the spring. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Savannah fluctuates around 66°F (19°C).

It's quite sunny in Savannah. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Savannah during spring. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Savannah receives 275 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Marathon usually receives less rain than Savannah. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Savannah receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Marathon 77°F (25°C) 
    Savannah 66°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Savannah and Marathon

Marathon Savannah
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 59°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 66°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 79°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)