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

Should you visit Pensacola 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 Pensacola and Savannah can help you decide which place is right for you.

Pensacola

Pensacola is a fun-filled, active, and entertaining beach town. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and museums.

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.

Pensacola and Savannah: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pensacola or Savannah?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Pensacola than Savannah. While Savannah is larger than Pensacola, Pensacola has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Pensacola is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and hiking, while Savannah attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Pensacola is more touristy than Savannah and is known for its white sand beaches and long running naval history. It is also well known for Gulf Islands National Seashore. Savannah is famous for its maritime past, its southern atmosphere, and its Historic District.

How is Pensacola different from Savannah?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Savannah is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Pensacola is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its museums and history.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Pensacola. On a rainy day there are some nice museums in the area. You can visit the National Naval Aviation Museum, the Historic Pensacola Village, the Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum, or Pensacola Children's Museum.

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

Foodies will find both Pensacola and Savannah both to be great destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Pensacola. You'll find no shortage of seafood options around town. Oysters, shrimp, and fresh fish are popular on the menus. You'll also find lots of Cajun flavors as well as casual sandwiches and pizza.

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 Pensacola or Savannah Better for Nightlife?

Pensacola 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 Pensacola. There's a casual nightlife scene with pubs, live music, and a mellow but fun setting.

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 Pensacola or Savannah Better for Resorts?

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

Pensacola is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Family-friendly resorts with pools, waterslides, and lazy rivers are common. You'll also find beachfront hotels and more affordable options set back from the beach.

Savannah is not a resort destination.

Is Pensacola or Savannah Better for Beaches?

Pensacola is an amazing beach town to visit for its beaches. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for the beache.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Pensacola. White sand beaches with blue water and mild temperatures make this a wonderful beach destination. Some of the best beaches include Casino Beach, Perdido Key Beach, and Opal Beach.

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 Pensacola or Savannah Better for its Old Town?

Savannah is notable for its old town. However, Pensacola 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.

Pensacola does not have a historic old town.

Is Pensacola or Savannah Better for Hiking?

Pensacola is a moderate beach town for the nearby hiking options. However, Savannah is not a hiking destination.

Pensacola has hiking trails if you want to get outside. Step away from the beachfront development and you'll find some nice nature parks with quiet walking trails.

Savannah is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pensacola or Savannah?

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

Pensacola has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are sprawling shopping malls and shopping centers as well as local boutiques and quintessential souvenir shops.

Is Pensacola or Savannah Better for Families?

Pensacola 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.

Pensacola is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kid-friendly beaches, minigolf, a zoo, and even a few museums make this a great family destination. There are family-friendly resorts and kid-friendly restaurants that make for an easy vacation that everyone will enjoy.

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 Pensacola or Savannah Better for Couples?

Both Pensacola and Savannah are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Pensacola is a very popular place to visit for couples. Beautiful beaches and sunset cruises make this a great romantic getaway. You'll find great restaurants for a date night and plenty of activity once the sun goes down. During the day you can lounge on the beach or by the pool, sip drinks, and enjoy a vacation with your loved one.

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 Pensacola or Savannah Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Savannah is very good for backpackers. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Pensacola is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a few budget-friendly places to stay, particularly away from the beach.

Is Pensacola or Savannah Better for Students?

Savannah is very good for students. However, Pensacola is not popular with students.

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.

Pensacola is not popular with students.

Is Pensacola 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, Pensacola 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 Pensacola. There's a bus system, but it's not particularly helpful to vacationers.

Is Pensacola or Savannah a more walkable city?

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

Pensacola is generally not a very walkable beach town. It's not a particularly walkable city and you'll want to have a car to fully enjoy your vacation.

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

Should I spend more time in Savannah or Pensacola?

How long in Pensacola or Savannah?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Savannah than Pensacola. 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 Pensacola 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 Pensacola or Savannah?

The beach town of Pensacola offers food and shopping. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Savannah. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Savannah has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Pensacola or Savannah?

Pensacola 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.

You'll find museums and food around the scenic destination of Savannah. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Pensacola or Savannah?

Pensacola is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Pensacola, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the scenic city of Savannah. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Pensacola or Savannah?

Pensacola is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. 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 Pensacola has to offer. This beach town offers something for everyone.

Savannah is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Pensacola and Savannah, we can see that Pensacola 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 Pensacola would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pensacola 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 Pensacola Expensive? and Is Savannah Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Pensacola or Savannah?

Savannah has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Pensacola. When comparing the sizes of Pensacola 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 Pensacola 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 Pensacola or Savannah in the Summer?

Both Savannah and Pensacola are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Pensacola for the beaches, the hiking, 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.

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

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

Should I visit Pensacola or Savannah in the Autumn?

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

Pensacola is around the same temperature as Savannah in the autumn. The daily temperature in Pensacola averages around 69°F (21°C) in October, and Savannah fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pensacola. Pensacola usually gets more rain in October than Savannah. Pensacola gets 4.2 inches (107 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 Pensacola.

Should I visit Pensacola or Savannah in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Pensacola is a little warmer than Savannah. Typically, the winter temperatures in Pensacola in January average around 51°F (10°C), and Savannah averages at about 49°F (9°C).

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

Should I visit Pensacola or Savannah in the Spring?

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

In April, Pensacola is generally around the same temperature as Savannah. Daily temperatures in Pensacola average around 67°F (20°C), and Savannah fluctuates around 66°F (19°C).

Pensacola usually gets more rain in April than Savannah. Pensacola gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Savannah receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Pensacola is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Savannah and Pensacola