A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Savannah vs. Beaufort for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Savannah or Beaufort?

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

Should I visit Savannah or Beaufort? 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.

Savannah

Savannah is a historic, beautiful, and charming city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a charming, historic, and character-filled town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

Savannah and Beaufort: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Savannah or Beaufort?

Both Beaufort and Savannah have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Savannah is more popular for its museums and shopping, while Beaufort is known for its nightlife, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Savannah is popular for its maritime past, its southern atmosphere, and its Historic District. Beaufort is popular for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes.

How is Savannah different from Beaufort?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Savannah
Beaufort

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

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.

Beaufort offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The town's museums highlight the region's past. There are four popular museums that you can visit - the Beaufort History Museum, Parris Island Museum, Verdier House Museum, and York W. Bailey Museum.


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

Savannah
Beaufort

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Savannah and Beaufort can be difficult as they are each very good in their own way.

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.

Beaufort has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Soak up the charming atmosphere by dining at one of the local restaurants. Many serve Lowcountry cuisine which includes She-crab soup, fried green tomatoes, shrimp burgers, and barbecue.

Is Savannah or Beaufort Better for Nightlife?

Savannah
Beaufort

Beaufort is a moderate town for nightlife. However, Savannah is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Most people don't head to Beaufort specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.

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 Savannah or Beaufort Better for Beaches?

Savannah
Beaufort

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Savannah and Beaufort are good choices.

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.

Many people head to Beaufort to enjoy the beach. The town has a nice waterfront, but you have to head about half an hour out of town for a real beach. One of the best options is Hunting Island State Park.


Is Savannah or Beaufort Better for its Old Town?

Savannah
Beaufort

It's fun to wander around the very good old towns in both Savannah and Beaufort.

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.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Beaufort. Historic homes, some that were built before the Civil War, offer a glimpse into the past. Beaufort is the second oldest town in South Carolina and it holds on to much of its charm and character.

Is the Shopping Better in Savannah or Beaufort?

Savannah
Beaufort

Savannah is notable for shopping. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good 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 Beaufort. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Is Savannah or Beaufort Better for Families?

Savannah
Beaufort

Savannah is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Savannah is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Beaufort is not always a place people visit with their families. There are parks and outdoor activities in the area, but one of the best options is to head out of town to the beach.


Is Savannah or Beaufort Better for Couples?

Savannah
Beaufort

With fun activities for couples, both Savannah and Beaufort make for a very good place to visit.

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.

Beaufort makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many charming and romantic spots around town as well as historic inns where you can stay. Couples will enjoy the waterfront area or exploring one of the nature parks that are nearby. There are also quaint local restaurants that make for a nice date night.

Is Savannah or Beaufort Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Savannah
Beaufort

Savannah is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Beaufort is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There aren't any real places for backpackers to stay in the area.

Is Savannah or Beaufort Better for Students?

Savannah
Beaufort

Savannah is a nice place to visit for students. However, Beaufort 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.

Beaufort is not popular with students.


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

Savannah
Beaufort

Savannah is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Beaufort 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 Beaufort. There is no reliable public transportation system in the area.

Is Savannah or Beaufort a more walkable city?

Savannah
Beaufort

Savannah and Beaufort both are very good when exploring on foot.

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

Beaufort is a very walkable city. The quaint downtown is walkable and offers easy access to art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

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

Should I spend more time in Beaufort or Savannah?

How long in Savannah or Beaufort?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Savannah and Beaufort. In our opinion, Savannah has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Savannah than Beaufort. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Savannah than Beaufort 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 Savannah or Beaufort? Ideal Length of Stay
    Savannah 1-3 
    Beaufort 1-3

One day in Savannah or Beaufort?

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.

Beaufort is a small town where visitors enjoy the 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 Savannah or Beaufort?

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.

Beaufort is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town 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 Beaufort, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Savannah or Beaufort?

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.

Beaufort 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 Savannah or Beaufort?

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.

Beaufort 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 town offers something for everyone.


Which place is cheaper, Beaufort or Savannah?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Savannah is $160, while the average daily cost in Beaufort is $131. 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 Savannah and Beaufort in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Savannah $84
    Beaufort $100
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Savannah $168
    Beaufort $200
Compare Hotels in Savannah and Beaufort

Looking for a hotel in Savannah or Beaufort? 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 Savannah


Hotels in Beaufort


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: Savannah Hotel Prices and Beaufort Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Savannah $27
    Beaufort -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Savannah

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Savannah:

  • Grave Encounters Tour with Guide and Transfers: $32
  • African American History Walking Tour w/ Transfer: $64
  • Savannah to Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) - Departure Private Transfer: $104
  • Private Transfer from SAV to Savannah: $207
  • Private Transfer from SAV to Hilton Head Island, SC : $224
  • Private Transfer from Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Hilton Head Island, SC: $224
  • Private Transfer from Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Savannah : $259
  • Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV): Private Transfer to Savannah: $439

Is it cheaper to fly into Savannah or Beaufort?

Prices for flights to both Beaufort and Savannah 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
    Savannah $58
    Beaufort $31

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
  • Monday Gospel Dinner Cruise: $76
  • Savannah First Squares Culinary & Cultural Walking Food Tour: $82
  • Savannah's Port City Walking Food Tour: $82
  • 3-Hour First Squares 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.
    Savannah $17
    Beaufort -
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
  • Ghosts of Savannah Self-Guided Haunted Tour: $7.75
  • 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
  • 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
  • Savannah Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Savannah Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $13
  • Savannah Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $14
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $15

Tours and Activities in Beaufort

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

  • Historic City Tour by Bus: $29
  • Local History and Film Sites Tour by golf cart: $32
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $40
  • Gullah Heritage Tour: $49
  • Beaufort Tipsy Tour: $55

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Savannah $34
    Beaufort -

Sample the Local Flavors in Savannah

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Savannah:

  • Epic Savannah Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • Spanish Moss Haunted Savannah Pub Crawl: $20
  • Savannah Beer and Boos Haunted Pub Crawl: $25
  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Bloody Murder Savannah Pub Crawl: $30
  • Savannah Bar Crawl by the Bridge: $32
  • Late Night Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl: $33
  • Spooky Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl: $33
  • True Crime Pub Crawl - the Original Savannah Murder Tour: $35
  • Midnight in the Garden Walking Tour and Pub Crawl: $35
  • Pub Crawl and Ghost Tour: $35


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Savannah and Beaufort, we can see that Savannah is more expensive. And not only is Beaufort much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Beaufort would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Beaufort 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 Beaufort.

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


Which is Bigger, Savannah or Beaufort?

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

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 Savannah or Beaufort in the Summer?

Both Beaufort and Savannah are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Savannah for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Beaufort in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite sunny in Beaufort. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Savannah. Savannah usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort during summer. Savannah gets 267 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 267 hours of full sun in the summer.

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


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

Should I visit Savannah or Beaufort in the Autumn?

Both Beaufort and Savannah during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Savannah in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Beaufort for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Savannah. In the autumn, Savannah often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort. Savannah gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 223 hours of full sun.

Savannah usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Beaufort. Savannah gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Savannah 68°F (20°C) 
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Savannah or Beaufort in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Savannah and Beaufort. Most visitors come to Savannah for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Savannah is generally around the same temperature as Beaufort. Daily temperatures in Savannah average around 49°F (9°C), and Beaufort fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Savannah usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort during winter. Savannah gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 176 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Savannah usually receives around the same amount of rain as Beaufort. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Savannah 49°F (9°C) 
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Savannah or Beaufort in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Savannah as well as Beaufort. The spring months attract visitors to Savannah because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year.

Savannah is around the same temperature as Beaufort in the spring. The daily temperature in Savannah averages around 66°F (19°C) in April, and Beaufort fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Savannah this time of the year. In the spring, Savannah often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort. Savannah gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 275 hours of full sun.

Savannah usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Beaufort. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Savannah 66°F (19°C) 
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Beaufort and Savannah

Savannah Beaufort
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 49°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 59°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
Apr 66°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Jun 79°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)