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

Should you visit Savannah or Charleston?

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

Should I visit Savannah or Charleston? 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 offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Charleston

Charleston is a charming, southern, and quaint coastal town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Savannah and Charleston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Savannah or Charleston?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Charleston than Savannah. While Savannah is larger than Charleston, Charleston has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Charleston is better known for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Savannah is more popular for its museums. Charleston is more touristy than Savannah and is known for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. Also, Charleston is famous for The Waterfront Park. Savannah is well known for its maritime past, its southern atmosphere, and its Historic District.

How is Savannah different from Charleston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Charleston 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 Charleston?

Savannah is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal 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.

Charleston is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. This city is famous for its many historic churches and plantations. The plantations are open to visit and will educate you on the city's past, which is heavily involved in slavery. You can also visit Fort Sumter National Monument by boat or take a tour of the USS Yorktown.

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

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Charleston is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Food lovers will enjoy the city's low country classics. There are many local restaurants in town that serve southern specialties. You can also head a bit out of the town center if you want a waterfront restaurant. Local favorites include she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes.

Savannah has a huge number of terrific 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 Savannah or Charleston Better for Nightlife?

Charleston 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 Charleston. As a college town, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs around town. There's also a lively music scene. Head to the areas near the college for the most affordable and active nightlife. Popular clubs in town include Cure Night Club, Deco Nightclub, and Mynt.

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 Charleston Better for Music?

Charleston is a popular place for live music. However, Savannah is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Charleston is active and vibrant. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Savannah is not a live music destination.

Is Savannah or Charleston Better for Resorts?

Charleston is a popular place for its resorts. However, Savannah is not a resort destination.

Charleston has a handful of resorts to choose from. The town has mostly hotels and bed and breakfasts in the downtown area, but nearby Kiawah Island has a number of nice resorts to choose from. Kiawah Island is particularly kid-friendly if you're looking for a family beach vacation. If you have a bit more money to spend and want something more residential, check out nearby Seabrook Island.

Savannah is not a resort destination.

Is Savannah or Charleston Better for Beaches?

Charleston 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.

Charleston is considered a top beach destination. The area has a number of beautiful and fun nearby beaches including Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Folly Beach is an active and quirky beach area, while Kiawah is more family-friendly. Seabrook is more residential and more expensive.

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 Savannah or Charleston Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for its historic old town. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.

Charleston offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Charleston's downtown is one of the most charming and well preserved Old Town's in the United States. It's easy to see why it's become a world class destination.

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 Savannah or Charleston?

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for shopping. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Charleston is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is famous for its historic market in the center of town. Local goods, foods, and crafts are sold daily here. There are also many clothing and local shops throughout town, particularly along King Street, which has boutiques and high end outlets. Outside of town, stop by Tanger Outlet Mall if you want name brands at a discount price.

Savannah is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Is Savannah or Charleston Better for Christmas?

Charleston is a well-known place for its Christmas activities. However, Savannah does not offer Christmas activities.

Charleston is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. During the Christmas season there are a number of festivals, light shows, and even a boat parade that everyone can enjoy.

Savannah does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Savannah or Charleston Better for Christmas Markets?

Charleston is a popular place for its Christmas markets. However, Savannah does not offer Christmas markets.

Many visitors go to the Christmas markets in Charleston. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

Savannah does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Savannah or Charleston Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Savannah or Charleston.

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.

Charleston is a family-friendly city. The city has a number of family-friendly activities like carriage rides and boat rides. There's also an aquarium, a waterfront park, and many kid-friendly museums. The nearby beaches also make it a wonderful place to visit with kids.

Is Savannah or Charleston Better for Couples?

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for romance. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Charleston makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful city is one of the most popular wedding destinations in America. It's a very romantic setting with beautiful hotels and bed and breakfasts that are perfect for couples on their honeymoon or looking for a romantic setting.

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 Savannah or Charleston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Savannah is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Charleston is a mediocre coastal 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.

Charleston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Hotels in the old town tend to be pricey and there isn't the backpacker community that you find in many other destinations. Still, there are a couple of hostels.

Is Savannah or Charleston Better for Students?

Savannah and Charleston are both notable destinations for students and younger travelers.

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.

Plenty of students visit Charleston. The city is a college town with a young vibe that is perfect for students. There's a nice university area where you'll find cheaper places to eat and a good nightlife scene.

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

Both Savannah and Charleston offer respectable public transit options.

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 mostly limited in Charleston. While there are some buses, you really must have a car to fully experience the entire area.

Is Savannah or Charleston a more walkable city?

Savannah and Charleston 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.

Charleston is a very walkable city. The downtown area is very walkable, but once you leave the historic heart, it's best to have a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Charleston or Savannah?

How long in Savannah or Charleston?

Both Savannah and Charleston have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Charleston than in Savannah. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Savannah, and 2-7 days is enough time in Charleston.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charleston than Savannah 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 Charleston.

One day in Savannah or Charleston?

With museums and food around the beautiful city of Savannah, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Savannah, one day is sufficent for most.

The beautiful coastal town of Charleston offers museums and nightlife. 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.

A weekend in Savannah or Charleston?

With food and shopping around the destination of Savannah, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Charleston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Charleston, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Savannah or Charleston?

Savannah, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Charleston is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Charleston, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Savannah or Charleston?

Savannah is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Charleston 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 Charleston has to offer. This coastal town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Savannah or Charleston?

Savannah has a larger population, and is about 36% larger than the population of Charleston. When comparing the sizes of Savannah and Charleston, 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 Charleston?

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 Charleston in the Summer?

Both Charleston 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 Charleston in the summer for the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite sunny in Charleston. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Savannah. Savannah usually receives less sunshine than Charleston during summer. Savannah gets 267 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 293 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Charleston. It's quite rainy in Savannah. In July, Savannah usually receives more rain than Charleston. Savannah gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Savannah or Charleston in the Autumn?

Both Charleston 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 Charleston for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Savannah is around the same temperature as Charleston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Savannah averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Charleston fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

It's quite sunny in Savannah. In the autumn, Savannah often gets more sunshine than Charleston. Savannah gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 197 hours of full sun.

Savannah usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Charleston. Savannah gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Savannah or Charleston in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Savannah is around the same temperature as Charleston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Savannah in January average around 49°F (9°C), and Charleston averages at about 47°F (9°C).

Savannah usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston during winter. Savannah gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 188 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Savannah usually receives less rain than Charleston. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Savannah or Charleston in the Spring?

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

In April, Savannah is generally around the same temperature as Charleston. Daily temperatures in Savannah average around 66°F (19°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charleston. 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 Charleston. Savannah gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 275 hours of full sun.

Savannah usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Charleston. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Charleston and Savannah