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

Should you visit Savannah or Durham?

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

Should I visit Savannah or Durham? 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.

Durham

Durham is a student-filled, sports oriented, and diverse city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Savannah and Durham: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Savannah or Durham?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Savannah than Durham. While Durham is larger than Savannah, Savannah has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Savannah is better known for its food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Durham is more popular for its nightlife. Savannah is more touristy than Durham and is known for its maritime past, its southern atmosphere, and its Historic District. Also, Savannah is famous for Forsyth Park. Durham is well known for its college town vibe as well as being the home of the famous Blue Devil basketball team.

How is Savannah different from Durham?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Savannah and Durham have great landmarks and museums for visitors.

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.

Many visitors head to Durham specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Duke University is one of the most popular destinations in town. There are several museums on campus as well as the famous Duke Chapel. Elsewhere in Durham there's the Durham Museum of Life and Science.

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

Savannah is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Savannah is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Durham. Barbecue is a favorite around town. You'll also find plenty of restaurants that cater to the student population, particularly along Nineth Street near Duke's campus.

Is Savannah or Durham Better for Nightlife?

Durham 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 Durham. The younger population tends to hang out near campus and along Nineth Street. If you're looking for something less student oriented, head to downtown Durham.

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 Durham Better for Beaches?

Savannah is very good for the beach. However, Durham is not a beach destination.

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.

Durham is not a beach destination.

Is Savannah or Durham Better for its Old Town?

Savannah is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Durham 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.

Durham does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Savannah or Durham?

Savannah is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Durham. The Streets of Southpoint is the best mall in the area. Other shopping areas include Brightleaf Square and Nineth Street.

Is Savannah or Durham Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Savannah or Durham.

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.

Durham is a family-friendly city. A highlight for kids is a visit to the Durham Museum of Life and Science. It has both an indoor and an outdoor section and brings science to life for families. There's also an impressive playground and climbing area. Other activities in town include the Notasium and Eno River State Park. If you plan ahead you could also organize a trip to the Duke Lemur Center.

Is Savannah or Durham Better for Couples?

Savannah is a well-known place for couples. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Durham is a nice destination for couples. Have a picnic at the Sarah P. Duke Gardens or spend the day hiking at Eno River State Park. In the evening there's a wonderful selection of restaurants around town. Then you can check out a show at the Durham Performing Arts Center or see a Durham Bulls game.

Is Savannah or Durham Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Savannah is very good for backpackers. However, Durham is not a good city 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.

Durham is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The student population means there are a number of parties and bars around town, but most backpackers overlook this city.

Is Savannah or Durham Better for Students?

Durham 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.

Durham is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. Duke University has a stunning campus with a world class garden. There's also nearby Nineth Street, which has shops, restaurants, and bars that are geared toward the student population.

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

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

Both Savannah and Durham 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 Durham. There are buses around town, but you really need a car to explore the area.

Is Savannah or Durham a more walkable city?

Savannah is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Durham is not a good city for its walkability.

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

Durham is generally not a very walkable city. Downtown Durham and a few areas near Duke University are the most walkable areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Durham or Savannah?

How long in Savannah or Durham?

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

Families should spend more time in Savannah than Durham. 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 Durham. 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 Durham 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 Savannah or Durham?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Savannah. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

The city of Durham offers food and shopping. 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 Durham?

Savannah is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Durham 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Durham, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Savannah or Durham?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Savannah. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Durham 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 Durham?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Savannah. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Durham is a great place to explore. 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 Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Savannah or Durham?

Durham has a larger population, and is about 56% larger than the population of Savannah. When comparing the sizes of Savannah and Durham, 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 Durham?

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 Durham in the Summer?

Both Durham and Savannah are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Savannah this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Durham for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Savannah is generally around the same temperature as Durham. Daily temperatures in Savannah average around 82°F (28°C), and Durham fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Durham. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Savannah. Savannah usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Durham during summer. Savannah gets 267 hours of sunny skies, while Durham receives 259 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Durham. It's quite rainy in Savannah. In July, Savannah usually receives more rain than Durham. Savannah gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Durham receives 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Savannah or Durham in the Autumn?

Both Durham and Savannah during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Savannah for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Durham in the autumn for the shopping scene.

Savannah is a little warmer than Durham in the autumn. The daily temperature in Savannah averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Durham fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

In Durham, 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 Durham. Savannah gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Durham receives 211 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Savannah or Durham in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Savannah and Durham. Many visitors come to Savannah in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Durham for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Durham can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Savannah is much warmer than Durham. Typically, the winter temperatures in Savannah in January average around 49°F (9°C), and Durham averages at about 40°F (5°C).

Savannah usually receives more sunshine than Durham during winter. Savannah gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Durham receives 162 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Savannah usually receives less rain than Durham. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Durham receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Savannah or Durham in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Savannah as well as Durham. Most visitors come to Savannah for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Savannah is generally a little warmer than Durham. Daily temperatures in Savannah average around 66°F (19°C), and Durham fluctuates around 60°F (16°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Durham. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Savannah this time of the year. In the spring, Savannah often gets more sunshine than Durham. Savannah gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Durham receives 251 hours of full sun.

Savannah usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Durham. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Durham receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Durham and Savannah