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

Should you visit Savannah or Galveston?

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

Should I visit Savannah or Galveston? 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 scenic, historic, and beautiful city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the museums, food, and beaches.

Galveston

Galveston is a historic, charming, and coastal town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and museums.

Savannah and Galveston: 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
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Savannah or Galveston?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Galveston than Savannah. While Savannah is larger than Galveston, Galveston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Galveston is very popular for its nightlife and small town charm, while Savannah attracts visitors for its food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Galveston is more touristy than Savannah and is popular for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes. It is also well known for Pleasure Pier. Savannah is famous for its maritime past, its southern atmosphere, and its Historic District.

How is Savannah different from Galveston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Savannah
Galveston

Both Savannah and Galveston 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 Galveston specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. With its long history and Victorian homes, there are a number of museums around town. A favorite mansion is the 1892 Bishop's Palace. There's also the Galveston Railroad Museum and the Galveston Arts Center.


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

Savannah
Galveston

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

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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Galveston area. There's a great mix of seafood and Texas favorites. Seafood-lovers will enjoy the oysters, crab cakes, and po boys while land-lovers will like the brisket, Tex Mex, and Texas chili.

Is Savannah or Galveston Better for Nightlife?

Savannah
Galveston

Galveston is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Savannah is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Galveston offers plenty to do in the evening. There's a bit of a party town vibe in the evenings. Head to Pleasure Pier for rides and entertainment. The town also has taverns, lounges, and bars that you can check out.

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 Galveston Better for Beaches?

Savannah
Galveston

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Savannah and Galveston are nice 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 Galveston to enjoy the beach. There are miles of beaches that spread out from town. Some of the best include Babe's Beach, Stewart Beach, and Crystal Beach. Because of the proximity to the Mississippi River, the water can be a bit murky, but the beaches are still fun.


Is Savannah or Galveston Better for its Old Town?

Savannah
Galveston

Savannah is great for its old town. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its historic old town charm.

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.

Galveston offers a nice historic old town area. The East End Historic District is filled with historic mansions with beautiful porches. It's possible to take a tour or you could explore independently.

Is the Shopping Better in Savannah or Galveston?

Savannah
Galveston

Savannah is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping areas.

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.

Many visitors go to Galveston to go shopping. There are plenty of places to pick up souvenirs like shell jewelry or t-shirts. There are also more eclectic shops as well as shopping centers and malls.

Is Savannah or Galveston Better for Families?

Savannah
Galveston

Galveston 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.

Galveston is a very family-friendly place to visit. Head to Pier 21 where you'll find museums, harbor tours, and other kid-friendly activities. The city also offers a number of pirate-themed activities that kids enjoy as well as spooky ghost tours. For a bit of a thrill you can check out the rides at Galveston Pleasure Pier. And, of course, there are the beaches.

Savannah is a family-friendly city. 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 Savannah or Galveston Better for Couples?

Savannah
Galveston

With fun activities for couples, both Savannah and Galveston make for a great 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.

Galveston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The Historic District is the perfect place to enjoy a nice meal and soak up the charm. The area's beaches and parks also offer a bit of romance and there are plenty of outdoor activities like kayaking, fishing, or swimming.

Is Savannah or Galveston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Savannah
Galveston

Savannah is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Galveston is not a good destination for backpackers.

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.

Galveston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The beaches are great, but most backpackers don't think to visit Galveston.

Is Savannah or Galveston Better for Students?

Savannah
Galveston

Savannah is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Galveston 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.

Galveston is not popular with students.


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

Savannah
Galveston

Both Savannah and Galveston offer reasonable 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 Galveston. While there are buses and trolley buses, a car is the best way to get around with the greatest flexibility and convenience.

Is Savannah or Galveston a more walkable city?

Savannah
Galveston

Savannah is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice 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.

Galveston is a somewhat walkable city. There are some walkable areas such as the Historic District.

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

Should I spend more time in Galveston or Savannah?

How long in Savannah or Galveston?

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

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

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

One day in Savannah or Galveston?

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.

The town of Galveston 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 Galveston?

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.

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

Five days in Savannah or Galveston?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the charming 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.

Galveston 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 Galveston?

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.

Galveston 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 town 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.


Which place is cheaper, Galveston 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 Galveston is $183. 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 Galveston in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Savannah $84
    Galveston $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Savannah $168
    Galveston $162
Compare Hotels in Savannah and Galveston

Looking for a hotel in Savannah or Galveston? 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 Galveston


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 Galveston Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Savannah $27
    Galveston $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Savannah

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Savannah:

  • Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV): Private Transfer to Savannah: $430
  • Private Transfer from Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Savannah : $256
  • Private Transfer from SAV to Hilton Head Island, SC : $221
  • Private Transfer from Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Hilton Head Island, SC: $221
  • 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: $178
  • Savannah to Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) - Departure Private Transfer: $102
  • African American History Walking Tour w/ Transfer: $64
  • Grave Encounters Tour with Guide and Transfers: $32

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Galveston

Also for Galveston, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Galveston Port to William Hobby Airport Departure Transfer: $167
  • Private Departure Transfer from Galveston Port to HOU Airport: $167
  • Galveston to Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) Private Transfer: $192
  • Privat Transfer from Galveston Port to Houston Airport (IAH): $192

Is it cheaper to fly into Savannah or Galveston?

Prices for flights to both Galveston 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
    Galveston $52

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Galveston

For Galveston, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Taste of the Strand Food Tour on Galveston Island: $105

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Savannah $17
    Galveston $15
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-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
  • 90-Minute Savannah Riverboat Sightseeing Cruise: $41
  • Afterlife Tours- Voices of the Dead Tour: $30

Tours and Activities in Galveston

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Galveston.

  • Self-Guided Ghost Tour on the Galveston Strand: $6.75
  • Luggage Storage in Cruise Terminal: $8.71
  • Unique Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Experience in League City: $10
  • Al's Authentic Paranormal Excursion Tour: $15
  • Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast Museum Ticket: $15
  • Tour Galveston's 1895 Moody Mansion: $18
  • Tour of haunted locations with ghost hunting gear.: $20
  • Galveston Island Ghost Tour: $20
  • Galveston's Flower Winery Tour at the Florvino Winery: $20
  • Galveston Mansions and Murder Walking Tour : $23
  • The Ghosts of Galveston Guided Walking Tour: $25
  • Ghost-Themed Walking Tour: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Savannah $34
    Galveston $37

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 Joe's Haunted Pub Crawl: $20
  • Spanish Moss Haunted Savannah Pub Crawl: $20
  • Captain Stoner Dive Bar Crawl Ticket: $25
  • Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl-Walking Tour Historic District: $25
  • Bad Kitty Haunted Savannah Pub Crawl - Spooky, naughty ghosts: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Bloody Murder Savannah Pub Crawl: $30
  • Conjuring Cocktails Pub Crawl: $30
  • Savannah Bar Crawl by the Bridge: $32

Sample the Local Flavors in Galveston

Also in Galveston, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Galveston Island Brewing Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting : $10
  • Galveston's Best Pub Crawl: $25
  • Happy Hour Pub Crawl: $25
  • Galveston Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30


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


Which is Bigger, Savannah or Galveston?

Savannah has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Galveston. When comparing the sizes of Savannah and Galveston, 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 Galveston?

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 Savannah or Galveston in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Savannah as well as Galveston. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Savannah this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Galveston for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Savannah is around the same temperature as Galveston. Typically, the summer temperatures in Savannah in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Galveston averages at about 84°F (29°C).

Savannah receives a lot of rain in the summer. Savannah usually gets more rain in July than Galveston. Savannah gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Savannah or Galveston in the Autumn?

Both Galveston and Savannah are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Savannah for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Galveston in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Savannah is generally cooler than Galveston. Daily temperatures in Savannah average around 68°F (20°C), and Galveston fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

In October, Savannah usually receives more rain than Galveston. Savannah gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Savannah 68°F (20°C) 
    Galveston 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Savannah or Galveston in the Winter?

Both Galveston and Savannah during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Savannah in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Galveston for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Savannah is cooler than Galveston in the winter. The daily temperature in Savannah averages around 49°F (9°C) in January, and Galveston fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

Savannah usually gets more rain in January than Galveston. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Savannah 49°F (9°C) 
    Galveston 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Savannah or Galveston in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Savannah and Galveston. Most visitors come to Savannah for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Galveston because of the beaches and the small town charm.

In the spring, Savannah is cooler than Galveston. Typically, the spring temperatures in Savannah in April average around 66°F (19°C), and Galveston averages at about 70°F (21°C).

In April, Savannah usually receives more rain than Galveston. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Savannah 66°F (19°C) 
    Galveston 70°F (21°C)

Typical Weather for Galveston and Savannah

Savannah Galveston
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 49°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Mar 59°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Apr 66°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 70°F (21°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 76°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jun 79°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 81°F (27°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 84°F (29°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 83°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 71°F (22°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)