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

Should you visit Savannah or Houston?

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

Should I visit Savannah or Houston? 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 charming, scenic, and historic city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Houston

Houston is a sprawling, southern, and one-of-a-kind city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Savannah and Houston: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Savannah or Houston?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Houston than Savannah. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Houston is very popular for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Savannah attracts visitors for its food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Savannah is more touristy than Houston and is known for its maritime past, its southern atmosphere, and its Historic District. Houston is famous for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA. It is also well known for The Space Center Houston.

How is Savannah different from Houston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Savannah
Houston

Both Savannah and Houston have superb 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 Houston specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.


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

Savannah
Houston

Savannah is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Savannah. 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.

Houston is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

Is Savannah or Houston Better for Nightlife?

Savannah
Houston

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

Houston offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

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 Houston Better for Music?

Savannah
Houston

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

The music scene in Houston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Savannah is not a live music destination.


Is Savannah or Houston Better for Beaches?

Savannah
Houston

Savannah is a good destination for the beache. However, Houston is not a beach destination.

Savannah offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Houston is not a beach destination.

Is Savannah or Houston Better for its Old Town?

Savannah
Houston

Savannah is well known for its old town. However, Houston does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Houston does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Savannah or Houston?

Savannah
Houston

Savannah is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Houston has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.


Is Savannah or Houston Better for Families?

Savannah
Houston

Houston 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.

Houston is a very family-friendly place to visit. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

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 Houston Better for Couples?

Savannah
Houston

Savannah is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Savannah frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Houston is a good city for couples to visit. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

Is Savannah or Houston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Savannah
Houston

Savannah is a good destination for backpackers. However, Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is Savannah or Houston Better for Students?

Savannah
Houston

Savannah and Houston are both nice 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 Houston. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

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

Savannah
Houston

Both Savannah and Houston 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 Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

Is Savannah or Houston a more walkable city?

Savannah
Houston

Savannah is well known for its high level of walkability. However, Houston is not particularly known 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.

Houston is generally not a very walkable city. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.


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

Should I spend more time in Houston or Savannah?

How long in Savannah or Houston?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Savannah and Houston. In our opinion, Savannah has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Savannah than Houston. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Savannah, and 2-3 days is enough time in Houston.

Couples should spend more time in Savannah than Houston. 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 Houston 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 Houston? Ideal Length of Stay
    Savannah 1-3 
    Houston 2-3

One day in Savannah or Houston?

In Savannah, you'll find museums and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Houston is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Houston?

In Savannah, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Savannah has to offer.

Houston 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 Houston, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Savannah or Houston?

Savannah is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Houston 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 Houston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Savannah. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Savannah. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Houston 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.


Which place is cheaper, Houston 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 Houston is $262. 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 Houston in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Savannah $84
    Houston $142
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Savannah $168
    Houston $284
Compare Hotels in Savannah and Houston

Looking for a hotel in Savannah or Houston? 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 Houston


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 Houston Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Savannah $27
    Houston $72

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Savannah

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Savannah:

  • Private Transfer from SAV to Hilton Head Island, SC : $220
  • Private Transfer from SAV to Savannah: $204
  • Private Transfer from Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Hilton Head Island, SC: $220
  • Private Transfer from Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Savannah : $255
  • Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV): Private Transfer to Savannah: $430
  • 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 Houston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Houston:

  • Private Departure Transfer to Houston George Bush Airport IAH: $51
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Houston George Bush Airport (IAH): $51
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Houston George Bush Airport to Houston Downtown: $60
  • Private Hotel Transfer in Houston: $80
  • Transfer in private minivan from Houston George Bush Airport to Houston Downtown: $88
  • Departure Private Transfer: Houston to George Bush Airport IAH in Business Car: $105
  • Arrival Private Transfer: George Bush Airport IAH to Houston in Business Car: $107
  • Departure Private Transfer: Houston to George Bush Airport IAH in Luxury SUV: $108
  • Arrival Private Transfer: George Bush Airport IAH to Houston in Luxury SUV: $108
  • Round trip transfer in private car from-to Houston Airport in Houston Downtown: $120
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Houston APT-HTL (IAH): $151
  • Houston William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Houston - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $160

Is it cheaper to fly into Savannah or Houston?

Prices for flights to both Houston 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
    Houston $35

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 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
  • 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
  • True South Lunch Food Tour: $106

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Houston

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Houston.

  • Seasonal Pizza From Scratch Experience in Houston: $55
  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access: $70
  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access: $70
  • The Heights Food Tour in Houston: $76
  • Downtown Houston Food Tour: $76
  • Houston Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $85
  • Houston Downtown: Secret Food Tours: $87
  • Howdy H-Town EADO Food Tour: $90
  • East Downtown Food Tour: $90
  • Houston Heights Culture and Food Tour: $95

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Savannah $17
    Houston $14
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
  • Self-Guided 'Old Squares of Savannah' Solo Walking Tour: $7.50
  • 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
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Savannah by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Skip the Line: General Admission Webb Military Museum Ticket: $10
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $13
  • Savannah Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Savannah Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $13
  • Self-Guided Ghost Walking Audio Tour: $14

Tours and Activities in Houston

Here are a few actual costs in Houston for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Sights of Downtown Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $7.25
  • Sights of Downtown Houston Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $7.99
  • Downtown In App Audio Walking Tour: $9.00
  • Houston Museum of Natural Sciences: Planetarium Ticket: $9.00
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Houston by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Houston by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern History Tour: $12
  • Houston Botanic Garden Entry Ticket: $13
  • Sightseeing Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $14
  • Austin & Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Houston Astros Baseball Game Ticket at Minute Maid Park: $18
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Houston with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Savannah $34
    Houston $13

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
  • 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
  • Spooky Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl: $33

Sample the Local Flavors in Houston

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

  • Brewery Pass with Beer Tastings: $50
  • Private Houston Brewery Tour by Cart: $57
  • 2-Hour Downtown Brewery Tour by Electric Cart: $70


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


Which is Bigger, Savannah or Houston?

Houston has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Savannah. When comparing the sizes of Savannah and Houston, 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 Houston?

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 Houston in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Savannah and Houston. Most visitors come to Savannah for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Houston because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

Houston receives a lot of rain in the summer. Savannah gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Savannah usually receives more rain than Houston. Savannah gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Houston receives 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Savannah or Houston in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Savannah as well as Houston. The autumn months attract visitors to Savannah because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Houston this time of year.

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

It's quite rainy in Houston. Savannah usually gets less rain in October than Houston. Savannah gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Houston receives 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Savannah or Houston in the Winter?

Both Houston and Savannah are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Savannah this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Houston for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

In January, Savannah usually receives less rain than Houston. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Houston receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Savannah or Houston in the Spring?

Both Houston and Savannah during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Savannah for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Houston in the spring for the activities around the city.

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

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


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

Typical Weather for Houston and Savannah

Savannah Houston
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 49°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Mar 59°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Apr 66°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 76°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Jun 79°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 84°F (29°C) 4.8 inches (122 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 83°F (29°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 71°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)