A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Savannah vs. Nags Head for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Savannah or Nags Head?

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

Should I visit Savannah or Nags Head? 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 gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and beaches.

Nags Head

It's also known for food.

Savannah and Nags Head: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Savannah or Nags Head?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Savannah. Although Savannah and Nags Head are both popular with visitors, Savannah has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Savannah is more touristy than Nags Head and is popular for its maritime past, its southern atmosphere, and its Historic District. It is also home to Forsyth Park. Nags Head is popular for

How is Savannah different from Nags Head?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Savannah
Nags Head

Savannah is great for its historical sights. However, Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Savannah
Nags Head

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

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Nags Head. There are a wide variety of seafood restaurants that serve locally caught fish, shrimp, and crabs. Cajon flavors are popular and you'll also find cheese grits at many places.

Is Savannah or Nags Head Better for Beaches?

Savannah
Nags Head

Savannah is a popular place for its beaches. However, Nags Head is not a beach destination.

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.

Nags Head is not a beach destination.

Is Savannah or Nags Head Better for its Old Town?

Savannah
Nags Head

Savannah is great for its historic old town. However, Nags Head does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Savannah. There's an impressive Historic District that is filled with gardens, historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and Oak-lined streets. There are wonderful hotels and traditional restaurants that offer a beautiful experience.

Nags Head does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Savannah or Nags Head?

Savannah
Nags Head

Savannah is great for shopping. However, Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Savannah or Nags Head Better for Families?

Savannah
Nags Head

Nags Head 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.

Nags Head is a very family-friendly place to visit. It makes a wonderful base for the many family-friendly activities in the area. Jockey's Ridge is a fun place to visit with kids. There are also wonderful beaches and many kids enjoying flying kites.

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 Nags Head Better for Couples?

Savannah
Nags Head

Savannah is great for romance. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its romantic activities.

Savannah is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Nags Head makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are great seafood restaurants and a number of activities in the area that are fun for couples.


Is Savannah or Nags Head Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Savannah
Nags Head

Both Savannah and Nags Head are good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Nags Head is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. This is one of the more affordable places to stay in the Outer Banks, so it appeals to more budget-oriented travelers.

Is Savannah or Nags Head Better for Students?

Savannah
Nags Head

Savannah is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Nags Head 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.

Nags Head is not popular with students.

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

Savannah
Nags Head

Savannah is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Nags Head does not have public transit.

Public transit is mostly 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.

Nags Head does not have public transit.


Is Savannah or Nags Head a more walkable city?

Savannah
Nags Head

Savannah is great for its walkability. However, Nags Head is not a walkable destination.

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

Nags Head is not a walkable destination.

Should I spend more time in Nags Head or Savannah?

How long in Savannah or Nags Head?

Both Savannah and Nags Head have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Nags Head than in Savannah. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Savannah, and 4-7 days is enough time in Nags Head.

Families should spend more time in Savannah than Nags Head. 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 Nags Head. 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 Nags Head 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 Nags Head? Ideal Length of Stay
    Savannah 1-3 
    Nags Head 4-7

One day in Savannah or Nags Head?

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 of Nags Head offers food. 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 Nags Head?

You'll find museums and food around the historic 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.

Nags Head is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Savannah or Nags Head?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic 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.

Nags Head is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Nags Head, 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 Nags Head?

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.

Nags Head is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nags Head has to offer. This offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Nags Head 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 Nags Head is $149. 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 Nags Head in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Savannah $84
    Nags Head $80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Savannah $168
    Nags Head $160
Compare Hotels in Savannah and Nags Head

Looking for a hotel in Savannah or Nags Head? 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 Nags Head


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 Nags Head Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Savannah $27
    Nags Head $40

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Savannah or Nags Head?

Prices for flights to both Nags Head 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
    Nags Head $41

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Savannah $17
    Nags Head $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:

  • "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 Nags Head

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

  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $12
  • Wright Brothers Carolina Dunes: Self-Guided Driving Tour: $13
  • Outer Banks Audio Driving Tour: $13
  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Wright Brothers Carolina Dunes Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Outer Banks Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $25
  • OBX Ghost Tours: $25
  • Manteo Historic Walking Tour: $28
  • Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest Kayak Tour: $49
  • 2-hour Outer Banks Wild Horse Tour by 4WD Truck: $57
  • Alligator River Kayak Adventure: $59
  • Corolla Kayak Adventure: $59

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Savannah $34
    Nags Head $12

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


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


Which is Bigger, Savannah or Nags Head?

Savannah has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Nags Head. When comparing the sizes of Savannah and Nags Head, 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 Nags Head?

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 Nags Head in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Savannah as well as Nags Head. The summer months attract visitors to Savannah because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nags Head this time of year.

Savannah is around the same temperature as Nags Head in the summer. The daily temperature in Savannah averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Nags Head fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nags Head. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Savannah this time of the year. In the summer, Savannah often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Nags Head. Savannah gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nags Head receives 274 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nags Head. Savannah receives a lot of rain in the summer. Savannah usually gets more rain in July than Nags Head. Savannah gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Savannah 82°F (28°C) 
    Nags Head 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit Savannah or Nags Head in the Autumn?

Both Nags Head and Savannah are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Savannah this time of year.

In the autumn, Savannah is a little warmer than Nags Head. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Savannah in October average around 68°F (20°C), and Nags Head averages at about 62°F (16°C).

It's quite sunny in Nags Head. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Savannah. Savannah usually receives more sunshine than Nags Head during autumn. Savannah gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Nags Head receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Savannah usually receives less rain than Nags Head. Savannah gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Savannah 68°F (20°C) 
    Nags Head 62°F (16°C)

Should I visit Savannah or Nags Head in the Winter?

Both Nags Head and Savannah during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Savannah for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Nags Head in the winter for the cuisine.

Nags Head can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Savannah is generally much warmer than Nags Head. Daily temperatures in Savannah average around 49°F (9°C), and Nags Head fluctuates around 41°F (5°C).

In the winter, Savannah often gets more sunshine than Nags Head. Savannah gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nags Head receives 147 hours of full sun.

Nags Head gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Savannah usually gets less rain in January than Nags Head. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Savannah 49°F (9°C) 
    Nags Head 41°F (5°C)

Should I visit Savannah or Nags Head in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Savannah and Nags Head. Many visitors come to Savannah in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Savannah is a little warmer than Nags Head in the spring. The daily temperature in Savannah averages around 66°F (19°C) in April, and Nags Head fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nags Head this time of the year. In Savannah, it's very sunny this time of the year. Savannah usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nags Head during spring. Savannah gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Nags Head receives 262 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Savannah usually receives around the same amount of rain as Nags Head. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Savannah 66°F (19°C) 
    Nags Head 59°F (15°C)

Typical Weather for Nags Head and Savannah

Savannah Nags Head
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 49°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 41°F (5°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Mar 59°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Apr 66°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 67°F (19°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Jun 79°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 78°F (26°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 78°F (25°C) 5 inches (127 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 72°F (22°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 62°F (16°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 53°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)