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

Should you visit Savannah or Raleigh?

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

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

Raleigh

Raleigh is a suburban-style, friendly, and southern city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and museums.

Savannah and Raleigh: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Savannah or Raleigh?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Savannah than Raleigh. While Raleigh is larger than Savannah, Savannah has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Savannah is better known for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Raleigh is more popular for its nightlife and big city activities. Savannah is more touristy than Raleigh and is known for its maritime past, its southern atmosphere, and its Historic District. Also, Savannah is famous for Forsyth Park. Raleigh is well known for its many museums and being the home to North Carolina State University.

How is Savannah different from Raleigh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Savannah is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Raleigh is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. As the state capital, there are a number of free museums in the area. There are also some kid-friendly options and other activities that are affiliated with the colleges and universities. Popular options include the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (free), the NC Museum of History (free), the NC Museum of Art (free), and Marbles Kids Museum.

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

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

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 Raleigh. In addition to the standard chain restaurants, you'll find a number of local eateries with great southern dishes. Try some southern classics like barbecue, pimento cheese, and fried chicken and waffles. There are also good international options including Nepalese, Laotian, and Ethiopian flavors.

Is Savannah or Raleigh Better for Nightlife?

Raleigh 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 Raleigh. Head to downtown Raleigh or the areas around NC State University for some of the best nightlife. Trivia nights and happy hours are popular and you'll find breweries popping up in many places.

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 Raleigh Better for Beaches?

Savannah is a popular place for the beach. However, Raleigh 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.

Raleigh is not a beach destination.

Is Savannah or Raleigh Better for its Old Town?

Savannah is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Raleigh 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.

Raleigh does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Savannah or Raleigh?

Savannah is well known for its shopping areas. However, Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Savannah or Raleigh Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Savannah or Raleigh.

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.

Raleigh is a family-friendly city. For such a small city, Raleigh has a number of unique kid-friendly activities like the popular Pullen Park and Marbles Kids' Museum. Pullen Park has small rides and a playground that are perfect for young kids. There's also the NC Museum of Natural History which is free and fun to explore with kids.

Is Savannah or Raleigh Better for Couples?

Savannah is well known for couples. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for romance.

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.

Raleigh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. While it's often overlooked by couples who want a weekend away, there are a number of museums and some nice restaurants to explore.

Is Savannah or Raleigh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Savannah is a popular place for backpackers. However, Raleigh is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Raleigh is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Savannah or Raleigh Better for Students?

Raleigh 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.

Raleigh is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a diverse student population with many nearby universities and colleges.

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

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

Savannah is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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 quite limited in Raleigh. The city's public transportation options are limited to a few bus lines that are mostly used by students.

Is Savannah or Raleigh a more walkable city?

Savannah is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Raleigh is not particularly known 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.

Raleigh is generally not a very walkable city. The city is somewhat walkable in the downtown area, but everywhere else you'll need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Raleigh or Savannah?

How long in Savannah or Raleigh?

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

Families should spend more time in Savannah than Raleigh. 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 Raleigh. 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh?

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.

The city of Raleigh offers nightlife and 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 Raleigh?

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.

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

Five days in Savannah or Raleigh?

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.

Raleigh 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 Raleigh?

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.

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

Which is Bigger, Savannah or Raleigh?

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

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 Raleigh in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Savannah and Raleigh. The summer months attract visitors to Savannah because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Raleigh this time of year.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Raleigh 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 Raleigh during summer. Savannah gets 267 hours of sunny skies, while Raleigh receives 259 hours of full sun in the summer.

Raleigh 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 Raleigh. Savannah gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Savannah or Raleigh in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Savannah as well as Raleigh. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Savannah this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Raleigh for the city's sights and attractions.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Raleigh. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Savannah this time of the year. In the autumn, Savannah often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Raleigh. Savannah gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Raleigh receives 211 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Savannah or Raleigh in the Winter?

Both Raleigh and Savannah are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Savannah for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Raleigh in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

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

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

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

Should I visit Savannah or Raleigh in the Spring?

Both Raleigh and Savannah during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Savannah in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Raleigh for the activities around the city during these months.

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

In Raleigh, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Savannah. In the spring, Savannah often gets more sunshine than Raleigh. Savannah gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Raleigh receives 251 hours of full sun.

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

Typical Weather for Raleigh and Savannah