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

Should you visit Savannah or Richmond?

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

Should I visit Savannah or Richmond? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Savannah

Savannah is a historic, beautiful, and charming city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Richmond

Richmond is a historical, growing, and friendly city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Savannah and Richmond: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Savannah or Richmond?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Savannah than Richmond. While Richmond is larger than Savannah, Savannah has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Savannah is better known for its food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Richmond is more popular for its nightlife. Savannah is well known for its maritime past, its southern atmosphere, and its Historic District. Also, Savannah is famous for Forsyth Park. Richmond is well known for its cultural and historical sights.

How is Savannah different from Richmond?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Savannah
Richmond

Both Savannah and Richmond 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 Richmond specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has a long history which you can learn about at one of the many museums. There's the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, and the Black History Museum. There are also landmarks and historical homes.


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

Savannah
Richmond

Savannah is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Savannah is an experience not to be missed. Local restaurants highlight southern hospitality as well as the cuisine. You'll find many classics such as crab cakes, shrimp and grits, and fried fish. There are many restaurants in historic buildings in the Historic District, but you'll also find a number of casual eateries in other neighborhoods.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Richmond. The food scene has been growing around town, and there are food halls and local restaurants that serve diverse and interesting dishes. You'll find Indian, Asian, and European restaurants in addition to local classics.

Is Savannah or Richmond Better for Nightlife?

Savannah
Richmond

Richmond 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 Richmond. You'll find diverse bars and clubs around town. Pubs are usually laid back with a relaxed atmosphere. You'll also find live music that includes bluegrass, country, and jazz.

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 Richmond Better for Beaches?

Savannah
Richmond

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

Many people head to Savannah to enjoy the beach. While Savannah doesn't actually have a beach, you can head to nearby Tybee Island for waves and sun. It's about half an hour away and the closest beaches to the city are on the island's north side.

Richmond is not a beach destination.


Is Savannah or Richmond Better for its Old Town?

Savannah
Richmond

Savannah is notable for its historic old town charm. However, Richmond does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Savannah. There's an impressive Historic District that is filled with gardens, historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and Oak-lined streets. There are wonderful hotels and traditional restaurants that offer a beautiful experience.

Richmond does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Savannah or Richmond?

Savannah
Richmond

Savannah is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Savannah. Shopping opportunities include art galleries, trendy clothing boutiques, and larger shopping malls. Visitors can wander down the popular Broughton Street, but there's also a City Market and Starland District.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Richmond. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers around town, but there are also eclectic shopping streets and boutique outlets.

Is Savannah or Richmond Better for Families?

Savannah
Richmond

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Savannah or Richmond.

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.

Richmond is a family-friendly city. The Children's Museum of Richmond offers hands-on exhibits that will keep young ones entertained. Another fun option is the Science Museum of Virginia. The city also has parks and outdoor places to explore as well as playgrounds and kid-friendly restaurants.


Is Savannah or Richmond Better for Couples?

Savannah
Richmond

Savannah is notable for couples. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Savannah is a very popular place to visit for couples. Trees with Spanish Moss as well as a charming Historic District make this a nice destination for a couple's weekend. There are parks where you can enjoy a picnic. There are also nature trails and many great southern restaurants.

Richmond is a nice destination for couples. Kayaking or tubing on the James River is a great activity for couples. There are also museums and many restaurants that are perfect for a date night.

Is Savannah or Richmond Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Savannah
Richmond

Savannah is very good for backpackers. However, Richmond is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Savannah is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a hostel in town, as well as a number of cheaper motels that are a bit outside of the Historic District.

Richmond is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular backpacker destination, and most people breeze through town.

Is Savannah or Richmond Better for Students?

Savannah
Richmond

Savannah and Richmond are both notable 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 Richmond. There are a couple of colleges and universities in town such as Virginia Commonwealth University.


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

Savannah
Richmond

Both Savannah and Richmond offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Savannah. While there are some types of public transit available, the vast majority of visitors have a vehicle, which they use to get around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Richmond. There are buses around town, but the availability and reliability is limited.

Is Savannah or Richmond a more walkable city?

Savannah
Richmond

Savannah is notable for its ease of walking around. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Richmond is somewhat walkable. There are some walkable neighborhoods such as the Fan and Museum District, but most people prefer to get around by car.

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

Should I spend more time in Richmond or Savannah?

How long in Savannah or Richmond?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Savannah or Richmond to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Savannah than Richmond because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Savannah, and 1-2 days is enough time in Richmond.

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

One day in Savannah or Richmond?

The city of Savannah offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The city of Richmond 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 Richmond?

Savannah 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Savannah, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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

Five days in Savannah or Richmond?

Savannah 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.

Richmond 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 Richmond?

Savannah is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

Richmond 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, Richmond 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 Richmond is $161. 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 Richmond in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Savannah $84
    Richmond $101
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Savannah $168
    Richmond $202
Compare Hotels in Savannah and Richmond

Looking for a hotel in Savannah or Richmond? 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 Richmond


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 Richmond Hotel Prices.

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Savannah

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Savannah:

  • Grave Encounters Tour with Guide and Transfers: $32
  • African American History Walking Tour w/ Transfer: $64
  • Savannah to Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) - Departure Private Transfer: $102
  • Private Transfer from SAV to Savannah: $204
  • Private Transfer from SAV to Hilton Head Island, SC : $220
  • Private Transfer from Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Hilton Head Island, SC: $221
  • Private Transfer from Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Savannah : $255
  • Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV): Private Transfer to Savannah: $430

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Richmond

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Richmond:

  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond city - Arrival Private Transfer: $36
  • Richmond City to Richmond Airport (RIC) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $72

Is it cheaper to fly into Savannah or Richmond?

Prices for flights to both Richmond 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
    Richmond $21

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 Richmond

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

  • The Carytown Food Tour in Richmond: $80
  • Church Hill Food Tour in Richmond, VA: $80
  • Church Hill Food Tour: $80
  • Trendy Carytown Food Tour: $80
  • Pizza & Ice Cream Tour: $80
  • Arts District Food Tour in Richmond: $85
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $85
  • Delicious Pizza & Ice Cream Tour of Richmond: $90

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Savannah $17
    Richmond $13
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 Historical District: Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $7.99
  • Savannah’s Historical District: A Self-Guided Audio 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
  • Uncover Savannah's Haunted Secrets: Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Uncover Savannah's Secrets: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $13
  • Savannah Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $13

Tours and Activities in Richmond

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Richmond are as follows:

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Hollywood Cemetery Tour Richmond Lore and Civil War: $24
  • Church Hill Chillers Ghost Tour: $25
  • Richmond Ghosts: Sinister Scares of Shockoe Bottom Tour: $26
  • Phantoms of Franklin Ghost Tour: $30
  • Phantoms of Franklin Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Court End Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Monroe Park Campus Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Church Hill Guided Ghost Tour: $30
  • Downtown & Capitol Square Tour & Scavenger Hunt: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Savannah $34
    Richmond -

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
  • The Savannah Pub Crawler with Captain Stoner Joe: $27
  • Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Bloody Murder Savannah Pub Crawl: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Conjuring Cocktails Pub Crawl: $30
  • Savannah Bar Crawl by the Bridge: $32

Sample the Local Flavors in Richmond

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Richmond:

  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl : $34
  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Drink Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl: $74
  • Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl By Junket: $74
  • Brewery Tour of Richmond, VA: $90


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


Which is Bigger, Savannah or Richmond?

Richmond has a larger population, and is about 45% larger than the population of Savannah. When comparing the sizes of Savannah and Richmond, 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 Richmond?

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 Richmond in the Summer?

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

In July, Savannah is generally around the same temperature as Richmond. Daily temperatures in Savannah average around 82°F (28°C), and Richmond fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Richmond. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Savannah. Savannah usually receives less sunshine than Richmond during summer. Savannah gets 267 hours of sunny skies, while Richmond receives 305 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Richmond. It's quite rainy in Savannah. In July, Savannah usually receives more rain than Richmond. Savannah gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 5 inches (128 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Savannah or Richmond in the Autumn?

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

Savannah is a little warmer than Richmond in the autumn. The daily temperature in Savannah averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Richmond fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

In Richmond, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Savannah. In the autumn, Savannah often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Richmond. Savannah gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Richmond receives 221 hours of full sun.

Savannah usually gets less rain in October than Richmond. Savannah gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Savannah 68°F (20°C) 
    Richmond 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Savannah or Richmond in the Winter?

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

Richmond can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Savannah is much warmer than Richmond. Typically, the winter temperatures in Savannah in January average around 49°F (9°C), and Richmond averages at about 36°F (2°C).

Savannah usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Richmond during winter. Savannah gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Richmond receives 169 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Savannah usually receives less rain than Richmond. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Savannah 49°F (9°C) 
    Richmond 36°F (2°C)

Should I visit Savannah or Richmond in the Spring?

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

In April, Savannah is generally a little warmer than Richmond. Daily temperatures in Savannah average around 66°F (19°C), and Richmond fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Richmond. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Savannah this time of the year. In the spring, Savannah often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Richmond. Savannah gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Richmond receives 265 hours of full sun.

Savannah usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Richmond. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Savannah 66°F (19°C) 
    Richmond 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Richmond and Savannah

Savannah Richmond
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 49°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (83 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm)
Mar 59°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 66°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 67°F (19°C) 3.8 inches (98 mm)
Jun 79°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 78°F (26°C) 5 inches (128 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 77°F (25°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 71°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)