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

Should you visit Savannah or South Lake Tahoe?

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

Should I visit Savannah or South Lake Tahoe? 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's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping.

South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a scenic, breathtaking, and idyllic town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping.

Savannah and South Lake Tahoe: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Savannah or South Lake Tahoe?

Travelers will usually find more to do in South Lake Tahoe. Although Savannah and South Lake Tahoe are popular destinations, South Lake Tahoe has more sights and attractions for tourists. South Lake Tahoe is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Savannah attracts visitors for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, and shopping. South Lake Tahoe is more touristy than Savannah and is known for its casino resorts, ski resorts, and beautiful setting. It is also well known for the Heavenly Gondola. Savannah is famous for its maritime past, its southern atmosphere, and its Historic District.

How is Savannah different from South Lake Tahoe?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between South Lake Tahoe and Savannah. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Savannah or South Lake Tahoe Better for Skiing?

Savannah
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Savannah is not a skiing destination.

South Lake Tahoe is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. There are three ski resorts in the area. Heavenly Mountain Resort is the largest, but if you're looking for something smaller, head to Kirkwood, which is tucked away and less well known. There's also Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort, which is popular with groups and families because it caters to a range of skill levels.

Savannah is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Savannah or South Lake Tahoe?

Savannah
South Lake Tahoe

Savannah is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, South Lake Tahoe is not a good town for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Savannah can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

While most people don't head to South Lake Tahoe specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people spend their time exploring the area's nature, but you can also stop by Tallac Historic Site or the Lake Tahoe Historical Society Museum.

Is the Food Better in Savannah or South Lake Tahoe? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Savannah
South Lake Tahoe

Savannah is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, South Lake Tahoe is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

South Lake Tahoe is becoming an appealing option for foodies. While most resorts have their own restaurants, there are a number of options around town that specialize in "alpine comfort cuisine", which is worth sampling. You'll also find plenty of cafes that serve up a hearty breakfast - the perfect way to start an active day.

Is Savannah or South Lake Tahoe Better for Nightlife?

Savannah
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is an amazing town to visit for nightlife. However, Savannah is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

South Lake Tahoe has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The resort town has plenty of nightclubs, bars, and music venues. There are outdoor options when the weather is warm as well as indoor settings for cooler weather. You'll also find casinos and live shows.

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 South Lake Tahoe Better for Resorts?

Savannah
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Savannah is not a resort destination.

South Lake Tahoe is known as a popular and fun resort destination. It's a resort town, so there are plenty of options to choose from, many with pools, spas, or casinos.

Savannah is not a resort destination.

Is Savannah or South Lake Tahoe Better for Beaches?

Savannah
South Lake Tahoe

Savannah is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, South Lake Tahoe is not a beach destination.

Savannah has a beach worth visiting. 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.

South Lake Tahoe is not a beach destination.

Is Savannah or South Lake Tahoe Better for its Old Town?

Savannah
South Lake Tahoe

Savannah is a well-known place for its old town. However, South Lake Tahoe does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Savannah to see the historical old town. 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.

South Lake Tahoe does not have a historic old town.


Is Savannah or South Lake Tahoe Better for Hiking?

Savannah
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is an amazing town to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Savannah is not a hiking destination.

People visit South Lake Tahoe specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are miles of beautiful hikes in the area that follow the lake's shore or explore the diverse terrain. Skyline Trail Hike is a favorite. It is accessible by lift and offers spectacular views. For a relaxing stroll check out Fallen Leaf Lake Hike.

Savannah is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Savannah or South Lake Tahoe?

Savannah
South Lake Tahoe

Savannah is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, South Lake Tahoe is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

South Lake Tahoe has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most of the shopping involves retailers selling ski gear or outdoor equipment. There are also clothing shops, gift stores, and some art galleries.

Is Savannah or South Lake Tahoe Better for Families?

Savannah
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is an amazing town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, South Lake Tahoe is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will love the outdoor adventures that the area is filled with. There are gondolas, lakefront beaches, adventure parks, and tubing. There are also miles of hiking trails and a beautiful setting that even the young ones will appreciate.

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 South Lake Tahoe Better for Couples?

Savannah
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is an amazing town to visit for romance. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

South Lake Tahoe makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's beautiful setting and wide variety of adventurous activities make this the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. The lake has hidden coves and nearby hiking trails. There are also hot springs, gondolas, and carriage rides. You can go hiking when the weather is warm or skiing when the weather is cold.

Savannah makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Is Savannah or South Lake Tahoe Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Savannah
South Lake Tahoe

Both Savannah and South Lake Tahoe are nice 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.

South Lake Tahoe is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels in the area and the skiing and hiking attracts the backpacker crowd.

Is Savannah or South Lake Tahoe Better for Students?

Savannah
South Lake Tahoe

Savannah is a nice place to visit for students. However, South Lake Tahoe is not popular with students.

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.

South Lake Tahoe is not popular with students.


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

Savannah
South Lake Tahoe

Both Savannah and South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe. While there are some shuttles and buses, if you really want to explore the area, you'll need your own car.

Is Savannah or South Lake Tahoe a more walkable city?

Savannah
South Lake Tahoe

Savannah and South Lake Tahoe both are very good when exploring on foot.

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

South Lake Tahoe is a very walkable city. Once you get to town, the area is very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Savannah Worth Visiting? and Is South Lake Tahoe Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in South Lake Tahoe or Savannah?

How long in Savannah or South Lake Tahoe?

In either Savannah or South Lake Tahoe, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in South Lake Tahoe than Savannah because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Savannah, and 3-5 days is enough time in South Lake Tahoe.

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

Couples should spend more time in South Lake Tahoe than Savannah. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in South Lake Tahoe that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Savannah than South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe? Ideal Length of Stay
    Savannah 1-3 
    South Lake Tahoe 3-5

One day in Savannah or South Lake Tahoe?

You'll find museums and food around the scenic destination of Savannah. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The beautiful town of South Lake Tahoe offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 South Lake Tahoe?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful city of Savannah. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

South Lake Tahoe is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 South Lake Tahoe?

Savannah is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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

Savannah is a great place to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

South Lake Tahoe is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe is $118. 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 South Lake Tahoe in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Savannah $84
    South Lake Tahoe $54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Savannah $168
    South Lake Tahoe $108
Compare Hotels in Savannah and South Lake Tahoe

Looking for a hotel in Savannah or South Lake Tahoe? 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 South Lake Tahoe


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 South Lake Tahoe Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Savannah $27
    South Lake Tahoe $24

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: $103
  • Private Transfer from SAV to Savannah: $205
  • Private Transfer from Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Hilton Head Island, SC: $222
  • Private Transfer from SAV to Hilton Head Island, SC : $222
  • Private Transfer from Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Savannah : $257
  • Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV): Private Transfer to Savannah: $432

Is it cheaper to fly into Savannah or South Lake Tahoe?

Prices for flights to both South Lake Tahoe 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
    South Lake Tahoe $38

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Savannah $17
    South Lake Tahoe $56
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
  • 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
  • Savannah Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $13

Tours and Activities in South Lake Tahoe

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for South Lake Tahoe are as follows:

  • Driving Lake Tahoe: A Self-Guided Audio Tour From Tahoe City to Incline Village: $9.99
  • Self-Guided Driving Tour from Lake Tahoe to Virginia City: $12
  • Driving Lake Tahoe: A Self-Guided Tour from South Lake Tahoe to Tahoe City: $12
  • Driving Lake Tahoe: A Self-Guided Tour From Incline Village to South Lake Tahoe: $12
  • Lake Tahoe: Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Tallac Historic Site Pope House Tour: $16
  • Ultimate Lake Tahoe Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Tallac Historic Site Grand Estates Tour: $20
  • Lake Tahoe: Self-Guided Driving Tour: $25
  • Guided Tour of Historic Virginia City and Carson City from South Lake Tahoe: $70
  • Introductory Snowshoe Shared Experience: $75
  • Sunset Kayak Experience in Lake Tahoe: $75

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Savannah $34
    South Lake Tahoe $34

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 Dive Bar Crawl in Historic Savannah: $20
  • Captain Stoner's Haunted Dive Bar Crawl: $20
  • Late Night Happy Hour Haunted Pub Crawl and Legendary Bar Tour: $22
  • Captain Stoner's Late Night Happy Hour Pub Crawl in Savannah: $22
  • Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl-Walking Tour Historic District: $25
  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Bloody Murder Savannah Pub Crawl: $30
  • Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Conjuring Cocktails Pub Crawl: $30
  • Savannah Bar Crawl by the Bridge: $32

Sample the Local Flavors in South Lake Tahoe

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

  • Lake Tahoe: Emerald Bay Sunset Wine Tasting Yacht Cruise: $150


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Savannah and South Lake Tahoe, we can see that Savannah is more expensive. And not only is South Lake Tahoe much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to South Lake Tahoe would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in South Lake Tahoe 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 Savannah would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Savannah than you might in South Lake Tahoe.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Savannah Expensive? and Is South Lake Tahoe Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Savannah or South Lake Tahoe?

Savannah has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of South Lake Tahoe. When comparing the sizes of Savannah and South Lake Tahoe, 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.