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

Should you visit Savannah or Sun Valley?

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

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

Savannah

Savannah is a charming, scenic, and historic city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food.

Sun Valley

Sun Valley is a adventurous, outdoorsy, and active town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping.

Savannah and Sun Valley: 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
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Savannah or Sun Valley?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sun Valley. Although Savannah and Sun Valley are both popular with visitors, Sun Valley has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Sun Valley is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Savannah is known for its museums, beaches, historical sights, and shopping. Sun Valley is more touristy than Savannah and is known for its ski resorts as well as being the home of Ernest Hemingway. It is also home to Sawtooth National Recreation Area. Savannah is popular for its maritime past, its southern atmosphere, and its Historic District.

How is Savannah different from Sun Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Savannah or Sun Valley Better for Skiing?

Savannah
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is an amazing town to visit for snow skiing. However, Savannah is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Sun Valley should be on your list. There are plenty of slopes that are accessible by lift as well as backcountry terrain for those who are more adventurous. The ski areas include Bald Mountain, which is next to Ketchum, and Dollar Mountain, by Sun Valley. Bald Mountain is best for advanced skiers and Dollar Mountain has options for beginners and intermediates.

Savannah is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Savannah or Sun Valley?

Savannah
Sun Valley

Savannah is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Sun Valley is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Savannah. 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 Sun Valley specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Museums in the area include the Sun Valley Museum of Art and the Wood River Museum of History and Culture.

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

Savannah
Sun Valley

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Savannah and Sun Valley can be difficult as they are each superb in their own way.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Savannah makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Sun Valley has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Many restaurants pride themselves in using local, organic, and sustainable ingredients. You'll find everything from cafes and bakeries to sushi, pizza, and Mediterranean.

Is Savannah or Sun Valley Better for Nightlife?

Savannah
Sun Valley

Sun Valley 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 Sun Valley. It's a low key town with relaxing bars and breweries where you can enjoy a cold drink after a day on the slopes. It's not a party town that's high energy, but there are plenty of places where you can hang out in a mellow setting.

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 Sun Valley Better for Resorts?

Savannah
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Savannah is not a resort destination.

Sun Valley is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The most popular place to stay is Sun Valley Lodge, but there are also other small lodges and hotels in the area.

Savannah is not a resort destination.

Is Savannah or Sun Valley Better for Beaches?

Savannah
Sun Valley

Savannah is a good destination for its beaches. However, Sun Valley is not a beach destination.

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

Sun Valley is not a beach destination.

Is Savannah or Sun Valley Better for its Old Town?

Savannah
Sun Valley

Savannah is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Sun Valley does not have a historic old town.

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

Sun Valley does not have a historic old town.


Is Savannah or Sun Valley Better for Hiking?

Savannah
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Savannah is not a hiking destination.

Sun Valley is a popular spot for hiking. During the warmer months you'll enjoy miles of hiking trails in the area that take you by fields of wildflowers and to scenic mountain overlooks. White Cloud Trails is a relatively easy 4 mile trail that many visitors enjoy. Baker Lake and Taylor Canyon are also nice options.

Savannah is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Savannah or Sun Valley?

Savannah
Sun Valley

Savannah is a great destination for shopping. Also, Sun Valley is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Savannah is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Sun Valley. While most visitors spend their time adventuring outdoors, there are also plenty of shopping options in the area. Whether you need to pick up hiking or ski gear, or you want to browse some local boutiques, you'll find shops that meet your need.

Is Savannah or Sun Valley Better for Families?

Savannah
Sun Valley

Sun Valley 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, Sun Valley is a very family-friendly destination. During the winter months there's skiing, ice skating, and other winter activities. During the warmer months families will enjoy riding the Roundhouse Express Gondola, hiking through the mountains, or horseback riding.

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 Sun Valley Better for Couples?

Savannah
Sun Valley

Sun Valley 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.

Sun Valley makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy winter sports and outdoor activities will love a romantic getaway to the area. There's also a charming downtown area that has great restaurants. In the surrounding countryside there's plenty of spectacular hikes that couples will enjoy as well.

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 Sun Valley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Savannah
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Sun Valley. There are a couple of hostels in the area and plenty of activities that appeal to the backpacker crowd.

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.

Is Savannah or Sun Valley Better for Students?

Savannah
Sun Valley

Savannah is a good destination for students. However, Sun Valley is not popular with students.

Savannah is popular with students. There are a couple of colleges in town including the Savannah College of Art and Design.

Sun Valley is not popular with students.


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

Savannah
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Savannah is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Sun Valley. There are free shuttle buses that run through Wood River Valley including connections between the Village and Dollar and Bald Mountains. It's also connected to Ketchum and Elkhorn Springs.

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.

Is Savannah or Sun Valley a more walkable city?

Savannah
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is an amazing town to visit for its walkability. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Sun Valley on foot. It's easy to walk to almost anything you need if you stay at a conveniently located hotel.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Sun Valley or Savannah?

How long in Savannah or Sun Valley?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sun Valley than Savannah 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 Sun Valley.


  • How many days in Savannah or Sun Valley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Savannah 1-3 
    Sun Valley 3-7

One day in Savannah or Sun Valley?

With museums and food around the beautiful city of Savannah, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Savannah, one day is sufficent for most.

The beautiful town of Sun Valley 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 Sun Valley?

With food and shopping around the destination of Savannah, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Sun Valley 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 Sun Valley?

Savannah, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Sun Valley is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that skiing is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sun Valley, 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 Sun Valley?

Savannah is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Sun Valley is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that skiing is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sun Valley has to offer. 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, Sun Valley 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 Sun Valley is $184. 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 Sun Valley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Savannah $84
    Sun Valley $95
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Savannah $168
    Sun Valley $190
Compare Hotels in Savannah and Sun Valley

Looking for a hotel in Savannah or Sun Valley? 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 Sun Valley


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 Sun Valley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Savannah $27
    Sun Valley $61

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Savannah

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Savannah:

  • Private Transfer from SAV to Hilton Head Island, SC : $222
  • Private Transfer from SAV to Savannah: $206
  • Private Transfer from Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Savannah : $257
  • Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV): Private Transfer to Savannah: $432
  • Savannah to Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) - Departure Private Transfer: $103
  • African American History Walking Tour w/ Transfer: $64
  • Grave Encounters Tour with Guide and Transfers: $32

Is it cheaper to fly into Savannah or Sun Valley?

Prices for flights to both Sun Valley 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
    Sun Valley $48

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
    Sun Valley $42
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
  • Savannah’s Historical District: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Savannah Historical District: Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $7.99
  • Self Guided Audio Ghost Tour in Savannah in 6 Languages: $9.00
  • Johnson Square to Independent Presbyterian: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Savannah: $9.99
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Savannah by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Uncover Savannah's Secrets: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Uncover Savannah's Haunted Secrets: 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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Savannah $34
    Sun Valley $49

Sample the Local Flavors in Savannah

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Savannah:

  • Epic Savannah Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • Captain Stoner's Haunted Dive Bar Crawl: $20
  • Captain Stoner Joe's Haunted Dive Bar Crawl in Historic Savannah: $20
  • Captain Stoner's Late Night Happy Hour Pub Crawl in Savannah: $22
  • 10 to Midnight Happy Hour and Haunted Pub Crawl w/ the Captain: $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
  • Spooky Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl: $33


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


Which is Bigger, Savannah or Sun Valley?

Savannah has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Sun Valley. When comparing the sizes of Savannah and Sun Valley, 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.