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

Should you visit Savannah or Vail?

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

Should I visit Savannah or Vail? 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 beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the museums, food, and beaches.

Vail

Vail is a charming, picturesque, and scenic ski town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and live music.

Savannah and Vail: 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
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
  • Home to the Vail Ski Resort


Is there more to do in Savannah or Vail?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Vail. Although Savannah and Vail are popular destinations, Vail has more sights and attractions for tourists. Vail is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, music, resorts, hiking, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Savannah attracts visitors for its museums, food, beaches, and historical sights. Vail is more touristy than Savannah and is popular for its world-class skiing, charming mountain town atmosphere, and adventurous outdoor activities. It is also well known for The Vail Ski Resort. Savannah is famous for its maritime past, its southern atmosphere, and its Historic District.

How is Savannah different from Vail?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Savannah or Vail Better for Skiing?

Savannah
Vail

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

If you're an avid snow skiier, Vail should be on your list. This ski town has produced its share of Olympians. Vail is the third largest ski resort in the US and it has 31 lifts and 195 runs. There are five different bowls that offer beautiful views.

Savannah is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Savannah or Vail?

Savannah
Vail

Savannah is a great city for its historical sights. However, Vail 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.

Vail does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Savannah
Vail

Savannah is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Savannah has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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 many up and coming restaurants in the Vail area. The town has a diverse sampling of restaurants that include different ethnic options as well as taverns with comfort food. It's easy to find mountain-friendly restaurants where you can refuel during your ski vacation.

Is Savannah or Vail Better for Nightlife?

Savannah
Vail

Vail is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Savannah is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Vail offers plenty to do in the evening. Happy Hours start early, and then the partying can go late into the night. There are bars, lounges, breweries and live music that keep the atmosphere light and offer entertainment after your long day on the slopes. Do keep in mind that many places close or dramatically reduce their hours during the off-peak fall and spring months.

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 Vail Better for Music?

Savannah
Vail

Vail is a popular place for live music. However, Savannah is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Vail is active and vibrant. You can often find live music at Shakedown Bar, Bridge Street Bar, and the Red Lion.

Savannah is not a live music destination.

Is Savannah or Vail Better for Resorts?

Savannah
Vail

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

Vail is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Designed as a resort town, Vail offers great accommodation. Nice resorts include Four Seasons Resort and Residences, the Ritz Carlton Club, and the Grand Hyatt.

Savannah is not a resort destination.

Is Savannah or Vail Better for Beaches?

Savannah
Vail

Savannah is a popular place for the beache. However, Vail 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.

Vail is not a beach destination.


Is Savannah or Vail Better for its Old Town?

Savannah
Vail

Savannah is a great city for its old town. However, Vail 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.

Vail does not have a historic old town.

Is Savannah or Vail Better for Hiking?

Savannah
Vail

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

Vail is a popular spot for hiking. During the warmer months, this resort town is surrounded by world-class hiking trails. You can enjoy the wildflowers, search for wildlife, or take in the sweeping mountain views. Popular hikes near Vail include Booth Falls, Davos Trail, and Shrine Ridge.

Savannah is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Savannah or Vail?

Savannah
Vail

Both Savannah and Vail are high quality shopping destinations.

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.

Vail is well-known for its shopping. The cobblestone streets are lined with boutiques and ski shops that sell everything from evening dresses to outdoor gear. It's easy to pop into the many shops around downtown Vail and find anything you might need.


Is Savannah or Vail Better for Christmas?

Savannah
Vail

Vail is an amazing ski town to visit for its Christmas activities. However, Savannah does not offer Christmas activities.

Vail is a world class destination during the Christmas season. The town is a winter wonderland during the holidays. Check out the iconic Christmas tree lighting and wander through the fairytale streets.

Savannah does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Savannah or Vail Better for Christmas Markets?

Savannah
Vail

Vail is a well-known place for its Christmas markets. However, Savannah does not offer Christmas markets.

The Christmas markets in Vail offer plenty to see during the holidays. The town's Christmas Market is picturesque, and the perfect place to pick up some unique gifts.

Savannah does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Savannah or Vail Better for Families?

Savannah
Vail

Vail is an amazing ski 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, Vail is a very family-friendly destination. With its world class skiing, rock climbing, ice skating, and ice cream, kids love this ski resort. The resort town has two terrain parks - Golden Peak and Avanti. Avanti is perfect for kids. It has small jumps, wide rails, and kid-friendly amenities. Golden Peak is designed for more advanced athletes. Vail also has nice beginner slopes that are great for kids.

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 Vail Better for Couples?

Savannah
Vail

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

Vail makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy skiing and outdoor adventure will appreciate everything that this ski town has to offer. There are nice restaurants, beautiful gardens, and plenty of romantic activities to choose from.

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 Vail Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Savannah
Vail

Both Savannah and Vail 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.

Vail is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. This ski town isn't completely closed off to budget travelers as there are a couple of hostels around town.

Is Savannah or Vail Better for Students?

Savannah
Vail

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

Vail is not popular with students.


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

Savannah
Vail

Vail is a popular place for its public transit. However, Savannah is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Vail has a few public transit options. There is a free bus service through the area.

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 Vail a more walkable city?

Savannah
Vail

Vail is an amazing ski 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 Vail on foot. The main downtown is pedestrian-only and perfect for popping in shops and restaurants.

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 Vail Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vail or Savannah?

How long in Savannah or Vail?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Vail 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 Vail.


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

One day in Savannah or Vail?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Savannah. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Vail is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing. 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 Vail?

Savannah is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Vail 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 Vail?

You'll find shopping and museums around the charming destination of Savannah. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Vail 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 Vail, 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 Vail?

The scenic city of Savannah offers museums and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Vail 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 Vail has to offer. This ski 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, Vail 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 Vail is $291. 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 Vail in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Savannah $84
    Vail $174
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Savannah $168
    Vail $348
Compare Hotels in Savannah and Vail

Looking for a hotel in Savannah or Vail? 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 Vail


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 Vail Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Savannah $27
    Vail $19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Savannah

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Savannah:

  • Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV): Private Transfer to Savannah: $432
  • Private Transfer from Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Savannah : $257
  • Private Transfer from SAV to Hilton Head Island, SC : $222
  • Private Transfer from SAV to Savannah: $206
  • 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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Vail

Also for Vail, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Eagle County Airport(EGE) to Steamboat - Arrival Private Transfer: $77
  • Eagle County Airport to Breckenridge Keystone: Arrival Transfer: $93
  • Eagle County Airport to Vail/Beaver Creek/Avon-Arrival Transfer: $115
  • Eagle County Airport to Steamboat Springs-Round-Trip Transfer: $121
  • Eagle County Regional (EGE) to Steamboat Springs-Arrival Transfer: $121
  • Private Departure Transfer to Vail Airport EGE: $128
  • Eagle County Airport to Steamboat - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $154
  • Eagle Airport (EGE) to Glenwood Resorts Round-Trip Transfer: $154
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Vail Airport EGE: $156
  • Vail/Beaver Creek/Avon to Denver Airport DEN - Departure Transfer: $219
  • EGE Airport Roundtrip Transfer to Vail, Beaver Creek, and Avon: $230
  • Avon/Vail Valley to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer : $239

Is it cheaper to fly into Savannah or Vail?

Prices for flights to both Vail 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
    Vail $74

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
    Vail $133
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 Bonaventure Cemetery Walking Tour: $30
  • 2-Hour Explore Savannah Bike Tour: $45
  • 2-Hour Savannah Sunset Riverboat Cruise: $54
  • 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
  • Best of Savannah Small Group Tour w/ Wormsloe Historic Site: $139

Tours and Activities in Vail

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

  • Smartphone Driving Tour between Denver & Vail / Breckenridge: $7.99
  • Save the Mountain Escape Room Adventure: $45
  • Stand Up Paddle Board Colorado River Adventure: Guided Half Day : $98
  • Inflatable Kayak Adventure Colorado River: Half Day Guided Tour : $109
  • Bike Tour or Mountain Bike down Vail Mountain: $120
  • Dillon Marina & Shopping Tour: $267

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Savannah $34
    Vail $9.79

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


Which is Bigger, Savannah or Vail?

Savannah has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Vail. When comparing the sizes of Savannah and Vail, 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.