A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Savannah vs. Winston-Salem for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Savannah or Winston-Salem?

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

Should I visit Savannah or Winston-Salem? 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.

Winston-Salem

Winston-Salem is a under-rated, welcoming, and friendly city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Savannah and Winston-Salem: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Savannah or Winston-Salem?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Savannah than Winston-Salem. While Winston-Salem is larger than Savannah, Savannah has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Savannah is better known for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Winston-Salem is more popular for its nightlife. Savannah is more touristy than Winston-Salem and is known for its maritime past, its southern atmosphere, and its Historic District. Also, Savannah is famous for Forsyth Park. Winston-Salem is well known for it's southern character and quaint college campuses.

How is Savannah different from Winston-Salem?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Winston-Salem 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 Winston-Salem?

Savannah
Winston-Salem

Savannah is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Winston-Salem is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Winston-Salem is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Old Salem has a nice concentration of museums and gardens. Outside of the old town you'll find several art museums like the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts and the Reynolda House Museum of American Art.


Is the Food Better in Savannah or Winston-Salem? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Savannah
Winston-Salem

Savannah is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Winston-Salem 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 Winston-Salem. North Carolina barbecue is popular around town. The city is also the birthplace of Krispy Kreme donuts and during the holiday season you should sample the local Moravian Cookies.

Is Savannah or Winston-Salem Better for Nightlife?

Savannah
Winston-Salem

Winston-Salem 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 Winston-Salem. Local breweries are popping up around town. You'll also find active nightlife venues near the colleges and universities.

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 Winston-Salem Better for Beaches?

Savannah
Winston-Salem

Savannah is a popular place for the beach. However, Winston-Salem 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.

Winston-Salem is not a beach destination.


Is Savannah or Winston-Salem Better for its Old Town?

Savannah
Winston-Salem

Savannah is notable for its historic old town charm. Also, Winston-Salem is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its 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.

Winston-Salem is a good destination for visiting its old town. Nearby Old Salem is filled with historic museums, gardens, and restaurants. A ticket is required for most of the venues, but the atmosphere and architecture are charming.

Is the Shopping Better in Savannah or Winston-Salem?

Savannah
Winston-Salem

Savannah is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Winston-Salem 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 Winston-Salem. You'll find a mix of larger shopping malls, retail outlets, and shopping centers around town.

Is Savannah or Winston-Salem Better for Families?

Savannah
Winston-Salem

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Savannah or Winston-Salem.

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.

Winston-Salem is a family-friendly city. There are interactive museums like the Kaleideum science museums. There are also outdoor parks and playgrounds, kid-friendly restaurants, and a children's theater.


Is Savannah or Winston-Salem Better for Couples?

Savannah
Winston-Salem

Savannah is notable for couples. However, Winston-Salem is a mediocre city 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.

Winston-Salem is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are restaurants and movie theaters that make for a nice date night. There are also parks and walks that will get you outdoors.

Is Savannah or Winston-Salem Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Savannah
Winston-Salem

Savannah is a popular place for backpackers. However, Winston-Salem is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Winston-Salem is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It's not on the itinerary for most backpackers.

Is Savannah or Winston-Salem Better for Students?

Savannah
Winston-Salem

Savannah and Winston-Salem 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 Winston-Salem. Wake Forest University as well as colleges such as Salem College give parts of the city a collegiate vibe.


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

Savannah
Winston-Salem

Both Savannah and Winston-Salem 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 Winston-Salem. There are bus routes, but they are limited in their frequency and convenience, making a car essential for most visitors.

Is Savannah or Winston-Salem a more walkable city?

Savannah
Winston-Salem

Savannah is notable for its ease of walking around. However, Winston-Salem is a mediocre city 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.

Winston-Salem is generally not a very walkable city. The downtown area is the most pedestrian-friendly part of town, but most of the city requires a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Savannah Worth Visiting? and Is Winston-Salem Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Winston-Salem or Savannah?

How long in Savannah or Winston-Salem?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Savannah or Winston-Salem to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Savannah than Winston-Salem 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 Winston-Salem.

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

One day in Savannah or Winston-Salem?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the scenic destination of Savannah. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

The city of Winston-Salem 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 Winston-Salem?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Savannah. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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

Five days in Savannah or Winston-Salem?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Savannah. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

Winston-Salem 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 Winston-Salem?

You'll find museums and food around the city of Savannah. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Winston-Salem 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, Winston-Salem 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 Winston-Salem is $150. 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 Winston-Salem in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Savannah $84
    Winston-Salem $91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Savannah $168
    Winston-Salem $182
Compare Hotels in Savannah and Winston-Salem

Looking for a hotel in Savannah or Winston-Salem? 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 Winston-Salem


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 Winston-Salem Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Savannah $27
    Winston-Salem $23

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: $220
  • Private Transfer from Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Savannah : $255
  • Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV): Private Transfer to Savannah: $430

Is it cheaper to fly into Savannah or Winston-Salem?

Prices for flights to both Winston-Salem 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
    Winston-Salem $42

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
    Winston-Salem $20
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’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
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Savannah by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Skip the Line: General Admission Webb Military Museum Ticket: $10
  • 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
  • Self-Guided Ghost Walking Audio Tour: $14

Tours and Activities in Winston-Salem

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Winston-Salem are as follows:

  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Winston-Salem by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Carolina History & Haunts Winston-Salem Historical Ghost Tour: $26

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Savannah $34
    Winston-Salem $24

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
  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Bloody Murder Savannah Pub Crawl: $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 Winston-Salem, we can see that Savannah 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 Winston-Salem Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Savannah or Winston-Salem?

Winston-Salem has a larger population, and is about 47% larger than the population of Savannah. When comparing the sizes of Savannah and Winston-Salem, 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 Winston-Salem?

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 Winston-Salem in the Summer?

Both Winston-Salem and Savannah are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Savannah because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Winston-Salem this time of year.

In July, Savannah is generally around the same temperature as Winston-Salem. Daily temperatures in Savannah average around 82°F (28°C), and Winston-Salem fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

It's quite sunny in Winston-Salem. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Savannah. Savannah usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Winston-Salem during summer. Savannah gets 267 hours of sunny skies, while Winston-Salem receives 273 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Winston-Salem. It's quite rainy in Savannah. In July, Savannah usually receives more rain than Winston-Salem. Savannah gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Winston-Salem receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Savannah 82°F (28°C) 
    Winston-Salem 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Savannah or Winston-Salem in the Autumn?

Both Winston-Salem and Savannah during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Savannah this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Winston-Salem for the shopping scene.

Savannah is a little warmer than Winston-Salem in the autumn. The daily temperature in Savannah averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Winston-Salem fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In Winston-Salem, 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 Winston-Salem. Savannah gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Winston-Salem receives 212 hours of full sun.

Savannah usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Winston-Salem. Savannah gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Winston-Salem receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Savannah 68°F (20°C) 
    Winston-Salem 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Savannah or Winston-Salem in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Savannah and Winston-Salem. Many travelers come to Savannah for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Winston-Salem in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Winston-Salem can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Savannah is much warmer than Winston-Salem. Typically, the winter temperatures in Savannah in January average around 49°F (9°C), and Winston-Salem averages at about 40°F (4°C).

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

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Savannah 49°F (9°C) 
    Winston-Salem 40°F (4°C)

Should I visit Savannah or Winston-Salem in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Savannah as well as Winston-Salem. Many visitors come to Savannah in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Savannah is generally a little warmer than Winston-Salem. Daily temperatures in Savannah average around 66°F (19°C), and Winston-Salem fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Winston-Salem. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Savannah this time of the year. In the spring, Savannah often gets more sunshine than Winston-Salem. Savannah gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Winston-Salem receives 248 hours of full sun.

Savannah usually gets less rain in April than Winston-Salem. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Winston-Salem receives 3.1 inches (80 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Savannah 66°F (19°C) 
    Winston-Salem 61°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for Winston-Salem and Savannah

Savannah Winston-Salem
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 49°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 40°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Mar 59°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Apr 66°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 61°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 69°F (21°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Jun 79°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 81°F (27°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 80°F (26°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 53°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)