Where to Stay in Savannah Georgia: Best Areas & Hotels for Every Traveler

Updated December 12, 2025

Trying to pick where to stay in Savannah? It’s no wonder—it’s a city full of character, from brick-lined riverfronts to leafy squares and even breezy beach escapes. You want somewhere with charm and comfort—maybe close to the best sights, but quiet enough for a good night’s sleep. Savannah’s top areas range from the walkable Historic District to the easygoing sands of Tybee Island.

Let’s make it simple. Here’s a quick breakdown of each neighborhood, who it’s best for, and hand-picked places to stay, no matter your budget. I’ve compared hotels, B&Bs, and inns so you can skip the rabbit hole and find your spot in minutes.

Key Takeaways

• Savannah’s neighborhoods run from historic streets to beachside chill
• Each area suits different travelers and price points
• Clear comparisons help you pick your base fast

Savannah Neighborhoods Overview

Savannah’s got a compact, walkable core—historic charm meets modern convenience. The city stretches from cobbled riverfronts to quiet blocks under old oaks, so you’ve got options, whether you want the buzz or a little more space.

How Savannah is Laid Out

Savannah divides into several small but distinct districts. The Historic District is the heart—just a square mile packed with 18th- and 19th-century homes, brick streets, and shady public squares. You can walk nearly everywhere.

South of that is the Victorian District, with late-1800s houses, student apartments, and indie cafes. Keep going and you’ll land in the Starland District—a younger, artsy area full of murals, coffee spots, and music venues.

Head further out and you’ll reach Midtown, where you’ll find modern hotels and chain stores. Pooler and Tybee Island are for drivers or beach lovers.

Tybee’s a quick twenty-minute drive and is Savannah’s go-to for sand and surf. If you’re renting a car, check KAYAK for flight and car deals before you book.

Types of Places to Stay in Savannah

Savannah’s got it all. Boutique hotels rule the Historic District—think renovated mansions with courtyards and big porches. They’re atmospheric, but prices jump during peak months.

Want something cozier? Bed-and-breakfasts line Jones Street and the southern squares, serving up breakfast in dining rooms that smell like pecan coffee. For more privacy (and maybe a kitchen), vacation rentals pop up across the Victorian and Starland Districts—just check for owner-occupied listings to dodge party noise.

If you’re watching your wallet, mid-range chains in Midtown or Pooler are close to highways and the airport. These are smart picks if you’re flying into Savannah/Hilton Head International—especially if you snag cheap flight tickets.

Choosing the Best Area for Your Trip

First time here? The Historic District is your best bet. Walk to River Street, Forsyth Park, and dozens of restaurants—no need to move your car. It’s the most Savannah-feeling part of town, and sightseeing’s a breeze.

If you want quieter nights or lower rates, the Victorian and Starland Districts have a local, residential vibe but are still close to the action. Families or drivers might like Midtown for bigger rooms and grocery stores.

Tybee Island is for folks who want a mix of beach days and city nights. Pooler works for early flights or quick interstate access. Compare rates fast on Booking or Expedia.

Savannah Historic District: The Heart of the City

The Historic District is pure Savannah—cobblestone streets, tree-lined squares, and centuries-old architecture. Here, restored mansions, boutique hotels, and welcoming inns sit among museums, restaurants, and landmarks—all within easy walking distance.

Why Stay in the Historic District

If you love walking and want to be close to everything, stay here. The district stretches from River Street to Forsyth Park, and every block offers a slice of history—preserved homes, ornate churches, live oaks dripping with Spanish moss.

It’s the city’s most walkable, and you’ll find cafés, galleries, and music just outside your door. If you want a strong local vibe and the freedom to forget your car, this is your spot. Nights feel safe, with plenty of lighting and people out enjoying the squares.

Honestly, the Historic District just is Savannah. The horse carriages, church bells, and magnolia scent set the mood for your whole trip.

Best Hotels in the Historic District

You’ve got solid choices here:

• Perry Lane Hotel: Modern, with a rooftop pool and great skyline views
• Drayton Hotel: Close to the river, historic charm, and nightlife nearby
• Hamilton-Turner Inn: Antique décor, cooked-to-order breakfasts, romantic vibe
• Kehoe House: 1890 mansion, afternoon wine and desserts, classic Savannah
• Eliza Thompson House: Quiet courtyard, Southern B&B feel, near Forsyth Park
• McMillan Inn: Victorian style, homey warmth
• Hotel Bardo Savannah: Upscale, design-forward, close to the park

Quick reference:

Hotel/Inn	Notable Feature	Location Benefit
Perry Lane Hotel	Rooftop bar & pool	Near shopping & art galleries
Kehoe House	Historic mansion feel	Close to River Street
Hamilton-Turner Inn	Romantic, high-end	Near Lafayette Square
Eliza Thompson House	Relaxed B&B vibe	Steps from Forsyth Park
The Drayton Hotel	Sleek, central	Walkable to all main sites

Must-See Attractions and Experiences

Start at Forsyth Park—the fountain is iconic, and mornings are peaceful before tours pick up. Walk north to Chippewa Square and you’ll spot the famous movie bench.

The 22 historic squares each have their own feel—some are quiet and shaded, others lively with markets or food trucks. Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist is worth a look for its stunning interior.

For art, the Telfair Museums (especially the Jepson Center) blend modern and historic. End your evening on River Street—dinner or drinks with a view of the water, street musicians, pralines, and container ships sliding by. Simple, but it sticks with you.

See Related: Top Places to Visit in the World: Unforgettable Destinations for Your Bucket List

Riverfront & Plant Riverside District: Lively Waterfront Stays

If you want water views, easy dining, and nightlife, staying along Savannah’s riverfront is a smart move. Here, old warehouses meet new hotels and art spaces, so it’s lively but not overwhelming.

Staying on East Bay and River Street

East Bay and River Street run side by side—cobblestones, brick buildings, and the river always in sight. Grab a seat outside a café and watch ships pass, or step straight onto the riverwalk. It’s a mix of old Savannah and new energy.

Hotels to know:

Hotel	Style	Key Feature
River Street Inn	Historic	Exposed brick, river views
East Bay Inn	Boutique	19th-century décor, pet-friendly
The Alida	Modern	Rooftop bar, pool deck

At night, you’ll find street performers, pop-up shops, and a relaxed buzz. Music drifts up from the riverwalk, and the scent of fried shrimp lingers in the air.

Top Waterfront Hotels

The Plant Riverside District is a newer addition—restored from an old power plant, now home to the JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District. Expect big murals, fossil displays, and plenty of on-site dining. It’s more than a hotel—it’s almost its own mini neighborhood.

Nearby, the Bohemian Hotel Savannah Riverfront is artsy, with local art and a rooftop lounge overlooking the bridges. It’s upscale, but not stuffy. You can grab a drink in flip-flops—nobody cares.

For something smaller, River Street Inn and East Bay Inn have a personal touch—staff actually remember your name. All these spots offer water views and easy access to the city’s best sights.

Dining and Nightlife on the River

The riverfront’s food scene is wide—old-school seafood, modern wine bars, you name it. In Plant Riverside District, you’ll find everything from steakhouses to coffee counters. It’s easy to spend a morning here, then stick around for live music at night.

River Street keeps things laid-back. Grab a drink-to-go and wander, or duck into breweries and dive bars that stay lively late. Electric Moon Rooftop Bar (Plant Riverside) and Peregrin (The Alida) both deliver sunset views.

Honestly, just spend an evening walking the waterfront. No plan needed—there’s enough going on, but it never feels too crowded. River breeze, good food, and music within earshot.

Distinctive Boutique & Historic Inns

Savannah’s hotels blend deep history with a relaxed, modern vibe. You’ll see restored mansions, converted warehouses, and personal inns that feel like a real part of the city—each one giving you a taste of Savannah beyond the main streets.

Historic Bed & Breakfasts

If you’re drawn to old homes with creaky floors and stories layered in the walls, Savannah’s got you covered. Kehoe House stands in a late 19th‑century mansion—gleaming woodwork, iron balconies, and a sense of occasion that’s hard to fake. Staff call you by name, and it’s not just for show. Breakfasts are served at your table, not from a buffet, which makes mornings feel slow and deliberate.

Not far from Forsyth Park, the Eliza Thompson House wears its age openly. The courtyard’s fountain and the lived-in antiques set a tone that’s more like visiting a friend’s home than staying in a hotel. Coffee in the garden just somehow tastes better here, especially when you’re sharing it with fellow guests.

The Hamilton‑Turner Inn—you might recognize it from “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil”—looks grand and feels it, but it’s surprisingly relaxed. Evening wine in the parlor comes standard, no upcharge or fuss.

Charming Boutique Hotels

Savannah’s boutique hotels don’t skimp on personality or design. McMillan Inn works well for travelers who appreciate vintage décor but still want Wi‑Fi and a pool. Rooms nod to the past without feeling like you’re in a museum. You can actually unwind here—nothing’s too precious.

If art and architecture catch your eye, The Perry Lane Hotel blends a stylish rooftop bar with quiet rooms that overlook the city’s squares. The rooftop pool isn’t massive, but the view across Savannah’s rooftops will make you want to linger.

The Drayton Hotel near River Street brings a more modern energy—think buzzy, walkable, and just a little glamorous. Its rooftop restaurant lets you watch ships drift along the Savannah River, drink in hand. It’s polished, but not stiff.

Unique Places to Stay Downtown

Downtown’s smaller inns and converted buildings put you inside Savannah’s history. Olde Harbour Inn, built in 1812, faces the river. Inside, exposed brick and original beams remind you this was once a warehouse. Suites have kitchens, but the real highlight is the evening wine and snacks—always a welcome touch.

For something quieter, Catherine Ward House Inn offers Victorian rooms in a peaceful residential spot, just steps from Forsyth Park. Perfect for early morning strolls before the city wakes up.

If you want both atmosphere and location, Marshall House sits right on Broughton Street. It opened in 1851 and still feels authentic. Hallways lined with old letters and photos tell the building’s story. You’re not just renting a bed—you’re part of Savannah’s timeline for a night.

See Related: The Best Vacations with Minimal Walking

Tybee Island: Beachside Retreats near Savannah

A short drive east of downtown, Tybee Island is Savannah’s easy coastal getaway. The ocean’s close, the air feels lighter, and the pace drops. You’ll find a mix of peaceful rentals, small inns, and beachside hotels that keep things laid-back but still convenient to the city.

Why Choose Tybee Island

Tybee’s rhythm is hard to find elsewhere on the Georgia coast. It’s close enough to Savannah for a quick trip but far enough to feel like a real change of scenery. The drive takes about 25 minutes, and suddenly, salt air drifts through your window.

The beach stretches for miles—soft sand, warm water, and plenty of space most of the year. History buffs will find more to see at Fort Pulaski or the Tybee Light Station. Personally, biking around the island is the easiest way to uncover quiet corners.

Locals often head to Back River Beach for sunsets, where the waves mellow out. If you’re craving seafood that’s actually fresh, the little spots along Butler Avenue tend to deliver.

Popular Tybee Island Stays

Lodging here covers the full range. Hotel Tybee, open for over a century, sits right on the main beach and has balconies facing the water. If you like being at the center of things, it’s a solid pick.

For a more relaxed stay, Tybee Beach Cottages and vacation homes on the north side have kitchens and porches made for slow mornings. Larger beach houses are usually mid-range and work well for families.

Prefer fewer people? A handful of bed and breakfasts near the back river offer quieter views and personal service. And for budget travelers, motels near South Beach and a small campground give you options if you don’t mind keeping things simple.

Here’s a quick cheat sheet for Tybee stays:

Type	Example	Vibe	Best For
Beachfront Hotel	Hotel Tybee	Classic & Convenient	Couples, short stays
Cottage Rental	Tybee Beach Cottages	Relaxed & Private	Families, longer visits
B&B/Inn	DeSoto Beach Bed & Breakfast	Quiet & Charming	Romantic getaways
Campground	River’s End Campground	Simple & Outdoorsy	Budget travelers

No matter where you land, Tybee keeps things low-key—you walk, nap, eat shrimp, and suddenly, the day’s gone.

Budget-Friendly and Offbeat Options

Savannah isn’t all luxury riverfront hotels and historic inns. You can find comfortable, affordable spots that show a more local side, away from the tourist crowds. Neighborhood stays make it easy to reach shops, cafes, and historic sites at a more relaxed pace.

Midtown & Pooler: Value and Local Flavor

Midtown and Pooler are smart choices if you want value without straying far from downtown. Midtown has options like Best Western Central Inn and Hampton Inn & Suites Savannah/Midtown—think free breakfast, pools, and easy access to shopping and restaurants. Around Abercorn Street, parking’s usually a breeze, and you can grab barbecue or seafood without fighting for a table.

Pooler sits about 15 minutes from the Historic District and is close to the airport. Wingate by Wyndham Savannah/Pooler and Homewood Suites by Hilton work well for early flights or late-night arrivals. You’ll find familiar chains, local diners, and even a couple of breweries tucked among the warehouses.

If you’re checking out early and want to squeeze in some last-minute exploring, stash your bags at a luggage storage spot downtown and wander River Street or grab a final coffee before heading out.

Alternative Accommodation Choices

Some of Savannah’s best stays aren’t traditional hotels. Short-term rental apartments in the Historic District offer more space and a kitchen for easy meals. I once stayed in a little flat off Jones Street—old bricks, uneven floors, but the morning light through the shutters made up for every quirk.

If you’re after something different, look for converted carriage houses or guest rooms above shops in the city center. These offbeat options let you live like a local for a bit, walking everywhere. Budget hostels and updated motels with a dash of style often beat overpriced chains for quick trips.

If you’re flexible, boutique hotels like Andaz Savannah sometimes drop rates midweek, so you get local art, a walkable location, and a vibe you won’t find at big chains.

See Related: Best Winter Destinations in the US: Snowy Escapes You Can’t Miss

Frequently Asked Questions

Savannah blends historic charm, riverfront energy, and laid-back southern comfort. You’ll find elegant inns for romantic escapes, walkable neighborhoods with history at every turn, and hotels ranging from boutique gems to budget stays that still feel special.

Book Your Dream Experience

More Travel Guides