The Perfect 2-Day Savannah Itinerary
Two days in Savannah is enough to experience the best of the city — the squares, Forsyth Park, Bonaventure Cemetery, River Street, and the finest restaurants. Here is the plan.
The Perfect 2-Day Savannah Itinerary
Two days in Savannah is enough to fall in love with the city. It is not enough to see everything — but with the right plan, you can experience the best of the Historic District, eat at the restaurants worth eating at, and leave with a genuine sense of what makes Savannah one of the most compelling cities in America.
This itinerary is designed for first-time visitors arriving on a Friday evening and departing Sunday afternoon. It covers the essential experiences without feeling rushed.
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Step One: Book Your Hotel
The Historic District is the right base for a 2-day Savannah trip. You will be within walking distance of every stop on this itinerary.
Search Savannah Historic District Hotels on Expedia →
Day 1: The Heart of Savannah
Morning
7:00 AM — Forsyth Park at golden hour. Start your first full day at Forsyth Park before the crowds arrive. The fountain in the early morning light is one of the most beautiful sights in Savannah. Walk the perimeter path, explore the Fragrant Garden, and take your time.
8:30 AM — Breakfast at Clary's Cafe. A short walk from Forsyth Park, Clary's Cafe is a Savannah institution. Classic American breakfast, good coffee, no pretense.
10:00 AM — Walk the squares. Spend the morning exploring Savannah's famous squares. Start at Chippewa Square (the Forrest Gump square), then work south through Madison Square, Monterey Square, and Calhoun Square. Each one is different — take your time and read the historical markers.
11:30 AM — Mercer Williams House. The guided tour of the Mercer Williams House on Monterey Square is one of the best in Savannah. The architecture is stunning and the history is fascinating.
Afternoon
1:00 PM — Lunch at Zunzi's. The legendary South African-inspired takeout spot on York Street. The Conquistador sandwich is one of the best things you will eat in Savannah. Expect a line — it moves quickly.
2:30 PM — Bonaventure Cemetery. Take a rideshare to Bonaventure Cemetery (about 15 minutes). Spend 60–90 minutes wandering the grounds. The Victorian monuments, the ancient oaks, and the views over the Wilmington River are extraordinary. This is one of the most beautiful places in Savannah.
4:30 PM — Return to hotel, freshen up.
Evening
6:30 PM — Dinner at The Olde Pink House. One of Savannah's most celebrated restaurants in a stunning 1771 mansion on Reynolds Square. Make a reservation well in advance. The praline basket dessert is not optional.
8:30 PM — Ghost tour. Book an evening ghost tour through the Historic District. Most tours start around 8 or 9 PM and last 1–2 hours. This is one of the best ways to experience Savannah after dark.
10:30 PM — Nightcap at the Planters Tavern. The basement bar at the Olde Pink House has live piano, candlelight, and original fireplaces. One of the most atmospheric bars in the city.
Day 2: River Street, the Cathedral, and Departure
Morning
8:00 AM — Brunch at The Collins Quarter. The lavender latte and the brunch menu are worth the short wait. One of the best brunch spots in Savannah.
10:00 AM — Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. Stop at the Cathedral on Lafayette Square. The Gothic Revival architecture and stained glass windows are stunning — and it is free to visit.
11:00 AM — Walk to River Street. Head north through the Historic District to River Street. Browse the shops, grab a praline from River Street Sweets, and watch the cargo ships on the Savannah River.
Afternoon
12:30 PM — Lunch on River Street. Several good options along the waterfront. The Hyatt Regency's Rocks on the River has a pleasant outdoor terrace.
2:00 PM — Final walk through the squares. Before you leave, take one more walk through the squares. The ones you did not get to on Day 1 — Troup Square, Columbia Square, Lafayette Square — are worth a look.
3:30 PM — Depart. If you have time before leaving, consider a quick drive to Wormsloe Historic Site (10 miles south) for a look at the famous live oak avenue.
Practical Notes
Getting around: The Historic District is walkable. Use rideshares for Bonaventure Cemetery and any other destinations outside the district.
Reservations: Book The Olde Pink House and The Collins Quarter before you arrive. Ghost tours also benefit from advance booking.
Shoes: Savannah's cobblestones are beautiful but uneven. Wear comfortable shoes.
Book Your 2-Day Savannah Hotel
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