Charleston, South Carolina, and Savannah, Georgia, share many similarities — delicious food, rich history, and beautiful architecture. In fact, Savannah and Charleston are often considered “sister cities” because of their similar southern charm! However, each city also has something unique to bring to the table — so if you can’t visit both cities during the same trip, choosing just one city can feel like an impossible decision!
To make your choice between Charleston vs. Savannah easier, check out some of the key similarities and differences between these two cities to find which one offers the perfect blend of dining, architecture, and things to do to spark your interest!
Visiting & Getting to Savannah and Charleston
Savannah, known as the “Hostess City,” is located in northeast Georgia along the Savannah River, about 30 minutes from the Atlantic Coast. Most visitors fly into the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, which is about a 20-minute drive from Downtown Savannah. Charleston, known as the “Holy City,” is located in southeast South Carolina, right on the Atlantic Coast. Most visitors fly into Charleston International Airport, which is about a 20-minute drive from Downtown Charleston.
Since Charleston, SC, and Savannah, GA, are just over 100 miles apart, their climates are similar. The best time to visit both cities is in the spring (peak season), when temperatures are warm and the beautiful flowers are in bloom. Alternatively, you can visit during the fall (shoulder season) for fewer tourists, better rates, and crisp, cool weather after the summer humidity has lifted.
Best Things to Do in Charleston and Savannah
When comparing things to do in Savannah and Charleston, both cities offer historical sites, beautiful architecture, and walkable streets. However, Savannah offers more laid-back charm and less structured activities, like strolling through scenic squares and touring historic homes, while Charleston feels much more like a big city with well-known tourist sites, like Fort Sumter National Monument.
However, both cities have a ton to see and do — here are the top attractions in each:
Savannah
- Stroll through Forsyth Park and Savannah’s charming 22 historic squares.
- Tour historic houses, like the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters and Mercer Williams House, to dive into the city’s history and admire the period-accurate architecture.
- Explore the dining, shopping, and entertainment on River Street, or take a riverboat cruise on the Georgia Queen on the Savannah River.
- Go on a ghost tour to see the haunted hotels, mansions, and cemeteries in one of the most haunted cities in the United States!
Charleston
- Take a horse-drawn carriage ride down King Street in Downtown Charleston.
- Snap a photo in front of the famous colorful houses on Rainbow Row.
- Take a boat tour to Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired, or board an aircraft carrier at Patriot’s Point Naval & Maritime Museum to learn more about WWII.
- Shop at the Charleston City Market, a shopping hub in Charleston since the 1800s.
Dining in Savannah vs. Charleston
Both Savannah and Charleston specialize in Southern cuisine, fresh seafood, and innovative restaurant concepts — you’ll find many similar items on the menus in both cities.
However, while Savannah’s culinary scene offers more local, casual dining experiences, Charleston is known for its high-end, fine dining establishments and has earned a reputation as the “Food Capital of the South.” Here is an overview of some of the most famous restaurants in Savannah and Charleston:
Savannah
- Savor southern favorites with a refined twist in a historic setting at The Olde Pink House.
- Get southern home cooking at Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room, a family-owned spot since the 1940s.
- Sit down for a delicious brunch and fun breakfast cocktails at the trendy Collins Quarter.
Charleston
- Grab a table at Poogan’s Porch for delicious Lowcountry favorites in a restored Victorian home.
- Experience an eclectic dining experience with fresh, local ingredients at Slightly North of Broad.
- Sit down for a traditional Southern dinner with seasonal ingredients and modern flair at Husk (also one of the best restaurants in Savannah!).
Popular Day Trips from Savannah vs. Charleston
Savannah and Charleston are both a short drive from beautiful beaches, stunning natural landscapes, and fascinating historic sites. While Charleston’s coastal location offers more beaches to choose from, both cities are an exceptional launching point for exploring the Lowcountry.
Here are some top day trips from Savannah and Charleston:
Savannah
- Admire the stunning avenue of moss-covered live oaks at Wormsloe Historic Site.
- Explore the nature trails through the maritime forests and salt marshes at Skidaway Island.
- Visit Tybee Island to relax on the beaches, climb to the top of Tybee Island Lighthouse, and go on a dolphin-watching tour.
Charleston
- Visit some of the most popular beaches in the South, like Folly Beach and Hilton Head Island for laid-back vibes and fun adventures, and Kiawah Island for upscale coastal elegance.
- Admire the well-preserved architecture and learn more about the region’s history at plantations like Boone Hall Plantation and Magnolia Plantation and Gardens.
- Take a boat ride through the picturesque Cypress Gardens or learn how tea is grown and made at the Charleston Tea Garden.
Architecture & Atmosphere in Savannah vs. Charleston
Charleston and Savannah are filled with cobblestone streets, historic homes and churches, and plenty of southern charm. Both locations top the list of the most beautiful cities in the country!
Charleston has several well-preserved antebellum mansions and colonial buildings, and though it still offers plenty of charm, it feels more developed with a polished, upscale feel. Overall, the atmosphere is quiet and refined. In comparison, Savannah is filled with Victorian mansions, moss-covered oak trees, and charming historic squares to offer a more romantic, mystical, laid-back environment. Savannah also has a more vibrant, party-oriented culture than Charleston. And, while both Charleston and Savannah are walkable cities, Savannah’s pedestrian-friendly layout and less-busy roads make it easier to explore by foot.
Stay in the Heart of Savannah’s Historic District with South Key Management: Your Key to Southern Hospitality
Savannah vs. Charleston — which southern city is best for your vacation? Generally, you’ll appreciate Charleston if you’re looking for a more developed city with high-end dining, polished architecture, and structured activities, and you’ll fall in love with Savannah if you’re looking for a laid-back, charming getaway with historic squares and buildings, boutique shopping, and local dining experiences.
Does Savannah sound like the right vacation destination for you? If so, we would love to host you in one of our charming vacation rentals in the heart of Savannah’s Historic District. Book direct for the best deals, and read through our visitor guide for our top recommendations of things to do before you visit Savannah. We can’t wait for you to experience the historic charm and southern hospitality that awaits!
