Wondering Where to stay in Savannah without a car? In this post, I will help you to find the best areas/neighborhoods to stay in Savannah without a car, how to get around without a car, and the best hotels for every budget.
Before getting into the main topic, let’s look at some highlights of Savannah:
Savannah is a city located in the southeastern part of Georgia and is the oldest city in the state. Established in 1733 by British General James Oglethorpe, the city is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and charming southern hospitality.
The historic district is one of the largest in the United States and is filled with cobblestone streets, beautiful squares, and historic buildings.
Forsyth Park is a large public park in the heart of Savannah and features a charming fountain, walking paths, and plenty of green space. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
River Street is a bustling waterfront area along the Savannah River and is lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries. It’s a popular spot to enjoy the river views.
Bonaventure Cemetery is a famous cemetery, known for its picturesque setting and is the final resting place of many notable figures. It’s also featured in the book “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.”
The founder of the Girl Scouts of the USA, Juliette Gordon Low, was born in Savannah, and her birthplace has been preserved as a museum.
Savannah boasts a thriving arts scene, and the Telfair Museums are the city’s oldest public art museums, housing a diverse collection of American and European art.
Given its long history, Savannah has gained a reputation for being haunted. Various ghost tours and haunted history excursions offer a spooky way to explore the city’s darker side.
Savannah is also known for its delicious Southern cuisine, with plenty of restaurants offering classic dishes like fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits,and low-country boils.
How to get to and get around Savannah?
If you are coming from a distance, you can fly to Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport. It is the closest major airport to Savannah and is well-connected to various cities in the United States. From the airport to downtown, you can take a taxi, rideshare service, or airport bus.
Savannah is well-connected by highways, including I-95 and I-16, making it accessible by car from various locations in the Southeastern United States.
You can also reach the city by Greyhound bus and Amtrak trains from other cities in the USA. Amtrak’s Silver Service/Palmetto line stops at the Savannah station.
Once in Savannah, you can easily explore the city on foot, by public transport, rideshare services, and rental cars. The historic district is very pedestrian-friendly, so walking is an excellent way to explore the historic charm.
You can rent bikes from local shops if you prefer cycling. Popular rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft operate in Savannah, offering convenient transportation around the city.
If you want to see the major attractions without walking, you can take one of the popular hop-on-hop-off trolley tours. They provide narrated tours and allow you to get on and off at different attractions.
You can use the Chatham Area Transit (CAT) system, which operates buses throughout the city and nearby areas. CAT buses are an affordable and convenient option for getting around.
For a more romantic and leisurely option, you can take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic district, where a guide will share stories about the city’s history.
If you want more flexibility in exploring Savannah and its surroundings, you can rent a car from various car rental agencies. Be aware that parking in the Historic District can be challenging. There are metered street parking spaces available, as well as paid parking lots and garages.
Where to stay in Savannah without a car?
The best areas to stay in Savannah without a car include Savannah Historic District, River Street, City Market, East Bay Street, Midtown, and Tybee Island. These areas provide central safe locations to explore the city, with plenty of accommodation options for all budget travelers.
Savannah is a very pedestrian-friendly city, so you can explore most of its main attractions without a car. Just remember to bring comfortable walking shoes, especially if you plan to wander around the cobblestone streets and squares.
The city is known for its charming bed and breakfasts, and many of them are located in the Historic District. These establishments often offer personalized service and a unique experience.
During my trip to Savannah, I stayed at the beautiful 4-star hotel Hyatt Regency Savannah. It was located in a great location, close to everything including the river street and the historic district. I was able to explore most attractions and activities on foot and by using rideshare services.
Map of best areas and neighborhoods in Savannah without a car:
6 Best areas to stay in Savannah without a car
1. Savannah Historic District
The Historic District is the best overall area to stay in Savannah, especially if you do not have a car due to its central location, proximity to major attractions, and walkability.
The district is known for its charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and beautiful squares, making it a popular destination for tourists.
Staying in the Savannah Historic District allows you to be within walking distance of many of the city’s top attractions, restaurants, shops, and parks. The area is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot.
You can visit places like Forsyth Park, River Street, City Market, and numerous museums and historical sites without needing a car.
Additionally, the district offers various forms of transportation such as trolleys, pedicabs, and public buses, which can help you get around the city if needed. If you plan to venture outside of the Historic District, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available in Savannah.
You’ll find many well-preserved architecture buildings, showcasing a diverse range of styles, including Georgian, Federal, Greek Revival, Gothic Revival, and Victorian. Many buildings date back to the 18th and 19th centuries, giving visitors a glimpse into Savannah’s rich history.
It is home to 22 historic squares, which are public parks surrounded by historic homes and buildings. These squares provide green spaces throughout the city and serve as gathering places for residents and visitors.
Throughout the district, you’ll find numerous museums and historic sites that provide insights into Savannah’s past, including the Owens-Thomas House, the Mercer-Williams House, and the Telfair Academy, among others.
Given the district’s significance and appeal, various guided tours, including walking tours and horse-drawn carriage tours, offer visitors the opportunity to explore and learn about the area’s history and architecture.
Best places to stay in Savannah Historic District without a car:
Luxury ($$$): Perry Lane Hotel, 5-star hotel, located in the heart of Savannah, within walking distance from Oglethorpe Square, Owens-Thomas Museum, Lafayette and Madison Squares. Featuring free bikes, private parking, an outdoor swimming pool, and spacious rooms, it is a great base for families and couples visiting Savannah.
Luxury ($$$): Azalea Inn and Villas, 4-star Bed and Breakfast, conveniently located within a short walk from Forsyth Park, as well as many shops and restaurants. Featuring a traditional southern breakfast with different menu options each day.
Mid-range ($$): Eliza Thompson House, adult-only B&B, great place for couples traveling without a car as it is located on historic Jones Street in Savannah, easy walk from Forsyth Park. Also close to Paris Market and Brocante, Savannah History Museum, and Lucas Theater For the Arts.
Budget ($): Springhill Suites by Marriott, 3-star hotel, centrally located in the heart of Savannah’s historic district, within walking distance from many restaurants, as well as popular attractions such as The Savannah Civic Center and Telfair Museum of Art.
BEST HOTELS IN SAVANNAH HISTORIC DISTRICT2. River Street
River Street is a popular tourist destination situated along the Savannah River and is known for its historic charm, cobblestone streets, and scenic waterfront views. River Street is one of the city’s oldest areas and is lined with a mix of shops, restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques.
The street is flanked by historic buildings that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. These buildings now house various businesses, giving the area its unique character.
River Street’s riverfront plaza is a popular gathering spot for both locals and tourists. It offers beautiful views of the Savannah River, the Talmadge Memorial Bridge, and Hutchinson Island across the water.
Visitors have the opportunity to take riverboat cruises that depart from River Street. These cruises often provide narrated tours of the river and the city, offering insights into Savannah’s history and landmarks.
River Street boasts a wide array of shops, ranging from souvenir stores to boutique shops offering handmade crafts, artwork, and local products.
Numerous restaurants and bars can be found along River Street, offering a diverse range of cuisine. Many establishments have outdoor seating, allowing diners to enjoy the riverfront ambiance.
River Street hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, art festivals, music events, and more.
River Street is mainly a pedestrian area, making it a great place for a leisurely stroll and exploration of the city’s historic charm. Along the street, you can visit the African American Monument, Cracked Earth, Waving Girl Statue, Graveface Museum, and 1996 Olympic Cauldron.
Best places to stay in Savannah in River Street without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District, 5-star hotel, located within easy walk from River Street Train Museum, City Market, Franklin Square and Ellis Square. It offers air-conditioned rooms, 12 restaurants, and paid private parking for those traveling with a car.
- Mid-range ($$): Olde Harbour Inn, 4-star historic hotel located in the heart of Savannah city center, offering views of the Savannah River. It is surrounded by 90 restaurants and boutiques.
- Mid-range ($$): The Bohemian Hotel Savannah Riverfront, 4-star riverfront hotel located close to the boutiques and bars of Savannah’s old town. It is also a short drive from Savannah International Trade and Convention Center, Mary Calder Golf Course, and Hilton Head International Airport.
3. City Market
City Market is a historic and vibrant area located in the northwest area of the Historic District. It is a popular destination, offering a unique blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences.
City Market dates back to the 18th century when it served as a hub for commerce and trade. Today, it retains its historic charm with cobblestone streets, charming buildings, and a lively atmosphere.
The market is home to a variety of shops and boutiques, offering a range of products such as artwork, clothing, souvenirs, handcrafted items, and unique gifts. It’s a great place to find locally made crafts and Savannah-themed merchandise.
City Market is known for its diverse culinary scene. You can find a mix of restaurants, bars, and cafes serving up delicious Southern cuisine, seafood, barbecue, and international flavors.
The market comes alive with live music and entertainment, especially during weekends and special events. You can enjoy performances by local musicians, street performers, and artists.
City Market’s nightlife scene is vibrant, with bars and pubs offering a range of craft beers, cocktails, and live music for an enjoyable evening out.
City Market is conveniently located near other popular attractions, such as First African Baptist Church, River Street, Ships Of The Sea Maritime Museum, and American Prohibition Museum, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the city.
Best places to stay in Savannah in City Market without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): The Alida, Savannah, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, 5-star family-friendly hotel, located within walking distance to the shopping, dining and entertainment in the City Market and Broughton Street retail corridor.
- Mid-range ($$): Andaz Savannah – A Concept by Hyatt, 4-star hotel located in the heart of the Savannah Riverwalk District, within easy walk from riverfront boutiques and restaurants along the Savannah River, as well as Ellis Square, City Market, Broughton Street with its Lucas Theatre and art galleries.
- Budget ($): Hilton Garden Inn, 3-star hotel, located in central Savannah, surrounded by nightlife, restaurants and shopping.
4. East Bay Street
East Bay Street is a well-known street located in the historic city of Savannah. East Bay Street is one of the many charming and historic streets in the city.
The street runs parallel to the Savannah River, offering beautiful views of the waterfront. Along East Bay Street, you can find a mix of historic buildings, restaurants, shops, galleries, and various attractions.
Visitors to East Bay Street can explore attractions such as Factors Walk, which is a series of iron walkways and steps that connect Bay Street to River Street. The area was historically used for storing cotton and other goods during the 18th and 19th centuries when Savannah was a bustling port city.
Additionally, the street is also close to other significant landmarks in Savannah, such as the Historic District, Forsyth Park, and City Market.
Walking along East Bay Street allows you to immerse yourself in the city’s history and enjoy the stunning architecture and scenic riverfront.
Best places to stay in East Bay Street without a car:
- Mid-range ($$): River Street Inn, 4-star historic, Georgia hotel, situated in the city’s famous Historic District, offering views of the Savannah River.
- Budget ($): East Bay Inn, 3-star historic boutique hotel located opposite River Street in the historic district, within walking distance from City Market and Telfair Museum.
- Budget ($): Staybridge Suites, 3-star hotel, located only 3 blocks from the City Market, featuring a free breakfast buffet every morning.
- Budget ($): Holiday Inn Express, 2-star hotel, located near popular attractions, offering a free daily breakfast buffet and a rooftop swimming pool with city views.
5. Midtown
Midtown is one of the best places to stay in Savannah on a budget, offering more affordable accommodations and restaurant options. Midtown is located only a short drive by car from Savannah Historic district.
It offers a range of hotels, restaurants, boutique shops, and nightclubs. It is where you can find Grayson Stadium, Daffin Park, Habersham Village, Bonaventure Cemetery, and Laurel Grove Cemetery.
Forsyth Park is an iconic 30-acre park and is a must-visit destination in Midtown. It features beautiful walking paths, lush green spaces, fragrant gardens, a large fountain, and historic monuments. It’s an ideal place for picnics, outdoor activities, and enjoying the local scenery.
You can enjoy a relaxing day at Daffin Park, a large public park featuring playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails. It’s an excellent spot for family outings and recreational activities.
If you’re looking for shopping opportunities, head to Oglethorpe Mall. It’s a popular indoor shopping center in Midtown with a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Best places to stay in Savannah in River Street without a car:
- Budget ($): Tru By Hilton Savannah Midtown Ga, 3-star hotel, located within a short distance from Oglethorpe Mall Shopping Center, Hunter Golf Course, Grove Park Plaza Shopping Center, and Varsity Park Shopping Center.
- Budget ($): Home2 Suites By Hilton Savannah Midtown, 3-star hotel that has a fitness center, free private parking, a restaurant, air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi.
- Budget ($): 5 BR, Sustainable homestay located within a short distance from Wells Park, Myers Park, Forsyth Park, Monterey Square, and Pulaski Square.
6. Tybee Island
Tybee Island is a popular coastal barrier island located in Chatham County, Georgia. It is situated approximately 20 minutes east of downtown Savannah, making it a convenient getaway destination for both locals and tourists visiting the Savannah area.
Tybee Island is known for its beautiful sandy beaches and gentle waves, making it an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The main public beach is easily accessible and is a hub for various water activities.
One of the island’s most iconic landmarks is the Tybee Island Light Station, which dates back to 1736. Climbing to the top of the lighthouse provides stunning views of the island and the surrounding area.
The Tybee Island Marine Science Center is an educational facility that offers interactive exhibits about the local marine life and ecosystems, making it a great place for families and anyone interested in the region’s marine environment.
Located nearby, Fort Pulaski National Monument is a historic fortification that played a significant role during the Civil War. Visitors can explore the fort and learn about its history through guided tours and exhibits.
Tybee Island offers various water-based activities, including fishing, dolphin tours, kayaking, jet skiing, and paddleboarding. There are several rental shops and tour operators on the island.
The island has an array of restaurants, bars, and shops, offering a mix of seafood, local cuisine, and souvenir shopping opportunities.
Tybee Island is home to diverse wildlife, including shorebirds, sea turtles, and dolphins. Birdwatchers will find plenty of opportunities to observe different species.
Throughout the year, Tybee Island hosts various events and festivals, including the Tybee Island Pirate Fest, which draws visitors from far and wide.
Best places to stay in Tybee Island without a car:
- Mid-range ($$): Beachview Inn and Spa, great bed and breakfast provides free private parking and a 24-hour front desk, located within walking distance from Tybee Island Beach. It has on-site yoga classes, free use of bicycles, and the area is popular for cycling.
- Budget ($): Royal Palms Motel, 2-star accommodation,situated in Tybee Island, 200 meters from Tybee Island Beach, featuring air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom.
- Budget ($): Tybee Wishes, nice clean condo, close to the south beach, 40 km from Pooler, 50 km from Rincon.
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In conclusion, Savannah Historic District, River Street, City Market, East Bay Street, Midtown, and Tybee Island are the best places to stay in Savannah without a car. These areas offer plenty of accommodation options for all budget travelers to stay and explore the city.
Personally, I recommend the Historic District as the best area for a first visit due to its central location, safety, proximity to major landmarks. You can easily explore everything on foot, by public transportation, or a short Uber or Lyft ride without the need of having a car.