Known as the “Hostess City of South,” the historic city of Savannah is one of Georgia’s most popular places to visit. And with its popularity, figuring out where to stay in Savannah isn’t always simple.
Savannah’s celebrated Southern charm swirls around its endearing Historic District. The esteemed area dates back to the 18th century. The Historic District is jam-packed with historical architecture and leafy city squares. The neighborhood is also home to the best hotels in Savannah. Looking for luxury accommodations or more budget-friendly lodgings? Either way, the Historic District is the best area to stay in Savannah.
Read to find the perfect Savannah hotel? Experience Southern hospitality at its finest with this complete guide to the best places to stay in Savannah.
Looking for more ideas for your trip? Check out our other hotel & accommodations guides and our Savannah Travel Guide and Georgia Travel Guide for recommendations on when to visit, where to go & what to do!
Best places to stay in Savannah
Savannah is renowned for its Southern charm and hospitality. And for first-time visitors, nailing down where to stay in Savannah brings out the city’s charisma in full force.
The streets of Savannah are chock-loaded with charming historic hotels, B&Bs, and inns. Accommodations are scattered in neighbourhoods throughout the city. Most of the best Savannah hotels, though, lie within its delightful Historic District.
In this Savannah accommodation guide, we stick mostly to areas in & around this popular sightseeing district. The area is home to most of the top things to do in Savannah. It’s also the safest spot for travelers in a city not always renowned for its safety.
We’ve also included one bonus district outside the city center: Tybee Island. Located about 30 minutes east, Tybee Island is one of the most popular Savannah day trips. If you’re looking to escape the city and enjoy seaside pleasures, Tybee Island is the perfect getaway.
The best areas to stay in Savannah are:
Historic District
✔ Best area to stay in Savannah for first-time visitors & sightseeing
Most Savannah accommodation searches start and end with its charming Historic District. The district pushes into the city center south of the Savannah River. The neighborhood comprises the city’s 18th-century historical core.
The Savannah Historic District charms with leafy city squares, ringed by historical houses. Wander around to stumble upon landmarks like Owen-Thomas House and the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist. In lovely parks like Johnston Square and Chippewa Square, let the stress of any Savannah itinerary will float away.
Elsewhere in the Historic District, hit the cobblestone streets to peruse the area’s boutique shops. You’ll fill your suitcase with everything from the latest fashions to souvenirs.
The Savannah Historic District is also the best place to indulge in the city’s culinary scene. The area teems with a variety of restaurants serving Savannah’s famed Southern cuisine.
Recommended hotels in Historic District
The Marshall House
One of the most popular hotels in Savannah, The Marshall House is the perfect choice for your sightseeing adventure. The rooms are doused with modern comforts and classic elegance. Fuel your day with a continental breakfast or enjoy a nightcap at the on-site lounge.
Doubletree by Hilton Historic Savannah
With its superb location, the Doubletree by Hilton is one of the top hotel options in the historic center. The mid-range hotel charms with its colorful decor and range of amenities. Duck into the on-site restaurant for a quick breakfast or dinner or grab room service for a quiet evening in. You’ll also enjoy cooling down in the hot Georgia sun at the outdoor pool.
Kehoe House
Housed in an 1892-era Victorian mansion, Kehoe House delivers a classic Georgia hospitality like none other. Besides its elegant rooms, the Renaissance revival B&B offers a range of amenities. You’ll love the complimentary breakfast and evening wine & hors d’oeuvres.
Hamilton-Turner Inn
Architecture fans will love staying at the graceful Hamilton-Turner Inn. The boutique inn features a wealth of period decor, including charming four-poster beds in some units. Reservations include a scrumptious complimentary breakfast. The inn occupies a central location on Lafayette Square. Attractions like Colonial Park Cemetery and Andrew Low House are a quick walk away.
Perry Lane Hotel
For the ultimate in luxury, book yourself into the Perry Lane Hotel. This 5-star hotel shows off elegant rooms along with a range of excellent on-site amenities. Cool off to superb city views at the blissful rooftop swimming pool and sun terrace. Unlike many luxury hotels, Perry Lane is a pet-friendly hotel.
River Street
✔ Best neighborhood to stay in Savannah for nightlife
For many travelers, River Street is a favorite hangout in Savannah’s downtown. Stretching along the Savannah River, River Street is lined with historic warehouses. Most once served the city’s cotton trade.
Since their heyday, the buildings along River Street have been converted to other uses. Today, you’ll see boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and bars. With their superb views, these riverfront hangouts are among the coolest places to chill in downtown Savannah. Scattered among them, you’ll also find some of the best places to stay in Savannah.
If you decide to spend the night on or near River Street, you’ll be face-to-face with Savannah’s finest restaurants and nightlife options. Don’t miss out on grabbing a fresh meal to river views on the patio of Dockside Seafood. For casual cocktails, plop down at Rocks on the Roof. The popular rooftop bar & restaurant offers superb views over the Savannah River.
Recommended hotels on River Street
River Street Inn
Although its name betrays its East Bay Street location, River Street Inn is one of the area’s best boutique hotels. Throughout the inn, the building’s 200-year-old history shines. The exposed red-brick walls blend perfectly with its modern furnishings & decor. You’ll love the inn’s complimentary daily wine & cheese tasting.
East Bay Inn
Occupying an 1852 heritage building, East Bay Inn is one of the city’s top boutique hotels. The rooms are soaked in Southern historic charm. Like the area’s other boutique inns, East Bay Inn offers a nightly wine & cheese reception. The on-site Tandem Coffee & Spirits also serves light breakfast, coffee, snacks, and cocktails. East Bay Inn sits on East Bay Street, steps away from the Savannah River.
Olde Harbour Inn
Overlooking the Savannah River, Olde Harbour Inn delivers old-world charm in spades. Each suite at this historic riverfront hotel is spacious and bright. They’re even equipped with extra amenities like a refrigerator and microwave. With its riverside location, the restaurants and boutiques of River Street are steps away.
Homewood Suites Savannah Historic District/Riverfront
Want to squeeze the most out of your visit to this riverside city? Spend your nights at the Homewood Suites. With its prime riverfront location, all the city’s allure is within steps. Each suite is spacious and bright, offering city & river views to guests. Cool down after a day of sightseeing in the beautiful rooftop swimming pool. Or enjoy a nightcap in front of a fireplace at the laid-back rooftop bar.
The Bohemian Hotel Autograph Collection
For a unique riverfront experience, look no further than this top luxury pick. The Bohemian Hotel is one of the coolest choices in the city. From its rooms to its dining options, the hotel shines with rich, elegant designs. Wind down to dramatic river views at its laid-back rooftop bar.
JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District
One of the best luxury hotels in Savannah, the JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District is also one of the brand’s most interesting. The 4.5-star hotel occupies a former power plant. Its unique architecture represents the pinnacle of regenerative design. The bright and spacious rooms dazzle with superb city and river views. Amenities include 12 restaurants, 3 rooftop bars, and a sun terrace. To fuel up for the day, you can also enjoy an American or continental breakfast.
City Market
✔ Recommended area to stay in Savannah for shopping & eating
Wedged between Ellis Square and Franklin Square, City Market is one of downtown Savannah’s most interesting areas. The four-block open-air public market has operated since the 1700s.
Wander around the market to browse the vendors’ handcrafts, artwork, and gourmet food. In the blocks surrounding City Market, you’ll also find plenty. Explore to uncover cool art galleries, boutique shops, restaurants, and bistros.
Looking to chill out around the market? Pull up a chair at the Cafe at City Market or the popular bar Wet Willie’s. For delicious seafood and steak, reserve a table at award-winning Belford’s Savannah.
Recommended hotels near City Market
Hilton Garden Inn Savannah Historic District
Staying at the Hilton Garden Inn Savannah Historic District, you’ll enjoy quick access to the area’s best attractions. Restaurants, shopping, and nightlife all await in the vicinity. The hotel offers a blast of amenities, including an outdoor pool, fitness center, and restaurant.
The Cotton Sail Hotel
Located in a former 1800s cotton warehouse, the Cotton Sail Hotel is one of the area’s top luxury picks. The hotel fuses the building’s centuries-old features with modern amenities for a look & feel unmatched in the area. Upgrade to one of its deluxe king or queen rooms to enjoy a private balcony with views over the river.
Andaz Savannah
Thanks to its central location, Andaz is one of the city’s most coveted luxury hotels. Like in all its sister properties, rooms expose a chic modern elegance. Amenities at the hotel include an outdoor swimming pool, sun terrace, restaurant, and fitness center.
Forsyth Park
✔ Recommended area in Savannah for quieter sightseeing opportunities
To experience a quieter side of downtown, set your sights on the area around Forsyth Park. The massive 30-acre park is one of Savannah’s finest green spaces. It’s the perfect introduction to the city’s spectacular greenery.
Staying near Forsyth Park, you’ll enjoy meandering its walking paths under the shade of gnarled oak trees. If you’re visiting on a Saturday, browse the eclectic selection of food at the Forsyth Farmers’ Market. Or spend time wandering in the Victorian District. The enchanting area is home to the city’s finest 19th-century architecture.
Forsyth Park sits on the southern edge of the Savannah Historic District. Even with the neighborhood’s quieter location, you’re still close to the action.
Recommended hotels around Forsyth Park
Catherine Ward House Inn
For couples, few Savannah hotels are more romantic than Catherine Ward House Inn. Occupying a historic home, the boutique inn is high on old Southern charm. Upgrade to a bigger king or queen room to enjoy a private balcony with courtyard views.
Forsyth Park Inn
For a taste of old Southern hospitality, book yourself a room at Forsyth Park Inn. The venerable bed & breakfast delights with its alluring period decor and furnishings. Unwind from your day in the peaceful garden and terrace.
Mansion on Forsyth Park
Looking for a full-service hotel in a historic landmark building? The Mansion on Forsyth Park pulls out all the stops for a perfect trip. Amenities as this top-rated Savannah include an outdoor pool, spa, and fitness center. End the evening with a cocktail in hand to live music at the rooftop lounge.
The Gastonian
Like its neighbors, The Gastonian reveals Savannah at its most elegant. The 4-star B&B is part of the city’s historic inns collection. Its rooms, gleaming with turn-of-the-century flair, offer the perfect Georgia romantic getaway.
Tybee Island
✔ Best district to stay near Savannah for seaside pleasures
Looking to sneak out of the Savannah Historic District bubble? Escape to Tybee Island. The barrier island is located about 30 minutes west of the city center. Tybee Island is a popular getaway for locals leaving the city behind for seaside pleasures.
While most famous for its sandy beaches, Tybee Island isn’t a one-trick pony. Besides its oceanfront charms, Tybee Island tosses in a few attractions of its own.
The island is home to Fort Screven, an important late-19th-century military fortress. Not far from its northern beachhead lies the Tybee Island Light Station & Museum. Climb to the top of the historic landmark lighthouse for sweeping views over the Atlantic Ocean.
Recommended hotels on Tybee Island
Tybee Island Inn Bed & Breakfast
Located 5 minutes from Tybee Island Beach, this seaside B&B delivers one of the island’s finest accommodation experiences. Besides its well-appointed rooms, you’ll love hanging out in the common area in front of the fireplace.
Admiral’s Inn on Tybee Island
One of the top Tybee Island hotels, Admiral’s Inn boasts a modern style accented by soothing sea-like tones. The beach is steps away from the hotel. You’ll also be able to cool down at the inn’s outdoor pool area.
Desoto Beach Bed and Breakfast
To experience Tybee Island’s seaside allure, spend a night at the Desoto Beach Bed and Breakfast. The 4-star property is a stone’s throw away from the Atlantic. If you’d rather not swim in the ocean, you can also enjoy the B&B’s outdoor pool.
Other areas in Savannah
- Garden City: Located northwest of the city center, Garden City is a good option for travelers on a tighter budget. There’s a small cluster of chain hotels in Garden City that offer good value budget accommodations. Garden City is also a good option if you’re flying in & out of Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport. Both downtown and the airport are about a 15-minute drive from Garden City.
- Midtown: Like Garden City, Midtown is a good alternative for budget-conscious travelers. South of the center, Midtown comprises several sub-areas. Neighborhoods in Midtown include Habersham Woods, Ardsley Park, and Kensington Park. Most of the hotels & accommodations are clustered around Habersham Woods and the Oglethorpe Mall area.
- Starland: Once a dilapidated no-go, the Starland District is now one of Savannah’s coolest upcoming neighborhoods. The area teems with trendy boutique shops, hip restaurants, food trucks, and craft breweries. Accommodations in Starland are mostly limited to homestays and Airbnb-style owner rentals.
