48 Hours in Savannah, GA: A Perfect Weekend Itinerary
You’ve been warned: Savannah is a heartthrob. This is the itinerary that will turn your weekend plans into forever plans
Planning a weekend getaway to Savannah? Proceed with caution…this guide may cause spontaneous daydreams, extended stays, and a strong desire to book a return trip before you’ve even left town. I’ve packed this itinerary with the spots I personally love most. It has the coffee shops I start my mornings in, the hidden gems I always bring out-of-town friends to, and all the dreamy Savannah spots you can’t miss!
Whether it’s your first visit or your fifteenth, I hope this guide helps you fall in love with this city the same way I did. There’s something about Savannah that just grabs a hold of you and never lets go. Maybe it’s the way the sunlight filters through Spanish moss, the way every square feels like a secret garden, or the way time slows as you stroll the cobblestone streets. Even after all these years, this city still takes my breath away.
Let’s be real, I have way too many favorites to fit into a 2 day itinerary. Feel free to add, edit, or modify to your travel pace, but if you’re hoping to soak up as much as possible in a short amount of time, this itinerary is a solid place to start. I’ve curated this list to help you experience the very best of Savannah and help you fall head over heels for the Hostess City!
Arrival Day:
Accommodation Check-in
Dinner at The Public Kitchen & Bar
Dessert at LuLu’s Chocolate Bar
Evening Cocktails at The Peregrin
After checking into your 5 star rated Hosting Savannah rental, start the weekend off with dinner at The Public Kitchen & Bar, a local staple in the Historic District that perfectly blends laid-back comfort with just the right touch of upscale vibes. There are floor-to-ceiling windows that open to the street and strings of bistro lights that create the best atmosphere.
Whether you sit inside among the cozy banquettes or snag a sidewalk seat to people-watch along Liberty Street, it’s the kind of place where the energy is always buzzing but still relaxing. Think: first-night-in-town perfection.
The menu rotates seasonally and always surprises, but I find myself ordering the shrimp and grits almost every time. They are that good— creamy, flavorful, and perfectly Southern. *Don’t forget to order a side of bread for dipping in that one-of a kind sauce.
After dinner, if you have a sweet tooth like me, take a short stroll to one of Savannah’s most beloved late-night gems: Lulu’s Chocolate Bar. This cozy spot feels like a whimsical little hideaway with a candlelight glow, and downright unforgettable desserts.
Peanut Butter Pie and Flourless Chocolate Torte
Whether you’re celebrating something or just soaking in the night, Lulu’s is the perfect spot. The dessert menu is filled with rich, decadent options, the chocolate peanut butter pie is a local go-to. One bite and you’ll understand why locals dream about it. My personal favorite though, is the flourless chocolate torte. YUM!
Pair it with a glass of wine, a dessert martini, or even one of their signature hot chocolates if you’re in the mood for something cozy. It’s indulgent, but you’re on vacation, so calories don’t count.
Last but not least, end your night on a high note, at Peregrin, the stylish rooftop bar atop Perry Lane Hotel. With panoramic views of Savannah’s Historic District and twinkle lights that rival the stars. This swanky rooftop has comfy lounge seating, lush green turf, and a rotating cocktail menu that’s as playful as it is polished. Whether you go for a refreshing frozé, a seasonal spritz, or a classic shaken martini, every sip tastes better with that glowing skyline as your backdrop. You can spot church steeples, treetops wrapped in Spanish moss, and the soft flicker of gas lamps lining the streets below.
It’s the perfect way to toast your first night in Savannah or your second, or third. Every visit here feels like a little celebration!
Head back to you home away from home and rest up for a day of sight-seeing!
Day One:
Stroll Forsyth Park and Farmers’ Market
Coffee and Brunch at Collins Quarter Cafe
Shop the Design District
Afternoon Trolly Tour
Sunset Dinner at Bar Julian
Evening Ghost Tour
Late night Ice Cream at Leopold’s
There’s no better way to kick off a Savannah Saturday than with a slow stroll through the Forsyth Farmers’ Market. It sets up every weekend under the moss-draped oaks on the south end of Forsyth Park and feels like the heart of the community. Local farmers, bakers, and makers line the walkway with tents full of fresh produce, handmade goods, flowers, and treats that taste like someone’s grandma made them (because they probably did).
This isn’t your typical grab-and-go market. It’s a place to linger. I love to order a latte from the Collins Quarter coffee window and wander through the park. Stroll past the art vendors, street musicians, and the iconic Forsyth fountain glistening in the morning light. Its truly a sight!
If you’re staying nearby, pick up a bundle of fresh blooms to enjoy in your rental or some local honey to take home as a sweet Savannah souvenir. It’s one of those moments that makes you feel like a local, even if you’re only here for the weekend.
By now you have probably worked up an appetite and the perfect brunch spot is tucked right in the center of Forsyth Park. The Collins Quarter is just steps from the playgrounds and Forsyth fountain. Their brunch menu is full of local favorites like avocado toast, crispy hash with poached eggs, french toast and the chicken and waffles are what dreams are made of. And don’t even get me started on their mimosas and seasonal lattes. They truly have my favorite coffee in town. For a full list of my favorite coffee shops, click here.
There’s something really special about sipping coffee under the oaks while the park buzzes around you. The open air patio is the perfect place to sip a mimosa or a lavender latte. It’s cozy but lively, casual but elevated and truly the perfect brunch setting.
After you fuel up on good eats and caffeine at brunch, its time to meander over to the Design District. This stylish little stretch along Whitaker Street is a shopping lover’s dream. Think home decor, unique gifts, and that effortless Southern-meets-modern aesthetic. Its filled with local shops that will make you want to redecorate your entire house and refresh your entire skincare routine and wardrobe (don’t say I didn’t warn you).
I could spend all day in this area, and honestly? Sometimes I do, it’s way to close to home, in the best way!
Here are a few of my absolute go-tos:
Paris Laundry – Founded by a breast‑cancer survivor who turned her journey into purpose through helping her customers transform not only their skincare, but their entire lifestyle. Think effortless clean beauty and elevated wellness, it’s the kind of place that makes you want to revamp your self-care game immediately
Madison and 5th – Madison and 5th is a luxury designer consignment shop tucked in Savannah’s Design District and walking through the doors feels like joining a secret society of fashion lovers.
One Fish Two Fish – A Savannah classic. It’s the kind of shop that has everything you didn’t know you needed: home décor, gifts, jewelry, and that coastal-meets-modern vibe we all secretly want our house to have.
Hannah E. – This boutique has a way of styling pieces you didn’t know you needed until you see them paired together and one of those shops that makes you want to completely reinvent your wardrobe.
Peaches – Whimsical and sophisticated children’s shop. If you’re looking for a baby gift or special outfit for your little ones, this is the spot. You are sure to find some precious little treasures.
Asher + Rye – is the kind of boutique café‑meets‑lifestyle‑shop that feels like discovering your favorite place for the first time, even if you’re local. Enjoy a quick coffee, pastry or smoothie in their courtyard.
After your afternoon of shopping, be sure to carve out a little time for a classic Savannah experience with a historic trolley tour. It’s one of my favorite ways to see the city, especially if you’re short on time.
It’s the perfect mix of history and humor, and such a great way to get a feel for the layout of the city while soaking up its charm and giving your feet a break!
You won’t want to miss the sunset views at Bar Julian, atop the Thompson Hotel for dinner. This rooftop offers one of the best panoramic scenes of the city, especially at golden hour. Watch the sun dip below the skyline, casting a warm glow over the river, rooftops, and steeples while you nibble on wood-fired bites or sip a signature cocktail. If you’re lucky, you might even capture a container ship sailing through the Savannah River!
Once you’ve soaked in sunset views and rooftop sips, it’s time for a little spooky adventure. No visit to Savannah is complete without hearing a few ghost stories. Choose a Genteel & Bard walking tour or a Riding Hearse Ghost Tour , they are sure to add a memorable twist to your night. They will be filled with history, mystery, and local legends in a fun and slightly cheeky way to see the city after dark.
To end the day on an extra sweet note, you have to make a stop at the one and only Leopold’s Ice Cream. This iconic ice cream shop has been scooping up smiles since 1919. Yes, there’s often a line down the block and yes, it’s absolutely worth the wait. It will be the perfect way to end your full Savannah day!
Day Two:
Coffee and Breakfast at Origin Coffee Bar
Accommodation Check-out/ Store Luggage with Bounce
Explore River Street and Plant Riverside District
Lunch at Vinnie Van GoGo’s
Afternoon shopping at City Market/ Broughton Street
Start your final morning off at Origin Coffee Bar, one of my newer go-to spots. This is a coffee shop that embodies all things community and good coffee. Tucked just a few blocks from the hustle, Origin makes the most creative and stunning lattes that always surprise me in the best way. Their food menu is incredible too and its a great spot for the gluten-free travelers. I typically order the sausage burrito or if I’m in the mood for something lighter, the toasted caprese. I always pair it with a hot vanilla latte. I am currently loving all of their seasonal menu rotations too. There’s something about sipping coffee here that feels like the perfect Savannah send-off.
Pro Tip: After checking out of your rental, drop your luggage at a nearby Bounce location so you’re free to wander hands-free. It’s a game-changer if your travel plans don’t line up perfectly with checkout time and helps you soak up more time exploring (Because let’s be honest—you’re not quite ready to leave yet)!
Next, make your way toward Savannah’s Historic River Street and Plant Riverside District. Take a stroll along the water, taking in views of the Talmadge Memorial Bridge arching in the distance. It’s especially stunning around golden hour, when the light hits just right. If your lucky, you may catch a massive container ship glide by from the Port of Savannah. Meander along the riverwalk, pop into art galleries and shops and take some stunning riverfront photos. As you walk around, you’ll pass a mix of historic warehouses-turned-boutiques, local sweet shops, and artisan pop-ups. Grab a treat at River Street Sweets (you’ll smell the pralines before you see them) and you have to stop n for some free samples!
At the far west end of the riverfront, you’ll find The Plant Riverside District, a reimagined power plant turned modern playground. Be sure to take a full look at their website for live events and a full list of shops, restaurants and rooftop bars. It’s part luxury hotel, part art museum, and part riverfront gathering spot, complete with gemstone-lined hallways, live music, rooftop bars, and even a giant chrome dinosaur in the JW Marriott lobby.
Whether you’re grabbing a cocktail, snapping a few riverfront photos, or just soaking in the buzz, this is the perfect place to savor your final hours in the city.
When the hunger hits, you have to head back up to Vinnie Van Go-Go’s in City Market. This beloved local pizza joint serves GIANT, foldable New York-style slices that hit the spot every time. Grab a seat outdoors, and enjoy the people-watching and delicious pizza.
After lunch, take one last stroll through City Market and Broughton Street, where you’ll find some of Savannah’s best shopping. Whether you’re hunting for one last souvenir, a Savannah-made candle, or a locally designed tee or just window shopping, this is the place you’re sure to find it!
One of my favorite little shops to pop into on Broughton Street is Aleksandra’s, they stock got the cutest Savannah-themed gifts, candles, and unique keepsakes that feel a step above your typical tourist fare. It’s my go-to for locally inspired gifts and a great spot to grab something to remember your weekend by.
The Paris Market is another iconic stop to make, it is one of those magical places that feels like stepping into a whimsical French flea market with a Savannah twist. It’s a beautifully curated boutique filled with treasures from around the world: vintage finds, charming homewares, artisanal candles, apothecary goods, and Parisian-inspired décor. Every corner feels like it’s been styled for a photo shoot, and honestly, it probably has. Their in house cafe is a the perfect place to grab a coffee on your way back to the airport.
Have a little time to spare? Rent a bike or book a ride with Savannah On Wheels. It’s such a charming, breezy way to roll through the historic squares one last time, and honestly, it’ll make you feel like you’re in a movie. This is one of my family’s favorite ways to tour the city. You can enter code HOSTINGSAVANNAH for a discount on your tour or bike rentals.
So if you’re already planning your next trip back… just know, you’re not alone. It happens to the best of us and we can’t wait to have you back!
Until the next check-in…
Alyssa
