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Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

Georgia, USA

Accommodation Types

Hotels

  • Budget-Friendly Chains

    Properties like Days Inn, Quality Inn, or Motel 6, often located outside the immediate Historic District.

  • Mid-Range Hotels

    National chains like Hilton Garden Inn or Courtyard by Marriott. Many are within or just at the edge of the Historic District.

  • Upscale Boutique Hotels

    Stylish properties blending modern design with historic elements, for instance, The Kimpton Brice Hotel or The Perry Lane Hotel.

  • Luxury Brands

    High-end hotels like The Kessler Collection properties (e.g., Mansion on Forsyth Park) with premium services.

Unique Local Accommodation Types

  • Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs)

    Famous for historic B&Bs in beautifully restored mansions, offering local insights and a cozy atmosphere (e.g., The Gastonian).

  • Vacation Rentals and Apartment Options

    Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo present numerous rentals, from entire historic homes to private rooms.

  • Homestay and Community-Based Tourism

    Vacation rentals sometimes present a homestay feel. Seek properties that state support for local initiatives.

  • Camping and Outdoor Accommodation

    Camping exists at nearby state parks like Skidaway Island State Park, for an affordable and nature-focused alternative.

Neighborhood Guide

Savannah’s neighborhoods have distinct characters, amenities, and proximity to attractions. The chosen area for your stay greatly influences your trip.

Historic District

Benefits
  • Walkable to attractions, restaurants, shops.
  • Immersive historic atmosphere.
  • Many hotels and B&Bs.
  • Generally very safe in well-trafficked areas.
Drawbacks
  • Can be noisy, especially near nightlife.
  • Accommodation prices are generally highest.
  • Parking challenging and expensive.
  • Busiest tourist area.

Victorian District

Benefits
  • Often more affordable accommodation.
  • Within walking distance or short ride to downtown.
  • Presents a local living experience.
  • Generally safe.
Drawbacks
  • Fewer immediate dining/shopping options.
  • Might need transport for major attractions.
  • Exercise standard urban precautions.

Starland District

Benefits
  • Presents a local experience away from crowds.
  • Good for budget-conscious travelers.
  • Growing number of independent businesses.
  • Home to Starland Yard (food trucks).
Drawbacks
  • Further from core tourist attractions.
  • Generally requires a ride or longer walk.
  • Some areas undergoing revitalization.
  • Awareness needed at night.

Other Neighborhoods

River Street:

Lively with souvenir shops, restaurants, and bars. Scenic river views and active nightlife. Can be crowded and noisy.

Tybee Island:

A coastal barrier island (20-30 mins east) with a relaxed beach town atmosphere. Direct beach access. Requires a car for transport to Savannah.

Booking Strategies

Securing your stay effectively makes a trip more enjoyable.

Advance Booking Recommendations by Season

  • Peak Season (Spring/Fall): Essential to book 3-6 months in advance; earlier for major events.
  • Shoulder Season (Feb, early Sept, Dec): 1-2 months in advance is generally sufficient.
  • Low Season (Summer, Jan): Book closer to travel date, sometimes a few weeks prior.
  • Negotiating walk-in rates is not common, especially at larger hotels.

Trusted Booking Platforms

  • Online Travel Agencies (OTAs): Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, Hotels.com.
  • Vacation Rentals: Vrbo and Airbnb.
  • Direct Hotel Websites: Often provide best rate guarantees or loyalty benefits. For chains like IHG Hotels.
  • Hostels: Hostelworld for budget accommodation.

Booking Considerations

Deposit & Cancellation Policies
  • Policies vary significantly by property and platform.
  • Always review terms before confirming.
  • Flexible rates permit free cancellation up to a point.
  • Non-refundable rates generally mean loss of payment if plans change.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
  • Highest prices: Spring (St. Patrick's Day, festivals), Fall (Film Festival, pleasant weather), major holidays.
  • Lowest prices: Generally Summer (heat/humidity) and January (post-holiday).
  • Summer heat can mean excellent value.

Consideration

For B&Bs

Booking directly with B&Bs is frequently preferred. It permits direct communication and potential special offers.

House Sitting

For longer stays or unique experiences, explore TrustedHousesitters for house/pet sitting exchanges.

Local Listings

Some local tourism sites list independent properties, but major OTAs and direct websites cover most options.

Accommodation Recommendations

Savannah has a property for every budget and travel style. Here are some suggestions for your choice.

Comparison Table for Different Budget Levels

Budget ~$40-$120/night

Hostel bed, motel, budget hotel, Airbnb (private room).

  • Example: The Downtown Savannah Hostel, Baymont by Wyndham Savannah South, or a private room in Victorian District.
Mid-Range ~$120-$250/night

Hotel (national chain), B&B, vacation rental (full apartment/suite).

  • Example: Hilton Garden Inn Historic District, Courtyard by Marriott, The Azalea Inn & Gardens B&B.

Luxury ~$250-$500+/night

Luxury Accommodation

Boutique hotel, resort, historically significant B&B, luxury vacation rental.

  • Example: The Mansion on Forsyth Park, The Perry Lane Hotel, The Gastonian, The Bohemian Hotel Riverfront.
Prices Vary

Prices vary greatly by season and specific property. These are illustrative ranges for a night's stay.

Specific Travel Needs

  • Family-Friendly Options

    Hotels with suites (Homewood Suites), vacation rentals with kitchens, or hotels with pools (Kimpton Brice Hotel).

  • Solo Traveler Recommendations

    Hostels (Downtown Savannah Hostel), B&Bs for a personalized experience, or hotels in the core Historic District for safety and access.

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

    Vacation rentals with kitchens/laundry or extended-stay hotels like Residence Inn.

  • Accessibility Note

    When booking a historic property, inquire about accessibility; older buildings may have limitations (e.g., stairs, no elevators).

Properties with Exceptional Cultural or Historical Significance

  • The Marshall House (123 E Broughton St)

    One of Savannah's oldest hotels (since 1851), beautifully restored with Civil War history.

  • The Gastonian (220 E Gaston St)

    A highly-rated, elegant historic B&B composed of two meticulously restored 1868 mansions.

  • Hamilton-Turner Inn (330 Abercorn St)

    A magnificent 1873 Second Empire mansion known for architectural grandeur and local legends.

  • The Olde Harbour Inn (504 W River St)

    Converted 19th-century cotton warehouse on River Street with spacious suites and exposed brick.

Important Travel Consideration

Location Strategy

Staying slightly outside the absolute center of the Historic District (e.g., near Forsyth Park or in the Victorian District) presents better value and a quieter experience.

Accessibility to Attractions

These locations remain easily accessible to central attractions.

Explore More Accommodation Options

General Bookings

Discover a wide range of hotels and accommodations on Booking.com.

Asian Market Focus

For accommodation with an Asian focus, consider Agoda.

Vacation Rentals

Find unique vacation rentals, including homes and apartments, on Vrbo.