CharlestonvsSavannah
Can't decide between Charleston and Savannah? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.
Charleston
Charleston is the jewel of the American South, a historic port city of antebellum architecture, cobblestone streets, and world-class cuisine. This charming city offers pastel-colored mansions, horse-drawn carriages, Lowcountry cooking, and nearby beautiful beaches and plantations.
Known for
Savannah
Savannah is a hauntingly beautiful Southern city of moss-draped squares, Gothic Revival mansions, and rich history. America's first planned city offers 22 unique squares, ghost tours, renowned SCAD art school culture, and a more laid-back vibe than its neighbor Charleston.
Known for
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Head-to-Head Comparison
See how these destinations stack up in key categories
Culture & History
Charleston offers Rainbow Row, Historic District Walking, Magnolia Plantation
Savannah offers Forsyth Park, Historic Squares, River Street
Food & Dining
Charleston is famous for its local dining scene
Savannah is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Charleston offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Savannah offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
March to May, October to November
Weather
Summer: 32°C, Winter: 12°C
Summer: 32°C, Winter: 12°C
Top Attractions in Charleston
- 1Rainbow Row
- 2Historic District Walking
- 3Magnolia Plantation
- 4French Quarter
- 5Lowcountry Cuisine
- 6Sullivan's Island Beach
Top Attractions in Savannah
- 1Forsyth Park
- 2Historic Squares
- 3River Street
- 4Bonaventure Cemetery
- 5Ghost Tours
- 6SCAD Art Scene
Charleston is Popular With
Savannah is Popular With
Hidden Gems
Discover lesser-known attractions in each city
Hidden Gems in Charleston
- 1
The Unitarian Church Graveyard
A hauntingly beautiful, overgrown cemetery in the heart of downtown, shaded by massive live oaks and filled with ancient, weathered tombstones.
- 2
Philip Simmons' House & Garden
The former home and workshop of the legendary African American ironworker, whose intricate gates and scrollwork adorn much of historic Charleston.
Hidden Gems in Savannah
- 1
Wormsloe Historic Site
The breathtaking, mile-long avenue lined with live oaks draped in Spanish moss leading to the ruins of an 18th-century colonial estate.
- 2
The Book Lady Bookstore
A charming, packed-to-the-rafters used and rare bookstore on Liberty Street in the historic district.
Neighborhoods to Explore
Discover the best areas to visit in each city
Top Areas in Charleston
Historic District / French Quarter
The heart and soul of old Charleston, a walkable labyrinth of cobblestone streets, historic churches, and hidden courtyards.
Upper King Street / Downtown
A dynamic and trendy corridor that transforms from a shopping district by day into Charleston's premier dining and nightlife destination after dark.
Top Areas in Savannah
Historic District
The heart of Savannah, encompassing the famous squares, grand mansions, and cobblestone streets.
Victorian District
South of the Historic District, this area boasts stunning, colorful Victorian homes and a slightly more residential, quiet vibe.
Budget Comparison
Compare the cost of traveling in each city
Budget in Charleston
Budget in Savannah
Book Activities
Find tours and experiences in both cities
Book Activities in Charleston
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Book Activities in Savannah
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Getting There
Compare transport options to both destinations
Find cheap transport to Charleston
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Charleston
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Find cheap transport to Savannah
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Savannah
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Our Verdict
Both Charleston and Savannah are incredible destinations. Charleston excels in Southern charm and antebellum architecture, while Savannah stands out for Spanish moss and historic squares.
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