Where I Like to Stay in Savannah

Every time I plan a trip to Savannah, the first thing I look at is where we’re staying. The city is incredibly walkable, but where you plant yourself makes a huge difference in how the trip feels. Savannah has this rhythm to it: mornings in coffee shops, long walks through shaded squares, late dinners in old houses, so being in the right neighborhood lets you fall right into that pace.

For me, the sweet spot is the northern or southern part of the Historic District (I prefer right in the middle to down to the southern end between Oglethorpe and Gwinnett), especially around Forsyth Park. If you look at a map of Savannah, it’s just far enough away from the River Street crowds to feel calm, but still completely walkable to everything you’d want to see. You can start your day with a walk through the park, grab coffee nearby, and slowly wander your way toward Broughton Street or the river depending on the mood of the day.

Savannah is one of those cities where the place you stay can feel like part of the experience. Old houses, wraparound porches, tall windows, creaky staircases. You don’t just sleep there. You feel like you’re stepping into the city’s history a little bit.

My Favorite Airbnb Companies

Airbnbs are my go-to. While the app has almost always steered me well, I've found a few groups that either manage or own and service their own Airbnbs that I know are going to be great every single time.

I almost always start with Savannah Stays or Lucky Savannah. Both companies manage multiple historic properties around the city, which makes it easy to find something that fits the kind of trip you want. Some of the homes are grand and dramatic, others are smaller carriage houses tucked into quiet streets, but they all tend to lean into the charm that makes Savannah special.

The best rentals, in my opinion, usually have tall windows, original floors, and a balcony where you can sit with a glass of wine and watch the world go by. That’s peak Savannah.

Favorite Savannah Hotels

If you’d rather stay somewhere with a little more structure and service, Savannah has some incredible hotels.

The Perry Lane Hotel is one of my favorites. It feels modern but still fits perfectly into the historic surroundings. The rooftop is beautiful, and it’s the kind of place where you can end your night with a drink overlooking the city.

Planters Inn feels more traditional Savannah. It’s charming and classic, tucked right in the middle of the historic district, which makes it a great base if you plan to spend most of your time exploring on foot.

Then there’s the Plant Riverside District Hotel, which sits right along the river. It’s part hotel, part entertainment district, so it has a totally different vibe. If you want easy access to restaurants and nightlife along the water, it’s a fun option.

And last but certainly not least is Hotel Bardo. I dream about this hotel often, from its impeccable design, to amenities, to placement in the city. Dare I say, I'm in love.

Bed & Breakfasts Worth Knowing

Savannah might be one of the best cities in America for bed and breakfasts. Staying in one almost feels like stepping into someone’s private historic home.

Bellwether House is stunning and beautifully restored. The level of detail in the design alone makes it memorable.

Azalea Inn has that cozy Southern hospitality feeling that makes you want to linger over breakfast and coffee a little longer than you planned. Lisa’s guide to Savannah!

The Simple Rule

If you remember nothing else from this post, remember this: stay somewhere in or near the Historic District and close to Forsyth Park if you can.

Savannah is a city that reveals itself best when you walk it slowly. When your hotel or Airbnb is close enough to wander back to in the afternoon, change clothes, and head back out again, the whole trip starts to feel effortless. That’s when Savannah really shines.