Although Savannah, Georgia looks beautiful year-round, some months are certainly more ideal for a visit than others. While it’s true that most people consider spring the best time to visit Savannah, I personally have another favorite time of year.
I won’t keep you in suspense… it’s fall! There’s no doubt about it. Christmas in Savannah is my second favorite, and spring in Savannah is tied with the holiday season.
To help you plan the perfect Savannah vacation and decide which time of year would work best for you, I’ve come up with a list of pros and cons for each season.
Note: This guide contains affiliate links to my trusted travel partners.
If you’re new around here, first of all… allow me to extend a warm welcome!
My name is Erin, and I authored the Savannah First-Timer’s Guide. It combines my top Savannah travel tips from this website into one handy downloadable guide.
You might also be interested in:
☀️ Savannah’s Weather by Month
🏠 A Local’s Guide to the Best Places to Stay in Savannah
Now, let’s get to planning your (future) trip…
Spring in Savannah
As I mentioned above, spring is a very popular season for tourism, and there are many good reasons for that.
Topping the list: Spring in Savannah means it’s azalea season, and azalea season is undeniably the prettiest time of year to visit the city!
Spring Weather in Savannah
The weather in Savannah is mild during March and April, but then our famous Southern heat and humidity makes its presence known towards the beginning of May.
The average high in March and April is in the mid 70s, while it reaches to the mid 80s in May. The humidity makes it feel much hotter.
You can count on the early morning and late evening hours to be pleasant throughout the season.
Springtime Events in Savannah
Spring is when some of the biggest events of the year occur in the city.
Two of Savannah’s major spring events are St. Patrick’s Day and the Savannah Tour of Homes and Gardens.
St. Patrick’s Day:
Our St. Patrick’s Day celebration is the second largest in the United States!
Festivities include the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, the “greening of the fountain” in Forsyth Park, and the Mass of the Feast of St. Patrick at the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist.
Plan for it: The week of March 17, 2025
NOGS Tour of Hidden Gardens:
This event allows you to tour private homes and gardens throughout the Historic District. It’s held annually in March or April and spans a few days.
Plan for it: April 19-20, 2024
⭐ Insider Tip: Hotel prices rise significantly in the weeks surrounding St. Patrick’s Day, and you need to book accommodations months in advance. Here are the top Savannah Historic District hotels.
Can’t-Miss Spring Destinations
When visiting Savannah during the spring season, there are a few spots you absolutely shouldn’t miss.
Bonaventure Cemetery
This is one of the most beautiful cemeteries in the entire world, and March is the peak blooming season for azaleas in the cemetery.
You’ll see a sea of pink blooms in nearly every direction you look. It’s incredible!
Forsyth Park
The park is an ideal place to go for a stroll and enjoy nature.
You can always count on seeing seasonal plants surrounding the iconic fountain, and azaleas and dogwoods bloom throughout the park.
Spring is also a fantastic time to visit Savannah’s Historic District. The beautifully maintained gardens and picturesque streets make it the perfect place to spend a day exploring.
You’ll find captivating squares, landmarks, churches, and incredible restaurants throughout the Historic District.
Related Reading: 21 Photos That Will Make You Want to Stroll Through Forsyth Park
Outdoor Dining Savannah
There are plenty of restaurants in Savannah that offer outdoor dining, and I suggest taking advantage of them during the spring season.
Here are a few of my favorite spots to grab a bite to eat while relaxing and enjoying the sunshine.
- The Collins Quarter – This casual café has two locations to choose from: one on Bull Street and one in Forsyth Park. Their Avocado Smash is my current favorite.
- Bull Street Taco – Located in the Starland District, this is a fun and funky spot for Mexican food. I suggest the Chorizo Taco (topped with egg) or their unique Cauliflower Taco.
- Little Duck Diner – One of my personal favorites, this spot is dubbed a “vintage chic diner with a modern twist.” They’re known for their tomato soup and gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches.
I think we got really lucky getting spots at the bars, but we didn’t realize how truly far in advance you should book meals at the popular restaurants!
Cassie (via my Savannah First-Timer’s Guide Facebook group)
As one of the members in my private Facebook group suggests, you can always try to request a spot at the bar at the most famous Savannah restaurants — even if you forgot to make reservations in advance.
Is Spring the Best Time to Visit Savannah GA?
So, what’s my final verdict? Spring is an incredible time to visit!
Pros: Savannah looks magical with seas of colorful azaleas in bloom, and it’s almost as if the weather was perfectly designed for long strolls through the Historic District.
It’s undoubtedly the prettiest time of year to visit. Still need proof? Check out Spring in Savannah: A Photo Essay.
Cons: The downsides to keep in mind are the high rates for accommodations, the crowds, the pollen that clings to every surface (including your clothes), and the rambunctious St. Patrick’s Day crowd.
(If you’re visiting to party, then consider that last one a perk.)
Where to Stay in Savannah in the Spring
I’ve hand-picked these options because they’ll give you some of the best views of the azaleas.
- Hotel Bardo (formerly The Mansion on Forsyth Park)
- Planters Inn Savannah
- Eliza Thompson House
Hotel Bardo faces Forsyth Park, Planters Inn overlooks Reynolds Square, and Eliza Thompson House was the first home ever built on beautiful Jones Street.
Related Reading: Is Jones Street Really the Prettiest Street in Savannah?
Summer in Savannah
The summer months bring serious heat and humidity to Savannah, and just when you think the humidity can’t get any worse — the rainy season arrives!
Summer Weather in Savannah
The peak months for hot weather in Savannah are June, July, and August. That’s right… it’s hot all summer long.
When I tell you it’s a different kind of heat, I truly mean it!
Savannah is a coastal city, so it’s very humid. The humidity makes it difficult for your body to cool itself, which increases the “feels like” temperature considerably.
That means some days we might have a high of 90°F (32°C), but the “feels like” temp might be 105°F (40°C).
August is typically the rainiest month of the year — although it’s common to have brief, pop-up afternoon thunderstorms throughout the summer months.
📸 Photo Tip: One of the best times to capture incredible photos of Savannah is after a fresh rainfall. It brings out the resurrection fern that covers the Southern live oaks, and the brick pathways glisten from the rain. You can also capture pretty reflection shots.
Tips to Survive the Heat
If summertime is the only opportunity you have to vacation in Savannah, there are a few ways to make the best of your trip, in spite of the hot weather.
- Plan to do the majority of your outdoor exploration in the early morning hours. The early evening hours also work, but note that many of the home tours and museums close around 6 pm.
- Spend the hottest portion of the day in the air conditioning — whether that’s indoors or on a tour bus. (Here’s a helpful post to help you decide which trolley tour is best for you.)
- An afternoon nap is another great way to spend your time. Alternatively, as many Savannahians have discovered, the heat of the day makes a great excuse to head to the bar for a refreshing drink.
- Speaking of drinks, it’s important to stay hydrated in the heat. Carry a water bottle with you so you can refill it throughout the day.
- You’ll probably also want some ice cream when it’s hot out. Popular Leopold’s Ice Cream has been in business more than 100+ years!
- Finally, I suggest wearing loose, flowy clothes so you’ll be more comfortable. Most restaurants have a very casual dress code during the summer months, since they realize you need to dress for the weather.
Cant-Miss Summer Destinations
I always joke that the best way to spend a summer day in Savannah is to leave. (Seriously, though, I DO head north every summer.)
That’s right: leave the city and to head out to Tybee Island, Georgia!
After all, what better place to be when it’s hot out than at the beach?
Located only 20 minutes from downtown Savannah, Tybee is a charming little island that offers a typical laid-back, beachy vibe.
Spend the day digging your toes in the sand, explore some of Tybee’s adorable shops, visit the lighthouse, or indulge in some delicious seafood while catching a sunset over the water.
My favorite restaurant on Tybee Island is probably Sundae Cafe, and my favorite place to see a sunset is the Back River beach.
Related Reading: 7 Incredible Beaches on the Georgia Coast
Is Summer the Best Time to Visit Savannah GA?
Not in my opinion. Sorry folks!
I know it’s when most people have time off work and are able to vacation with the family, but unless you really love the heat and humidity, it’s not the prime time to explore.
Pros: There are plenty of historic homes, landmarks, and museums in Savannah that will allow you to stay in an air-conditioned area during the heat of the day. Plus, the beach is only 20 minutes away!
Cons: The humidity is brutal. Summer is a fairly crowded time to visit. Crime in Savannah trends upwards during the summer months. The bugs are worse in the summertime, too.
Where to Stay in Savannah in the Summertime
I’ve hand-picked each of these options because they have pools where you can cool off when it gets too hot out!
- Perry Lane Hotel
- Hilton Homewood Suites
- Hampton Inn Historic District
- Search Home Rentals on Tybee Island
Perry Lane is more of a luxury option, while both the Homewood Suites and Hampton Inn are reasonably priced and great for families.
Fall in Savannah
Fall is my favorite time of year in Savannah!
Just make note that fall doesn’t truly begin around here until the last week in October.
When I say I love fall in Savannah, I’m really referring to the week surrounding Halloween — which is always a good time — and the month of November.
Fall Weather in Savannah
The summer heat and humidity tend to hang around throughout September and much of October.
The average high temperature in September is 86°F (30°C). When you add in humidity levels above 70%, the “feels like” temp climbs well into the 90s.
⭐ Insider Tip: September is the peak of Atlantic hurricane season. If you plan a trip during September, I recommend purchasing a hurricane travel insurance policy, just in case.
October is slightly better, since the air cools down in the early morning and late evening hours. The “feels like” temps still reach into the 80s.
October was still surprisingly warm weather, and traveling on the brink of Halloween added an extra “spooky” factor to the haunted city.
Audrey M. (via my Savannah First-Timer’s Guide Facebook group)
Once November rolls around, the daytime temperatures cool down considerably!
The average November high is usually in the low 70s. It’s also the driest month of the year in Savannah.
The fall weather in Savannah is perfect for strolling around the city! The leaves start changing colors in November, and the city typically isn’t overcrowded.
Fall Events in Savannah
The beautiful fall weather provides an ideal opportunity to host events in Savannah, and there are some great ones!
- Savannah Film Festival – This SCAD production is the largest university-run film festival in the country. It’s a star-studded event that draws lots of celebrities to our area.
- Savannah PRIDE – While it’s not as big as the Atlanta event, Savannah’s PRIDE Festival is a fun-filled, multi-day event that includes a parade, fashion shows, bar crawls, fundraisers…and plenty of rainbows. It’s a good time!
- Halloween – I can’t mention fall in Savannah without mentioning Halloween. Savannah is known as one of the most haunted cities in America, so we have plenty of spooky happenings year-round — the number of events just increase towards the end of October! Wag-O-Ween is a popular one that allows you to include your furry friends.
Related Reading: Savannah in October: The Most Epic Halloween Events and Fall Festivals
Can’t-Miss Fall Destinations
Each place I listed as a must-see in the spring should also be explored in the fall!
Although the azaleas won’t be in bloom, you can enjoy the colorful fall foliage instead.
Bonaventure Cemetery
The Spanish moss dangling in the trees against a backdrop of warm fall color adds an extra spooky touch to an already stunning cemetery.
Historic District
If you haven’t guessed by now, the Historic District is worth exploring year-round!
You’ll see homes decorated with pumpkins and fall decor, and many homeowners go all-out with their Halloween decorations.
River Street
This is another popular spot no matter the season, but I particularly love it in the fall. Check out the storefronts at River Street Sweets and Savannah’s Candy Kitchen.
They both tend to decorate with impressive seasonal decor, and it’s fun to stop in either shop for yummy fall treats like pralines, caramel apples, and seasoned nuts.
Related Reading: 11 Photos That Will Make You Fall in Love With River Street
Is Fall the Best Time to Visit Savannah?
My final verdict? Fall is my personal favorite, so it gets my vote as the best time to visit Savannah.
As much as I love it, I figure you might like it, too! Since it’s not as expensive as springtime, it’s worth giving it a shot.
I’m not the only one who thinks so, either…
We visited Savannah in mid October, it was an amazing time! Crowds were lower, and the weather was warm enough to enjoy shorts and sandals during the day and a light sweater at night! I would highly recommend a fall visit!
~Melanie (via my Savannah First-Timer’s Guide Facebook Group)
Pros: You’ll enjoy clear and sunny days, low humidity (by Savannah standards), spooky Halloween decor, delicious fall treats, and enough ghost tours to keep you busy for days.
Cons: Hurricanes, or the occasional mandatory evacuation due to a hurricane, are the only negatives that come to mind.
Related Reading: The 11 Most Haunted Places in Savannah, GA
Where to Stay in Savannah in the Fall
I’ve hand-picked each of the options below because they’re deep in the heart of the Historic District and are known for decorating beautifully for the fall season.
- Ballastone Inn (closed for renovations until late summer of 2024)
- Hamilton-Turner Inn
- The Inn on West Liberty
Related Reading: What’s the Most Haunted Bed & Breakfast in Savannah, GA?
Winter in Savannah
December is the most romantic time of year to visit. I think it’s even better than Valentine’s Day, because Savannah’s Christmas lights are so magical.
Everything is decorated so beautifully during the holidays!
Winter Weather in Savannah
Like most places in the South, the winters in Savannah are rather mild.
Average lows are around 40°F and highs are typically in the 60s — sometimes even the low 70s.
January is by far the coldest month, but winter simply doesn’t last too long around here.
The tulip trees begin blooming by mid-February and are quickly followed by the azaleas.
Snow is almost unheard of.
If you’re lucky enough to be in Savannah when it’s snowing, make sure you take as many photos as possible! It’s a rare sight.
It’s actually much more common to see some fall foliage still hanging around in December than it is to see snow.
Most visitors are surprised to learn that the Southern live oaks seen throughout Savannah aren’t deciduous trees; they’re closer to evergreen and tend to replace their leaves slowly over a period of weeks.
There’s never a period of time where the trees look completely bare, and the beautiful Spanish moss is in the trees year-round.
Winter Events in Savannah
The majority of the events during the winter months are holiday-related.
- Savannah Boat Parade of Lights – Santa arrives by boat instead of by reindeer in Savannah! The first Saturday after Thanksgiving ushers in the Boat Parade of Lights, where decorated boats make their way down the river for bystanders on River Street to enjoy.
- City Market Holiday Open House – City Market fills with Christmas lights, and you can purchase art and gifts from local vendors.
- Christmas Market at Plant Riverside – Savannah’s newly developed west end of the river is the spot to be for Christmas festivities. The Marriott Plant Riverside hosts a Christmas market that runs through early January.
- Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens Drive Thru – The historic Bamboo Park offers an elaborate holiday light display. (Purchase tickets early. It often sells out!)
- NYE on River Street: It’s always fun to see fireworks over the river. They look prettiest if you’re staying at the Westin on Hutchinson Island, which faces Savannah’s waterfront.
Can’t-Miss Winter Destinations
There are so many pretty sights to see in Savannah during Christmas! I already mentioned a few above (City Market, River Street), but I want to point out a couple more.
The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist is a must-see year-round, but it’s particularly stunning during the holidays.
You’ll find full-sized Christmas trees made from poinsettias, as well as a beautiful and highly detailed nativity scene.
Broughton Street
Savannah’s most famous shopping street is draped with twinkle lights from one side to the other all season long, and you’ll find wreaths on every lamppost.
The storefronts go all-out with their holiday window displays, and you’ll find the official city Christmas tree at the intersection of Bull and Broughton Streets.
Forsyth Park and the Squares
The famous fountain gets a holiday makeover with greenery and bows, and many of the squares do, too.
North of Gaston Streets
The streets directly north of Forsyth Park feature some of the most beautiful homes in Savannah, and they’re usually decorated beautifully for the holidays.
The breathtaking Armstrong-Kessler Mansion is a must-see!
Related Reading: Christmas in Savannah (The Most Magical Time of Year!)
Cozy Indoor Spots to Hang Out in Savannah
On the rare days when it’s too cold to spend time outdoors, here are a few cozy indoor places I recommend.
E. Shaver, bookseller
This adorable independent bookstore has been open since 1975 and is home to four sweet cats with literary-themed names.
Imagine curling up with a good book with a cat stretched out in a ray of sunlight right next to you? Perfection.
Crystal Beer Parlor
Grab a burger and a few beers at one of the oldest restaurants in Savannah. The walls are lined with local memorabilia, and they fill their plates with delicious, hearty food.
Six Pence Pub
This is about as close as you’ll get to an English pub in Savannah! It even has a bright red phone booth by the entrance.
Is Winter the Best Time to Visit Savannah GA?
My final verdict? You might be sensing a trend here, but there’s no terrible time to visit… except summer.
The weeks leading up to Christmas top my list, but late February is also very nice because you can catch the flowers blooming before the pollen is in full-force.
Pros: Savannah looks like a scene straight from a Dickens novel during the Christmas season — complete with carolers serenading homes in the Historic District.
From the cathedral to the squares to Broughton Street… it’s all magical.
It helps that the temperatures are fairly mild during the winter months compared to the majority of the country.
Cons: Most home tours and museums close around 6pm, which means there aren’t a ton of activities to keep you busy after dark (and it gets dark around 5:30 during the holiday season… closer to 6:30 in February).
Where to Stay in Savannah for Christmas
I’ve hand-picked each of the options below for their beautiful Christmas decorations and prime locations within the Historic District.
Hamilton-Turner Inn is within steps of Cathedral St. John, so you’ll be able to hear the bells chime as you enjoy coffee in the courtyard.
The Marshall House is located along bustling Broughton Street, so you can cross last-minute Christmas shopping off your list while checking out the beautiful holiday window displays.
Thomas Weihs Haus is located in the quieter southern zone of the Historic District, and the owners of the inn go above and beyond with their beautiful Christmas decorations.
Do you have any questions for me about the best time to visit Savannah GA? If so, let me know in the comments below.
Savannah Travel Guide Info
If you’re planning to a trip to Savannah, here are a few additional resources I’ve created to help you out.
- Free Resources Library – When you sign up for my email list, you’ll get a checklist of “50 Things To Do On-Foot in the Historic District (No Car Necessary)” and other helpful printables.
- Savannah First-Timer’s Guide – My ebook combines my most helpful Savannah travel tips from this website in one handy downloadable guide.
When you purchase my ebook, you also get access to a private Facebook group where you can ask questions about your trip and get advice/see photos from others who have recently visited.
So, what’s the best time to visit Savannah in your opinion? Let me know in the comments below!
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Erin authored the Savannah First-Timer's Guide and loves helping first-time visitors plan their trips. She lives in the artsy Starland District and enjoys exploring Savannah's hidden gems, as well as the surrounding Lowcountry.
I’ve never been to Savannah but it looks gorgeous and so charming!
My wife and I have been to Savannah ten times now, but never during the winter. We have a month stay in January, and by your article, it sounds like January there will be much more comfortable and enjoyable than here in Ohio. Am I understanding that correctly?
Yes, it should be much more comfortable and enjoyable than Ohio! Snow is very rare in Savannah. Sometimes the winter months are even warm enough for lightweight layers and no jackets.
Very informative post! I love that there’s really no wrong time to visit. It’s been on my U.S. bucketlist for awhile, so I’m hoping to get there when the crazy world situation is over!
Love this guide! I just went to Savannah too! The Little Duck Diner is so cute! Such a charming city!
I think spring is for me! I’ve only been in the summer (so far) it was just too hot for comfort. The ferns were magnificent though!
I LOVED this post. Such an incredible amount of information. I don’t know why I still haven’t made it to Savannah but it is high on my list. Maybe in 2021 since we probably won’t be going international. I’ll keep the first timers guide in mind too. Thanks!!
I’d love to visit Savannah but don’t think I’m ready for summer there. Spring would be amazing, it looks just beautiful with all the colors of the gorgeous flowers
This was really interesting to read! I love how different cities are during all the seasons. Your spring photos are especially gorgeous 🙂
Savannah looks so charming all year round! If I had to choose though, I would visit in the spring or fall. Saved your post and pinned it for my next US travels 🙂
I plan to visit in early October but have already been there twice! I love this place and it’s southern charm. No other place in this world like it!
That’s very true! It’s a uniquely charming city.
Hi Erin, I have never been to savanna, so want to see it when it is at its best, but prices can be high. I want to stay at The Planters Inn. Is end of February ok to visit? I am from pittsburgh and would want to feel somewhat warm. What are your thoughts. Pam.
Hi Pamela! Late February is a fantastic time to visit. Sometimes the azaleas even start blooming that early. Even if they don’t, you’ll be able to see the tulip trees and other early spring blooms. The weather is generally mild at the end of February and you’ll feel much warmer here than you would in Pittsburgh. The Planters Inn is a fantastic option!
Hi Erin I’ve never been to Savannah I planning go in mid or late February .I’m from Miami
Lovely article! I will be a first timer to Savannah spring 2023 for 2 weeks. Pollen on your clothes?! Oh my! I was hoping to be able to wear my clothes more than once, can only pack so much traveling by air! 😢. Any advice?
The yellow pollen happens in early to mid-March. It’s already pretty much over by now! If you’re visiting in April or May, you won’t need to worry so much about it. The yellow pollen spores are pretty big, so you should be able to shake them off your clothes. I wouldn’t recommend wearing white pants or dresses, though!
Thank you! I’ll be there mid March. Shake shake shake! LOL about wearing white, it’s my go to color. I’ll try to keep it down to just white tops, easy to wash in a sink and hang dry in the shower. So worth it for all the spring beauty! Your photos are lovely.
Savannah has been on my bucket list places to travel and your article has convinced me to go in fall. — thanks!
My husband and I are planning our first trip here for our Anniversary. What area would you suggest is best to rent a house. We want to be in the heart of it all and able to walk everywhere.
Definitely the Historic District! You can walk to restaurants, landmarks, and entertainment in that area very easily. When you get tired of walking, you can hail a pedicab or use the free DOT shuttles to get around. Later in the evening, you can use the Downtowner Savannah app to hail a free ride. This post might help: https://savannahfirsttimer.com/where-to-stay-in-savannah-georgia/