Savannah is a city built on history, storytelling, and beautifully preserved architecture. From its iconic squares to its riverfront and centuries-old streets, every corner of the city has a story to tell. For first-time visitors, one of the best ways to experience Savannah is through a guided tour.
Whether you prefer walking through historic neighborhoods, riding through the city on a trolley, or exploring its legendary ghost stories at night, Savannah offers a variety of tour experiences that bring its past and present to life.
Here’s a guide to some of the best Savannah tours for first-time visitors and the trusted companies that make them memorable.
Historic Walking Tours
Walking tours are one of the most immersive ways to experience Savannah’s Historic District. With its walkable layout and shaded squares, the city is perfectly suited for exploring on foot.
Savannah Walks is a highly rated tour company known for its engaging guides and in-depth storytelling. Their tours take visitors through the historic squares and streets while sharing the stories that shaped Savannah into what it is today. It’s a great option for those who want a deeper understanding of the city’s history.
For a slightly different experience, the Savannah Taste Experience offers the First Squares Food Tour. This tour combines history with stops at local restaurants, allowing visitors to sample food while learning about Savannah’s past. It’s an ideal choice for those who want to blend sightseeing with a culinary experience.
Trolley Sightseeing Tours
For visitors who want to cover more ground while still learning about the city, trolley tours offer a convenient and informative option.
Old Town Trolley Tours is one of Savannah’s most recognizable sightseeing experiences. Their hop-on, hop-off format allows visitors to explore at their own pace while stopping at key landmarks throughout the Historic District. It’s a flexible option that works well for first-time visitors trying to get an overview of the city.
Old Savannah Tours is another long-running trolley tour company offering narrated rides through Savannah’s historic streets. With guided commentary throughout the ride, it provides a relaxed way to take in the city’s architecture and landmarks without needing to navigate on your own.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours
For a more classic Savannah experience, horse-drawn carriage tours offer a unique way to explore the city.
Carriage Tours of Savannah is one of the most well-known companies offering narrated rides through the Historic District. Traveling through the city’s streets by carriage adds a timeless feel to the experience, allowing visitors to take in the scenery at a slower pace.
These tours are especially popular for those looking to enjoy Savannah’s charm in a relaxed and memorable way. The combination of historic surroundings and guided storytelling makes carriage tours a favorite among first-time visitors.
Ghost Tours
Savannah is often considered one of the most haunted cities in the United States, making ghost tours a must for many visitors.
Ghost City Tours is one of the most popular options, offering a variety of themed nighttime walking tours. These tours focus on Savannah’s darker history and legends, bringing the city’s haunted reputation to life through storytelling.
Blue Orb Ghost Tours provides a more investigative-style experience, with an emphasis on paranormal history and detailed narratives. Known for its in-depth approach, this tour appeals to visitors who want a deeper dive into Savannah’s supernatural side.
Ghost tours are a great way to experience the city after dark while exploring a completely different side of its history.
Riverboat Cruises
For a change of perspective, a riverboat cruise along the Savannah River offers a relaxing and scenic experience.
Savannah Riverboat Cruises provides a classic paddlewheel boat experience with options ranging from sightseeing cruises to sunset and dinner cruises. Being on the water gives visitors a unique view of the city’s riverfront and surrounding areas.
Whether you choose a daytime cruise or an evening outing, it’s a great way to slow down and enjoy Savannah from a different vantage point.
Choosing the Right Tour for Your Visit
With so many options available, the best tour often depends on how you prefer to explore. Walking tours are ideal for those who want a closer look at the city’s history, while trolley tours offer a broader overview with added convenience. Carriage rides provide a more traditional experience, and ghost tours add a layer of intrigue and storytelling after dark.
Many visitors choose to combine a few different types of tours to get a well-rounded experience of Savannah. Whether you’re interested in history, food, or local legends, there’s a tour that fits your style.
Stay Close to Savannah’s Best Experiences
One of the advantages of visiting Savannah is how accessible everything is—especially when you stay near the Historic District. Being close to the city’s top tour starting points makes it easy to plan your days and explore without the stress of long commutes.
With Southern Belle Vacation Rentals, you can stay in a location that keeps you close to Savannah’s best tours while offering the comfort and privacy of a home. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or an extended stay, having the right home base allows you to experience the city at your own pace.
Book your stay with Southern Belle Vacation Rentals and discover Savannah through its stories, history, and unforgettable tour experiences.