Related Articles:
- Charleston to Savannah: A Scenic Journey
- Savannah to Jacksonville: Exploring the Southeast
- Atlanta to Savannah Road Trip: Discover the South
Savannah, with its charming cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, is a popular destination for travelers. As you plan your visit to this enchanting city, one question may arise: Do you need a car in Savannah? Let’s explore the factors that can help you make an informed decision.
Hertz
J.D. Power ranks Hertz as the best car rental company in North America, and for good reason. Their focus on customer satisfaction means you’ll have a great time renting from them – from start to finish.
Enterprise
Enterprise Rent-A-Car has locations all over the world, so they’re bound to have one close by. Plus, they offer a wide selection of cars – from economy to luxury – so you can find the perfect ride for your trip.
Fox Rent-A-Car
Fox Rent-A-Car is the perfect solution for budget-minded travelers. They offer low rates on all of our vehicles, so you can hit the open road without breaking the bank.
* With Expedia member prices, you could save 10% or more right now on thousands of cars.
Do You Need a Car In Savannah
No, you typically don’t need a car in Savannah.
Here’s why:
- Downtown Savannah is compact and easy to navigate on foot: The beautiful historic district, with its squares, parks, and colonial architecture, is ideal for strolling.
- There’s a free shuttle service, the DOT, which makes stops at various points of interest downtown, perfect for sightseeing.
- Bike rentals are a popular choice and there are plenty of bike lanes and paths in the city.
- If you’re planning to explore further afield, like Tybee Island, renting a car might be useful. However, you can also use a taxi or rideshare for these occasional trips, which could be cheaper and more convenient than renting a car, especially when considering parking costs and availability.
So, the numbers to consider are: zero for the cost of the free DOT shuttle, the cost of occasional taxis or rideshares versus the cost of car rental, and the potential costs and hassle associated with parking if you do decide to rent a car. Weigh these against your plans and needs while visiting Savannah.
Exploring Savannah’s Walkability
Savannah’s historic district, with its well-preserved 18th and 19th-century buildings, is a delight to explore on foot. The city’s grid layout, designed around picturesque squares filled with moss-draped oak trees and statues, makes walking an enjoyable and convenient way to get around.
When you walk through the streets of Savannah, you’ll find a treasure trove of historic sites, including the iconic Forsyth Park, the birthplace of Juliette Gordon Low (founder of Girl Scouts of the USA), and the Mercer-Williams House made famous by the novel and movie “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.” The city’s rich history and architectural beauty are best appreciated at a leisurely pace, allowing you to savor the details and immerse yourself in the unique ambiance.
Public Transportation Options
If you’re staying within the downtown area, you’ll find that Savannah offers several public transportation options to help you navigate the city. The Chatham Area Transit (CAT) system operates buses that connect various neighborhoods, attractions, and shopping areas. CAT’s fare-free Downtown Transportation (DOT) system provides convenient hop-on, hop-off service, making it easy to explore the city’s highlights.
Additionally, Savannah is a bicycle-friendly city, and you can rent bicycles from various vendors throughout the downtown area. Cycling is a fantastic way to enjoy the city’s picturesque streets and soak in the vibrant atmosphere while covering a bit more ground than walking.
Day Trips from Savannah
While Savannah itself has much to offer, you may also want to venture beyond the city limits and explore the surrounding areas. In such cases, having a car can provide you with the freedom and flexibility to embark on exciting day trips.
One popular day trip is a scenic drive from Savannah to Charleston. Just a two-hour drive away, Charleston, South Carolina, is known for its well-preserved architecture, historic charm, and world-class cuisine. With a car, you can easily explore this captivating city and its surrounding plantations, gardens, and coastal beauty.
If you’re looking to experience more of the southeastern United States, consider a road trip from Savannah to Jacksonville. Jacksonville, Florida, offers beautiful beaches, cultural attractions, and a vibrant arts scene. Having a car allows you to make stops along the way, explore charming coastal towns, and discover hidden gems off the beaten path.
Another fascinating destination within driving distance is Atlanta, Georgia. By renting a car in Savannah, you can embark on a road trip to Atlanta and delve into its rich history, diverse culinary scene, and world-class museums. Exploring Atlanta’s neighborhoods and attractions at your own pace can add an extra layer of adventure to your trip.
Considerations for Your Savannah Adventure
While the decision of whether to rent a car in Savannah ultimately depends on your preferences and planned activities, here are some factors to consider:
1. Itinerary Flexibility
Renting a car gives you the freedom to create your own itinerary and explore the city and its surroundings according to your interests. Whether you want to take spontaneous detours, visit nearby attractions, or experience the natural beauty of the region, having a car allows you to do so at your own pace.
2. Parking and Traffic
Like any city, Savannah has its share of traffic and limited parking options, particularly in the historic district. If you choose to rent a car, be prepared to navigate through narrow streets and potentially encounter challenges when finding parking spaces, especially during peak tourist seasons. However, with a little patience and planning, parking garages and street parking can be found within walking distance of the main attractions.
3. Budget Considerations
Renting a car adds to your travel expenses, including the cost of the rental itself, fuel, parking fees, and any additional insurance coverage you may opt for. Consider your budget and compare the costs of renting a car with the expenses of using alternative transportation options like walking, public transit, or rideshare services. Depending on the length of your stay and planned activities, it may be more cost-effective to rely on other means of transportation.
4. Group Size and Traveling with Children
If you’re traveling with a larger group or young children, having a car can provide added convenience and ease of transportation. It allows you to accommodate everyone comfortably and navigate the city without relying on public transportation schedules or walking long distances.
Conclusion
In summary, the question of whether you need a car in Savannah depends on your preferences, planned activities, and the level of convenience and flexibility you desire. If you plan to stay primarily within the downtown area, enjoy walking, and take advantage of public transportation and bike rentals, you can confidently explore Savannah without a car.
However, if you wish to embark on day trips to nearby cities or explore the region’s natural beauty, renting a car can enhance your Savannah adventure. It allows you to venture beyond the city limits and discover the hidden gems of the southeastern United States.
Remember to consider factors such as itinerary flexibility, parking and traffic, budget, and group size when making your decision. By weighing these factors and assessing your specific needs, you can make an informed choice that maximizes your enjoyment of Savannah and its surrounding areas.
So, whether you choose to immerse yourself in the historic charm of Savannah’s streets on foot or hit the road for unforgettable day trips, your Savannah adventure awaits!
