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An Insider's Guide to Charleston & Savannah

Writer's picture: Shelly MaffiaShelly Maffia

Updated: Jul 16, 2024


Dewberry rooftop bar
IMAGE COURTESY OF THE DEWBERRY

Southern Charm at Its Best


When it comes to southern charm and nostalgia, Charleston and Savannah are two standout destinations. Cobblestone streets lined with historic brick homes, oak-shaded parks with stately statues, and bustling dining districts draw travelers back year after year. Let me guide you through the best of each city for an unforgettable experience.


Customized Itineraries with VBS Travel


Whether you're looking for a seaside getaway or a history-infused excursion, I can create a customized itinerary just for you. If you only need hotel bookings, I've got you covered too!



Need to Know

  • Airports: Charleston International Airport (CHS) and Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV)

  • Transportation: Both cities are walkable in the central areas and have convenient bus systems and free trolleys in the historic districts.

  • Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) offer mild temperatures and beautiful scenery.

  • Ideal Length of Stay: 3-4 days in each city or a week to explore both.

  • Dress Code: Casual for daytime, with smart casual attire for the evenings.


Charleston

street in Charleston lined by historic buildings
IMAGE COURTESY OF THE CHARLESTON PLACE

Where to Stay

  1. The Dewberry Charleston: This hip hotel boasts the city’s highest rooftop with stunning views and craft cocktails. Book with VBS Travel to enjoy exclusive perks like $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast for two, upgrades, and extended check-in/out.

  2. The Charleston Place: A blend of traditional luxury and central location, with an on-site spa and dining experiences. VBS Travel perks include $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast for two, and upgrades.

  3. Zero George Street Hotel: A charming boutique hotel with refined rooms in a historic 1800s property. Enjoy VIP perks like $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast for two, upgrades, and extended check-in/out.

  4. Wentworth Mansion: An opulent historic gem with an upscale restaurant. Benefit from hotel credit, daily breakfast for two, upgrades, and extended check-in/out when booked through VBS Travel.



What to Do

Explore Charleston City Market, a historic downtown market filled with local artist stalls, food vendors, and live music on weekends. Stroll along King Street for shopping, dining, and bars. Art enthusiasts can visit the Gibbes Museum of Art or the Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art. History buffs will enjoy sites like Fort Sumter, Middleton Place, the Nathaniel Russell House, and the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon. For a deeper dive into Charleston’s history, visit McLeod Plantation Historic Site.


2 bikes next to a  charming brick building
COURTESY OF ZERO GEORGE STREET HOTEL

Where to Eat

From coffee shops to fine dining, Charleston has it all. For coffee, try Kudu Coffee and Craft Beer or Harken. For a quick bite, visit Caviar & Bananas. Enjoy seafood at Fleet Landing or upscale southern fare at Husk. For fine dining, head to FIG or Halls Chophouse. For home-cooked southern food, visit Bertha’s Kitchen or Hannibal’s Soul Kitchen.


Table full of menu items from Dewberry
IMAGE COURTESY OF THE DEWBERRY


Savannah

trees at preserved antebellum mansion

Where to Stay

  1. Thompson Savannah: This riverfront property features designer rooms, a sleek pool, and a trendy rooftop bar. Book through VBS Travel for Hyatt Privé partner perks like hotel credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast for two, upgrades, and extended check-in/out.

  2. Hyatt Regency Savannah: Enjoy contemporary rooms in a prime riverfront location. Hyatt Privé perks include hotel credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast for two, upgrades, and extended check-in/out.

  3. Andaz Savannah: A designer hotel with a relaxing pool and terrace. Book through VBS Travel for Hyatt Privé perks.

  4. Hotel Bardo: This 1800s manor, formerly The Mansion on Forsyth Park, offers park views and a modern aesthetic. Enjoy Leading Hotels of the World perks like daily breakfast for two, upgrades, and extended check-in/out.




What to Do

Walk through Forsyth Park, explore the historic district, and visit landmarks like the First African Baptist Church and the Birthplace of Juliette Gordon Low. Take a ghost tour or enjoy the Savannah River with a private boat ride or dinner cruise. For beachgoers, Tybee Island is a short drive away. Art lovers should visit Telfair Museums, and literature fans can explore Bonaventure Cemetery, featured in “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.”


river boat docked in Savannah

Where to Eat

Savannah offers a variety of dining options, from coffee shops to gourmet restaurants. For coffee, visit The Coffee Fox, The Gallery Espresso, or Mirabelle. For riverfront dining, try Vic's On the River or Huey’s. For upscale dining, book a table at The Olde Pink House, Elizabeth on 37th, The Grey, or Alligator Soul Restaurant.


Bar at Andaz Savannah
COURTESY OF ANDAZ SAVANNAH

Ready to Plan Your Trip?

Whether you're heading to Charleston, Savannah, or any other destination, contact Vacations by Shelly to plan your next vacation with exclusive perks and a personalized experience tailored just for you.



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