Charleston, SC to Savannah, GA: An Epic Road Trip Itinerary

Krysti standing in front of a giant oak tree covered in Spanish moss at Magnolia Plantation in Charleston, SC.

Last updated on July 22, 2024 by Krysti

Planning a road trip from Charleston, SC to Savannah, GA? Don’t worry! I’ve got you covered with this ultimate 8-day itinerary!

Steeped in history and Southern charm, Charleston and Savannah are two popular destinations that most definitely deserve a spot at the top of your bucket list.

Located only two hours apart, these sister cities are perfect for a road trip through the Lowcountry.

Not only will you have the opportunity to explore two incredibly historic destinations, but you’ll also have the chance to discover the stunning coastal landscapes, picturesque waterfront towns, and wild, untamed islands that lie in between them.

I’ve had the opportunity to travel along this very coast on several occasions and am always amazed by the incredible scenery I encounter and the historic charm that greets me.

Charleston was my former home and I simply love the atmosphere of Savannah – so I’m very excited to share this itinerary with you!

The guide that I have mapped out below begins in Charleston, travels down the coast of South Carolina, makes a quick pit stop on Hilton Head Island, and ends in Savannah. It’s the perfect mix of sea, sand, city, and history!

So, without further ado, let’s hit the road and discover the ultimate Charleston to Savannah itinerary!

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit Charleston & Savannah

Rainbow Row houses painted pink, purple, and green.

Rainbow Row in Charleston, South Carolina.

While Charleston and Savannah are incredible destinations year-round, I recommend visiting these sister cities either in spring or late fall.

Simply put, this is when you’re most likely to experience the best weather. The temperatures during both of these seasons are mild with minimal rain – so it’s perfect for a road trip.

Spring, in particular, offers especially beautiful scenery with all of the flowers and greenery in bloom.

Although it is worth noting that spring is also peak travel season for the area. So, you’re likely to encounter larger crowds and higher prices.

If you wish to avoid this, you can instead travel during the end of fall, in November. While this is technically the final month of hurricane season, November typically offers great weather with fewer crowds and lower prices.

Meanwhile, summer is an ideal time to visit, if you prefer more of a beachy getaway. Just keep in mind that the weather can be quite hot, humid, and unpredictable when it comes to the rain.

And finally, we have winter – which is perfect, if you’re traveling on a budget. Sure, the temperatures will be a bit cooler, but you’ll find there are significantly fewer crowds and much more affordable prices.

Hurricane Season in Charleston & Savannah

It’s important to note that Charleston and Savannah both experience hurricane seasons. This technically runs from June to November. However, the most active months for hurricanes in the area are August and September.

While the cities rarely get hit by storms directly, they are known to experience substantial flooding, especially in the downtown areas. When this happens, road closures are common, and businesses may temporarily shut down.

If you plan to travel during the hurricane season, you’ll want to keep an eye on the weather and be flexible with your plans in the event of a storm. It may also be worth it to purchase travel insurance, especially if you intend to visit Charleston and Savannah in August or September.

Logistics of Your Trip to Charleston & Savannah

View of Savannah River at night from a rooftop bar with Talmadge Bridge in the background.

View of Savannah River at night in Savannah, Georgia.

For the purposes of this itinerary, I’ve mapped out an 8-day road trip from Charleston, SC to Savannah, GA. However, please feel free to shorten or extend this as you see fit.

All of the destinations mentioned are home to a wide variety of attractions. So, if you have more time to spare, you can easily fill your days with additional activities – or even add on a few more stops.

I’ve included below a list of additional destinations between Charleston and Savannah that you can check out.

And, on the flip side of that, if you don’t have as much time, you can shorten your trip. There are several ways to do this, but I recommend condensing your Charleston itinerary, as you have a bit more wiggle room there.

It’s also worth noting that this itinerary begins in Charleston and travels down to Savannah. However, it’s completely possible to do it in reverse, if that’s easier for you!

Pro Tip: If you plan to fly in and rent a car, make sure to book your rental with a company that allows you to pick up and drop off at different locations. For example, Budget Car Rental will let you pick up your car at the Charleston Airport and then return it at the Savannah Airport. Doing this will save you so much time and hassle!

Map of Charleston & Savannah

To help you plan out your Charleston and Savannah trip, here’s a map overview of all the destinations mentioned in this itinerary.

Map of the destinations mentioned in this Charleston, SC to Savannah, GA road trip itinerary.

If you’d like to view an interactive version of this map, click here!

Charleston, SC to Savannah, GA: An Overview

Don’t have time to read the article in full? Here’s a quick recap of my recommendations for a Charleston to Savannah road trip itinerary.

Day 1 – Charleston: Explore downtown Charleston & the waterfront.
Day 2 – Charleston: Take a ferry over to Fort Sumter & join a food tour.
Day 3 – Charleston: Visit a plantation & discover Mount Pleasant.
Day 4 – Charleston: Go beach hopping or explore the swamplands of Charleston.
Day 5 – Hilton Head Island: Head to the beach or visit Harbor Town & Shelter Cove.
Day 6 – Savannah: Explore the historic district & join a ghost tour.
Day 7 – Savannah: Take a day trip out to Tybee Island.
Day 8 – Savannah: Visit the city’s cemeteries & discover River Street.

Charleston, SC to Savannah, GA: Explained

On that note, let’s dive right in and discuss in detail everything you need to know to plan a Charleston to Savannah drive. I’ve included a wide variety of suggested activities – so not matter what your interests are, you should have no problem building your own perfect itinerary.

Stop 1: Charleston, SC – 4 Days

Pineapple Fountain in Charleston, SC at sunset.

The Pineapple Fountain in Charleston, South Carolina.

Nicknamed the “Holy City,” Charleston is a centuries-old city known for its vibrant and culturally rich atmosphere.

Here, you’ll find a plethora of historic buildings (and churches – hence the nickname), as well as picturesque cobblestone streets, lively local markets, and unforgettable coastal views.

While 4 days may seem like a lot of time to spend here, Charleston offers much to be discovered and explored. So, my advice is to focus on those activities that most interest you and build up your daily schedule from there.

Attractions can be a bit spread out but also clustered together. So, be strategic about your plans and group activities together according to location. This will really save you a lot of time!

Best Things to Do in Charleston

A white boat traveling through a swamp covered in green moss with trees sticking up out of the water.

Cypress Gardens near Charleston, South Carolina.

Explore Downtown Charleston: Downtown Charleston is home to a number of popular attractions, including Rainbow Row, King Street, and the Charleston City Market. There are also several museums that you can visit, such as the Charleston Museum, the International African American Museum, the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, and the Nathaniel Russell House.
Enjoy the Views From the Waterfront: Also located in the downtown area, the Joe Riley Waterfront Park offers incredible views of the harbor. This is also where you’ll find the city’s iconic Pineapple Fountain.
Ride the Ferry Out to Fort Sumter: Dating back to 1829, Fort Sumter is where the first shots of the American Civil War were fired. Now preserved as a National Historical Park, the fort is open to visitors and accessible via a local ferry.
Visit the Area’s Historical Plantations: Unfortunately, Charleston has a dark history when it comes to its involvement with slavery. As such, the city is home to several slave plantations that have since been preserved for historical purposes. While these destinations are beautiful, they are also meant to be educational as they shed light on the lives of the slaves who once lived and worked here. Some of the most notable plantations near Charleston include Magnolia, Middleton Place, and Boone Hall.
Go Beach Hopping: Given Charleston’s location along the coast, the city offers easy access to a variety of nearby beaches. While Folly Beach is the closest and most popular, other great beaches can be found on Sullivan’s Island, Kiawah Island, Edisto Island, and Isle of Palms.
Join a Walking Tour: There are a variety of walking tours that you can take advantage of – each with its own focus and appeal. I personally enjoy the ghost tours and food tours, but there are also historical tours, architectural tours, and pub crawls.
Venture Out to the Swamps: If you travel far enough outside of the city, you’ll have the opportunity to experience Charleston’s swamps (which are surprisingly beautiful). Some of the most popular destinations include Cypress Gardens (where The Notebook was filmed), Caw Caw Interpretive Center, and the Audubon Garden at Magnolia Plantation. *Side Note: Keep a lookout for alligators – they tend to hang out in the swamps!
Discover Mount Pleasant: Situated just east of Charleston lies the charming town of Mount Pleasant. Here you’ll find a variety of attractions, including Patriot’s Point, Shem Creek, and the Arthur Ravenel Bridge. It’s, without a doubt, one of the best day trips from Charleston!

Where to Stay In Charleston

The best place to stay, in my opinion, is right in the heart of the city in downtown Charleston.

Here, you’ll be offered easy access to just about everything, including some of the city’s best attractions, most famous restaurants, and oldest architecture.

This is especially true if you opt to stay in the historic district – where, as an added bonus, just about everything is within walking distance.

Aside from this, a few other areas worth mentioning include:

Mount Pleasant: A calmer, less crowded alternative to the downtown area, Mount Pleasant is a suburban residential community that offers waterfront resorts and budget-friendly hotels. While restaurants and bars are a bit limited here, you will have easier access to some of the city’s best beaches.
West Ashley: Situated just across the Ashley River, West Ashley is only a few minutes drive from downtown Charleston. This makes for an easy commute if you’re looking to stay outside of the city. The area is known to offer affordable accommodations, as well as a variety of restaurants and local attractions.
Folly Beach: Perfect for those in search of a beach getaway, Folly Beach is home to a handful of beachfront hotels and a wide variety of rental properties. Although the beach is the main draw here, the town is also known for its small restaurants, local bars, and boutique stores.
North Charleston: A budget-friendly alternative to downtown Charleston, North Charleston offers a plethora of affordable accommodations. While attractions are a bit limited here, there are plenty of restaurants, bars, and shopping centers for you to explore.

For a more detailed guide to Charleston, be sure to check out my 4 day itinerary for Charleston, SC!

Stop 2: Hilton Head Island, SC – 1 Day

Coligny Beach on Hilton Head Island in South Carolina.

Coligny Beach on Hilton Head Island at sunset.

Situated about 2 hours away from Charleston lies Hilton Head Island, an incredible beach getaway that simply shouldn’t be missed.

Known for its white sandy shores, delectable seafood, world-class golfing, and stunning natural scenery, the island is one of the most popular in South Carolina.

In fact, it’s been named the best island in the United States by Conde Nast several years in a row!

While you’ll only have one day to explore here, it’s still plenty of time to get a feel for the island and it’s welcoming community.

My recommendation is to pick one main activity that you’re interested in and focus on that. Whether it’s the beaches, the golf courses, or the nature preserves, you’re sure to have a great time!

Best Things to Do in Hilton Head Island

Aerial view of Harbour Town on Hilton Head Island with boats in the water.

Aerial view of Harbour Town on Hilton Head Island. Photo by Shep McAllister via Unsplash.

Spend a Day at the Beach: Hilton Head is home to a number of beaches – so your options here really are endless. That being said, some of the most popular sandy destinations include Coligny Beach, Folly Field Beach Park, and Driessen Beach (also known as Bradley Beach).
Take in the Views From Harbor Town: As the island’s most prominent marina, Harbor Town is well worth a visit. Here, you’ll find several shops, dining establishments, cruise tours, and the island’s iconic candy cane lighthouse.
Explore the Sea Pines Forest Preserve: Spanning more than 600 acres of marshland and maritime forest, this preserve is home to an impressive array of wildlife. It also offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, biking, horseback riding, and boating.
Shop Til You Drop at Shelter Cove Towne Centre: As the island’s premier shopping destination, Shelter Cove is a great place to check out if you’re in search of souvenirs. It’s also home to several restaurants and hosts a variety of lively events throughout the year.
Hit Up the Golf Course: Hilton Head Island is home to so many golf courses that some people simply refer to it as the “Golf Island.” Some of the most notable and famous courses here include Harbour Town Golf Links, Atlantic Dunes, and Heron Point.

Where to Stay in Hilton Head Island

If you plan to spend most of your time at the beach, then I highly recommend staying near Coligny.

Not only will you have easy access to the island’s shoreline, but you’ll also have a variety of accommodations to choose from. In fact, most of the oceanfront properties on the island are located nearby.

And, of course, the area is home to a number of shops and restaurants. So, you’ll always have something to do, even if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Apart from this, a few other popular areas to stay include:

Sea Pines: Situated just down the road from Coligny, Sea Pines is a great place to stay if you’re looking for a more calm, laid-back atmosphere. The area also offers convenient access to a variety of outdoor activities, as well as, the Sea Pines Forest Preserve.
Harbour Town: Perfect for those looking for a more luxurious experience, Harbour Town is home to several upscale hotels. You’ll also find a variety of shops and restaurants in the area to keep you entertained.
Shelter Cove: Located near the center of the island, Shelter Cove is a great option if you’re looking for more affordable accommodations. The area is also home to the Shelter Cove Towne Centre and offers easy access to a variety of shops, restaurants, bars, and entertainment.

Stop 3: Savannah, GA – 3 Days

Forsyth Park in Savannah lined with Spanish moss-covered trees.

Forsyth Park in Savannah, Georgia.

From Hilton Head Island, it’s a quick 45-minute drive down to Savannah, the “Hostess City of the South.”

Known for its vibrant history, well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and moss-covered trees, Savannah truly is a historic and unforgettable destination.

And luckily for you, you have three full days to discover the city and all of its wonderful attractions.

For this stop in Savannah, I recommend spending two days in the city and one day on Tybee Island. This will allow you the opportunity to explore both the urban and coastal sides of Georgia.

Best Thing to Do in Savannah

Historic brick building on River Street in Savannah.

River Street in Savannah, Georgia.

Explore the Historic District: Situated in downtown Savannah, the historic district is the heart and soul of the city. Here, you’ll find several notable attractions including Forsyth Park, Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, Chippewa Square, the Mercer Williams House, and the American Prohibition Museum. In addition, the area is home to a number of quaint cafes, small shops, and delectable restaurants.
Wander Along River Street: Dating back more than 300 years, River Street is a historic cobble-stoned destination that offers great views of the Savannah River. Once home to several cotton warehouses, the area has since been converted into a lively promenade complete with boutique shops, cozy restaurants, lively breweries, stunning galleries, and riverboat cruises.
Join a Walking Tour: Similar to Charleston, Savannah offers several walking tours that encompass the historic district. While ghost tours are the most popular here, there are also historical tours, food tours, and pub crawls.
Visit the Area’s Historical Cemeteries: Savannah is known for its cemeteries, which are not only historic but also quite beautiful. Visitors are welcome to check out these cemeteries – and even join a guided tour of them. A few of the most notable include Bonaventure Cemetery, Colonial Park Cemetery, and Laurel Grove Cemetery.
Take a Day Trip to Tybee Island: Located about thirty minutes outside of the city, Tybee Island is the most popular day trip destination from Savannah. Here, you’ll find white sandy beaches, historical landmarks, and a plethora of unforgettable seafood restaurants.

Where to Stay in Savannah

I highly recommend staying in downtown Savannah – either along River Street or further inland in the historic district.

Not only will you have plenty of accommodation options to choose from, but you’ll also have very easy access to the city’s historical attractions, restaurants, shops, cafes, and bars.

In fact, chances are, you’ll be within walking distance of most, if not all of these amenities.

And for those who are interested in the spookier side of Savannah, this is where you’ll find the haunted hotels and house rentals – if you’re brave enough to spend the night with a few ghosts, that is.

Aside from this, other popular places to stay include:

Market City: Although technically located in the historic district, Market City still deserves its own mention. Known as a foodie destination, this area is home to the city’s best restaurants and markets. You’ll also find a variety of accommodation options nearby.
Garden City: Situated closer to the airport, Garden City is a bit removed from downtown Savannah. However, it does offer more affordable accommodations with significantly fewer crowds. It’s an ideal spot, especially if you have an early flight to catch when you depart Savannah.
Tybee Island: If you’d rather spend all your time at the beach, then consider staying on Tybee Island. You’ll still have access to all of the amenities you could possibly need. And, Savannah is just a short drive away – so, you can easily explore the city and its many attractions.

More Than 8 Days in Charleston & Savannah

Krysti standing between two bare trees along the shores of Botany Bay on Edisto Island near Charleston.

Botany Bay Preserve on Edisto Island.

Interested in adjusting this road trip itinerary? Or maybe you’re contemplating a longer stay? If so, consider visiting some of these other popular destinations as well!

SC Barrier Islands: On your way down to Savannah make a few more stops and hit up some of the incredible small islands that lie along the South Carolina coast. While there are several for you to choose from, some of the most popular include Edisto Island, Seabrook Island, and Kiawah Island.
Beaufort: Take a day to explore the historical city of Beaufort. Known for its small-town vibes and antebellum architecture, this destination is basically a smaller (and less crowded) version of Charleston.
Bluffton: Swing by Bluffton as you depart Hilton Head Island and experience Southern hospitality at its finest. Offering a laid-back atmosphere, artsy community, and incredible seafood, this little town is well worth a pit stop.
Charleston Day Trips: Extend your stay in Charleston and head out on a day trip (or two). Popular destinations include Congaree National Park, Myrtle Beach, and Columbia.

Frequently Asked Questions About Travel to Charleston & Savannah

Krysti standing in front of historic homes in Charleston.

Here are my thoughts on some commonly asked questions about traveling from Charleston, SC to Savannah, GA.

How Far Is the Drive From Charleston, SC to Savannah, GA?

The distance between Charleston and Savannah is approximately 108 miles. And it takes about 2 hours to drive – no pit stops included. If you opt to follow the itinerary above and add in a side trip to Hilton Head Island, the drive will take you around 2 hours and 45 minutes in total.

Can You Do a Day Trip From Charleston to Savannah?

Yes, it’s definitely possible to do a day trip from Charleston, SC to Savannah, GA. Just know that you won’t have as much time to explore the city. So, you’ll really want to pick and choose those attractions that most interest you.

How Do You Get From Charleston, SC to Savannah, GA?

While driving is certainly the easiest and most convenient way to travel from Charleston to Savannah, there are other options that you can explore. For example, Amtrak offers direct train services between the two cities daily – for a very affordable price. And, Greyhound has buses that travel between North Charleston and Savannah.

What is There to See Between Savannah & Charleston?

Simply put – there’s a lot to see! The coastline between Charleston and Savannah is home to a number of small barrier islands. Many of which offer incredible views and stunning beaches. Not to mention all the coastal towns and cities that lie nearby. Some of the most popular destinations include Beaufort, Bluffton, Hilton Head Island, Kiawah Island, and Edisto Island.

Which Is Better: Savannah or Charleston?

This question is really hard to answer because Charleston and Savannah are both wonderful cities! They each offer a wealth of historical attractions, natural getaways, unforgettable local cuisine, and that ever-present Southern hospitality. While I highly recommend visiting them both (on a road trip, of course!), that’s not always possible. So which one should you choose? It depends on what you’re looking for. In short, Savannah is a great option for those who prefer to explore a smaller, more laid-back city. Meanwhile, Charleston is ideal for those who would like to visit a bigger, busier city.

Final Thoughts: Charleston, SC to Savannah, GA

So there you have it – my top recommendations for a road trip from Charleston, SC to Savannah, GA! Hopefully, this guide is helpful in planning your own excursion to these two incredible sister cities.

No matter what you decide to do (or where you plan to stop along the way), you’re bound to have an unforgettable time. After all, Charleston and Savannah are two of the most beautiful and historic cities in the United States.