Savannah, Georgia, is a city that whispers tales of history, romance, and Southern charm. With its cobblestone streets, majestic oak trees draped in Spanish moss, and vibrant culinary scene, it’s a destination that captivates every visitor. But before you can lose yourself in its beauty, you need to get there!
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about arriving in Savannah, whether you choose the convenience of air travel via Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) or the nostalgic journey of Amtrak railways. We’ll cover operational details, transportation options to downtown, and essential tips for a smooth arrival.
Part 1: Arriving by Air – Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV)
Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) is your primary air gateway to the region. Located just 12 miles northwest of Savannah’s historic downtown, it’s a conveniently sized airport that rarely feels overwhelming.
Airport Overview (SAV):
- Official Name: Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport
- Airport Code: SAV
- Location: 400 Airways Ave, Savannah, GA 31408
- Major Airlines Served: Delta, American, United, Southwest, JetBlue, Allegiant, Breeze Airways, Avelo Airlines, Sun Country Airlines.
- Facilities: SAV offers a modern, efficient terminal with a variety of dining options (from fast food to sit-down restaurants), gift shops, rental car counters, and free Wi-Fi. It’s known for its friendly staff and relatively quick processing times.
Getting from SAV Airport to Downtown Savannah:
Once your flight lands, you have several reliable options to reach the heart of Savannah’s Historic District.
| Transport Type | Estimated Cost (to Downtown) | Estimated Travel Time | Key Advantages | Key Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rental Car | ~$50-100+ per day | 20-30 minutes | Freedom to explore beyond downtown, convenient for day trips | Parking can be expensive/challenging in the Historic District, not necessary if staying downtown |
| Taxi | ~$30-40 | 20-30 minutes | Direct, no waiting, professional drivers | Can be more expensive than ride-shares, depends on availability |
| Ride-Share (Uber/Lyft) | ~$25-35 | 20-30 minutes | Convenient, typically cheaper than taxis, easy booking via app | Surge pricing during peak times, less predictable availability than taxis |
| CAT Bus (Route 100X) | $1.50 (exact change) | 30-45 minutes | Most affordable option, direct to downtown transfer station | Limited luggage space, fixed schedule, may require a transfer to reach specific hotels |
| Private Shuttle Services | ~$35-60 | 25-35 minutes | Door-to-door service, pre-booked convenience, comfortable | Higher cost than public transit, may involve sharing with others |
Pro Tip for CAT Bus: The Route 100X Airport Express connects SAV directly to the Joe Murray Rivers, Jr. Intermodal Transit Center in downtown Savannah. From there, you can easily walk or transfer to other CAT bus routes that serve various parts of the Historic District. Check the Chatham Area Transit (CAT) website for the latest schedules and route maps.
Part 2: Arriving by Rail – Savannah Amtrak Station
For a more scenic and relaxed journey, arriving by Amtrak in Savannah offers a charming alternative. The Savannah Amtrak station is a historic building itself, dating back to 1902, and provides a unique first impression of the city.
Amtrak Overview (SAV):
- Station Name: Savannah Amtrak Station
- Station Code: SAV
- Location: 2611 Seaboard Coastline Dr, Savannah, GA 31401 (approximately 3 miles west of downtown)
- Routes Served:
- Silver Meteor: Connects New York City and Miami, serving major cities along the East Coast.
- Silver Star: Also connects New York City and Miami, with a slightly different route through the Southeast.
- Palmetto: A regional train connecting New York City and Savannah.
- Facilities: The station offers a waiting area, restrooms, ticketing services, and vending machines. It’s a smaller station, so don’t expect extensive dining or shopping options.
Getting from Amtrak Station to Downtown Savannah:
While closer to downtown than the airport, the Amtrak station is still a bit too far to walk comfortably with luggage. Here are your best options:
| Transport Type | Estimated Cost (to Downtown) | Estimated Travel Time | Key Advantages | Key Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | ~$15-20 | 10-15 minutes | Quick, direct, usually available when trains arrive | Can be slightly more expensive, depends on availability immediately after train arrival |
| Ride-Share (Uber/Lyft) | ~$10-18 | 10-15 minutes | Convenient, typically good value, easy booking via app | Surge pricing during peak times, depends on driver availability |
| CAT Bus (Various Routes) | $1.50 (exact change) | 20-30 minutes | Extremely affordable, connects to downtown routes | Fixed schedule, may require a transfer, limited luggage space, not as frequent as airport routes |
| On-Demand Shuttles | ~$20-30 | 15-20 minutes | Pre-booked convenience, direct to hotel | Higher cost, may require advance booking |
Pro Tip for CAT Bus at Amtrak: Several CAT bus routes serve the Amtrak station (e.g., Route 14, Route 28, depending on current schedules). These can take you directly into different parts of the Historic District or to the Joe Murray Rivers, Jr. Intermodal Transit Center for transfers. Check the Chatham Area Transit (CAT) website or use a routing app like Google Maps for the most current information.
Choosing Your Arrival Mode: Airport vs. Amtrak
- Speed & Convenience: Air travel is generally faster for long distances, especially if you’re coming from outside the Southeast. SAV is a user-friendly airport.
- Cost: While airfare can fluctuate wildly, Amtrak tickets can sometimes be more competitive, especially if booked in advance or for shorter regional trips. Public transit from both is incredibly affordable.
- Experience: Amtrak offers a unique, scenic journey without the hassles of airport security. It’s often favored by those who enjoy a more relaxed pace and appreciate the journey as much as the destination.
- Environmental Impact: Train travel generally has a lower carbon footprint per passenger mile compared to flying.
- Luggage: Amtrak has more generous luggage policies than most airlines, making it ideal for those who travel with more bags.
Getting Around Savannah (Once You’ve Arrived)
Once you’re settled in downtown Savannah, you’ll find the city incredibly walkable. Most major attractions, squares, and restaurants are within easy strolling distance.
- Walking: The best way to experience Savannah’s charm.
- CAT Buses: An extensive public bus system perfect for reaching areas slightly outside the Historic District (e.g., Starland District, Forsyth Park from further north).
- Old Town Trolley Tours / Hop-On Hop-Off Tours: Great for sightseeing and also double as a form of transportation to major attractions.
- Taxis & Ride-Shares: Readily available for longer distances or late-night outings.
- Pedicabs: A fun, eco-friendly way to get around shorter distances in the Historic District.
Final Tips for a Smooth Savannah Arrival
- Book in Advance: Especially for flights, popular Amtrak routes (like during peak seasons), and rental cars.
- Check Schedules: Always verify airport, Amtrak, and public transit schedules closer to your travel date, as they can change.
- Have Cash/Small Bills: Useful for tips, smaller purchases, and exact fare on CAT buses.
- Download Apps: Ride-share apps (Uber/Lyft), and the CAT Transit app or a general map app like Google Maps are invaluable.
- Travel Light (if possible): While Amtrak is more forgiving, navigating cobblestones with heavy luggage can be a challenge.
Whether you fly into Savannah’s efficient airport or roll in on the historic rails of Amtrak, getting to this enchanting Southern city is just the beginning of an unforgettable adventure. Prepare for charm, prepare for beauty, and prepare to fall in love with Savannah!
Leave a Reply