If you’ve got a layover in Savannah, don’t let it go to waste sitting at SAV. The city, in United States, is within easy reach — roughly 60 minutes by local transport. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
A few things to sort out before you leave SAV:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for United States. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Savannah takes about 60 minutes by local transport. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from SAV to Savannah
From SAV, the local transport gets you to Savannah in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at SAV may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Savannah’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Savannah layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in Savannah, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
For a layover visit to Savannah, we’d suggest Historic River Street and Forsyth Park. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds. Nice green space that’s easy to enjoy without a tight schedule.
If you’d rather stay inside SAV — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- SAV Airport Art & History Exhibits
- River Street Market Place (Airport)
Eating Well on a Savannah Layover
For food in Savannah, local travelers recommend The Olde Pink House Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room is another popular pick.
Back at SAV, The Great American Bagel Bakery is the go-to. Sam Snead’s Tavern rounds out your in-terminal options.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and SAV is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Savannah and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Sleep & Lounge Options at SAV
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at SAV, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Savannah is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Savannah.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.