Savannah Historic District & Islands Private Guided Tour

Imagine exploring one of the South’s most beloved cities with your own personal guide, walking through shaded squares and then heading out to a coastal island with historic landmarks and breezy beaches. That’s exactly what the Savannah Historic District & Islands Private Guided Tour offers. It’s a well-reviewed experience, rated 5.0 out of 5 by travelers who’ve taken it, and recommended by 97%. For $180 per person, you get a custom, roughly four-hour adventure that balances the city’s storied streets with the natural beauty of Tybee Island.

What we love about this tour is how flexible it seems to be—your guide tailors the experience based on your interests, making it a personalized journey into Savannah’s soul. The inclusion of both the historic district and nearby islands gives a well-rounded snapshot of the area’s history, culture, and coastal charm. Plus, the convenience of private transportation and pickup means you won’t waste precious sightseeing time getting around or trying to find your start point.

While the cost per person might seem steep, remember that this is a private tour with personalized attention—something that can make a big difference in understanding the stories behind Savannah’s beautiful homes and forts. Keep in mind, the tour lasts around four hours, so it’s best suited for travelers who want a deep yet manageable overview without overloading their schedule. If you’re keen on a flexible, informative, and comfortable way to see Savannah and Tybee Island, this tour could be a top choice.

Key Points

• A private, customizable half-day tour blending Savannah’s historic squares with Tybee Island’s lighthouse, fort, and beaches.
• Knowledgeable guides make history and culture come alive through engaging storytelling.
• The tour includes private transportation and a flexible itinerary, tailored to your interests.
• It offers a well-paced itinerary with plenty of opportunities to explore, learn, and enjoy scenic views.
• Excellent reviews highlight friendly guides and a good balance of city and island experiences.
• Price reflects personalized service and includes bottled water, though gratuities are separate.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Discovering Savannah’s Historic District

Your adventure begins in the heart of Savannah’s Historic District, where you’ll stroll through a selection of the city’s famed 22 squares. These green oases are framed by beautiful homes, churches, and quaint inns, all shaded by live oak trees draped in Spanish moss. This setting exudes Southern charm and offers an intimate perspective on Savannah’s past.

Expect about an hour and a half wandering through these shaded squares, absorbing the architecture, and hearing stories about notable buildings and local legends. The tour’s reviews praise guides for their knowledge and storytelling skills. One traveler mentioned, “Great tour and a lot of information. Guide was great and we got to see many sights in Savannah and nearby,” highlighting how informative and personable guides make a lasting difference.

Exploring Tybee Island’s Lighthouse and Museum

Next, your guide takes you to Tybee Island, a barrier island with strategic importance dating back to the 1700s. The highlight here is the lighthouse, built in 1736, which once held the record as the tallest structure in America at 90 feet. Today, it stands as a symbol of maritime history and coastal resilience.

While admission to the lighthouse and museum isn’t included, visiting this lighthouse offers more than just a photo op. It’s a window into the island’s maritime past, and the views from the top afford a sweeping perspective over the Atlantic and the marshes.

Tybee Pier and Pavilion

After the lighthouse, you’ll head to the Tybee Pier and Pavilion, where the seaside resort atmosphere is palpable. It’s perfect for stretching your legs, people-watching, or just enjoying the salt air. This part of the tour lasts about 30 minutes and is free to access, making it an easy and relaxing stop.

Fort Pulaski National Monument

The final leg of your tour takes you to Fort Pulaski, located on Cockspur Island. This well-preserved Civil War fort offers an engaging way to understand military history and the technological advancements that helped Union forces overcome Confederate defenses. The fortress played a pivotal role during the Siege of 1862, effectively closing the port of Savannah.

With included admission, you can explore the ramparts, learn about the Union’s innovative artillery, and imagine the strategic importance of this site at the time. One reviewer called it “a great lesson in history,” emphasizing the educational value of this stop.

Transportation and Flexibility

Transportation is provided in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, allowing you to relax between stops while your guide handles the logistics. The tour is private, meaning only your group is involved—perfect for those wanting a tailored experience without the hustle of larger group tours.

The flexibility is a major plus. Many reviews highlight how guides are willing to adjust the pace or focus on what most interests you. For example, a reviewer shared, “The tour was very informative, and our guide was quite knowledgeable. Our transportation was very nice and clean. Really enjoyed our tour.” This flexibility enhances the overall value, especially if you’re interested in specific landmarks or stories.

Duration and Timing

At around four hours, this tour strikes a balance—deep enough to cover a lot without feeling rushed. The timing also allows for a leisurely experience, with opportunities to ask questions and explore at your own pace.

Cost and Value

While $180 per person might seem high for a half-day tour, consider what’s included: private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a tailored experience. Compared to larger group tours, you’re paying for personalized attention and the convenience of a private vehicle. Many travelers expressed satisfaction with the value, especially given the flexibility and quality of guides.

Authentic Experiences from Other Travelers

Multiple reviews praise the guides’ knowledge, friendliness, and ability to keep things interesting. One said, “Bill is very knowledgeable and provided interesting historical data,” while another mentioned, “Andy was a fantastic guide. He was very personable and knowledgeable.” Clearly, the guiding staff’s expertise shines through.

Travelers also appreciate the chance to see both Savannah’s cityscape and the coastal landscape of Tybee Island. As one reviewer put it, “The tour of Tybee Island was very informative and provided a contrast of the more bustling Old Town Savannah.” This combination offers a well-rounded perspective of the region.

The Sum Up

This private tour is ideal for travelers who want a flexible, insightful introduction to Savannah’s historic district and Tybee Island’s coastal charm. The personalized nature ensures you get the stories and sights that matter most to you, all within a manageable four-hour window.

If you value knowledgeable guides, scenic views, and a chance to customize your experience, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for those who prefer comfort and convenience without sacrificing depth or authenticity. The inclusion of key landmarks like the lighthouse and Fort Pulaski makes it both educational and visually rewarding.

While the price reflects the private, tailored service, many guests feel it’s worth the expense for a memorable and personalized day in Savannah. Whether you’re a history buff, a beach lover, or simply eager to see the city’s highlights with ease, this tour offers a smart way to make the most of your time.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, bottled water, and a flexible itinerary. Admission to Fort Pulaski is included, but not to the lighthouse and museum.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately four hours, giving you enough time to enjoy each stop comfortably.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, guides are willing to tailor the stops and pacing based on your interests, making the experience more personal.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those comfortable walking and standing during the stops.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about a month in advance, as the tour is popular and limited to private groups.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

How steep is the lighthouse climb?
While not specified, the lighthouse is accessible for visitors, but climbing to the top involves some stairs.

Are gratuities included?
No, gratuities are not included and are appreciated for excellent guides.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of city and island highlights, the flexibility, and the knowledgeable guides set this tour apart.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the vehicle is air-conditioned and well-maintained, making travel between stops enjoyable.

By choosing the Savannah Historic District & Islands Private Guided Tour, you’re set for a personalized, insightful, and scenic exploration of this charming region—perfect whether you’re a history lover, a beachcomber, or just eager to experience Savannah’s unique character in comfort.