Savannah’s charm extends far beyond its famous squares and moss-draped oaks. With full-day tours, you can learn about the city’s historic ambiance or explore its role in film and television. Savannah’s compact size and walkable districts make private guided tours especially appealing—they save time and ensure you don’t miss key sights, all while tailoring the experience to your interests. Whether you’re a history buff, a film fan, or simply seeking a personalized introduction to the city, these tours deliver a memorable day out. Plus, venturing outside the city limits to Tybee Island offers a scenic escape with lighthouse views and coastal beauty.
To help you choose the perfect day in Savannah, we’ve selected two top-rated private tours. Each offers a different way to experience the city’s character and scenery, with options for historical insight or the magic of movie locations. Read on to find the best fit for your interests and travel style.
Quick Overview
Below, you’ll find two standout full-day private tours. The first is a customizable Savannah VIP Tour that covers the historic district, scenic neighborhoods, and Tybee Island. The second is a Savannah Film Locations Tour, ideal for movie enthusiasts eager to see where their favorite scenes were shot. Both tours are highly rated and offer a full seven hours of exploration, so you can enjoy Savannah at a relaxed and personalized pace.
1. Savannah VIP Tour: Private Full-Day Tour
Maximize your time in Savannah with this private full-day tour that’s fully customizable. For around $280 per person, you gain access to a knowledgeable guide who will tailor the experience to your interests. This tour includes highlights like the Savannah Historic District, the Victorian District, and Tybee Island with its iconic lighthouse. The itinerary is designed to efficiently cover significant landmarks and scenic neighborhoods, saving you the hassle of navigating on your own.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility. You can choose to focus more on historic squares, architectural sights, or coastal scenery. It includes stops at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, a stunning 19th-century Roman Catholic cathedral, and the charming Isle of Hope. The tour also offers a stop for lunch (cost not included), so you can savor local flavors without rushing. Reviews praise the guide’s personable approach and deep knowledge, with many guests saying it exceeded their expectations. The tour operates at a comfortable pace, allowing for plenty of photo opportunities and short strolls.
Bottom Line: This private, fully customizable tour is ideal for travelers who want in-depth engagement with Savannah’s sights and a personal touch. It’s especially well-suited for those who want to include Tybee Island or explore specific neighborhoods.
2. Full Day Private Tour of Savannah Film Locations
For around $350 per person, this full-day tour appeals to film fans eager to see Savannah’s role in Hollywood. Spanning approximately seven hours, the tour takes you to iconic filming sites like Chippewa Square (the Forrest Gump bus stop), Monterey Square (from Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil), and the River Street Market Place (featured in Ozark). You’ll also visit the Darling’s Home from Lady and the Tramp and the streets that evoke 1930s New Orleans, adding a cinematic flair to your day.
What makes this tour special is its focus on Savannah’s Hollywood credentials. The guide walks you through the city’s most recognizable scenes, often with visual aids to help connect the dots. Passengers appreciate the comfortable pace and the chance to see where some of their favorite movies and TV shows were filmed. The tour emphasizes the city’s versatile scenery, showing both historic districts and modern filming locations.
Bottom Line: Perfect for movie lovers, this film location tour combines sightseeing with entertainment, making it a fun, relaxed way to see Savannah through a different lens.
How to Choose Between These Tours
When deciding between a Savannah VIP Tour and a Film Locations Tour, think about your interests and travel style. If you prefer a flexible, personalized experience with options to explore beyond the city, the VIP Tour (more details here) is a strong choice. It’s especially suited for those who want to visit Tybee Island and enjoy tailored stops.
On the other hand, if you’re a cinephile eager to walk in the footsteps of movie characters and see iconic filming sites, the Film Locations Tour (more details here) offers a fun, themed adventure. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy pop culture and want a narrative-driven sightseeing day.
Consider your budget—while both are private and around 7 hours long, the film tour is slightly more expensive. Also, think about whether you want a day focused on historic architecture and scenery or one centered on movies and TV shows.
Booking early is recommended for both, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time slot and ensure a personalized experience.
Final Thoughts
Savannah offers a range of full-day private tour options that cater to different interests. Whether you choose the personalized Savannah VIP Tour to explore the city and Tybee Island at your own pace, or the Film Locations Tour to see where Hollywood found inspiration, each provides a rich, relaxed way to enjoy Savannah’s many facets.
For history and scenic neighborhoods, the VIP Tour is an excellent choice. For pop culture and movie moments, the Film Locations Tour is a fun and unique way to experience the city. Both tours offer detailed, well-reviewed experiences that can turn a single day into a memorable adventure.
To make the most of your trip, consider booking these tours early. Each offers a different window into Savannah’s charm—find the one that best matches your interests and get ready for a day to remember.