Savannah: Old Town Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Savannah and want to see the city without the hassle of constant planning, the Old Town Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour might be just what you need. This tour promises a relaxed way to soak up Savannah’s charm, with the flexibility to jump off at points of interest and hop back on when you’re ready.

With a high rating of 4.7 out of 5 from over 1,500 reviews, it’s clear that many visitors find it a worthwhile experience.

Two features stand out: the knowledgeable, humorous guides who make history fun and the extensive route covering over 100 points of interest. A potential consideration is the limited evening hours, with stops ending around 5 or 7 pm, which might impact those wanting to dine later or explore more at night.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate storytelling, want to maximize their sightseeing in a short time, and prefer a relaxed, guided approach to discovering Savannah’s treasures.

This experience made our article of Our Picks For The 10 Best Tours & Things To Do In Savannah.

Key Points

• Flexible hop-on, hop-off format allows you to explore at your own pace.
• Engaging guides provide humorous anecdotes and detailed historical insights.
• Convenient stops near major attractions like Forsyth Park and River Street.
• Over 100 points of interest are included, with a route that highlights Savannah’s best.
• Two-day tickets give you more time to explore without rushing.
• Good value for money considering the extensive coverage and guided narration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Savannah Trolley Experience

Trying to see Savannah’s historic districts, squares, and landmarks in a single day can be overwhelming. The Old Town Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley offers a practical solution: a leisurely ride through the city with the option to explore further at your own pace. For just $45 per person, you get a live narrated tour that is both informative and amusing.

What we love about this experience is the personal touch from guides who aren’t just reading from a script but really know their stuff — many reviews mention guides like Red and Cindy who make history come alive with humor and personal stories. The route covers over 15 stops, including key sights like Reynolds Square, City Market, and the historic Juliette Gordon Low District. It’s a great way to orient yourself, especially if it’s your first visit.

One noteworthy aspect is the extensive route that encompasses more than 100 points of interest. Plus, the ability to hop on and off at any stop makes it ideal for those who want to customize their day, whether that means visiting the Savannah History Museum or relaxing in Forsyth Park.

A minor consideration is the limited operating hours, with stops usually ending around 5 pm, which might leave some wanting more evening options. Still, the two-day ticket option provides enough flexibility for a thorough exploration without feeling rushed. This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy storytelling, want a rundown, and value the convenience of guided transportation.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour begins at the Savannah Visitor Center on MLK Boulevard, a convenient spot with free parking, according to reviews. From here, you’ll board a charming trolley with open-air windows, perfect for viewing the city’s architecture and tree-lined avenues. The First stop often is Ellis Square, where you can see the statue of John Wesley. The stops are spaced for convenience, roughly every 20 minutes, making it easy to plan your day.

Major Stops and Sights

• Forsyth Park: One of Savannah’s most iconic spots, famous for the fountain and lush lawns, perfect for a quick photo or a picnic break.
• Juliette Gordon Low Historic District: Home to the Girl Scout founder’s birthplace, this area offers beautiful historic homes and gardens.
• River Street: Overlooking the river, this bustling area is lined with shops, cafes, and bars, ideal for a leisurely stroll and people watching.
• Reynolds Square: Known for its statue of John Wesley and nearby historic buildings, this square anchors the city’s early days.

More Great Tours Nearby

Narration and Guides

The guides are a major highlight. They narrate with a blend of trivia, humor, and facts, which keeps the tour lively. Multiple reviews praise guides like Rüben, Cindy, Irish, and Red, who are not only knowledgeable but add personality and humor. One reviewer notes, “The guides were all very well informed, one in particular had a really good sense of humor,” while another mentions, “Red was an awesome guide. Loved that you can hop off and hop on as desired.”

Opportunities to Explore

You’ll have the option to hop off at any stop—whether to explore the historic homes, visit the Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens, or simply enjoy a park. The tour’s flexibility means that you can spend more time at places that catch your interest, making it ideal for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike.

The Stops’ Drawbacks

Some reviews mention that trolley spaces fill up quickly, especially during peak times, and waiting for the next trolley can take a few minutes. Also, the limited evening hours may restrict exploration if you prefer to dine or visit attractions later in the day. The stop at River Street is lively but can get crowded, and some found the no-smoking policy and restrictions on pets or luggage** helpful for safety and comfort.

The Value of the Tour

For $45, the tour offers excellent value, especially given the extensive route and live narration. With a two-day ticket, the experience becomes even more worthwhile, allowing you to see more at a relaxed pace. The inclusion of discount coupons for attractions and restaurants adds extra savings, making it a good investment for your Savannah visit.

Many reviewers highlight the professionalism and friendliness of guides, frequently mentioning how guides like Miss Q, Cindy, and Irish go above and beyond to make the tour engaging. Several also note that the trolleys are clean and comfortable, with prompt service and short wait times for the next trolley.

Tips for Making the Most of It

• Arrive early or plan your day around the limited hours to maximize your sightseeing.
• Bring a printed or mobile voucher, which are both accepted.
• Use the provided map and schedule to plan your stops.
• Consider the two-day ticket if you want to explore more leisurely.
• Be prepared for some walking at stops of interest, especially in historic districts.

Authentic Experiences and Tips From Reviews

One traveler shared, “The guides were all very well informed, one in particular had a really good sense of humor,” emphasizing the importance of engaging narration. Another noted, “The trolley stops sometimes hard to find or distinguish from buses,” suggesting that travelers should stay attentive at stops.

Many reviews mentioned how guides make history fun and share local secrets, enhancing the experience beyond just sightseeing. The opportunity to see Savannah’s architecture, squares, and key landmarks from a comfortable trolley makes for an ideal overview, especially for first-time visitors.

Some travelers appreciated the convenience of free parking at the start, reducing the hassle of city parking fees, and the frequent trolley intervals (roughly every 15–20 minutes) ensure minimal waiting time.

The Sum Up

The Savannah: Old Town Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to get acquainted with Georgia’s oldest city. It provides a combination of comfort, flexibility, and engaging storytelling that appeals especially to first-time visitors or those wanting a rundown without the stress of navigation.

The knowledgeable guides, combined with the scenic routes and over 100 points of interest, make this tour a solid investment for a day or two in Savannah. The two-day ticket maximizes value, allowing you to explore both the historic districts and local neighborhoods at a relaxed pace. The friendly narration and lively stops will appeal to history buffs, families, and anyone looking for a fun, informative experience.

While the limited evening hours and occasional crowded stops** might be a drawback for some, the overall positive reviews and high ratings suggest that this tour delivers on its promise of a memorable Savannah experience. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want a guided, flexible, and enjoyable way to see what makes Savannah so special.

FAQ

How many stops are included on the tour?
The tour features 15 stops, conveniently located near many of Savannah’s key attractions and historic sites.

Is the tour suitable for limited mobility visitors?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for travelers with mobility concerns to enjoy Savannah.

Can I buy a ticket on the day of the tour?
Yes, you can redeem your voucher at the ticket depot, and buses pick up approximately every 20 minutes, so last-minute bookings are feasible.

What is included in the tour?
Your ticket includes a hop-on hop-off all-day narrated tour with 15 stops, allowing you to see over 100 points of interest at your own pace.

Are there discounts or coupons included?
Yes, the tour provides discount coupons for multiple attractions and dining options around Savannah.

What are the tour hours?
Typically, the stops run until 5:00 pm or 7:00 pm, but this may vary — especially during special events like the Martin Luther King Parade, when tours start later at 1:00 pm.

Is it possible to do a single-day ticket?
Yes, you can choose a 1-day ticket, but many reviews suggest that a 2-day pass offers better value for thorough exploration.

Are pets allowed on the trolley?
No, pets are not permitted on the tour.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a first-timer, or someone who simply wants to enjoy Savannah’s scenic beauty with minimal fuss, this trolley tour is worth considering. It’s a friendly, flexible way to get a true feel for Georgia’s first city without missing out on its most beloved sights.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby