Top 15 Historical Tours In Savannah

Savannah is a city that practically wears its history on its moss-draped trees and cobblestone streets. Its well-preserved architecture, 22 historic squares, and stories of the Civil War make it a perfect backdrop for exploring on foot, bike, or even Segway. We particularly love the Heart of Savannah History Walking Tour for its rundown and the chance to see the “Forrest Gump” filming location.

The Bonaventure Cemetery & Wormsloe Historic Site Tour is a must for those wanting a deeper dive into the city’s antebellum past, with visits to iconic cemeteries and 18th-century ruins.

For a fun, interactive experience, the Guided Savannah Civil War History Walking Tour offers insights into how Savannah was spared during Sherman’s march, preserving its historic charm. And if ghost stories are your thing, the Creepy Crawl Haunted Pub Tour mixes history with a spooky nighttime vibe.

Each of these tours provides a different lens on Savannah’s layered past, making the city’s history accessible and engaging.

Quick Overview

This list includes walking tours, bike rides, Segway adventures, private excursions, and even a haunted pub crawl. Some focus on civil war history (like the Civil War Walking Tour), while others highlight famous landmarks such as Forsyth Park or the Mercer Williams House. For those interested in the city’s African-American history, the Slavery to Freedom Tour offers a powerful perspective.

Planning your visit? Check out the private tour in a vintage Citroën for a stylish, customizable experience or consider the food-focused walking tour for a taste of Savannah’s culinary scene alongside its history.

1. Heart of Savannah History Walking Tour

Discover the most famous landmarks and lesser-known points of interest on this engaging 2-hour walk. Starting in Wright Square, your guide shares stories from the American Revolution and Civil War, along with Savannah tidbits like the “Forrest Gump” filming spot.

You’ll pass the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace Museum, the founder of the Girl Scouts, and visit historic churches. This tour is praised for its informative and humorous guides, with many guests wishing they’d booked it first thing.

At just under $35, it offers excellent value for its rundown of the city’s history and architecture. Since it ends in Forsyth Park, you can easily continue exploring afterward.

Perfect for first-time visitors who want a broad introduction, the Heart of Savannah Tour hits the highlights while sharing plenty of local lore.

Bottom Line: A lively, accessible walk that balances history with storytelling, making it ideal for those new to Savannah or short on time.

2. Bonaventure Cemetery & Wormsloe State Historic Site Tour

For around $74, this 6-hour guided tour takes you beyond the historic district to Bonaventure Cemetery and Wormsloe Historic Site. It’s perfect if you want to see iconic moss-draped oaks, 18th-century ruins, and learn about Savannah’s notable residents like Johnny Mercer and Mary Telfair. The highlight is the drive down Wormsloe’s famous live oak avenue, which is often featured in postcards.

Tours include guided access to the Plantation Tabby Ruins, plus a stop at the Savannah Byrd Cookie Company for tastings—sweetening the deal. Guests consistently praise the guide’s knowledge and the smooth logistics, including hotel pickup.

This tour suits history lovers eager to cover 300 years of Southern history in one day. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a fair amount of walking.

Bottom Line: An immersive, hassle-free way to explore Savannah’s historic cemeteries and colonial sites, ideal for travelers wanting a mix of history and scenic beauty.

3. Genteel and Bard’s Savannah History Walking Tour

This 2-hour walk combines storytelling with audio narration to bring Savannah’s long history to life. It’s a lively stroll through squares, historic homes, and Civil War landmarks, with stories delivered through professional recorded voices and guide commentary.

Starting at Chippewa Square, made famous by “Forrest Gump,” you’ll learn about the city’s founding by James Oglethorpe and its Native American roots.

The Green-Meldrim House and Monterrey Square reveal Civil War history, while the Mercer Williams House connects to the city’s more recent past. Guests love the audio devices for clarity and the flexible timing options.

At about $35 per ticket, it’s a great value for those who prefer structured storytelling with modern tech. The tour is perfect for history buffs wanting an immersive experience with a bit of storytelling magic.

Bottom Line: An engaging, tech-enhanced stroll that offers a deeper understanding of Savannah’s layered past with lively narration.

4. Guided Savannah Civil War History Walking Tour

This 2-hour tour explores Savannah’s involvement in the Civil War, including why the city was one of the few spared Sherman’s march. Your guide takes you to key sites like Sherman’s headquarters and the Antebellum district, providing a narrative filled with strategic and personal stories.

The tour is fully narrated, and many reviews highlight the guide’s remarkable knowledge of Civil War history. It’s a solid choice for history enthusiasts interested in military strategy and specific Savannah sites.

The tour costs $40, offering good value considering the depth of information and the walk through historic streets. Expect to do some walking, but the stories you’ll hear make it worthwhile.

Bottom Line: A detailed, well-rounded Civil War-focused walk that’s ideal for those wanting to understand Savannah’s role in that tumultuous era.

5. Private Tour of Savannah’s Historic/Victorian Districts & Bonaventure Cemetery

Priced at $175 per person, this 3-hour private tour offers a personalized exploration of Savannah. Your guide customizes the itinerary to include breathtaking squares, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, and Bonaventure Cemetery. Hotel pickup makes it convenient, and the private format ensures flexibility.

Guests rave about the guide’s extensive knowledge and ability to tailor the experience—perfect for those seeking in-depth stories about Savannah’s architecture, history, and cultural highlights. Highlights include the Isle of Hope Marina and historic homes, providing a comprehensive look at the city’s heritage.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a customized, intimate experience with a focus on in-depth storytelling.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting a flexible, personalized tour experience with detailed insights into Savannah’s historic districts.

6. 90-Minute Segway History Tour of Savannah

At number 6, this 1.5-hour Segway tour combines fun with history. After a quick safety lesson, you’ll cover parks, squares, and landmarks like the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. Guests mention that Mick, the guide, is knowledgeable and engaging, making it a lively way to see the city’s highlights without tiring out.

The small-group format ensures personalized attention, and the storytelling behind monuments and fountains keeps things interesting.

The tour costs $75, but considering the novelty and efficiency, it offers great value. It’s perfect if you prefer a high-energy, interactive experience and want to see a lot in a short time.

Bottom Line: An exhilarating and practical way to cover Savannah’s key sights with a fun twist.

7. Savannah: Historic District Foodie Walking Tour

For those who love history and food, this 3-hour guided tour combines the two. You’ll visit six local eateries and shops, tasting Savannah’s iconic dishes while learning about the city’s turbulent past and architecture.

The tour provides a local perspective on where to eat and what to see, making it perfect for foodies wanting a taste of Savannah’s culture. It’s priced at $97, and guests enjoy the combination of culinary delights and storytelling.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who want to experience Savannah through its flavors and learn about its history in a relaxed, social setting.

Bottom Line: A delicious way to explore Savannah’s history with a focus on its culinary scene, ideal for food lovers and curious travelers alike.

8. Historical Bike Tour of Savannah and Keep Bikes After Tour

This 2-hour guided bike tour costs $49 and is perfect for active travelers. You’ll cover major sites like Mercer Williams House and the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, with tips from your guide on navigating Savannah’s streets. The bonus is you get to keep your bike afterward, so you can explore independently or revisit favorite spots.

Guests highlight the friendly guide and comfortable bikes, making it a practical and fun way to see the city. The tour suits those who prefer outdoor activity and want to customize their experience after the guided part.

Bottom Line: A flexible, energetic way to see Savannah’s historic sites, especially for those who like biking and independent exploration.

9. Savannah: Old Savannah Tours Historic Overview

This 75-minute trolley ride offers a quick but comprehensive overview of Savannah. Starting at just $35 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to get more than 270 years of history narrated by costumed guides. You’ll pass stately mansions, cobblestone streets, and famous squares, absorbing Savannah’s Southern charm and strategic importance.

It’s ideal for travelers with limited time who want a visual and auditory summary of the city’s story, especially if they prefer sitting down over walking.

Bottom Line: A short, lively introduction for those wanting a broad snapshot of Savannah’s history without much walking.

10. Savannah Slavery to Freedom Guided History Tour

At about $68, this 2.5-hour bus tour focuses on African American history and the journey from slavery to freedom. Led by a Gullah Geechee “truth-teller,” it visits River Street, Johnson Square, and the Second African Baptist Church. Guests praise the powerful storytelling and authentic perspective on the Black experience in Savannah.

It’s perfect for travelers interested in social history and cultural resilience. The tour offers a rare, meaningful view of Savannah’s past, with insights that linger long after the ride ends.

Bottom Line: A compelling, educational experience that deepens understanding of Savannah’s African-American heritage and civil rights evolution.

11. Savannah Historic District Walking Tour

This 3-hour guided walk, costing around $46, takes you through one of the largest National Historic Landmark Districts. Led by a lifelong resident, you’ll see historic homes, military sites, and memorials like the Nathanael Greene monument. The guide’s personal stories make the past feel alive, and the pace allows time to appreciate the details.

Guests highlight the enthusiasm and local knowledge of the host, making it a favorite for those wanting an in-depth, personal touch.

Bottom Line: A detailed, engaging walk that offers a rich sense of Savannah’s social and military history.

12. Historic Downtown Savannah: Guided Segway Tour

This 1-1.5-hour tour at $55 blends fun, mobility, and history. With individual radio receivers, you’ll glide past famous movie sites, squares, and historic mansions. It’s perfect for travelers who want to cover a lot of ground quickly while enjoying the novelty of Segway riding. Many reviews mention the informative narration and scenic views.

It’s suitable for those with a bit of adventure spirit and looking for a lively activity that’s different from typical walking tours.

Bottom Line: A speedy, entertaining way to see major sights with minimal effort, ideal for active explorers.

13. Creepy Crawl Night-Time Haunted Pub Walking Tour

For $30, this 2-hour tour combines history, ghost stories, and nightlife. Starting at Six Pence Pub, your guide shares tales of Savannah’s haunted streets, cemeteries, and quaint pubs. The tour’s highlight is stopping outside Colonial Park Cemetery at night—a perfect setting for spooky stories. Many rave about the guide’s enthralling storytelling and the atmosphere of the city after dark.

Drinks are at your own expense, but the experience is lively and atmospheric. It’s a fun choice for those who love ghost stories and lively nighttime adventures.

Bottom Line: A lively, spooky way to explore Savannah’s haunted past and vibrant pub scene, great for night owls.

14. Private Historic Savannah Tour in a Vintage Citroën

For $165, up to 2 people can enjoy this 1.5-hour private ride in a vintage Citroën. Your guide personalizes the experience, taking you past Forsyth Park, Colonial Cemetery, and the Mercer Williams House. It’s perfect for travelers seeking style and intimacy, with the flexibility to focus on their interests.

Guests love the comfortable ride and the detailed commentary on Savannah’s architecture and history. This tour is especially suited for couples or small groups wanting a romantic, personalized exploration of the city.

Bottom Line: A classy, private way to see Savannah’s highlights in style, suited for those wanting a memorable, tailored experience.

15. Savannah: Historical Bike Tour with Tour Guide

For $39, this 2-hour bike tour offers a hands-on exploration of Savannah’s squares and streets. It features more than 10 stops with stories about the city’s architecture, notable figures, and historic events. Many mention how easy and enjoyable the ride is, and the local recommendations provided afterward. It’s perfect for active travelers who want to combine exercise with learning.

The flat terrain makes it accessible for most, and the guide’s storytelling keeps the ride lively. While it involves some pedaling, it’s a fantastic way to see more of Savannah in less time.

Bottom Line: An engaging, active option for those who prefer cycling and want a detailed narration of Savannah’s history.

How to Choose Your Perfect Savannah Historic Tour

When selecting a tour, think about your interest and fitness level. If you want a broad overview, the Heart of Savannah Walking Tour or the Old Savannah Tours Trolley are practical options. For a more personalized experience, the Private Citroën Tour or Private Historic District Tour deliver tailored stories.

History buffs interested in civil war or African-American history should consider the Civil War Walk or Slavery to Freedom Tour.

Food lovers will enjoy the Foodie Walking Tour, while thrill-seekers might opt for the Haunted Pub Crawl or the Segway Tour.

Remember to book early, especially in peak season, and consider combining a walking tour with a bike or Segway ride for full coverage.

Savannah offers a variety of ways to explore its fascinating past—from walking and biking to private rides and ghost stories. For a comprehensive experience, the Heart of Savannah Tour provides a lively introduction, while the Bonaventure Cemetery & Wormsloe trip offers an immersive journey through the city’s antebellum landscape.

For something unique, the Vintage Citroën private tour proves memorable, and the Creepy Crawl adds a dash of spooky fun.

No matter your interests, Savannah’s history is rich and accessible, waiting to be uncovered through these thoughtfully curated tours. To get the most out of your visit, consider booking early, and don’t hesitate to mix and match different experiences for a well-rounded trip.