Savannah Historic District & Islands Private Guided Tour

Discover Savannah with a Private Guided Tour for a Custom Half-Day Experience

The Savannah Historic District & Islands Private Guided Tour offers an in-depth, personalized look at Savannah and nearby Tybee Island for $225 per person. Lasting approximately 4 hours, this tour combines the charm of Savannah’s historic squares with the scenic beauty of Tybee Island, making it ideal for those seeking a flexible and private exploration. The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide, with pickup service available and air-conditioned transportation included, ensuring comfort as you discover key sights.

This tour stands out for its customizable itinerary, allowing visitors to prioritize what interests them most. While the overall pace is relaxed, some stops, such as the lighthouse and Fort Pulaski, offer deeper historical insights. Most travelers book the tour about 35 days in advance, reflecting its popularity among visitors wanting a tailored experience of Savannah’s rich heritage and coastal scenery.

Key Points

• Private, customizable 4-hour tour exploring Savannah’s historic district and Tybee Island
• Includes transportation, bottled water, and flexible stops tailored to interests
• Visit the Tybee Island lighthouse and Fort Pulaski, with optional exploration time
• Led by knowledgeable guides praised for their storytelling and local expertise
• Ideal for travelers seeking privacy and a personalized experience in Savannah
• Most bookings occur 35 days ahead, making early reservation recommended

Start in Savannah’s Historic Squares and Green Spaces

The tour begins in Savannah’s Historic District, where you explore over a dozen of the 22 squares that define the city’s layout. The tour leads you through shaded areas dotted with beautiful homes, churches, inns, and museums, all set amidst live oak trees and lush greenery. Expect a relaxed walk lasting about 1 hour and 30 minutes, during which no entrance fees are required.

This initial segment provides a breathtaking glimpse of Savannah’s architecture and landscaping. Your guides share stories about the area’s development, notable buildings, and the significance of the green spaces. The flexibility of this private tour means you can linger at any point or move at your preferred pace. The focus remains on history and aesthetics, making it perfect for those interested in architecture, design, or simply enjoying Savannah’s scenery.

Tybee Island Lighthouse and Museum: A Coastal Landmark

After exploring Savannah’s squares, the tour proceeds to Tybee Island, home to the historic lighthouse first built in 1736. At 90 feet tall, it was once the tallest structure in America and remains a significant maritime symbol. The lighthouse and museum are open for a one-hour visit, with admission not included—allowing flexibility for those who want to explore further or take photos.

This stop highlights Tybee Island’s strategic importance since the early 18th century. The lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding coast. You can learn about the island’s role in maritime navigation and its historical significance. As part of the private tour, you can choose to focus on the lighthouse or customize your experience, making it a highlight for lovers of coastal scenery and history.

Relaxing Break at Tybee Pier and Pavilion

Following the lighthouse visit, the tour moves to Tybee Pier and Pavilion for a 30-minute stop. This area offers a resort-like atmosphere, perfect for strolling along the pier, enjoying ocean breezes, or simply observing the lively beach scene. The pavilion provides a great spot for photos and soaking in the coastal ambiance.

This stop is free of charge and designed for casual enjoyment. The relaxed pace allows visitors to breathe in the sea air, take photos, or explore nearby shops and cafes. The flexibility of this private tour means you can spend more or less time here, depending on your interests, making it ideal for those wanting a blend of sightseeing and leisure.

Fort Pulaski National Monument: Civil War History Preserved

A key highlight of this tour is the visit to Fort Pulaski National Monument on Cockspur Island. The well-preserved Civil War fort is a one-hour stop where you learn about the Siege of Fort Pulaski in 1862. The fort played a crucial role in closing the port of Savannah, with the Union military technology decisively overcoming Confederate defenses.

Admission to Fort Pulaski is included, ensuring an immersive experience. Visitors can explore the defensive walls, artillery positions, and interpretive exhibits that detail the fort’s strategic importance. The guide provides insights into Civil War tactics and the historical context, making this stop especially meaningful for history enthusiasts.

Comfort and Convenience with Private Transportation

Throughout the 4-hour experience, travelers benefit from air-conditioned vehicle transport, making the tour comfortable regardless of the weather. The private nature of the tour means only your group participates, providing personalized attention and the flexibility to modify the itinerary as desired.

Bottled water is included, ensuring hydration during the day. The tour departs from a location that can be arranged with pickup service, streamlining logistics and allowing focus on sightseeing without concerns about transportation.

Experience Guides Known for Knowledge and Flexibility

Reviews highlight the guides’ expertise, friendliness, and ability to tell engaging stories about Savannah’s history and local sites. Guides like Andy, Bill, and Rose receive praise for their entertaining and informative narration, with many emphasizing the flexibility of the tour to stop at sites of particular interest.

Guests appreciate guides who are accommodating, willing to alter the pace or focus on specific aspects, and who share additional insights beyond standard facts. This personalized approach makes the tour stand out compared to larger, group-based options.

Logistics and Booking Recommendations

Most visitors book this tour around 35 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The full refund policy allows cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing peace of mind. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with no animals allowed and a note that special requirements need prior approval.

The mobility of the vehicle and the walking portions at specific stops make it accessible for many, though visitors should be prepared for some walking at the squares, lighthouse, and fort.

Comparing the Tour to Similar Options

This private tour is distinct for its combination of city and island sites, offering both urban exploration and coastal scenery. It is often chosen over more generic tours, thanks to its personalized service and ability to tailor stops to interests. The reviewed experiences consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and well-organized itinerary.

Travelers seeking a more intimate, flexible, and customized Savannah experience** will find this tour to be a valuable introduction to the city’s history and surroundings. It suits those who want to avoid large groups, prefer private transportation, and enjoy focused sightseeing with the option to explore in depth.

Final Thoughts on the Savannah Historic District & Islands Private Guided Tour

This tour offers a comprehensive yet personalized way to experience Savannah’s historic squares, Tybee Island’s lighthouse, and Fort Pulaski in just 4 hours. The combination of cultural landmarks and coastal beauty appeals to a wide range of visitors, especially those who appreciate expert guides and customizable itineraries.

While it includes notable stops and allows for some flexibility, travelers should note that not all attractions require admission, and the pace can be adjusted to suit interests. The price point of $225 per person reflects the private nature and quality of guidance, making it a valuable option for those wanting a tailored, comfortable day of sightseeing.

In sum, this tour is highly recommended for first-time visitors, history buffs, or anyone looking for a relaxed, private experience that showcases the best of Savannah and Tybee Island.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, most travelers can participate, though some walking at stops may be required. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a moderate pace.

Can I customize the stops during the tour?
Absolutely. As a private tour, guides are willing to adjust the itinerary based on your interests.

What is included in the price?
The tour price includes private transportation, bottled water, and admission to Fort Pulaski. The lighthouse visit does not include admission, giving flexibility.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 35 days ahead. Early reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

Is there any physical requirement for this tour?
The tour involves walking at the squares and sites, but the vehicle transfers help reduce walking time. It’s suitable for most but not designed for mobility-impaired visitors.

Can I join this tour if I only have a few hours in Savannah?
Yes, the 4-hour duration makes it ideal for fitting into a short stay, especially if you want a rundown.

Are meals or other refreshments included?
Only bottled water is provided. Food and additional drinks are not included but can be purchased during stops.

Who leads the tour?
Guides like Andy, Bill, and Rose are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to tell engaging stories.

How do I organize pickup or drop-off?
Pickup services are available; details can be arranged during booking. The tour can also start from a designated meeting point with prior arrangements.