A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cozumel vs. Savannah for Beaches, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Cozumel or Savannah?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Cozumel and Savannah can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cozumel

Cozumel is a lively, vibrant, and active island. Cozumel is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Cozumel travel costs.

Savannah

Savannah is a scenic, historic, and beautiful city. Savannah is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Savannah travel costs.

Cozumel and Savannah: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach


Is there more to do in Cozumel or Savannah?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Cozumel than Savannah. While Savannah is larger than Cozumel, Cozumel has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cozumel is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Savannah is known for its museums and attractions, food, and historical sights. Cozumel is more touristy than Savannah and is popular for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. It is also home to Palancar Reef. Savannah is popular for its maritime past, its southern atmosphere, and its Historic District.

How is Cozumel different from Savannah?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Savannah and Cozumel. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cozumel or Savannah?

Cozumel
Savannah

Savannah is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Savannah specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city's long history can be explored at the Savannah History Museum. With the Savannah School of Art and Design in town, you'll also find a great art culture with several museums such as the SCAD Museum of Art and the Jepson Center for the Arts. There's also the Georgia State Railroad Museum and the Sea Maritime Museum. There are several historic houses that you can visit as well, such as the Andrew Low House, the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, and Harper Fowlkes House.

Cozumel offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Check out the Island Museum, the Coral Reefs Monument, and some of the local Mayan ruins. Also worth a visit is Cozumel's Lighthouse.


Is the Food Better in Cozumel or Savannah? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cozumel
Savannah

Savannah is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Savannah. Local restaurants highlight southern hospitality as well as the cuisine. You'll find many classics such as crab cakes, shrimp and grits, and fried fish. There are many restaurants in historic buildings in the Historic District, but you'll also find a number of casual eateries in other neighborhoods.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Cozumel. You'll find a mix of tourist restaurants and hidden gems that serve up authentic Mexican dishes. Wander off the main streets to find the restaurants that are tucked away from the cruise ship crowds.

Is Cozumel or Savannah Better for Nightlife?

Cozumel
Savannah

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find great options in both Cozumel and Savannah.

The nightlife in Cozumel has something for everybody. The nightlife scene is filled with cocktail lounges, beachfront bars, and wild weekend parties. There is something for everyone, whether you'll looking to sip wine by the ocean or party into the early morning.

Savannah offers plenty to do in the evening. Downtown Savannah and River Street are filled with bars and clubs that keep things lively when the sun goes down. During the warmer months there are outdoor venues, concerts and events, but even during the cooler seasons things stay busy.

Is Cozumel or Savannah Better for Resorts?

Cozumel
Savannah

Cozumel is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Savannah is not a resort destination.

Cozumel is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are hotels in the city center, and resorts by the beaches. For diving and snorkeling, stay in Southern Cozumel. Golfing and waterfront properties are popular in Northern Cozumel.

Savannah is not a resort destination.


Is Cozumel or Savannah Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cozumel
Savannah

Cozumel is an amazing island to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Savannah is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Cozumel a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. Many people visit Cozumel specifically for the world class diving. Palancar Reef is one of the best dive spots in the area, and thanks to conservation efforts it is rebounding and offers a diverse environment.

Savannah is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cozumel or Savannah Better for Beaches?

Cozumel
Savannah

Cozumel is an amazing island to visit for its beaches. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Cozumel. The island is lined with beautiful beaches and you'll find great snorkeling and tourist-friendly amenities. Some of the best beaches are Playa Punta Morena, Playa El Cielo, and Playa Chen Rio.

Many people head to Savannah to enjoy the beach. While Savannah doesn't actually have a beach, you can head to nearby Tybee Island for waves and sun. It's about half an hour away and the closest beaches to the city are on the island's north side.

Is Cozumel or Savannah Better for its Old Town?

Cozumel
Savannah

Savannah is a great city for its historic old town. However, Cozumel does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Savannah. There's an impressive Historic District that is filled with gardens, historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and Oak-lined streets. There are wonderful hotels and traditional restaurants that offer a beautiful experience.

Cozumel does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Cozumel or Savannah?

Cozumel
Savannah

If you're looking to go shopping, Cozumel and Savannah both offer plenty of great spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cozumel. For the best shopping head to Plaza del Sol, the Royal Village Shopping Center, or Los Cincos Soles. Expect cruise ship crowds and no shortage of tourists.

Savannah is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping opportunities include art galleries, trendy clothing boutiques, and larger shopping malls. Visitors can wander down the popular Broughton Street, but there's also a City Market and Starland District.

Is Cozumel or Savannah More Beautiful?

Cozumel
Savannah

Cozumel and Savannah both are comparable with their good scenery and beauty.

Cozumel is a gorgeous place to visit. The beaches and undersea world are stunningly beautiful.

Savannah is a beautiful place to visit, too. The city is filled with historic buildings and streets lined with trees draped in Spanish Moss.

Is Cozumel or Savannah Better for Families?

Cozumel
Savannah

Cozumel is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Cozumel is a very family-friendly place to visit. The area is filled with water parks, snorkeling opportunities and, of course, fun-filled beaches. There are also wildlife reserves and Mayan ruins that aren't too far away.

Savannah is a family-friendly island. There's a children's museum in town. There's also many outdoor parks and the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge. Kids will enjoy stopping for ice cream or other sweet treats, which are plentiful as well.


Is Cozumel or Savannah Better for Couples?

Cozumel
Savannah

Both Cozumel and Savannah are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Cozumel is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. Beaches, resorts, and adventure sports make this the perfect couples destination. There are also great restaurants and plenty of interesting places to explore.

Savannah is a very popular place to visit for couples. Trees with Spanish Moss as well as a charming Historic District make this a nice destination for a couple's weekend. There are parks where you can enjoy a picnic. There are also nature trails and many great southern restaurants.

Is Cozumel or Savannah Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cozumel
Savannah

Cozumel is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Cozumel. There are a few hostels in town and it's a safe and easy place to explore independently.

Savannah is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a hostel in town, as well as a number of cheaper motels that are a bit outside of the Historic District.

Is Cozumel or Savannah Better for Students?

Cozumel
Savannah

Savannah is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Cozumel is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Savannah. There are a couple of colleges in town including the Savannah College of Art and Design.

Cozumel is not popular with students.


Is Cozumel or Savannah Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cozumel
Savannah

Cozumel and Savannah both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cozumel. Local buses don't efficiently travel to the beaches or the hotel areas, so most tourists don't use them.

Public transit is generally limited in Savannah. While there are some types of public transit available, the vast majority of visitors have a vehicle, which they use to get around.

Is Cozumel or Savannah a more walkable city?

Cozumel
Savannah

Cozumel and Savannah are great when it comes to walkability.

Cozumel is very walkable. It's easy to walk around the downtown as it's compact and fun to explore on foot.

Savannah is a very walkable island. The Historic District is very walkable, and it makes a pleasant place to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Cozumel Worth Visiting? and Is Savannah Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Savannah or Cozumel?

How long in Cozumel or Savannah?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cozumel and Savannah. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cozumel than in Savannah. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Cozumel, and 1-3 days is enough time in Savannah.

Families should spend more time in Cozumel than Savannah. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Cozumel, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cozumel than Savannah if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Cozumel.


  • How many days in Cozumel or Savannah? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cozumel 3-7 
    Savannah 1-3

One day in Cozumel or Savannah?

The island of Cozumel offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Savannah, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Cozumel or Savannah?

Cozumel is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Savannah, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Savannah has to offer.

Five days in Cozumel or Savannah?

Cozumel is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cozumel, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Savannah is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cozumel or Savannah?

Cozumel is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cozumel has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Savannah. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Savannah. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best Adventure Tours to Mexico, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Savannah or Cozumel?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Cozumel Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Savannah Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cozumel $122
    Savannah $202

The average daily cost (per person) in Cozumel is $122, while the average daily cost in Savannah is $202. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Cozumel and Savannah in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cozumel $63
    Savannah $84
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cozumel $126
    Savannah $168
Compare Hotels in Cozumel and Savannah

Looking for a hotel in Cozumel or Savannah? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Cozumel


Hotels in Savannah


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Cozumel Hotel Prices and Savannah Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cozumel $21
    Savannah $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cozumel

Also for Cozumel, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Shared Transfer from Airport to Hotel: $27
  • Mexico Cozumel Airport (CZM) to Cozumel -Arrival Private Transfer: $51
  • ATV tour to jade cavern with transfer (single or double): $55
  • Cozumel Mayan Experience And Beach Getaway with Transfer: $55
  • Cozumel Jungle ATV Tour Adventure and Caverns with transfer: $65
  • Private One Way Transfer from Cozumel to Cozumel Airport: $67
  • Private One Way Transfer from Cozumel Airport to Cozumel: $67
  • Mexico Cozumel Airport (CZM) to Cozumel Cruise Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $77
  • ATV Adventure to Jade Cavern with transfer: $83
  • Private Transfer from Cozumel Port to Cozumel Airport (CZM): $93
  • Cozumel Airport (CZM) to Cozumel Cruise Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $154

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Savannah

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Savannah:

  • Private Transfer from SAV to Hilton Head Island, SC : $243
  • Private Transfer from Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Hilton Head Island, SC: $243
  • Private Savannah Airport to Tybee Island Transfer : $100
  • Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Savannah - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $69
  • One Way Private Transfer to/from Savannah Int'l: $68
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Savannah (SAV) Airport: $36
  • Savannah to Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) - Departure Private Transfer: $35

Is it cheaper to fly into Cozumel or Savannah?

Prices for flights to both Savannah and Cozumel change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Cozumel $37
    Savannah $99

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cozumel

For Cozumel, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Under the Stars Twilight Snorkel and Seaside Dinner at Money Bar: $90
  • Cozumel Food Tour: $90
  • Cozumel Food Tour: $110

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Savannah

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Savannah.

  • Monday Gospel Dinner Cruise: $77
  • Savannah Riverboat Gospel Music Dinner Cruise: $77
  • Southern & Secret Walking Food Tour: $92
  • Southern and Secret Food Tour: $92
  • 2 HR Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise with Onboard Entertainment: $93
  • Buffet Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment: $93
  • Savannah First Squares Culinary & Cultural Walking Food Tour: $97
  • Southern Traditions Dinner Tour: $106
  • Private Ayurvedic Vegetarian Cooking with Ninoska in Savannah: $109
  • Southern Traditions Dinner Tour: $125
  • True South Lunch Food Tour: $125
  • Savannah’s Palate – Private Historic Food Tour: $1,429

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cozumel $40
    Savannah $17

Tours and Activities in Cozumel

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Cozumel.

  • Skip the Line: Admission Ticket to El Cedral Town and Mayan Temple: $16
  • Transparent Boat Tour in See Marine Life Up Close: $19
  • Crystal Boat Trip and Snorkeling Tour from Cozumel: $19
  • Crystal-clear Boat trip & Snorkeling tour: $19
  • Tequila History and Tasting Experience and Unlimited Beach Break: $25
  • El Cielo Snorkeling Adventure in Cozumel: $28
  • Cozumel’s Mayan Journey: Dance, Rituals, and Tasting Tour: $29
  • Cozumel Snorkeling Tour: Palancar, Columbia and El Cielo Reefs: $29
  • Island Tour in Cozumel, Mayan Show & Tacos: $30
  • Transparent Boating and Snorkeling Tour in Cozumel All Inclusive: $32
  • Bicycle Adventure With Snorkel and Lunch: $33
  • VIP Glass Bottom Boat & Snorkeling 3 Reefs Tour: $35

Typical Entertainment Prices in Savannah

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Savannah are as follows:


  • Pub Crawl
    $10

Tours and Activities in Savannah

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Savannah are as follows:

  • A Film History of Savannah Walking Tour : $29
  • The Southern History of Savannah Walking tour: $29
  • "Savannah for Morons" Comedy Trolley Tour: $59
  • 1-Hour Bonaventure Cemetery Golf Cart Guided Tour in Savannah : $38
  • 10pm Restless Souls Tour: $30
  • 2 Hours Dolphin Eco Tour: $42
  • 2-Hour Bonaventure Cemetery Walking Tour: $36
  • 2-Hour Savannah Sunset Riverboat Cruise: $55
  • 2hr Paranormal Walking Tour: $30
  • 8pm Savannah Secrets True Crime Tour: $30
  • 8pm Voices of the Dead Tour: $30
  • 90 Minutes Walking Tour in Savannah: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cozumel $10
    Savannah $34

Sample the Local Flavors in Cozumel

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Cozumel:

  • Chocolate Seaside Workshop & Wine Tasting: $45
  • Downtown Cozumel and Brewery Experience: $69
  • Rum and Gin at Cozumel First Distillery : $99
  • Craft Beer Tasting Experience with Brewery Tour: $99
  • Cozumel Mixology Experience at Distillery : $109

Sample the Local Flavors in Savannah

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Savannah:

  • Haunted Hops Savannah Pub Tour Spirits and Brews: $25
  • Bloody Murder Savannah Pub Crawl: $30
  • Bad Kitty Pub Crawl, Spooky Naughty Ghosts: $30
  • Savannah Terrors: Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Savannah Bar Crawl by the Bridge: $32
  • Moonlight Happy Hour Haunted Pub Crawl With Captain Stoner: $33
  • Captain Stoner's Haunted Dive Bar Crawl in Historic Savannah: $33
  • Moonlight Happy Hour Pub Crawl with Captain Stoner: $33
  • Captain Stoner's Haunted Dive Bar Crawl: $33
  • 10 to Midnight Happy Hour and Haunted Pub Crawl w/ the Captain: $33
  • Late Night Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl: $33
  • Spooky Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl: $33


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cozumel and Savannah, we can see that Savannah is more expensive. And not only is Cozumel much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cozumel would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cozumel and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Savannah would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Savannah than you might in Cozumel.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cozumel Expensive? and Is Savannah Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cozumel or Savannah?

Savannah has a larger population, and is about 78% larger than the population of Cozumel. When comparing the sizes of Cozumel and Savannah, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.