A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Savannah vs. Bar Harbor for Food, Couples, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Savannah or Bar Harbor?

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

Should I visit Savannah or Bar Harbor? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Savannah

Savannah is a historic, beautiful, and charming city. Savannah is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Savannah travel costs.

Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor is a relaxed, quaint, and charming coastal town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. Bar Harbor is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking. See Bar Harbor travel costs.

Savannah and Bar Harbor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Savannah or Bar Harbor?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Savannah. Although Savannah and Bar Harbor are both popular with visitors, Savannah has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Savannah is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and historical sights, while Bar Harbor is known for its resorts, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Bar Harbor is more touristy than Savannah and is known for its small town vibe, picturesque setting, whale watching tours, and convenient location near Acadia National Park. Savannah is popular for its maritime past, its southern atmosphere, and its Historic District. It is also home to Forsyth Park.

How is Savannah different from Bar Harbor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Savannah or Bar Harbor?

Savannah is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Bar Harbor does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Savannah. 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.

Bar Harbor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Savannah and Bar Harbor can be difficult as they are each excellent in their own way.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Savannah makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Bar Harbor has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town is famous for its Maine lobster, but there are also countless other types of fresh seafood available. You'll find waterfront restaurants with beautiful views and fresh ingredients.

Is Savannah or Bar Harbor Better for Nightlife?

Savannah is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Bar Harbor is not a good coastal town for nightlife and partying.

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.

Bar Harbor doesn't offer many options. It's a peaceful and sleepy town, so you wont find much in the way of nightlife.

Is Savannah or Bar Harbor Better for Resorts?

Bar Harbor is a popular place for its resorts. However, Savannah is not a resort destination.

Bar Harbor has a handful of resorts to choose from. The town is all about the cute hotel. Several favorites include Sand Bar Cottage Inn, Bluenose Inn, and Bar Harbor Inn and Spa.

Savannah is not a resort destination.

Is Savannah or Bar Harbor Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Savannah and Bar Harbor are good choices.

Savannah is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Many people head to Bar Harbor to enjoy the beach. A nice beach is close by but do note that the sand is very shelly and there is a big difference between high and low tides.

Is Savannah or Bar Harbor Better for its Old Town?

Savannah is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Bar Harbor does not have a historic old town.

Savannah is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Bar Harbor does not have a historic old town.

Is Savannah or Bar Harbor Better for Hiking?

Bar Harbor is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Savannah is not a hiking destination.

Bar Harbor is a good destination for hiking. Nearby Acadia National Park has plenty of hiking options. There's also the Bar Harbor Shore Path that wanders along the coastline and offers beautiful views.

Savannah is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Savannah or Bar Harbor?

Both Savannah and Bar Harbor are excellent shopping destinations.

Savannah is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Bar Harbor is well-known for its shopping. Filled with plenty of local boutique shops, its fun to enjoy some shopping around town.

Is Savannah or Bar Harbor More Beautiful?

Bar Harbor is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

Bar Harbor is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Surrounded by the water and beautiful landscaping, the town offers visitors plenty of beauty.

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 Savannah or Bar Harbor Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Savannah or Bar Harbor.

Savannah is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Bar Harbor is a family-friendly city. It is a small town with a lot of outdoor activities that kids will enjoy. Whale watching, kayaking, and wildlife spotting are all fun activities for all ages.

Is Savannah or Bar Harbor Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Savannah and Bar Harbor make for a excellent place to visit.

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.

Bar Harbor makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It is a quaint coastal town that is perfect for a couple's getaway or a short honeymoon. There are romantic restaurants, scenic walks, and beautiful views that make this a wonderful retreat.

Is Savannah or Bar Harbor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Savannah is a city with good options for backpackers. However, Bar Harbor is not a good coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Savannah is a good city to visit for backpackers. There's a hostel in town, as well as a number of cheaper motels that are a bit outside of the Historic District.

Bar Harbor is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It's a small town with mostly high end accommodation so budget travelers and backpackers will struggle to find a place to stay.

Is Savannah or Bar Harbor Better for Students?

Savannah is a city with good options for students. However, Bar Harbor is not popular with students.

Savannah is a good city to visit for students. There are a couple of colleges in town including the Savannah College of Art and Design.

Bar Harbor is not popular with students.

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

Both Savannah and Bar Harbor offer decent public transit options.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Bar Harbor. There is a free shuttle bus that will help you get around town if needed.

Is Savannah or Bar Harbor a more walkable city?

Savannah and Bar Harbor both are excellent when exploring on foot.

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

Bar Harbor is a very walkable city. The town is small enough that it's easily explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Bar Harbor or Savannah?

How long in Savannah or Bar Harbor?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Savannah and Bar Harbor. In our opinion, Savannah has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Savannah than Bar Harbor. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Savannah, and 2-3 days is enough time in Bar Harbor.

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

Couples should spend more time in Savannah than Bar Harbor. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Savannah that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Savannah than Bar Harbor 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 Savannah.

One day in Savannah or Bar Harbor?

With museums and nightlife around the beautiful city of Savannah, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Savannah, one day is sufficent for most.

Bar Harbor is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. 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.

A weekend in Savannah or Bar Harbor?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Savannah, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Bar Harbor is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bar Harbor, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Savannah or Bar Harbor?

Savannah, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Bar Harbor is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Savannah or Bar Harbor?

Savannah is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Bar Harbor is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Savannah and Bar Harbor, we can see that Bar Harbor is more expensive. And not only is Savannah much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Savannah would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Savannah 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 Bar Harbor would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bar Harbor than you might in Savannah.

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

Which is Bigger, Savannah or Bar Harbor?

Savannah has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Bar Harbor. When comparing the sizes of Savannah and Bar Harbor, 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.

When is the best time to visit Savannah or Bar Harbor?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Savannah or Bar Harbor in the Summer?

Both Bar Harbor and Savannah are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Savannah in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Bar Harbor for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Savannah is a little warmer than Bar Harbor in the summer. The daily temperature in Savannah averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Bar Harbor fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

It's quite rainy in Savannah. In July, Savannah usually receives more rain than Bar Harbor. Savannah gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Bar Harbor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Savannah or Bar Harbor in the Autumn?

Both Bar Harbor and Savannah during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Savannah for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Bar Harbor because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Savannah is much warmer than Bar Harbor. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Savannah in October average around 68°F (20°C), and Bar Harbor averages at about 48°F (9°C).

Savannah usually gets less rain in October than Bar Harbor. Savannah gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Bar Harbor receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Savannah or Bar Harbor in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Savannah and Bar Harbor. The winter months attract visitors to Savannah because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Bar Harbor this time of year.

It's quite cold in Bar Harbor in the winter. In January, Savannah is generally much warmer than Bar Harbor. Daily temperatures in Savannah average around 49°F (9°C), and Bar Harbor fluctuates around 18°F (-8°C).

In January, Savannah usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bar Harbor. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Bar Harbor receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Savannah or Bar Harbor in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Savannah as well as Bar Harbor. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Savannah this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bar Harbor for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Savannah is much warmer than Bar Harbor in the spring. The daily temperature in Savannah averages around 66°F (19°C) in April, and Bar Harbor fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

Savannah usually gets less rain in April than Bar Harbor. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Bar Harbor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bar Harbor and Savannah