A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Savannah vs. Sonoma for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Savannah or Sonoma?

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

Should I visit Savannah or Sonoma? 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 scenic, historic, and beautiful city. Savannah offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and beaches. See Savannah travel costs.

Sonoma

Sonoma is a serene, relaxing, and scenic county. You'll find world class beauty in Sonoma as well. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Sonoma travel costs.

Savannah and Sonoma: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less charming
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Savannah or Sonoma?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sonoma than Savannah, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sonoma is better known for its food, resorts, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Savannah is more popular for its museums and attractions and historical sights. Sonoma is more touristy than Savannah and is popular for its world-class winemaking and sustainable agriculture. Also, Sonoma is famous for Buena Vista Winery. Savannah is well known for its maritime past, its southern atmosphere, and its Historic District.

How is Savannah different from Sonoma?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Sonoma 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 Sonoma?

Savannah
Sonoma

Savannah is a great city for its historical sights. However, Sonoma is not known for its sights and museums.

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.

Sonoma offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people don't think of museums when they think of Sonoma, there are actually some interesting local options. The California Indian Museum, the Cotati Museum, and the Depot Park Museum are also local are fascinating.


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

Savannah
Sonoma

Sonoma is an amazing county to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Sonoma is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Although wine may be the first thing you think about, the region is also filled with farm-to-table restaurants and award-winning dining options. The food is almost always fresh and local. You can sample many local ingredients such as vegetables, cheeses, olive oils, and fish.

Savannah has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Is Savannah or Sonoma Better for Nightlife?

Savannah
Sonoma

Both Savannah and Sonoma are excellent when it comes to 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.

Sonoma has a large number of nightlife venues. Lounges, wine bars, and live music venues offer a variety of activities for visitors during the evening hours.

Is Savannah or Sonoma Better for Resorts?

Savannah
Sonoma

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

Sonoma is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Spa hotels, charming inns, and beautiful resorts all offer a variety of options for visitors.

Savannah is not a resort destination.


Is Savannah or Sonoma Better for Beaches?

Savannah
Sonoma

Sonoma is a well-known place for its beaches. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for the beach.

Sonoma is considered a top beach destination. The county has a coastline that includes several great beaches as well as rocky shoreline. The beaches include secluded coves and picturesque cliffs as well as sand dunes and sandy beaches.

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 Savannah or Sonoma Better for its Old Town?

Savannah
Sonoma

Savannah is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Sonoma 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.

Sonoma does not have a historic old town.

Is Savannah or Sonoma Better for Hiking?

Savannah
Sonoma

Sonoma is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Savannah is not a hiking destination.

Sonoma is a popular spot for hiking. In between wine tastings you can explore the area's stunning natural beauty. There are hikes through the vineyards, along the coast, or through forested parks. Some of the best hikes are found in Jack London State Historic Park, Sugarloaf State Park, and Armstrong Woods State Park.

Savannah is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Savannah or Sonoma?

Savannah
Sonoma

Both Savannah and Sonoma 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.

Sonoma is well-known for its shopping. You'll find a range of local vendors in the area, selling everything from jewelry to art, home decor, and olive oil.

Is Savannah or Sonoma More Beautiful?

Savannah
Sonoma

Sonoma is an amazing county to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Sonoma as well. The lined vineyards are strikingly beautiful and the setting offers stunning viewpoints and a serene 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 Sonoma Better for Families?

Savannah
Sonoma

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Savannah or Sonoma.

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.

Sonoma is a family-friendly city. While most people think immediately of wine tours, there's actually a lot more to Sonoma County. Kids will enjoy the many outdoor activities in the area, which include beaches, parks, wildlife viewing, and more. There's also horseback riding and even ziplining opportunities.


Is Savannah or Sonoma Better for Couples?

Savannah
Sonoma

Sonoma is an amazing county to visit for romance. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Sonoma makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It has long been a favorite honeymoon destination for couples who come for the vineyards and wine tours. There are also charming hotels, award winning restaurants, and beautiful beaches.

Savannah makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Savannah or Sonoma Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Savannah
Sonoma

Savannah is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Sonoma is not known for backpackers.

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.

Sonoma is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a few budget hotel options in the area, but not much in the form of hostels.

Is Savannah or Sonoma Better for Students?

Savannah
Sonoma

Savannah is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Sonoma 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.

Sonoma is not popular with students.


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

Savannah
Sonoma

Savannah is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Sonoma is not known for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly 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 limited or non-existant in Sonoma. While there are buses, they are almost never used by tourists. There is the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley which you should purchase tickets for in advance.

Is Savannah or Sonoma a more walkable city?

Savannah
Sonoma

Savannah is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Sonoma is not known for its walkability.

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

Sonoma is not a walkable city. You really must have a car to get around the area and explore it efficiently.

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

Should I spend more time in Sonoma or Savannah?

How long in Savannah or Sonoma?

It's fun to spend time in either Savannah or Sonoma. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Sonoma due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Savannah, and 2-4 days is enough time in Sonoma.

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

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


  • How many days in Savannah or Sonoma? Ideal Length of Stay
    Savannah 1-3 
    Sonoma 2-4

One day in Savannah or Sonoma?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Savannah. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

The beautiful county of Sonoma offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Sonoma?

Savannah is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Sonoma is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this county makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sonoma, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Savannah or Sonoma?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Savannah. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Sonoma is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 Sonoma?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Savannah. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Sonoma is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This county 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.


Which place is cheaper, Sonoma or Savannah?

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

  • Savannah Prices
    USA Prices
    Sonoma Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Savannah $202
    Sonoma $260

The average daily cost (per person) in Savannah is $202, while the average daily cost in Sonoma is $260. 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 Savannah and Sonoma in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Savannah $84
    Sonoma $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Savannah $168
    Sonoma $186
Compare Hotels in Savannah and Sonoma

Looking for a hotel in Savannah or Sonoma? 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 Savannah


Hotels in Sonoma


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: Savannah Hotel Prices and Sonoma Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Savannah $27
    Sonoma $134

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 Savannah or Sonoma?

Prices for flights to both Sonoma and Savannah 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
    Savannah $99
    Sonoma $96

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.
    Savannah $17
    Sonoma $16
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

Tours and Activities in Sonoma

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

  • Sonoma Plaza Walking Tour: $109
  • Sonoma Valley: Wine Trolley Tasting Tour with Lunch: $135
  • Sonoma Valley: Guided Winery Tour with Picnic Lunch: $137
  • From Napa Valley Classic Sidecar Tour to 3 Wineries: $340

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Savannah $34
    Sonoma $41

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 Savannah and Sonoma, we can see that Sonoma 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 Sonoma would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Sonoma 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 Sonoma Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Savannah or Sonoma?

Savannah has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Sonoma. When comparing the sizes of Savannah and Sonoma, 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 Sonoma?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Savannah or Sonoma in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Savannah as well as Sonoma. Many visitors come to Savannah in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Sonoma for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Savannah is generally a little warmer than Sonoma. Daily temperatures in Savannah average around 82°F (28°C), and Sonoma fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

Savannah receives a lot of rain in the summer. Savannah usually gets more rain in July than Sonoma. Savannah gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Savannah 82°F (28°C) 
    Sonoma 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Savannah or Sonoma in the Autumn?

Both Sonoma and Savannah are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Sonoma because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Savannah is a little warmer than Sonoma in the autumn. The daily temperature in Savannah averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Sonoma fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In October, Savannah usually receives more rain than Sonoma. Savannah gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Savannah 68°F (20°C) 
    Sonoma 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Savannah or Sonoma in the Winter?

Both Sonoma and Savannah during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Savannah because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Sonoma this time of year.

In the winter, Savannah is a little warmer than Sonoma. Typically, the winter temperatures in Savannah in January average around 49°F (9°C), and Sonoma averages at about 46°F (8°C).

Savannah usually gets less rain in January than Sonoma. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Savannah 49°F (9°C) 
    Sonoma 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Savannah or Sonoma in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Savannah and Sonoma. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Savannah this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sonoma for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Savannah is generally a little warmer than Sonoma. Daily temperatures in Savannah average around 66°F (19°C), and Sonoma fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In April, Savannah usually receives more rain than Sonoma. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Savannah 66°F (19°C) 
    Sonoma 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Sonoma and Savannah

Savannah Sonoma
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 49°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 59°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 66°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 79°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)