helen63

My husband and I have a couple of vacation days left for this year, so thinking of spending 5 days around Charleston and Savannah in December (the week prior to X-mas).
We are from Chicago, and never been to these cities before.
We do not have any specific agenda. We are interested in history, and just want to walk around, enjoy traditional X-mas decorations, eat, etc...

I am thinking to spend 3 days in Charleston and 2 days in Savannah. Is this a right split, or better stay in one place?

I am looking for some recommendations on what to do and see during this time of the year - X-mas markets, concerts, restaurants, etc...

Thank you in advance for your help!

MmePerdu

I'd be inclined to stay in one place. But it's hard to tell exactly how long you actually have as you describe it. Can you tell us how many nights you have, please, between your travel day down and the day you'll be returning home?

helen63

We have 5 full days. We will arrive on Thursday late at night, and go back home next week on Wednesday, early in the morning. So, we have Friday thru Tuesday to play with.

Gretchen

I think your splitting time 2 days in Savannah and 3 in Charleston would be good.
There are innumerable threads. Why not look at a few and see what attracts.
I don't know any "Christmas markets". The stores in both cities will be teeming.
See Beaufort on the way down to Savannah.

helen63

Thanks, Gretchen! Sure, I have done some reading and will do more. I just was looking for recommendations specifically for pre-Christmas time of the year (lights, concerts, events, etc) if anything. I do not find much on December travel.

Gretchen

Probably look at the websites for Charleston and Savannah and see what they are listing for that time.

Gretchen

https://www.google.com/search?source....0.-4ezi46K0Kg

helen63

Gretchen, thank you! I did use these sources, just was hoping someone would share their personal favorites.

bvh

3 days in one place and 2 in the other could be a lot of work. Charleston is bustling these days. I don't think Savannah offers a lot of appeal in December.

gmoney

Helen, I have been to both and your plan sounds fine. I think Charleston is more for sight seeing with many attractions (plantations, Fort Sumter, etc.) and Savannah more for relaxing and leisurely walks . I would do Charleston first and then Savannah. Savannah is more laid back and the biggest attraction is just strolling the many tree lined squares and taking in the atmosphere. Both have plenty of history and charm as well as many restaurants to choose from. I happen to prefer Savannah as I like to relax while on while on vacation. both places are very similar but at the same time very different if that makes any sense. Bet you come away loving them both, have a great time.

Macross

Visit Tybee beach if you go to Savannah. The weather should be perfect.

starrs

Any split between the two cities is fine. My favorite is Savannah. My favorite holiday event is in early December though.
https://www.dnaholidaytour.com/
You'll fall in love with the southern coastal cities and the southern weather in winter. Rarely will you need more than a jacket.

helen63

BVH, GMoney, Macross, Starrs, thank you so much! Unfortunately, we will miss Holiday Home tour, we will be there starting December, 15.