My husband and I just returned from a too short, five night trip to Savannah and Charleston. First trip to either city.

We flew into Savannah and rented a car. Drove to Azalea Inn. It's a few blocks from Forsyth Park, probably a mile or so from the river. Nice people, nice room, gourmet breakfasts. Lovely old home, certainly not as grand as some of the others, but very nice. We loved Savannah. As soon as we started walking down Bull Street, we were enchanted. I love live oak trees anyway, and they are everywhere. Just dripping with Spanish moss. I loved all the coffee shops, restaurants, bars with outdoor seating. Loved the squares. Enjoyed the riverfront. We took a city tour, learned a lot. Ate at lots of good, midrange restaurants. Also, we drove to Tybee Island. We weren't impressed, but it was a pirate festival and the parade was fun.

After three nights we drove to Charleston. We stayed at Jasmine House Inn. Our room was lovely, huge, large veranda. Decent continental type breakfast. Only complaint was the airconditioning must have been set at about 60. I darn near froze. We didn't fall in love with Charleston the way we did with Savannah. We weren't there as long, maybe that was part of it. It's also much more of a city. I would certainly agree that the shopping would be much better in Charleston, but I don't like to shop. Once again, we ate in mid-range restaurants, we didn't have a bad meal here either.

All in all a wonderful trip. Thanks for the suggestions that were offerred here.

What a nice trip report. Your thoughts are similar to mine. I've enjoyed Charleston when I've visited, but I fell in love with Savannah. I'm so glad that you enjoyed the squares and all they have to offer. I think many folks who don't like Savannah think that if they've "done" the riverfront and City Market, they've "done" Savannah. The charm of Savannah (for me) is found in the wonderful part of the city blocks away from the river.

So glad you enjoyed your trip!!! If you ever have another chance to come back this way, try to come in the Spring. From the latter part of March to the middle of April, both cities are in bloom. Savannah is particually fantastic. Just imagine all those squares packed with all shades of pink, lavender and white azaleas, with flowering trees above and tulips and other flowering bulbs tucked in everywhere.

Check this out: Blooming Savannah
http://savannahnow.com/features/slideshows/blooming/

Guess which city I live in!

Usually when I'm in Savannah, Savannah is my favorite of the two and when I'm in Charleston, Charleston is my favorite of the two.

Glad you enjoyed your trip!

Right there with you, GoTravel! I just can't pick ONE!!!

JeanH, maybe your half-frozen state affected your feelings for Charleston...... Not being comfy where I lay my head at night makes me a little the rest of the day!

Do go back to the area in March/April, as Starrsville recommends. Both are REALLY divine then ...

I just hope the poster didn't gauge Charleston by the Market. I stay as far away from that trap as possible.

Loved them both but would have to agree that spring with the azaleas in bloom was a perfect time to visit . Middleton Place Plantation was spectacular in April.

I think I liked the pedestrian nature of Charleston's historic district as it was much quieter. But Savannah has a charm that is undeniable....there you go!

I'd love to return to Savannah when the azaleas are blooming. I was thinking that every time I realized that most of the green shrubs around me were, indeed, azaleas and rhododendrons.

As for being cold in our B&B in Charleston, it was just the second day we were there and the temperature outside had dropped about 15 degrees from the day before. I suspect they have to really crank up the a/c to keep it cool when it's really hot. Just didn't need that much cooling when the outdoor temps were in the 70's.

I am arriving in Savannah next weekend.Staying at the Hampton Inn on East Bay St. Can anyone recommend a great restaurant, not too pricey, that's walking distance? Thanks!
H Crary