Savannah, Georgia is one of the most walkable and historically layered cities in the United States. If you only have one day in Savannah, the key is not trying to see everything — it’s understanding how the city fits together.

This 1 day in Savannah itinerary focuses on the Historic District, where the city was founded in 1733 and where its famous squares, architecture, and stories still shape the atmosphere today.

Morning: Start with the Historic Squares

Savannah’s design is unlike any other American city. It was built around a grid of public squares — 22 of which still exist today.

Begin your morning exploring several of these iconic squares, including:

Johnson Square (the largest and oldest)
Chippewa Square
Madison Square
Monterey Square

Each square has its own monument, history, and role in Savannah’s development. As you walk between them, notice how the layout creates natural gathering spaces and shaded areas beneath the oak trees.

Best Tip:

Start your day with a guided walking tour of the Historic District. Seeing Savannah with context changes the entire experience. Understanding why the city was designed this way makes every square more meaningful.

Late Morning: Colonial Park Cemetery

Next, head to Colonial Park Cemetery, established in 1750.

Here you’ll find:

18th and 19th century gravestones
Stories from yellow fever epidemics
Revolutionary War connections
Insight into early Savannah life

It’s one of the most historically revealing stops in the city and adds depth to what you’re seeing in the surrounding squares.

Midday: Forsyth Park

Walk south toward Forsyth Park, home to Savannah’s iconic fountain.

This is a perfect place to:

Take photos
Relax in the shade
Enjoy a picnic or coffee break

The park marks the southern edge of the original Historic District expansion and offers a peaceful contrast to the earlier colonial squares.

Afternoon: Architecture & Hidden Details

Savannah is essentially an open-air museum of architectural styles.

As you explore, look for:

Federal-style townhomes
Greek Revival mansions
Victorian residences
Gothic churches

Notice the ironwork balconies, brick sidewalks, and historic homes that have survived wars, fires, and economic changes.

If you’re interested in stepping inside a historic building, consider visiting:

Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist
Christ Church
Independent Presbyterian Church

Each adds another layer to Savannah’s story.

Late Afternoon: River Street

End your day on River Street along the Savannah River.

This area was once the commercial heart of the city, filled with cotton warehouses and maritime trade. Today, the historic buildings house shops and restaurants, but the cobblestone streets and river views still reflect Savannah’s 19th-century importance as a port city.

Watching cargo ships pass through the river is a reminder that Savannah is not just historic — it’s still active and evolving.

How to Make the Most of One Day in Savannah

If you only have one day, the most important thing is understanding how Savannah was intentionally planned.

The city’s original 1733 design — centered around wards and public squares — is one of the most successful urban plans in American history. Once you understand the layout, the monuments, architecture, and streets make far more sense.

The most efficient way to experience this is by starting your day with a small-group walking tour through the Historic District. It provides context, orientation, and historical insight that transforms the rest of your visit.

If you want real stories, not just photo stops, begin your 1 day in Savannah with a guided walking tour.

👉 Book your Historic District walking tour here.

The Perfect 1 Day in Savannah Itinerary (For First-Time Visitors)