Private Tour of Savannah’s Historic/Victorian Districts & Bonaventure Cemetery

Experience Savannah’s Charm with a Private Tour of Its Historic Districts and Bonaventure Cemetery

If you’re after a flexible, intimate way to see Savannah’s most iconic sights—without the crowds or the rush—this private tour of the Historic District, Victorian neighborhoods, and Bonaventure Cemetery could be perfect. For $175 per person, you get about three hours of guided exploration, with the added bonus of hotel pickup and a personalized itinerary tailored to your interests.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines stunning architecture with local stories, making history come alive through the eyes of knowledgeable guides like Andy or Bill. Plus, the fact that it’s entirely private means your questions are answered, your pace is your own, and the day feels more like a friendly outing than a tour group scramble.

On the downside, three hours isn’t a long time to cover so much ground, so if you’re a history buff eager to go even deeper, you might wish for a longer stay or a more extensive tour. However, for first-timers or those wanting a well-rounded overview, this private tour strikes a great balance.

This experience is ideally suited for travelers who appreciate personalized attention, comfortable transportation, and a deep dive into Savannah’s architectural and cultural highlights. Whether you’re first visiting the city or simply want a tailored, stress-free way to see the sights, this private tour offers a memorable taste of Savannah’s timeless beauty.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: The tour is fully customizable, allowing you to focus on what interests you most.
• Private Guide & Transportation: Enjoy the comfort of a private vehicle and a knowledgeable guide who can answer all your questions.
• Highlights: Explore Savannah’s historic squares, Victorian architecture, the stunning Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, and Bonaventure Cemetery.
• Authentic Insights: Guides share stories and background that bring Savannah’s history to life.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and bottled water included make for an easy, relaxed outing.
• Ideal for First-Time Visitors: It’s a great way to get your bearings and determine what to explore further during your stay.

A Deep Dive into Savannah’s Private Tour Experience

Getting Started with a Personalized Approach

From the moment your guide arrives for pickup at your hotel, it’s clear this isn’t a cookie-cutter bus tour. Instead, you’re in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle specially reserved for just your group. The private nature means your guide, often Andy or Bill based on reviews, can tailor the experience on the fly—focusing on your interests or skipping things you’re less keen on.

This flexibility is a real bonus. As one reviewer notes, “Andy was super knowledgeable and friendly. He took us to places we wanted and even added some surprises,” making the ride feel more like a local friend showing you around than a scripted tour.

Exploring Savannah’s Historic Districts

Your journey begins in the Historic District, famous for its 22 squares shaded by towering live oaks draped with Spanish moss. These squares are more than pretty parks; they’re the backbone of Savannah’s urban design, each with its own story. Expect your guide to point out lovely homes, historic churches, charming inns, and museums.

As you drive through, you’ll get a sense of Savannah’s Colonial roots and how its neighborhoods grew over centuries. The Victorian District adds a different flavor, showcasing late Victorian and Queen Anne architecture. This area is a feast for architecture lovers, with ornate gingerbread trim, turrets, and wraparound porches that whisper of a more ostentatious past.

Visiting the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist

Next, the tour typically includes a stop at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture. Though the tour often focuses on exterior views, this cathedral is a highlight, with its impressive stained glass and towering spires. It’s a true icon of Savannah’s religious and cultural history, and a perfect photo stop.

Bonaventure Cemetery—A Must-See Hidden Gem

The highlight for many is the visit to Bonaventure Cemetery. Located on the site of a former plantation, it’s famous for its moss-draped oaks, intricate sculptures, and historical headstones. This cemetery gained fame through the novel and film Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, and rightly so.

Guides often take you on a driving tour around the cemetery, pointing out notable graves and sharing stories behind the sculptures and the stories of those buried there. You can hop out for photos, as some reviews mention, or simply enjoy the tranquil, slightly haunting atmosphere from the vehicle. One traveler noted, “Bill pointed out details I would have missed without his great knowledge,” emphasizing the value of a guide’s insights.

What We Love About This Tour

One aspect consistently praised in reviews is the knowledgeable guides like Andy and Bill. They bring Savannah’s streets to life with stories and context, making history feel personal and engaging. The clean, comfortable van and the ability to hop in and out at key spots add to the relaxed, enjoyable pace.

Another big plus is the ability to customize the itinerary. Some guests appreciated extra time at Bonaventure Cemetery, while others enjoyed a quick stop at specific squares or churches. This level of flexibility is rare in group tours and makes for a more rewarding experience.

Considering the Price and Value

At $175 per person, this private tour isn’t the cheapest option in Savannah, but it offers excellent value for a personalized, comfortable experience. It’s especially suitable for those who prefer private guides to large, crowded buses or are interested in a more in-depth, conversational approach.

You also get hotel pickup, which simplifies logistics, and bottled water, keeping you refreshed during your exploration. For travelers eager to get a genuine feel for Savannah without feeling rushed, this tour provides a solid overview that’s worth the investment.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience is a great fit for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive introduction, or small groups and couples seeking a more intimate look at Savannah’s architecture and cemeteries. It’s excellent for those who value local stories and insider tips—many reviews mention guides sharing restaurant recommendations and hidden gems.

It’s not ideal for travelers looking for a lengthy, in-depth historical tour or those with limited mobility, as the tour is about three hours and involves some walking and outdoor stops.

The Sum Up: Why Choose This Private Savannah Tour?

For those wanting a personalized, relaxed way to see Savannah’s most iconic sights, this private tour hits the mark. The combination of comfortable transportation, enthusiastic guides, and a flexible itinerary makes it ideal for discovering the city’s architecture, history, and culture at your own pace.

If you’re eager to see the beautiful squares, marvel at Victorian homes, and wander through the mysterious Bonaventure Cemetery, all while learning captivating stories, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of sightseeing and storytelling.

Best suited for first-time visitors, couples, or small groups who appreciate private attention and authentic local insights, it provides a memorable introduction to Savannah’s timeless appeal.

While three hours isn’t enough to cover everything in depth, it’s a perfect way to get your bearings and decide what to explore further. You’ll leave with a richer understanding of Savannah’s architecture, history, and hidden stories, making your visit truly meaningful.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately three hours, including transportation, stops, and sightseeing.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup for added convenience.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour is private and designed to be flexible based on your interests.

What sights are included?
You’ll visit Savannah’s historic squares, Victorian neighborhoods, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, and Bonaventure Cemetery.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, though it’s best for those comfortable with some walking and outdoor stops.

What’s the price?
The cost is $175 per person, which includes private transportation, bottled water, and guide expertise.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent, and if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I bring my pet?
Animals are not allowed on this tour.

This private Savannah tour offers a balanced, enriching experience for those who value personal attention, authentic stories, and a relaxed pace. It’s especially suited for first-timers eager to soak up Savannah’s charm without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.