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

Exploring Savannah’s Hidden Charms: A Deep Dive into the Private Tour of its Historic Districts & Bonaventure Cemetery

If you’re planning a trip to Savannah and want an insider’s look at the city’s most iconic neighborhoods and landmarks, this private tour could be just what you need. It’s designed to give you a flexible, personalized experience that covers the Historic District, the enchanting Victorian District, and the famous Bonaventure Cemetery—all in about three hours.

What we love about this experience is how interactive and customizable it feels. You get a dedicated guide who can tailor the stops to your interests, plus the comfort of a private vehicle and hotel pickup. On the flip side, it’s priced at $175 per person, which isn’t cheap for everyone, but considering the personalized attention, it’s often seen as a good value. This tour suits travelers who appreciate history, architecture, and a relaxed but informative pace, especially if you prefer avoiding large group tours or want a more tailored day in Savannah.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: The tour is private, meaning your guide can adjust the route based on what you most want to see.
• Convenience Included: Hotel pickup and air-conditioned transport make it easy to relax and focus on the sights.
• Rich Content: Guides are praised for their knowledge, storytelling, and friendly demeanor.
• Flexible Stops: You can enjoy views of historic squares, Victorian architecture, and Bonaventure Cemetery at your own pace.
• Great for First-Timers: It’s an efficient way to get a rundown of the city’s highlights.
• Cost-Effective for Some: At $175, it offers a lot of value for those who want a personalized, stress-free experience.

An Honest Look at the Itinerary and What You Can Expect

This tour is structured to give a well-rounded glimpse of Savannah’s layered history and stunning architecture, all while remaining flexible to your interests. It begins with a drive through the Savannah Historic District, where you’ll pass through some of the 22 famous squares. Here, the focus is on the picturesque homes, churches, inns, and museum buildings framed by live oak trees—a scene that’s quintessentially Savannah.

We’ve read that many find this part particularly charming, with guides sharing stories about the homes and the city’s early days. One reviewer noted, “Bill shared so many tidbits about the homes and history of the monuments and the naming of each square,” which really highlights how engaging and informative guide-led tours can be. The drive through this area allows you to soak in the ambiance without the fatigue of walking.

Next, the Victorian District is explored, showcasing late Victorian and Queen Anne architecture. This part of the tour is about 1.5 hours, giving enough time to admire the ornate details of these historic homes. It’s a lovely neighborhood that feels like stepping back in time—perfect for architecture buffs or anyone who appreciates vintage charm. Some reviews mention how the guides add context that makes these sights come alive, with one saying, “Bill was a great storyteller, sharing tidbits that made the homes’ stories stick.”

The visit to the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is brief but meaningful. You’ll admire the exterior of this historic church, which is a prominent feature of Savannah’s skyline. Many travelers find value in this quick stop, especially since it’s free to admire from outside. If you’re interested in religious architecture or local history, this is a nice highlight.

The crown jewel of the tour for many is the Bonaventure Cemetery. Located on a former plantation, this cemetery has gained fame from the book and film Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. The tour allows around 30 minutes here, giving you time to hop out for photos and take in the sculptures, moss-draped trees, and historic headstones. Several reviews emphasize that guides like Andy or Bill go beyond surface-level facts, pointing out interesting details that many visitors might miss. One review calls it “a must-see,” especially for those interested in Savannah’s unique character.

What the Tour Includes and Why It Matters

The main perks are private transportation and hotel pickup, which mean less hassle and more comfort. The vehicle is air-conditioned, which is a big plus, especially in the warmer months. Plus, bottled water is provided, so you stay refreshed during the tour.

Considering the price of $175 per person, the value largely depends on how much you enjoy guided experiences and personalized service. Many reviews mention guides like Andy and Bill being extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging, which amplifies the value. It’s clear that the quality of storytelling and local insights are among the biggest benefits.

The Real Experience—What Travelers Are Saying

Reviews consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and personable manner. One traveler, Heather, said, “Andy made us feel right at home,” highlighting how the guides make the experience more than just a sightseeing drive—they make it memorable. Another reviewer loved how the tour included “interesting stories and background info,” which helped connect the dots of Savannah’s history.

Comfort and flexibility are other recurring themes. Multiple reviewers mention how the van is “very comfortable” and how guides are accommodating with timing and stops—say, hopping out for photos or adjusting based on your interests.

The cemetery visit also receives special mention. One guest appreciated how the guide let her hop out for photos and was attentive to her favorite spots, making the experience feel personalized. Even rain didn’t dampen the tour’s quality, with one reviewer saying, “It was pouring rain the day we had our tour but it was excellent!”

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private excursion is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, relaxed way to see Savannah without feeling rushed. It’s particularly suited for first-time visitors who want a broad overview, but it’s also a good fit for those keen on architecture, history, and local stories. If you prefer having a guide who can adapt the experience, this tour offers that flexibility.

It’s less suited for those on a super tight budget, as $175 per person isn’t the lowest price, but if you value comfort, customization, and expert storytelling, many find it well worth the cost. It’s also a good option if you want to skip the hassle of navigating on your own or dealing with larger tour groups.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-rounded, personalized look at Savannah’s historic neighborhoods and famous cemetery, this private tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. The combination of knowledgeable guides, flexible stops, and a comfortable vehicle means you’ll leave with a solid understanding of what makes Savannah special—without the fatigue of walking endless streets.

Travelers who enjoy storytelling, architecture, and photography will especially appreciate the attention to detail and respect for your interests. The fact that many reviews highlight the guides’ friendliness and depth of knowledge makes it clear this experience is about more than just ticking boxes—it’s about creating a memorable visit.

At $175, it’s an investment in quality, especially if you’re craving a relaxing, informative day with a local expert. If Savannah is calling your name, this tour might just be the perfect way to start your adventure.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour is private and flexible, it’s generally adult-oriented, focusing on architecture, history, and cemeteries. If your kids enjoy stories and a relaxed ride, it could work, but it’s not specifically designed as a family tour.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 3 hours long, offering a quick yet rundown of Savannah’s highlights.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
No, the major stops like the squares, churches, and Bonaventure Cemetery are free to view from the outside, so no additional admission costs are necessary.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, this is a private tour, and guides are often praised for their ability to tailor the experience based on your interests.

What’s included in the price?
Your fare covers private transportation, an air-conditioned vehicle, and bottled water. Pickup from your hotel is included, which adds to the convenience.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, but if canceled due to rain or other weather issues, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Whether you’re a history lover, an architecture enthusiast, or simply want a relaxed way to get to know Savannah, this private tour offers a personal, informative, and comfortable way to experience the city’s best.