Savannah: Old Town Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Savannah, Georgia, and want to soak up the city’s charm without the hassle of figuring out transportation or missing out on key sights, this Old Town Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour might just be worth your consideration. While I haven’t taken the tour myself, the reviews and details paint a pretty appealing picture for anyone eager to explore at their own pace.

What I love about this experience is how it combines convenient transportation with informative narration. Plus, the ability to hop on and off at over 15 locations gives you the flexibility to explore what interests you most. On the flip side, some reviews mention that the trolley fills up quickly, and the current hours could be a bit limiting if you’re hoping for a late evening ride. Still, if you’re someone who enjoys a relaxed, guided overview of a city with plenty of opportunities for personal exploration, this tour has a lot to offer.

This tour is especially suitable for first-time visitors or those who prefer guided yet flexible sightseeing. It’s also good for travelers who want to cover more ground in less time without the stress of public transit or walking long distances. Families or groups who like having the option to hop on and off as they go will find this especially handy.

Key Points

• Flexible exploration with a 1 or 2-day hop-on hop-off ticket.
• Entertaining and knowledgeable guides who narrate with humor and fact.
• Over 100 points of interest including historic squares, architecture, and cultural landmarks.
• Convenient stops near key attractions, with buses arriving approximately every 20 minutes.
• Good value for around $45, especially considering the extensive coverage.
• Partially outdoor experience with open-air trolley windows.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why We Think This Tour Works Well

Exploring Savannah can be overwhelming if you’re trying to do it on foot, especially in the heat or if you’re limited on time. The Old Town Trolley offers a comfortable way to see many of the city’s highlights without the exhaustion. The open-air design makes it easy to take in the sights and sounds as you cruise through charming streets lined with moss-draped oaks and stately historic homes.

The fact that the tour features live narration from guides who are described as friendly, knowledgeable, and often humorous is a big plus. Many reviews highlight guides like Red, Irish, and Cindy, who seem to bring the city’s stories to life. One reviewer even commented, “Red is the best guide,” which suggests you’re likely to have engaging storytelling along the way.

The itinerary includes stops at some of Savannah’s key sights, like Reynolds Square, Forsyth Park, and the Calhoun Square. Plus, you’ll get to visit locations such as the Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens and the historic homes of the Juliette Gordon Low Historic District. The flexibility to hop off at these spots and explore on your own is a real advantage, especially if you want to linger at particular sites or grab lunch nearby.

What to Expect on the Tour

When you buy your ticket, you’ll get a 2-day pass that grants unlimited hop-on hop-off rides for the duration. This allows you to start your sightseeing at your own pace, whether that’s spending a whole day or splitting your exploration between days.

The 15 stops are strategically placed near many of Savannah’s famed attractions, including the Savannah Visitor Center, Ellis Square, City Market, River Street, and Colonial Park Cemetery. When you board, expect a friendly conductor who will give you a schedule and a map—both essential to navigating your day.

The ride itself feels like a cross between transportation and entertainment, what some call Transportainment. Guides narrate stories, trivia, and humorous tales as the trolley moves through the city. They often share details about the local architecture, notable residents, and historical events, adding context to what you see outside the window.

Some reviewers mention that the trolleys arrive every 20 minutes, which is pretty reasonable. However, during busy times, they can fill up quickly, and the wait for the next trolley might be longer if you’re unlucky. One user noted, “The trolleys fill up quickly,” so arriving early or during off-peak hours could improve your experience.

Detailed Breakdown of Stops and Sights

Downtown and Historic Districts

The tour covers Savannah’s historic core, including sites like Reynolds Square, where you’ll see the statue of John Wesley, and the charming Juliette Gordon Low Historic District, home to the founder of Girl Scouts. Stopping at the Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens offers a peaceful retreat into lush greenery and a chance to see diverse plant collections.

More Great Tours Nearby

Architectural Marvels and Squares

Drive past avenues lined with magnolia trees draped in Spanish moss—a quintessential Savannah scene. The trolley makes stops at Forsyth Park, renowned for its iconic fountain, and Calhoun Square, where historic homes and elegant architecture await.

Cultural Landmarks

The Cathedral of St. John Baptist and City Market are also on the route, giving you a taste of Savannah’s cultural and social hubs. You’ll also see the River Street area, famous for its shops, restaurants, and lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings.

Special Attractions

For those interested in gardens and natural beauty, the Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens is a highlight. The Bamboo Farm is another stop that adds a different dimension to your Savannah experience, offering a peaceful walk amid towering bamboo groves.

Practical Aspects of the Tour

Duration and Schedule

The tour runs over 2 days, giving you ample time to explore. The hourly pick-up schedule is convenient, and the live narration makes each ride engaging. Notably, the tour start time may vary, especially during special events like the Martin Luther King Parade, when the tour begins at 1:00 pm.

Cost and Value

At $45 per person, the price is quite reasonable considering the extensive route and the flexibility it offers. The reviews indicate that many travelers find the value to be good, especially since you can hop on and off as many times as you like within the ticket window.

Accessibility and Policies

The trolley is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs. However, pets, smoking, and large luggage are not allowed onboard, which is typical for this type of tour.

Additional Perks

The tour provides discount coupons to attractions and restaurants, which can help you save money during your stay. It’s a nice bonus that adds to the overall value.

The Real Experience: What Travelers Say

A glance through the reviews shows a very positive consensus. Travelers often praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides, with mentions of guides like Red, Cindy, and Irish for their humor and storytelling skills. One person shared, “Our tour guide Justice was amazing. She was very engaging, relayed historical information accurately & with a sense of humor, as well as made many recommendations for local eateries & points of interest.”

Many reviewers highlight the convenience of the hop-on hop-off format, saying it allowed them to plan their day efficiently and visit multiple sites without the stress of navigating public transportation. A guest mentioned, “It was a lot of fun. The guides are very informative,” emphasizing how the narration enhances the experience.

Some reviews touch on logistical aspects like trolley crowding—it can fill up quickly, so arriving early or during quieter times may improve your chances of a comfortable ride. A few guests also expressed a desire for longer evening hours to enjoy dinner or night views, as the tour stops around 5 or 7 pm.

The Sum Up

All in all, the Savannah Old Town Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour offers a friendly, flexible, and informative way to see the city. Its combination of live storytelling, historical sights, and the freedom to explore at your own pace makes it a solid choice for first-timers or those wanting to maximize their visit without tiring out too quickly.

The tour’s affordable price point, coupled with well-placed stops and engaging guides, means you’re likely to come away with a good understanding of Savannah’s character and history—plus some personal favorites to revisit later.

While it’s not perfect—crowding and limited late-evening hours are points to consider—it remains a very practical and enjoyable way to get a broad overview of Georgia’s oldest city. If you appreciate guided tours that let you customize your day and enjoy lively storytelling, this tour is almost certainly worth your while.

FAQ

How much does the tour cost?
It is $45 per person for a 2-day hop-on hop-off ticket, which many see as good value given the extensive coverage.

How long is the tour?
You can enjoy the tour over 2 days, with buses arriving approximately every 20 minutes at the stops.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews consistently praise the guides for being well-informed, friendly, and humorous. Many have favorite guides like Red and Irish.

Can I hop off and explore?
Absolutely. The tour is designed for hopping on and off at over 15 stops, so you can explore specific sites and return easily.

Is the trolley accessible?
Yes, the trolley is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

What are the main stops?
Stops include the Savannah Visitor Center, Ellis Square, Forsyth Park, City Market, River Street, Colonial Park Cemetery, and more.

What should I bring?
Bring your voucher (printed or mobile), some water, and comfortable shoes for exploring once off the trolley.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly marketed as family-focused, the guided narration and easy hop-on hop-off format make it suitable for all ages.

What if I want to stay out late?
Current hours may end around 5-7 pm, so for late dinners or evening activities, plan accordingly or check if later hours are available during your visit.

What if I want a different experience?
There are other tours like ghost walks, river cruises, and dining cruises, which can complement this sightseeing tour for a fuller Savannah experience.

In essence, this trolley tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to get to know Savannah’s core, especially if you value guided storytelling and the freedom to explore at your own pace. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, it’s a solid choice to see the city without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

You can check availability for your dates here: