Atlanta to Savannah: Your Complete Guide From the A to the Coast

Planning a trip from Atlanta to Savannah—whether for a quick weekend escape, a coastal vacation, or a business visit—is one of the most common getaways for people in metro Atlanta. The route is straightforward, but your experience can be very different depending on how you choose to travel, when you go, and what you want to see along the way.

This guide walks you through all the main options for getting from Atlanta to Savannah, with practical tips tailored specifically to travelers starting in or around Atlanta, Georgia.

How Far Is It From Atlanta to Savannah?

For most Atlanta residents, the big questions are: How long is the drive? and What’s the easiest way to get there?

• Approximate distance: About 250–260 miles one way
• Typical driving time: Around 3.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on traffic and your exact starting point in metro Atlanta
• Primary route:I‑75 / I‑16 via downtown or the Connector

If you’re leaving from central Atlanta (Downtown, Midtown, or Buckhead), expect your total travel time to depend heavily on rush hour on the Downtown Connector (I‑75/85) and around Macon.

Main Ways to Travel from Atlanta to Savannah

Quick Comparison Overview

Driving from Atlanta to Savannah

For most people living in or visiting Atlanta, driving is the most convenient way to get to Savannah.

Main Driving Route

The standard route from central Atlanta is:

1. Start: Head south on I‑75/85 (the Downtown Connector).
2. Continue on I‑75 South toward Macon.
3. Near Macon, take I‑16 East toward Savannah.
4. Stay on I‑16 East until it ends near downtown Savannah.

From neighborhoods like Buckhead, Midtown, or Decatur, you’ll merge onto I‑75/85 or I‑20 and work your way to I‑75 South.

Approximate Driving Times from Common Atlanta Areas

• Downtown / Midtown Atlanta: 3.5–4 hours in light traffic
• Buckhead / Sandy Springs: 3.75–4.5 hours, depending on Connector and GA‑400 traffic
• Decatur / East Atlanta: 3.5–4.25 hours
• Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport area: Roughly 3.25–4 hours

When to Leave Atlanta

To avoid heavy traffic:

• Best times:
  • Weekdays: Late morning (10 a.m.–noon) or early afternoon
  • Weekends: Early morning is usually smoother
• Times to avoid if possible:
  • Weekday rush hours (6:30–9:00 a.m. and 3:30–7:00 p.m.), especially on I‑75/85
  • Friday afternoons leaving Atlanta (weekend getaway traffic)

Road Trip Tips for Atlanta Drivers

• Fuel stops: You’ll find plenty of options around McDonough, Forsyth, Macon, and along I‑16.
• Food breaks: Common places for Atlanta–Savannah travelers to stop include:
  • Macon area (rough midpoint)
  • Exits along I‑16 near Dublin or Metter
• Watch your speed: Portions of I‑16 are heavily monitored; speed limits can change near towns and construction zones.
• Weather considerations:
  • Summer: Heat and sudden storms—make sure your vehicle’s A/C and wipers are in good shape.
  • Winter: Ice is less common but possible in early morning hours; check conditions if a cold front is moving through Georgia.

Bus from Atlanta to Savannah

If you don’t want to drive or don’t have a car, buses are a common budget-friendly way to get from Atlanta to Savannah.

Typical Bus Experience

• Departure point: Usually near or in Downtown Atlanta (often close to MARTA access)
• Travel time: Around 4.5–6 hours, depending on route and stops
• Cost: Generally lower than flying and often lower than gas + parking for solo travelers
• Comfort: Varies by operator, but many long-distance buses offer reclining seats and restrooms

From many Atlanta neighborhoods, you can use MARTA to connect to your bus departure location, reducing the need for parking in downtown.

Tips for Atlanta Bus Travelers

• 🕒 Arrive early: Give yourself extra time for downtown traffic and parking or MARTA transfers.
• 🎒 Pack light but smart: Bring a light jacket (buses can be cool), snacks, and a phone charger/battery pack.
• 🚉 Use MARTA: From areas like Brookhaven, Sandy Springs, Decatur, or College Park, MARTA is often the simplest way to reach a central bus station.

Train from Atlanta to Savannah

There is Amtrak service in both Atlanta and Savannah, but the connection between these two cities is not as direct and convenient as drivers might expect.

What Atlanta Residents Should Know

• Atlanta’s main Amtrak station is near Midtown.
• Savannah has an Amtrak station west of downtown.
• However, train schedules often make the trip indirect or less time-efficient than driving or taking the bus.

People who do use the train are usually:

• Train enthusiasts who enjoy the experience itself
• Travelers connecting from longer-distance routes that already include Atlanta and Savannah as stops
• Those who prioritize a low-stress, scenic ride over speed

If you’re in Atlanta and simply want the fastest or most straightforward route to Savannah, most locals choose driving or flying instead.

Flying from Atlanta (ATL) to Savannah (SAV)

For some people in or passing through Atlanta, flying is the most practical choice—especially if:

• You’re already at Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
• You’re connecting from another city through ATL
• Your schedule is tight and you want to minimize time on the road

Key Flight Details

• Airports:
  • Departure: Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
  • Arrival: Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV)
• Flight time: Around 1 hour in the air
• Total trip time: Closer to 3–4 hours door-to-door when you include:
  • Travel from your Atlanta home/hotel to ATL
  • Security screening and boarding
  • Deplaning and traveling from SAV into downtown Savannah

When Flying Makes Sense from Atlanta

Flying can be worth it if:

• You live close to ATL (College Park, Hapeville, East Point)
• You’re already in the airport for another flight and adding Savannah as a connection
• You want to avoid driving altogether, especially for quick in-and-out trips

If you live in northern suburbs like Alpharetta, Marietta, or Cumming, the time you spend just getting to ATL plus security can make the total trip time similar to simply driving straight to Savannah.

Rideshare, Car Services, and Private Shuttles

Some Atlanta residents and visitors prefer not to drive themselves but still want a direct, door-to-door experience.

Rideshare (Atlanta → Savannah)

Using a rideshare app for a long-distance trip like Atlanta to Savannah is possible but can be:

• More expensive than bus or driving your own car
• Dependent on finding a driver who accepts a 250+ mile trip

This is usually not a day-to-day solution but may work for:

• Small groups splitting the fare
• Travelers who can’t or don’t want to drive and need to arrive on a specific schedule

Private Car and Shuttle Services

Some private transportation providers in the Atlanta region may offer:

• Point-to-point car service between Atlanta and Savannah
• Charter vans or minibuses for groups

These services are often used by:

• Corporate groups or business travelers
• Wedding parties (e.g., Atlanta-based guests traveling to a Savannah or Tybee Island event)
• Families or groups wanting a dedicated vehicle

If you’re considering this from Atlanta:

• Compare total cost vs. renting a car
• Confirm pick-up locations (home, hotel, or a set meeting point)
• Clarify luggage limits and any extra fees for stops along the way

Best Time of Year to Travel from Atlanta to Savannah

Because Atlanta and Savannah are both in Georgia, the weather patterns are similar, but Savannah is more humid and coastal.

Seasonal Considerations

• Spring (March–May):
  • Popular for Atlantans heading to Savannah for festivals and mild weather
  • Flowers and trees are in bloom; pleasant driving conditions
• Summer (June–August):
  • Hot and humid in both cities
  • Afternoon thunderstorms are common; allow a little buffer in your driving schedule
• Fall (September–November):
  • Generally comfortable weather and a popular time for weekend trips from Atlanta
• Winter (December–February):
  • Usually mild, but cold snaps are possible
  • Rare winter weather in Atlanta or central Georgia can affect driving, so check road conditions if a storm is forecast

If you’re planning an event trip—like a Savannah festival or holiday weekend—book transportation and lodging early, especially if traveling from metro Atlanta on a Friday.

Planning Your Trip from Specific Parts of Metro Atlanta

Atlanta’s size means your starting point inside the metro area can noticeably change your timing.

From the Airport Area (College Park / Hapeville / East Point)

• Driving:
  • Easy access to I‑285 and I‑75
  • Typically one of the fastest starting locations for a drive to Savannah
• Flying:
  • Very convenient—you’re already near Hartsfield‑Jackson ATL

From North Atlanta and Suburbs (Buckhead, Sandy Springs, Roswell, Alpharetta)

• Driving:
  • Account for extra time to get through or around the city core
  • Consider leaving before morning rush if heading out on a weekday
• Flying:
  • Add time for the drive or MARTA ride to ATL, plus parking or drop-off

From East Atlanta / Decatur / Stone Mountain

• Driving:
  • Good I‑20 and local access to downtown, then I‑75 South
  • Consider surface street routes to avoid the most congested Connector sections at peak times
• Bus or Train:
  • Strong access to MARTA rail for reaching downtown transit hubs or the Amtrak station

What Atlanta Travelers Should Pack and Plan For

Even though the trip from Atlanta to Savannah is relatively short, a little planning goes a long way.

Essentials for Drivers from Atlanta

• Valid driver’s license and insurance
• Vehicle check: fuel, tire pressure, coolant, and wiper fluid
• Phone charger and navigation app
• Snacks and water, especially if traveling with children
• Sunglasses: Driving east in the morning or west in the late afternoon can mean strong sun in your line of sight

Helpful Items for Bus, Train, or Flight Travelers

• Photo ID for check-in and security
• Light jacket or sweater (buses, trains, and planes can be cool)
• Noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs
• Medications and essentials in a carry-on or personal bag
• Comfortable walking shoes, especially if you’ll explore Savannah’s historic district right after arriving

Atlanta to Savannah: Choosing the Right Option for You

For most people in or visiting Atlanta, these rules of thumb help narrow things down:

• Choose driving if you want flexibility, plan to stay a few days, and are comfortable with a 3.5–4.5 hour road trip.
• Choose the bus if you’re budget-conscious, don’t have a car, or prefer not to drive yourself.
• Choose flying if you’re already at ATL, connecting through Atlanta, or need to move quickly on a tight schedule.
• Consider rideshare or private car service only if you value door-to-door convenience and are comfortable with a higher cost.

Starting from Atlanta gives you multiple viable ways to reach Savannah. Once you know your budget, schedule, and comfort level with driving, you can pick the option that fits your trip and enjoy the coast just a few hours away from the city.