Hotels cheaper then VRBO in historic center

Researching early March return to Savannah and surprisingly it appears that the short term rentals that we have looked at are pricier then hotels in the HD.

Has the supply of hotels increased dramatically in the 12 years since we were last there? Grateful for opinions of folks.

Over the past decade, Savannah has seen a significant increase in hotel supply, particularly in the Historic District. Boutique hotels, historic inns, and well-known chains have expanded their presence, which has somewhat balanced pricing compared to VRBO and other short-term rentals. VRBO and Airbnb properties in the Historic District often come with high nightly rates because many are fully furnished homes with multiple bedrooms, prime locations, and added amenities.

In contrast, hotels in the Historic District can sometimes be cheaper for solo travelers, couples, or small groups, especially if you are booking in advance or during non-peak periods. Many hotels offer competitive rates because they cater to shorter stays and have standardized amenities, which can be more cost-effective than a full short-term rental.

Some notable points to consider:

  • The number of boutique and historic hotels has grown, especially along Bay Street, near River Street, and around the squares in the Historic District.
  • Short-term rentals often charge cleaning fees, service fees, and taxes, which can make them more expensive than the base hotel rate.
  • March is generally a good time to visit Savannah as the weather is pleasant and early spring tourism is moderate, which can make hotel deals attractive.

Suggestions if you want to stay cheaper than VRBO in the Historic District:

  • Look for smaller historic inns or boutique hotels that may not appear on mainstream booking sites.
  • Consider hotels that are slightly outside the very center of the Historic District but within walking distance of key attractions.
  • Check for early booking discounts, package deals, or direct booking incentives from hotels.
  • Use comparison websites and apps to see total cost including taxes and fees, as VRBO can sometimes appear cheaper until those extras are added.

Overall, yes—the hotel supply has increased and there are good opportunities to find cheaper options than VRBO, especially if you are flexible with your exact location within the Historic District.


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