You've arrived in Savannah, the Hostess City. Now comes the big decision: how are you going to see all those beautiful squares, magnificent mansions, and hidden gardens?
For many, the default is the classic trolley. It's easy, you're off your feet, and it covers a lot of ground. But "easy" isn't always "best." If you want to truly feel the city's charm, breathe the Spanish moss air, and get an authentic, local perspective, you need to ditch the giant shuttle and hop on a bike.
Here are the four biggest reasons a Savannah Bike Tour is the superior way to experience our historic city.
1. You Get Up-Close and Personal (The Trolley Just Waves Hello)
When you're rolling in a big trolley, you're essentially viewing Savannah through a window. The tour moves along busy main roads, often skirting the edges of the historic squares.
On a bike tour, you get to stop inside the squares, dismount, and walk a few steps to admire the intricate architecture, touch the centuries-old brickwork, and stand beneath the massive, moss-draped oak trees.
The Difference:
Trolley: You see the sights from a distance as you pass by.
Bike Tour: You are immersed in the sights, able to pause for the perfect, uninterrupted photo, and explore the details the trolley can't reach.
2. Uncover the Hidden and Quiet Corners
Trolleys are limited to public roads and thoroughfares. If the pavement is too narrow or the street is residential, they have to drive right on past.
Savannah’s best-kept secrets—the quiet, residential streets, the hidden courtyard entrances, the most charming Victorian alleyways—are the ones that buses can’t fit down. Our bike routes are deliberately designed to glide through these lesser-worn paths, giving you a deeper, more authentic view of Savannah’s local life that most tourists never see.
3. It's a Healthy Adventure (Not Just a Ride)
Let's face it: after a day of Southern dining, a little activity feels great! Savannah's historic district is flat, making it the perfect place for an easy, leisurely ride. You'll cover more ground than you could on a walking tour, but you’ll do it actively, enjoying the fresh air and a cooling breeze.
For those who want less effort, we offer e-bikes, letting you fly up the occasional small incline without breaking a sweat. It’s a great way to sightsee without feeling cooped up, crowded, or passive.
The Difference:
Trolley: Passive, noisy, and potentially stuffy or crowded.
Bike Tour: Active, quiet, and refreshing, connecting you directly to the environment.
4. You Get a Rolling Concierge, Not a Scripted Narration
Trolley guides have to follow a script designed for hundreds of passengers over a multi-stop loop. That often means focusing only on major landmarks and keeping to a tight schedule.
Our bike tours feature small group sizes and engaging, local guides. This allows for a much more personal experience. You can ask more questions, get spontaneous recommendations, and chat about local life.
Your guide will finish the tour by acting as your "rolling concierge," pointing out the best hidden brunch spots, the locals' favorite coffee shop, and the least touristy bar, ensuring you are set up for a fantastic rest of your trip.
The Bottom Line: Choose Experience Over Convenience
The Old Town Trolley is a decent option if you want a quick, surface-level overview. But if you want to immerse yourself in Savannah's charm, glide down the quietest streets, get an intimate view of the history, and leave with insider tips only a local knows, the choice is clear. Skip the big bus and Pedal Through History® with us!
Ready to roll? Book your Savannah Bike Tour today and start your adventure!