Looking For a Cottage in Savannah, GA? Here Are 10 Things You Should Know

Welcome to Savannah—where Spanish moss drips from live oaks, the air smells like pralines near River Street, and every stroll through the squares feels like a postcard you get to step into. And instead of a cookie-cutter hotel room, you’re thinking about booking a cottage where you can actually live like a local. Smart move, friend.

Before you hit that “book now” button, here are a few things you’ll want to know about renting a cottage in Savannah, GA. From slow mornings with coffee on a porch to afternoons wandering Forsyth Park and the Historic District, this is your insider guide to choosing the perfect home away from home in one of the South’s most unforgettable cities.

1. Historic Charm Isn't Just a Buzzword Here, It's the Real Deal

Savannah is one of the most well-preserved historic cities in the United States, and that extends to its cottages too. Many vacation rentals here have been carefully retrofitted to meet historic preservation guidelines. Translation? You get to enjoy original architectural details, think heart pine floors, vintage moldings, and charming fireplaces, alongside all the modern conveniences you need.

These aren't just "old houses." They're pieces of living history that have been lovingly updated with air conditioning, upgraded kitchens, and contemporary bathrooms. You'll feel like you've stepped back in time, but you definitely won't be roughing it.

2. The "Southern Bungalow" Style Is Everything You've Imagined (And More)

If you've ever scrolled through vacation rental photos and stopped dead in your tracks at a charming porch with rocking chairs, chances are you were looking at a Southern bungalow. This quintessential style is all over Savannah, and it's absolutely perfect for a getaway.

Southern bungalows typically feature wide front porches, cozy interiors, and that laid-back vibe that makes you want to slow down and sip sweet tea all afternoon. At Crafters Cottage, we've curated a collection of these beauties, like our Charming Southern Bungalow, that capture everything magical about this architectural style while giving you smart TVs, fully equipped kitchens, and all the comforts of home.

3. LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION: Downtown Buzz vs. Cottage-Quiet Charm

Here’s something a lot of first-time visitors don’t realize until they arrive: Savannah stays can feel totally different depending on where you plant your suitcase. You’ve got options—and each one gives you a different “Savannah story.”

Downtown Savannah (Modern + Walkable): Want to wake up and wander to Forsyth Park, the city squares, River Street, coffee shops, and cocktails without touching your car? Our downtown properties are newer and modern, with the fresh finishes and easy-living setup you want after a full day of exploring.

Bloomingdale, GA (Vintage + Classic Southern Charm): Prefer a quieter, more laid-back home base where you can breathe, spread out, and enjoy that “classic cottage” vibe? Our cottages in Bloomingdale, GA are the older, vintage ones—the kind of places that lean into that historic, lived-in charm (think cozy character and timeless Southern warmth).

Between Downtown and the Beach: Looking for the best of both worlds? Some stays make it easy to enjoy Savannah’s iconic sights and sneak off to Tybee Island for salty air and sandy toes (about 20 minutes to the beach).

Our 1950s Cottage is a great example of that “close enough to everything, calm enough to truly relax” sweet spot.

4. Pet-Friendly Options Actually Exist (Hallelujah!)

Traveling with your four-legged bestie? You're in luck. Many Savannah cottages welcome pets, which means Fido doesn't have to miss out on the adventure. 🐾

Some properties do charge a pet fee and may have size or breed limits, so always double-check the details before booking. But the good news is that between the fenced yards and porches many cottages offer, your pup will probably have an even better vacation than you.

5. Kitchens Are Fully Equipped

Let's talk about one of the best perks of cottage living: having your own kitchen. At Crafters Cottage, you can expect kitchens that feel normal-sized and easy to use—perfect for everything from quick breakfasts to a full dinner after a day of exploring.

Our kitchens are fully equipped and stocked with what you need to cook, snack, and settle in. And yes, coffee is covered: you'll have both a Keurig and a drip coffee maker so you can do mornings your way. Bonus: having a real kitchen makes it simple to save a little money on dining out (or just enjoy your coffee in your pajamas—no judgment here).

6. Outdoor Living Spaces Are a Huge Part of the Experience

One of the best things about staying in a Savannah cottage? The outdoor spaces. We're talking fenced yards perfect for pets, screened porches where you can escape the bugs, private decks for evening cocktails, and front porches with swings that practically beg you to sit and watch the world go by.

Many properties also feature gardens, courtyards, or patios where you can enjoy the famous Savannah weather. And let's be honest: is there anything more Southern than sipping sweet tea on a porch swing? We think not.

7. Two Different Vibes—Both Packed With Comfort

Here’s where Crafters Cottage really shines: you don’t have to choose between “cute” and “comfortable.” You just get to choose the style of Savannah experience you want.

• Downtown stays = brand new + modern. Fresh, polished, and super easy—perfect when you want to explore the Historic District all day and come back to a clean, contemporary space at night.
• Bloomingdale cottages = older + vintage charm. Cozy, character-filled, and classic—ideal if you love that nostalgic Southern feel (and you want a quieter home base just outside the city).

Across our curated Savannah-area collection, you’ll find the modern essentials that make vacation life simple:

• Smart TVs for streaming after a day of squares + sightseeing
• High-speed WiFi for planning, posting, or remote work
• Fully equipped kitchens with modern appliances
• Comfortable, quality bedding because sleep matters
• Climate control to keep you comfy year-round

No matter which vibe you pick, you’ll have everything you need to relax in your own slice of Southern heaven.

8. Parking Situations Vary: Here's What to Expect

This is one of those practical details that can make or break a trip, so let's address it head-on. Parking in Savannah varies depending on where your cottage is located.

Downtown stays: Street parking is common downtown, but we do have two downtown properties with great parking:

• Bay Street Beauty includes a dedicated parking pass for the Whitaker Street garage.
• Wharfside Whimsy has its own private garage plus out-front parking (with street parking available too).

Properties outside the downtown: These often come with free driveway parking (and sometimes garage parking), which is a nice perk if you're traveling with a lot of luggage or gear.

Always check the parking notes on your specific listing before you book so there are no surprises when you arrive.

9. Cottages Are Perfect for Couples, Small Groups, and Longer Stays

Savannah cottages have an intimate feel that makes them ideal for certain types of travelers. If you're planning a romantic getaway, a girls' weekend, or a small family trip, a cottage is absolutely the way to go.

The cozy layouts encourage quality time together, and having your own space (with a kitchen and outdoor areas) makes longer stays super comfortable. Whether you're here for a weekend or settling in for a few weeks, cottage living just hits different.

Plus, there’s something special about coming “home” to your own little slice of Southern heaven after a day spent shopping on Broughton Street, strolling the oak-lined squares, grabbing a scoop on River Street, snapping photos at Wormsloe, or stuffing yourself with biscuits at a local brunch spot.

10. Booking Through a Curated Collection Makes All the Difference

With so many vacation rentals out there, how do you know you're getting a quality property? That's where booking through a curated collection like Crafters Cottage comes in.

We personally select each property in our portfolio to ensure it meets our standards for comfort, cleanliness, and that unmistakable Southern charm. Every cottage, bungalow, and retreat in our collection has been chosen because it offers something special: whether that's a killer location, unique character, or those thoughtful amenities that turn a good trip into a great one.

When you book with us, you're not just getting a place to sleep. You're getting a genuine Savannah experience wrapped up in a welcoming home that feels like it was made just for you.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Savannah Cottage?

Now that you know what to expect, you're all set to find the cottage of your dreams. Whether you're drawn to the historic charm of a 1950s gem, the laid-back vibes of a Southern bungalow, or a spot that puts you close to both downtown and the beach, Savannah has a cottage waiting for you.

Browse our full collection of properties to find your perfect match, and get ready to fall in love with this beautiful corner of Georgia. We can't wait to welcome you! 🌞