Quick Answer
The fastest and most convenient way from Savannah Airport (SAV) to City Market is by taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft), taking 25-35 minutes and costing $30-$50. The cheapest way is the public CAT Route 3X bus for just $1.50, but it takes 45-60 minutes. For a balance of comfort and value, consider a pre-booked shared shuttle.
Shared & Private Shuttles
A cost-effective middle ground between public transit and private taxis, ideal for solo travelers or couples.
Types of Shuttles Available:
- Shared-Ride Shuttles (e.g., Savannah Belles Ferry Connector): Pre-booked service that may make multiple stops downtown. Fares: $20-$35 per person. Source: Savannah Belles Charters.
- Private Vans/Shuttles: Book entire vehicle for your party. Ideal for groups of 5-10. Prices start around $75-$120 per trip.
Booking & Experience:
You must pre-book online or by phone. Upon arrival, call the provider; they will direct you to a waiting area. Wait times for shared shuttles can be 10-20 minutes as they coordinate multiple passengers.
Pros & Cons:
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Cheaper than taxi for 1-2 people | Requires advance planning/booking |
| Direct to your hotel (if downtown) | Shared ride can take longer with multiple stops |
| Fixed price, no surge fees | Limited schedule for late-night arrivals |
Public Bus: Chatham Area Transit (CAT) Route 3X "Airport Express"
The most budget-friendly option by far, connecting the airport to downtown Savannah.
Detailed Route & Instructions:
- Find the Bus Stop: Exit the terminal, turn left, and walk to the ground transportation center. Look for CAT bus signs.
- Schedule & Fare:
- Operating Hours: Approximately 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM (check current schedule on CAT's official website).
- Fare: $1.50 exact change or use the CAT Smart Card. Transfers may be available.
- Frequency: Every 40-60 minutes.
- The Ride & Arrival: The trip takes 45-60 minutes. The closest stop to City Market is at Barnard and Bryan Streets, about a 5-10 minute walk.
Important Considerations:
- Luggage: Limited space. Not suitable for large groups with lots of bags.
- Reliability: Subject to city traffic delays.
- Accessibility: Buses are wheelchair accessible.
Rental Car at Savannah Airport
Best for travelers planning extensive exploration beyond Savannah's walkable historic district.
On-Site Rental Agencies & Process:
All major agencies (Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, etc.) are located in the Rental Car Pavilion, a short shuttle ride from the terminal (free, continuous service).
Drive to City Market:
- Route: Take I-95 North to I-16 East (Exit 99). Follow I-16 to downtown exits (e.g., Montgomery St).
- Distance/Time: ~12 miles, 25-35 minutes drive.
- Parking Challenge: City Market area has metered street parking and paid garages (e.g., State Street Garage, Whitaker Street Garage). Rates average $2-$3/hour or $15-$25/day. Source: City of Savannah Parking.
Cost Breakdown (Estimate for 2-day rental):
| Item | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|
| Compact Car Rental (per day) | $35-$60 |
| Insurance (optional but recommended) | $15-$30/day |
| Parking (2 days in garage) | $30-$50 |
| Fuel (for local driving) | $20-$30 |
| Estimated Total | $100-$170+ |
Cost & Time Comparison: Savannah Airport to City Market
Use this table to quickly compare all options at a glance.
| Transport Method | Approx. Cost (One Way) | Travel Time | Best For | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | $35 - $50 | 25-35 min | Groups (3-4), Convenience | Metered, 24/7 |
| Uber/Lyft | $30 - $45 | 25-35 min | Solo/Couples, Tech-savvy | Surge pricing possible |
| Shared Shuttle | $20 - $35 per person | 35-50 min | Solo/Couples on a budget | Pre-booking required |
| Public Bus (CAT 3X) | $1.50 per person | 45-60 min | Budget travelers | Limited luggage, schedule |
| Rental Car | $35+/day + parking & fuel | 25-35 min | Exploring beyond Savannah | Parking costs & availability |
Verdict: For most tourists, taxi/rideshare offers the best balance of speed and simplicity. For the ultimate savings, the CAT 3X bus is unbeatable.
Savannah Traveler Tips & Experience
Insider Advice for a Smooth Transfer:
- Traffic & Timing: Avoid scheduling a tight connection upon arrival. Rush hour (4-6 PM) can double travel time from the airport to downtown.
- Luggage Strategy: Savannah's historic district (including City Market) is best explored on foot. If you have large suitcases, consider taking a taxi directly to your hotel even if you plan to use buses later.
- Wi-Fi & Connectivity: SAV offers free airport Wi-Fi. Use this to book your rideshare or check bus schedules immediately upon arrival.
- Weather Contingency: Have a backup plan. Summer afternoon thunderstorms are common and can cause traffic snarls and longer waits for rideshares.
- Cash vs. Card: While cards are widely accepted, having $10-$20 in small bills is useful for bus fare (exact change), taxi tips, or if a card reader is down.
- Verify Your Drop-Off: "City Market" is an open-air area. Ensure your driver knows the exact cross streets or your hotel name if staying nearby (e.g., "The Cotton Sail Hotel", "Holiday Inn Express").
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the fastest way to get from Savannah Airport to City Market?
The fastest way is by taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft), taking 25-35 minutes depending on traffic, with a direct door-to-door service.
What is the cheapest way to travel from SAV to City Market?
The cheapest option is the public Chatham Area Transit (CAT) Route 3X 'Airport Express' bus, costing only $1.50 per person, though it takes about 45-60 minutes and requires a short walk from the bus stop.
Are there direct shuttle buses from Savannah Airport to downtown?
There is no dedicated hotel shuttle loop. However, shared-ride shuttles like Savannah Belles Ferry Connector (pre-booked) and private shuttle services offer direct transfers to downtown hotels near City Market for $20-$35 per person.
How much is a taxi from Savannah Airport to City Market?
A metered taxi fare typically ranges from $35 to $50 for the 12-mile trip, not including tip. The fare is fixed per vehicle, not per person, making it cost-effective for groups of 3-4.
Can I use Uber or Lyft at Savannah Airport?
Yes, both Uber and Lyft operate freely at SAV. Designated pick-up zones are outside the baggage claim. Fares are comparable to taxis, often $30-$45, with potential surge pricing during peak hours or events.
Is it easy to rent a car at SAV and drive to City Market?
Yes. All major rental agencies are on-site. The drive takes 25-35 mins via I-95/I-16. However, parking in City Market can be expensive and limited, so renting is best if you plan to explore beyond Savannah.
What should I do if my flight arrives late at night?
Taxis and rideshares are your only reliable options after ~10:00 PM when public transit stops. Pre-booking a private transfer is highly recommended for late-night arrivals to guarantee service.
Is the route wheelchair accessible?
Taxis, rideshares (request accessible vehicle in app), and rental cars offer accessible options. The CAT 3X bus is also wheelchair accessible. Contact shuttle services in advance to confirm vehicle availability.