Sarasota to Savannah train

A culturally-rich alternative to the nearby theme parks of Orlando, Sarasota's Gulf Coast location is hard to resist. It became the winter base for many well-to-do families in the early twentieth century, during which time much of the town developed a subtle Italian feel.

Not only is the climate similar to what you might experience in southern Italy, but many of Sarasota's buildings were constructed to resemble the country's renaissance masterworks too. A good example is the Ringling family's Ca' d'Zan Venetian-style mansion.

The Ringlings made their money from circuses before giving their name to the much-celebrated John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. It contains 21 galleries of European paintings, archaeological artifacts, and American art totaling 10,000 objects.

With weather so fine, you'll probably be looking with more than half an eye at Sarasota's numerous excellent resorts and beaches, many of which lie on a group of keys within the city limits. Bonus: our research ranked Sarasota as the #3 cheapest Spring Break destination, so you can soak up the sun on the cheap.

Arriving in Sarasota is equally easy thanks to its Cattleman Transfer Centre and Fruitville Road bus stations. Between them, travelers can connect by bus everywhere from Tampa to Tucson. Amtrak also operates a Thruway bus service from the defunct Sarasota rail station to Tampa for onward connections by train on the Silver Service. This service runs between Miami and New York City via Washington, D.C.

As the oldest city in the state of Georgia, Savannah still impressively preserves a charming vibe that so many cities have lost. For fans of U.S. history, the city is a must-not-miss, as it houses one of the oldest Black churches in the country, the First African Baptist Church. Fort Pulaski, famous for being a safe haven for enslaved African Americans, has now been converted into a national monument where visitors can learn more about the city’s heritage. Among the most unique destinations in Savannah is the 100-year-old Bonaventure Cemetery, which serves as the final resting place for many famous people.

Savannah's cuisine is just one of many reasons the city ranks in the best vacation destinations in Georgia. Savannah offers staple Southern fried dishes that will indulge your senses. The best place to try these indulgences is The Olde Pink House. If you are looking for some black-owned eateries, Sisters Real Southern Cooking and Geneva’s Famous Chicken & Cornbread Co. will suffice.

Visitors can reach Savannah by bus via service from several different bus carriers, most of which operate out of the bus terminal at 610 W Oglethorpe Ave. The local Amtrak station takes on the Palmetto, and the Silver Meteor and Silver Star trains. The principal airport in the city, the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, sits 8 miles northwest of the Savannah Historic District, and it also provides quick access to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.