Richly endowed by nature, the Deep South state of Georgia works hard to make its hospitality standards worthy of its fabulous forests, coastal lagoons, islands, mountains and wealth of historical attractions. The effort has paid off magnificently; this largely rural corner of Dixieland is a visitors' delight, offering almost unlimited variety. The best places to stay in Georgia put you in easy reach of something for everyone when it comes to family holiday fun..

With its pleasant, though sometimes sultry, subtropical climate, Georgia is one of the USA’s agricultural breadbaskets, hence the use of the peach as the state symbol. Fruit , cereals and greens all grow in profusion and this landscape perfectly sets off the elegance and beauty of the stately antebellum (pre-Civil War) architecture which has a flavour all its own.

Northerners – including President Franklin Delano Roosevelt who for years enjoyed R&R at Warm Springs GA – discovered the delights of Georgia as a place to warm the bones. Today’s visitors are not content to stay static in one place, and why should they? Not when the opportunities – rafting, hiking, biking, live music and golfing among many others – are available to such a magnificent standard.

What Not To Miss

• World of Coca-Cola: It helps if you like the stuff, but even so, this is a fascinating family trip looking into the rise of the world’s most popular soft drink and the business branding phenomenon surrounding it.
• Stone Mountain: Georgia had a starring role in the US Civil War (1861-865) and Confederate monuments are everywhere. None more spectacular than Stone Mountain, the somewhat controversial giant relief carving of the South’s great military heroes.
• Georgia Aquarium: One of America’s finest. A great way to keep everyone amused in Atlanta. Leaders in conservation as well as presenting sea life in the most entertaining way.
• Golfers can rave about St Simon's Island where every property has its own course.
• Atlanta is one of America’s most progressive cities, while the coastal centres like Savannah are a byword for old world elegance but it’s the landscape, with a profusion of magnolia and host of other flowers that will inspire you to go out and explore for yourself.

Our pick of the best places to stay in Georgia has something to suit all tastes from luxurious city pads to beach side resorts and charming B&Bs.

The best places to stay in Georgia

For urban explorers

• In the heart of Atlanta’s city centre, W Atlanta Downtown, is ideal for the nightlife and attractions like the Georgia Aquarium, Centennial Olympic Park, Georgia World Congress Center and the Georgia Dome. It comes with a seriously trendy aesthetic, great spa and fitness centre
• By contrast, you could try the Stonehurst Place, a delightful old world B&B in the heart of the Atlanta full of reminders of the city’s 19th Century heritage, A unique combination of impeccable preservation and modern amenities
• The Mandarin Oriental Atlanta offers all the top grade quality and luxury you would expect from this upmarket brand, but with an overlay of Southern charm and smooth sophistication.
• Ballastone Inn, a B&B in the heart of Savannah Historical District is romantic and intimate. Unique rooms have four-poster beds, plush linens and private bathrooms. Breakfast is a southern affair for all guests. In the evening the bar awaits. A great location that is ideal for exploring the city on foot.
• If you're after a lively property The Brice is a Coca-Cola top shop turned into a contemporary landmark on the heels of Jackson Square. Large rooms offer all mod-cons and city views, marble bathrooms and access to library, pool and business facilities. Pacci serves Italian cuisine and the bar is great for a nightcap. Explore by bike or on foot.

For luxury

• Ideally located River Street Inn is an 1817 former cotton store overlooking the Savannah River, historical architecture meets contemporary luxury. Large and light rooms wrapped around a central atrium with private balconies. Bernie's offers seafood and local cuisine accompanied with live music and fine bar selection. A prime spot in town.
• If you're after a chic and central property, The Ellis is a stylish, boutique hotel set in a historic 1913 building, renovated inside with light and bright contemporary designs. A full service terrace bistro and a bar with a balcony overlooking the vibrant PeachTree Street. Luxurious, comfortable and totally hip.
• Andaz Savannah, this urban contemporary hotel offers a pool, business and fitness centre. Large, modern rooms with city views and all the mod-cons. 22 Square offers delicious handcrafted cocktails and the food represents the flavours of the South. Relax on the sun deck poolside or head into the historical district.

For beach boys and girls

• For the perfect setting, great golf, ocean views and friendly southern hospitality, try the King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort, St Simon’s Island. This upmarket resort comes with great restaurants, boutique shopping and offers eco-adventures for all the family.
• The Lodge At Sea Island regularly wins top hotel trophies as a premier hideaway resort for seekers of luxury and privacy. With distinctive architecture designed to recreate an English country manor, it also has that unmistakable feel of the heyday of the old South, not to mention two 18-hole championship courses. Also, interestingly, bagpipe lessons!

For Southern comfort-seekers

• The Azalea Inn & Gardens in Savannah is a classic southern town house hotel,with pillars and porches, located in the Garden District easily walkable from downtown. The owners have a marvellous hospitality ethic and everything about it - from the shrimp-and-grits breakfast to the pool and fountain - is enticing.
• The Smith House is a traditional hostelry located in the Appalachian town of Dahlonega, and has been open for business since 1899 dispensing Southern hospitality. It prides itself on its home cooking; fried chicken, sweet baked ham, fresh steamed vegetables; homemade yeast rolls and corn muffins that melt in your mouth. What’s not to like?
• Greyfield Inn is a historic country house located on Cumberland Island - just a short distance from the beach. Elegant and traditional accommodation with ornate beds and Persian rugs. Wander around their 200 acres of private garden and breathe in the sea air! A simply stunning coastal retreat.
• Ideal for making the most of the great outdoors, The Stephen Williams House is a 1834 Federal mansion turned intimate boutique B&B, decked with antiques and in a prime location. All five rooms are unique, cosy and display an intimate charm. Breakfast is served at your convenience. A peaceful garden provides sanctuary after a day of exploring the fascinating historical Savannah.

For an apartment or cottage

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option this holiday - don't hesitate to visit our online partner Booking.com for a great range of properties to suit holidays of all types.

Travel Information

• Fly to Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport located 13.5km (8.4 miles) from Atlanta with a wide selection of domestic and International flights.
• Alternatively, Georgia is well-served by Amtrak rail routes which connect the state to destinations all over the U.S.
• If you want to rent a car to explore this beautiful state - for prices visit our online partner Rentalcars
• Best time to visit - to make the most of the stunning natural assets, visit in Spring from March to May for pleasant temperatures and many of the state's festivals.

Still not sure?

• Browse through our pick of all the best places to stay in Georgia,
• Expand your search to include our recommendations in Florida Keys or Jacksonville
• Or contact one of our friendly gurus for advice.