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Planning a trip to Charleston? We’ve got you covered!
We didn’t expect Charleston to get under our skin the way it did, but between the pastel facades, shady verandas, and salty sea breeze, it’s a place that stays with you. There’s a calm energy here, even in the busiest parts of town, and a strong sense of pride in the people who call it home.
In this guide, we’re sharing 10 incredible tours that really brought the city to life for us, from hidden history walks and boat rides through the marshes to food tastings that still have us dreaming.
If you’re ready to experience the heart of Charleston, one unforgettable stop at a time, let’s get into it!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Charleston was this historic horse and carriage tour. We explored the city at a super relaxed pace and took some of the best photos from our trip!
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice
- Things to do in Charleston, South Carolina
- 1. See the city’s alleyways and historic sites with a local guide
- 2. Explore Charleston’s historic streets on a horse & carriage ride
- 3. Learn Civil War history at Fort Sumter
- 4. See Charleston from the water and relax on a private sailboat
- 5. Discover Charleston’s haunted history on a ghost walking tour
- 6. Take an eco boat cruise to Morris Island Lighthouse
- 7. Taste your way around Charleston
- 8. See Charleston from the water on a guided kayak adventure
- 9. Visit the Middleton Place Plantation
- 10. Learn about prohibition in a speakeasy cocktail-making class
- Where to Stay in Charleston, South Carolina
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in the USA
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Charleston, South Carolina
1. See the city’s alleyways and historic sites with a local guide
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 9:30 am and 2 pm
- Highlights: Explore Charleston’s secret alleyways and historic buildings, learn the history that shaped the city
- Inclusions: Small-group walking tour, professional local guide
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 2,100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This small-group walking tour felt like being let in on a local secret, with quiet alleyways, tucked-away gardens, and stories that bring old Charleston to life! As soon as we stepped into the first alleyway and the sounds of the busy street faded behind us, we knew we were seeing a side of the city most visitors miss.
Over the course of two hours, our guide led us through tucked-away passages and quiet courtyards, each with its own story. These aren’t just pretty shortcuts; many have been around for centuries, once used by merchants, tradespeople, and revolutionaries.
A highlight was visiting the Heyward-Washington House. This was once home to Thomas Heyward, one of the original signers of the United States Declaration of Independence! To say our guide had heaps of fascinating history to share about this place is an understatement.
The small group size also made it easy to ask questions and linger in quieter spots. It’s a peaceful, slower-paced tour that rewards those who take the time to enjoy the details.
If you want to see a side of Charleston that hides in plain sight, this is a perfect place to start. We left with a deeper appreciation for how much history lives between the well-trodden streets.
Check out over 1,900 5-star reviews and book this popular tour here!
2. Explore Charleston’s historic streets on a horse & carriage ride
- Duration: 1 hour
- Time: Multiple times available from 9 am–5 pm
- Highlights: Enjoy a guided tour aboard a horse-drawn carriage, see grand antebellum homes and learn their history, snap one-of-a-kind photos
- Inclusions: Professional guide, one-hour horse-drawn carriage tour, well-behaved horse
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 8,800+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation:
- Price: Check price here!
We’ll admit it, we were a little skeptical about this horse-drawn carriage tour at first. Was this going to be too touristy? But as soon as we met our guide John and his gorgeous horse Roddy, we knew we were in for something special.
Roddy was calm and clearly a local celebrity, while John had the kind of storytelling style that made every stop along the way come to life. By the time we were rolling past pastel mansions and moss-draped oaks, we were completely won over.
This is Charleston at its most iconic, and honestly, it was one of the most relaxing ways to take in the city’s history. The ride lasts about an hour, and John shared stories about everything from antebellum architecture to Revolutionary War heroes.
Each carriage gets assigned a route by the city when it departs, so you might roll through the residential South of Broad neighborhood or get a closer look at historic churches and public buildings. Either way, you’re in for postcard-worthy views around every corner.
We passed by grand homes with intricate ironwork and secret gardens tucked behind high gates. One of our favorite stops was hearing the backstory of a home once owned by a cotton merchant, it’s those kinds of personal touches that brought the history to life.
The slow pace makes it perfect for soaking in the views and snapping photos—ideal for first-timers, families, or anyone skipping the walking. No surprise this ended up being our favorite tour!
You can book this unforgettable tour with FREE 24-hour cancellation here!
3. Learn Civil War history at Fort Sumter
- Duration: 2 hours 15 mins
- Time: Multiple times available from 9:30 am–2 pm
- Highlights: Visit the site where the Civil War began, enjoy a scenic cruise, explore the Civil War museum at Fort Sumter
- Inclusions: Admission to Fort Sumter, round-trip ferry transport from Liberty Square or Patriots Point, 1-hour self-guided tour
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 2,600+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This Fort Sumter tour felt like two Charleston must-dos wrapped into one: a peaceful harbor cruise and a deep dive into Civil War history. From the moment we stepped onto the ferry, with views of Rainbow Row and the Battery slipping by, we knew this experience was going to stick with us!
The ride across Charleston Harbor is about 30 minutes each way, and it’s beautiful, pelicans skimming the water, sailboats drifting past, and the skyline slowly unfolding behind you. But the real impact comes once you dock at Fort Sumter, the site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired in 1861.
Standing there on the windswept grounds, looking out at the same harbor cannons once guarded, it’s hard not to feel the weight of that history.
We had plenty of time to walk around the fort’s ruins and explore the onsite museum, which gives powerful context around the events that unfolded here. From preserved artillery to original flags, the exhibits are thoughtful and moving. Rangers are also on hand to answer questions, ours shared a few not-so-well-known stories that really brought the past to life.
The full tour lasts around two hours, and the ferry has indoor and outdoor seating for all weather. It’s a great fit for history buffs, families, or anyone who wants a meaningful break from life downtown.
Book this Civil War tour here and step back into history!
4. See Charleston from the water and relax on a private sailboat
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: 9 am–3 pm (+6 pm sunset option)
- Highlights: Sail through Charleston Harbor on a private charter, enjoy stunning views of the city skyline and historic landmarks, relax with your group on a comfortable and luxurious cruise
- Inclusions: Your charter, bottled water, soda/pop, gourmet catering (optional), photographer (optional)
- Rating: 5.0 stars (check 350+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This private sailing charter was pure Lowcountry bliss. The moment we stepped aboard, everything slowed down, the hum of the city faded, and all we could hear was the flap of the sails and the gentle splash of water against the hull (before the tunes came on!). It’s a peaceful, scenic, and easily one of the most relaxing ways to take in Charleston.
The cruise is also fully private, so it’s just you, your group, and the captain, no crowded decks or set itineraries. We sailed past historic sites like Fort Sumter and the Battery, with the Charleston skyline glowing in the afternoon sun. It’s the kind of experience that feels totally unhurried.
Charters are for up to six people, so it’s best to bring along friends and family if you can, which helps make the already reasonable price even more affordable!
Our captain was friendly, professional, and happy to customize the route based on what we wanted to see. We decided to go past Castle Pinckney and circle back toward the marina as the sun started to dip, and wow, we might have just about filled up our phones with photos of the sunset!
This tour is ideal if you’re celebrating something special or just want a quiet escape with a few friends. It’s a totally different perspective on Charleston, and one we’d happily do again.
Book this private cruise here with FREE 24-hour cancellation!
5. Discover Charleston’s haunted history on a ghost walking tour
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: 4:30 pm and 7:30 pm
- Highlights: Walking tour through Charleston’s haunted side, hear ghost stories tied to real history, stop at historic pubs for drinks
- Inclusions: Your professional (and costumed!) tour guide, souvenir
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 1,400+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We weren’t sure what we’d enjoy more, the ghost stories or the pub stops, but this haunted ghost walk delivered on both, with a perfect mix of eerie tales, local history, and a fun, laid-back vibe. If you’re into spooky history with a side of social fun, this tour is a must!
Our guide, Vannah, led us through some of the oldest (and most haunted) corners of the city, where the past feels especially close. We stopped outside shadowy alleyways, crumbling graveyards, and once-infamous inns while hearing stories of pirates, prisoners, and souls that never quite left.
The stories were grounded in real events and historical figures, which made it all the more chilling. Between the ghostly tales, we popped into a few historic pubs where you can grab a drink, mingle with the group, and take a breather before heading to the next haunted spot.
The pace was just right—enough walking to explore without overdoing it—and the mix of old-world bars and lantern-lit streets made it feel straight out of a storybook. It’s 21+ and perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers after a unique evening out.
If you’re up for a night of haunted history and historic watering holes, this tour is a spirited way to experience Charleston.
Get spooky with this immersive ghost walk and book your spot here!
6. Take an eco boat cruise to Morris Island Lighthouse
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: 8 am–6 pm
- Highlights: Small-group eco cruise through Charleston’s scenic waterways, spot wildlife, see Morris Island Lighthouse
- Inclusions: Scenic cruise with live narration, one-hour beach stop, fuel charges
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 1,800+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re craving a peaceful escape from the busy streets of downtown Charleston, this small-group cruise is the perfect getaway. Drifting through saltwater creeks toward the remote Morris Island Lighthouse gave us a whole new perspective on the Lowcountry, quiet, wild, and undeniably beautiful!
We joined a small group aboard a flat-bottomed boat, which made for a smooth ride through the creeks and waterways. Along the way, Captain Chris pointed out all kinds of wildlife, including spotted dolphins playing in the wake and egrets tucked away in the marsh grass.
The atmosphere was calm and unhurried, with plenty of chances to take photos and just soak in the view.
The real highlight for us was arriving near Morris Island. The lighthouse there is striking, remote, weathered, and standing all alone just offshore. You can’t walk up to it, but seeing it from the water is unforgettable, especially with the sun hitting the horizon behind it.
This tour lasts about two and a half hours and is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, or anyone looking to get off the beaten path. If you want to see a wilder side of Charleston and enjoy its coastal beauty, this trip is a must!
This popular tour books up fast—grab your spot here!
Related Read: To make sure you have the best time possible in Charleston, we’ve created this detailed 3-day itinerary that visits all the best places and hidden gems!
7. Taste your way around Charleston
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: Multiple options available from 9:30 am–4 pm
- Highlights: Taste your way through Charleston’s charming Harleston Village, sample Lowcountry favorites at locally loved spots, learn about the neighborhood’s rich history
- Inclusions: All tastings, your professional and local guide
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 1,300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This 3-hour food tour felt like spending an afternoon with a friend who knows all the best local spots, and isn’t shy about ordering seconds. Set in Harleston Village, it was a perfect mix of Charleston’s Lowcountry flavors, neighborhood charm, and behind-the-scenes stories we would have had a hard time finding on our own!
We tasted a little bit of everything, from buttery biscuits to coastal shrimp dishes to a surprisingly addictive local specialty we’d never even heard of (we won’t spoil the surprise!).
Each stop was chosen for a reason, and our guide, Sydney, made it easy to appreciate not just the food but the people behind it. Along the way, we learned how Charleston’s culinary traditions have evolved and how this neighborhood fits into the broader story of the city.
The pace was relaxed, with plenty of time to sit, savor, and ask questions. We especially loved that the tour is offered in both small-group and private options, so whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a group of friends, it’s easy to find the right vibe.
This is a great pick for food lovers who also want to explore Charleston beyond the main historic core. You’ll leave full, and probably already planning where to go back for dinner!
Treat yourself—secure this tongue-tingling food tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
8. See Charleston from the water on a guided kayak adventure
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: Multiple times available from 9 am–6:15 pm
- Highlights: Kayak through Charleston’s serene salt marshes, spot wildlife, learn about the unique Lowcountry ecosystem from a local naturalist
- Inclusions: All kayaking and safety equipment, dry bag for your personal belongings, your expert guide, small-group tour
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 880+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Charleston’s natural beauty really shines once you get out on the water, and this kayaking tour was the perfect way to see it up close. From tidal creeks to wildlife encounters, it felt like paddling through a living postcard of the Lowcountry.
Led by a local naturalist, the tour lasts about two hours and sticks to calm, beginner-friendly waterways—no experience needed! Our guide, Aiden, was full of knowledge and super easy to talk to, pointing out oyster beds, explaining how the tides shape the landscape, and helping us spot wildlife along the way. We saw herons, egrets, and even a pair of dolphins cruising along.
The small-group setup also really added to the experience—we had just eight people (including us) on our tour! It felt relaxed and personal, with plenty of space to take it slow, ask questions, and just enjoy being out on the water. The marsh views were beautiful, especially as the light started to shift near sunset.
This tour is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, or anyone looking to get active without breaking a sweat. It’s a great alternative to traditional sightseeing, and a refreshing reminder of how alive Charleston’s coastal ecosystem really is.
If you’re up for a gentle adventure with incredible views, this kayak tour is a must-do!
This popular tour books up far in advance—reserve your spots here!
9. Visit the Middleton Place Plantation
- Duration: 5 hours
- Time: 9:45 am and 12 pm (not available Sunday)
- Highlights: Visit the historic Middleton Place plantation and gardens, enjoy a guided house tour and self-guided grounds exploration
- Inclusions: All-access pass for Middleton Place, round-trip transport, three-course Lowcountry lunch, 45-minute house museum tour, professional guide/driver, small-group tour
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 320+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: No
- Price: Check price here!
This half-day tour is a beautiful blend of Charleston history, Southern gardens, and Lowcountry flavors, all without worrying about transportation. It all centers around Middleton Place, a preserved 18th-century plantation known for its sweeping landscaped gardens, historic home, and the powerful stories it tells about Charleston’s past.
We started with a 30-minute self-guided tour of the gardens and grounds before enjoying a guided tour of the house museum, which offered a closer look at the Middleton family’s role in American history, including both its grandeur and its ties to slavery. The storytelling was thoughtful and balanced, helping us understand the lives of everyone who lived and labored on the property.
After the house tour, we had free time to explore the grounds, which was just about the right amount of time to feel like we truly appreciated the place. The gardens are the oldest landscaped gardens in America, with terraced lawns, reflecting pools, and giant oaks dripping with Spanish moss.
There’s also a stable yard with heritage breed animals and live demonstrations that added even more to the experience! Lunch at the onsite restaurant was a highlight in itself. We enjoyed classic Lowcountry dishes in a peaceful setting overlooking the grounds.
This tour includes round-trip transport from downtown Charleston, which makes it easy to enjoy a full day without needing a car. If you want to dive deeper into Charleston’s history while enjoying beautiful surroundings and great food, this is the perfect choice!
Book this scenic tour of a classic 18th-century plantation here!
10. Learn about prohibition in a speakeasy cocktail-making class
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 1 pm and 5 pm
- Highlights: Step inside a hidden speakeasy in downtown Charleston, learn to craft classic Prohibition-era cocktails, sip your creations while hearing the stories behind them
- Inclusions: Professional guide, three beverages, snacks
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This cocktail class felt like stepping straight into the 1920s, tucked behind an unmarked door in downtown Charleston, with jazz in the background and vintage glassware waiting on the bar. It’s part history lesson, part hands-on mixology workshop, and 100% fun!
Led by our local bartender, Logan, who was seriously knowledgeable and had great energy, the experience dove into Charleston’s Prohibition past while teaching us how to make (and enjoy) three expertly crafted cocktails.
We learned about the ingredients, techniques, and stories behind each drink, from bootleggers and secret codes to the city’s hidden drinking culture during the dry years. There were plenty of laughs, a few surprises, and even some vintage bartending tools to try out ourselves.
What made it even better was the setting. The speakeasy space is dimly lit and full of character, with a curated vibe that makes you feel like you’re in on something special. It’s intimate, with limited spots, so you get a lot of personal attention and time to ask questions.
This one’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone who loves cocktails with a twist of history. Whether you’re celebrating something or just want a memorable evening out, it’s a unique way to taste a different side of Charleston.
Book your spot here and sip your way through the city’s spirited past!
Where to Stay in Charleston, South Carolina
If you’re planning a trip to Charleston, finding the right place to stay can make all the difference. From its cobblestone streets and pastel mansions to its historic waterfront and vibrant food scene, Charleston is packed with charm, and your accommodations should match the experience.
Whether you’re looking to splurge on luxury, enjoy the comforts of a mid-range stay, or stick to a budget without sacrificing quality, we’ve rounded up the best hotel options around the city.
Luxury – $$$
Hotel Bennett Charleston is the epitome of Southern luxury, nestled in the heart of the historic district with a near-perfect location score of 9.8. From its rooftop pool and city-view suites to an indulgent spa and elegant dining options, every detail is designed for a high-end stay. The grand interiors, impeccable service, and proximity to Charleston’s top sites make it a favorite among couples and luxury travelers.
Room rates typically range from $500–$1,000+ USD per night. Check availability and book your luxury stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Hyatt House Charleston/Mount Pleasant is a standout mid-range option offering spacious studio-style rooms with full kitchens, ideal for longer stays or family getaways. Guests enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast, a relaxing outdoor pool, and a fitness center. The hotel’s quiet yet convenient Mount Pleasant location puts you just minutes from downtown Charleston and nearby attractions like Patriots Point and Sullivan’s Island.
Room rates typically range from $160–$240 USD per night. Check options for your travel dates on Booking.com.
Budget – $
Hyatt Place North Charleston is a smart, budget-friendly stay offering spacious rooms with cozy seating areas, mini-fridges, and coffee makers. Guests enjoy a free hot breakfast, an indoor pool, a 24-hour fitness center, and easy access to dining and attractions nearby. With comfortable beds and friendly staff, it’s a solid pick for both short getaways and longer stays in the Charleston area.
Rooms can start at just $96 USD per night. Head to Booking.com to check availability and secure your stay!
For more hotel options, check out all of Charleston’s hotels listed here!
Renting a Car in the USA
The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the USA
- Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
- Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
- Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
We didn’t expect Charleston to linger in our memories quite like it has, but between the mossy oaks, rich history, and warm hospitality, it’s a city that gets under your skin in the best way. From scenic tours and historic sites to local flavors and coastal adventures, we hope this guide has helped you discover some unforgettable ways to experience Charleston.
If you’re planning on more U.S. travels, check out our full collection of USA travel blogs here, or browse a few favorites below!
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