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Planning a trip to Charleston, South Carolina? You’re in for a treat!
This charming Southern city is the perfect destination for a long weekend. We’ve visited Charleston multiple times, and so now we’ve pulled together a perfectly paced three-day itinerary that balances iconic sights with relaxing downtime, hidden history, and amazing eats (yes, shrimp and grits are involved).
Whether it’s your first time or you’re just here for a refresh, this guide will help you make the most of your trip without feeling rushed. So grab your sunhat, bring your appetite, and let’s dive into three unforgettable days in Charleston!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal favorite activity in Charleston is this walking food tour. From flaky biscuits to coastal shrimp, every stop was delicious. The pace was relaxed, the stories were rich, and it truly felt like eating our way through town with a local friend.
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Day 1
- Day 2
- Day 3
- Where to Stay in Charleston
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in the USA
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Day 1
Breakfast – Harken Cafe
Start your day at the cozy Harken Cafe, which is right in the heart of the French Quarter. In fact, it’s just a 7-minute walk to the meeting point for this morning’s tour.
This place really sets the tone for today’s adventures with its antique vibes and incredible baked goods, especially the cinnamon rolls and breakfast sandwiches! The coffee is both delicious and locally roasted, so what’s not to love? This place is a favorite with locals and tourists alike, so we suggest arriving at around 8 am to beat the morning crowd. You won’t regret it!
Morning – Discover Charleston’s secrets on a guided walking tour
This small group walking tour is the perfect way to get to know Charleston. It feels like being let in on a local secret, with quiet alleyways, tucked-away gardens, and stories that bring old Charleston to life!
You’ll want to book the 9:30 am option for this itinerary. The tour lasts for 2 hours, so you should finish around 11:30 am, just in time to head over to today’s lunch spot.
On this tour, you’ll see into the heart and soul of Charleston and experience a side of the city that most visitors miss. We loved exploring the tucked-away passages and quiet courtyards because each one had its own story. And these aren’t just pretty shortcuts, either; many have been around for centuries and were once used by merchants, tradespeople, and revolutionaries.
A real highlight of this tour is 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 makes 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 like learning history beyond the headlines, you’ll LOVE this tour.
Read 2,000+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Lunch – Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar
After the morning tour wraps up, head towards the waterfront for a leisurely lunch at Fleet Landing. It’s a 7-minute walk from where this morning’s tour ends, and it’s popular, so we suggest making a reservation here, especially during the high season. The tour wraps up at around 11:30 am, so book this place for around 12 pm to give yourself a little leeway.
The restaurant is a casual but elegant spot that sits right over the water. We love coming here to enjoy fresh seafood with unbeatable views of Charleston Harbor. We highly recommend the shrimp and grits or the fried green tomato BLT!
Early afternoon – Soak up the sights from a carriage
You’re in for a real treat with this horse-drawn carriage tour of Charleston’s beautiful historic district. We were actually worried that it was going to be too touristy, but it turned out to be our favorite ever experience here!
Book this tour for 2 or 2:30 pm to give yourself plenty of time for lunch and to walk to the meeting point, which is 8 minutes from the restaurant. And no worries if you’re full of food because all you have to do for this carriage ride is sit back and enjoy it!
We received a warm welcome from our guide John and his gorgeous horse Roddy, who was very calm and clearly a local celebrity! Meanwhile, John had the kind of storytelling style that made every stop along the way come to life. Despite our initial doubts when booking the tour, we were won over within minutes as we began rolling past pastel mansions and moss-draped oaks.
This tour shows you Charleston at its most iconic, and it was a very relaxing way to take in the city’s history. 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.
Book this historic tour here with FREE cancellation!
Afternoon – Stroll and shop your way down King Street
King Street is Charleston’s go-to spot for a leisurely afternoon of browsing, people-watching, and soaking up the city’s historic charm. The street is lined with gorgeous old buildings, shady trees, and a mix of modern boutiques and long-standing local gems. Here are a few of our favorite ways to spend the afternoon:
Shop for Antiques & Boutiques
If you love hunting for unique finds, don’t miss George C. Birlant & Co., which is one of the oldest antique shops in the Southeast! There’s always something interesting to see here, so even if you’re just window shopping, it’s a lot of fun to visit. Or for a more modern flair, My Sister’s Cottage has cute boutique clothing, gifts, and accessories you’ll definitely want to take home!
Get a Literary Fix
The Charleston Library Society offers a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, and it just so happens to be one of the oldest libraries in the US! Even if you’re not a bookworm, the architecture alone is worth the visit.
Take a Break in Marion Square
To be honest, one of our favorite ways to enjoy King Street is to just hang out and people-watch in Marion Square! So when you need a break from shopping and sightseeing, go find a shady bench beneath the trees and take a pause at this peaceful, locally beloved spot.
Dinner – Husk
After a full day of exploring Charleston, it’s time to treat yourself to one of the city’s most celebrated restaurants. Husk is just a short walk from King Street and Waterfront Park, but feel free to take your time getting there because the golden evening light on the historic homes makes for a gorgeous stroll.
Husk puts a fresh, modern spin on traditional Southern cuisine, with a menu that changes daily based on what’s local and in season. It’s set in a beautiful restored Victorian home, and we love coming here to try their latest inventive dishes and enjoy the bold flavors. As you can imagine, this place is super popular, so reservations are a must, especially on weekends!
Evening – Unwind with harbor views
To end your first day in Charleston, head toward the waterfront and take a relaxing stroll through Waterfront Park. We think this is the perfect place because the breeze coming off the harbor, the sound of the fountains, and the glow of the traditional gas lamps create a very serene and relaxing atmosphere. Head over to the iconic Pineapple Fountain, grab a bench, and spend a quiet moment soaking in the charm of Charleston before you call it a night.
Day 2
Morning – Visit Fort Sumter and see where the Civil War began
This Fort Sumter tour is two Charleston must-dos wrapped into one because it combines a peaceful harbor cruise and a deep dive into Civil War history.
Book this tour for 9:30 am. It lasts for 2 hours and 15 minutes, so you should finish by midday at the latest. If you’re staying downtown (which we recommend), choose the Fort Sumter Visitor Center as your meeting and drop-off point.
The tour starts with a ride across Charleston Harbor, and the ferry has indoor and outdoor seating for all weathers. The ride takes about 30 minutes each way, and it’s beautiful, with pelicans skimming the water, sailboats drifting past, and the skyline slowly unfolding. But the real impact comes once you dock at Fort Sumter, which is where the first shots of the Civil War were fired in 1861! As we stood there, it was 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. The exhibits are thoughtful and moving, showcasing everything from preserved artillery to original flags. Rangers are also on hand to answer questions, and ours even shared a few not-so-well-known stories that really brought the past to life.
This tour is such a fun and engaging way to get to know Charleston’s history better. We had a great time, and we definitely think it deserves all of the glowing reviews that it has!
Dive into Charleston’s history by booking this 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.
Lunch – Slightly North of Broad Restaurant
While you’re in South Carolina, you’ve got to try a typical Lowcountry lunch! This typically features local seafood, so think shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and Lowcountry boil—aka Frogmore stew. And we think that Slightly North of Broad Restaurant at the waterfront is the perfect place to enjoy a classic southern meal.
We love the dining room here because it has an elegant, old-world warmth with marble columns, exposed brick interiors, and chandeliers. You really feel like you’ve entered southern high society! Definitely make a reservation here, though, as this place is a favorite with locals and visitors alike. This place is a 7-minute drive or Uber ride from the Fort Sumter Visitor Center, so book your table for around 12:15 pm.
Afternoon – Let the morning settle with an easy-paced afternoon
After lunch, take some time to rest and recharge this afternoon. Whether you want to wander around at your own pace, grab an iced coffee, or relax at the waterfront, the choice is yours! We’ve got suggestions for all three below, or if you’re staying nearby, you could even head back to your hotel to chill out for a while before this evening’s activities begin. Trust me, a bit of downtime makes all the difference before a social night out, so just do what feels good for you.
Visit the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon
If you’re in the mood for even more history, the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon is a compact but fascinating stop just a short walk from the harbor. We loved being shown around by costumed guides who brought the building’s stories to life. And I must say, visiting the underground prison cells that once held pirates and Revolutionary War prisoners sent chills down my spine! Entry costs $16 USD per person, and although this is a quick visit, it certainly leaves an impression.
Gibbes Museum of Art
If you want to relax and take in a bit of culture, head to the Gibbes Museum of Art, which is just a few short blocks from the harbor. It’s an intimate museum that houses centuries’ worth of Southern art, from historic portraits and maps to contemporary works by local artists. There’s also a peaceful courtyard and a small cafés on site, which is the perfect place to cool off and reflect after admiring the beautiful artwork. Admission costs $12 USD per adult, and the museum is open until 5 pm daily.
Carmella’s Cafe and Dessert Bar
If you need a pick-me-up, do yourself a favor and head to Carmella’s Cafe and Dessert Bar near East Bay Street. This cheerful café does the best frozen drinks in town, as well as indulgent cakes, Italian-style light bites, and desserts. You could even grab a refreshing drink if you like—after all, you’re on vacation! We sometimes grab a gelato to go and then head for a walk along Waterfront Park or to the Pineapple Fountain.
Dinner – Magnolias
You know how some food just feels like a warm hug? Well, that’s what you can expect at dinner tonight at Magnolias. This place serves what I like to call “refined soul food”, as it blends classic Southern comfort with fine dining finesse. The dining room is smart, polished, and softly lit, and some of our favorite dishes include the buttermilk-fried chicken (duh!), shellfish over grits, and the pimento cheese appetizers.
Now, this place is a local favorite, and it has a great reputation, so lots of tourists want to dine here, too. For that reason, we suggest making a reservation online here for around 5:30 pm so that you can enjoy a relaxed meal before heading to the tour meeting point, which is just a 5-minute walk away.
Evening – Toast the spirits of Charleston with a haunted twist
Charleston is one of the oldest cities in the US, so you’d better believe that there are some spine-tingling ghost stories around here. Book this ghost tour for 7 pm and spend your evening enjoying the eerie tales and local history that’s usually left out of the guidebooks…
When we did this tour, 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.
What we really loved about this tour was that we also stopped into a few historical pubs between the ghostly tales. This was a great chance to grab a drink, mingle with our tour group, and imbibe some liquid courage before heading to the next haunted spot. Plus, some of these pubs have fascinating stories of their own!
The tour lasts for roughly 2.5 hours, so it wraps up at around 9:30 pm. It actually ends in another old-timey bar, so you can stay there for another drink before heading back to your hotel if you like. Either way, you’re in for a great time with this tour—we think it totally deserves the 1,400+ glowing reviews it has!
Book your spooky ghost walk here, with free cancellation!
Related Read: Want even more ideas? Check out our full guide to the 10 best things to do in Charleston here for unforgettable tours, top historic sights, and food stops worth the hype.
Day 3
Morning – Take a slow stroll through Charleston’s Historic City Market
We love slow mornings at Charleston’s Historic City Market! It’s one of Charleston’s oldest public spaces, and you’ll find local vendors from all walks of life here.
It’s an open-air market, but there’s plenty of shade, so it doesn’t get too hot during those sweltering Charleston summers. Browsing this market is just so much fun because there are so many goodies on offer, from hand-woven sweetgrass baskets to artisan spices and small-batch preserves.
Whether you want to find some southern souvenirs to take home or just feel like spending a while browsing, the Historic City Market is the perfect place to enjoy a slice of local life. It opens at 9:30 am so rock up, grab a coffee, and have a wander! Plus, it’s just steps away from where our late morning food tour begins.
Late morning – Taste Charleston’s history, one bite at a time
Charleston has a fantastic food scene, and this 3-hour food tour is the best way to discover the best of it! In fact, we thought that this tour felt just like being shown around by a friend who knows all the best local spots.
Book this tour for 11 am so that you’ll finish around 2 pm. The meeting point is just a minute’s walk from the market, so you’ll basically already be there!
We had a blast on this tour because we got to taste 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!). It was a perfect mix of Charleston’s Lowcountry flavors, neighborhood charm, and behind-the-scenes stories.
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.
Read over a thousand 5-star reviews and book this food tour here!
Afternoon – Paddle through Charleston’s wild (and peaceful!) side
Charleston’s natural beauty really shines once you get out on the water, and this kayaking tour is the perfect way to see it up close! It really feels like paddling through a living postcard of the Lowcountry.
Time slots do vary for this tour, but aim for a mid-afternoon slot. Believe me, you’ll definitely want to allow some time for the food to settle after the tour! Options like 3 pm and 4:45 pm are often available.
Once you get going, the tour lasts for about two hours and sticks to calm, beginner-friendly waterways, so no experience is needed! And not only is the paddling easy, you get to see SO much as you glide along. We saw herons, egrets, and even a pair of dolphins cruising! Meanwhile, our guide, Aiden, was full of knowledge and super easy to talk to, pointing out oyster beds and explaining how the tides shape the landscape.
The small-group setup also really added to the experience because 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 an amazing way to see how alive Charleston’s coastal ecosystem really is. It’s a gentle adventure with incredible views. We’d do it again tomorrow, and so would 800+ other happy reviewers!
This tour is popular and books up far in advance, so book your spot here ASAP!
Dinner – Bohemian Bull
On the way back from the kayaking tour, stop into Bohemian Bull for dinner. It’s on the route back to downtown Charleston, so it’s a convenient place for dinner, but we also love it because it’s super laid back with a huge outdoor beer garden and one of the best burger menus in town. And in Charleston, that’s saying something!
This is the perfect place to stretch out and unwind. On a warm day, we love to relax outside under the oaks, but you can also sit inside the rustic dining room if you prefer. They also have over 30 local brews on tap, so this place is truly a beer-lover’s paradise.
But if you’re not a beer fan, they also serve creative drinks here. I have a sweet tooth, so the Strawberry Frosé is definitely a favorite of mine. And the menu also goes well beyond your typical pub grub, with whiskey-glazed wings, shrimp tacos, and even a surprisingly delicious veggie burger on offer. Personally, I like the beer garden pretzels!
Evening – Toast to your trip at The Rooftop
If you don’t fall into a food coma after dinner at the Bohemian Bull, head to The Rooftop to round off your Charleston adventure with one of their top-notch cocktails. This place is perched on top of The Vendue hotel in the heart of Charleston’s French Quarter, and as well as delicious drinks, it offers twinkling lights, panoramic views, and a sophisticated atmosphere.
We like this place because the drinks are creative without being overly fussy. We recommend trying a Charleston Mule for a refreshing nightcap, or they have plenty of local craft beers here. Meanwhile, the open-air setting means that you’ll be able to gaze out at the city’s iconic steeples, bridge, and harbor as you sip your drink and toast to your last night in Charleston.
Related Read: Planning to add a beachy detour? Don’t miss our list of the 8 best things to do in Myrtle Beach here—it’s just a short drive from Charleston and packed with fun, sun, and seaside charm.
Where to Stay in Charleston
If you’re only going to be in Charleston for a few days, we highly recommend staying in the downtown area. This is easily the most convenient place to stay, as all of the tours we’ve mentioned in this blog meet downtown.
And not only does downtown make it super easy to follow this itinerary, it’s also a beautiful and historic area. With its cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and colorful facades, this place just oozes charm—and it’s where all of the best bars and restaurants are!
So with that in mind, we’ve picked out our three favorite stays in Downtown Charleston for every budget.
Luxury – $$$
Hotel Bennett Charleston is the epitome of Southern luxury, nestled in the heart of the historic district. It offers a rooftop pool and beautiful city-view suites, as well as an indulgent spa. The beds feel like marshmallows, and the staff really go above and beyond for the guests. Basically, every detail is designed for a high-end stay!
The building is very grand, inside and out, so you’ll feel like a true VIP when you stay here. On-site, you’ll also find Camellia’s, Charleston’s famous shell-pink champagne bar. It doesn’t get much fancier than this!
Room rates typically range from $500–$1,000+ USD per night. Check availability and book your luxury stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Homewood Suites by Hilton is a laid-back but elegant hotel in the heart of the city. It’s just a short walk from the Museum and Marion Square, it’s ideal if you want easy access to the city without being right in the middle of the bustle.
This hotel offers an all-suite set up, so every room has its own kitchen, living area, and sofa bed, making this a great choice for groups. There’s also a pool, gym, and bar on-site where you can grab a nightcap after a day of exploring. We think this place offers great value for money, as it boasts a fantastic location and a touch of soft southern glamor.
King studio suites typically cost between $225 and $350 USD per night. Check availability and book your stay here!
Budget – $
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Charleston DWTN offers a clean, modern, and budget-friendly stay. It’s a bit farther out than some downtown hotels, but if you don’t mind a bit of a longer stroll, then it’s a great way to save money while still being close to the action.
The rooms are simple but spacious. They don’t have the elegant southern flair that pricier hotels boast, but if you’re only here for a short time, then you’re going to be out exploring the city for most of the day anyway. And what this place does offer is a comfortable place to rest your head at night, friendly service, and a generous hot breakfast buffet each morning. For the price, you really can’t beat it!
Double rooms typically cost between $150 and $180 USD per night, although rates can rise when demand is very high. Secure the best rates by booking your stay in advance 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!
There’s so much to experience in Charleston, but we hope this three-day itinerary has helped you plan an unforgettable trip! From historic neighborhoods and harbor views to standout meals and soulful stories, this itinerary brings together everything we love about the city in just the right balance.
Got more US adventures planned? You’re in for a treat—be sure to check out our other USA travel blogs right here! Or scroll down for a few hand-picked favorites that go perfectly with a Southern road trip or a longer escape.
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