The Ultimate Charleston Travel Guide

There is no shortage of southern charm in Charleston, South Carolina. This city is best known for its historical beauty, secret gardens, old mansions, & cobblestone streets. As you walk the gas-lamp lit streets, you feel as though you have traveled back in time. Come for the beautiful pastel hues and stay for the delicious southern food. You will not regret booking a ticket to Charleston, here is my “Ultimate Charleston Travel Guide”!

Charleston Weather

The best time to visit Charleston is between March-May or September-November. The weather is mild and the hotels are less expensive during these times (except for Easter weekend). Since Charleston weather can get really hot and humid during the summer, we visited in November and loved it because there were no crowds and we had the city to ourselves in the morning.

Things to Do in Charleston

Rainbow Row

13 historical houses all boasting with beautiful colors. Truly a must-see when you visit. Not only that but it’s the perfect backdrop for a photo op. Furthermore, the colorful houses acquired the name “Rainbow Row” over time but according to tall-tales, the houses were painted in the various colors so drunk sailors coming in from sea knew which houses they were to bunk in. How’s that for a fun fact?

Riley Waterfront park

A waterfront park in the heart of the French Quarter. This area used to be a center of maritime traffic and was transformed into this park in 1990. In addition to this, there is a boardwalk where you can walk along the water with multiple fountains to cool off in during that Charleston summer heat!

Magnolia Plantation Tour

Beauty, charm, and character exuding out of all angles! The Magnolia Plantation tour is the epitome of southern charm. Head here in the spring/summer for beautiful garden displays. Before you go, check the prices on their website so you know what you’re getting into, there are some upcharges.

Charleston Historic Carriage Tour

Roam around the streets of Charleston and learn all about its history in a horse-drawn carriage. Most carriage tours are less than $30, so it’s a fun activity for everyone to enjoy. Finally, head to VIATOR to check our your options!

Charleston Hotels

The Mills House ($$)

This boutique hotel is known for its charming decor and the pink exterior. Its romantic courtyard is a great place to have breakfast when staying. Also, if you’re staying in the summer months make sure to check out the rooftop pool and jacuzzi!

Belmond Charleston Place ($$$)

If you’re looking to splurge a little, The Belmond Charleston Place is the hotel for you. It’s located close to the french quarter downtown, which is a prime location. The hotel is known for its glamour, interior design, and service. The rooftop pool pictured above is reason enough to stay here!

The Vendue ($$)

This chic downtown hotel offers unique guest rooms, innovative dining, and beautifully curated art everywhere you turn. The Vendue is known as Charleston’s Art Hotel and it’s the perfect location. The ambiance is southern charm all the way!

Air BnB($$)

With the rise of the popularity of Charleston, there are plenty of affordable Air BnB options to rent. It’s the best option if you’re coming here for a family vacation, bachelor/bachelorette parties. Furthermore, check out the inventory here!

Best Restaurants in Charleston

Basic Kitchen ($$)

Basic Kitchen is a downtown hotspot that is known for it’s clean/healthy food. They have a myriad of Vegan options. You need to order the Basic Bowl, the best thing on the menu!

Husk ($$$$)

Situated in a renovated historic home, this restaurant has made all the top lists! If you’re a foodie, Husk is the restaurant for you! Top-notch service, extraordinary food, and a quiet courtyard setting.

1 Broad ($$)

This quaint breakfast spot is known for its delicious food and prime corner location. The Ricotta/Jam Toast was pure heavenly, you will not be disappointed with that order!

Leon’s Fine Poultry & Oysters ($$)

Leon’s Fine Poultry & Oysters is a neighborhood gem with great seafood and an extensive European wine selection.

Shopping in Charleston

King Street ($$)

King Street is the main shopping street in Charleston. It’s lined with cute boutiques as well as well known brands. Keep in mind, the shops close pretty early (6-7 pm).

The Commons ($$)

The Commons is tucked away in a courtyard so it’s easy to miss. But you don’t want to miss this cute shop! They sell beautiful home goods that are all made in the USA.

The Shops at Belmond Place ($$$$)

The shops at Belmond Place are luxurious designer shops with high-end service. The Gucci store is reason enough to want to come here. Finally, if you’re on a budget stay far away from this place!

Getting Around Charleston

Walk

Charleston is a fairly small city and you can walk the majority of it in a couple of hours. Take your time and enjoy the sights!

Bikes ($)

Renting a bike is a great way to cover most of the city in a small amount of time! Furthermore, there are plenty of bike rental shops that average $20 a day for bike rentals.

In conclusion, Charleston is a great place for a wedding, a family vacation, a girl’s trip, a bachelor party, and so on! If you’re headed here for one of the aforementioned, please share this with your friends and spread the love! Thank you for reading my “Ultimate Charleston Travel Guide”. For more of my travel guides head here!

XO,

Courtney

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