City centre Charleston enchants visitors with colourful Georgian townhouses and horse-drawn carriages on cobblestone streets. The Charleston City Market buzzes with local artisans selling sweetgrass baskets. Historic churches with soaring spires create a stunning skyline against Charleston Harbor's backdrop. The Battery's antebellum mansions offer glimpses into the city's complex past. Art lovers can explore Halsey Institute and numerous galleries featuring Lowcountry artists. Sophisticated rooftop bars and historic taverns provide perfect evening retreats after days of wandering this walkable historic district.
Charleston's French Quarter transports visitors to the 18th century with its cobblestone streets and distinctive architecture. Historic Charleston single houses display their unique side piazzas alongside the stately St. Philip's Church with its towering steeple. Rainbow Row's pastel mansions create a picturesque backdrop for exploring this living museum. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the numerous galleries including Anglin Smith Fine Art and Revealed Art Gallery. Nearby Port of Charleston Cruise Terminal and Dock Street Theatre offer glimpses into the city's rich past. The area balances tourism with authentic residential charm, making it perfect for travellers seeking Southern cultural immersion.
South of Broad showcases Charleston's rich history through grand antebellum mansions and cobblestone streets dating back to the 18th century. This prestigious waterfront area borders Charleston Harbour and the Ashley River, offering spectacular views along the Battery promenade. Rainbow Row's pastel Georgian houses and St. Michael's Church spire create a picturesque historic district where luxury meets Southern charm. White Point Garden displays historic cannons beneath Spanish moss-draped oak trees. The neighborhood's intimate scale and authentic preservation maintain its 18th-century atmosphere, with quiet lamp-lit streets perfect for evening strolls. Limited nightlife and tranquil surroundings reflect its primarily residential character.
West Ashley combines residential charm with historic appeal just minutes from city centre Charleston. Spacious homes line quiet streets where families and budget-conscious travellers find peaceful retreats. The Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site offers a fascinating glimpse into colonial history with its archaeological ruins and animal forest. Shopping centers and affordable dining options make daily conveniences easy to find. Nature enthusiasts can explore the West Ashley Greenway's scenic trails or visit Magnolia Plantation's romantic gardens. With lower accommodation prices than city centre, this area delivers authentic Charleston experiences without the tourist crowds.
Step back in time on the cobblestone streets of Charleston Historic District. Pastel Georgian townhouses of Rainbow Row stand alongside grand antebellum mansions with wrought-iron balconies. Horse-drawn carriages clip-clop through squares lined with centuries-old live oaks. Historic churches pierce the skyline. This walkable area showcases distinctive Lowcountry culture through its architecture and cuisine. The iconic City Market offers sweetgrass baskets and local crafts. Waterfront Park provides harbour views and the famous pineapple fountain. Sophisticated cocktail bars and upscale restaurants serve classic she-crab soup and shrimp and grits.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Charleston
Photo by Shelby Lehor
Open Photo by Shelby Lehor
Charleston City Market
8.8/10 (11,111 reviews)
Dating back to the 1700s, the Charleston City Market showcases local culture through artisan crafts and famous sweetgrass baskets. Browse vendors in historic open-air sheds while savouring Lowcountry cuisine aromas.
Founded in 1770, the College of Charleston charms visitors with its oak-lined Cistern Yard and historic architecture. Explore the campus's cobblestone paths and the Mace Brown Museum of Natural History.
Founded in 1824, MUSC is South Carolina's only comprehensive academic health system. Visit the Waring Historical Library to explore the fascinating evolution of medical education and practice.
Stroll along Charleston's waterfront oasis with its iconic Pineapple Fountain celebrating Southern hospitality. Catch sunset from the pier swings for harbour views of sailboats gliding beneath the Ravenel Bridge.
Explore diverse aquatic ecosystems from mountain streams to ocean depths at this Charleston marine sanctuary. The Sea Turtle Recovery Centre offers a glimpse into rehabilitation efforts for injured turtles.
Enjoy a performance at Charleston Music Hall, a popular theatre in Charleston. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or visit the stunning cathedral in the area.
America's oldest public romantic garden showcases azaleas, camellias, and history dating to 1676. Explore the historic house, take the "From Slavery to Freedom" tour, or spot wildlife in the Audubon Swamp.
This modern venue hosts the prestigious Credit One Charleston Open tennis tournament and diverse concerts year-round. Enjoy clear sightlines and vibrant atmosphere as the stadium comes alive during evening events.
"The Emeline property, staff and rooms are top-notch. We enjoyed the property's coffee shop and restaurant as well. I would definitely recommend staying at the Emeline. It's proximity to everything in the historic district is a plus.
The minus would be this: My traveling companion and I arrived at the Emeline just before noon. We had been traveling since very early morning - me by car and she by plane. We were delighted to hear that our room was ready - a pleasant surprise. We'd have a...
"Had to pay a parking fee that was not mentioned on our reservation. We did not have a coffee pot in our room. There were not any glasses or drinking cups in our room. We did not have any television service"
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Charleston, South Carolina, is perfect for outdoor family getaways and beach holidays. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including educational experiences, arena entertainment, and golf. Notable experiences include day trips, walking tours, food tours, and additional sightseeing in this charming city, which is rich in history and culture, making it a delightful destination for tourists.
Experience vibrant live music at Music Farm, where the energetic atmosphere will uplift your spirits. For sports enthusiasts, Blackbaud Stadium offers thrilling games in a lively setting. Enjoy the charm of Dock Street Theater, perfect for romantic evenings and cultural performances that cater to the whole family.
Adventure
Explore the scenic West Ashley Greenway for a refreshing hike amidst nature. Experience thrills at Splash Zone Waterpark with family-friendly attractions and exhilarating rides. For water sports enthusiasts, Tidal Trails offers exciting outdoor activities that will make your adventure in Charleston unforgettable.
Nightlife
Charleston's nightlife is vibrant and diverse. Visit The Cocktail Club for innovative drinks and a rooftop view. For live music, head to The Pour House, showcasing local bands. Enjoy late-night dining at Husk, where Southern cuisine meets a lively atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Find the best attractions in Charleston
Charleston, South Carolina, is ideal for outdoor and family beach vacations, offering a rich blend of culture and history. Visitors can explore urban parks, historic houses, and the esteemed College of Charleston. Key attractions include the picturesque Charleston Harbour and the bustling Charleston City Market, ensuring a delightful experience for all types of travellers seeking relaxation and adventure.
Waterfront Park: Experience the serene beauty of this urban park, located in the heart of Charleston. With its lush gardens, charming fountains, and stunning views of the Cooper River, it’s the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic, all while soaking in the vibrant city atmosphere.
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens: Step back in time at this historic house, renowned for its picturesque gardens and rich cultural heritage. Wander through the beautifully landscaped grounds, rich with Southern charm, and learn about the plantation's fascinating history.
Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge: Marvel at this modern architectural feat, connecting downtown Charleston to Mount Pleasant. Offering breathtaking views of the city skyline and the harbour, it’s an ideal spot for a scenic walk or bike ride.
Best time to go to Charleston
The best time to visit Charleston can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Charleston falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Charleston falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Charleston
Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
Consider traveling to Charleston during the low season (December to February) for more affordable options.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Charleston holiday package cost?
You can grab a holiday package to this popular destination on Expedia. But how much your holiday to Charleston costs will depend on factors like the length of stay, season and hotel choice.
What are the cheapest months to go to Charleston?
You can generally find lower rates and greater availability in December, January and February. Check out our cheap Charleston holiday packages and you could score some excellent off-season deals.
How many days is enough for Charleston?
Charleston holidays can be as short or long as you like, but to really sink your teeth into this place, we reckon 3 days is a good ballpark. In this timeframe, you can fit in major attractions like International African American Museum and Gibbes Museum of Art along with underrated gems. Don't miss out on cool neighbourhoods such as Downtown Charleston and Charleston Historic District either. If you plan wisely, you can even schedule a day trip or two from Charleston too.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Charleston?
Charleston has everything you need for an amazing getaway — culture, festivals and golfing are just the start. Whether you'd like to check out sights like Charleston City Market and Waterfront Park, or take the path less traveled, there's plenty to explore on your Charleston holiday.
How to find the best Charleston package deals?
Use Expedia's filter tool to help you find some of the best Charleston package deals. When you begin your search, just set your maximum budget and then sort the results by "Price: low to high." If you're looking to save, plan your escape for midweek, or browse for Charleston package deals in the low season. Play around with your travel dates and you may land even bigger discounts. As a rule of thumb, it's typically best to book your holiday package as early as possible.
Is it cheaper to book a Charleston holiday as a package?
Expedia holiday packages are designed to give you more bang for your buck. Bundle your car rental, hotel and flight into one great-value price and enjoy significant savings. You'll generally snag a better deal than booking each component separately. And you'll still have the flexibility to create a customised Charleston holiday by choosing your favourite type of stay, airline and car class.
When to book a holiday package to Charleston?
If you have your Charleston travel dates finalized, book as soon as you can to snap up some unbeatable deals. With Expedia, you can typically reserve some flights up to one year in advance. Prefer spur-of-the-moment adventures? Our last-minute deals are perfect for travelling on a whim.
How to plan a trip to Charleston?
Choose the perfect time to travel: Your schedule, preferred season and the type of weather you enjoy can all impact your decision on when to go to Charleston.
Set a budget: Consider expenses such as food, flights and transportation when working out how much to save for your trip to Charleston. Then, select a property that works with your budget, whether that's a low-cost option or a more luxurious getaway.
Decide how long to go away for: Now that you're more familiar with Charleston, you can work out the ideal length of your break. Create a draft itinerary and give yourself enough time to get through everything on your must-do list.
Bundle your flights and hotel: Awesome destination, check. Length of stay, check. All that's left now is to find a Charleston holiday package that brings all your bookings together.