Plan Your Charleston Trip
Itineraries, timing, where to stay, and practical tips from locals who know the city. Everything you need for an unforgettable Charleston visit.
Charleston rewards visitors who slow down. The city isn't about checking boxes—it's about strolling cobblestone streets past pastel rowhouses, lingering over shrimp and grits at a restaurant that's been perfecting the dish for generations, watching the sunset paint the harbor gold from the deck of a tall ship. Three days gives you time to absorb the atmosphere rather than just photograph it.
This guide covers everything you need to plan a Charleston 3 day itinerary—from the ideal day-by-day schedule to where to stay, what to pack, and when to visit. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo exploration of America's most charming city, you'll find practical advice based on local knowledge.
Charleston has been voted America's #1 small city for over a decade. Here's how to experience why.
How Many Days Do You Need?
1 Day
Highlights only: a walking loop through downtown hitting Rainbow Row, The Battery, and City Market. Lunch at a Lowcountry restaurant, maybe a quick carriage ride. You'll get a taste but miss the depth. Better than skipping Charleston entirely on a road trip.
Best for: Road trip stops, cruise port visitors
2 Days
Comfortable overview: downtown exploration on day one including a food or ghost tour, plus one major excursion on day two (plantation, Fort Sumter, or beach day). Enough time to feel the city's character and enjoy a few good meals.
Best for: Long weekend visitors
3 Days (Ideal)
The sweet spot for most visitors. Time for downtown immersion, a plantation visit, water activity, beach day, and evening tours without rushing. You'll leave satisfied rather than exhausted. Our detailed itinerary below follows this timeframe.
Recommended for first-time visitors
4-5 Days
Deep dive: multiple plantations, extended beach time, day trips to Beaufort or Savannah. Time to discover neighborhood restaurants and revisit favorites. Good pace for those who want to truly unwind.
Best for: Relaxed vacation, multiple plantations
Charleston 3 Day Itinerary
Day-by-day guide covering downtown, plantations, water activities, and beaches. Adjust based on your interests and energy level.
Day 1: Downtown Immersion
Morning: Waterfront Walk
Start at Waterfront Park and the Pineapple Fountain—arrive by 8 AM for the best light and smaller crowds. Walk south along East Bay Street to Rainbow Row. The east-facing pastel facades glow in morning light. Continue to The Battery and White Point Garden, where live oaks shade Civil War cannons. This walk takes about an hour at a relaxed pace and covers Charleston's most photographed spots.
Midday: Food Tour
A late morning food tour through the French Quarter replaces lunch—arrive hungry. Over 2-3 hours, you'll sample Lowcountry staples like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, pralines, and biscuits while learning about the Gullah Geechee culinary traditions that shaped Charleston's cuisine.
Afternoon: Market & King Street
Browse Charleston City Market—focus on the sweetgrass basket weavers rather than souvenir shops. Then walk up King Street, Charleston's main shopping corridor, window-shopping antique stores, galleries, and boutiques. Return to your hotel for a rest before evening.
Evening: Ghost Tour & Dinner
Book a ghost tour after dark—the Haunted Jail Tour or a walking tour through the historic district. Charleston's haunted reputation is well-earned. Afterward, rooftop drinks or cocktails in the French Quarter. Dinner at a Lowcountry restaurant you spotted during your afternoon walk.
Day 2: Plantations & Water
Morning: Plantation Visit
Drive to Magnolia Plantation when gates open (around 9 AM). Explore the gardens while it's cool—the Romantic-style gardens date to the 1680s. Take the nature train tour through the former rice fields. Consider the "From Slavery to Freedom" tour for essential historical context. Allow 3-4 hours. Alternative: Middleton Place for formal gardens or McLeod Plantation for the most thorough slavery interpretation.
Midday: Lunch
Return to Charleston for late lunch downtown, or continue to Mount Pleasant and eat at one of the Shem Creek waterfront restaurants. Either way, you'll be positioned for your afternoon activity.
Afternoon: Water Activity
Option A: Kayak through Shem Creek on a 2-hour guided tour, watching for dolphins and wading birds in the salt marsh. Option B: Book a harbor cruise from downtown for views of Fort Sumter, The Battery, and the Ravenel Bridge. Option C: Sunset sail on the Schooner Pride for the most romantic option.
Evening: Shem Creek Sunset
Sunset drinks at Shem Creek—multiple waterfront restaurants overlook shrimp boats coming in. Red's Ice House and Saltwater Cowboys are local favorites. Stay for dinner watching the sky turn pink over the marsh, or return downtown for a special meal.
Day 3: Beaches & Exploration
Morning: Angel Oak Tree
Drive to Johns Island (20 minutes) to see the Angel Oak Tree—one of the oldest living things east of the Mississippi. The 400-500-year-old live oak's massive limbs spread 90 feet from the trunk. Free admission. Visit early for fewer crowds; the scale impresses more in person than photos convey.
Midday & Afternoon: Beach Day
Continue to Folly Beach (15 minutes further on the same route). Spend the afternoon on the sand, grab fish tacos at a beach bar, rent a paddleboard, or just relax. Folly has surfer vibes and good restaurants. Alternatives: Sullivan's Island for a quieter, more natural beach; Isle of Palms for wider sand and family-friendly facilities.
Late Afternoon: Downtown Return
Return to downtown for any sights you missed: the Fort Sumter ferry if you haven't taken it, the International African American Museum, or simply more wandering through historic streets. The late afternoon light transforms the architecture.
Evening: Farewell Dinner
Final dinner at a restaurant that caught your eye earlier in the trip—or splurge on a spot you've been saving. End with a walk along The Battery as the lights come on, the harbor turning to black silk under the stars.
Customize Your Itinerary
Best Time to Visit Charleston SC
Spring (March - May)
Highs: 65-80°F. The best overall weather. Azaleas bloom at Magnolia Plantation late March through April, transforming the gardens. Spoleto Festival (late May/June) fills the city with performing arts. Gardens are gorgeous but so are crowds and prices—this is peak season.
Best for: Gardens, festivals, ideal weather
Summer (June - August)
Highs: 85-95°F. Hot, humid, with afternoon thunderstorms. Walking downtown is uncomfortable midday. Beach season means crowds at Folly and IOP. Plan outdoor activities for early morning; embrace afternoon AC. Lower hotel rates than spring despite beach demand.
Best for: Beach lovers, budget-conscious travelers
Fall (September - November)
Highs: 65-80°F. Excellent weather returns. Oyster season opens. Crowds thin after Labor Day. Hurricane risk through October, but most years see clear weather. Fall colors appear in November. Best combination of weather, crowds, and prices.
Best for: Best value, comfortable weather, oysters
Winter (December - February)
Highs: 50-60°F. Mild by Northern standards but cool for extended outdoor time. Fewest crowds, lowest prices. Holiday events in December. Camellias bloom late winter. Some outdoor activities less enjoyable but still possible.
Best for: Budget travelers, avoiding crowds
Hurricane Season
Charleston Events Calendar 2026
January 8-18
Charleston Restaurant Week
Special prix-fixe menus at participating restaurants. Great way to try upscale spots at lower prices.
February 1
Lowcountry Oyster Festival
At Boone Hall Plantation. Live music, shucking contests, and oysters from local restaurants. One of the region's biggest food events.
February 13-15
Southeastern Wildlife Exposition
The largest wildlife art and sporting life event of its kind. 500+ artists and exhibitors across downtown venues.
March 18 - April 11
Festival of Houses & Gardens
Rare access to private homes and gardens throughout downtown Charleston. Architecture and garden lovers won't want to miss it.
April 13-21
Charleston Jazz Festival
World-class jazz performances at venues throughout the city. Combines local talent with national and international acts.
May 22 - June 7
Spoleto Festival USA
17 days of world-class performing arts: opera, theater, dance, and music in historic venues across Charleston. The city's premier cultural event.
Where to Stay in Charleston SC
Staying downtown puts you within walking distance of attractions, restaurants, and nightlife. The tradeoff is higher prices and limited parking. Here's how to choose the right neighborhood:
French Quarter / South of Broad
The most scenic, historic area. Steps from Rainbow Row, The Battery, and top restaurants. Cobblestone streets, hidden gardens, antebellum architecture. Quieter at night than King Street. This is where to stay for a quintessential Charleston experience.
Best for: Romance, history lovers, first-time visitors
Marion Square / Central Downtown
Central to everything: King Street shopping, City Market, restaurants in every direction. More urban energy than South of Broad. Weekend farmers market at Marion Square. Hotels here tend to be larger and more affordable than the French Quarter.
Best for: Shopping, nightlife access, central location
Upper King Street
The trendy strip north of Calhoun. Best restaurant and bar scene in Charleston. Younger, more energetic vibe. Walking distance to downtown attractions but slightly farther from The Battery. Good option if nightlife is a priority.
Best for: Foodies, nightlife seekers, younger travelers
Mount Pleasant
Across the Ravenel Bridge from downtown (5-10 minute drive). Lower prices than downtown. Near Shem Creek restaurants and kayaking, Patriots Point, Boone Hall Plantation. Good option for families or budget-conscious visitors with a rental car.
Best for: Budget travelers, families, those with cars
Beach Towns (Folly Beach, Isle of Palms)
25-30 minutes from downtown. Ocean views, beach access from your hotel, beach-town atmosphere. You'll need to drive for downtown attractions and plantations. Consider for summer visits when beach time is the priority.
Best for: Beach lovers, summer visits, those who don't mind driving
Getting Around Charleston
Walking Downtown
Downtown Charleston is compact and walkable—one of the most pedestrian-friendly cities in the South. Rainbow Row, The Battery, City Market, and the French Quarter all connect within a 20-minute walk. Most downtown hotels put you within walking distance of major attractions.
Wear comfortable shoes—cobblestones and uneven brick sidewalks are common. The free CARTA trolley runs a downtown loop when your feet need a break.
When You Need a Car
Plantations, Angel Oak, and beaches all require transportation. Options: rent a car for specific days, book tours with transportation included, or use Uber/Lyft (gets expensive for longer trips like plantations).
A hybrid approach works well: stay downtown without a car, then rent one for your plantation/beach day. Return it before heading back downtown.
Parking in Charleston
Public Garages
$2-4 per hour with daily maximums around $20-25. The garages at 83 Queen Street and 99 Market Street are centrally located. Aquarium garage (24 Calhoun) is convenient for Fort Sumter ferry.
Street Parking
Metered parking runs $2 per hour with 2-hour limits in most areas. Free after 6 PM weekdays and all day Sunday. Hard to find spots during peak hours.
Hotel Parking
Most downtown hotels charge $25-40 per night for parking (self-park or valet). Factor this into your budget if bringing a car. Some boutique hotels have no parking.
Practical Tips for Your Charleston Trip
What to Pack
Comfortable walking shoes (essential for cobblestones). Light, breathable clothing for warm weather. Layers for air conditioning and cooler evenings. Sunscreen and sunglasses year-round—the Southern sun is stronger than expected. Umbrella for summer afternoon storms. Something dressier for upscale restaurants.
Reservations
Book popular restaurants (Husk, FIG, The Ordinary, Hall's Chophouse) weeks in advance for weekend dinners. Fort Sumter ferry sells out on weekends—book 3-5 days ahead. Ghost tours and sunset sails sell out on busy weekends. Plantations don't require reservations for general admission.
Tipping Etiquette
Restaurant tipping: 18-20% is standard. Tour guides appreciate $5-10 per person for walking tours, more for private experiences. Carriage drivers: $2-5 per person. Valet: $3-5. Bartenders: $1-2 per drink. Hotel housekeeping: $3-5 per night.
Weather Preparation
Summer: expect afternoon thunderstorms that pass quickly but can be intense. Plan outdoor activities for morning. Humidity is real; hydrate and take breaks in AC. Winter: pack layers, evenings cool down. Spring/fall: bring a light jacket for evening harbor cruises.
Money-Saving Tips
Lunch at nice restaurants costs half of dinner. Free activities abound: Rainbow Row, The Battery, Waterfront Park, Angel Oak. Book mid-week for lower hotel rates. Stay outside downtown for significant savings. Visit during shoulder seasons (early March, late November) for lower prices.
Safety Notes
Charleston is generally safe for tourists. Take normal precautions with valuables. The historic district is well-lit and walkable at night. Stay aware of surroundings outside tourist areas. Summer heat is a real concern—stay hydrated and take breaks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about planning your Charleston trip
How many days do I need in Charleston?
Three days is ideal for most visitors. Day one covers downtown highlights (Rainbow Row, The Battery, City Market, a food or ghost tour). Day two takes you to a plantation and adds a harbor cruise or kayaking. Day three includes the Angel Oak Tree and a beach day. Two days works if you focus on downtown and one major excursion. Four to five days lets you add multiple plantations, more beach time, and day trips to Beaufort or Savannah without rushing.
When is the best time to visit Charleston SC?
Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer the best weather: temperatures in the 60s-80s, lower humidity, and beautiful gardens. Spring sees azaleas bloom at Magnolia Plantation in late March through April. Summer (June-August) is hot and humid (high 80s-90s) with afternoon thunderstorms—visit beaches in the morning. Winter (December-February) is mild (50s-60s) with fewer crowds and lower prices. Hurricane season runs June through November, with highest risk in August-October.
Do I need a car in Charleston?
Not for downtown—the historic district is compact and walkable, and parking is expensive and limited. You'll need a car (or tour with transportation) for plantations, the Angel Oak Tree, and beaches. The best approach: stay downtown without a car, then rent one for specific days when you venture out. Uber and Lyft work for shorter trips but get expensive for beach and plantation runs.
Where should I stay in Charleston?
The French Quarter and South of Broad put you in the most scenic, historic areas within walking distance of Rainbow Row, The Battery, and top restaurants. Marion Square area offers central access to King Street shopping and nightlife. Mount Pleasant (across the Ravenel Bridge) has lower prices with 10-minute access to downtown. Beach towns (Folly Beach, Isle of Palms) work if you want ocean time and don't mind driving to downtown attractions.
What should I book in advance?
Popular restaurants (Husk, FIG, The Ordinary, Hall's Chophouse) fill up weeks ahead for weekend dinners—reserve as soon as your dates are set. Fort Sumter ferry tickets sell out on weekends; book 3-5 days ahead. Ghost tours and sunset sails sell out on busy weekends. Plantations don't require reservations for general admission, but consider booking guided tours for houses. Hotels in peak season (spring and fall) can sell out downtown.
How much does a Charleston trip cost?
Budget varies widely. Mid-range estimate for 3 days: Downtown hotel $200-350/night ($600-1050 total). Meals at nice restaurants $50-100 per person for dinner, less for lunch. Tours average $30-50 each (ghost tour, food tour, plantation, harbor cruise). Fort Sumter ferry $30. Add parking ($25-40/day if driving) and tips (18-20% at restaurants, $5-10 per person for tour guides). Total for two people, 3 days: roughly $1,500-2,500 depending on choices.
Is Charleston walkable?
Downtown Charleston is extremely walkable—one of the most pedestrian-friendly cities in the South. The historic district measures about 2 miles from end to end. Rainbow Row to The Battery is a 15-minute walk. City Market to Upper King Street takes about 20 minutes. Wear comfortable shoes: cobblestones and uneven sidewalks are common. The free CARTA downtown trolley helps for longer distances when your feet need a break.
What should I pack for Charleston?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential (cobblestones!). Light, breathable clothing for warm weather. Layers for air conditioning and cooler evenings. Sunscreen and sunglasses year-round—the Southern sun is strong. An umbrella for summer afternoon storms. Something dressier if you have reservations at upscale restaurants. A light jacket for winter visits and evening harbor cruises.
Can I visit Charleston on a budget?
Charleston has expensive options but also plenty of free activities. Rainbow Row, The Battery, Waterfront Park, City Market browsing, and Angel Oak Park are all free. Beaches are free (small parking fee). The Fort Sumter Visitor Center has free exhibits. Lodging outside downtown (West Ashley, North Charleston, Mount Pleasant) costs significantly less. Lunch at casual spots costs a fraction of dinner at fine dining restaurants.
Is Charleston good for couples?
Charleston consistently ranks among America's most romantic cities. Sunset sailing on the Schooner Pride, private carriage rides through the historic district, candlelit dinners at celebrated restaurants, rooftop cocktails overlooking the harbor, walking The Battery at twilight—the city was designed for romance. Many hotels offer honeymoon and anniversary packages. Book well ahead for special-occasion restaurants.
Is Charleston good for families?
Families love Charleston. Kids enjoy dolphin watching cruises, the South Carolina Aquarium (sea turtle hospital), exploring the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier, beach days at Folly or Isle of Palms, and horse-drawn carriage rides. The Children's Museum of the Lowcountry is designed for younger kids. Fort Sumter appeals to older children interested in history. Most restaurants are kid-friendly, though fine dining spots often skew adult.
What's the nightlife like in Charleston?
Upper King Street has Charleston's best nightlife—craft cocktail bars, rooftop spots, and a younger, more energetic vibe. The French Quarter and downtown are quieter after dinner. Ghost tours and haunted pub crawls offer evening entertainment. Live music venues include The Music Hall and local bars. Charleston closes earlier than big cities; most bars wind down by 2 AM. Rooftop bars (The Watch at The Restoration, Pavilion Bar at Market Pavilion Hotel) are popular for sunset drinks.
Start Exploring
Charleston rewards visitors who take their time. Use this guide as your starting point, but leave room for wandering down a side street that catches your eye, lingering over an extra course at dinner, and saying yes to that second helping of shrimp and grits.