Charleston Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary

Charleston is more than just a destination; it is a sensory experience that stays with you long after you leave. The scent of jasmine and salt air fills the breeze, the sound of church bells chimes on the hour, and the rhythmic clip-clop of horse carriages echoes against centuries-old stucco walls. It is a city that feels suspended in time, yet vibrant with a modern energy driven by a world-class culinary scene.

Walking through the French Quarter or South of Broad, you are stepping into a living museum. The architecture tells the story of immense wealth, tragic wars, and resilience. Whether you are watching the sunrise over the harbor from the Battery or enjoying a plate of shrimp and grits prepared by a James Beard award-winning chef, Charleston offers a level of sophistication and charm that is uniquely its own.

The Holy City’s Gullah Roots

To truly understand Charleston, you must look beyond the mansions and into the rich Gullah Geechee culture that built this city. Descendants of enslaved West Africans, the Gullah people have preserved their heritage through language, cuisine, and art unique to the Sea Islands. You will see this artistry firsthand in the intricate sweetgrass baskets woven by local artisans at the City Market, a craft passed down for generations and a symbol of the region’s enduring spirit.

The influence of Gullah culture is also the backbone of Lowcountry cuisine. Dishes like okra soup, red rice, and hoppin’ john were born from these traditions. Engaging with this history provides a profound and necessary context to the beauty of the Lowcountry landscape.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

The Battery & White Point Garden - This defensive seawall and promenade offers the city’s best views of Fort Sumter and the harbor, lined by spectacular antebellum homes. It is free to visit and located at the tip of the peninsula (0 mi from center).

Fort Sumter National Monument - Accessible only by boat, this historic fort is where the Civil War began. Ferry tickets cost roughly $35 for adults, and the tours depart from Liberty Square (1.5 mi from center) or Patriots Point.

Historic City Market - Stretching four city blocks, this market has been the commercial heart of the city since the 1800s. It is the best place to buy souvenirs, spices, and sweetgrass baskets. Open daily, free to enter (0.2 mi from center).

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens - Located about 10 miles from downtown, this 17th-century estate features America’s oldest public gardens. General admission is around $29, with add-on tours for the house and swamp garden available.

Angel Oak Tree - A short drive to Johns Island (12 mi from center) takes you to this massive live oak estimated to be 400-500 years old. It is free to visit and a stunning photography spot.

Planning Your Visit

Most visitors fly into Charleston International Airport (CHS), which is about a 20-minute drive (12 miles) from the historic downtown. Once you are on the peninsula, having a car can be a burden due to expensive and limited parking. The historic district is incredibly walkable, and for longer distances, ride-share services and the free DASH trolley are convenient options.

Pack layers, regardless of the season. The proximity to the ocean means weather can shift quickly, and air conditioning in restaurants is often set to ‘arctic.’ Most importantly, bring broken-in walking shoes. The historic charm of uneven slate sidewalks and cobblestones is beautiful to look at but unforgiving on the feet after a long day of exploring.

Charleston is a city that rewards those who slow down. Whether you are sipping sweet tea on a piazza, exploring hidden alleyways, or sailing across the harbor at sunset, the magic of the Lowcountry is found in its leisurely pace. Come hungry, come curious, and prepare to be charmed by the most polite city in America.