Charleston on a Budget: 2 Days of Southern Charm

Discover Southern charm in Charleston without breaking the bank.

22 June 2023

Charleston is a charming Southern city filled with history and charm. Even on a limited budget, there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy, such as exploring the historic district or visiting the local farmers market. Affordable accommodations can be found outside the city center, and there are many budget-friendly restaurants serving up delicious Southern cuisine.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Historic Walking Tour

  • Check into the NotSo Hostel, a cozy and affordable option in the heart of town
  • Start your day with a stroll down historic King Street, taking in the charming architecture and window shopping
  • Join a guided walking tour of the city to learn about Charleston's rich history and culture
  • Grab lunch at Hominy Grill, a local favorite for Southern comfort food
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the stunning gardens and grounds at Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
  • Enjoy dinner at the only brewery in town, Palmetto Brewing Company, and taste their delicious craft beers
Day 2

Beach Day

  • Take a quick drive to Folly Beach, a laid-back seaside town with gorgeous views and relaxing vibes
  • Rent bicycles and explore the quaint shops and restaurants of the town center
  • Set up camp on the beach for a day of sun, sand, and sea
  • Grab lunch at the Lost Dog Cafe, a cozy spot with tasty sandwiches and salads
  • Take a refreshing dip in the ocean or try your hand at surfing with a lesson from Shaka Surf School
  • Wrap up the day with a juicy burger and cold beer at Jack of Cups Saloon, a funky and eclectic bar with a hippie vibe.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Charleston, United States by plane is to fly into Charleston International Airport. There are many airlines that offer direct flights to Charleston, including Delta, American Airlines, and United.

Car

Driving to Charleston is a great option, as the city is easily accessible via the I-26 and I-526 highways. There are also many rental car companies that operate out of Charleston International Airport.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no train stations in Charleston, so it is not possible to get here by train.

Boat

Charleston is located on the coast, so it is possible to arrive by boat. Charleston Harbor provides a popular docking location for cruise ships, and there are also many marinas where you can dock your own boat or rent a charter.

Bus

Taking a bus to Charleston is a great option, with Greyhound being the most popular bus company that offers trips to the city. The Greyhound station is located downtown and offers connections to many other destinations throughout the country.

Destination

Charleston

Welcome to the city of undeniably charming Southern accents and deliciously sweet tea. Charleston – where the history is rich, the beaches are gorgeous, and the humidity is always lurking.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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