Charleston, USA: 5 Days of Southern Charm

Experience Southern hospitality and charm in historic Charleston.

22 April 2023

Charleston, United States, is a charming city known for its historic landmarks, southern hospitality and beautiful beaches. Tourists can explore the well-preserved architecture of Rainbow Row, walk along scenic Waterfront Park and indulge in delicious Lowcountry cuisine. A trip to Charleston offers a relaxing and cultural experience that is perfect for history enthusiasts and foodies alike.

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Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and French Quarter Exploration

  • Check in at the charming Belmond Charleston Place hotel.
  • Grab a coffee and croissant at 132 Spring Bakery.
  • Take a stroll through the picturesque French Quarter, admiring the colorful houses and historic buildings.
  • Visit the Charleston City Market to browse local art and crafts, and pick up some sweetgrass baskets.
  • Head to 82 Queen for classic Southern cuisine, try the shrimp and grits or pecan-crusted chicken.
Day 2

Beach Day

  • Enjoy a beach day at Sullivan's Island, just 20 minutes from Charleston.
  • Rent a bike and explore the island's quaint neighborhoods.
  • Grab a burger and a beer at the iconic Poe's Tavern.
  • Relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
  • Catch the sunset at the Sullivan's Island Lighthouse.
Day 3

Plantation Tours

  • Take a guided tour of Magnolia Plantation, one of America's oldest plantations and famed for its stunning gardens.
  • Stop by Drayton Hall, a preserved 18th century estate.
  • Visit Boone Hall Plantation, known for its famous avenue of oaks and historic slave cabins.
  • Sample lowcountry cuisine at Husk, James Beard award-winning restaurant featuring local ingredients.
Day 4

History and Art

  • Explore Charleston's rich history with a tour of the Nathaniel Russell House and the Aiken-Rhett House.
  • Visit the Gibbes Museum of Art and discover the city's cultural heritage.
  • Try the BBQ at Lewis Barbecue, where the pitmaster has won national awards.
  • Take a sunset sail on the Schooner Pride and enjoy the city views from the harbor.
  • Have a nightcap at the old-school speakeasy, The Gin Joint.
Day 5

Gardens and Farewell

  • Visit Middleton Place Gardens, one of the oldest landscaped gardens in America.
  • Stop for a picnic under the ancient oak trees.
  • Shop for souvenirs on King Street.
  • Have a farewell dinner at FIG, one of Charleston's best restaurants featuring seasonal ingredients.
  • End the trip with a Charleston tradition, a nightcap at the cozy Blind Tiger Pub.
  • End of Itinerary.

Length of stay

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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

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Charleston Fun on a Budget

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Charleston on a Budget: 2 Days of Southern Charm

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Charleston's Charm: A Day Trip Guide

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