Need help planning your trip to Charleston?
Whether you are planning a week long trip or just a weekend, below are a few suggested itineraries! Each itinerary is compiled to maximize the must see sites while you are in Charleston (The holy City). If you would like more suggestions or help arranging your trip! Visit our local travel advisor at TRAVEL MY HORIZONS
7-day itinerary for a first-time visitor to Charleston:
Day 1: Arrival and Historic District Exploration
Explore the Historic District, visit famous homes like the Nathaniel Russell House, and walk along the Battery.
Day 2: Charleston Architecture and Gardens
Visit Middleton Place, a historic plantation with stunning gardens, and take an architecture tour to admire the city’s unique antebellum homes.
Day 3: Food and Drink
Sample Lowcountry cuisine at popular restaurants like Husk or FIG, and take a brewery or distillery tour to taste local flavors.
Day 4: Waterfront and Harbor
Stroll along the waterfront, visit the Charleston City Marina, and take a harbor cruise or kayak tour to see the city from a different perspective.
Day 5: Plantations and Gardens
Visit Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, featuring beautiful flowers, trees, and a nature center, or explore Boone Hall Plantation with its historic mansion and scenic grounds.
Day 6: Beach Day
Head to Folly Beach or Sullivan’s Island for some sun, sand, and surf. Enjoy water sports or simply relax on the beach.
Day 7: Market Street and Shopping
Visit the historic Charleston City Market for souvenirs and local goods. Browse King Street’s upscale boutiques.
5-day itinerary for must-see attractions in Charleston, SC:
Day 1: Historic District
- Start at the Nathaniel Russell House, a National Historic Landmark
- Walk to the nearby Heyward-Washington House, another historic home
- Explore the charming streets and admire the antebellum architecture
- Visit St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, a historic church with stunning views
Day 2: Plantations and Gardens
- Visit Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, featuring beautiful flowers and a nature center
- Explore the plantation’s petting zoo, swamp garden, and scenic trails
- Head to Middleton Place, another historic plantation with stunning gardens
Day 3: Waterfront and Harbor
- Start at the Charleston City Marina, where you can take a harbor cruise or kayak tour
- Walk along the waterfront to Adger’s Wharf, offering stunning views of the harbor
- Visit Fort Sumter National Monument, where the Civil War began
Day 4: Food, Drink, and Culture
- Sample Lowcountry cuisine at popular restaurants like Husk or FIG
- Take a brewery or distillery tour to taste local flavors
- Explore the Charleston City Market for souvenirs and local goods
Day 5: Beach Day and Southern Charm
- Head to Folly Beach or Sullivan’s Island for some sun, sand, and surf
- Return to downtown Charleston for some last-minute shopping on King Street or Rainbow Row
3-day itinerary for a quick weekend in Charleston, SC:
Day 1: Historic District and Architecture
- Start at the Nathaniel Russell House, a National Historic Landmark
- Walk to the nearby Heyward-Washington House, another historic home
- Explore the charming streets and admire the antebellum architecture
- Visit St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, a historic church with stunning views
- Enjoy dinner at one of Charleston’s renowned restaurants, such as Husk or FIG
Day 2: Plantations and Waterfront
- Visit Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, featuring beautiful flowers and a nature center
- Head to the Charleston City Marina for lunch and take in the harbor views
- Take a harbor cruise or kayak tour to see the city from a different perspective
- End the day with sunset drinks at a rooftop bar overlooking the city
Day 3: Southern Charm and Beach Time
- Spend the morning shopping on King Street or browsing the Charleston City Market for souvenirs
- Head to Folly Beach or Sullivan’s Island for some sun, sand, and surf (about 30 minutes outside of downtown)
- Return to downtown Charleston for a farewell dinner at one of its many excellent restaurants
This itinerary provides a taste of Charleston’s history, architecture, natural beauty, and Southern charm, making it perfect for a quick weekend getaway!