Downtown Charleston Travel Guide
Charleston
Visit Downtown Charleston
Popular places to visit
Charleston City Market
During your trip to Charleston, you can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Charleston City Market. Discover the area's stunning cathedral or seek out its local tours.
Medical University of South Carolina
Take a campus tour or just explore the area of Medical University of South Carolina during your travels in Charleston. Stroll along the area's beautiful beaches or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.
College of Charleston
Explore the campus of College of Charleston during your trip to Charleston. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or visit the churches in the area.
Waterfront Park
Waterfront Park is just one of the places to see in Charleston, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Wander the area's waterfront or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
South Carolina Aquarium
Take the children to visit the sea creatures at South Carolina Aquarium during your holiday to Charleston. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or seek out the local tours.
Rainbow Row
Find out about the history of Charleston with a stop at Rainbow Row. Make time for the churches and local tours in this walkable area.
Top hotels in Downtown Charleston
The Francis Marion Hotel
"A wonderful place to stay. Staff was very helpful. The room was relaxing and clean. Love the charm of the hotel."
Reviewed on 22 Jun 2026
The Ryder Hotel
"Second time at the Ryder, love the location, the vibe and hanging poolside!"
Reviewed on 21 Jun 2026
Emeline
"Have stayed at the Emeline numerous times. Love the hotel, its location and the staff are wonderful. Nicole at the front desk is always helpful, friendly and a perfect example of what a front desk staff should be! Will be returning soon!"
Reviewed on 21 Jun 2026
The Charleston Place
"Wonderful stay! Love the renovation. Looking forward to the spa opening eventually. I assume it will exceed expectations as The Charleston Place always does!!"
Reviewed on 19 Jun 2026
The Vendue
"You enter into an art gallery with lots of paintings, sculptures and more to look at and engage with. A very nice fine dining restaurant and a great rooftop bar/cafe. Excellent service and can walk to almost anywhere you'd want to go."
Reviewed on 19 Jun 2026
Hotel Bennett
"It’s a beautiful hotel worth visiting when you’re in Charleston"
Reviewed on 20 Jun 2026
Check Downtown Charleston hotel availability
Where to stay in Downtown Charleston
Charleston Historic District
Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Charleston City Market to Shops at Charleston Place – discover Charleston Historic District, a destination also famous for its shopping.
West Ashley
West Ashley is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Citadel Mall or Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site.
Cannonborough Elliotborough
If you're spending some time in Cannonborough Elliotborough, Upper King Design District and Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum are top sights worth seeing.
King Street
If you're spending some time in King Street, Marion Square and Charleston Music Hall are top sights worth seeing.
