Top Charleston Full-day Tours

Experience Charleston’s charm through its flavors and history on this 2.5-hour small-group walking and tasting tour. Explore the city’s most iconic streets and neighborhoods—including the French Quarter, South of Broad, and the colorful Rainbow Row—areas often missed by traditional food tours. Led by a City of Charleston-certified guide, this tour blends culinary delights with cultural insights. Enjoy three tastings from local favorites: two quick grab-and-go bites and one relaxed, sit-down experience where you can savor Lowcountry cuisine and learn about its rich heritage. Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase at the sit-down stop. Along the way, immerse yourself in Charleston’s architecture, stories, and vibrant street life. Your journey concludes near the Charleston City Market, leaving you perfectly positioned to continue exploring the Holy City at your own pace.

Magnolia Plantation has been in Drayton family hands since 1676, and its Romantic-style gardens are among the oldest in America still open to visitors. This small-group full-day trip covers three guided experiences at the site: a tour of the historic house, a nature train ride through the gardens and cypress swamps, and the Slavery to Freedom tour, which follows the lives of the people enslaved there.

Visit the site where the American Civil War began without the hassle of arranging transportation or waiting in line for tickets. This Fort Sumter package includes admission skip-the-line tickets as well as round-trip ferry transport. Take in views of Rainbow Row and the Battery as you cruise through Charleston Harbor. Then, enjoy time to explore the historic fort and museum, before the return ferry ride.

Step into the storied streets of Charleston where centuries of American history unfold behind wrought-iron gates and beneath canopies of live oaks draped in Spanish moss. This self-guided walking tour leads you through the City's most captivating landmarks, from the pastel Georgian townhouses of Rainbow Row to the grounds where the Civil War began. Wander through the nation's oldest public market, pause in elegant gardens, and stand on the seawall at The Battery as the Ashley and Cooper Rivers converge. Along the way, hear stories of revolution and resilience, of enslaved Africans who shaped the city's culture, and of the devastating 1886 earthquake that nearly leveled everything. Charleston's charm lies in its contradictions — a city that celebrates beauty while confronting a complicated past. From the towering spire of St. Michael's Church to the limbs of the Angel Oak Tree, every stop reveals another layer of this remarkable Southern city.

Experience Charleston and the surrounding area like a local with your own Private Guide Come explore one of the oldest cities in America with its historic homes, French Quarter, and beautiful waterfront. Then let us take you out to discover the charming Old Village in Mt. Pleasant. The tour will pause for a lunch break* in the middle of the day in either Downtown Charleston or Mt. Pleasant (guest's choice) before continuing on. In the afternoon, guests will tour either Boone Hall Plantation or the McLeod Historic Site - two historic and beautiful plantations near Charleston. Let us do the driving and show you the best Charleston has to offer - both inside and outside downtown! *cost of lunch not included in tour price

Learn all about more than 300 years of history on this guided carriage tour of Charleston. See the many mansions, churches, and gardens as your horse-drawn carriage tour covers more than 2.5 miles and 30 blocks of historic Charleston. Belgian and Percheron draft horses lead you through the streets while you learn about this “Holy City” and its role in the Civil War—leave your guidebook at home, these stories are better.

Go beyond the standard walking tours of downtown and explore more of the Charleston Lowcountry on this extensive van tour. Your guide will show you a comprehensive view of Charleston, from Charlotte Street to the beaches and lighthouses along the coast. You’ll visit over a dozen different sites, including Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, Drayton Hall, and the Folly Beach Fishing Pier. You’ll even ride a water taxi between downtown and Hog Island. Note: this is an active tour; expect a few long walks, sand dunes, and steps.

Discover Charleston at a relaxed pace with this private, elevated culinary experience that blends food, culture, and history. Starting in the historic French Quarter, your group will enjoy a curated journey through Lowcountry classics and modern interpretations, with stops at three top restaurants for generous tasting portions—more than a full meal. Your experience is fully tailored: before the tour, your guide will connect to learn your preferences and dietary needs, ensuring every dish suits your taste. The final stop is your choice—savory, sweet, or a surprise delight. As you dine, your City of Charleston-certified guide shares stories of the city’s past and its influence on today’s cuisine. Light walking between locations keeps the focus on food and culture. Alcoholic beverages can be purchased or added with an optional libations package. Perfect for special occasions, couples, or friends, Taste of History offers an immersive way to savor Charleston’s culinary heritage.

'Whale of a Tale' is a playful, interactive walking tour of Charleston designed especially for young children and families. The adventure begins at The Loutrel Hotel, where children meet Wally the History Whale, a silly, self-assured and jovial puppet who always gets his history wrong. Each child receives a Whale of a Tale Bingo card and set off on a guided scavenger-style walk through the city. The tour includes a stop at Rainbow Row, perfect for family photos. The experience wraps up at Carmella's Dessert Bar, where Wally rewards all children who complete their bingo card with a sweet treat - a joyful finale to their adventure.

Travel back in time to discover one of America’s most historic cities—Charleston, South Carolina—on this guided walking tour. Visit points of interest including Charleston City Hall; the Dock Street Theatre, America’s first theatre; the Old Exchange Building, South Carolina's most historic building; White Point Garden, in the heart of Charleston’s historic district with a spectacular view of Fort Sumter, and many more.

Cruise through Lowcountry tidal creeks and marshes en route to the uninhabited Morris Island on this boat cruise from the Charleston area. A private boat company launches from Bowens Island for the scenic ride through an estuary rich in biodiversity before a soft landing on Morris Island. Spend free time to taking photos of the historic Morris Island Lighthouse, combing for seashells, and looking out for birds, sea turtles, and dolphins before your return.

See the Charleston Harbor by boat with a leisurely sightseeing tour along the Cooper River to Fort Sumter National Monument. Leave the guidebook at home, because this fully-narrated tour focuses on Charleston, South Carolina's history from Civil War sites to antebellum houses and landmarks, passes under Cooper River bridges, and explores a waterfront that’s home to bottlenose dolphins and pelicans.

Experience the picturesque beauty of Charleston Harbor on this private 2-hour sailing cruise. See top Charleston landmarks including The Battery, Ravenel Bridge, and the USS Yorktown from the water, for a fresh perspective that lets you escape the land-based crowds. Bring your own drinks and snacks to enjoy during the cruise, or for a special treat, opt for on-board catering.

Travel back in time to discover one of America’s most historic cities—Charleston, South Carolina—on this guided small-group walking tour. Explore some of the city’s most enchanting alleys and hidden passages. Visit the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon, a colonial building with a 300-year history; Rainbow Row, the longest cluster of Georgian row houses in the United States; plus historic Philadelphia Alley, and many more.

Experience the charm and beauty of Charleston on a morning or afternoon walking tour. With an entertaining guide, take a leisurely stroll through the city’s Historic District, passing antebellum mansions, hidden gardens, historic churches and graveyards, as well as famous sites like Fort Sumter, Rainbow Row, and the Waterfront Battery. Along the way, learn about Charleston’s rich history and contemporary culture.

Spend the day outside of Charleston and discover the trees, tea, and wines of Wadmalaw Island. Travel by luxury minivan and admire the island’s majestic trees at Angel Oak Park before enjoying a trolley tour and unlimited tea at Charleston Tea Garden. Finally, explore the vineyards and enjoy wine tasting at Deep Water Vineyard.

Download GuideAlong’s self-guided driving audio tour of Savannah and Charleston and explore scenic marshlands, historic estates, and coastal beauty. Visit iconic sites like ACE Basin, Angel Oak Tree, Charles Towne Landing, Drayton Hall, Old Sheldon Church Ruins, and Savannah National Wildlife Refuge. Along the way, enjoy stories of the region’s rich history, culture, and wildlife, all while driving at your own pace. Enjoy the freedom to explore offline at your own pace, spending more time at places that interest you and bypassing any that don’t. Stories, tips, and directions play automatically based on your location Travel at your own pace Tour offline using GPS. No cell service or WiFi is needed Suggested itineraries for half, full, or multi-day use No time limits or expiry, and free updates Like having a tour guide along for the drive Purchase one tour per vehicle.

Travel the enchanting roads from Charleston to Savannah, immersing yourself in the beauty of the Lowcountry. This scenic drive unveils moss-draped oak trees, coastal marshes, and charming Southern towns, all while your guide shares insights into the rich history and culture of the region. Upon reaching Savannah, wander through the Historic District, famous for its cobblestone streets, elegant mansions, and beautiful public squares. Don’t miss the iconic Chippewa Square and the vibrant City Market, brimming with local art and shops. A stop at Gallery Espresso for artisan coffee and pastries adds to your delightful journey. - Scenic drive exploring the beauty of the Lowcountry - Visit Savannah's Historic District with its preserved architecture - Experience local culture at City Market and River Street - Perfect for history lovers, families, and couples seeking adventure

Travel along the picturesque roads from Charleston to Savannah, exploring the captivating beauty of the Lowcountry. This tour highlights moss-draped oak trees and coastal marshes, while your guide shares fascinating insights into the region's rich history and culture. Once in Savannah, stroll through the Historic District, where cobblestone streets and elegant mansions await. Don't miss the iconic Chippewa Square and the bustling City Market, filled with local art and shops. A delightful stop at Gallery Espresso for artisan coffee and pastries rounds out this charming experience. - Scenic drive showcasing the stunning Lowcountry landscape - Discover Savannah's Historic District and its preserved architecture - Immerse in local culture at the vibrant City Market and River Street - Ideal for history enthusiasts, families, and adventurous couples