Top Charleston Half-day Tours

Explore one of the most popular plantations in the Charleston area with ease on this half-day guided tour of Middleton Plantation with a small group. Enjoy convenient pickup from your hotel and a brief driving tour of Charleston’s Old and Historic District on the way. While the entrance fee is not included, you’ll benefit from the expertise of a guide who knows the plantation well as you walk around the estate.

Visiting both Middleton Place Plantation and Drayton Hall on the same tour offers travelers a richer and more complete perspective of Charleston’s history and heritage. Though located close to one another along the Ashley River, each site tells a very different story. Middleton Place is renowned for its breathtaking landscaped gardens, living history demonstrations, and preserved grounds that highlight the lifestyle and agricultural achievements of one of colonial America’s most influential families. In contrast, Drayton Hall is celebrated for its architectural purity as the finest example of Palladian design in the United States, preserved in its original 18th-century state without modern alterations. Together, these plantations allow visitors to experience both artistic beauty and architectural grandeur, while also engaging with the deeper historical narratives of the Low country, including the lives of the enslaved who made these estates possible.

Charleston is such a relaxed city that it’s hard to believe that it’s much busier than the towns along the coast. Take an opportunity to leave the city streets for the shoreline during this private guided tour. You’ll visit the islands of the Charleston peninsula, first stopping at Folly Beach then visiting Sullivan’s Island. Throughout the tour, you’ll stop for photos at two lighthouses, a popular tourist beach, and a historic fort.

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.

Experience Charleston’s Festival of Lights the intimate way without crowded buses or big group tours. Chicora Tours provides a cozy small group journey with a maximum of twelve guests in a clean, spacious, and comfortable tour van with festive ambiance and holiday music. Enjoy hot chocolate and personal service as we explore millions of sparkling lights and magical displays. Avoid the hassle of parking and large tour groups. Our experience is relaxed, friendly, and perfect for couples, families, and friends seeking something truly special. Celebrate Charleston’s most enchanting holiday tradition in comfort and style. Please note that this experience also includes about 2 hours of free time to explore the park, roast marshmallows, explore Santa’s village or ride the Christmas light train. A moderate amount of walking is required.

Pickup and drop-off from downtown Charleston, South Carolina make it easy to tour Magnolia Plantation, one of the oldest plantations in the South. This 4-in-1 tour includes a narrated drive out to the plantation, a walking tour of the garden, tram tour through the property, and tour of the house itself, providing incredible value.

Visit Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens on this 4.5-hour tour from Charleston, South Carolina. One of the oldest working plantations in the United States, Boone Hall was founded in 1681 and still grows crops. During your tour led by a guide in period costume, you'll see the plantation's slave quarters and learn about its history and modern-day use. Select a morning or afternoon departure time when booking. Enjoy a personalized experience on this small-group tour of just 15 people.

Getting to the Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park is difficult without a car. Don't worry about hiring a vehicle or booking a taxi with this bus tour. Skip the hassle of parking at this event and spend more time admiring the festive lights. Keep your energy levels up with included snacks and light refreshments. Perfect for anyone looking to get into the holiday spirit.

Magnolia Plantation sits well outside Charleston, which puts it out of reach without a car. This half-day tour includes round-trip transfers from the Charleston Visitor Center, and a guide who walks you through the plantation house on arrival. Choose either the nature train ride through the gardens or the boat trip along the Ashley River to finish.

Discover Charleston's rich history and scenic beauty on a tailored 3-hour private driving tour. Uncover the vibrant stories behind iconic sights like Rainbow Row, the historic Battery, and the majestic Angel Oak Tree, while enjoying local insights that larger tours often miss. This private journey is ideal for both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers looking to delve deeper into Charleston's charm. Customize your experience by focusing on architecture, history, or photography. Enjoy convenient pickup from anywhere in downtown Charleston for a seamless adventure. - Enjoy a flexible, private driving tour tailored to your interests. - Highlights include Rainbow Row, The Battery, and optional stops at Folly Beach or Angel Oak Tree. - Explore historic streets filled with charm, perfect for photography and storytelling. - Relax with convenient pickup anywhere in downtown Charleston and expert local guidance.

Explore the rich history of Charleston on this immersive 6-hour private driving tour that reveals the city's hidden gems and iconic landmarks. Discover the beauty of Boone Hall Plantation with its majestic Avenue of Oaks, or select from alternative historic estates like Magnolia or Middleton Place. This tour combines luxury with local insight, ensuring a personalized experience tailored to your interests. Enjoy picturesque views of Rainbow Row, The Battery, and more while stopping for lunch at a recommended local eatery. Perfect for first-time visitors, history lovers, and small groups seeking a unique Charleston experience. - Private driving tour through Charleston’s historic streets and neighborhoods - Visit Boone Hall Plantation or choose from several other historic sites - Enjoy a flexible itinerary tailored to your interests and photo opportunities - Pickup available from downtown Charleston or nearby hotels/Airbnbs

See Charleston differently—and come home with the photographs to prove it. Explore colorful streets, hidden alleyways, historic architecture, reflections, shadows, and changing Lowcountry light while learning directly from a photographer with more than 30 years of photography and teaching experience. This is hands-on, relaxed, and built around your skill level. Learn the exposure triangle—aperture, shutter speed, and ISO—along with focus, depth of field, lens choice, composition, framing, perspective, and working creatively with light. More experienced photographers can dive deeper into layering, visual storytelling, and developing their personal style. Bring anything from a smartphone to professional gear. You’ll leave with great photographs of Charleston, a better understanding of your camera, and practical techniques you can use anywhere you shoot next.

A combination of two of the historic museums in Charleston. The Aiken-Rhett House offers an intimate, visceral encounter with the human stories and social structures that shaped the city, while the Charleston Museum provides a broader, comprehensive understanding of its pivotal role in American history. Together, they offer a nuanced and unforgettable perspective that will deepen your appreciation for this remarkable city. The museum is a great way to immerse yourself in all things Charleston. It is just half a block from the Aiken-Rhett House and just across the street from the Charleston Visitors Center. The tour is expected to last approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes in total.

Charleston's rich history and vibrant pub culture come alive on this expertly guided pub tour. Journey through the historic French Quarter, visiting local pubs while savoring craft beer, wine, or cider at each stop. This 3-hour tour offers an engaging mix of education and entertainment, ensuring a memorable experience as you learn about Charleston's past through its '5 P's'—Pints, Pubs, Prostitutes, Pirates, and Politics. With certified guides, indulge in fascinating stories, share appetizers, and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for history buffs and beer enthusiasts alike, this tour is for guests 21 and over only. - Professionally guided tour through Charleston's French Quarter - Sample local craft beer, wine, or cider at three pubs - Enjoy at least one sharable appetizer along the way - Maximum of 10-15 minutes walking over the 3-hour duration

Explore Charleston's historic pub culture with this all-inclusive tour uncovering 350+ years of history and Pub Culture on this expertly guided tour. Journey through the Historic French Quarter, visiting local pubs where you’ll learn about the city's rich heritage and intriguing tales of Pints, Pubs, Prostitutes, Pirates, and Politics*. Each tour includes a City-Certified guide, drinks at three pubs, and at least one sharable appetizer to complement your experience. Perfect for culture buffs and beer enthusiasts alike, this tour promises education, entertainment, and enlightenment! - Professional guides certified in history and beer (Unique in Charleston!) - Enjoy craft beer, wine, or cider at three local pubs - Includes at least one sharable appetizer - Ideal for guests aged 21 and older, with a maximum of 15-20 minutes of actual walking. *No Politics after 1940

Prefer to explore Charleston in comfort? Whether it's a hot summer afternoon, a chilly winter morning, or you simply prefer not to walk, Miss Alice's driving tour is the perfect way to experience the Holy City. Your tour includes complimentary pickup and drop-off at your downtown Charleston accommodations. Along the way, you'll see historic churches, the College of Charleston, the Charleston City Market, elegant homes, picturesque neighborhoods, and many of the city's most iconic landmarks. Relax, enjoy the scenery, and let Miss Alice bring Charleston's fascinating history to life on this unforgettable driving tour.

Boone Hall Plantation- A USA Today’s 10 Best Choice as the “Best Plantation in the Charleston Area!” Explore the rich history of the South Carolina Lowcountry with Private Plantation Tours. Walk beneath ancient live oaks draped in Spanish moss, while learning about the legacies of rice and cotton plantations. Understand the profound impact of both the wealthy plantation owners and the resilient enslaved Africans who contributed to the region's culture and economy. This plantation visit offers a unique perspective through preserved gardens and historic exhibits, ensuring a meaningful experience that connects past events to contemporary Charleston. - Visit 1 historic plantation with house tour and grounds tour in the Charleston area - Transportation included for a hassle-free experience- private only your party - Gain insights into the lives of enslaved Africans and plantation owners

Step back in time during this private Drayton Hall Plantation tour with transportation to see the oldest preserved and unrestored plantation house in America still open to the public. Drayton Hall is one of the finest examples of Palladium architecture in America. Explore centuries of authentic history, architectural detail, and surrounding grounds while gaining rare insight into the past through guided commentary. Hear the stories of the generation of the Drayton families that lived here and stories of those that were enslaved to work the land, Dedicated round-trip transport ensures a smooth, seamless journey to and from this historic landmark.

Discover local food and learn about the city and its history from a local Charlestonian on this private guided tour. Learn about Southern foods such as grits, fried oysters, and fried green tomatoes and the culture behind them, including how the African slave trade introduced ingredients to the local diet. This private tour provides a more intimate, personalized experience.

Skip the tourist traps and lose yourself in the flavors of true Charleston cuisine. Taste local delicacies like classic Carolina-style BBQ, historic She-Crab soup, and famous fried green tomatoes and, as with all of our tours, you'll also indulge in our decadent Secret Dish, which just might make you leave singing a happy song! Your local guide will steer you toward the very best spots to enjoy these classic Southern dishes.

Explore beyond the Charleston city limits with this private half-day tour. Get picked up at the location of your choice and set out along the scenic River Road to the historic landmarks of West Ashley. Visit Drayton Hall, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, and Middleton Place at your leisure. Maximize time with this private, half-day sightseeing excursion including a box lunch.