Itineraries for Your Trip to Charleston
2 Days in Charleston for First Timers
After growing up in Chicago and moving to Europe as a young adult, one of the first historic US cities that caught my eye was atmospheric Charleston. Its old town blends the charm of South Carolina with the architecture of Europe—from cobblestone streets filled with horse-drawn carriages to stately antebellum homes and gardens—and its Civil War–era sites offer an opportunity to delve deeper into US history.
On subsequent visits, I lingered longer and discovered that this coastal city offers more than just history and culture. Nearby Folly Beach is an ideal seaside escape, and the Charleston City Market delights with its range of local crafts and gourmet goodies. Experience the best of the Holy City with these recommendations for how to spend two days in Charleston.
Daytime temperatures soar in Charleston each summer, so wear a hat and light clothing to stay cool.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a boat tour to spot dolphins.
Get your bearings and cover the must-see attractions in Charleston with a guided sightseeing tour to kick off your visit. Book a horse-drawn carriage ride for a unique way to explore, or opt for a walking tour to take in highlights such as Rainbow Row, the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, St. Philip’s Church, and St. Michael’s Church on foot. Both options include guide commentary for insights into the city’s history and lore.
Charleston’s waterfront is lined with parks, beaches, and picturesque harbors. This afternoon, take a break from sightseeing and relax at Waterfront Park, known for Pineapple Fountain and views of the Arthur Ravenel Jr. (or Cooper River) Bridge. Alternatively, explore The Battery and White Point Garden’s panoramic promenade and centenarian oak trees on a bus tour to avoid getting footsore.
Taking a dark history tour by night is a must for your first time in Charleston, considered one of the most haunted cities in the US. Themed walking tours and horse-and-carriage rides take thrill-seekers to the spookiest locations in the city, rife with tales of murder and mayhem, while a haunted pub crawl is ideal for pairing ghoulish tales with signature drinks.
Venture past the city center to discover the historic estates dotting the outlying countryside on a plantation tour. Visit landmarks such as Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, McLeod Plantation Historic Site, Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens, or Drayton Hall to learn about their architecture and history, as well as the day-to-day lives of the owners and enslaved people who once worked there.
Set off across the water to visit Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum or Fort Sumter National Monument by ferry; both top the list of what to do in Charleston for first timers. If you’ve had your fill of history, opt instead for a boat tour to spot dolphins or admire the city’s historic waterfront from the harbor.
Wind down your first time in Charleston with a food tour to experience the city’s vibrant dining and imbibing scenes. Discover top dishes (and the restaurants that make them best) with a local insider, sampling savory and sweet specialties such as benne wafers, barbecue, grits, and other Lowcountry staples at several eateries as you stroll through the historic district.
