Itineraries for Your Trip to Charleston
3 Days in Charleston for First Timers
After living in Europe for decades, one US city that I keep coming back to is Charleston, with its picture-perfect historic district of cobblestone streets, antebellum mansions, and landmark churches. This South Carolina city bustles with horse-drawn carriage rides, ferries to Fort Sumter, and walkers strolling The Battery and Waterfront Park along the shore—giving the center a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere.
I prefer to spend a full three days in Charleston to soak up its unique blend of Southern hospitality and Old World architecture, plus venture out to unwind at Folly Beach and shop for local treasures at Charleston City Market. If you’re planning a long weekend stay, follow my tips for the best things to do in Charleston for first timers.
The heat and humidity in Charleston are legendary, so wear a hat and light clothing in the summer.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a ghost tour by night.
Focus on the must-see attractions in Charleston on your first day, starting with a guided sightseeing tour of the historic district by horse-drawn carriage or on foot. Gain a better understanding of the city’s culture and lore as you admire Rainbow Row, St. Philip’s Church, the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, and other highlights.
In the afternoon, hop on a ferry across the harbor to visit the Fort Sumter National Monument or Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum. Fort Sumter is one of the premier attractions for Civil War history buffs, while the museum’s massive aircraft carrier makes it an A-list stop during your first time in Charleston.
Head outside the city this morning on a plantation tour to visit such historic estates as Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, McLeod Plantation Historic Site, Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens, or Drayton Hall. Learn about the daily lives of formerly enslaved people who contributed to this important part of Charleston’s economy and culture.
After sunset, join a ghost tour of Charleston, considered one of the most haunted cities in the US. Learn about chilling crimes and spooky mysteries on a themed walking tour or horse-and-carriage ride, or join a dark history pub crawl to break up your ghoulish walk with drinks.
After two solid days of sightseeing, take a break this morning with a scenic walk along the coastline. Waterfront Park plus The Battery and White Point Garden are two of the city’s most picturesque parks and top the list of what to do in Charleston for first-time visitors. Alternatively, set off on a boat tour for a dolphin-spotting expedition in the city’s harbor.
Cap off your Charleston visit with a food tour to sample such Lowcountry specialties as benne wafers, grits, barbecue, and more. Take advantage of your culinary guide’s insider intel and discover the best eateries in the historic district in just a few hours.
