All Charleston Tours &amp; Excursions in 2026

Charleston Harbor Tour & Dolphin Watch Cruise

Roll up your sleeves and get to grips with Lowcountry and Southern dishes in this small-group cooking class in Charleston. Head to the city's French Quarter for this hands-on experience that explores dishes that define the region's culinary identity. From buttermilk biscuits to pimento cheese and the pecan-rich Huguenot torte, a culinary expert guides you through the techniques behind every recipe.

Hands-on Cooking Class in Charleston

See a new side of Charleston when you set off after dark—and learn all about the spooky side of the city’s history, thanks to your guide's stories—on this ghost tour. See major historical landmarks, as well as graveyards, alleyways, hotels, bars, and other lesser-known, supposedly haunted corners. As you go, hear creepy tales about ghostly brides, pirates, unexplained murders, and more.

Special Offer

Real Hauntings of Charleston! (Small Group Ghost Tour)

Embark on a horse-drawn carriage tour through the heart of historic Charleston, one of the most charming cities in the US. Ride along cobblestone streets and take in the antebellum architecture, historic landmarks, and lush gardens. Your knowledgeable guide shares fascinating stories about Charleston’s rich history and Southern culture. This is a charming introduction to this part of Charleston.

Charleston Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour: Explore Historic Charleston

1 hourFree Cancellation

Discover the spookier side of Charleston’s history on this haunted tour of the Old City Jail. With an expert guide, learn about some of Charleston’s most notorious criminals, pirates and despicable characters like Lavinia and John Fisher, 19th-century hoteliers who allegedly poisoned their guests. Visit eerie spaces such as prisoner cells, hallways and locations where criminals died. Brace yourself for a possible ghostly apparition!

Charleston Haunted Jail Night-Time Walking Tour with Admission to Old City Jail

45 minutesFree Cancellation

Take in views of some of Charleston’s top historic sights from a unique perspective with this panoramic dinner cruise through Charleston Harbor. Enjoy a four-course dinner and a full-service bar available for purchase as you cruise past Fort Sumter, the Battery, and Ravenel Bridge. Capture spectacular harbor views, watch the sunset (for summer cruises), and relax to live musical entertainment on board.

Charleston Harbor Luxury Dinner Cruise with Live Music

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

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.

Charleston Festival of Lights with Small Group Transportation

3 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Charleston's Tastes Through Time -Food, History & Culture Tour

2 to 3 hoursFree Cancellation

See the highlights of Charleston in comfort on this guided tour on a climate-controlled minibus. Learn more from your guide’s narration as you ride past must-see Charleston sights such as the Battery, the Citadel, Old City Market, and Hampton Park. Also enjoy spectacular views of Fort Sumter, Castle Pinckney, and the Sullivan Island Lighthouse from a distance. The express tour provides an ideal overview for first-time visitors to Charleston.

Charleston See-It-All City Bus Tour with Adventure Sightseeing

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.

Boone Hall Plantation Admission & Tour with Transportation from Charleston

4 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Without a guided walking tour, you might miss some of the eclectic history and hidden nooks and crannies around Charleston that make this city such a gem. This walking tour takes you through the French Quarter and South of Broad neighborhoods to top sights such as the Rainbow Row, the Old Slave Mart Museum, and the Old Exchange, all while your guide shares stories from Charleston history and lore.

Highlights of Charleston Guided Walking Tour

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.

Charleston Eco Boat Cruise with stop at Morris Island Lighthouse

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Charleston History Tour - Small Groups Only - History & Alleyways

Charleston's haunted history comes alive on the Ghosts and Gravestones Night Tour. With exclusive access to Bethany Cemetery, guests are guided by a costumed Ghost Host who shares chilling tales of the city’s darker past. The tour allows for a unique nighttime exploration, complete with lanterns to light the way through the cemetery's eerie grounds. As you ride through the haunted streets, the stories deepen, revealing the ghostly legends that linger in Charleston's shadows. This 90-minute experience is designed for those seeking a thrilling adventure, perfect for an adult audience.

Ghosts and Gravestones Charleston Night Tour

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.

Historic Charleston Walking Tour: Rainbow Row, Churches, and More

Undiscovered Charleston: Half Day Food, Wine & History Tour with Cooking Class

4 hoursFree Cancellation

2-Hour Guided Kayak Eco Tour in Charleston

Enjoy a time-saving way to explore one of the country’s most historic cities on this sightseeing bus tour of Charleston, South Carolina. Visit Rainbow Row, the longest stretch of Georgian row houses in the United States; the Old Exchange Building; White Point Garden, in the heart of the city's historic district; and more. You can also upgrade to include admission to the Joseph Manigault House or the Charleston Museum.

Gray Line Charleston City Sightseeing Bus Tour

The Death and Depravity Ghost Tour in Charleston

With more than 300 years of history as an established city, Charleston has its fair share of frightening ghost stories. Wander around these historical city streets with a guide and uncover the gruesome chapters of Charleston’s history. As you move from pub to pub, you’ll hear tales of pirates, bootleggers, brothels, and more. Learn about the history and haunts of the city from the days of the piracy to the nights of Prohibition.

Charleston Haunted Pub Crawl

Charleston historical walking tour with a Professor of History at The Citadel

3 hoursFree Cancellation

Watch the sun set above Charleston, South Carolina with a 2-hour sunset harbor cruise aboard a 45-foot motorized catamaran. Find a comfortable seat on deck, spot the landmarks of downtown Charleston and the waterfront, and watch for the dolphins and sea birds that thrive along the South Carolina shoreline. Enjoy a relaxing break from the city while spending a romantic evening on the water.

Charleston Harbor Sunset Cruise

Charleston Haunted Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Charleston's Pleasing Terrors Night-Time Walking Ghost Tour

Fort Sumter Access and Self-Guided Tour with Roundtrip Ferry

1 2 3

...

Must-Dos in Charleston

1 / 2

What are people saying about Charleston

Brian_M, Oct 2026

Fort Sumpter tour in Charleston

30 Minute boat ride each way was scenic and smooth. History facts shared on the way out were excellent. We were on the last trip of the day so we were able to be a part of the flag lowering, very cool. Rangers shared a ton of interesting info about the fort and charleston. Look for the finger prints in the bricks...it was humbling for me.

Charleston’s Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour

Tony_S, Oct 2026

Emily, the tour guide...

Emily, the tour guide (and her horse Winston) was a great guide. She was very friendly, informative and funny. It was easy to tell she really enjoys her job, and her love of the city shows. I learned a few things I never knew about the city. When I get a chance to return to Charleston, I will be booking another tour with Old South Carriage company!

Real Hauntings of Charleston! (Small Group Ghost Tour)

Molly_F, Oct 2026

10/10 Experience

This tour was so much fun! Brandon is a captivating storyteller. It was the perfect blend of spooky ghost stories and interesting historical facts about the city. He made everyone on the tour feel welcome and emphasized the importance of remaining respectful while sharing the stories of real people. I like how the groups are kept small so it doesn’t feel too overwhelming or crowded. 90 minutes was also the perfect amount of time for a tour like this one. I highly recommend booking with Brandon!!

Hidden Alleyways and Historic Sites Small-Group Walking Tour

Gregory_D, Oct 2026

True history not taught in school.

You will learn about the history of many charming homes and other buildings. If you are lucky enough to get Evans, you will get some botany education ( many of the plants you see growing everywhere in Charleston are not native to the area). Most notable to me was the unadulterated history of Robert Smalls and other lessor figures in Charleston/S.C. history. History directly told with no sugar coating and might make the unenlightened a little sqeemish. So keep an open mind. Loved it 6 out out of 5 stars!!!

Charleston French Quarter or Brunch Food Tour with 7+ Tastings

Richard_A, Oct 2026

Great, cultural and historical background of the foods

This tour focuses on the history and cultural relationship to foods typical of Charleston and the south. It is much more than just tasting shrimp and grits, etc. Our guide Nathan is absolutely fantastic at giving the history of the evolution of the foods. The tastings are all very good, but don’t expect you’ll be sitting at magnolias. There were, however, lots of tastings.

Old Town Trolley Charleston Sightseeing Tour

Philip_I, Oct 2026

Mike did a wonderful tour...

Mike did a wonderful tour of Old Town Charleston, including talks on some of the older buildings and their owners, important parts of Charleston history, and other interesting items. It was quite amazing, very knowledgeable, all from memory, answering our questions, and so on. Thanks!

Historic Charleston Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour

Jennifer_S, Oct 2026

Charming, entertaining...

Charming, entertaining and informative. I booked online an hour before the tour and had such an enjoyable time. This is a wonderful way to get a feel for the history of the city and so much more. Our guide, Al, was knowledgable, entertaining and so very nice. His delivery was unrushed and didn’t feel canned. I wish I had time to do the tour over again.

Boone Hall Plantation All-Access Admission Ticket

Karen_P, Oct 2026

Boone Hall Historic Visit

A must see during your travels. I am planning another trip so that I can bring my daughter. If you enjoy guided tours or just touring spaces on your own, this is the place for you. I would recommend this historic site to all history buffs. I enjoyed this experience and look forward to returning. It was very enjoyable and enlightening.

Charleston Harbor Live Narrated History Day or Sunset Boat Cruise

Jay_E, Oct 2026

John,LaTanya& Tarhonda 1st boat ride together

The guy who was taken our picture once he was done he came around to me First I said ok before I can say I would like to pay for them he done snatch the picture of my hand. He’s real rude he come off as a racist. Real short and nasty for no reason. And when I confronted him, that’s when he tried to apologize. But other than that experience, I had was really great.

Afternoon Schooner Sightseeing Dolphin Cruise on Charleston Harbor

Kristen_S, Oct 2026

Fun and informative trip

This was a great excursion. While the trip is not a narrated trip, the captain and crew were available to explain what they were doing and any other questions you might have. We sailed for about 90 minutes, saw dolphins and enjoyed an afternoon sailing. It's well worth the cost of the trip!

Haunted Evening Horse and Carriage Tour of Charleston

Marnie_E, Sept 2026

BEN is the best horse!

Great time with Monty and Ben. Good with the story telling and history of the city. ( Charming Charleston). Lucky we were on Ben's last year of tour. Loved the experience at night in the horse carriage. If you get a chance while on vacation, book this tour!! Thank you, Monty!