Planning a 3-day Charleston itinerary? You’re in the right place. This guide breaks down how to see the best of Charleston without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
Charleston is a Southern gem packed with history, amazing food, and gorgeous coastal views. I’ve spent time walking its cobblestone streets and eating at some of the city’s best spots, so I know what works for a short weekend trip.
In this post, I’ll show you exactly what to do each day. You’ll get restaurant recommendations, must-see historic sites, and tips on getting around. I’ll also share where to stay based on your budget.
Spring and Fall are the best times to visit. The weather is mild, and you won’t be dealing with summer crowds or heat.
How to Get Around Charleston
Getting around Charleston is straightforward once you know your options. Walking works great for downtown.
Most historic sites, shops, and restaurants are within a 15-20 minute walk of each other. The streets are flat and pedestrian-friendly.
Rent a car if you want to visit plantations or beaches. These are 20-30 minutes outside the city center. You can also book guided tours that include transportation.
Other options include rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft, taxis for quick trips, and bike rentals for exploring at your own pace. I found walking to be the easiest way to see downtown.
Save the car for Day 2 when you head to the plantations.
3-Day Charleston Weekend Itinerary
Here’s how to spend three days in Charleston, broken down by activities and meals that make the most of your time.
Day 1: Find Historic Downtown
Start your morning at Miller’s All Day. They’re known for homemade biscuits and solid brunch options. The portions are generous, and the vibe is casual.
Walk off breakfast by browsing King Street. You’ll find boutiques, local shops, and bookstores like Buxton Books and Preservation Society.
It’s a good mix of national brands and Charleston-specific stores.
Head to Rainbow Row in the afternoon. These pastel-colored houses are Charleston’s most photographed spot. The colors pop in natural light, so bring your camera. Walk over to Riley Waterfront Park for sunset.
The park has swings facing the water and plenty of benches. It’s a relaxing way to end your first day.
Cap off the evening with classic Southern food at Poogan’s Porch. Try the she-crab soup and fried green tomatoes. The restaurant is in a Victorian house, which adds to the charm.
Day 2: Plantations & History
Grab breakfast at City Market at Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit. Callie’s is famous for light, fluffy biscuits that live up to the hype. Get there early because lines form fast.
Visit Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, the oldest public garden in the United States. The property survived both the American Revolution and Civil War. You can take a house tour, train tour, and walk through the gardens. Give yourself at least 2-3 hours here.
The grounds are massive and worth the drive.
If you like spooky stories, book an evening ghost tour. You’ll visit haunted sites while learning local legends. Tours run year-round and usually last about 90 minutes.
End the day on the water with a Sunset Harbor Cruise. The cruise takes you past historic forts, barrier islands, and you might spot dolphins. Bring a light jacket since it gets breezy on the boat.
Day 3: Culinary Experiences & Market Exploration
Book the Undiscovered Charleston Food Tour, a guided walking tour with a local chef. You’ll get a 3-course cooking class and wine pairings. It’s hands-on and teaches you about Lowcountry cooking.
The tour lasts about 3 hours and includes plenty of food, so come hungry.
The Charleston City Market is a great spot for handmade crafts and local treats. You’ll find sweetgrass baskets, hot sauce, and other Charleston souvenirs.
Vendors are friendly and happy to explain their craft.
Take a break from walking and book a 1-hour carriage tour with Old South Carriage Co. The horses clip-clop through downtown streets while your guide shares history and stories.
They also offer haunted carriage tours if you want more ghost tales.
Finish your trip with handmade ice cream at Off Track Ice Cream. They use local ingredients and rotate creative flavors. It’s a sweet way to wrap up three days in Charleston.
Where to Stay in Charleston
Charleston has hotels for every budget. Hyatt House Charleston Historic District runs about $200 per night. You get a good location without breaking the bank. Rooms are clean and include kitchenettes.
The Vendue Hotel is another affordable option at $197 per night. They have a rooftop bar with harbor views and rooms filled with local art.
The Ryder Hotel averages $350 per night. It’s trendy with a rooftop bar and pool. The location puts you close to King Street shopping.
Emeline Hotel runs $330 per night. The design is modern with Southern touches. Their restaurant is excellent if you don’t feel like going out.
The Spectator Hotel costs around $550 per night. This boutique hotel offers high-end service and refined rooms. It’s small with only 41 rooms, so you get personalized attention.
Favorite Places to Eat in Charleston
Charleston’s food scene is one of the main reasons to visit. Poogan’s Porch serves classic Southern comfort food in a Victorian house.
The she-crab soup is rich and flavorful. Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit makes the best biscuits in town.
They’re light, buttery, and come with sweet or savory toppings. Brown Dog Deli is perfect for a quick lunch. Their sandwiches are loaded, and the prices won’t shock you.
Husk focuses on Southern ingredients and changes their menu based on what’s in season.
Make a reservation because it fills up. Off Track Creamery crafts small-batch ice cream with flavors like lavender honey and salted caramel. It’s the perfect afternoon treat.
Tips for Visiting Charleston
A few simple tips will make your Charleston trip smoother and help you avoid common tourist mistakes.
- Make reservations ahead of time. Popular restaurants like Husk and Poogan’s Porch fill up fast, especially on weekends. Book tours at least a few days in advance to secure your spot.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes. Charleston’s downtown has cobblestone streets that look charming but can be rough on your feet. Skip the heels and opt for sneakers or flats.
- Visit plantations in the morning. The temperature drops in the early hours, making it more comfortable to walk around the gardens. You’ll also beat the afternoon crowds and have better lighting for photos.
- Check what’s happening during your visit. Charleston hosts food festivals, art walks, and seasonal events throughout the year. A quick online search can help you catch something special.
- Skip renting a car downtown. Use rideshare apps, rent bikes, or just walk. Parking can be tight and expensive in the historic district. Save the car rental for Day 2 when you head to the plantations.
Conclusion
Charleston packs a lot into a small area. You can walk through centuries of history, eat incredible food, and relax by the water all in one weekend.
I loved spending time at the plantations and trying new restaurants. The 3-day Charleston itinerary I shared gives you a solid mix of activities without cramming too much into each day.
Take your time and enjoy the slower pace. That’s what makes Charleston special.
What part of Charleston are you most excited to visit? Drop a comment below and let me know.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do you need in Charleston?
Three days works well for main attractions. You’ll see historic sites, plantations, and great restaurants without rushing. Add a fourth day for beach time.
What is the best month to visit Charleston?
April, May, October, and November have the best weather. Temperatures stay comfortable, and you’ll avoid summer crowds and humidity.
Is Charleston a walkable city?
Yes, downtown is very walkable. Most sites are within 15-20 minutes on foot. You’ll need a car only for plantations and beaches.
What food is Charleston known for?
Charleston is famous for she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and fresh seafood. The biscuits and farm-to-table restaurants are also excellent.
Do you need a car in Charleston?
Not for downtown exploring. Rent a car for plantations and beaches, which are 20-30 minutes away. You can also book tours with transportation.