Planning Your Charleston Vacation: The Holy City

Q: What Is the Best Month To Visit Charleston?

The best time to visit Charleston is usually in June. The weather is warm, but the humidity isn’t stifling in early summer. The summer season is when most of the city's favorite attractions are open. Plan for a late spring or winter vacation if you want to visit when there are smaller crowds. Fall still sees big crowds because it’s Charleston’s festival season.

Q: What’s the Food Scene Like in Charleston?

The food in Charleston is some of the best anywhere in the United States. From traditional southern fare to the most modern fusion cuisines, there’s something for every diner. Some of the best places to eat in Charleston include: A mix of French, Italian and Spanish cuisine at The Obstinate Daughter Seasonal seafood at The Ordinary

Q: What’s the Best Way To See Charleston?

The best way to see Charleston is by booking lodging in the area you want to spend most of your time in. The city is fairly walkable, especially in the older parts, and public transportation makes it easy to get around. You can also rent a car or use a rideshare app to head across the city or go to the beach.

Take a trip to one of South Carolina’s most beautiful cities

Courtesy of Charleston Convention & Visitors Bureau

Colonial Heritage and Coastal Delights: What To Do in Charleston

Charleston Travel Guide

Charleston is one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in the United States. Whether you love eating fresh seafood or want to experience the beauty of the city’s large number of churches, a Charleston vacation will be a good time. The best things to do in Charleston are just a few clicks away.

If you want to make your trip more fun and more affordable, you should become a AAA member. When you’re a member, you get exclusive benefits that can save you money on lodging and rental cars, and you’ll get expert advice from AAA’s travel agents. Sign up today to start saving!

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GUIDEDSouthern Charm Holiday7 Days, Guided, 9 Meals

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General29 Best Things To Do in Charleston, SC11/01/2023 : Planning an upcoming trip to the Holy City? From visiting Rainbow Row to taking a ghost tour, here’s our list of the top things to do in Charleston, SC.

ARTICLE10 Best Bars in Charleston, SC for a Night Out AAA Travel Editor, WA06/11/2024 : Explore Charleston's nightlife with our guide to the top 10 bars, perfect for a fun and memorable evening.

ARTICLE9 Best Parks in Charleston, SCAAA Travel Editor, WA06/10/2024 : Explore the 9 best parks in Charleston, offering scenic views, lush greenery, perfect picnic spots, and plenty of recreational activities for all ages.

ARTICLEDate Ideas and Romantic Spots in Charleston, SCAAA Travel Editor, CW06/10/2024 : Explore Charleston's top romantic spots and unique date ideas, perfect for creating unforgettable memories with your special someone.

ARTICLE10 Best Hotels in Charleston, SC for any Type of GetawayAAA Travel Editor, WA06/11/2024 : Find your ideal stay with our guide to the 10 best hotels in Charleston, SC, catering to all types of travelers and preferences.

EDITOR PICKCharleston, Off the Beaten PathAAA Travel Editor, Sherry Mims04/06/2023 : Planning a Charleston, S.C., vacation? Here's what to do if you want to incorporate fun things to see along with some tips for going off the beaten path in Charleston.

ARTICLE20 Fun Things to do in Charleston, SC with KidsAAA Travel Editor, WA06/05/2024 : Learn about the top things to do in Charleston with kids, offering a mix of entertainment, education, and outdoor fun for the whole family.

EDITOR PICKFood and Family Fun in Charleston's DowntownAAA Travel Editor, Sherry Mims04/05/2023 : Are you eating out in Charleston? Here are some nearby attractions and convenient food places to try in historic Charleston.

ARTICLE20 Best Restaurants In Charleston To Fuel Your Low Country Adventure AAA Travel Editor, SMT06/24/2024 : When looking for the best restaurants in Charleston to try, there are many choices, from seafood shacks to barbeque joints. Here are a few to get you started.

ARTICLE6 of the Best Beaches in CharlestonAAA Travel Editor, CW06/11/2024 : Experience the beauty of Charleston's coastline with our selection of the 6 best beaches, perfect for a day of sun and surf.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Have more questions about visiting Charleson, South Carolina? The AAA travel experts have some answers for you!

What Is the Best Month To Visit Charleston?

How Many Days Do I Need in Charleston?

Three to five days is usually enough time to experience what Charleston offers. But, if you have a few extra days, you visit some spots favored by locals, as well as some off-the-beaten-path attractions that you’ll be happy you saw. Here are some of the best to do in Charleston:

Soak up the sun and surf at Isle of Palms.
Learn about the history of the area at the Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site.
Marvel at the beautiful, nearly 70-foot-tall Angel Oak Tree.
Stroll through the College of Charleston campus.

What Is Charleston Most Known for?

Charleston is one of the oldest cities in the United States, which means it’s full of historically important sites, like Fort Sumter. One of the most popular Charleston activities is visiting some of the many churches in the city. The large number of houses of worship is part of what inspired Charleston's nickname, the Holy City. There are also museums, great nightlife and lots of family-friendly things to do.

What’s the Food Scene Like in Charleston?

Where Should I Stay in Charleston?

Your itinerary should help you decide where to stay in Charleston. The Historic District has some of the best Charleston hotels for many first-time visitors. It can be a little expensive. However, the accommodations are nice, and the area is full of attractions, shopping and dining. The oceanfront hotels in Charleston offer stunning views and great amenities, as do many of the smaller boutique hotels in the area.

What’s the Best Way To See Charleston?

What Are Some Must-See Attractions in Charleston?

Whatever you love to do on vacation, you can do it in the Holy City. The list of Charleston attractions is long and includes some of South Carolina’s best beaches, shopping and sightseeing. Even if you’re looking for free things to do in Charleston, you will have plenty of options. Here are a few must-see attractions to visit in Charleston:

Relax at one of the city’s beautiful parks.
Stroll around and shop at the historic Charleston City Market.
See the city’s sites on a bus tour.
Get out on the water for fishing or sightseeing.
Take a nighttime ghost tour.

Is Charleston Worth Visiting?

Charleston is a city that’s definitely worth visiting. Whether you like visiting historical sites or eating fresh seafood (or both), you’ll have a great time in the Holy City. The traditional architecture and world-class food make the city perfect for a romantic weekend away. If you’re visiting Charleston with the family, visit the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry or get a photo at Waterfront Park. Even if you’re only in town for a day or two, there are lots of budget-friendly things to do.

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Planning Your Charleston Vacation: The Holy City

Colonial Heritage and Coastal Delights: What To Do in Charleston

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