Downtown Charleston Travel Guide
Charleston
Visit Downtown Charleston
Popular places to visit
College of Charleston
Named by Travel + Leisure as “America's Most Beautiful College Campus” in 2017, this South Carolina institution is engaging for visitors and beloved by students.
Medical University of South Carolina
Take a campus tour or just explore the area of Medical University of South Carolina during your travels in Charleston. Stroll along the area's beautiful beaches or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.
Charleston City Market
Purchase food, jewelry and handicrafts in the market and learn about local tradition, the Civil War and slavery at its museum.
Port of Charleston
Explore the waterfront in Charleston with a trip to Port of Charleston. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or seek out the local tours.
Waterfront Park
Stroll the city’s waterfront esplanades at sunset, when the afternoon sun begins to dip and the harbor is lit with soft colors.
South Carolina Aquarium
See an array of aquatic creatures, including an albino alligator, in underwater habitats ranging from salt marshes to coastal plains.
Top hotels in Downtown Charleston
The Francis Marion Hotel
Perfect location and such a historical hotel. Great service and room was spacious and clean. Would stay here again no doubt.
Reviewed on 19 Feb 2026
Emeline
Staff was very courteous. However, the rooms are very dark and not exceptionally clean. Our room was not dusted, bed was very low and uncomfortable. Very low water pressure in the bathroom sink. We had to ask for fresh towels. In addition, during our stay, the elevator needed numerous repairs, which ...
Reviewed on 16 Feb 2026
The Ryder Hotel
No hot water for 2 days!
Reviewed on 19 Feb 2026
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Charleston Dwtn - Westedge by IHG
Staff were wonderful. The room was clean, but a little tired and the sink was missing a stopper, which wasted water while shaving.
Reviewed on 20 Feb 2026
HarbourView Inn
Very clean! Staff members were always friendly. We enjoyed the delicious breakfasts, afternoon wine and cheese. Cookies and milk also available in the evening. Close to a beautiful park, many wonderful restaurants and pubs close to the hotel. We recommend Harbour View!!
Reviewed on 18 Feb 2026
The Charleston Place
Great place
Reviewed on 18 Feb 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Downtown Charleston
King Street
If you're spending some time in King Street, Marion Square and Charleston Music Hall are top sights worth seeing.
Radcliffeborough
While Radcliffeborough may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Music Farm and Charleston Music Hall.
Harleston Village
While visiting Harleston Village, you might make a stop by sights like Marion Square and Colonial Lake.
Cannonborough Elliotborough
If you're spending some time in Cannonborough Elliotborough, Upper King Design District and Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum are top sights worth seeing.
Charleston Historic District
Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Charleston City Market to Shops at Charleston Place – discover Charleston Historic District, a destination also famous for its shopping.
Ansonborough
If you're spending some time in Ansonborough, South Carolina Aquarium and International African American Museum are top sights worth seeing.
