Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (2024)

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October 11, 2023

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (1)

Welcome to Charleston, South Carolina! Known for its charm, history, and Southern hospitality, it's one of the top destinations for visitors. Discover this vibrant place with tours of Charleston! Enjoy a quintessential carriage tour, hop on a bus to tour the city, taste some of Charleston’s iconic flavors, take a boat cruise, discover the supernatural side with a ghost tour, or step back in time on a plantation. There's a tour bound to satisfy every kind of traveler's preference.

Find a selection of the best Charleston Tours in this exciting and historic city.

Choose a tour type:

  • Historic Charleston SC Tours
  • Ghost Tours Charleston SC
  • Cruise/Boat Tours
  • Bus Tours
  • Food Tours
  • Plantation Tours

Historic Charleston SC Tours

Unveil the magic of Charleston's bygone era with a captivating historical tour. Pay homage to the renowned Civil War monument, delve into the untold narratives of Black History, or admire the architecture. You can tour the holy city on foot or enjoy it on a popular horse-drawn carriage tour! Choose the historic tour that is best for you!

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (2)

Historic Charleston Carriage Tour

Old South Carriage Co.

5 / 5

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (3)

(TripAdvisor · 4,553 Reviews)

Discover the fascinating history of Charleston in style with our top-rated tour! Join our friendly and knowledgeable guide and lovable horse for an exquisite horse-drawn carriage tour. We'll take you on an unforgettable 1-hour journey through the city's captivating past.

Sit back and relax as you soak up the sights and sounds of historic downtown Charleston - it's the ultimate way to experience the city's charm and character! Check Carriage Tour Availability

Pricing

  • $50 / Adult (ages 12+)
  • $40 / Child (ages 4-11)
  • $0 / Infants (ages 0-3)

Duration & Times

  • 1 hour
  • Available daily 9 am - 5 pm

Other Info

  • Upgrade your tour to a private row, private carriage, or Vis à Vis Carriage if you wish.

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (4)

Fort Sumter Tour

Fort Sumter Tours

4.5 / 5

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (5)

(TripAdvisor · 751 Reviews)

Hear the echoes of history at the world-renowned Fort Sumter, perched atop an island in Charleston Harbor. On April 12, 1861, the first shots of the Civil War rang out when Confederate troops fired on Fort Sumter. You'll board a tour boat and take a narrated 30-minute cruise to the historic fort; then, you will be greeted by a National Park Service ranger, who will provide an introduction and answer questions. You’ll have an hour to explore the fort and museum store on your own.

Pricing

  • $35.00/Adult
  • $31.00/Senior/Active Military
  • $21.00/Children (4-11)
  • Free - Children 3 and under

Duration & Times

  • 1-hour tour, 30 min cruise
  • Daily departures from Downtown Charleston and Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant at 10:30 am and 1 pm

Other Info

  • Fort Sumter is only accessible by boat

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (6)

Sunday Morning Church Walking Tour

Snap Picture Perfect Tours

5 / 5

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (7)

(TripAdvisor)

It's named the Holy City for a reason! Spend a Sunday morning with us and visit the oldest churches of the South on a 15-stop guided Church Walking Tour. Discover these historical landmarks and the wartime heroes buried in the adjacent cemeteries. If the timing is right, visit the inside of these magnificent structures.

Pricing

  • $20 per person

Duration & Times

  • 2 hours
  • Sundays, 9:30 am

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (8)

Lost Stories of Black Charleston Walking Tour

Tour Charleston

5 / 5

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (9)

(TripAdvisor · 155 Reviews)

Join Professor Damon Fordham on an incredible journey through the Lost Stories of Black Charleston! This walking tour is a history lesson and a captivating adventure by Professor Fordham's talents as a storyteller, educator, published author, and historian. Uncover the secrets of Charleston's fascinating and complex past through the expert knowledge of one of its greatest scholars.

Pricing

  • $34/Adults, Ages 13+
  • $25/Students All ages. Must bring student ID.
  • $22/Children, 12 years & under
  • $30/Seniors 65 years +
  • $30/Military /AAA members must provide ID.

Duration & Times

  • 2 hours
  • Daily 3:30 pm weekdays, 10 am weekends

Ghost Tours Charleston SC

Lurking in the shadows of its centuries-old buildings and historic streets are whispers of restless spirits and ghostly apparitions. It's one of the most haunted cities in America, and if you are looking for thrilling and chilling stories, experience a Charleston ghost tour. Choose a haunted carriage tour, a pirates and ghosts boat cruise, or a walking ghost tour.

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (10)

Haunted Carriage Ride

Old South Carriage Co..

4.5 / 5

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (11)

(TripAdvisor · 1,758 Reviews)

Charleston's Only Haunted Carriage Tour

Discover the dark side of Charleston on a Haunted Carriage Ride! Step into a world of spine-tingling stories as you embark on Charleston's most thrilling twilight tour. Ride through the most haunted streets of America's most haunted city and be amazed by the fascinating tales of ghosts, pirates, and patriots that are hidden in every corner of Charleston. Check Haunted Carriage Tour Availability

Pricing

  • $50 / Adult (ages 12+)
  • $40 / Child(ages 4-11)
  • $0 / Infant(ages 0-3)

Duration & Times

  • 40 minutes
  • Available most nights, starting early evening

Other Info

  • Private and public tours available
  • Private row and carriage upgrades available

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (12)

Charleston Ghost And Dungeon Tour

Bulldog Tours

4 / 5

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (13)

(TripAdvisor · 245 Reviews)

Embark on an eerie Ghost and Dungeon walking tour through Charleston's haunted Historic District. Wander through the dimly-lit streets, hidden alleyways, and sacred churches of the Holy City as you hear the unsettling tales of ghostly apparitions, haunted dwellings, and Lowcountry legends. Explore the infamous Provost Dungeon—a cavernous chamber that once held prisoners accused of acts of treason or sedition. Enjoy this exclusive access only on a Bulldog Tour.

Pricing

  • Starting at $37/Adults
  • Starting at $27/Child (4-12)
  • Free - Ages 3 and under

Duration & Times

  • 1.5 hours
  • 7pm & 9pm

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (14)

Ghost and Pirate Tour Cruise

Sandlapper Water Tours

4.5 / 5

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (15)

(TripAdvisor · 163 Reviews)

Ride in a comfortable 45ft catamaran as you navigate through Charleston's eerie waterways and hear its chilling stories of naval battles and pirate attacks. This Ghost and Pirate Cruise of Charleston will keep you on the edge of your seat!

Pricing

  • $40 Adults Ages 13+
  • $30 Children 4-12 years

Duration & Times

  • 1.5 hours
  • 7:45 pm on select dates, check availability

Cruise & Boat Tours

Another amazing type of Charleston tour is by boat! These tours cater to different preferences and budgets, offering dinner cruises, speed boat tours in the harbor, or boat trips to historic locations. So get on a boat, enjoy the refreshing breeze in your hair, and marvel at Charleston's picturesque views and historical sights from the water.

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (16)

Charleston Harbor Tour By Speedboat

Speedboat Adventures

5 / 5

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (17)

(TripAdvisor · 201 Reviews)

Get ready to take the helm of your very own speed boat and experience the thrill of a fully narrated, 13-mile Charleston Harbor Tour. On this adventure, you'll be treated to awe-inspiring views of iconic landmarks and you'll also get to soak up the city's stunning skyline from a truly unique vantage point.

Pricing

  • $150.00 Single Passenger Boat
  • $178.90 Double Passenger Boat
  • $224.70 Triple Passenger Boat

Duration & Times

  • 2 hours
  • Every day at 9 am, 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm

Other Info

  • Tour route subject to change depending on weather and water conditions.

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (18)

Morris Island Lighthouse Tour by Boat

Charleston Outdoor Adventures

5 / 5

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (19)

(TripAdvisor · 1,576 Reviews)

Board this Carolina Skiff Bay Boat and embark on a cruise through breathtaking tidal creeks, marshes, and the untouched Morris Island. Spot dolphins and immerse yourself in the beauty of coastal wildlife while admiring views of the historic Morris Island Lighthouse. This eco-tour is the perfect way to learn about the ecology of the area while experiencing it firsthand. Don't miss out on this unforgettable journey!

Pricing

  • $52/Adult (13 and older)
  • $32/Children (3-12 years)
  • $10 Infant (under 3)

Duration & Times

  • 2.5 hours
  • Tour times are based on the tides. There is at least one tour every day and sometimes that falls during sunset.

Bus Tours

Enjoy a Charleston tour by bus! You'll have the opportunity to see and learn about the city while comfortably seated in an air-conditioned vehicle with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. There's a bus tour to suit every taste and budget.

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (20)

Charleston City Sightseeing Bus Tour

Gray Line of Charleston

4 / 5

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (21)

(TripAdvisor · 273 Reviews)

Step back in time and discover the captivating living history of Charleston on a Sightseeing Bus Tour with a licensed tour guide. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of this vibrant city as you step out of the air-conditioned minibus. From the charming Old Market area to the awe-inspiring historic homes and churches, this journey is sure to leave you enchanted.

Pricing

  • $31/Adult (ages 12-61)
  • $29/Senior (ages 62+)
  • $21/Child (ages 4-11)
  • Free/Infant Ages 3 & Under - Free Must Book 1 Adult or Senior First

Duration & Times

  • 90 Minutes
  • Daily tours begin at 10:00 a.m.

Other Info

  • Please note the City of Charleston does not allow hop-on-hop-off services.

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (22)

Charleston Sightseeing Bus Tour plus Local Museum

Gray Line of Charleston

5 / 5

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (23)

(TripAdvisor)

Experience the fascinating history of Charleston come alive on a captivating Sightseeing Bus Tour plus Charleston Museum Tour! Immerse yourself in the culture and charm of this historic city as you journey through time visiting the historic homes, Charleston Harbor, and more.

Pricing

  • $39/Adult (Ages 12+)
  • $26/Child (Ages 4-11)
  • Free/Infant (Ages 3 & Under Must Book 1 Adult First)

Duration & Times

  • 90 minutes
  • Daily tours begin at 9:30 a.m

Other Info

  • Please note the City of Charleston does not allow hop-on-hop-off services.

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (24)

Charleston Sightseeing Bus Tour

Pineapple Tour Group

5 / 5

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (25)

(TripAdvisor · 519 Reviews)

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Charleston on a bus tour that will whisk you away to all the must-see sights. This tour includes visits to the picturesque Battery, the colorful Rainbow Row, and the iconic White Point Gardens. You'll travel in style and comfort in a state-of-the-art, air-conditioned van. Your guide will share fascinating facts and hidden gems that you'd likely miss on your own.

Pricing

  • $37.50/Adults (Ages 13+)
  • $35.50/Children (Ages 12 & under)
  • $35.50/Seniors (65 and up) / Veterans with valid ID at check-in

Duration & Times

  • 90 Minutes
  • Daily 10:15 am - 3:15 pm

Food Tours

Exploring the city on a food tour is an ideal way to experience history through the fusion of southern and global cuisine. Sample delicacies from the French Quarter, go for a downtown tour of modern and chic dishes, spend an afternoon devouring breakfast food on a brunch tour, or take a Charleston tour that includes a cooking class with a popular chef. Charleston is undoubtedly a foodie's haven. Find a tour that is right for you.

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (26)

Food Tour of Charleston's French Quarter

Secret Food Tours Charleston

4.95 / 5

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (27)

(TripAdvisor)

Join one of the most highly coveted Secret Food Tours in North America and discover the mouth-watering delights of Charleston's French Quarter.

The tour takes you on a journey to the best food that the city's picturesque and historic streets can offer. Along the way, experienced guides will passionately share the fascinating stories behind every delicious dish. Try authentic local dishes at five-star rated eateries and enjoy a surprise Secret Dish selected by your expert guides.

Pricing

  • $99/person

Duration & Times

  • 3-3.5 hours

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (28)

Downtown Charleston Food Tour

Charleston Culinary Tours

4.5 / 5

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (29)

(TripAdvisor · 457 Reviews)

Get ready to experience the mouth-watering delights of Charleston's Downtown Food Tour! This walking food tour includes the Historic French Quarter and City Market and will leave you craving more! Step back in time as you stroll down some of the oldest and most historic streets in America while indulging in the city's tastiest bites and sips. Discover hidden gems and iconic landmarks that blend history and gastronomy in the best possible way.

Pricing

  • $85/Per person
  • $840/Small Private Tour up to 6 guests
  • $1140/Large Private Tour up to 12 guests

Duration & Times

  • 2.5 hours

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (30)

Charleston Brunch and Broad Food Tour

Secret Food Tours Charleston

4.92 / 5

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (31)

(TripAdvisor · 1,758 Reviews)

Journey down one of the "Great Streets" of America, Broad Street, on this Brunch and Broad Food Tour. This historic street boasts some of the best architecture in the city, all thanks to the gallant preservation efforts of its inhabitants.

But it's not just the beautiful buildings that make this street so special -it's the delicious brunch spots that will help tell Charleston's interesting stories.

Pricing

  • $79/person

Duration & Times

  • 3-3.5 hours

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (32)

Half Day Charleston Food, Wine & History Tour and Cooking Class

Undiscovered Charleston

5 / 5

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (33)

(TripAdvisor · 600 Reviews)

Tour Charleston through history with celebrated chef Forrest Parker. This half-day Food, Wine & History Tour comes with a live cooking demonstration at a local bistro and a wine-pairing lunch. Explore Charleston's rich culinary influences and learn how to cook Lowcountry classics from the chef himself.

Pricing

  • From $200/person + Fees and Gratuity

Duration & Times

  • 4 hours
  • 9 am – 1 pm every day except Tuesday & Wednesday

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (34)

Wine, Tea, and A Tree Tour

Snap! Picture Perfect Tours

5 / 5

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (35)

(TripAdvisor · 17 Reviews)

It's the tour of Charleston that combines the finest sips and scenic views. This Wadmalaw and Johns Island Tour is a wine-tasting, tea-sipping, and tree-hugging tour! Visit Angel Oak Park where you'll see the majestic 500-year-old oak tree on Johns Island. Then, make your way by trolley ride to the tea-growing fields at Charleston Tea Garden on Wadmalaw Island. Top off the day with a wine tasting on the island's Deep Water Vineyard.

Pricing

  • $135/Adult (Ages 21+)
  • $40/ Youth (Under 21)

Duration & Times

  • 5 hours
  • 10:30 am or 12:30 pm

Plantation Tours

Amongst the city's historical treasures are its plantations, which offer a chance to step back in time and learn about the lives of those who worked and lived on these estates. A Charleston tour to a plantation allows you to not only witness the grandeur of the land's beautiful scenery but also to learn about its complicated past. Choose from these popular plantation tours!

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (36)

Magnolia Plantation Tour

Adventure Sightseeing Tours

4.5 / 5

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (37)

(TripAdvisor · 266 Reviews)

Take a journey through time and beauty as you embark on a guided tour of the breathtaking Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, one of America's first tourist attractions and first public gardens. This beautiful plantation dates back to 1676 and has been open to the public since 1870. This tour includes transportation to and from the plantation.

Pricing

  • $74/Adult (Ages 12+)
  • $43/Child (Ages 4-11)

Duration & Times

  • 4.5 hours
  • 10:30 am - 3 pm

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (38)

Boone Hall Plantation All-Access Admission Ticket

Boone Hall Farms

4.5 / 5

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (39)

(TripAdvisor · 637 Reviews)

Are you ready to step back in time and immerse yourself in the fascinating history of Boone Hall Plantation? With its founding dating back to 1681, this estate has witnessed centuries of captivating stories. Experience it with an all-access admission ticket and an unforgettable walk through the world-famous Avenue of Oaks.

Pricing

  • $28/Adult
  • $25/Seniors-Military-AAA
  • $12/Children (6-12)
  • Free/Children 5 and under admitted free with adult

Duration & Times

  • Duration: 2–4 hours
  • Check availability for tour times

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (40)

Middleton Place Tour with Lunch

Pineapple Tour Group

5 / 5

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (41)

(TripAdvisor · 176 Reviews)

Step back in time and experience the rich history of America's oldest landscaped gardens at the Middleton Place Plantation including the stableyards, Eliza's House - a freedman's dwelling, and the house museum. Your tour includes a mouth-watering Low Country meal that will have you savoring every bite.

Pricing

  • $99 per person

Duration & Times

  • 4.45 hours
  • 9:30 am to 2 pm or 12:45 pm to 4:45 pm

Charleston Tours: The 21 Best Tours To Experience The City (2024)

FAQs

What are the best tours in Charleston, South Carolina? ›

  1. Charleston's Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour. ...
  2. Magnolia Plantation Admission & Tour with Transportation from Charleston. ...
  3. Real Hauntings of Charleston! ...
  4. Fort Sumter Admission and Self-Guided Tour with Roundtrip Ferry. ...
  5. 90-Minute Charleston City Sightseeing Bus Tour.

How long do you need to explore Charleston? ›

There's so much to do in the city that spending 3 days is recommended to get the full Charleston experience. From historic sites to restaurants and more, we've got you covered so you can start planning the best Charleston vacation.

Where does Charleston rank in tourists? ›

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – From its ever-growing list of popular restaurants to beautiful views and friendly faces, historic charm, and warm sunshine – Charleston has again been ranked the #1 city in the United States by Travel + Leisure readers for 2023.

How long is the Harbor Tour in Charleston? ›

During the scenic and relaxing 90-minute tour, you will see over 75 landmarks and points of interest including stunning up close views of Fort Sumter!

What is the best month to visit Charleston SC? ›

Best Times to Visit Charleston for Good Weather

Mild weather makes it a great time to experience Charleston's architecture, culinary scene, and natural beauty. Late September until early December is also a popular time to visit Charleston, as daily temperatures can continue to reach the high 70s.

What is the most beautiful street in Charleston? ›

PHOTOS: The 8 most beautiful streets to explore in Charleston,...
  • Broad Street. Broad Street features Gallery Row, filled with many art galleries, for art lovers and onlookers alike. ...
  • Queen Street. ...
  • Tradd Street. ...
  • East Battery Street. ...
  • Long Point Road. ...
  • Philadelphia Alley. ...
  • Concord Street — Waterfront Park.
Feb 17, 2017

What is the cheapest time of year to visit Charleston SC? ›

Enjoy Lower Rates

Insiders know the winter months in Charleston are the most affordable time to visit. The cost of accommodations and lodging is at the lowest rate, so you can save on your getaway. You're also likely to save money on dining out, activities, and area attractions.

Is Charleston a walkable city? ›

Downtown Charleston, South Carolina, is compact and pedestrian-friendly. You won't need a car if you're planning a short weekend trip and aren't leaving the core, which is packed with restaurants, shops and historic sites.

Is there a hop on hop off in Charleston SC? ›

Please note: The city of Charleston does not allow hop-on, hop-off bus tours, so the See it All City Bus Tour is your best way to enjoy Charleston! There is no better way to sightsee in the historic and captivating Holy City than on Adventure Sightseeing's Charleston bus tours.

What is the number one tourist destination in South Carolina? ›

Travelers love visiting one South Carolina city — and now, it ranks as one of the best vacation destinations in the world. Charleston earned a spot on the worldwide list and also was named the No.

What is the best walkable area of Charleston? ›

Where to Walk in Charleston? 8 Best Places
  • Charleston City Market. ...
  • Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. ...
  • Fort Sumter National Monument. ...
  • Ravenel Waterfront Park. ...
  • Downtown Charleston. ...
  • Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum. ...
  • Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens. ...
  • Gibbes Museum of Art.

How much does it cost to visit Magnolia Plantation? ›

DescriptionPrice Qty
Adult (Ages 13-61) (1) General Admission - Adult Requires Date/Time (1) House Ticket Requires Date/Time$50.00
Senior (62+) (1) General Admission - Senior Requires Date/Time (1) House Ticket Requires Date/Time$47.00
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