The Perfect 3-Day Charleston Itinerary: What to See & Do
Charleston, S.C., is the sort of place that seems both timeless and refreshing, historic and lively.
With its cobblestone streets, pastel-colored homes and breathtaking water views, this city is Southern charm personified.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie or just someone who appreciates a pretty place to explore, Charleston has something for you.
Whether you’re making a long weekend of it or popping in for a quick getaway, this 3-day itinerary has everything you need to hit all the top sites, best restaurants, and hidden gems—so you can see Charleston at its best.
Day 1: Horse-Drawn Carriages and Waterfront Views
Dive into history and stroll through picture-perfect streets during your first day in Charleston.
The city’s historic district is among the best-preserved in the country, and every corner looks straight out of a fairytale.
Morning: Walk Through the Historic District & Rainbow Row
Start your day bright and early with a stroll through Charleston’s Historic District.
As you walk, you’ll pass beautiful antebellum mansions, gas lanterns flickering on sidewalks, and secret gardens peeking through iron gates.
You must visit one of the city’s most famous places, Rainbow Row.
This row of 18th-century pastel-colored homes on East Bay Street is among the most photographed spots in Charleston.
The pastel colors set against the blue sky create the ideal Instagram-worthy photo opportunity.
Lunch: Waterfront Park & Lunch with a View
Just a short walk away, Waterfront Park provides some of the best views of Charleston Harbor.
The Pineapple Fountain—a symbol of hospitality—is an ideal spot for a photo op or to sit and unwind beside the water.
Where to eat: Fleet Landing is a popular local waterfront restaurant serving fresh seafood and boasting a view.
Sample their shrimp and grits, a Charleston classic, or the renowned crab cakes as you take in views of boats gliding across the harbor.
Afternoon: See the Battery & White Point Garden
In the afternoon, stroll The Battery, a historic promenade lined with grand mansions and ancient oak trees.
The views of the water with sailboats are simply stunning.
At the southern end, White Point Garden is a tranquil park with historic cannons, shady paths, and wide views of Fort Sumter in the distance.
It’s a great place to sit and soak in Charleston’s welcome calm.
Evening: Visit a Rooftop Bar & A Historic Home for Dinner
As the sun sets, grab a cocktail at The Rooftop at The Vendue, one of the best rooftop bars in the city.
The panoramic view of Charleston’s church steeples and harbor is gorgeous at golden hour.
For dinner: Reserve a table at Husk, one of the most storied restaurants in Charleston.
Located in a gorgeously restored historic house, Husk serves locally sourced Southern fare with contemporary flair. Their cornbread and smoked pork chop are not to be forgotten.
Day 2: Plantations, Beaches & Shopping
After a day of basking in Charleston’s historic charm, explore its verdant gardens, the beach, and its chic shopping scene.
Morning: Magnolia Plantation & Gardens
Begin your second day at Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, one of the prettiest plantations in the South.
Established in 1676, this property is famed for its romantic gardens, moss-covered oak trees, and quiet ponds filled with swans.
Join a guided tour of the historic house, wander among the charming bridges and gazebos, and take a wildlife boat tour—where you might see alligators and egrets.
Noon: Beach Escape on Sullivan’s Island
After a morning steeped in history, it’s time to decompress by the water.
Only a 20-minute drive from downtown Charleston, Sullivan’s Island features soft sandy beaches, calm blue waters, and a relaxed coastal vibe.
Have a leisurely lunch at Poe’s Tavern, a local favorite serving some of the best burgers and fish tacos in town.
Named for Edgar Allan Poe, who was stationed here in the 1820s, the place has a nice literary theme and a fun vibe.
Afternoon: Shopping on King Street
Back in Charleston, devote your afternoon to browsing the boutiques along King Street, the city’s top shopping stretch.
Everything from fancy designer boutiques and chic home decor shops to local artisan fairs can be found here.
Pop into Candlefish to craft your own custom-scented candle, or visit The Preservation Society of Charleston for one-of-a-kind Lowcountry gifts.
Dinner: A Secret Gem of a Courtyard
For dinner, avoid the crowds with 82 Queen, a lovely Southern restaurant with a cozy courtyard hidden in a historic 300-year-old building.
Order the she-crab soup—a Charleston specialty—and pair it with a plate of succulent shrimp and grits for an extremely satisfying Lowcountry meal.
Day 3: Boat Rides, Hidden Alleys, and Local Eats
On your last day in Charleston, take it easy and savor the hidden gems, lovely alleys, and coastal beauty of the city.
Morning: Sunrise Boat Tour or Kayaking Adventure
Kick off your final day with a scenic sunrise boat tour of Charleston Harbor.
As the sun rises over the water and the city, it is an unforgettable sight.
For something a little more active, rent a kayak or paddleboard and take to the calm waters of Shem Creek, where you’ll see dolphins swimming alongside you.
Brunch: Hidden Alleys & A Secret Garden
Back on land, spend some time wandering hidden alleys and cobblestone paths around Charleston.
Streets like Philadelphia Alley and Stoll’s Alley, which are hidden away from the main tourist routes, still feel like a step back in time.
For brunch, head to Blind Tiger Pub, a beautiful speakeasy-style restaurant with a secret garden courtyard.
Their chicken and waffles or pimento cheese dip are local favorites.
Afternoon: A Historic Cemetery & Unwinding at a Café
Make a stop at St. Philip’s Church Cemetery, one of Charleston’s oldest and loveliest resting places, for a quiet walk before heading home.
Here, the sprawling Spanish moss clings to trees and the weathered gravestones loom large, creating an eerie yet peaceful atmosphere.
Or, end your trip with coffee and pastries at The Harbinger Café, a cozy local haunt beloved for its homemade granola bars and iced lavender lattes.
