Charleston City Guide Cover Image, showcasing a picturesque street in Charleston, South Carolina.
As a content creator for conduct.edu.vn and a Charleston enthusiast, I’m thrilled to present you with the most up-to-date Charleston Travel Guide. My love affair with this city started long before I moved here. For years, Charleston was my go-to escape, a place I visited religiously every other month. It all began with a press trip that ignited an enduring passion, even leading me to (easily!) convince my parents to relocate to John’s Island. Now, with my sister joining me here last year, Charleston is truly home, and it’s even better than I ever dreamed.
It’s hard to articulate just how captivating Charleston is. If you haven’t experienced it yet, put it at the top of your travel list. It’s the quintessential weekend getaway, especially for those on the East Coast – a quick flight from New York whisks you away to a world of charm and history. This guide is your key to unlocking the best of Charleston. I’m constantly updating it with new discoveries and timeless favorites, ensuring you have the most current recommendations for an unforgettable trip.
Think of this as your curated list of Charleston must-dos, constantly refreshed to reflect the evolving gems of this incredible city. Get ready to explore the best dining, activities, and hidden corners Charleston has to offer!
Updated October 26, 2023
Welcome to Charleston: A vibrant street scene capturing the essence of downtown Charleston.
Fresh Oysters at Leon’s Oyster Shop: A tempting close-up of raw oysters, a Charleston culinary delight.
Charleston City Guide: Must-Visit Spots
Where to Eat: A Charleston Culinary Journey
Alphabetical order seemed the fairest way to present these favorites – choosing would be impossible!
Bar 167: Mediterranean Flavors in a Cozy Setting
Located just around the corner from its sister restaurant Raw 167, Bar 167 offers a delightful Mediterranean twist. Don’t let the small menu fool you; every dish is bursting with flavor. The truffle butter, if available, is an absolute must-try!
Basic Kitchen: Healthy Eats with a Trendy Vibe
Basic Kitchen is a Charleston staple for good reason. Enjoy delicious, healthy food alongside equally tempting drinks – the beet margarita and salmon bowl are highly recommended. The restaurant’s open and airy ambiance, coupled with a fantastic outdoor dining area, evokes a relaxed, Californian feel.
Bistronomy by Nico: Innovative French Cuisine and Cocktails
Bistronomy by Nico is where culinary creativity shines. Expect exciting, inventive dishes like escargot dumplings and expertly crafted cocktails. Grab a seat at the bar for a lively atmosphere and enjoy drinks with a selection of their unique appetizers.
Chasing Sage: Farm-to-Table Freshness
For the freshest, locally sourced ingredients, Chasing Sage is a must. This farm-to-table gem offers an exceptional dining experience. For a special occasion, opt for the “everything for the table” menu, a curated tasting experience that showcases the best of their seasonal offerings.
Chez Nous: An Ever-Changing Menu of Culinary Surprises
Chez Nous offers a truly unique dining concept with a daily changing menu of only a few options – two appetizers, two entrees, and two desserts. Check their Instagram account for the day’s offerings. The intimate space is perfect for small groups, and the food is consistently outstanding – a Charleston dining highlight.
Chubby Fish: Seafood Sensations Worth the Wait
Chubby Fish might just serve up one of the best seafood meals you’ll have in Charleston. Be prepared for a wait – lines start forming as early as 4 PM, and they don’t take reservations. However, seafood lovers will find it’s worth the queue. Don’t miss the wagyu tartare, amberjack crudo, and the indulgent caviar sandwich.
FIG: A Charleston Fine Dining Institution
FIG, a long-standing Charleston favorite, recently underwent renovations. Anticipate a refined dining experience with a menu where everything is delicious. Trust your server’s recommendations – they are incredibly knowledgeable. If mackerel is on the menu, even if you’re hesitant, give it a try; FIG’s preparation is exceptional.
Hank’s Seafood Restaurant: Classic Charleston Seafood
Hank’s is synonymous with Charleston seafood excellence, consistently winning awards in the category. Expect a formal, white-tablecloth experience with truly outstanding seafood and expertly made martinis.
Honeysuckle Rose: An Unforgettable Tasting Menu Experience
For a truly special and indulgent evening, Honeysuckle Rose is unparalleled. This restaurant offers an exceptional 8-course tasting menu with wine pairings (and amazing mocktails for non-drinkers). For an interactive experience, try to secure seats at the chef’s table.
Husk: Southern Brunch Classics with a Twist
Husk is a bit of a Charleston icon, though some consider it slightly overrated. However, for a classic Charleston brunch featuring pimento cheese, biscuits, and fried delights, it’s a solid choice. The food is rich and flavorful. For a more relaxed experience, their adjacent bar is a fantastic happy hour spot with superb cocktails.
La Farfalle: Authentic Italian Flavors
La Farfalle serves up incredibly authentic Italian cuisine. It’s a tough choice between La Farfalle and Melfi’s (another excellent Italian spot with a New York vibe). Must-orders include the whipped ricotta and the linguini with clam sauce.
Leon’s Oyster Shop: Casual Oysters and Fried Chicken Perfection
Leon’s Oyster Shop is a go-to lunch spot, especially on a sunny day with its ample outdoor seating. Oysters, rosé, and their famous fried chicken sandwich – a simple yet perfect Charleston meal.
Little Jack’s Tavern: Elevated Tavern Fare
From the team behind Leon’s, Little Jack’s Tavern offers a tavern-style experience with delicious, elevated bar food. Think gourmet burgers, truffle fries, and other tempting bites. The “girl burger,” a perfectly sized tavern burger, is a popular choice.
Maison: French Bistro Excellence
Maison brings authentic French bistro fare to Charleston, boasting what might be the best steak tartare and French onion soup in town.
Malagon: Spanish Tapas Delights
Malagon, from the same owners as Chez Nous, specializes in incredibly flavorful Spanish tapas. Their white asparagus and curated selection of cured meats and cheeses are standouts.
Melfi’s: Buzzworthy Italian
Melfi’s lives up to the hype, offering some of the best Italian food in Charleston. Don’t miss the Stretch Armstrong pizza and the Cacio e Pepe.
The Ordinary: Oysters and Cocktails in a Historic Setting
The Ordinary is a Charleston favorite for its fantastic cocktails and oyster selection. The crab toast is legendary. Their happy hour at the bar, with oysters, fish dip, and a glass of Sancerre, is a Charleston ritual.
The Palmetto Cafe at Charleston Place: Luxurious Brunch Buffet
The Palmetto Cafe at Charleston Place offers a brunch experience that is truly indulgent. This grand buffet features an omelet station, carving stations, extensive cheese and dessert selections – a brunch lover’s paradise.
The Peninsula Grill: Coconut Cake Heaven
The Peninsula Grill is famed for its coconut cake. While a full meal here is a treat, the coconut cake alone is worth a visit – they even ship it worldwide!
Raw 167: Oyster Bar Obsession
Raw 167 is an oyster bar institution in Charleston. While the oysters are superb, the lobster roll and tuna burger are equally compelling. Sharing both with a friend is the perfect strategy.
Sorelle: Italian Elegance and Ambiance
Sorelle is Charleston’s current hotspot, known for its stunning ambiance and delicious Italian cuisine. While they have a formal dining room, the bar area is a favorite for its lively atmosphere.
Vern’s: Farm-Fresh and Flavorful
Vern’s is a newer favorite, focused on fresh, farm-to-table dishes. While they no longer serve brunch, dinner is always exceptional. The crudo and the salad with breadcrumbs are highly recommended.
Xiao Bao Biscuit: Asian Comfort Food with Flair
Xiao Bao Biscuit is a fantastic lunch spot with delicious drinks and their signature cabbage pancake – a surprisingly delicious dish that will redefine your perception of cabbage.
Zero George Street: Epic Tasting Menus
The Zero George tasting menu is a splurge-worthy experience, perfect for special occasions.
Charleston Street Photography: A captivating shot of a colorful street corner in Charleston, highlighting its architectural charm.
Beyond Dining: Exploring Charleston’s Activities
Historical and Ghost Tours:
Bulldog Tours offers engaging walking tours, including historical and ghost tours – a spooky and fun way to explore Charleston’s past. Walk & Talk tours! are another highly recommended option.
Beach Days:
Charleston’s proximity to beautiful beaches is a major draw. Sullivan’s Island is a personal favorite, while Folly Beach and Isle of Palms are also stunning choices for sun and sand.
Pampering in Charleston: Spas and Salons
Hair and Beauty:
For hair services, Stefanie Hattaway (Instagram: @stefaniehattawayhmua) is highly recommended for cuts and highlights. For facials and Botox, Ella Ora (https://ellaora.com/) in Mt. Pleasant is a top choice, though appointments book up months in advance. Spa Azure (https://spaazure.com/), with two convenient locations, also offers excellent facials. For waxing, European Wax Center is a reliable option.
Bookstore Finds: Literary Gems in Charleston
Local Bookstores:
Buxton Books is a classic neighborhood bookstore with a local feel and frequent author events. Blue Bicycle Books is a personal favorite, specializing in used, rare, and local books.
Charleston Bookstore Scene: Inside Blue Bicycle Books, showcasing shelves filled with literary treasures and local books.
Charleston Architecture and Charm: A picturesque view of Rainbow Row, a famous street known for its colorful historic houses in Charleston.
Charleston’s Best Bars: Where to Drink
Cocktail and Wine Bars:
The Belmont is a long-time favorite for amazing cocktails. While their Negronis are classic, even their unexpected Piña Coladas are excellent. Bin 152, a wine bar from the Chez Nous team, boasts an exceptional wine selection. Graft is a newer favorite wine bar, praised for its curated wines and happy hours. Vintage Lounge is a top cocktail bar pick, appreciated for its drinks and beautiful space. Sorelle (https://www.sorellecharleston.com/) offers a vibrant bar scene with great bartenders in a stunning setting.
Dive Bars and Rooftop Views:
The Blind Tiger is a classic, fun dive bar with a charming back patio. Henry’s provides a multi-room bar experience, almost like a boozy treehouse. The Watch, the rooftop bar at The Restoration Hotel, offers fantastic city views from its patios.
Charleston Rooftop Bar View: A scenic rooftop view from The Watch Rooftop Bar, overlooking the Charleston cityscape at sunset.
Charleston Restaurant Ambiance: The interior of a vibrant Charleston restaurant, showcasing its lively atmosphere and design.
Charleston Shopping District: King Street in Charleston, bustling with shoppers and lined with boutiques and stores.
Retail Therapy: Where to Shop in Charleston
Charleston is a surprisingly excellent shopping destination, especially along King Street.
Clothing Boutiques:
Hampden Clothing is a go-to for curated designer pieces, often featuring designers before they hit New York boutiques. Beckett Boutique offers a beautiful selection of contemporary clothing. Beau and & Ro is the ultimate destination for dresses, including their own private label line.
Jewelry:
Croghan’s Jewel Box is a Charleston institution, offering estate jewels and their in-house Goldbugs line, known for its iconic Goldbug earrings and other beautiful pieces.
Charleston Boutique Shopping: Inside Hampden Clothing boutique, displaying a selection of high-end fashion apparel and accessories.
Charleston Jewelry Design: Close-up of Goldbug earrings from Croghan’s Jewel Box, highlighting their unique and intricate design.
Beau and Ro Dress Collection: A display of elegant dresses at Beau and Ro boutique, showcasing their signature styles and fabrics.
Coffee and Breakfast Spots to Start Your Day in Charleston
Cafes and Bakeries:
Alcove is a newer, charming spot for coffee and breakfast, located near Colonial Lake. Callie’s Hot Little Biscuits is famous for its warm, delicious biscuits. The Daily is a great option for coffee and grab-and-go breakfast items. Harbinger is a cute café known for its coffee and people-watching location. The Rise at The Restoration Hotel is another excellent coffee spot, especially for croissants. Second State Coffee (formerly Black Tap) is a good place for coffee and quiche. Sorelle’s Mercato (https://www.sorellecharleston.com/) offers great lattes and pastries. Brown’s Court Bakery is known for delicious coffee and amazing pastries (arrive early!). Baba’s on Cannon is a favorite for coffee, snacks, and sandwiches. Sightsee Coffee Shop is a sweet spot with great coffee and a shop in the back. Queen Street Grocery is a go-to for crepes, smoothies, and cold brew.
Charleston Hotel Lobby: The elegant lobby of The Dewberry hotel, showcasing its mid-century modern design and sophisticated ambiance.
Charleston Hotel Room Interior: A stylish room at Guesthouse Charleston, featuring a blend of comfort and modern design within a historic Charleston home.
Charleston Hotel Exterior: The charming exterior of 86 Cannon, a bed and breakfast known for its intimate setting and welcoming atmosphere.
Where to Stay in Charleston: Hotels and Inns
Luxury and Boutique Hotels:
The Dewberry is a top pick for a luxury experience, with perfect rooms, a lobby bar, and the Citrus Club rooftop. Guesthouse offers a unique hybrid of home and hotel with rental houses and apartments around a courtyard. 86 Cannon is a charming B&B with a few rooms and kind owners. The Restoration Hotel features cozy rooms, beautiful décor, a library, Rise coffee shop, and The Watch rooftop bar. The Planter’s Inn is luxurious, charming, central, and attached to Peninsula Grill. Zero George is one of Charleston’s most beautiful hotels, though slightly less central.
Luxury Hotel Suite in Charleston: An opulent suite at The Planter’s Inn, showcasing its classic elegance and luxurious amenities.
Charleston Charm and Details: Window boxes overflowing with flowers on a historic Charleston building, capturing the city’s floral beauty.
Venture to Sullivan’s Island: A Coastal Escape
Sullivan’s Island Dining & Drinks:
Poe’s Tavern is a relaxed burger joint dedicated to Edgar Allan Poe. The Obstinate Daughter is a must-visit for its delicious and varied menu. Coop is the place for frosé with numerous flavors. Home Team BBQ is a great casual spot for BBQ and frozen drinks.
Sullivan’s Island Shopping:
Goldbug jewelry, by designer Ashley Reid Martin, offers beautiful, lightweight brass pieces perfect for Charleston’s climate.
Explore John’s Island: Local Gems
John’s Island Restaurants:
The Wild Olive, from the Obstinate Daughter team, serves outstanding Italian food. The Southern General is a hidden gem in a mall, known for its incredible turkey pesto sandwich.
This Charleston travel guide is your starting point for discovering the magic of this Southern gem. From its rich history and stunning architecture to its vibrant food scene and coastal charm, Charleston offers something for every traveler. Start planning your unforgettable Charleston adventure today!
