Is 3 days enough in Charleston?

Charleston's manageable size allows you to see a lot in a short time, making it the perfect choice for a quick getaway. In fact, 3 days in Charleston is just enough to experience the best of this Southern city. Charleston is one of the first places I ever traveled to with my husband, and I've been smitten ever since.



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We hardly felt rushed – Charleston is a great spot for a quick weekend getaway. If you wanna take a day trip or two (to maybe Fort Sumter, Beaufort, and/or even Savannah), plan 3 or 4 full days.

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Two days is just enough time to soak up Charleston's small-town charm and Lowcountry flavor. Thanks to being compact and walkable, the city is packed with plenty to see and do—from moss-draped cemeteries and pastel-colored homes to oyster bars and rooftop lounge. Still, you'll need to strategize.

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Both have an extensive history, beaches nearby, and plantations to visit (though Charleston has more beaches and more plantations). Savannah's downtown is more walkable and feels immersed in nature. Charleston's is bigger, so there's more to do, but it'll take much longer if you plan on walking.

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The best time to visit Charleston, SC is from mid-March through May and from September through November, when temperatures are moderate. Take advantage of spring and fall's excellent walking weather to stroll the city's parks and the waterfront Battery.

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In summary The French Quarter is the best area to stay in Charleston, SC for first-time visitors who want to be steps from Rainbow Row, the most picturesque streets, and the top sights. Marion Square is ideal for those focusing on shopping and dining at the top restaurants.

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Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Charleston and is known for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and high energy boardwalk. Charleston is famous for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. It is also well known for The Waterfront Park.

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Can I get around Charleston without a car? Yes, the Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) provides bus transportation throughout the region. There is also a free trolley that provides transportation throughout the historic district when visiting. See above for more info.

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The cheapest time to visit Charleston, SC is generally during the winter months (December to February), except for holiday periods such as Christmas and New Year's Eve.

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Historical Sights: Charleston's downtown is one of the most charming and well preserved Old Town's in the United States. It's easy to see why it's become a world class destination. Shopping: The city is famous for its historic market in the center of town. Local goods, foods, and crafts are sold daily here.

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Charleston offers plenty of transportation options for getting around without a car. These include bus routes operated by the CARTA (Carolina Area Rapid Transit Authority) and the free Downtown Area Shuttle (DASH) service. Additionally, services like Uber and Lyft are available in Charleston.

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I recommend spending 4.5 days in Charleston and 3.5 in Savannah: Day 1: Downtown Charleston. Day 2: Cypress Gardens & Folly Beach. Day 3: Boone Hall Plantation & Sullivan's Island.

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Myrtle Beach The #1 tourist destination in all of South Carolina is Myrtle Beach. With over 19 million visitors a year, Myrtle Beach is the most obvious choice for this list. It is a family- and budget-friendly vacation spot with something for everyone with its famous boardwalk and mega SkyWheel.

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While both cities have International Airports, it is usually cheaper to fly into Myrtle Beach than it is to fly into Charleston.

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No summertime trip to Charleston is complete without a trip to one of the area's beautiful beaches. Soak up the laid-back vibe of Folly Beach, the family friendly feel of Isle of Palms or the unspoiled ocean views at Sullivan's Island.

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With its remarkable history and eclectic mix of fashion, art, antiques, home décor, and extraordinary food, King Street is the most vibrant and distinctive downtown in America. King Street is a perfect blend of local, regional, and national shops that remains the place to be for retailers of all types.

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You'll find trendy young people all over Charleston, but there's a definite density in the North Morrison Drive, Cannonborough-Elliotborough, and Wagener Terrace neighborhoods of downtown. Off the Charleston peninsula, Park Circle in North Charleston and Avondale in West Ashley are also hipster hotspots.

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Best Neighborhood for the Beach: Folly Beach Though we also love Sullivan's Island, Folly Beach is our favorite seaside neighborhood, some 20 miles south of Downtown Charleston on Folly Island.

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