One of the most popular destinations in the South, glamorous Charleston is a brilliant city for art lovers, history buffs and foodies. Epitomised by its graceful old buildings — preserved when the city was captured during the Civil War — its friendly residents and soulful seafood eateries, this South Carolina gem is a particular favourite for an indulgent weekend escape. Charleston boasts a terrific array of accommodation options, ranging from cosy heritage B&Bs to swish boutique hotels in the heart of downtown fit for a plethora of tastes and budgets. Many of the best places to stay in Charleston are converted residences filled with character and charm.
Best experienced on foot, Charleston is a fascinating place for a guided walking tour. The city has a dark past as a bustling trading port built largely on slave labour, and its plethora of museums offer an excellent opportunity to unravel this sobering history. The Old Slave Mart Museum and the heritage mansions — including Nathaniel Russell House, Aiken-Rhett House and Edmonston-Alston House in the French Quarter — are good places to begin. Calhoun Mansion, too, houses a fantastic museum. Then head towards lively Charleston Harbor and visit imposing Fort Sumter, as well as the gorgeous gardens at Battery Point. The Aquarium, Charleston City Market and the Gibbes Museum of Art should also appeal to travellers of all ages. Venture into the countryside for Middleton Place and Drayton Hall, or along the coast for beautiful beaches and the chance to fish, kayak and sail.
The city’s quirky blend of European, Caribbean and West African influences is also evident in its mouth-watering food, and there are plenty of travellers who come to Charleston simply to eat. Expect to savour delectable oysters and rich crabs soups in tiny bars or buzzing restaurants throughout the day and evening. Nights out are fabulous: don’t miss Charleston’s cracking craft cocktail scene!
Warm, hospitable and bursting with stories, Charleston is a superb destination for a romantic trip, family holiday or adventure with friends. Top things off by booking a room at one of the best places to stay in Charleston: there are some beautiful properties on our list.
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Charleston (Ansonborough)
Charming boutique inn located in the heart of Charleston's historic district. Made up of several 300-year-old buildings, the 19th-century facade creates a strong sense of place, while chic rooms with West Indies touches offer modern comforts. Enjoy a rooftop solarium and the striking inner atrium.
Charleston (South Carolina)
Modernist hotel located on the estate of historic Middleton Place house museum & gardens. A secluded riverside spot overlooking untouched marshland gives a Southern feel. Spacious rooms with river & garden views channel midcentury aesthetic with wood floors, shutters & furniture. Sophisticated luxe.
Charleston (Cannonborough)
Range of contemporary multi-room apartments in quiet Cannonborough neighbourhood. Spacious living, dining and kitchen areas designed for families or groups give way to cosy bedrooms; some have balconies. Upscale decor combines wood floors, bold tones and objets d'art creating a warm and homely feel.
Charleston (King Street)
Quiet centrally-located boutique hotel tucked away behind King Street. Within a 19th-century structure, cosy rooms feature high ceilings, serene canopy beds, warming fireplaces and whirlpool tubs. Enjoy in-room breakfasts, evening refreshments and the city on your doorstep. A great value hidden gem.
Charleston (King Street)
1853 Ancient Greek revival facade, classically decorated interiors and two courtyards. High ceilings, original features in the comfortable rooms with private bathrooms and complimentary breakfast. Step back into Charleston's history through tours and mansions, or explore the modern day restaurants.
Charleston (Harleston Village)
Old downtown hotel offers local elegance, hardwood floors and exposed brick. Fully equipped kitchens (with dryer and washing machine), comfortable double beds and modern bathrooms. Breakfast offered in picnic baskets, wine and cheese receptions, rooftop eatery and cookies with milk as a nightcap.
Charleston (French Quarter)
An historic hotel in Charleston's French Quarter. Stylish rooms are decorated in shades of baby blue and grey with floor-to-ceiling windows framing the views. There's a complimentary breakfast and a restaurant for light bites, plus a relaxed roof terrace. The perfect blend of elegance and comfort.
Charleston (French Quarter)
Traditional luxury hotel boasting a prime Charleston location & show-stopping rooftop pool. Classic rooms with period decor & ornate bathrooms reflect the city's rich history; dine at the old-world steakhouse or enjoy al fresco cocktails with sea views. Suits those after good old-fashioned romance.
Charleston (Ansonborough)
Tasteful conversion of a centrally-located 1830s home into a design-led modern luxury boutique hotel. Grey, marble and monochrome tones give an on-trend feel to well-designed rooms and self-catered studios. Plus there's a gym, terrace and breakfast included, and a popular restaurant next door.
Charleston (French Quarter)
A boutique hotel in the centre of historic Charleston, evoking the style of the roaring twenties, complemented with Southern charm and hospitality. Stylish rooms and suites with an art deco vibe, some with balcony or terrace and gourmet breakfast delivered to your door. A chic city centre spot.
Charleston (Ansonborough)
A boutique hotel set in three early 19th century townhouses with unique Southern charm, full of character. Exceptional food, great details, close to the historic centre.
Charleston (Ansonborough)
A beautifully designed hotel set in an historic building. Perfectly mixing contemporary style and traditional charm rooms are chic and homely. A fabulous French brasserie and two bars set the scene for elegant evenings of cocktails and oysters. A glorious hotel that encapsulates that Southern charm.
Charleston (South of Broad)
Historic private mansion transformed into luxury B&B. Meticulously restored to its former glory, rooms are decorated with grand four-poster beds, impressive antiques and period artwork. Expect high-end bedding, deluxe bath products, smart TVs and homely touches. Intimate feel with an ideal location.
Charleston (French Quarter)
This townhouse mansion in the historic district on the Waterfront Park maintains the traditional interiors such as high ceiling reception, welcoming fireplace and art works. Rooms boast fine linens, four-poster beds, whirlpool baths and breakfast in-room. City exploring is accessible.
Charleston (King Street)
A historic icon in downtown Charleston. Stylish, fresh-feeling rooms and suites provide timeless and sophisticated accommodation. Plus there's an all-day cafe, Iron Rose courtyard restaurant for southern bites and craft cocktails and lovely outdoor pool. A striking stay in the heart of the action.
Charleston (French Quarter)
Eclectic and lively hotel with a strong art focus. Set across two buildings, each made up of 18th-century warehouses, expect exposed brick walls and blend of period and modern furnishings. Enjoy art gallery, property tours and artist-in-residence, plus a classic restaurant and popular rooftop bar.
Charleston (Ansonborough)
Prime location in the historic district, a 19th Century inn with classic interiors and fine dining at Peninsula Grill. Spacious rooms offer four-poster beds, private sitting rooms and bathrooms. Dine al fresco, or explore the city market for many other options. A historian's dream stay.
Charleston (Ansonborough)
Brimming with playful charm, this beautifully converted historic hotel offers stylish rooms, lively dining options & a vibey courtyard terrace. Rooms have thoughtful amenities, embroidered linens, mid-century furniture & velvet headboards. A perfect boutique property in the heart of the action.
Charleston (Harleston Village)
Ornate ironwork facade, elaborate interiors with Italian fireplaces make this historical townhouse a Charleston boutique favourite. Large light rooms with complimentary breakfast and access to a relaxing courtyard. Plantations, history and oceanfront strolls await you from this prime spot.
Charleston (South of Broad)
Stunning B&B located within the grounds of a 19th-century waterfront mansion. Book either the cosy Carriage House or one of two rooms within the Quarters; all have kitchens and large living areas. Tasteful decor in classic style combines art, antiques and pine floors. Understated historic chic.
Charleston (King Street)
Luxury apartment hotel with a fab downtown location, walking distance to all the sites. Within the historic building, spacious one and two-bedroom apartments have fully-equipped kitchens, living and dining areas have been decorated in a fresh contemporary style with homely touches. Amazing value.
Charleston (King Street)
Old South hospitality, grand reception rooms and prime spot in the historic centre. Rooms are conservatively decorated with marble bathrooms and city views. Charleston Grill is southern cooking at its finest and a drinking hole for locals. Plus there's a rooftop pool, spa and gym.
Charleston (Cannonborough)
This boutique hotel is nestled within a 1860s residence in the heart of Charleston. Interiors blend mid-century elegance with classic French design and a touch of Southern style. With nightly wine and cheese served on the hotel verandah, this is a discerning city bolt-hole.
Charleston (Patriots Point)
Luxury resort with views over Charleston. This expansive waterfront property boasts a private beach, amazing sunsets, seaside dining, pools & multiple dining options; it works for couples, families and friends. Super comfortable contemporary-style rooms offer balconies, lots of space and sea views.
Charleston (King Street)
Luxury hotel with all the trimmings located in historic downtown. Expect champagne on arrival, an art-filled atrium, funky rooftop with city views, fine-dining restaurant and upscale wine bar. Colourful rooms are compact but exceedingly comfortable with fluffy robes, smart TVs and modern artwork.
Charleston (Garden District)
The Hotel Bennett has an imposing white exterior which opens up onto suitably grand interiors. Luxurious rooms have a traditional European feel with antique-style furniture and lavish bathrooms. Excellent regional dishes are served in the restaurant and the rooftop pool is a very nice addition.
Charleston (Harleston Village)
America’s Gilded Age mansion oozes Charleston history through its marble floors, vaulted high ceilings and antique furnishings. Large rooms with fireplaces are unique and with modern amenities and complimentary breakfast. Enjoy a range of spa treatments or head out to explore yester-year.
Charleston (King Street)
A luxury boutique hotel in Charleston's heart crafted from two period buildings, which now offers a blend of historic charm and modern luxury. Victorian elegance meets contemporary comforts — think stylish suites with full kitchens — plus a chic oyster bar. An urban oasis for discerning travellers.
