Search the best hotels in Charleston

Hotels in Downtown Charleston

A stay in downtown Charleston is the perfect way to get to know the historic city, with its cobblestone streets, grand Antebellum homes and horse-drawn carriages. The city center is a lively hub of culture, food, drinks and entertainment — and the perfect base for exploring this beautiful city. The good news is that there are plenty of hotels in downtown Charleston, from luxury spaces to budget-friendly stays, meaning all kinds of travelers can find something to suit them. We know it can be time-consuming to search them all, so our Gurus have done the hard work for you, handpicking the best hotels in downtown Charleston. Whether you’re looking for a great view of the bay, a unique boutique stay, or a hotel that’s buzzing with nightlife, you’re sure to find the perfect one for you. So make the most of your time in this vibrant city and start exploring our selection of the best hotels in downtown Charleston.

The best hotels in downtown Charleston

For those on a budget

  • The Andrew Pinckney Inn offers good value accommodation in a group of period townhouses in the heart of the historic district. The rooms are stylishly done and the property offers a truly warm southern welcome.
  • The Charlestonian is a range of independent self catering apartments spread throughout the downtown area. They offer good value if you're travelling as a family or small group, with multi person options.

For a swimming pool

  • Market Pavilion Hotel enjoys a prime downtown location and one of its highlights is the cascading rooftop pool, with stunning views over the historic quarter and accomanying Pavilion Bar for drinks and snacks.
  • The Charleston Place is the one to book if you're looking for a spot of traditional luxury with classically styled interiors and marble bathrooms. But for many the main draw is the fabulous rooftop saltwater pool with hot tub alongside and plenty of loungers for all.
  • The Bennett is another luxury option offering a blend of European style and Southern hospitality. Here you'll find another rooftop pool (this one's heated) and you can rent private cabanas, the larger of which can accommodate up to six people. Perfect for a relaxing day away from the sights!

For a balcony

  • Hotel Bella Grace is a tasteful conversion of an 1830s property to a design led boutique hotel with a range of rooms and suites (many with kitchen). For your private balcony or terrace book either the Penthouse Suite or the Delaney terrace suite.
  • Quarters on King is a boutique aparthotel in downtown Charleston. For an outdoor space book either the two bed loft with balcony or deluxe two bedroom suite with balcony.
  • The Spectator's stylish rooms and suites all come with an Art-deco vibe and the best feature either a balcony or private patio.

Pet Friendly

  • Kings Coutyard Inn has a limited range of dog friendly rooms, so if you're planning to take your pooch, book well ahead.
  • John Rutledge House Inn is a historical downtown property with 19 rooms. They have a handful of dog friendly rooms.
  • At Emeline pets are positively welcomed (though there is a weight limit of 40lbs and no cats allowed). Doggie packages include custom-made treats, dog mat, bowl and bed.

For a boutique hotel

  • 20 South Battery is a beautiful historic mansion turned luxury B&B. Meticulously restored throughout, rooms feature grand four poster beds, impressive antiques and original artworks. An intimate boutique property in a superb location.
  • Zero George Street oozes character, charm and style spread across three early 19th century townhouses. Plus there's a fabulous restaurant (one of the best in town) and decadent bar for cocktails.
  • 86 Cannon is a boutique hotel with just seven rooms in downtown historic Charleston. Book this one for its beautifully appointed suites, afternoon wine and cheese, and peaceful atmosphere (it's adults only).

Our top picks

  • The Vendue is an eclectic and lively property with a strong focus on art (it exhibits 200 original works throughout the hotel). It also plays host to one of the town's most popular rooftop bars and Revival Restaurant serves modern Southern cuisine. We love the buzzing atmosphere and choice of traditional or contemporary accommodation.
  • Wentworth Mansion is one of our Charleston favourites because it is dripping in period grandeur. Think marble floors, vaulted high ceilings, sweeping staircases and grand fireplaces. Its Circa 1886 Restaurant is one of the city's best fine dining venues and there's an intimate spa for individual or couples' treatments. A truly spoiling stay.
Andrew Pinckney Inn

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.

  • Local markets - Nextdoor Charleston City Market - the nation's oldest market - has been in running for 200+ years. Browse over 100 local vendors
  • Local exploring - Located two blocks above Charleston's Historic Market, many of the city's main sites are walking distance
  • Great walks - The city is home to great green spaces. Make sure to visit Waterfront Park, Battery Park and White Point Gardens
  • Sights nearby - No trip to Charleston is complete without a guided historic homes walking tour
from AU$268 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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The Charlestonian

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.

  • Local exploring - Great base for extended stays in the city. After days exploring, relax in this comfortable and spacious environment
  • Groups - Friends or families travelling together will appreciate the communal areas for downtime
  • Local markets - It's walking distance to the Historic Charleston City Market which has been in operation for over 200 years
  • Full of character -
from AU$323 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Fulton Lane Inn

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.

  • Value chic - Fab location means there's no need to hire transport to explore or go sightseeing; it's all on your doorstep. Worth every penny
  • Local exploring - Ideal location means that Charleston's Historic District, King Street and French Quarter sites are all around the corner
  • Families - The property's two-room suites are perfect for families travelling together. Look out for family-friendly packages too
  • Local markets - It's a five minute stroll to the city's renowned historic City Market; the oldest market in the country
from AU$368 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Kings Courtyard Inn

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.

  • Sights nearby - Drayton Hall Plantation is the oldest 18th Georgian Palladian building resting on the Ashley River.
  • Great walks - At dawn, or at dusk, walk south of broad.
  • Romantic
  • Full of character
from AU$368 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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The Restoration

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.

  • Sights nearby - Angel Oak - a live oak tree over 1,400 years old.
  • Local markets - Charleston Museum for local and natural history.
  • Swimming Pool - Rooftop pool
  • Views
from AU$414 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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The Loutrel

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.

  • Local exploring - Step back in time and visit the grounds of Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, founded in 1676 along the Ashley River
  • Romantic Break - Exquisite rooms boasting Matouk linens, Deep Steep spa products, and stunning views
  • Great walks - Stroll down The Battery promenade past historic landmarks until reaching the Charleston peninsula that overlooks Fort Sumter
  • Local markets - Charleston City Market is around the corner with an extensive collection of artisan stalls selling handcrafted souvenirs
from AU$429 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Market Pavilion Hotel

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.

  • Local exploring - Fantastic location in the heart of Charleston; waterfront, historic homes, nightlife, sites, restaurants & shops on the doorstep
  • Swimming Pool - The cascading rooftop pool with historic Charleston views is one of a kind in the city. A real draw on hot sunny days
  • Romantic Break - Old school romance; think grand pianos, epic sunsets, romantic dinners, rooftop cocktails and jetted bathtubs
  • Restaurant - With its classically elegant setting, Grill 225 Restaurant is considered one of the best steakhouses in the city
from AU$429 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Hotel Bella Grace

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.

  • City Style - Sleek city bolthole with impressive credentials; the hotel's architect, interior designer and gallerist make an all-female team
  • Walking distance restaurants - Trendy Delaney Oyster House is in the same building but not part of the hotel. Tuck into cocktails & signature seafood platters
  • Local exploring - Tranquil base that's walking distance from the city's major sites, historic architecture and entertainment on King Street
  • Romantic Break - Grown-up understated luxury ideal for weekends away; rooms come with fluffy robes, impressive tech and delicious coffee
from AU$439 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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The Spectator

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.

  • Local exploring - Right in the heart of the Historic District, with neo-classical architecture, cobblestone streets and antebellum mansions.
  • City Style - A sleek choice- this boutique hotel boasts cool 1920's speakeasy bar, crisp modern rooms and phenomanal service.
  • Local markets - The Historic Charleston City Market is just down the road.
  • Designer
from AU$445 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Zero George Street

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.

  • Foodies - The Zero Cafe has earned glowing reviews for its locally sourced and seasonal cuisine
  • Traditional - The hotel features many original features including heart pine floors and high ceilings.
  • Cooking classes - Every Monday and Saturday classes are held in the Kitchen Carriage House
  • Sights nearby - Middleton Place: a National Historic Landmark
from AU$445 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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The Dewberry

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.

  • City Style - An elegant property complete with French-style brasserie and two cocktail bars.
  • Sights nearby - Visit the eccentric stately home, the Calhoun Mansion.
  • Full of character -
  • Romantic -
from AU$460 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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20 South Battery

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.

  • Local exploring - South Battery is a sought out location due to its sea views, waterfront promenade and proximity to the heart of town
  • City Style - Manages to combine the grandeur of Charleston's past with luxury amenities firmly in the present
  • Sights nearby - The heart of Charleston's historic district and all major sites are within walking distance
  • Great walks - The property is located just across from White Point Gardens
from AU$475 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Harbourview Inn

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.

  • Luxury -
  • Local markets - The Old City Market.
  • Sights nearby - Waterfront Park.
  • Full of character -
from AU$475 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Mills House

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.

  • City Style - A historic property which has been refreshed for a 21st century crowd with sleek modern interiors and top facilities
  • Local exploring - A fabulous location in the heart of historic downtown and Charleston's French Quarter, ideal for on-foot exploring
  • Short break - With its central location, superb restaurant, chic accommodation and pool this is ideal for a short city break
  • Great walks - Charleston has a plethora of local parks, including Washington Square, perfect for stretching your legs
from AU$492 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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The Vendue

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.

  • Artworks - Perfect for art lovers! The property features 300+ works of art, daily art tours with wine & rolling artist-in-residence program
  • Local exploring - The downtown location means that the historic district's buildings, restaurants, shops, sites & galleries are walking distance
  • City Style - Feel the pulse of 21st century Charleston in this exciting modern property in historic buildings with oodles of character
  • Sights nearby - Fittingly the hotel is located in the city's Arts District. Visit Miller, Mitchell Hill, Mary Martin, Meyr Vogl & City galleries
from AU$506 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Planters Inn

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.

  • Local markets - Charleston City Market is a chance to meet Lowcountry artisans including more than 50 Gullah sweetgrass basket weavers.
  • Great walks - Middleton Place or Magnolia Gardens, previous plantation houses, offer some brilliant gardens.
  • Sights nearby - Confederate Museum.
  • Romantic -
from AU$508 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Emeline

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.

  • City Style - It's rare to find such a jewel of a hotel; a mix of history, character, soul & style - with all the modern touches guests expect
  • Romantic Break - A buzzing boutique option for a memorable weekend; eat & sleep well in carefully curated surroundings with magic atmosphere
  • Local exploring - The Charleston's historic quarter location means sites, museums, monuments - plus shopping & dining - are on the doorstep
  • Great walks - Walk across 10 acres in Charleston Waterfront Park, with it's prime location overlooking Charleston Harbor and the Cooper River
from AU$522 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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John Rutledge House Inn

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.

  • Sights nearby - Fort Sumter is where you can imagine the first shots of the Civil War.
  • Great walks - Step back in time and explore Charlestons history on a walking tour.
  • Romantic
  • Four poster beds
from AU$523 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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21 East Battery

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.

  • Museums - Located on the site of Edmonston-Alston House, a Greek Revival home built in 1825 and one of Charleston's fine house museums
  • Groups - Quarters is made up of two rooms, ideal for friends and couples travelling together. Carriage House can sleep up to four
  • City Style - Feels as though you're staying in an upmarket private house; enjoy the tranquil setting, privacy and rustic homely feel
  • Outstanding location - No other Charleston hotel offers immediate access and views onto The Battery, making this a prime address!
from AU$531 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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The Quarters on King

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.

  • Groups - Designed for hanging out and enjoying downtime; works well for hen parties, couples travelling together and families
  • City Style - Ideal base for extended stays; feels like a fully-furnished and comfortable home in the heart of the city
  • Cooking classes - Foodies should make time to go on one of the city's many food tours; Chow Down Charleston Food Tours offer a great experience
  • Sights nearby - It's walking distance to Old Exchange, Provost Dungeon, Old Slave Art Museum and Dock street theatre
from AU$552 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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The Charleston Place

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.

  • Great walks - Head to Waterfront Park for walk trails and fountains.
  • Sights nearby - Confederate Museum closeby.
  • Traditional -
  • Lively -
from AU$562 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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86 Cannon

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.

  • Local exploring - Set in a leafy area of Charleston, close to high-end boutiques and restaurants, this hotel is a luxury base for local exploring
  • Romantic Break - With beautifully appointed suites and two open-air terraces, this hotel makes an indulgent couples' getaway
  • City Style - Set in a heritage property in a stylish Charleston neighbourhood, this hotel has reams of local city charm
  • Great walks - Discover historic downtown Charleston on a guided walking tour; enquire at the hotel for more details
from AU$577 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston

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.

  • Roof terrace - Modelled on a secret garden, this fourth floor rooftop oasis boasts botanical cocktails, dining and historic city skyline views
  • Business meetings - In addition to ballroom and event spaces, there's art gallery cocktail receptions, wine-tastings and farm-to-table dining
  • Artworks - Visit the hotel's art gallery where contemporary artwork, sculptures and jewelry created by local artists is for sale
  • City Style - Luxurious pad in the heart of the action; enjoy both world-class amenities and enviable location
from AU$588 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Hotel Bennett

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.

  • City Style - A sumptuous, luxury hotel mixing European grandeur with Southern hospitality
  • Local exploring - Walking distance from the historic part of Charleston
  • Restaurant - Signature restaurant Gabrielle has a very European feel, or try Fiat Lux for its Mediterranean cuisine and rooftop views
  • Local markets - Visit the weekly farmers market that's held at Marion Square
from AU$614 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Wentworth Mansion

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.

  • Great walks - This pet friendly hotel is the perfect place for all the family, and there are many parks to take your pooch for a walk.
  • Opulent -
  • Traditional -
  • Romantic -
from AU$769 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia