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.

The Best Places to Stay in Charleston

For Boutique Chic

• Zero George Street is an enchanting 18-room hotel set in three converted mansions. Pick this place for lashings of Southern charm, a sophisticated restaurant and excellent location for exploring the historic district and the waterfront. The hotel bicycles are perfect for getting about the city and children are welcome too.
• The Spectator promises a swish, 1920s-inspired stay in historic Charleston. Think glamorous rooms decorated in soothing shades, as well as a speakeasy bar for unwinding, and gourmet breakfasts delivered to your door. A Jazz Age gem for grownups.
• The Andrew Pinckney Inn occupies two historic buildings next to the Charleston City Market. Characterful and comfortable, the 41 rooms and suites offer flexible accommodation for couples or families, and there are stacks of excellent eateries just around the corner. Stylish and family-friendly.
• Grand Bohemian Hotel is a dazzling, design-focused property with exhuberant interiors, an art-filled atrium, a funky rooftop cocktail spot, intimate wine bar and delicious fine-dining restaurant. A trendy city pad for art and design lovers.
• The Vendue is an eclectic art hotel close to the waterfront. Set in two warehouses, this unusual property features exposed brick walls and a blend of period and contemporary furnishings. The big attractions are the art gallery — complete with gallery tours and an artist-in-residence — and the lively rooftop bar.

For Romance

• Planters Inn is a refined Charleston icon, with elegant rooms and suites featuring antique furnishings and a white-and-cream palette. Stay here for an enchanted couples' escape in the city's only Relais & Châteaux property. Sip your champagne in a courtyard lit by carriage lanterns at dusk, and dine at the sophisticated Peninsula Grill. Fabulous.
• Fulton Lane Inn is a charming boutique B&B on King Street. The oldest building dates back to 1889, and interiors feature pastel shades and whimsical prints. Book a Cathedral Suite as a romantic treat. Wine & cheese evenings are a great touch. Popular for weddings.
• Wentworth Mansion is an ornate Golden Age gem with 21 sumptuous rooms and suites complete with fireplaces and whirlpool tubs. Ideal for a romantic weekend away, the property also features a small spa, gorgeous gourmet fare at Circa 1886 and space for intimate weddings. Exquisite.
• 86 Cannon blends mid-century design with classic French style in seven gorgeous guestrooms. Tucked within a former residence built in 1860, this is a charming boutique bolthole. Wine and cheese is served on the verandah each evening. Adults-only.

For Families or Groups

• The Charlestonian offers warm and welcoming multi-bedroom apartments in the quiet Cannonborough neighbourhood. Set in a lovely house, the apartments feature wooden floors, big kitchens and sitting rooms for relaxing together. Perfect for families or groups.
• The Quarters on King features a collection of one- and two-bedroom suites and loft apartments in downtown Charleston. Expect smart contemporary interiors and fully-equipped kitchens. Some lofts have roof terraces. Well-located for discovering Charleston with your group or family.
• The Restoration is a historic hotel with a modern twist, offering large, luxurious suites and apartments for families and groups. Cook up a storm in your fully-equipped kitchen, or head to the farm-to-table restaurant or lively rooftop bar for lunch and dinner. The plunge pool is a fun addition!

For Heritage Charm

• The John Rutledge House Inn dates back to 1763 and has become a Charleston icon, with its teal wrought-iron balustrade, 19 lavish rooms and leafy courtyard garden. This is a romantic base for history lovers and explorers, or those planning a small wedding. Port, sherry and brandy are served in the evenings.
• 20 South Battery is a striking 19th-century mansion opposite White Point Gardens. Its 11 characterful bedrooms feature four-poster beds topped with crisp white sheets. Enjoy complimentary wine and cheese in the parlour after days of soaking up Charleston's charms. For history buffs.
• Kings Courtyard Inn is tucked behind a 1853 façade, and offers 41 rooms and suites with exquisite period touches. Hide away in one of three courtyards, feast on the hotel's famed cinnamon rolls at breakfast, and stroll to both the nearby river and the market. A pretty King Street base.
• 21 East Battery sits right next to the famed Edmondston-Alston House, and includes three opulent heritage bedrooms with flexible room configurations for couples or families with teenagers. An intimate, old-school stay.

For a Grand City Hotel

• Belmond Charleston Place is a historic 430-room hotel with traditional interiors, as well as an indoor pool, spa and gym. The Charleston Grill Restaurant is a highlight, and the property is known for its classic Southern hospitality. A grand city pad.
• The Dewberry offers chic bedrooms with white interiors and light wooden furnishings in a landmark building. A fabulous French brasserie and two bars set the scene for elegant evenings of cocktails and oysters after relaxing treatments at the spa. For romantic couples, families or groups.
• Hotel Bennett is a grand city hotel with an old-school European feel. Highlights include the rooftop pool, delightful restaurants and pet-friendly options. Great for families, couples and business travellers.
• Emeline promises a swish stay for couples or families — who can book a two-bedroom suite — in Charleston's historic district. Once the headquarters of a wholesale grocers, the property has been transformed into a big, beautiful hotel with an elegant, grownup feel in 200+ guestrooms, as well as eateries and event spaces.

For Harbour Views

• Harbourview Inn is a 52-room townhouse mansion in the historic district of Waterfront Park. Expect traditional decor — with space for couples or families — as well as striking harbour views. Borrow a bike to cycle through the shopping and antiques district, before returning for drinks on the rooftop terrace.
• The Beachfront at Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina is a trendy choice for a luxurious beach holiday, complete with seaside dining, swimming pools and beautiful waterfront views. Ideal for active families, couples or groups of friends.

For a Rural Escape

• The Inn at Middleton Place is a secluded modernist hotel on the Middleton Place Estate, just a short drive from Charleston. Pick this hotel for the restful riverside location, top-notch service and mid-century aesthetic. Very stylish, yet fun for nature lovers of all ages.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Charleston International Airport,and travel into the city centre by bus or taxi. Alternatively, take the train from various cities across the USA.
• South Carolina is great for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Expect hot summers, with temperatures of around 30°C between June and September. Travel between March and May or September and November for cooler temperatures and great hotel deals.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our pick of all the best places to stay in Beaufort.
• Broaden your search to include the best places to stay in South Carolina.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Charleston