Charleston , United States

Charleston City Sightseeing Bus Tour

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(1420 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Tour in comfort and safety as we show you the beauty of the Holy City. Let us do the driving as you relax and watch as 300 years of history pass by your window.

Our guide will escort you and your group through the historic streets of Charleston. You will see the beautiful buildings and churches of the queen city of the south in air conditioned comfort.

Available options

Departure Time

What's included

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Charleston Sightseeing Tour via luxury minibus

Air-conditioned transportation

Professional Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Let us do the driving while you relax as 300 years of Charleston history passes by your window. Your professional guide will escort you and your group through the historic streets of Charleston, rolling by popular Charleston sites such as Rainbow Row, the Battery, White Point Garden, Nathaniel Russell House, St. Michael's Church, and many more!

You will see the beautiful buildings and churches of the Queen City of the South in air-conditioned comfort as you listen to tales of Charleston history from its early colonial days, through the Civil War, and to the present. Perks such as bottled water and a free ride for active duty military with valid I.D. lend this tour a sense of true Southern hospitality. Let us show you why Charleston has been consistently ranked by Travel & Leisure Magazine as one of the top tour destinations in the world!

Guarantee your spot on this popular Charleston City Bus Tour by reserving ahead today!

Stop 2 Pass by

Charleston's oldest church has been tolling its bells on the hour since 1764.

Stop 3 Pass by

Pass by one of Charleston's most recognizable areas, Rainbow Row. This street represents the longest cluster of Georgian style row houses in the United States.

Stop 4 Pass by

See White Point Gardens, a 6 acre public park located in the southern part of the Battery.

Stop 5 Pass by

Located in Downtown Charleston near High Battery, the Nathaniel Russell House Museum, 51 Meeting Street, is widely recognized as one of America's most important neoclassical dwellings.

Stop 6 Pass by

Historic church located in downtown Charleston.

Stop 7 Pass by

Historic home in downtown Charleston

What's not included

Food and drinks, unless specified

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

632 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.9

788 reviews

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727

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Meeting point

Departure Point: The Charleston Visitor's Center
Address: 375 Meeting St.
Charleston SC
29401

Important notes

Tours depart from the Charleston Visitor's Center. Please plan to arrive at least 10-15 min prior to departure to allow for check-in and boarding.

Directions to meeting location: https://goo.gl/maps/9hLoJkfJp2N2

HOTEL PICK-UP

Guests MUST CALL 24 hrs in advance to reconfirm hotel pick-up time and location.

About Charleston

Charleston, South Carolina, is a historic coastal city known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant food scene. With its cobblestone streets, antebellum mansions, and picturesque waterfront, Charleston offers a unique blend of history, charm, and Southern hospitality.

Top Attractions

Historic Charleston City Market

One of the nation's oldest public markets, featuring local artisans, food vendors, and unique souvenirs. The market is a great place to experience the local culture and history.

Market 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for goods

Fort Sumter National Monument

The site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Visitors can take a ferry to the fort and learn about its historical significance.

Historical Half-day $24 for adults, $15 for children (includes ferry ride and park entrance)

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

A historic plantation with beautiful gardens, nature trails, and a zoo. It's one of the oldest public gardens in America.

Nature Half-day to full day $24 for adults, $12 for children

Must-Try Local Dishes

Shrimp and Grits

A classic Lowcountry dish featuring creamy grits topped with sautéed shrimp and a flavorful sauce

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or gluten-free

She-Crab Soup

A rich, creamy soup made with blue crab meat, crab roe, and a touch of sherry

Appetizer Contains shellfish

Popular Activities

Surfing at Folly Beach Kayaking in the Charleston Harbor Sunbathing and swimming at local beaches Spa treatments and wellness retreats Visiting historic sites and museums Attending local festivals and events Boating and sailing in the Charleston Harbor Fishing and crabbing

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with festivals and events.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (ET) - GMT-5 (EST) or GMT-4 (EDT during daylight saving time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Charleston is generally a safe city for travelers, but as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas

Getting there

By air

Charleston International Airport • 12 miles (19 km) from city center

By bus

Charleston Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) operates a network of buses. The system is affordable and convenient for getting around the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic District Mount Pleasant

Day trips

Folly Beach

8 miles (13 km) • Half-day to full day

A popular beach destination known for its laid-back atmosphere, surfing, and seafood restaurants. Folly Beach offers a great escape from the city with its wide sandy shores and ocean views.

Middleton Place

12 miles (19 km) • Half-day

A historic plantation with beautiful gardens, a museum, and a restored rice mill. Middleton Place offers a glimpse into the lives of plantation owners and enslaved people.

Festivals

Spoleto Festival USA • Late May to early June Charleston Wine + Food Festival • Mid-February

Pro tips

Visit the Historic District early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the cobblestone streets and architecture in a more relaxed atmosphere
Take a food tour to sample the best of Charleston's culinary scene and learn about the city's rich food history
Explore the local markets, such as the Charleston City Market, for unique souvenirs and to support local artisans
Consider a day trip to nearby attractions, such as Folly Beach or Middleton Place, for a change of pace and to experience the natural beauty of the Lowcountry
Attend a local festival or event, such as Spoleto Festival USA or the Charleston Wine + Food Festival, for a unique and memorable experience