Charleston , United States

Charleston History Tour /

Active

(388 reviews)

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

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Witness history on our daily walks. This breathtaking tour is filled with legends and heritage to proclaim Charleston's vibrant past and opulent history. Discover our quaint alleys, antebellum mansions, private gardens and cobblestone streets. From 1670 through the Civil War to the present day, I invite you to relish this venture into yesteryear.
- Rainbow Row
- French Quarter
- Four Corners of Law
- High Battery (visual tour of Forts Sutter & Moultrie)
- Old Exchange Building
- Dock Street Theatre
- South of Broad
- English Churches

Why Travelers Choose This Tour

This is a walking tour with a difference, aimed to make you feel like a local and introduce you to Charleston's hidden gems. Learn about pirates, food and architecture while discovering the city's secret sites. A small-group format ensures a personalized experience.

Available options

Charleston History Tours

What's included

All sites seen will not require additional payments.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Built in 1771, home to the ratification of the United States Constitution.

Learn about the "Gullahs" of Charleston.

Ornate playhouse with elegant woodwork and courtyard.
Circa 1810

Stop 4

A historic church and the oldest religious building in the city.
Circa 1764

Stop 5

Rainbow Row is composed of 9 buildings, attached to one another. All but one predate the American Revlution

Stop 6

The Battery is a defensive seawall and promenade on the Charleston Harbor

Built in 1844, it is the oldest Gothic Revival church in SC and is the only independent Huguenot Church in the country.

What's not included

Gratuities

Food and drinks

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

386 reviews

5★

363

4★

3★

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1★

Important information

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Wheelchair accessible

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

We meet in front of Charleston City Hall.
Corner of Meeting Street.
Public restrooms and water fountain are available.

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

Tour departs within walking distance of the cruise port

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