Historic Charleston Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour
Active
2h
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
Every corner of Charleston hides a world of history. Join us as your guide shares with you hundreds of years of stories, history, and local knowledge. This is a relaxing 2-hour stroll through the quaint and charming streets of the historic district including the French Quarter and the residential area "South of Broad", all the while learning about the people and events that shaped Charleston.
Available options
Historic Walking Tour
Discover the essentials of historic Charleston on this approximately 2 hour walk through the downtown historic district. A wonderful introduction to the "Holy City".
What's included
Explore the residential area "South of Broad"
Learn about the history and events that shaped Charleston
2-Hour Sightseeing Walking Tour of Historic Charleston
Several popular points of interest including Rainbow Row
Explore notable sites in the French Quarter
Stroll through the quaint and charming streets of the historic district
Professional & Licensed Local Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
The tour will begin in front of City Hall which is one of the pillars of the "Four Corners of Law" which also includes the Courthouse, the Post Office and St Michaels Church at the intersection of Meeting Street and Broad Street. From here you will explore many notable sites in the French Quarter and the residential area "South of Broad".
2
Stops on the tour will vary but you can generally expect to see notable sites in the French Quarter including the Dock Street Theatre, St Philips Church, The Slave Mart Museum, The Powder Magazine, the French Huguenot Church and the Pink House as well as many others.
**Please note that stops on the tour may vary**
3
Stop 3
Learn the history behind the famous Rainbow Row, one of the most photographed sites in Charleston. Rainbow Row is located in the "South of Broad" neighborhood which we will explore and includes many historically significant homes including the antebellum mansions located along the famous "Battery".
***Please note that stops along the tour may vary.***
4
Stop 4
Explore the residential area "South of Broad" including the Battery with views over the water to Fort Sumter. Please note that the tour will not cover the entire length of the Battery and stops along will vary per guide.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
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3★
26
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5
Tripadvisor
4.9
3,897 reviews
5★
3676
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2★
20
1★
6
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Comfortable walking shoes and a water bottle are strongly advised
This tour operates in all weather conditions. Please check the forecast prior to the tour.
Please contact us directly if members of your group are booked under a different name so that we can assign you all to the same tour guide.
Please arrive 15 minutes prior to tour start time as all tours begin promptly
Water is not provided and there are very few places to purchase water along the tour, so please bring a water bottle especially during the summer months
Please use the restroom prior to the tour as there are no public restrooms along the tour route
Meeting point
Please arrive 15 minutes prior to tour start time. All tours begin on time. Because there are multiple tour guides leaving from this location, please contact us directly if there are members of your group booked under a different name that you need to be together with.
Important notes
Starting point:
In front of City Hall at 80 Broad St (corner of Meeting St and Broad St)
#MEETING PLACE:
80 Broad Street. Please meet your guide outside City Hall on the corner of Meeting St. and Broad St. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the tour start time. Comfortable shoes and weather appropriate attire are recommended. Closest public parking garage is at 85 Queen St.
Click here for a map of the location https://goo.gl/maps/oetSdjSEVWx
Charleston is known for unexpected and sporadic showers especially in the summertime. We generally have a “rain or shine” policy, but reserve the right to cancel tours in potentially dangerous weather conditions. If we must cancel your tour, we will notify you by email, by phone or both prior to the start time.Enjoy!
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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