4 Days in Charleston, South Carolina: Southern Charm & History

Charleston, South Carolina, is a city brimming with charm, history, and vibrant culture. With its cobblestone streets, historic mansions, and sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, Charleston offers an unforgettable experience in just four days.

Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or someone looking to relax, Charleston has something for everyone. Here’s how to make the most of a four-day getaway to this beautiful Southern city.

Day 1: Explore Historic Charleston

Kick off your Charleston adventure by diving into its rich history and beautiful architecture.

Morning stroll in the streets

When we first arrived in Charleston, we wanted to get a feel of the city and its atmosphere.

Stroll down King Street

So, we made our way to Kings Street, lined with historical buildings, numerous leather shops, boot stores, fashion boutiques, and cozy coffee spots.

Visit the Charleston City Market: We headed to the Historic Charleston City Market which is one of the most visited places in town. Throughout the 19th century, the market provided a convenient place for farms and plantations to sell beef and produce; it also acted as a place for locals to gather and socialize.

Today, home to more than 300 vibrant entrepreneurs, visitors and residents flock to the market to buy souvenirs, crafts, woven baskets, jewelry, clothing, sweets, and artwork.

Tour the Old Slave Mart Museum

Charleston was one of the busiest slave ports in the United States during the 18th and 19th centuries, and the museum

provides a powerful narrative about this painful chapter of American history.

From 1856 to 1863, the building served as a slave auction house, where enslaved Africans were sold to the highest bidder, making it a significant part of Charleston's role in the commerce of slavery.

Afternoon touring Historical Houses

Dive into the history of those iconic merchants houses. Those historical landmarks dating back to the 18th and early 19th centuries and home to wealthy merchants, often feature distinctive architectural styles, reflecting Charleston's prosperity during the colonial and antebellum periods.

Visiting these merchant houses offers a unique window into the wealth and power of Charleston’s elite during the city's peak as a trading port. Each house tells a story of business, family, and cultural history, including the role of slavery in the success of the merchants.

• The Edmondston-Alston House. Location: 21 East Battery

• The Aiken-Rhett House, where you can step back in time to see how wealthy Charlestonians lived in the 19th century. Location: 48 Elizabeth Street

• The Nathaniel Russell house brown stone neoclassic Location: 51 Meeting Street

Tips: Aiken Rhett House and Nathaniel Russel offer Combo tickets!

Evening tasting Lowcountry Cuisine

Wind down with dinner in one of Charleston's renowned restaurants, such as FIG, where you can enjoy delicious Southern cuisine. There are of course many other options! But only sharing the places we have experienced :-)

Day 2: Discover Charleston’s Famous Plantations

Today, immerse yourself in Charleston’s beautiful plantation landscapes and historical significance. You can drive there or alternatively get on a tour with pick up from Charleston. (see useful links below).

Morning at Boone Hall Plantation

Start with a visit to Boone Hall Plantation. It is one of the most iconic plantations in the area, just 35min drive from downtown Charleston.

As you arrive, you will be admiring the stunning entrance lined with Oak Trees leading to the plantation house.

Boone Hall is one of the oldest working plantations in America, dating back to 1681.

It has a long and moving past, with its most significant periods tied to the production of cotton and indigo, as well as its connection to the enslaved African labor force that was essential to the plantation's success.

The house is a beautiful example of Colonial Revival architecture.

Although not the original plantation house (the earlier home was destroyed by fire), it still reflects the style and design of a plantation home.

The slave quarters at Boone Hall are some of the most intact and preserved in the Charleston area.

The nine original brick-built structures (called "slave cabins") were built in the 1790s and provide a powerful look at the lives of those who were enslaved on the plantation.

Afternoon at Magnolia Plantation House

Visit the Magnolia Plantation House: Built in the late 1800s. It is a beautiful example of Southern plantation architecture. While the house itself is not open to the public, I strongly recommend to visit the slave quarters as well as the Aubudon Swamp gardens.

Walk the Aubudon Swamp Gardens.

Those swamp will give you another perspective of the harsh living conditions.

Covering 60 acres of wetland and home to a diverse range of wildlife, the swamp is equipped with boardwalks that allow visitors to stroll through the area.

This provides a unique opportunity to observe turtles, alligators, and various bird species, especially during migration seasons.

Alternatively you may also visit Middleton Place and Mcleod Plantation if you are staying a little longer in Charleston.

Evening under the porch

For dinner, we highly recommend The Southbound on Cannon Street, where you can experience refined dishes unwinding in a traditional Southern house.

This upscale restaurant offers a cozy indoor bar, perfect for enjoying a crafted cocktail before or after your meal, and a beautiful wooden patio that provides a serene, charming setting for dining al fresco.

Day 3: Bowen Island, Folly Beach and Dolphin Tour

Take a break from history to enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery, its a kids'/teens' favourite! Exploring the Lowcountry region of South Carolina is like stepping into another world, with its secluded islands and winding coastal waterways.

This area boasts a unique biodiversity, where you can witness a range of wildlife and enjoy the serene beauty of the land and sea.

Morning in the Salt Marsh

Join a Dolphin Tour on Bowen island

If you are planning to visit South Carolina's coast, a dolphin tour is a must-do activity. The salt marshes and tidal creeks in the region are home to a high population of bottlenose dolphins, and there is a great chance to spot these playful creatures in their natural habitat.

Alternatively you may want to try the kayaking adventure tour to experience a more immersive epxerience.

Afternoon relaxing at the beach

Head to Folly Beach

It's just a short drive from Charleston, to enjoy a relaxing afternoon on the sand.

Evening dinner overlooking the marsh & creeks

Make your way to Bowens Island. After a day at the beach, enjoy dinner at Bowens island restaurant overlooking the salt marsh and known for their seafood and laid-back atmosphere. Its a locals' favorite and just a great spot to enjoy the best sunset views.

Day 4: The Battery, Waterfront, and Fort Sumter

Wrap up your Charleston trip with a visit to one of its most iconic areas depending on your return plans.

Morning walk at the Battery

Visit the Battery, a historic promenade with cannons and stately mansions, perfect for a morning walk.

Charleston museum: Founded in 1773 and commonly regarded as “America’s First Museum. Exhibits highlight the Native Americans who first inhabited the Lowcountry and enslaved African Americans who played a significant role in the area’s agricultural growth. Young visitors can check out the kids’ area and family friendly activities.  

Afternoon boat trip to Fort Sumter

If time permits, take a boat trip to Fort Sumter, where you can learn about its critical role in the American Civil War. You can catch a ferry to the Fort Sumter National Monument for a guided tour.

Evening:

End your trip with a final dinner at Chez Nous, a fine dining experience that captures the essence of Charleston's culinary tradition in an intimate setting. Kids are welcome!

Final Thoughts: Why Charleston Should Be on Your Travel List

As you finish reading the post, It might seem all obvious of why you should consider visiting charleston. From its rich history and stunning architecture to its world-class cuisine and Southern hospitality, our time in Charleston was truly unforgettable.

We will remember the kindness of the people and have gained a deep understanding of American history, especially the poignant moments that shaped the city’s past.

The Lowcountry landscape and visits to the plantations added a unique layer to our experience, showcasing the beauty and complexity of the region. Time for you to go!

Enjoy your visit and feel free to share your own experience in the comment section of this blog. Cheers!

Useful links

• Historical tours:

  • Aiken Rhett & Nathaniel Russel House combo tickets: https://www.historiccharleston.org/house-museums

  • Edmondston Alston House: https://www.edmondstonalston.org/

  • Boone Hall Plantation tour: https://www.viator.com/tours/Charleston/Boone-Hall-Plantation-Tour-with-Transportation/d4384-48614P2

  • Magnolia Plantation tour: https://www.adventuresightseeing.com/tours/magnolia-plantation-tours/

  • Fort Sumter: https://www.fortsumtertours.com/

    
    

• Eco adventure tour: https://www.charlestonoutdooradventures.com/trip-info/

  
  

• Restaurants: They are usually in high demand and we had to book a table to make sure to save a spot! There are many more options in town, but the ones we've listed here are the ones we tried.

  • Southern cuisine: https://www.southboundchs.com/ ;

  • Fine dining: https://eatatfig.com/ ;

  • French fusion: https://www.cheznouschs.com/ ;

  • Seafood restaurant: https://bowensisland.com/

    
    

• Accomodations:

  • The Charlestonian (perfect for families): https://the-ian.allcharlestonhotels.com/en/

  • The Pinch: https://www.thepinch.com/

  • 86 Cannon: https://www.86cannon.com/

Additional Tips:

• Transportation: Charleston is a walkable city, but for longer distances, consider using taxis, trolleys, or renting a bike. We've rented a car on www.expedia.com to design our own trip and extend visits to the beach and the plantations.

• Weather: We visited early October at the end of the rainy season.

• Sightseeing: For popular attractions like Fort Sumter and dolphin tours, make sure to book tickets in advance.