Hotels in Charleston

French Quarter puts guests steps from Rainbow Row and Waterfront Park; South of Broad suits a quieter stay near antebellum mansions; Upper King Street works for restaurants and boutique shopping. Most visitors stay two to three nights; Charleston International Airport is about 20 minutes from downtown by car.

Where to Stay

The French Quarter clusters around cobblestone lanes near the City Market, walkable to horse-drawn carriage tours and the Battery. South of Broad holds single houses and piazzas dating to the 1700s and 1800s, a short walk south of Broad Street. Upper King Street has newer boutique properties near restaurants like Husk and shops between Calhoun and Spring Streets, a 10-minute walk to the historic core.

Getting Around

Downtown Charleston is flat and compact, roughly 1.5 miles from the Battery to Marion Square. The free DASH trolley (branded lowercase here per style) connects the peninsula's main hotel clusters. Ride-share and parking garages serve visitors heading to Folly Beach or the Angel Oak on Johns Island, both under 30 minutes by car.

Practical Tips

• Best season: March through May and October bring milder temperatures than the humid summer months.
• Parking: Reserve a garage spot in advance near Market Street on weekends.
• Day trips: Fort Sumter tours depart from Liberty Square by ferry.
• Pack: Bring comfortable shoes for cobblestone streets in the historic district.