Charleston in Comfort: A Small Group City Tour

Charleston , United States

Charleston in Comfort: A Small Group City Tour

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(19 reviews)

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

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About this experience

Experience Charleston on a relaxed 1.5-hour small-group city tour designed for comfort and storytelling. Tours are limited to just 12 guests, offering a more personal experience than the large tour buses commonly seen around the city.

Travel through Charleston’s most iconic neighborhoods with a knowledgeable local guide who brings the city’s history to life. See Rainbow Row, the waterfront mansions along The Battery, the oak-lined streets of South of Broad, the French Quarter, historic churches, cobblestone alleys, and the College of Charleston campus. You will also pass the Four Corners of Law, one of the city’s most significant landmarks.

Routes and sites visited may vary daily due to traffic, weather, or special events. This tour is ideal for first-time visitors, couples, and travelers seeking a smooth, informative overview of Charleston in a smaller group setting.

Available options

Charleston in Comfort: A Small Group City Tour

What's included

Professional tour guide/driver

All taxes and fees

True small-group experience

Climate controlled transportation

Charleston sightseeing tour in a luxurious Sprinter van

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Charleston's oldest church. It is incredibly historic and beautiful.

Stop 2 Pass by

The market is one of Charleston's most popular destinations. It was a former meat and farmers market. It is now a hotspot for shopping and tourism. It is filled with shops, restaurants, bars and sweetgrass baskets.

Stop 3 Pass by

Rainbow Row is one of the most picturesque places in the entire city. It is a row of houses that are painted in beautiful pastel colors in the charming neighborhood known as South of Broad.

Stop 4 Pass by

Saint Philip's Church is Charleston's oldest congregation and most recognized church building. With a plethora of history and architectural beauty it truly stands out.

Stop 5 Pass by

Charleston's most beautiful public park. The battery is a former defense for Charleston during the Civil War. It is now a memorial park and the former location of pirate executions.

Stop 6 Pass by

The only waterfront house museum in Charleston. This iconic and historic house is situated near the sea wall and overlooks the Charleston harbor.

The college of Charleston is one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in America dating back to 1770. The campus is historic and aesthetically pleasing.

What's not included

Gratuities

Food or drinks

Custom pick-ups

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

13 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

6 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The tour departs from the Charleston Visitors Center at 375 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29464. Boarding starts at 12:15pm on the bus shed side of the Charleston Visitors Center. There is paid parking on site.

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