Charleston, South Carolina is the perfect mix of relaxing vacation and party vibes vacation. It blends laid-back Southern charm with lively nightlife, making it an ideal getaway. 

With colorful architecture, boutique shopping, top-tier dining, and harbor-view rooftops, Charleston is effortlessly charming at every turn!

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Where to Stay: Andrew Pickney Inn (French Quarter) 
Hotel Highlights:

• Daily wine and cheese happy hour with sweeping city and harbor views.
• An elevated continental breakfast featuring pastries, hot selections, yogurt, bagels, and a full coffee station, which is far beyond the usual breakfast basics.

Day 1: Arrival & First Night Out

Arrive in Charleston, SC!

Lunch at The Palmetto Cafe, a restaurant in The Charleston Place, a luxury hotel surrounded by high-end designer shops.

Stroll down Meeting Street and check out some of the local shopping. The streets are filled with all local boutiques and shops as well as some big name stores. 

Dinner at Iron Rose

Have a drink and enjoy the dueling pianos at John King’s Dueling Piano Bar. (No food served here )

• While the space itself is a bit rough around the edges, the high-energy atmosphere and sing-along piano performances make it a memorable and fun stop.

Day 2: Brunch, Beach & Nightlife

Brunch at 82 Queen – Request outdoor seating in their stunning courtyard.

Day trip to Folly Island for a scenic marsh boat cruise. (Outer Banks fans will love this!)

• Book tickets with Charleston Outdoor Adventures on Viator: linked here
• Learn the history, see dolphins, the Morris Island Lighthouse

Have dinner on Folly Island at Taco Boy for delicious, casual bites and a great atmosphere.

Nightcap at Henry’s On The Market, featuring multiple levels and a rooftop bar.

Day 3: Iconic Charleston Sights  

Quick breakfast at  Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit in City Market

Walk to The Battery to take in Charleston’s historical waterfront – stop by the Pineapple Fountain, spot dolphins in the harbor, and enjoy the surrounding park.

Visit Rainbow Row – Rainbow Row is simply a row of houses that are painted with vibrant, beautiful colors resembling a pastel rainbow. This is an iconic spot to visit as a tourist in Charleston and definitely worth seeing!

Lunch at Vendue Rooftop, which has a great view of the harbor. Rosé on the roof is definitely the way to go. 

If there is one thing you take away from this it should be this: take a sunset harbor tour. You get incredible views of the city, a ride past Fort Sumter National Monument, and will enjoy the prettiest sunset you’ll ever see. Book yours via Viator today by clicking here!

Dinner at Bourbon and Bubbles, known for its bourbon, champagne (bubbles), and standout cuisine. This was the best meal I had in Charleston!

Day 4: Farewell Charleston

Coffee and a quick bite at Clerk’s Coffee. 

Souvenir shopping at City Market: a Charleston must.

Lunch at Magnolia’s for classic lowcountry fare.

Farewell drinks at Élevé Rooftop, a bright and colorful space perfect for ending the trip with sunshine and a glass of wine.

For a more detailed adventure on Charleston, South Carolina, check out my travel story: 4 Incredible Days in Charleston!

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