Are you searching for where to stay In Charleston but do not know where to start? Well, you have come to the right place because when you are done reading this post you will feel just like a local.
There is so much to do and see in Charleston that you could spend anywhere from a weekend to a whole week exploring.
Planning your trip to Charleston last minute?
Make sure to book your hotels and tours in Charleston in advance to ensure availability! The longer you wait, the more difficult it gets. Here are our top picks for your trip:
Top Tours And Experiences In Charleston:
- Charleston: Fort Sumter Entry Ticket and Ferry Ride (Our pick!!)
- Historical Walking Tour (Great way to see the city)
- Historic Harbor Cruise (Can choose sunset or daytime!)
- City Highlights Guided Bus Tour (Relaxing tour)
Top picks for places to stay in Charleston:
- Francis Marion Hotel (Amazing historic district location)
- Hyatt Place Charleston Historic District (Affordable)
- Hotel Emeline (Upscale and chic)
- Market Pavilion Hotel (4 star Downtown location)
If you did not already know, six different neighborhoods make up this wonderful southern city in South Carolina. You are going to fall in love with the beautiful palm trees that line the streets.
And when you are exploring downtown where you will find the luxury and iconic colorful townhouses that might make you want to move there. The six neighborhoods all have their own charm and where to stay in Charleston really comes down to your budget and what your plans are while you are in town.
Understanding Charleston Areas And Neighborhoods
Before you can decide on what is the best neighborhood to stay in Charleston you will first need to understand all the different areas. The most popular is of course downtown and this is where you will find the main attractions. For all the best shopping, nightlife, and beautiful historic buildings you want to head out to King Street. The French Quarter is another part of downtown and this is where you will find historic churches and museums.
There is plenty to do if you stay in North Charleston, another wonderful neighborhood, it’s conveniently located near the airport and also has cheaper Charleston accommodations. You will need a car or some type of public transport if you decide to stay in North Charleston. Next up is the Isle of Palm and this is where you will find all the amazing beaches scattered across the beautiful barrier island. There are plenty of places to stay here and it has a much more relaxing vibe than the hustle and bustle of downtown.
Next up is Mount Pleasant and this is where to stay in Charleston with kids. Here you will find a lovely old town, plenty of waterside hotels, parks, and playgrounds for your children. Last but not least is North Morrison or NOMO which is an up-and-coming part of Charleston that is perfect for foodies and people looking for craft beer breweries.
French Quarter Charleston Is Where To Stay For First Timers
The French Quarter is a part of downtown and is one of the best places to stay in Charleston. It may be the most expensive part of the city to stay in but you are going to have the true Charleston experience here. When exploring the French Quarter you are going to find colorful townhouses, cobblestone streets, and historic buildings on every corner. There is no need to rent a car because you can easily get everywhere on foot or by bicycle. There are plenty of gorgeous rooftop bars where you can watch the sun go down and so many restaurants to choose from. This is the best place to stay in Charlestown if you are coming to the city for the first time.
Best Places To Stay In French Quarter Charleston
The Vendue
The Vendue is in the best area to stay in Charleston. You are going to love staying in the renovated townhouse that dates back to the 1700s. Every morning they invite you to enjoy the complimentary coffee and pastries on the rooftop bar and in the evening they provide a free turn-down service with milk and cookies.
If you have an eye for art this is one of the places to stay in Charleston because they always have an art display and every afternoon they put on a daily art reception with wine and canapés. There are also free bikes for hire and walking tours to enjoy at the Vendue.
Check rates here: Booking.com
French Quarter Inn
Treat yourself to a stay at the French Quarter Inn. They have so many small touches here to make your vacation memorable from welcoming champagne when you check in to the gourmet breakfast buffet you are going to love every minute. They also have a port wine and cheese reception every day as well as milk and cookies at night.
The French Quarter Inn is decorated with vintage and southern touches throughout. You will be just steps away from the best shopping and eating on King Street. The South Carolina Aquarium is Liberty Square are both within walking distance making this one of the best places to stay in Charleston SC.
Check rates here: Booking.com
The Spectator Hotel
Up next for the French Quarter is The Spectator Hotel. Here you are going to love your stay because they have thought of everything you will ever need plus they are in a perfect location for exploring the city. They have an in-house bar that is styled as a speakeasy and serves prohibition-style cocktails.
When staying here you will get personalized butler services that include everything from unpacking to shining your shoes if you wish. They also offer free breakfast and when booking is sure to ask for a room with a city view you will not regret it.
Check rates here: Booking.com
North Charleston Is The Best Place To Stay On A Budget
Up next is North Charleston and it is the best neighborhood to stay in Charleston if you are looking to stay within your budget. The vibe in North Charleston is much more laid back and here you will find the North Charleston Coliseum which is always putting on amazing live shows. The airport is only a few miles away and you will find yourself close to the interstate which is always good when traveling. One of the best things about staying here is that you will be close to the outlet malls and plenty of parks as well. If you are looking to relax and enjoy some quiet time on your vacation then this is where you should stay in Charleston.
Best Hotels in North Charleston
Hyatt Place
At Hyatt Place in North Charleston, you are going to feel right at home. Here they have plenty of room types and so you are sure to find something to fit your party needs. They serve daily breakfast and have a bakery cafe on site where you can purchase grab-and-go meals throughout the day.
If you are looking for lodging in Charleston near the airport then Hyatt Place is perfect because they are a short 12-minute drive away. Pets are always welcome here as well so you can pack up the whole family and head out on your vacation.
Check rates here: Booking.com
DoubleTree Hotel & Suites
DoubleTree Hotel & Suites is one of the best hotels in Charleston. When you pull up you are going to see the beautifully landscaped lawns with palm trees lining the grounds. They have thought of everything for your trip including a free airport shuttle.
During the day you can enjoy swimming in the outdoor pool, have a drink at the bar, or head over to the onsite restaurant Two Wrights. There are all types of rooms from family rooms with bunk beds to king suites perfect for two.
Check rates here: Booking.com
Wingate by Wyndham Charleston Coliseum
Wingate by Wyndham Charleston Coliseum has everything you need for budget lodging in Charleston. You can start your morning off right with a free breakfast before heading out to see the sites. You will be in the best part of Charleston to stay if you are looking to save a few bucks and if you do mind renting a car.
There is free parking on site and plenty of site seeing nearby as well. You will be close to many museums and Civil War grounds. Plus, they have a pool that you will love during the hot summer months in South Carolina.
Check rates here: Booking.com
Isle Of Palm Is the Where To Stay For Beaches
If you are looking to spend your time strolling along the white sandy beaches then the Isle of Palm is the best neighborhood to stay in Charleston for you. Plus you will only be about 8 miles from the historic downtown but you will feel like you are in a whole different world. There is also the Sullivans beach community nearby. If you cross over the Isle of Palms Connector Bridge you will have plenty of options for nightlife and dining. The Isle of Palm is definitely recommended as the best area to stay in Charleston for a nice, calm, and relaxing beachside vacation.
Best Hotels in the Isle of Palm
Wild Dunes Resort – Sweetgrass Inn and Boardwalk Inn
Wild Dunes Resort – Sweetgrass Inn and Boardwalk Inn is a beautiful resort where you will be a short 5-minute walk away from the beaches. Here you can choose between a room in the hotel or renting out an entire villa. With either booking, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoor swimming pool and there are also two championship golf courses on-site.
If you are looking for one of the best places to stay in Charleston for a relaxing out-of-the-city experience you will find it here at the Wild Dunes Resort. Plus, you will only be a short 25 minutes away from the historic downtown making it so easy to go for a day trip.
Check rates here: Booking.com
Seaside Inn – Isle of Palms
Look no further because The Seaside Inn is the best place to stay in Charleston with a beach view from your room. Wake up and enjoy a short 1-minute walk down to the shore. Here they also have a lovely swimming pool, and rooftop deck, and some rooms even have beach access.
You will be just steps away from plenty of dining options and the marina is less than 4 miles away. All rooms come with a coffee/tea maker, microwave, and mini fridge. You are going to love the time you spend in the Isle of Palms it is one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Charleston SC.
Check rates here: Booking.com
Downtown Charleston Is The Best Charleston Area For Nightlife
If you are looking for where to stay in Charleston for the best nightlife then Downtown is where you need to be. Head out to King Street to find all the best bars, clubs, and breweries. You can find places to see a live show or find somewhere to dance until the early hours of the morning. Something else that you will find only in Charleston is the many speakeasies and rooftop bars. If you are interested in seeing live music then the Music Farm is where you should head to first, they are always having amazing local bands. Whatever you are in the mood for you going to find something fun to do on your night out Downtown because it is the best area to stay in Charleston for nightlife.
Best Places to Stay in Charleston for Nightlife
The Pinch Charleston
The Pinch Charleston is one of the cutest places to stay in downtown Charleston. Here you will be right in the heart of the city and they give you free bikes to explore. You will be so close to Marion Square where there are plenty of options for shopping and restaurants.
Other attractions close to the hotel include the South Carolina Aquarium, the Marina, and the ferry that takes you over to Fort Sumter. You relax on their terrace, inside their lobby, or inside your cozy room. Some of the suites even have full kitchens and minibars.
Check rates here: Booking.com
Andrew Pinckney Inn
At the Andrew Pinckney Inn, you are going to love waking up every day and having your complimentary breakfast on their beautiful rooftop terrace. The Charleston City Market is just a few steps away from where you are going to love shopping around. There is also Washington Square and Waterfront Park just a short distance away.
The Andrew Pinckney Inn is one of the best places to stay in downtown Charleston for nightlife because King Street is only steps away. The hotel Inn was first built back in the 1840s and you will love the decor and the special touches they have put in throughout the years.
Check rates here: Booking.com
Hotel Emeline
At Hotel Emeline you are going to feel right at home. Here they have so many different room types that you are sure to find something to perfectly fit your needs. So be ready to cozy up in the fluffy robes that they provide or grab a drink and relax outside under the twinkling lights on the patio.
On-site, you will find free bicycles and an in-house restaurant and bar. Plus, Hotel Emeline is so close to all the best attractions making them Where to stay In Charleston South Caroline if you are looking for a luxurious fun-filled vacation.
Check rates here: Booking.com
Mount Pleasant Is The Best Area In Charleston For Families
Mount Pleasant is the best neighborhood to stay in Charleston if you are bringing the whole family with you. Straight across from Downtown Charlestown separated by the Copper River is the suburban Mount Pleasant. All you will need to do is take the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge and you will be in the heart of the city. But there is plenty to do in Mount Pleasant including a super cute old town where you find a lovely mix of trendy shops and more historic houses. There are also places to stay in Charleston with dreamy waterfront and downtown views here. The hotel and rental prices will be much less here than Downtown.
Best places to stay in Mount Pleasant SC
Hotel Indigo Charleston – Mount Pleasant
You and your family would never have to Hotel Indigo Charleston – Mount Pleasant if you didn’t want to. Here you can find a restaurant in-house or relax by the outdoor pool and order from the pool bar. They also have plenty of bbq grills available if you wanted to cook up your own lunch or dinner.
Just minutes away you can shop at the wonderful Tanger Outlet Mall or go explore Mt. the Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park. They have six different room types to book and they also have handicap-accessible rooms and are pet friendly so you can pack up the whole family and be on your way to one of the best hotels in Charleston.
Check rates here: Booking.com
Harborside at Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina
At Harborside at Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina, you are going to feel like royalty with your own private pool and beach. If you are looking for where to stay in Charleston with kids then this is the place for you because they have a kid’s club on site. They can enjoy doing crafts, watching movies, and sports activities while you can enjoy some alone time.
There are walking trails along the water less than a mile away from the resort. The onsite restaurant, Fish House, has amazing views of the Charleston skyline and the marina. There is also a bar called the Bridge Bar where you can enjoy yummy drinks down by the water.
Check rates here: Booking.com
NOMO/North Morrison: The Best Area for Foodies
North Morrison is Charlestons up and coming community that was first established back in the 1990s. Since then both the locals and visitors alike have been flocking to NOMO for the amazing food scene. This neighborhood was once known as “The Neck” because it is located on the peninsula of Charleston. Some of the best local eats can be found at Lewis Barbecue and the Butcher and the Bee. There are also so many breweries popping up all over town and a few of the most popular ones are the Copper River Brewing Company, Revelry Brewery, and the Tradesmen Brewery. You are going to love staying in the new and trendy neighborhood it is one of the best areas to stay in Charleston.
Where to Stay in NOMO Charleston
The Oyster Suite at Morrison Manor
The Oyster Suite at Morrison Manor is a beautiful vacation home in one of the best areas to stay in Charleston. Here you will have a private home to yourself in one of the coolest neighborhoods. It can sleep up to five people and has two separate bedrooms, a full kitchen, and two bathrooms.
You will be close to Cannon Park, the Charleston Museum, and The Charleston City Marina. Plus Downtown is just a short drive away. You are going to love staying here in NOMO because it is the best neighborhood to stay in Charleston for a more relaxing and laid-back type of vacation.
Check rates here: Booking.com
Hagood Haven with Private Pool
Hagood Haven with Private Pool is one the best places to stay in Charleston if you have a large group. Here you will have a private house with four bedrooms, a private patio, an outdoor pool, and a fully equipped kitchen. There is also a game table where you can play ping pong or relax in the sitting area with cable TV and free wifi.
Everything is newly remolded with a light and bright theme with tiled bathrooms and decorative tiles in the kitchen. Plus you will be in NOMO which is one of the best areas to stay in Charleston for young people.
Check rates here: Booking.com
Where to Stay in Nashville: Best Hotels and Areas