Charleston’s guided tours showcase the best of this historic Southern city. Walking tours through the Historic District excel at bringing Colonial and Civil War stories to life, with guides who know their stuff and keep things engaging. After dark, atmospheric ghost tours through centuries-old graveyards and taverns deliver genuine chills while mixing in real history. For a change of pace, small-group kayak tours along the harbor offer close-up views of dolphins and shore birds.
I especially love the 2-hour Historic Charleston walks – they hit all the key sites without rushing, and guides share fascinating insider stories you won’t find in guidebooks. The sunset harbor tours are another favorite, combining nature with excellent photo opportunities.
Let’s explore our top-rated Charleston tours that deliver the most memorable experiences.
Key Points
- Charleston offers a wide range of highly recommended guided tours, including historical, culinary, and scenic experiences, with advance booking recommended for popular tours.
- The Highlights of Charleston Guided Walking Tour and the Historic Charleston Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour are among the top-rated tours, with 99% and 98% recommendation rates, respectively.
- Specialized historical tours, such as the Women in History Tour and the Citadel History Professor tour, provide unique insights into Charleston’s past.
- Ghost and haunting tours, like the Charleston: Guided Pub Crawl and Haunted History Tour and the Real Hauntings Tour, offer spooky and immersive experiences.
- Scenic tours, such as the Sunset Social Harbor Cruise and the Middleton Place Plantation Tour, provide opportunities to explore Charleston’s natural beauty and historic sites.
Highlights of Charleston Guided Walking Tour
As one of the most highly-rated guided tours in Charleston, the Highlights of Charleston Guided Walking Tour offers visitors a comprehensive introduction to the city’s rich history and captivating sights.
With an impressive 99% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this 2-hour walking tour takes guests through the French Quarter and South of Broad neighborhoods.
Along the way, knowledgeable guides share Charleston’s fascinating history and lore, highlighting key landmarks like Rainbow Row, the Old Slave Mart Museum, and the Old Exchange.
Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ passion, extensive knowledge, and ability to provide engaging, educational experiences.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly, making it a great option for families.
With a maximum group size of 20 travelers, participants can expect a personalized and immersive exploration of Charleston’s iconic sights and rich cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Highlights of Charleston Guided Walking Tour Review
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Charleston: Guided Pub Crawl and Haunted History Tour
For those seeking a more lively and immersive exploration of Charleston’s past, the Charleston: Guided Pub Crawl and Haunted History Tour offers a captivating alternative. This 2-hour guided experience takes participants on a journey through the city’s rich history, from its role in the Civil War and Prohibition to its piracy legacy.
Along the way, visitors will encounter local legends and ghost stories while stopping at various pubs, including The Griffon, Bar Vaute, Blind Tiger Pub, and Tommy Condons Irish Pub.
The tour provides an opportunity to trade stories over drinks and engage with Charleston’s vibrant local culture. While not suitable for those under 21, the tour is wheelchair accessible and features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
With an overall rating of 3.3/5 based on 30 reviews, the tour offers a unique blend of historical insights and social experiences, despite some weather-related challenges noted by participants.
Those interested can reserve their spot and pay later, ensuring a flexible and memorable exploration of Charleston’s storied past.
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Historic Charleston Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour
The Historic Charleston Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour provides an immersive exploration of the city’s rich history and iconic landmarks.
With a 98% traveler recommendation and over 5,000 reviews, this 2-hour tour is a must-do for visitors.
Led by professional and licensed local guides, the tour takes participants through the historic district and French Quarter, highlighting key sites like Charleston City Hall, the Dock Street Theatre, and the famous Rainbow Row.
Guests can expect engaging commentary on the city’s architecture and the events that have shaped its past.
The tour includes admission to the Powder Magazine Museum, allowing for a deeper dive into Charleston’s history.
Comfortable walking shoes and a water bottle are recommended, as the tour operates rain or shine.
With a maximum group size of 20, the experience offers a personalized and informative journey through one of the South’s most charming cities.
Read our full review: Historic Charleston Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour Review
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Charleston: History and Architecture Guided Walking Tour
Enjoy Charleston’s captivating history and stunning architecture on this 1.5-hour walking tour.
Led by an expert guide, you’ll discover the city’s hidden alleys, landmark buildings, and centuries-old homes adorned with intricate ironwork. Highlights include the iconic Rainbow Row, the bustling City Market, and the majestic St. Philip’s Church.
Throughout the tour, your guide will share fascinating insights into Charleston’s rich past, from its colonial roots to its role in the American Revolution.
With frequent stops and a leisurely pace, you’ll have ample opportunity to soak in the city’s charm.
And with the tour being wheelchair accessible and offered in English, it’s an ideal experience for visitors of all backgrounds.
Priced at just Kč 602 per person, this tour offers incredible value.
Plus, you can book now and pay later, and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Don’t miss this chance to uncover the history and architecture that make Charleston so captivating.
Read our full review: Charleston: History and Architecture Guided Walking Tour Review
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2-Hour Guided Kayak Eco Tour in Charleston
Although the Charleston landscape is renowned for its rich history and architectural splendor, visitors can also enjoy the area’s natural wonders on this 2-hour guided kayak eco-tour.
Accommodating up to 12 participants, this easy to intermediate-level kayaking experience allows guests to observe a variety of wildlife, including loggerhead turtles, bottlenose dolphins, and assorted waterfowl.
Equipped with kayaks, paddles, and personal flotation devices, along with a dry bag for personal belongings, you will be led by a knowledgeable guide through the serene waterways.
Reviewers consistently praise the tour’s engaging guides and the rewarding wildlife sightings, particularly the encounters with playful dolphins.
Priced at $54 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this eco-tour offers a relaxing and informative way to connect with Charleston’s natural environment, appealing to both beginners and nature enthusiasts alike.
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Drayton Hall: Interpreter Guided Tour, Charleston, SC
Nestled within Charleston’s rich historical landscape, Drayton Hall offers visitors an immersive interpreter-guided tour through one of America’s oldest preserved plantation houses. Founded in 1738, this iconic estate showcases the nation’s earliest example of fully executed Palladian architecture.
The 1-hour guided tour grants access to the historic grounds, galleries, and an 18th-century African-American cemetery – an active archaeological site. Guests can also explore the property’s self-guided audio landscape tour.
While the tour guide’s knowledge is praised, some feedback suggests a need for better balance in highlighting both the Drayton dynasty’s life and the slave community’s experiences.
Priced at $32 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay-later booking option. Accessibility is provided through exhibits, the garden, and museum shop, though personal wheelchairs and scooters are prohibited on the house tour due to the unpaved paths.
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Charleston Ghosts of Liberty Guided Walking Tour
The Charleston Ghosts of Liberty Guided Walking Tour offers visitors a captivating exploration of the city’s haunted past. This 90-minute tour takes guests to eerie locations, including the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon, while sharing lesser-known historical tales and ghost stories.
With a 4.6 rating from 447 reviews, the tour is a popular choice for both adults and families visiting Charleston. The knowledgeable guides, such as Michael, Marina, Ethan, and Seth, are praised for their engaging storytelling and informative presentations.
Guests can expect a mix of history and supernatural elements, providing an enjoyable and educational experience. However, some visitors have reported issues with large group sizes, soft-spoken guides, and a lack of historical depth.
The tour departs from the Concord Street & Vendue Range area and is wheelchair and stroller accessible. While free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, a few customers have noted unresponsive customer service and dissatisfaction with the overall experience.
Nevertheless, the Charleston Ghosts of Liberty Guided Walking Tour remains a highly recommended activity for those seeking to uncover the city’s haunting past.
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Charleston: Pirates and Ghosts Guided Walking Tour
Charleston’s “Pirates and Ghosts Guided Walking Tour” takes visitors on a captivating 2-hour exploration of the city’s haunting past. Priced at $35 per person, the tour covers approximately 1 mile of historic streets and alleys, offering glimpses of Charleston’s harbor, landmark buildings, and old pirate bars.
Guests will listen to stories of notorious figures like Blackbeard and Gentleman pirates, as well as eerie tales of ghostly encounters. Notable stops include the Pineapple Fountain, the Pink House, and the Old City Jail.
While not suitable for those with mobility issues, the tour provides an engaging way to discover Charleston’s spooky history.
With an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 9 reviews, the tour has received mixed feedback, with some comparing it unfavorably to similar experiences in other cities.
Nonetheless, it remains a popular choice for those seeking a glimpse into Charleston’s dark and mysterious past.
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Charleston History, Homes, and Architecture Guided Walking Tour
Ideal for history enthusiasts and architecture buffs, the Charleston History, Homes, and Architecture Guided Walking Tour offers an immersive exploration of the city’s storied past.
Over the course of two hours, visitors will discover Charleston’s Historic District, including the charming French Quarter and the prestigious South of Broad neighborhood. Along the way, a licensed local guide will share insights into the city’s pivotal role in American history, bringing the past to life through tales of its landmarks.
Highlights include visiting Rainbow Row, White Point Garden, St. Michael’s Church, and the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon. The tour also includes admission to the Powder Magazine Museum.
With a maximum group size of 20, the experience encourages interaction and allows travelers to ask questions. Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable and engaging guides, who make history come alive.
Whether you’re seeking an informative introduction or an in-depth look at Charleston’s architectural gems, this tour delivers an exceptional experience.
Read our full review: Charleston History, Homes, and Architecture Guided Walking Tour Review
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Charleston: Real Hauntings of Charleston Guided Tour
Curious to explore Charleston’s haunted past? The “Charleston: Real Hauntings of Charleston Guided Tour” offers an intimate, 1.5-hour experience for up to 12 participants.
Led by a city-licensed professional, this tour takes visitors through the city’s most haunted graveyards, churches, and alleyways, sharing real stories of ghosts, murders, pirates, and executions.
Highlights include stops at the St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, Four Corners of Law, Circular Congregational Church, Powder Magazine, and St. Philips Church.
Along the way, participants can use EMF detectors for an interactive experience and capture potential spirits on camera. The tour also delves into Charleston’s pirate history, providing valuable insights.
Priced at £28.34 per person, this wheelchair-accessible tour is an engaging blend of spooky and historical elements.
Travelers praise the enthusiastic guide’s storytelling and recommend the tour for a unique Charleston experience.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the “Charleston: Real Hauntings of Charleston Guided Tour” is a must-try for those seeking a spine-tingling adventure.
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Historic Women of Charleston Guided Walking Tour
Although Charleston is renowned for its rich history, the Historic Women of Charleston Guided Walking Tour shines a spotlight on the often-overlooked contributions of the city’s influential female figures.
Led by the passionate and knowledgeable guide Jonathan Green, this 2-hour tour takes travelers on a journey through significant locations that played a role in the lives of Charleston’s trailblazing women.
Participants will visit sites like the Pink House Gallery and Rainbow Row, learning about the impact these women had on the city’s development and overcoming adversity.
The tour’s afternoon timing allows for evening plans, making it an ideal activity for history enthusiasts and feminists alike.
With a maximum group size of 20, the tour offers an engaging and inclusive atmosphere, complete with fascinating insights and lesser-known historical facts.
Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars based on reviews, the Historic Women of Charleston Guided Walking Tour is a must-do for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the city’s rich history and the remarkable women who shaped it.
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Charleston: Local History Guided Walking Tour
For those seeking a deeper dive into Charleston’s storied past, the Charleston: Old Walled City Historical Walking Tour offers an immersive journey through the city’s colonial roots and evolution.
Priced at $30.74 per person, the 2-hour English-language tour takes visitors on a guided walk through the historic district, with highlights including the Dock Street Theatre, Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, and the iconic Rainbow Row.
Led by a 7th-generation Charlestonian, the tour provides insights into the city’s colonial heritage, natural disasters, and ongoing transformation.
With a 4.8/5 overall rating based on 681 reviews, the tour earns high marks for its engaging guide, value for money, and fascinating architectural and historical commentary.
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and water are recommended, as the tour involves substantial walking.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Charleston native, this guided experience offers a unique window into the city’s captivating past.
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Dark Side of Charleston Guided Night-Time Walking Tour
Those seeking a unique, after-dark exploration of Charleston’s seedy past can embark on the Dark Side of Charleston Guided Night-Time Walking Tour.
This 90-minute evening walking tour delves into the notorious history of the city, focusing on brothels, scandals, criminals, and debauchery. Led by professional guides renowned for their knowledge, storytelling, and humor, the tour takes participants to locations associated with Charleston’s darker side.
Designed for mature audiences aged 18 and above, the tour operates in all weather conditions and covers a leisurely pace suitable for most travelers.
With a maximum of 20 participants and a minimum of 4 required to run, the tour offers a unique opportunity to uncover the less-discussed aspects of Charleston’s history.
While some guests have noted the tour’s focus on adult themes, the overall feedback highlights the educational and entertaining nature of the experience.
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Charleston: Citadel History Professor Guided Walking Tour
This 3-hour Charleston: Citadel History Professor Guided Walking Tour provides an in-depth exploration of the city’s colonial history and architectural highlights.
Led by Eric, a Ph.D. in History with nearly 20 years of experience, the tour covers must-see sites like the Dock Street Theater, French Huguenot Church, and Washington Park.
Priced at $40 per person, this small-group experience (max 12 participants) delivers an intimate and engaging learning experience.
Eric’s teaching style is praised for its depth of knowledge, passion, and ability to make history come alive through captivating stories. Participants appreciate gaining insights beyond basic facts, learning about the city’s development from 1670 to the present.
With a 5/5 rating based on 77 reviews, this tour is a top pick for visitors seeking an immersive Charleston history lesson.
Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as the tour operates rain or shine. Unfortunately, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.
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Charleston Ghost & Graveyard Night-Time Guided Walking Tour
Although Charleston’s haunted history is well-known, the Charleston Ghost & Graveyard Night-Time Guided Walking Tour offers visitors an immersive experience to explore the city’s spookier side.
This highly-rated tour, with a 4.4 overall rating from over 1,000 reviews, takes guests on a leisurely nighttime stroll through Charleston’s Historic District, revealing the origins of eerie phrases and tales of graveyard hauntings.
With a badge of excellence and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the tour is accessible to groups of up to 20 travelers, with a minimum of 4 participants required.
Guides, praised for their knowledge and storytelling skills, lead visitors to spooky sites, including the oldest cemetery after hours.
While some guests found the tours more historical than ghostly, many appreciated the blend of history and spooky tales.
Recommendations include adapting the tours to avoid distractions, but overall, the tour receives positive sentiment, with many guests willing to recommend it and consider participating again.
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Charleston: Historic City Highlights Guided Bus Tour
The Charleston: Historic City Highlights Guided Bus Tour offers visitors a rundown of the city’s most iconic sights and historic landmarks. Priced from $37.10 per person, this 1.5-hour tour departs every 30 minutes starting at 9:30 AM, with a flexible cancellation policy allowing free cancellation up to 2 hours in advance.
Guests will have the opportunity to see over 100 points of interest, including the Battery Sea Wall, Rainbow Row, and the Old Market Area. The knowledgeable local guide provides insightful stories and anecdotes as the group travels in a climate-controlled shuttle.
With an impressive 4.6/5 rating based on 667 reviews, the tour receives high praise for the guide’s expertise, comfortable transportation, and overall organization.
Whether first-time visitors or Charleston locals, this guided bus tour provides an excellent way to discover the city’s rich history and picturesque neighborhoods. Pickup and drop-off at the Charleston Visitor Center make for a convenient and hassle-free experience.
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Middleton Place Plantation – 3 Hour Guided Tour – Hotel Pickup
Visitors to Charleston can embark on a 3-hour guided tour of the renowned Middleton Place Plantation. This small group tour, limited to a maximum of 6 travelers, offers an immersive experience with hotel pickup and air-conditioned transportation.
The tour is led by the highly praised guide, Mike, who’s known for his extensive knowledge of Charleston and the plantation’s history.
The tour includes a brief driving tour of Charleston’s Old and Historic District before arriving at Middleton Place. Guests can enjoy the personalized experience, which allows for questions and contributions from participants.
The guide’s positive interactions with the plantation staff are noted, and he’s respected for his ability to provide historical context. The tour has an overall rating of 4.7 out of 70 reviews, with guests highlighting Mike’s knowledge, kindness, and the informative nature of the experience.
While the tour doesn’t include the plantation admission fee of $34, it offers a convenient and enjoyable way to explore this historic site.
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Charleston: Guided History Walking Tour
For those looking to explore Charleston’s rich history on foot, the Charleston: Guided History Walking Tour offers an engaging and informative experience.
Priced at $39.95 per person, this 2.5-hour tour led by the knowledgeable and entertaining guide, Cooper, provides an in-depth look into the city’s 350-year past.
Visitors can expect to visit top attractions, including the Pineapple Fountain, Waterfront Park, and historic architecture, while engaging in discussions about topics like slavery and the Civil War.
With an overall rating of 4.9/5 from 45 reviews, the tour is highly recommended for its focus on real-life context and unique insights.
Guests can book their spot without upfront payment and should note that the tour operates rain or shine and isn’t suitable for children under 10 or those with mobility issues.
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Drayton Hall Interpreter Guided House Tour (Summer)
What better way to take in Drayton Hall‘s 18th-century grandeur than through the Drayton Hall Interpreter Guided House Tour? Lasting an hour, the tour provides all-inclusive admission, allowing visitors access to the iconic African-American cemetery, Almeida Gallery, and Gates Gallery.
Conveniently located just outside Charleston, Drayton Hall offers free parking and an orientation video to set the stage.
The guided tour is accessible, accommodating service animals, strollers, and those with mobility challenges, though unpaved paths may pose difficulties for wheelchairs and motorized scooters.
Knowledgeable guides bring the property’s rich history to life, earning praise from past visitors for their informative and engaging presentations.
With an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 from 15 reviews, the Drayton Hall Interpreter Guided House Tour is a must for those seeking an immersive Charleston experience.
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Charlestons Haunted Ghost Tour – Solo Smart Phone Guided Tour
Offering a captivating alternative to traditional ghost tours, the Charlestons Haunted Ghost Tour – Solo Smart Phone Guided Tour allows visitors to uncover the city’s spooky past at their own pace.
Boasting a remarkable 98% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this self-guided audio tour takes adventurers on a chilling journey through Charleston’s most haunted landmarks.
Using the WalknTours app, participants can explore the Exchange Building, Dock Street Theater, and Circular Church Graveyard, among other significant sites, while seeing engaging stories and sound effects.
With flexible daily availability and a budget-friendly price starting at $7.75 per person, the tour caters to solo travelers and small groups alike.
While some users found the narratives less captivating than in-person experiences, many praised the tour’s flexibility and informative content.
For a truly unique ghost-hunting adventure, the Charlestons Haunted Ghost Tour offers an accessible and personalized way to discover the city’s haunted history.
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Guided Walking Ghost Tour in Charleston
Looking for a spooky way to explore Charleston’s haunted history? Join this guided walking ghost tour and discover the city’s eerie past.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour takes you to landmarks like Philadelphia Alley, St. Philip’s Church, and the Charleston City Market, sharing stories about grave robbers and lingering spirits.
The family-friendly experience includes admission to the Halsey Gallery of Contemporary Art and Philip Simmons House. With a maximum of 20 travelers, the tour ensures an intimate atmosphere.
Starting at 8:00 PM, the wheelchair and stroller-accessible tour is easily accessible via public transportation.
Priced from $35.90 per person, the tour offers a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
While some reviewers noted concerns about the itinerary, most praised the guide’s expertise and entertainment value.
Whether you’re a local or visiting Charleston, this ghost tour provides a spooky and informative way to experience the city’s haunted history.
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Guided Sunset Social Harbor Cruise in Charleston
As the sun dips below the horizon, Charleston’s picturesque harbor comes alive on the Guided Sunset Social Harbor Cruise. Operated by Charleston Party Cat Boat Charters, this 1-hour tour departs from the Ripley Light Marina, where guests can find the boat at slip #D7 next to the California Dreaming sign.
Parking is available near the nearby La Quinta hotel. The cruise accommodates a maximum of 25 travelers and includes on-board restrooms and bottled water. Guests can expect to return to the original meeting point at the end of the tour.
With confirmation received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability, the Guided Sunset Social Harbor Cruise offers a relaxing way to experience Charleston’s waterfront as the day winds down.
Most travelers can participate, though the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.
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The Sum Up
Charleston offers a variety of guided tours that showcase the city’s rich history, architecture, and haunted past. From walking tours to kayak excursions, visitors can explore the charming streets, historic sites, and natural surroundings with knowledgeable guides. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s pub scene, experiencing a haunted ghost tour, or taking in the stunning views of the harbor, Charleston has a guided tour to suit your interests.