The Best Areas to Stay in Charleston, SC
The Best Areas to Stay in Charleston, SC

Best Areas to Stay in Charleston, South Carolina

Where to Stay in Charleston – A Guide to this South Carolina City

Charleston is a city located in South Carolina, in the United States.

Entertainment options in Charleston range from going to James Island to enjoying the beautiful Sunrise Park, as well as the breathtaking views of the mansions surrounding Downtown and the Ravenel Bridge.

Public transport in Charleston is efficient, with a bus system that runs through most of its areas and a tram that covers Downtown. The beaches in Charleston are quite popular during the summer, when, depending on the environment you are looking for, you can visit Folly Beach, Isle of Palms or Sullivan’s Island.

It is also possible to visit Charleston by car, as there are many free parking spaces in the city.

Furthermore, the weather in Charleston is known for its heavy rains, so it is advisable to visit the city between June and August to enjoy outdoor activities.

It is possible to get to Charleston through its airport, located about a 25-minute drive from Downtown, with connections to international destinations such as London, as well as domestic flights to and from other American cities such as Boston, Chicago, Seattle, and Austin.

From the airport, it is easy to get to the neighborhoods of the city by rental car, taxis or buses, although the latter are not as frequent.

The Historic District and the French Quarter are the best areas to stay in Charleston as they host a large number of attractions worth visiting. (See accommodation in Historic District & French Quarter).

Here’s a guide with the best areas to stay in Charleston, South Carolina

The Best Areas to Stay in Charleston, South Carolina

1. Our Favorite Area: Historic District & French Quarter

Historic District & French Quarter are two nearby districts that form the area with the most places to eat, shop and stay in Charleston, SC.

This area stands out for its renovated architecture from the beginning of the 20th century, especially visible on King Street.

The French Quarter, in particular, is a historic South Carolina landmark that has become famous for its art galleries, restaurants, and Charleston’s Waterfront Park.

Some historical sites to see in Charleston’s French Quarter include the Pink House, the Old Slave Mart, Marion Square and the Dock Street Theater, known for being the first theater production site in the United States.

If you have plenty of time to stay in the Historic District & French Quarter, we recommend visiting the churches, the first French establishments, and cafes in the area.

Historic District & French Quarter are quite close to Downtown Charleston, have parking spaces and are very pedestrian-friendly.

Historic District & French Quarter are among the best areas to stay in Charleston for their many upscale attractions, restaurants, and hotels, as well as their public transport connections.

Where to stay in Charleston, South Carolina - Near Marion Square
Where to stay in Charleston, South Carolina – Near Marion Square
Alojamiento en Historic District & French Quarter - Click on the map to see all available accommodation in this area
Accommodation in Historic District & French Quarter – Click on the map to see all available accommodation in this area

Why is this a recommended area to stay in Charleston, SC:

  • Best area for shopping
  • Hotels of all kinds
  • Free parking
  • Near Downtown Charleston
  • Best area for sightseeing
  • Historical attractions

2. Downtown Charleston

Downtown Charleston is a district that blends a college vibe with high-class residences and office complexes.

Among the main places to visit in Downtown are the aquarium and the Gibbes Art Museum, an important cultural center in the city.

Downtown Charleston is a charming place where it is not unusual to see carriages pass near iconic restaurants, luxury hotels, and shops of all kinds.

Other must-see attractions in Downtown Charleston are the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Patriots Point and Boone Hall.

Downtown is another of the best areas to stay in Charleston for being the heart of the city, as well as one of its liveliest neighborhoods, with excellent public transport connections.

Recommended area to stay in Charleston, South Virginia - Downtown
Recommended area to stay in Charleston, South Virginia – Downtown
Accommodation in Downtown Charleston - Click on the map to see all available accommodation in this area
Accommodation in Downtown Charleston – Click on the map to see all available accommodation in this area

Why is this a recommended area to stay in Charleston, SC:

  • Heart of the city
  • Great transport connections
  • Best area for business travelers

3. North Charleston

North Charleston is located just minutes from the city’s airport, making it one of the best areas to stay in Charleston for travelers on a layover.

This neighborhood has entertainment options for all audiences, it is an ideal district for art lovers, beer enthusiasts, fans of live music and more.

Among the attractions of North Charleston for those traveling with children are the Whirlin Waters Adventure Waterpark and Frankie’s Fun Park, which are, undoubtedly, two must-see stops in this area.

Here, you’ll also find the coliseum, an avant-garde space that hosts large-scale events, including concerts.

When moving from North Charleston to other areas or the airport, it is best to do it by car or taxi.

This is a recommended area to stay in Charleston, South Carolina if you are looking for tranquility during your stay.

Best areas to stay in Charleston, SC - North Charleston
Best areas to stay in Charleston, SC – North Charleston
Accommodation in North Charleston - Click on the map to see all available accommodation in this area
Accommodation in North Charleston – Click on the map to see all available accommodation in this area

Why is this a recommended area to stay:

  • Near the airport
  • Peaceful area
  • Family-friendly area to stay in Charleston

4. Mount Pleasant

Mount Pleasant is one of the best areas to stay in Charleston, South Carolina, for having its own urban center and being just minutes from the most popular areas of the city.

This district sits on the Ravenel Bridge, located on the northeast side of Charleston, and is one of the largest neighborhoods in the city.

The neighborhood is known for its rapid growth in both population and commerce, making it one of the most multicultural areas in South Carolina.

Places to see in Mount Pleasant include the Old Village, with charming old houses, and Patriots Point, a naval museum with warships and a WWII aircraft carrier.

For shopping lovers, here are the Mount Pleasant Towne Center and Belle Hall Shopping Center, with stores and boutiques of different categories.

Being in a port area, Mount Pleasant has hotels with beautiful views that are also cheaper than Downtown Charleston accommodation options.

Where to stay in Charleston, South Carolina - Mount Pleasant
Where to stay in Charleston, South Carolina – Mount Pleasant
Accommodation in Mount Pleasant - Click on the map to see all available accommodation in this area
Accommodation in Mount Pleasant – Click on the map to see all available accommodation in this area

Why is this a recommended area to stay:

  • Old Village
  • Patriots Point
  • Cheap hotels in Charleston

5. Near Charleston International Airport

The surroundings of the airport are a good area to stay in Charleston for a short visit or during a layover.

Near the Charleston airport, there are some good restaurants, as well as business-type hotels and cheap accommodation.

If you want to visit the attractions that the city offers from this area, it is best to take a taxi or rent a car since public transport is not as frequent here.

The airport is located 25 minutes north of the main areas of the city, offering an escape from the hustle and bustle of Downtown and tourists.

This is one of the best areas to stay in Charleston, South Carolina, for business travelers visiting the city for a conference.

Accommodation near Charleston International Airport - Click on the map to see all available accommodation in this area
Accommodation near Charleston International Airport – Click on the map to see all available accommodation in this area

Why is this a recommended area to stay:

  • Best area for travelers on a layover
  • Cheap accommodation in Charleston
  • Charleston International Airport

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