Charleston Tours

Discover the Holy City through the eyes of expert local guides — by carriage, boat, foot, or even ghost light.

Historic carriage tour Charleston

Historic Carriage Tours

There is no better way to experience Charleston's historic district than from the seat of a horse-drawn carriage. Clip-clopping through cobblestone streets past antebellum mansions and centuries-old churches, you'll feel transported back in time.

Several companies offer carriage tours departing from the City Market area, with knowledgeable guides sharing stories of Charleston's fascinating history, architecture, and legends.

  • Departures from the historic City Market
  • 1-hour guided tours through the historic district
  • Evening tours available for a romantic experience
  • Multiple companies to choose from
  • Advance booking recommended in peak season
Book a Carriage Tour
Charleston Harbor cruise

Charleston Harbor Cruises

See Charleston from the water on a scenic harbor cruise. Glide past Fort Sumter, the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier, and the stunning Charleston skyline as your guide shares the city's maritime history.

Sunset cruises are particularly popular, offering breathtaking views of the sun setting over the harbor and the city's iconic church steeples — earning Charleston its nickname "The Holy City."

  • Daily sightseeing and sunset cruises
  • Fort Sumter ferry tours
  • Dolphin-watching excursions
  • Private charter options available
  • Departures from Liberty Square and Aquarium Wharf
Book a Harbor Cruise
The Notebook filming locations

The Notebook Tour

The beloved 2004 film "The Notebook," starring Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams, was filmed almost entirely in and around Charleston. The city's stunning antebellum architecture and natural beauty made it the perfect backdrop for this timeless love story.

Visit the filming locations including the iconic house where Noah and Allie reunite (actually Martins Point Plantation in Wadmalaw Island), the historic streets of downtown Charleston, and the beautiful marshes of the Lowcountry.

  • Self-guided tour map available at visitor centers
  • Guided tours offered by local companies
  • Martins Point Plantation (exterior views)
  • Downtown Charleston filming locations
  • Lowcountry marsh and waterway scenes
Plan Your Tour

More Tours & Experiences

Charleston offers an incredible variety of guided experiences for every interest.

Ghost tour Charleston
Evening

Ghost Tours

Charleston is one of America's most haunted cities. Evening ghost tours explore the city's darkest history, from pirates to Civil War spirits.

Food tour Charleston
Culinary

Food & Drink Tours

Taste your way through Charleston's culinary scene with guided walking tours that stop at the city's best restaurants, bars, and markets.

Fort Sumter tour
History

Civil War Tours

In-depth tours of Fort Sumter, the Battery, and other Civil War sites with expert historians who bring the conflict to life.

Kayak tour Charleston
Adventure

Kayak & Paddleboard Tours

Explore Charleston's beautiful marshes, creeks, and waterways by kayak or paddleboard with experienced local guides.

Walking tour Charleston
Walking

Architecture Walking Tours

Explore Charleston's extraordinary collection of antebellum architecture, from Rainbow Row to the grand mansions of South Battery.

Dolphin tour Charleston
Wildlife

Dolphin Watching Tours

Charleston's waters are home to a resident population of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. Boat tours offer near-guaranteed sightings.

Ready to Explore Charleston?

Contact us to help plan your perfect Charleston tour itinerary.

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