Charleston & Savannah Itinerary: A Lowcountry Road Trip
Charleston, South Carolina, and Savannah, Georgia, are two amazing cities to visit in the Southeastern United States. If you’re looking for the perfect Charleston and Savannah itinerary, I’ve put together a plan that will make the most of your time in both cities, especially if you love history. And it includes an optional stop in Hilton Head, South Carolina.
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Start with two days in Charleston
Charleston, South Carolina, is beautiful and offers so many great activities that it’s one of our favorite places to visit. Charleston is a top travel destination in the American South and should not be missed by anyone looking to explore more of the United States.
Formerly Charles Town, Charleston is not only the biggest city in South Carolina but also a leading travel destination. It oozes Old South history and charm, as well as being a great food travel destination.
And while a lot of the city’s history is unpleasant, Charleston has come a long way toward making sure that the stories of enslaved people are being told.
Day 1: Charleston
On your first day in Charleston, after you’ve eaten a hearty breakfast, I recommend exploring two of the Holy City’s significant historical sites: Aiken-Rhett House and Fort Sumter National Monument.
Aiken-Rhett house
Aiken-Rhett House was once the home of Governor William Aiken Jr. and his wife from 1864 to 1866. William Aiken Jr. was the 61st governor of South Carolina.
While Nathaniel Russell House (nearer The Battery in lower Charleston) is a popular site that has been beautifully restored, if you’re looking for a historic Charleston home that’s been carefully preserved, I recommend you tour Aiken-Rhett House.
Aiken-Rhett House has been called “the most intact townhouse complex showcasing urban life in antebellum Charleston” by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
In the back of the house, there are quarters where many enslaved people used to live and die. Although it may be difficult to see, it is important to remember their lives.
Fort Sumter National Monument
Fort Sumter is primarily known as the site of the outbreak of the American Civil War. Confederate forces shelled the fort on April 12, 1861, beginning four years of bloody conflict.
The only way to get to Fort Sumter is by boat, as it sits on a man-made island in Charleston Harbor. You’ll want to book your tickets ahead of time online through Fort Sumter Tours, the National Park Service’s official vendor for these tickets.
Be sure to attend the National Park Service ranger’s history talk while inside the fort. You won’t be disappointed. It’s only 10 minutes long and excellently done, providing concise historical context for what you’ll be seeing as you walk about the grounds.
Day 2: Charleston
Stroll along The Battery
Be sure to visit The Battery on your second day in Charleston. It’s called The Battery because of the coastal defense artillery battery that used to be located there.
The Battery is located on the lower Charleston peninsula, where you’ll find a seawall promenade perfect for a morning walk. If you’re looking to enjoy some shade and escape the heat, I recommend taking a stroll through White Point Garden.
If you’re looking to explore some true Charleston architecture, take a stroll around The Battery and check out all of the beautiful homes. From the outside, of course. Don’t go knocking on doors; that would be weird.
Visit the historic Charleston City Market
The four-city-block-long Charleston City Market is considered by many to be a “must-do” in Charleston. At the market in downtown Charleston, you’ll have fun browsing through all of the different stalls. You can find anything from intricately designed art pieces by local artists to time-honored classics like sweetgrass baskets, which have been made in Charleston for hundreds of years.
It’s a wonderful place to explore and find some great souvenirs to take away with you to remember your visit to Charleston.
Waterfront Park
In this beautiful stretch of waterfront, you’ll find Charleston’s iconic Pineapple Fountain, a top photo spot in the city. This is the perfect place to take a brief break and simply enjoy your time in Charleston.
For excellent views of the harbor and Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, take a short walk out on the pier. There are also some lovely bench swings where you can sit down and enjoy the breeze on a warm day.
Day trips from Charleston
Consider taking a day trip away from Charleston or even for just an afternoon. There are plenty of amazing places to visit just a short drive away from the city.
Magnolia or Boone Hall Plantation
The Magnolia Plantation is one of the most popular day trips from Charleston. Founded by the Drayton family in 1676, it is one of the oldest public tourist destinations and gardens in the Lowcountry region. Visitors can view the romantic-style gardens with thousands of flowers and plants or take one of the many tours on offer.
Boone Hall Plantation in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, is one of America’s oldest working farms and has been recognized as the number one plantation in the Charleston area by USA TODAY 10Best.
Not only is the plantation stunning, but it also has a rich history. It was founded by English General John Boone in 1861.
Folly Beach
There’s nothing quite like a beach day to relax and reset. At just 20 minutes away from Charleston, Folly Beach on Folly Island is the perfect place to do so.
This barrier island off the coast of Charleston is popular with locals and visitors alike who enjoy swimming, fishing, kayaking, and spending time in nature surrounded by wildlife.
If you’re interested in more excursion ideas, check out my post about day trips from Charleston.
Where to eat in Charleston
Charleston, South Carolina, is a popular foodie destination. Consider taking a food tour like this to get expert guidance on the best places to eat and the best local dishes to try.
(Hushpuppies. The best local dish to try is hushpuppies.)
Here are a few of our favorite places to eat in Charleston and Mount Pleasant.
- Vicious Biscuit (great gluten-free options)
- Page’s Okra Grill (we loved the food here)
- Fleet Landing (separate gluten-free and vegetarian menus)
- Carmella’s Dessert Bar (a perfect place for coffee or a sweet treat)
Where to stay in Charleston
Charleston has no shortage of wonderful hotels to stay in. Here are a few top-rated options:
Boutique Luxury: Andrew Pinckney Inn—enjoy 270-degree views from the rooftop solarium.
Best for Luxury: The Dewberry—luxurious accommodations bordering Marion Square, near fine dining and shopping on King Street. I have not yet had the opportunity to stay at The Dewberry, but my sister has, and she loved it!
Best for Affordability: Doubletree Mount Pleasant—we had a lovely and budget-friendly stay at this hotel, which was just a few minutes outside Charleston.
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Optional trip extension to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
A little over 100 miles from Charleston and just about 40 miles from downtown Savannah, you’ll find lovely Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.
Hilton Head makes a great stop if you want to extend your Charleston and Savannah itinerary and explore more of the Low Country. It’s also my favorite weekend getaway from Charleston.
You can spend the day at the beach, visit Coligny Beach Park with its nearby shopping center, or check out Harbour Town (there’s a small day pass fee) and the lighthouse.
We loved our stay at the Hilton Beachfront Resort & Spa, which is right on the beach. So you’ll definitely want to book a room with a balcony. We think it’s worth the extra money to wake up to this…
Best for luxury: Inn & Club at Harbour Town
Best for beach location: Hilton Beachfront Resort & Spa
Best for Value: Home2 Suites by Hilton offers free breakfast
Best for value: Holiday Inn Express Hilton Head Island, with just a short walk to Coligny Beach
Find more of the best things to do between Savannah and Charleston.
Spend a couple of days in Savannah
After taking in the beauty of Charleston (and perhaps enjoying a little time on the beach of Hilton Head), spend a couple of days soaking in historic and remarkable Savannah.
Here are my top picks for things to do there.
Genteel & Bard history tour
I highly recommend taking a historic walking tour in Savannah if you want to get to know the city better.
And I can recommend the Genteel & Bard tour without reservation. T.C. Michaels is an outstanding and friendly guide. And a great storyteller. He truly brought the city to life, from its planning and founding, then up to the present.
This tour will most definitely make you appreciate Savannah more, as well as the people who worked so hard to preserve it for future generations to enjoy.
They also offer a dark history and ghost tour, which is quite popular.
River Street
Iconic River Street is a popular tourist destination in Savannah known for its charming architecture and lively nightlife. You really shouldn’t miss it.
The street runs along the Savannah River and is home to a variety of restaurants and shops. It’s a great place to spend an evening out with friends or family.
I do have to admit it is a rather touristy area, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take a stroll down it once or twice, especially if it’s your first time in Savannah.
Waving Girl Statue
As long as you’re on River Street, make sure to step over to the famous Waving Girl statue in Morrell Park. The statue honors Florence Martus, who greeted each ship entering or leaving Savannah for 44 years by waving a handkerchief or a lantern at night.
According to legend, she did this because, as a young girl, she had fallen in love with a sailor, and she was trying to make sure he could find her, but there doesn’t appear to be any historical evidence to support this notion.
Forsyth Park
There’s a quite well-known fountain in Savannah, and you’ll find it in Forsyth Park (2 W Gaston St). Forsyth is 30 acres of walking paths, gardens, sports courts and fields, a half-shell theatre, and more.
It’s truly a beautiful park and well worth a visit.
Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist
In addition to looking for all the best art when we travel, we enjoy visiting historical and prominent places of worship.
The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist is a stunning example of French Gothic architecture and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Savannah, Georgia.
The church was dedicated in 1876. It’s also home to some amazing stained glass windows. St. John the Baptist is open for visitors (self-guided tour) during select hours. They suggest a $3 per adult cash donation.
Leopold’s Ice Cream
A scoop at Leopold’s is a “must-do” in Savannah for me. Expect lines out the door if you visit Savannah during high season.
Leopold’s has been a Savannah institution for more than 100 years. They’re probably most famous for their Tutti Frutti ice cream. I tried the Savannah Socialite, which is chocolate ice cream with Georgia pecans and bourbon caramel. It. Was. Delicious.
More recommendations for where to eat in Savannah
- B. Matthew’s Eatery
- Vic’s on the River
- The Collins Quarter
Get more details about where to eat and what to do in Savannah.
Where to Stay in Savannah
Luxury: The Eliza Thompson House is an inn rich in history that’s situated near Forsyth Park and its well-known fountain.
Moderate: If you’re looking for a great view of both the historic Savannah Riverfront and the steamboats that travel along it, look no further than Marriott Savannah Riverfront! We enjoyed our stay there.
Affordable: Holiday Inn Express Savannah – Historic District offers comfortable and affordable rooms just steps from historic River Street.
The bottom line
If you’re looking for fun Southern cities to visit, look no further than Charleston and Savannah. These two cities offer amazing food, history, and architecture that will keep you entertained for days.
We suggest spending at least two days in Charleston and at least a full day or a day and a half in Savannah to experience the best of what these cities have to offer.
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