The Holy City draws visitors from around the country for its rich history, delicious cuisine, and stunning sights. While our historic town is a year-round destination, summer is when it truly comes to life. Energetic, vibrant, and brimming with potential, those who love to get out and explore will want to experience our Lowcountry jewel. Keep reading to discover how to make the most of your three-day summer itinerary in Charleston.
Searching for more things to do and places to see on your vacation? Our Charleston Insider’s Guide is full of the top shops, restaurants, historical sites, and much more!
The Perfect 3-Day Charleston Summer Itinerary
Day 1: Take a Culinary Tour of the Holy City
You’ll want to dedicate one day of your Charleston trip to savoring the renowned cuisine that calls our city home. Fresh seafood, inventive Southern dishes, and locally brewed beer are all staples to the popular Holy City foodie scene. Whether you want to sip a local brew as you watch the sunset from Shem Creek or dig into a plate of locally sourced gourmet fried chicken in a downtown restaurant, the opportunities are endless here! With so many incredible places to eat, it can be a difficult decision. Here are a few favorite breweries and restaurants to choose from during your three-day summer itinerary in Charleston.
Restaurants
Breweries
Day 2: Enjoy Scenic Views and Rich History in Downtown
Summer in Charleston is the perfect time to enjoy Charleston’s landmark destinations that encompass a rich, historical past. The Battery is a must-see on an afternoon stroll around the city. This fortified seawall at the tip of the downtown peninsula overlooks Charleston Harbor where the Ashley River and Cooper River converge. With roots dating back to the early 18th century, it’s a location that holds some of the city’s most fascinating stories. From here you can look out to Fort Sumter, often regarded as the location where the first shots were fired during the Civil War, when the Confederacy fired on the US garrison of Fort Sumter on April 12, 1861. And, while you’re walking around the Battery, be sure to take a break under the shade in White Point Garden. It is one of the most beloved areas of the city and the location of some of Charleston’s most magnificent mansions. Other historic sites to put on your list include The Charleston City Market, St. Philip’s Church, Marion Square and The Nathaniel Russel House.
Day 3: Hit the Beach
During the summer, you definitely should plan to spend at least one day of your extended weekend in Charleston at the beach. While the Lowcountry is home to some of the best stretches of sand along the South Carolina coast, we recommend checking out Folly Beach for the ultimate day under the sun. This is a quintessential beach town with plenty of shops, restaurants, and miles of shoreline. Whether you sunbathe, build sandcastles, or try your luck at surfing, you’ll find many incredible ways to spend an amazing day at the beach.
Plan Your Long Weekend in the Holy City
Luxury Simplified Retreats has the perfect property for your Charleston summer vacation! Our collection of rentals features an array of locations in the area, including downtown and Folly Beach. The best of the Holy City is right outside of your door! We love our city, and we know that you’ll love it too. Don’t forget to check out our concierge services and our experience packages for ways to enhance your stay!
Start planning your trip today by booking one of our properties! We look forward to welcoming you to the Holy City.
