Its story started in the year 1670 and it has, over the centuries, grown by leaps and bounds. Charleston prides itself in being South Carolina’s oldest city and this age is evident in the cobbled streets lined by historic architecture. This city has seen it all, from the resounding gunshots of the Civil War to the wanton destruction caused by Hurricane Hugo in 1989. Despite the adversity the city has endured, Charleston has remained stoic, defying these catastrophes to become a bustling economy today. Learn about the city’s history in places like the American Military Museum and the Charleston Museum. You can also take a stroll in the Historic District, a part of Charleston where the past is preserved. Interested in visiting? Check out the list below to learn about the historic hotels in Charleston, South Carolina.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) properties with historic significance, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 07, 2024.
1. Andrew Pinckney Inn (from USD 374)
Reasonable pricing with complimentary breakfast and happy hour offerings
Convenient valet service, clean and comfortable rooms, complimentary wine and cheese
Centrally located near historic downtown Charleston, within walking distance to attractions and restaurants
Excellent and varied complimentary breakfast, with additional wine and cheese offerings
This historic hotel started its life in the year 1840 and, since then, it has offered comfort and luxury to a multitude of guests. Standing the test of time, the hotel currently offers modern facilities but still bears traces of its past. The décor is chic and elegant, creating a very homely aesthetic. You’ll love the look of the bare-brick walls in some of the rooms, a hint of the 1800s-building. There are various rooms, depending on your budget, but each one boasts a large television, free Wi-Fi, and an iHome docking station. By staying here, you’ll be within walking distance of the Charleston City Market and King Street shopping district, making this a haven for shoppers. And with the historic district right outside, you’ll have the chance to explore all the area’s sites.
Andrew Pinckney Inn
Address: 40 Pinckney Street
142 meters (465.4 ft) from Palmetto Carriage Works
2. Belmond Charleston Place (from USD 395)
Enjoy spending time at the beach by getting yourself a room at Belmond Charleston Place. Found just a minute from the sea, this is a perfect place for those who want to spend most of their time lying on the sandy beach. This hotel is also a short distance from places of interest like the College of Charleston, South Carolina Aquarium, and the Historic District. Spend your nights lounging in the exquisite rooms where you’ll find total luxury. Though varying in sizes and opulence, standard features in the hotel rooms are Wi-Fi, cable TV, and an ensuite bathroom. You’ll also be delighted to know that Belmond has three on-site restaurants where you can tantalize your taste buds.
The Charleston Place
Address: 205 Meeting Street
317 meters (0.2 ft) from Palmetto Carriage Works
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3. French Quarter Inn (from USD 529)
Nothing but pampering is all you’ll get at the French Quarter Inn. Upon check-in, you’ll be offered a glass of champagne and, each day, a gourmet breakfast will be served at no extra cost. This boutique hotel will make you feel welcome and right at home. The rooms are elegant, each one stylishly decorated and furnished. There are rooms for anyone, from those traveling alone to guests traveling with their family. And in each room, there’s a large television, Wi-Fi, and a mini-fridge. This hotel is located in the heart of Charleston, very close to Charleston City Market, the popular King Street, South Carolina Aquarium, and Liberty Square.
French Quarter Inn
Address: 166 Church Street
195 meters (0.2 ft) from Palmetto Carriage Works
4. Francis Marion Hotel (from USD 339)
Reasonable rates for central location, but parking and breakfast are additional costs.
Historic charm, spacious rooms, and friendly staff. Lobby and some areas may need updates.
Perfect downtown Charleston location for walking to attractions, shops, and dining.
Delicious breakfast at Swamp Fox, Starbucks in lobby, and nearby dining options.
Set up your base in the heart of Charleston by staying in the Francis Marion Hotel. This boutique-style hotel is one that seeks to offer luxury, with an aura of opulence transcending throughout the property. The rooms have chic décor and are well furnished. Standard features are a flat-screen television, Wi-Fi, a coffee maker, and an ensuite bathroom. On-site, you can also take advantage of amenities like the fitness center and a Starbucks Coffee shop. When hungry, nip into the on-site restaurant, or you can opt to stroll down the street and explore the numerous other restaurants in the area.
Francis Marion Hotel
Address: 387 King Street
873 meters (0.6 ft) from Palmetto Carriage Works
5. Hampton Inn Charleston - Historic District (from USD 365)
The Hampton Inn is a delightful hotel that has a welcoming aura. Offering a homely experience, you’ll definitely love spending your days and nights here. And it certainly is a historic hotel as it was constructed in the late 1800s. Today, this old charm still exists and it’s combined with the conveniences of modernity. The rooms are beautiful and offer total comfort. There are various room types, ranging from the basic King Room to the more opulent Deluxe Queen Room. You can also spend time in the stunning courtyard garden or simply visit the nearby attractions, for instance, South Carolina Aquarium, the American Military Museum, and Charleston Museum.
Hampton Inn Charleston-Historic District
Address: 345 Meeting Street
1.07 km (0.7 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works
6. The Vendue (from USD 260)
With a past that dates back to the late 1700s, The Vendue is certainly laden with numerous stories to tell. However, you can barely guess the age of this establishment as everything has been renovated to modern standards. If you love art, you’ll enjoy staying here because The Vendue hosts a 300-piece art exhibition while various other art programs are offered for interested guests. Standard features of this hotel include luxurious rooms that are furnished with antique furniture. You also get to enjoy amenities like cable TV and an ensuite bathroom. From here, you can explore the Historic District, which is just a short stroll away. Other places of interest found nearby are Waterfront Park, Charleston City Market, and the popular King Street.
The Vendue
Address: 19 Vendue Range
398 meters (0.3 ft) from Palmetto Carriage Works
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7. Embassy Suites Charleston (from USD 322)
Reasonable pricing for a historic downtown location.
Complimentary breakfast, evening manager’s reception, and valet parking. Spacious suites with historic charm.
Conveniently located in the historic district, close to restaurants and attractions.
Excellent breakfast with made-to-order eggs, but limited options during evening social hour.
The Embassy Suites is a modest looking hotel, but don’t let this fool you into thinking that it’s lacking in luxury. This hotel is a very homely place to stay, allowing you to feel free to take advantage of the plethora of facilities available. For instance, there’s a fitness center that’s open to all guests as well as a business center if you need to get some work done. The Embassy Suites offers a flat-screen television in each room, as well as a microwave and a refrigerator. Located just a stone’s throw away from the downtown area, you’ll have the freedom to explore the Historic District, Charleston Music Hall, and the South Carolina Aquarium.
Embassy Suites Charleston - Historic District
Address: 337 Meeting Street
931 meters (0.6 ft) from Palmetto Carriage Works
8. The Dewberry Charleston (from USD 659)
The Dewberry Charleston will receive you with warmth and geniality on your next trip to Charleston. It’s found in the Historic District and is located within walking distance from sights like the Charleston Museum, Charleston Farmers Market, South Carolina Aquarium, and the American Theater. Other than a convenient location, this hotel also offers world-class facilities that will ensure you have an unforgettable stay. In addition to the luxurious rooms, there is a fitness center, a restaurant, and a cocktail bar on-site. You can also enjoy standard features like a flat-screen television, a mini bar, and an ensuite bathroom in the rooms.
The Dewberry Charleston
Address: 334 Meeting Street
874 meters (0.6 ft) from Palmetto Carriage Works
9. Planters Inn (from USD 459)
Relatively expensive, in line with other hotels in Charleston.
Charming historic building, lobby drinks/snacks, lovely courtyard garden.
Prime location in the French Quarter, walking distance to restaurants, bars, and historical sites.
Delicious dining experiences at the Peninsula Grill, though the restaurant can be a bit loud.
Having been founded in the 19th century, the Planters Inn has become a renowned hotel in Charleston. It’s found in the Historic District and is a short distance from the Charleston City Market, Dock Street Theater, Old Slave Mart Museum, and Waterfront Park. The hotel has a very lively aesthetic, thanks to the bright interior and chic décor. You’ll get to choose from a variety of rooms that range from the Grand King to the Penthouse King and everything in between. Regardless of which of these rooms you opt for, you’ll still get to enjoy creature comforts like a flat-screen television, an ensuite bathroom, and a daily maid service. You can also take advantage of the on-site business center if you need to get some work done.
Planters Inn - Charleston
Address: 112 North Market Street
306 meters (0.2 ft) from Palmetto Carriage Works
10. Wentworth Mansion (from USD 500)
From outside, you’ll be enthralled by the majesty of this building, an old mansion that still retains its historic charm. Inside, you’ll still sense its ancient aura, one that’s complemented by modern décor. As a result, Wentworth Mansion offers guests a taste of 1800s extravagance combined with contemporary conveniences. The rooms have free Wi-Fi, a DVD player, a fridge, and an ensuite bathroom with a bathtub. You can indulge in the cuisines prepared at the on-site restaurant or explore Charleston’s Historic District where you’ll find an even wider variety of places to eat.
Wentworth Mansion
Address: 149 Wentworth Street
1.11 km (0.7 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works
An exciting city
Charleston is an exciting city to visit, and an equally wonderful place to stay is mandatory. Thankfully, with the list above, you have a wide range of hotels to choose from that will place you in the heart of the action. Go ahead and book a room today.
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