How to Spend the Perfect 3 Days in Charleston, SC: A Local-Inspired Itinerary

If you know me, you know Charleston, South Carolina is my favorite city in the world. My husband and I have been visiting Charleston since 2017, and even lived there for a bit! This year alone, I’ve already gone twice and am considering a third trip.

When people ask why I love Charleston so much, I usually say: “The charm, the unbeatable food, the history, the gorgeous beaches, Charleston just has it all.” But the truth is, it’s something you really need to experience for yourself.

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, a romantic Charleston trip, or a bachelorette party, this charming Southern city offers a bit of everything - coastal beauty, historic streets, unforgettable food, and plenty of sunshine.

If you're wondering how to spend 3 days in Charleston SC, here’s your ultimate local-inspired itinerary.

How to Spend the Perfect 3 Days in Charleston, SC

Day 1

Coffee at Harken Café

Start your trip with a coffee and pastry at Harken Café, a quintessential café in the French Quarter.

→My favorites: Butter Me Up breakfast sandwich, any pastry

Walk the Battery, Rainbow Row & Waterfront Park

The Battery – Start at essentially the southern tip of the Charleston peninsula, known as The Battery. It’s filled with gorgeous mansions and views of Charleston Harbor.

Rainbow Row – One of the most Instagram-able spots in Charleston is Rainbow Row, a row of houses painted in different pastel colors.

Waterfront Park & The Pineapple Fountain - After you’re done “house shopping”, walk along the waterfront. Experience Waterfront Park and the famous Pineapple Fountain.

Lunch at Poogan’s Porch

Poogan’s Porch is a classic Charleston restaurant that feels like you’re being welcomed into someone’s (very chic) Southern home. Sit on the porch if you can, order the fried green tomatoes or buttermilk fried chicken, and soak in the charm. It's casual, cozy, and SO Charleston.

Explore the Charleston City Market

Walk off lunch at the Charleston City Market, a historic market established in the 1790s. There are dozens of stands featuring local goods, sweetgrass baskets, and Charleston-themed souvenirs.

Dinner at Chubby Fish

Chubby Fish is one of my top two restaurants in Charleston, serving the freshest (and most delicious) innovative seafood dishes. It’s also one of the most popular restaurants in Charleston, and they do NOT take reservations. They’re closed on Sundays/Mondays, so plan accordingly! You’ll want to plan on getting in line around 3:30/4p if you want to be seated right when they open at 5p. Otherwise, you’ll put your name down and they’ll assign you to a later seating. If you end up on the wait list, there is a great cocktail bar next door, Seahorse (try their smoked olive martini!).

→My favorites: Literally anything on the menu is good, assuming you like fish. My top two things are the Tuna Belly Toast and Caviar Sliders

Nightcap at Uptown Social

Ready for a fun night out? Head to Uptown Social, a lively King Street bar great for cocktails, dancing, or just great people-watching. The rooftop is the move if the weather’s warm (which it usually is).

Day 2

Morning Stroll at Colonial Lake

This peaceful lake in the heart of downtown is where locals go to walk their dogs, jog, or sip their coffee while soaking in the scenery. It’s quiet, beautiful, and lined with charming Charleston homes. It almost feels like a secret garden in the city.

Breakfast at Holey City Bagels

Located in Charleston’s Upper King Street district, Holey City Bagels is known for its freshly baked, New York-style bagels and coffee bar. The line is usually pretty long, but you can typically order ahead for pickup. Note: They’re closed on Tuesdays.

→My favorites: Blueberry Bagel toasted with cream cheese and Rosemary Salt Bagel toasted with butter

Shopping on King Street

Welcome to one of the South’s best shopping districts. The main shopping area of King Street stretches around 1.5 miles, so you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes. You’ll find high-end fashion, chic home decor, locally made goods, and antique shops.

Lunch at 167 Raw

167 Raw is another top restaurant in Charleston. They are located on King Street and serve fresh oysters and fish dishes. This is another spot that doesn’t take reservations, so go early or add your name and grab a drink (or keep shopping) nearby while you wait!

→My favorites: Crispy Oysters, Tuna Tataki, and of course, their Oysters

Rooftop Cocktails at The Citrus Club

Located atop The Dewberry hotel (my favorite hotel in Charleston), The Citrus Club is chic and the perfect place to sip a cocktail while watching the sunset over Charleston.

Dinner at Halls Chophouse

Halls Chophouse is the other restaurant in my top two favorites in Charleston, and it’s also one of my favorite spots in the world. The restaurant is family-owned, so there’s a warm, welcoming feeling the second you walk in. It’s the epitome of true southern hospitality. Oh, and the food is amazing too. They also have a Gospel Brunch on Sundays. Be sure to snag a reservation well in advance. If you can’t get one, go there early and grab a drink at the bar while you wait for a table.

→My favorites: Lowcountry Fried Green Tomatoes, Pepper Jack Creamed Corn Skillet, Filet, and Dirty Martini with Blue Cheese Olives (they love a heavy pour!)

Day 3

Coffee at Babas on Cannon

Babas on Cannon is my FAVORITE coffee shop in Charleston. Their coffee and food are delicious, and there is something about the vibe. Sit outside if the weather’s nice and ease into your morning. They’re open for cocktails and have aperitivo hour every Friday & Saturday from 4-10pm. I’m not sure what time of day I prefer at Babas - they’re both equally great.

→My favorites: The Very Cold Coffee and their Orange Spritz on draft in the evening. For food, I love their Potato Breakfast Tacos and Whipped Ricotta Toast

Sullivan’s Island Beach Day

A short drive from downtown, Sullivan’s Island offers quiet, dune-lined beaches and a laid-back coastal vibe. The main street is also filled with great restaurants and shops.

Brunch at The Obstinate Daughter

Just blocks from the beach, The Obstinate Daughter is a local favorite and one of my favorite brunch spots. You can make reservations up to 2 weeks out, but they fill up fast.

→My favorites: Breakfast Sausage, the Rutledge Pizza, and Old Danger Pizza

Scenic Drive Through Isle of Palms

Take a breezy drive through Isle of Palms, known for its wider beaches and the fun, beachfront bar The Windjammer.

Afternoon at Shem Creek

Spend your final afternoon on the docks of Shem Creek, known for dolphin sightings, seafood restaurants, and unbeatable lowcountry views. It’s the perfect place to close out your 3 days in Charleston.

Dinner at Tavern & Table

If you’re like me and never want to leave Shem Creek, grab dinner at Tavern & Table. They serve fresh, New American dishes and twists on classic Southern comfort food. Ask for a table outside!

→My favorites: Double Double Burger, Roasted Beet Salad, and Crab & Artichoke Dip

Final Thoughts

From the cobblestone streets and historic homes to fresh oysters and hidden beach towns, Charleston, SC is one of the best destinations in the country. Whether you're planning a foodie weekend, beach retreat, or girls’ getaway, this city offers the perfect blend of Southern charm and modern luxury. Let me know if you want help planning your own Charleston escape - I’m always one step ahead with the recommendations.

Interested in planning a trip to Charleston?

At Allure Travel Co., we don’t just plan trips-we curate experiences. We offer bespoke travel planning, luxury hotel bookings, and travel concierge services. If you’re looking for full-service planning or to simply elevate your experience, we’d love to work with you!