top of page

Where to Stay in Charleston: Historic Homes, Intimate Inns, and Refined Hotels by Neighborhood

Charleston isn’t just a city to visit—it’s a city to experience. From its cobblestone streets and hidden gardens to centuries-old architecture, Charleston’s timeless charm leaves an indelible impression. Choosing where to stay in Charleston is just as much a part of the experience as exploring historic landmarks or savoring Lowcountry cuisine. Whether you’re drawn to the quiet elegance of South of Broad, the lively energy of Upper King Street, or the refined comfort of a boutique inn in the Historic District, this guide will help you find accommodations that reflect the city’s grace and hospitality. Discover the perfect place to stay and immerse yourself fully in the magic of Charleston’s neighborhoods.


The courtyard at Planters Inn in Charleston, South Carolina, featuring lush greenery, a reflection pool with small fountains, elegant seating, and classic Southern architectural elements—exemplifying the historic charm and refined hospitality highlighted in the article 'Where to Stay in Charleston: Historic Homes, Intimate Inns, and Refined Hotels by Neighborhood.'
Planters Inn's tranquil courtyard in Charleston, SC, epitomizes Southern hospitality and historic charm — a timeless choice for where to stay in Charleston.


French Quarter: From Market to Waterfront

The French Quarter is one of Charleston’s most charming and historic areas, brimming with centuries-old architecture, art galleries, and cobblestone streets that invite you to wander. This neighborhood offers a blend of quiet sophistication and vibrant culture, with accommodations ranging from elegant boutique inns to historic hotels. Staying here places you within walking distance of iconic landmarks like the Charleston City Market and Waterfront Park, making it an ideal spot for those who want to experience Charleston’s timeless beauty and lively energy in equal measure.


Planters Inn


Steeped in Charleston’s history and charm, Planters Inn offers a boutique experience infused with timeless elegance. Housed in a meticulously preserved 19th-century building, this Relais & Châteaux property is renowned for its gracious hospitality and thoughtfully appointed rooms, each featuring handcrafted four-poster beds and period-style furnishings. The enchanting interior courtyard, draped with flickering lanterns and lush greenery, is an inviting retreat from the city’s lively streets. Located directly on Market Street, guests are steps from the Historic City Market and a short stroll to King Street’s upscale shops and galleries. Dining at the acclaimed Peninsula Grill, home to the iconic 12-layer coconut cake, adds a culinary highlight to any stay. Planters Inn is perfect for travelers seeking a luxurious yet intimate Charleston experience, steeped in both elegance and authenticity.Pause Point: Imagine stepping into a grand lobby with marble floors and a warm Southern welcome that makes you feel instantly at home.


Photo credits: Planters Inn



The Charleston Place


An icon of Charleston’s refined hospitality, The Charleston Place blends timeless Southern elegance with modern luxury in an enviable location on Meeting Street. The hotel’s grand Georgian architecture, sweeping staircase, and chandeliered lobby set the tone for a sophisticated stay. Rooms offer views of either charming Meeting Street or lively King Street, providing a glimpse into the city’s historic charm and vibrant shopping district. Guests enjoy world-class amenities, including a rooftop pool with panoramic views, a full-service spa, and on-site high-end boutiques. It’s also home to the celebrated Charleston Grill, where elevated Lowcountry cuisine and live jazz create one of the most memorable dining experiences in the city. Located just steps from the Historic City Market and a pleasant, short walk to Waterfront Park, this storied property offers both luxury and an ideal base for exploring Charleston’s best.


Photo credits: The Charleston Place



The Spectator Hotel


Effortlessly blending Art Deco, jazz-themed glamor with Southern hospitality, The Spectator Hotel stands out as one of Charleston’s most distinctive boutique stays. Located at the meeting point of the French Quarter and the Historic City Market, this award-winning hotel offers an air of refined exclusivity. Guests are welcomed with complimentary cocktails upon arrival and enjoy the personalized service of a dedicated butler throughout their stay. The elegantly styled rooms feature plush furnishings, marble bathrooms, and bespoke amenities, exuding sophistication with a modern flair. Steps from the city’s top attractions, The Spectator provides a serene retreat from Charleston’s lively streets while immersing guests in its cultural richness. Perfect for those who appreciate curated luxury with an intimate, personal touch.


Photo credits: The Spectator Hotel



The Loutrel


A true gem in Charleston’s French Quarter, The Loutrel is where modern luxury meets timeless Southern charm. This sophisticated boutique hotel draws inspiration from the city’s lush gardens, with an inviting palette of warm earth tones and elegant greenery throughout its interiors. Guests are welcomed into a serene retreat, complete with thoughtfully curated amenities such as a stunning guests-only rooftop terrace offering views of Charleston’s historic skyline. Each room is designed for comfort and style, featuring plush bedding, bespoke furnishings, and modern touches that elevate the stay. Located steps from Waterfront Park and the Charleston City Market, The Loutrel offers easy access to the city’s most iconic sights while providing a peaceful escape from the bustling streets. Perfect for travelers seeking an elegant escape that combines comfort, style, and personalized service, all within steps of Charleston’s historic heart.


Photo credits: The Loutrel



The French Quarter Inn


Tucked away on a quiet corner just off Market Street, The French Quarter Inn is a sanctuary of understated luxury and Southern charm. This boutique hotel is known for its warm hospitality, offering thoughtful touches like welcome champagne, nightly turndown service with sweet treats, and an indulgent pillow menu for personalized comfort. The rooms, elegantly styled with soft hues and classic details, create a serene retreat in the heart of the city. Guests can start their mornings with a complimentary artisanal breakfast and unwind in the evening with wine and cheese receptions. Its central location provides easy access to the Historic City Market and a short stroll to King Street’s renowned shopping district, making The French Quarter Inn a perfect choice for travelers seeking a refined, intimate escape with every detail carefully considered.


Photo credits: The French Quarter Inn



Hotel Emeline


A chic departure from Charleston’s more traditional stays, Hotel Emeline offers a fresh, modern take on Southern hospitality. Tucked just steps from the Historic City Market, this boutique hotel is a favorite among style-savvy travelers, blending contemporary design with vintage-inspired details. Rooms and suites are thoughtfully curated with bespoke furnishings, custom textiles, and record players, creating a cozy yet refined retreat. Guests can enjoy locally roasted coffee from Clerks Coffee Company and dine at the hotel’s popular restaurant, Frannie & The Fox, known for its wood-fired fare and lively courtyard. With a focus on curated experiences and warm, personable service, Hotel Emeline appeals to travelers seeking a modern, boutique vibe without sacrificing Charleston’s signature charm.


Photo credits: Hotel Emeline



The Vendue


For art lovers and creatives, The Vendue offers an inspired stay in the heart of Charleston’s French Quarter. Known as Charleston’s Art Hotel, this one-of-a-kind property blends historic charm with contemporary flair, featuring rotating art exhibitions and an in-house artist-in-residence program. Housed in a collection of restored 18th-century warehouses, The Vendue exudes character, from its exposed brick walls to its unique, art-filled spaces. Guests are welcomed with champagne at check-in and can enjoy complimentary daily events such as wine receptions and art tours. The hotel is also home to The Rooftop, one of Charleston’s most popular spots for sweeping views of the harbor and skyline. Located on East Bay Street and less than a block from Waterfront Park, The Vendue offers a creative, cultural experience for travelers seeking a stay as distinctive as the city itself.


Photo credits: The Vendue



HarbourView Inn


Offering some of the best views in the city, HarbourView Inn is a charming waterfront retreat nestled along Charleston’s picturesque harbor. Located just steps from Waterfront Park, this boutique hotel provides a peaceful escape with elegant rooms featuring coastal-inspired décor, exposed brick accents, and balconies with corner units with water views. Guests can enjoy thoughtful touches like a complimentary artisanal breakfast delivered to their room or enjoyed on the rooftop terrace with gorgeous views of the harbor, as well as wine and cheese receptions each evening. The hotel’s central location places travelers within walking distance of the Historic City Market, Rainbow Row, and Charleston’s iconic cobblestone streets. Perfect for those who want to experience the city’s charm while savoring tranquil harbor views, HarbourView Inn strikes a balance between refined luxury and relaxed coastal comfort.


Photo credits: HarbourView Inn


 

Pause Point: Take a moment to imagine the gentle clip-clop of horse-drawn carriages echoing down cobblestone streets. Stroll past pastel façades with wrought-iron balconies, and breathe in the salty breeze from the harbor. Here, history and modern life converge—where will your footsteps lead you next?

 


Upper King Street & Marion Square Area: Vibrant Energy and Modern Style

For travelers deciding where to stay in Charleston who enjoy a lively, bustling atmosphere, the Upper King Street and Marion Square area offers a dynamic blend of past and present. Once part of the city’s historic commercial district, this neighborhood has evolved into a hub for boutique shopping, stylish dining, and lively events, while retaining its architectural character and deep-rooted history. The area surrounding Marion Square, a historic gathering place dating back to the 18th century, is often filled with farmers markets, art fairs, and seasonal celebrations, making it an ever-changing, engaging part of the city. Upper King Street appeals to those who want immediate access to Charleston’s shopping and dining scene, along with a taste of the city’s evolving culture. Perfect for travelers looking for energy and excitement, this area brings the city’s livelier side to life while remaining steeped in history.



The Dewberry


Effortlessly blending mid-century modern style with Southern sophistication, The Dewberry offers a refined, understated luxury experience in the heart of Charleston. Located on Meeting Street, just one block from King, the hotel enjoys a quieter setting while remaining steps from the city’s bustling shopping and dining district. Housed in a meticulously restored 1960s Federal building overlooking Marion Square, The Dewberry is known for its elegant design, impeccable service, and thoughtful, curated details. The guest rooms feature custom-made furnishings, Irish linen bedding, and marble baths, creating a serene retreat with a timeless feel. Guests can relax in the Living Room, a stylish lobby lounge serving craft coffee and cocktails, or visit the Citrus Club, Charleston’s highest rooftop bar, offering panoramic views of the Holy City. Ideal for travelers seeking both style and tranquility, The Dewberry strikes a perfect balance between refined luxury and convenient access to Charleston’s lively Upper King Street area.


Photo credits: The Dewberry



Hotel Bennett


A crown jewel of Charleston’s hospitality scene, Hotel Bennett combines grand European-style elegance with Southern grace, making it one of the city’s most luxurious stays. Located on King Street and overlooking Marion Square, this stately hotel features marble-clad interiors, opulent chandeliers, and refined guest rooms that blend classic sophistication with modern comfort. Guests can enjoy indulgent amenities, including a rooftop pool with stunning city views, a full-service spa, and the elegant Camellias champagne lounge, renowned for its pink marble bar and refined atmosphere. The on-site restaurant, Gabrielle, offers seasonal Lowcountry fare with a view of the square. Perfectly situated for exploring King Street’s shopping district, Hotel Bennett provides an experience of timeless luxury in one of Charleston’s most vibrant areas.


Photo credits: Hotel Bennett



Zero George Street


Tucked away on a quiet, tree-lined street just beyond the bustle of Upper King, Zero George Street offers an intimate boutique experience that exudes historic charm and refined elegance. Set within a collection of restored 19th-century homes, this hidden gem invites guests to step into a world of Southern sophistication, complete with piazzas, lush courtyards, and classic Charleston architecture. The hotel’s thoughtfully curated interiors feature vintage décor, original heart pine floors, and period details that create an inviting blend of old-world charm and modern comfort. Zero George’s culinary experience is a standout, with an on-site Cooking School and award-winning restaurant, offering a tasting menu focused on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. For those seeking a quiet, luxurious retreat that feels like a step back in time, while remaining just a short stroll from Charleston’s lively center, Zero George Street is the epitome of understated elegance. 


Photo credits: Zero George Street



 

Pause Point: Picture yourself stepping out into the lively hum of Upper King Street, where Charleston’s creative energy shines. Notice the historic buildings mingling with modern boutiques and cafés. What discoveries will you make as you explore the city’s more vibrant side?

 


South of Broad: Historic Grandeur and Quiet Streets

For travelers seeking a quiet, refined stay surrounded by Charleston’s most historic homes, the South of Broad neighborhood offers a glimpse into the city’s most exclusive residential area. Known for its stately antebellum mansions, hidden gardens, and tree-lined cobblestone streets, this iconic district is home to some of Charleston’s most elegant and storied addresses. Here, life slows to a graceful pace, with leisurely strolls along The Battery, moss-draped oak trees, and piazzas overlooking White Point Garden setting the tone for an immersive experience in Charleston’s past. This may be the ideal area to stay in Charleston for those seeking tranquility, history, and timeless charm, a stay South of Broad invites guests to step back in time while enjoying luxurious, personalized hospitality in some of the city’s most treasured inns and historic homes.



20 South Battery


A true hidden gem, 20 South Battery offers an intimate, historic stay in one of Charleston’s most iconic antebellum mansions. Nestled along the prestigious Battery promenade, this boutique hotel is surrounded by Charleston’s most famous historic homes, offering guests a rare opportunity to experience the grandeur of the city’s past. Built in 1843 and meticulously restored, the mansion features elegant rooms adorned with antique furnishings, original fireplaces, and exquisite architectural details. Guests are welcomed with personalized service and thoughtful touches like a daily wine and cheese reception in the grand drawing room. Overlooking White Point Garden, the property provides a peaceful, residential feel while remaining a short stroll from the vibrant French Quarter. Ideal for travelers seeking a refined, immersive Charleston experience, 20 South Battery blends timeless sophistication with modern comforts in an unmatched historic setting. 


Photo credits: 20 South Battery



John Rutledge House Inn


For a stay infused with Charleston’s early history, John Rutledge House Inn offers a rare opportunity to sleep in a National Historic Landmark that dates back to 1763. Once the home of John Rutledge, a signer of the U.S. Constitution, this stately Federal-style mansion has been lovingly preserved to showcase its ornate plasterwork, grand fireplaces, and original architectural details. Located on Broad Street, in the heart of Charleston’s most prestigious residential district, the inn feels like a step back in time with modern comforts thoughtfully woven in. Guests can enjoy breakfast on the piazza or in the courtyard, afternoon tea, and evening cordials, all part of the property’s commitment to Southern hospitality. Situated on Broad Street, the inn is perfectly positioned for exploring South of Broad’s stately mansions and cobblestone streets, as well as the vibrant French Quarter, offering an elegant, immersive stay in one of Charleston’s most treasured historic homes. 


Photo credits: John Rutledge House Inn



 

Pause Point: Imagine wandering through Charleston’s most storied streets, where grand homes whisper secrets of the past and hidden gardens beckon from behind wrought-iron gates. Feel the quiet elegance that defines South of Broad—a neighborhood where time seems to stand still. What stories will you uncover as you linger here?

 


A Gilded Age Retreat: Timeless Elegance at Wentworth Mansion

Step back into Charleston’s Gilded Age with a stay at Wentworth Mansion. Impeccably preserved and steeped in history, this grand estate exudes timeless elegance and Southern charm. From the opulent rooftop cupola offering panoramic views to suites adorned with original Tiffany glass and Italian chandeliers, Wentworth Mansion is a true masterpiece of refined luxury.


Wentworth Mansion


A true Gilded Age gem, Wentworth Mansion offers a stay steeped in grandeur and history, embodying the height of Southern luxury in Charleston. Built in 1886 as a private residence, this stunning Italianate mansion has been meticulously restored, showcasing original Tiffany stained-glass windows, intricate woodwork, and hand-carved marble fireplaces. The guest rooms, each uniquely designed, feature spacious layouts, whirlpool tubs, and antique furnishings, blending 19th-century opulence with modern comforts. Guests can indulge in a complimentary Southern breakfast at the on-site Circa 1886 Restaurant, a celebrated dining experience housed in the mansion’s former carriage house, or enjoy afternoon wine and hors d'oeuvres in the parlor. Located on a quiet residential street just west of King, Wentworth Mansion offers an elegant retreat that feels like a step back in time, while still being within walking distance of Charleston’s historic districts and cultural landmarks. Perfect for those seeking a refined, romantic getaway with unmatched charm and hospitality, this grand estate is one of Charleston’s most iconic stays. 


Photo credits: Wentworth Mansion



 

Pause Point: Imagine stepping into a grand Gilded Age mansion, where stained-glass windows glow in the afternoon light and marble fireplaces tell stories of a bygone era. In this timeless setting, what moments of quiet luxury will you discover?

 


An Elegant Stay: Where to Experience Charleston’s History and Charm

Charleston’s charm lies not only in its cobblestone streets, historic landmarks, and rich cultural heritage, but also in its hospitality and gracious living. Choosing where to stay in Charleston is an essential part of immersing yourself in the city’s timeless appeal. Whether you seek the refined tranquility of South of Broad, the vibrant energy of Upper King, or the intimate elegance of Charleston’s grand historic homes, each of these properties offers an experience steeped in history, comfort, and charm.


From luxurious mansions to stylish boutique hotels, Charleston’s accommodations invite travelers to slow down, savor the moment, and connect deeply with the city's past and present. Wherever you choose to stay, you’ll find Southern hospitality at its finest, ensuring that your time in Charleston is as memorable and meaningful as the city itself.


 

Pause Point: Imagine wandering through Charleston’s most storied streets, where grand homes whisper secrets of the past and hidden gardens beckon from behind wrought-iron gates. Feel the quiet elegance that defines South of Broad—a neighborhood where time seems to stand still. What stories will you uncover as you linger here?

 

Want insider tips?

Discover Charleston through the eyes of a Local Curator. Sign up for Living Charleston to receive curated events, insider picks, and thoughtful inspiration every week.

start here

EDITOR'S PICKS

Spread of Lowcountry inspired dishes at The Grocery, showcasing fresh ingredients that reflect the flavors found across the top Charleston restaurants."

Discover the heart of Charleston’s culinary scene, where 11 of the best restaurants showcase the city’s Lowcountry cuisine and culture through unforgettable flavors.

Rainbow Row in Charleston, an iconic must-see featured in ‘17 Iconic Must-Sees in Charleston, SC,’ highlighting the city’s vibrant historic district.

Discover Charleston’s most captivating sights while avoiding the tourist traps. From hidden gems to iconic landmarks

Sunrise in Charleston over Shem Creek, one of the best spots to catch a vibrant pink, yellow, and blue sunrise, as featured in ‘Sunrise in Charleston: Best Places From a Local.

For a gorgeous display of colors, birds, dolphins and solitude that make sunrise in Charleston SC a must-see, here are 7 favorite places.

Rooftop view from the Citrus Club at The Dewberry, a local favorite in Charleston, showcasing the city skyline.

Journey beyond the well-trodden tourist trails and dive into the heart of what locals do to savor the slow life in Charleston.

Discover Charleston from a Local Curator: events, insights + must-visit spots!

You're Invited

charleston and me newsletter

Want Insider Tips?

Discover Charleston through the eyes of a Local Curator. Sign up for Living Charleston to receive curated events, insider picks, and thoughtful inspiration every week.

SUBSCRIBE

it's free.

Your Guide to Charleston's Timeless Elegance

CONTACT US

say hello.

all rights reserved. copyright 2024

bottom of page