Best Tours in Charleston, South Carolina for Couples
Charleston is a lovely place to visit as a couple, and taking a tour gives you a chance to explore one of the most romantic cities from a unique perspective. But with so many tours to choose from, how do you know which ones are best for couples?
Instead of spending hours researching tours in The Holy City, we’ve narrowed down the best tours in Charleston, SC, that are perfect for you and your beau.
Whether it’s an intimate carriage ride, an informative walking tour, or a sunset sailboat cruise, there are plenty of ways to experience the food, culture, and flavors of Charleston. And, to make your romantic getaway truly unforgettable, we’ve added insider tips that only locals share!
Get ready for all the romance, history, and Southern charm you can handle with these top tours in Charleston, SC.
Historic Charleston Carriage Tours
Learn about the rich history of the Holy City with a carriage tour! You and your better half will get an up-close and personal look at the city’s historic sites and bustling sounds. These history tours offer both group tours and private tours, giving you the option to spend quality time together as you set off through the streets of Charleston with a knowledgeable guide.
Snuggle up and enjoy the sights of beautiful gardens, mansions, and more. This hour-long tour is offered during the day or in the evening, giving you a chance to experience the charm of Charleston at different times of the day. It’s a great way to see the city and learn about its past while embracing its romantic atmosphere.
Insider tip: Our favorite carriage tour is Palmetto Carriage Works. They offer a private tour option for couples and take you through 25-30 blocks of Charleston’s historic downtown district.
Charleston’s Savor the Flavor Tours
Some of the most popular tours in Charleston, SC, are the Charleston culinary tours. Savor the Flavor offers multiple tours that take you on a journey through some of Charleston’s most well-known flavors.
From shrimp and grits to Lowcountry boil, you’ll have the opportunity to try it all. On this tour, you and your partner will be taken through a variety of restaurants, tasting some of Charleston’s most iconic dishes.
A few of these tours even offer a hands-on cooking adventure, where you join a culinary expert who will help you prepare some famous South Carolina dishes. With small group sizes and top-tier tour guides, this tour provides a unique and intimate experience for couples. Here is a list of our favorite Savor the Flavor tours:
- Savor the Flavors of Upper King: This tour allows you to sample some of the best foods from Lowcountry cuisine.
- Savor the Flavors of Charleston: Experience all the flavors Charleston is known for with the city’s original walking food tour.
- Savor the Flavor of South of Broad: Enjoy food tastings and see two historic homes as you stroll through points of interest in Charleston’s prominent neighborhood.
Insider tip: Looking for another great place to eat? Check out Lewis Barbecue for some of the best barbecue in Charleston!
Hotel recommendation
Wentworth Mansion
Stay in a historic hotel with an appreciation for Charleston’s art scene. Enjoy fine dining, spa services, and exclusive access to a 1928 Model A Ford Sport Coupe. The Wentworth Mansion, built in 1886, offers elegance, luxury, and impeccable service. It’s the ideal spot for a romantic getaway, located in the historic district near downtown’s historical sites.
Charleston Food and Wine Tours
In addition to the Savor the Flavor tours in Charleston, SC, the city also offers a variety of food and wine tours that you can experience with your love. These tour packages offer exclusive access to Charleston’s most respected restaurants and bars. Here are a couple of our favs:
- Tea Garden and Winery Tour: This is the only tea garden in America, and for tea lovers, it’s the ultimate destination. While you are there, you can visit the Deep Water Winery to taste their flavors, enjoy the walking trails, and learn more about the process of growing and harvesting the grapes to make the wine.
- Firefly Distillery: Capture the true essence of the Lowcountry by taking a trip to the Firefly Distillery. The local guides will teach you about the distillation process, followed by sampling spirits in the tasting rooms. Afterward, enjoy the live music on the deck as you sip on some of your favorite drinks! There are also plenty of local food trucks nearby for a nice lunch.
Insider tip: Try the sweet tea vodka, a Charleston favorite!
Romantic Tours and Experiences
The Schooner Pride offers a two-hour sailing tour that lets you set sail off into the sunset. You can bring snacks, and drinks can be purchased right from the boat.
During this boat tour, you and your sweetie will see the impressive Arthur Ravenel Jr. bridge, the four forts of Charleston Harbor, and maybe catch a glimpse of dolphins or pelicans! It’ll be a memorable experience, for sure.
Some other romantic experiences include:
- The Morris Island Lighthouse: One of the most iconic landmarks that has also become a popular kayaking and boating destination. Couples can take guided boat tours or a trip to the island by kayak or boat.
- The Magnolia Plantation: One of the (if not the) best plantation tours in Charleston! Enjoy a walk through a large-scale romantic garden or see the natural wildlife that surrounds the plantation. No matter what you do, this beautiful place will take your breath away.
If you’re up for a full day of sightseeing and traveling, add the plantation tour package to the Charleston Harbor tour package. It’s a relaxing cruise that takes you through the beauty of Charleston Harbor. You’ll explore the area’s beautiful landscape and learn more about the impressive historic buildings along the way.
Insider tip: Don’t miss the famous Magnolia Plantation peacocks wandering around the estate! (but also watch out, they can be super aggressive…speaking from personal experience).
Planning Your Charleston Weekend Getaway
start planning…
Packing Essentials
When you’re planning a romantic getaway in Charleston, it’s important to pack the right things to make your trip as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. Here are some essential items to include in your packing list:
Comfortable walking shoes
Charleston is known for its cobblestone streets and historic districts, which are best explored on foot. Bring comfortable walking shoes to avoid sore feet and blisters.
Lightweight clothing
Charleston can get quite hot and humid, especially in the summer months. Pack lightweight, breathable clothes to stay cool and comfortable while exploring the city.
Sun protection
With plenty of outdoor activities like walking tours and beach visits, sun protection is a must. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Southern Living at its Finest
Hundreds of years of Charleston history can be found in every corner of the city. From food and wine tours to carriage rides and romantic experiences, there is no shortage of tours in Charleston, SC, to get a taste of Southern living at its finest.
With these romantic and historic tours, you can fully immerse yourself in the charm and beauty of this amazing city with your loved one by your side. So go ahead, book a tour or two, and get ready to create memorable Charleston experiences together!
Have you been on a historic Charleston tour? Share your experience in the comments below. We’d love to hear from you! If you’re looking for more travel tips on planning a romantic getaway, subscribe to our newsletter!
Tours in Charleston, SC – FAQs
What is the best month to visit Charleston, SC?
The best time to visit Charleston is during the spring months of March-May or the fall months of September-November when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists.
How many days do you need to tour Charleston, SC?
We recommend planning at least 3 days to get a good taste of what Charleston has to offer. However, if you have more time, it’s definitely worth exploring the city for longer to truly immerse yourself in its charm and history.
Is Charleston a walkable town?
Yes! Charleston’s historic district is very walkable and best explored on foot. Just note that it’s not at all walkable outside of the city’s historic district. However, the city also offers other forms of transportation, such as bike rentals, horse-drawn carriage tours, and free trolley rides.
