This is a collection of photos I compiled into a quick city guide from my solo trip in 2019. I have since been back to most of these locations but did not take updated photos.

~ Where to stay ~

I would recommend this Airbnb. The rental included the full second story master bedroom and bath on a beautiful property. The home, which was also inhabited by the family that owned it, was surprising very quiet. The hosts were super accommodating and even served me a delicious home-cooked breakfast before I headed out in the morning.

~ Where to eat~

🦞🥪 167 Raw had been highly recommended to me. I ordered the oyster poboy to-go so I could walk around the city market before my ghost tour, hence the car shot. I’ve eaten a lot of food while traveling and this was one of my most favorite things I can remember eating. I can’t recall what the sauce was but it was very unique and worth the wait times at 167 Raw.

 🦀🍤 I stumbled across Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar on my way back from a guided photowalk I had participated in. I chose a quiet corner spot in the back and enjoyed the sampler: oysters, shrimp cocktail, clams and muscles. It was so fresh and came with an assortment of dipping sauces. I’ve since gone back and had this again!

🍋🍰 Across the street from Amen’s is Carmela’s, a cafe & dessert bar featured in many magazines and publications. The lemon tarte was to die for. It had a sweet crust layered with tangy lemon curd and vanilla whipped cream. I’ve had this twice now and highly recommend this shop as they have a super unique dessert menu.

~ What to do ~

Take a cemetery or ghost tour- I love to do this when visiting a new city. They are essentially historical tours with a macabre twist. It’s a great way to get to know a city. Charleston is a very old city with a lot of dark and fascinating history. Look for a ghost tour that will take you to grave sights, frequent ghost haunts and famous murder/death locations like Philadelphia Alley pictured below.

Join a photo walking tour and explore the city. I love photo tours because you can enjoy a guided tour from a local, a history lesson and a photography lesson while also having your photo taken. Bonus points for supporting a small business or individual. Charleston is a charming city and has some beautiful architecture. The window boxes, wrought iron and brick work are very well-known Charleston characteristics. It has a more mature and sophisticated, but similar feel, to New Orleans or Savannah.

Visit the Battery. The Battery is a landmark defensive seawall named for a civil-war coastal defense artillery battery at this location. It’s a beautiful area for a walk with the water on one side and beautiful homes on the other.

Visit the historic City Market in downtown Charleston. The market is an old flea market filled with performers, music, and lots of specialty, handmade and novelty items. Walk on through the open-concept market and enjoy the atmosphere of downtown Charleston.

Have you been to Charleston? I’d love to hear about your favorite places to visit.