Charleston City Sightseeing Bus Tour

From$37
1h 30m
Charleston, USA

About this activity

Experience Charleston's rich history and charm on a guided bus tour, visiting landmarks like Rainbow Row and Waterfront Park.

Highlights

  • Explore historic downtown Charleston
  • Visit the iconic Rainbow Row
  • See the beautiful Waterfront Park
  • Discover the historic Aiken Rhett House
  • Enjoy views from the Charleston Maritime Center

Full description

Discover the enchanting city of Charleston on this comprehensive bus tour, where you'll journey through its storied streets and picturesque neighborhoods. Marvel at the colorful facades of Rainbow Row, stroll through the serene Waterfront Park, and delve into the past at the historic Aiken Rhett House. Your knowledgeable local guide will share captivating tales and insights, bringing the city's rich heritage to life. Whether you're a history buff or a first-time visitor, this tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into Charleston's unique charm.

Included / Excluded

  • Guided bus tour of Charleston's historic sites
  • Transportation to key landmarks
  • Expert commentary from local guides
  • Meals and beverages

Itinerary

1

Departing from the Charleston Visitor Center in the late morning through mid-afternoon, this sightseeing tour includes a fully-guided, live-narrated trip throughout the city. Be entertained by knowledgeable guides and learn the history about some of the most historical sites Charleston has to offer, including the Citadel, the South's most famous military academy, and the Old City Market. See amazing gardens, wrought iron art, many of the city's 210 churches, and so much more.  This tour is non-stop, but there will be a quick stop at the Battery for a photo opportunity. This area of Charleston is a beautiful spot on the waterfront and will showcase incredible southern-style mansions, oak trees, palmettos, statues, cannons and cannon balls, and marvelous views of Fort Sumter, Castle Pinckney, and the Sullivan Island Lighthouse at a distance.

Admission: YES
2

Pass by: Learn the history about some of the most historical sites Charleston has to offer, including the Citadel, the South's most famous military academy

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
3

Pass by: Pass by Old City Market

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
4

This tour is non-stop, but there will be a quick stop at the Battery for a photo opportunity. This area of Charleston is a beautiful spot on the waterfront and will showcase incredible southern-style mansions, oak trees, palmettos, statues, cannons and cannon balls, and marvelous views of Fort Sumter, Castle Pinckney, and the Sullivan Island Lighthouse at a distance.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
5

Pass by: Enjoy views of Fort Sumter

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
6

Pass by: Enjoy views of the Sullivan Island Lighthouse at a distance.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
7

Pass by: Pass by the Powder Magazine

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
8

Pass by: Enjoy views of Castle Pinckney at a distance.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Meeting point

Start Location

Unknown location

Important information

Know before you book

  • Tour operates rain or shine; cancellations due to weather are rare.
  • Children under 5 can join for free if seated on a parent's lap.
  • Pets are not permitted on the tour.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for sitting and light walking.
  • Bring a camera to capture the city's scenic beauty.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Service Animals Allowed
  • Easy Public Transport
  • Infants Required On Laps

Good to know

  • No pets. Service animals are allowed

Traveler reviews

4.5
1,069 reviews
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Great tour. Would recommend

Anderson was fantastic! Fun. Knowledgeable and professional. We not only were entertained, we had a history lesson.

Meredith_CJul 2, 2026VIATOR

Enjoyed the whole tour

Great experience and great tour guide

michellebO7862WUJun 27, 2026TRIPADVISOR

I've been on many city...

I've been on many city tours throughout Europe and the USA, and Scott's tour of Charleston was the best I've ever experienced! He is very knowledgeable, informative, and speaks very clearly. All while expertly navigating the streets of Charleston!

Grant_TJun 26, 2026VIATOR

Great way to see parts of...

Great way to see parts of the city and learn some history at the same time! Anderson was very knowledgeable and personable!

Amber_EJun 21, 2026VIATOR

Great tour

Great knowledge of Charleston. I don’t remember the drivers name but he was very polite and professional. Would definitely recommend.

Linda_KJun 20, 2026VIATOR

Additional information

No pets. Service animals are allowed