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Charleston is one of the top getaways in the Southeast United States! This city is perfect for a romantic retreat, a mother-daughter getaway, or a girls’ trip. Charleston is also one of the best budget cities in the U.S. So I’ve rounded up the top VRBOs in downtown Charleston, SC.
Plan The Perfect Trip To Charleston
These vacation homes are a great way to experience Charleston’s “Southern hospitality” and explore the city like a local.
Here are the best VRBOs in downtown Charleston, SC to inspire your next trip!
The Ruby Bell
8 guests3 bedrooms5 beds2 baths
This upper-level apartment has a quintessential Charleston “feel” with palm trees outside and early 1800s architecture. The apartment is furnished with a mix of local antiques, mid-century furniture, and modern amenities. You’ll have a stylish balcony, and you’ll be in an ideal location in the historic center of downtown.
Romantic Retreat
2 guests1 bedroom1 bed baths
This two-story penthouse will make you feel like you’re at a boutique hotel. The apartment has beautiful hardwood floors, tall ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a fabulous patio. You’ll be in a historic neighborhood just a short walk from the city’s most popular restaurants, shopping, and entertainment.
Cozy Island Cottage
6 guests2 bedrooms2 beds1 bath
Located between Folly Beach and downtown Charleston, this cottage is perfect for a couple, a mother-daughter trip, or a small group of friends. You’ll have 17-foot cathedral ceilings, two smart TVs, a laundry room, grill, deck, and an outdoor shower for rinsing off after a day at the beach. This property also comes with beach chairs, a beach umbrella, a cooler, and a portable speaker.
BOHO Rosa
16 guests bedrooms beds5 baths
You can bring your whole crew to this colorful, renovated historic home. The house has a mixture of antique furniture, modern design, and original artwork. You’ll have a separate carriage house, an outdoor courtyard, off-street private parking, beautiful porches, and multiple living, kitchen, and dining spaces.
Garden Carriage House
6 guests bedrooms beds baths
You’ll find peace and serenity at this 1823 gothic revival carriage house (the oldest in this style in the city). This historic home has an original brick fireplace, antique furniture, exposed wood beams, and daily complimentary breakfast. You’ll be surrounded by award-winning gardens with walking paths, outdoor dining, and off-street parking.
Private Yacht
8 guests bedrooms beds baths
If you want a unique, one-of-a-kind stay that’s an homage to the nautical history of Charleston, then this property is for you. You’ll have stunning views of Charleston Harbor, and dolphin sightings are common.
The Mint Julep House
12 guests5 bedrooms5 beds5 baths
This spacious, two-story home will welcome you with a cozy aesthetic, trendy decor, spa-like bathrooms, an espresso machine, and room for your whole crew. You’ll be in a prime location just a short walk from King Street and its restaurants, bars, and shops.
The Nantucket
8 guests3 bedrooms4 beds2.5 baths
This luxurious second-story apartment will be your urban oasis. You’ll have spa-like bathrooms, access to a heated swimming pool, a private porch, historic charm, and modern amenities. Plus, this home is pet-friendly, comes with two parking spots, and is in the heart of downtown Charleston.
Recommended Tours in Charleston
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What are your favorite VRBOs in downtown Charleston, SC? Share with us in the comments below!
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VRBOs in Downtown Charleston, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
How far apart are Charleston and Savannah?
Savannah is about 100 miles south of Charleston, and it takes about two hours to drive between these cities.
What is the best time of year to go to Charleston, SC?
Charleston is one of the Best Destinations To Visit In April. Temperatures will be pleasant in the 60s in March and 80s in May, but the humidity won’t be sweltering yet. Tourist numbers and prices will be on the rise, but still less than in the summer months. The magnolia trees will be blooming, and the Charleston Food + Wine Festival is held in March.
Charleston is hot and humid from June – August. So bring your hat and sunscreen, and always have water with you. The city has its highest prices and crowds of the year during these months, so you’ll want to book accommodation and tours in advance. August is the rainiest month of the year, so make sure you have rain gear and remember that rain in the Southeast in summer doesn’t make it cooler; it makes it more humid.
Fall brings pleasant weather in the 70s and significantly less humidity than in the summer months. If you’re a foodie, then Autumn is the time to visit. Charleston Restaurant Week is in September, and Taste of Charleston is in October. This is the shoulder season, so crowds and prices will be lower than in the summer, though the city can still be crowded on the weekends.
December – February is also a great time to visit because temperatures usually don’t go below 50 in the day and 40 at night. The Holiday Festival of Lights happens in December, and the Lowcountry Oyster Festival is in January. As long as you avoid the holidays, Charleston is a very affordable destination during these months.
Is Charleston a walkable city?
The historic city center of Charleston is very walkable. One of my favorite things to do here is a walking tour of the French Quarter and Rainbow Row, Broad Street, Waterfront Park, and King Street.
But public transportation in the city is minimal. So if you want to visit the nearby beaches or islands, you’ll need to have a car or use a rideshare app or.
Is Charleston or Savannah better to visit?
Charleston and Savannah are both incredible destinations, and they will each give you very different experiences.
Charleston is usually more popular, expensive, and crowded than Savannah, and Charleston has a bigger city “vibe.”
Savannah is traditionally less-visited with a “chiller” vibe than Charleston. Both cities have fantastic foodie scenes, great outdoor activities, beautiful architecture, and fascinating histories, so I highly recommend visiting both of these places!
What is there to do in Charleston, SC in 3 days?
If you only have three days in Charleston, then prioritize these activities:
1. Walking tour of the city that includes the French Quarter and Rainbow Row, Broad Street, Waterfront Park, and King Street
2. Walk along The Battery and marvel at the mansions facing Charleston Harbor
3. Visit the Aiken-Rhett House Museum
4. See Angel Oak Tree, the largest living oak tree east of the Mississippi River
5. Do a craft brewery tour
6. Browse the Charleston City Market
7. Tour Fort Sumter National Monument
8. Visit the Nathaniel Russell House Museum
9. Explore Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens
10. Lounge on a beach in Isle of Palms County Park
What do I need to know before going to Charleston, SC?
When you visit Charleston, I urge you to educate yourself about the history of slavery in the U.S. Many of Charleston’s plantations, statues, and historic landmarks are dedicated to raising awareness about racism. So don’t ignore this history; learn from it.
How many days do you need to visit Charleston, SC?
Give yourself at least 3-4 days to explore Charleston. This will give you plenty of time to experience the historic downtown, enjoy the food scene, hit the beach, and take a day trip.
What should I not miss in Charleston, SC?
Top Things To Do In Charleston:
1. Walking tour of the city that includes the French Quarter and Rainbow Row, Broad Street, Waterfront Park, and King Street
2. Walk along The Battery and marvel at the mansions facing Charleston Harbor
3. Visit the Aiken-Rhett House Museum
4. See Angel Oak Tree, the largest living oak tree east of the Mississippi River
5. Do a craft brewery tour
6. Browse the Charleston City Market
7. Tour Fort Sumter National Monument
8. Visit the Nathaniel Russell House Museum
9. Explore Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens
10. Lounge on a beach in Isle of Palms County Park
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This article about the best VRBOs in downtown Charleston, SC is not a sponsored post, and the thoughts and opinions expressed in this post are entirely my own. Some of the links in this post about the best VRBOs in downtown Charleston, SC are affiliate links, and, at no cost to you, I may earn a small commission.
