The 4 Best Private History Tours in Charleston

1.Semi-private SMALL group Historic Walking Tours w/certified guide

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 224 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $35Our pick

Spend about two hours walking Charleston with a certified guide such as Steve Bailey, Kay, Kate, or Russ. Expect a small English-language group, old homes and churches, the Four Corners of Law, the Charleston Battery, and plenty of time for questions. The route ends near Dock Street Theatre.

“Steve’s tour of Old Charleston was the highlight of our stay. He’s a “binyah,” and his lifelong knowledge of the area came out through his detailed stories as we visited many fascinating sites around the city. He also seems to know everyone, and lots of people we ran into clearly know him, too. Highly recommended!”

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2.Private Photo Session in Historic Charleston

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 123 reviews · 1 to 2 hours (approx.) · from $125

Meet Dennis at 79 E Bay St for a private one to two-hour photo walk in historic Charleston. Expect guided posing, relaxed humor, and portraits around Rainbow Row, with possible stops at cobbled lanes, cozy alleys, and avenues of oaks. The experience is in English and ends where it starts.

“Dennis was super impressive! We had a great time with girls trip photos on rainbow row. Great personality and worked fast with turnaround.”

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3.Private Historic Horse & Carriage Tour of Charleston

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 103 reviews · 50 minutes (approx.)

Ride through Charleston’s historic district in a private carriage for up to four people. Your professional guide handles the driving and storytelling, with past guides such as Daniel, Ricky, Kiki, and Dr. Tim praised for humor and local detail. Routes vary by city direction, so sights are not guaranteed.

“The guide we had was great, very informative, learnt a lot about the history, took us around many of the old buildings, we had a great time and would do it again”

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4.Private Morning Sail, Dolphin and History Tour on Mystique

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 84 reviews · 2 hours (approx.)

Join Charleston Sailing Charters for a private morning sail aboard Mystique, limited to your group of up to six. Your skipper and first mate guide you past the Battery, Ravenel Bridge, Yorktown, and sometimes Fort Sumter, with drinks, shade, a restroom, and chances to spot dolphins.

“Had an amazing time sailing with Rob and Mattie! It was exactly what we hoped for….a beautiful peaceful morning with wonderful brunch by Caviar & Bananas (highly recommend!!). Rob and Mattie took great care of us and made it a very special part of our time in Charleston! If you’re considering booking…do it! You won’t be disappointed!!”

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