The Best Hotels in Charleston, SC: 5 Lovely Choices

From The Dewberry to Zero George, the best hotels in Charleston, SC put Southern charm and luxury on full display. Read on for five of our favorite choices, plus learn how to unlock VIP perks when you book your stay with us.

Alternatively: connect with Fora to plan and book your trip with expert suggestions according to your preferences. We’ll help you decide which of the best hotels in Charleston fits your travel style while scoring you A+ perks (at no extra cost) along the way. 

Need itinerary suggestions, too? No problem! Whether you’re throwing a classy Charleston bachelorette party or enjoying a quick, 3-day family getaway in Charleston, we can help you build a travel plan that checks all the boxes and then some.

The 5 best hotels in Charleston, SC

From The Dewberry to Zero George, here are the five best hotels in Charleston, SC. 

1. The Dewberry Charleston: a historic boutique hotel near King Street 

Image courtesy of The Dewberry Charleston

The Dewberry is a charming and luxurious hotel right in the heart of Charleston that features a mid-century, “Southern Reimagined” theme. Throughout its ornate halls and corridors, you’ll find vintage furnishings and contemporary Southern decor for an ambiance that’s classy and regal, yet crisp and functional. 

The hotel’s located in a quiet corner of historic Charleston between Marion and Wragg squares, yet only a block away from King Street, where you’ll find tons of trendy boutiques, restaurants and bars. 

Want the full scoop? Check out our review of The Dewberry. Or book and plan your trip with Fora to level up your stay.

Fora Perks at The Dewberry:

• $100 food / beverage credit.

• Breakfast daily.

• Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
  
  

2. The Charleston Place: an elegant hotel exhibiting classic Southern luxury

Image courtesy of The Charleston Place

Aptly named, The Charleston Place captures the city’s elegance and puts it on full display. Whereas The Dewberry makes something new out of classic Southern luxury, The Charleston Place leans very much into the traditional upscale Southern experience: the decor is grandiose and sumptuous, and feels wholly in tune with the city’s historic roots.

In terms of location, this ritzy choice is one of the best hotels in Charleston, SC. And many of the city’s best attractions are well within walking distance (our 4-day Charleston itinerary has ideas, BTW). Even better, The Charleston Place offers free bike rentals to all guests. 

Fora Perks at The Charleston Place:

• Food / beverage credit.

• Breakfast daily.

• Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
  
  

3. Emeline: a gorgeous hotel that still sources inspiration from Charleston’s historic past

Emeline is one of the more unique hotels in Charleston, SC. Like The Dewberry, it reimagines classic Southern decor without betraying the source material, so to speak. Staying here still feels like staying in historic Charleston, but with the sheen of a newer establishment that’s not afraid to indulge in contemporary styles (in moderation). 

Emeline is just a block east of The Charleston Place, so again, the location is hard to beat — especially if you’re ready to sample the city’s delicious gastronomy (just check out our foodie’s guide to Charleston).

Connect with Fora to level up your stay at Emeline.

Fora Perks at Emeline:

• $25 food / beverage credit.

• Welcome treat in room on arrival.

• Upgrade & guaranteed late check-out.
  
  

4. Hotel Bennett: one of the best hotels in Charleston, SC for architecture enthusiasts

Image courtesy of Hotel Bennett

Unless you’re an architecture wizard, you’ll probably be shocked to learn that Hotel Bennett was opened in 2019 — and not during the city’s architectural golden age of the 17- and 1800s. This five-star hotel looks and feels just like the beautiful and meticulously maintained mansions and buildings that line the streets of the historic center.

Inside, Hotel Bennett is just as beautiful, prim and proper. Travelers seeking the most exclusive accommodations can reserve the two-story owner’s penthouse for a mere $7,500 per night — but even the standard rooms will wow with their attention to detail and eye on luxury. 

Fun fact: Hotel Bennet used to be a public library. Paying homage to that tradition, each room features a book collection.

Our Hotel Bennett review has a few more details if you’re curious.

(Wondering what to do on a short trip, read our guide to weekend getaways in Charleston, SC.)

Fora Perks at Hotel Bennett:

• $100 hotel / resort credit.

• Breakfast daily.

• Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
  
  

5. Zero George Street Hotel: the best hotel in Charleston, SC for travelers looking for a ‘Charleston single house’ experience

Image courtesy of Zero George Street Hotel

For travelers looking to live out their best Charleston single house dreams — which refers to a distinct and elegant style of home commonly built in the city through the 18th and 19th centuries — Zero George is an excellent choice. A collection of five homes originally built in 1804 make up Zero George’s 16 guestrooms and suites. Each structure went through a rigorous and thorough restoration process, ensuring guests can enjoy updated amenities and lavish comforts.

If you’re seeking intimate accommodations with character, Zero George may be the best hotel in Charleston, SC for you.

Fora Perks at Zero George:

• Breakfast daily.

• Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
  
  

Want the VIP experience at the best hotels in Charleston, SC? Book with Fora

Whether you’re throwing a fabulous Charleston girls’ trip or enjoying a laid-back family vacation amidst a charming historical backdrop, we’re here to help. Book and plan your trip with Fora to unlock A+ hotel perks (at no additional cost) and unwavering one-on-one support. We’ll make sure you get the VIP experience so you can get the very most out of your Charleston vacation.

Considering other destinations, too? We’ve got you covered with more awesome guides:

• Hotels in Nashville, TN: 5 Choices Near Broadway & Music Row 

• 10 Unique Places to Stay in New Orleans: Cool Hotels & Neighborhoods 

• The 12 Best Places to Stay in Colorado: Cities, Hotels & More 

• The Best Places to Visit in Italy: 5 Exciting Destinations 

• The Ultimate Spain Bucket List: Top 15 Destinations in Spain
  
  

This article has been fact checked by Fora Advisor Melanie Schwartz, an expert on travel to Charleston, South Carolina.