Best Airports & How to Get from the Airport to the City in Charleston, South Carolina, United States
1. Charleston International Airport (CHS)
The main airport serving Charleston, offering direct flights to major cities. It's conveniently located just a short drive from downtown.
- Direct Flights: Offers non-stop flights to many major destinations
- Location: Situated about 12 miles northwest of downtown Charleston
- Size: Medium-sized airport, making it less crowded and more manageable for travelers
2. Charleston Executive Airport (XCH)
Smaller airport catering to private jets and chartered flights. It's located closer to downtown Charleston, providing easy access.
- Private & Charter Flights: Ideal for private or luxury travelers
- Location: Centrally located, just a few miles from downtown Charleston
- Size: Smaller airport with fewer passengers and less waiting time
3. Taxi from CHS
Taxis are readily available outside the terminal at Charleston International Airport. Fares to downtown are approximately $25-$30.
- Convenience: Immediate transportation upon arrival
- Cost: Affordable and straightforward pricing
- Availability: Taxis available at any hour of the day or night
4. Ride-Sharing from CHS
Uber and Lyft services are available at Charleston International Airport. Fares to downtown are similar to taxi costs.
- Convenience: Easy smartphone booking and real-time tracking
- Cost: Competitive pricing with some flexibility in vehicle choice
- Availability: Reliable service with multiple options for drivers
5. Charleston International Airport Shuttle
Shared shuttle services are available from Charleston International Airport to various hotels in the city. Fares range from $15-$20 per person.
- Cost: Economical transportation option for budget-conscious travelers
- Convenience: Direct service to hotels, saving time and hassle
- Availability: Scheduled pick-ups based on flight arrival times
6. Car Rental at CHS
Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore Charleston and its surroundings at your own pace.
- Flexibility: Allows you to visit multiple locations without schedule constraints
- Cost: Prices starting from around $30 per day for basic economy vehicles
- Convenience: Car rental desks located in the airport terminal
7. Bus from CHS to Downtown Charleston
The CARTA bus service connects Charleston International Airport with downtown Charleston for just $2 per ride.
- Cost: Inexpensive transportation option
- Frequency: Regular buses running throughout the day
- Accessibility: A more eco-friendly transportation choice
8. Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA)
The local bus system serves Charleston and its surrounding areas. Fares range from $1-$2 per ride.
- Cost: Affordable public transportation option
- Coverage: Covers a wide area, including downtown Charleston and surrounding suburbs
- Schedules: Regularly updated bus schedules available online
9. Charleston Trolley Tours
Hop-on hop-off trolley tours offer a fun and informative way to explore Charleston's historic district.
- Entertainment: Informative guided tour with live narration
- Flexibility: Allows passengers to hop on and off at various points of interest
- Convenience: Pick-up locations near popular hotels and attractions
10. Water Taxi from Patriots Point
Offers a scenic and unique way to travel between Mount Pleasant and downtown Charleston.
- Scenic Views: Provides stunning views of Charleston's harbor
- Convenience: Stops at popular attractions like Patriots Point and Fort Sumter
- Cost: Competitively priced with other transportation options
11. Ferry from Mount Pleasant to Downtown Charleston
The scenic ferry ride offers a relaxing journey between Mount Pleasant and downtown Charleston.
- Scenic Views: Beautiful views of the Charleston harbor
- Cost: Affordable transportation option with great views
- Convenience: Stops at various points along the route, including Shem Creek and Waterfront Park
12. Bike Rental in Charleston
Rent a bike to explore Charleston's historic district at your own pace while enjoying the fresh air.
- Flexibility: Allows you to visit multiple locations without schedule constraints
- Cost: Prices starting from around $10 per hour for bike rentals
- Convenience: Bike rental shops located throughout the city
13. Walking Tour in Charleston
Join a guided walking tour to learn about Charleston's rich history and architecture.
- Education: Informative guided tour with expert historians
- Convenience: Walking tours depart from various points in downtown Charleston
- Flexibility: Tours cater to various interests, such as ghosts, food, or architecture
14. Segway Tour in Charleston
Experience a fun and efficient way to explore Charleston's historic district on a Segway.
- Excitement: An exhilarating way to see the city
- Convenience: Segway tours depart from various points in downtown Charleston
- Flexibility: Tours cater to various interests, such as history, architecture, or ghosts
15. Golf Cart Tour in Charleston
Take a relaxing and fun golf cart tour to explore the charming streets of Charleston.
- Relaxation: A laid-back way to see the city
- Convenience: Golf cart tours depart from various points in downtown Charleston
- Flexibility: Tours cater to various interests, such as history, architecture, or ghosts