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Charleston, South Carolina's largest city is one of the top travel destinations in America, thanks to its magnificent palm-lined streets, incredible architecture, world-class restaurants, historic churches, and more. Hosting some of the most luxurious hotels and resorts in the country, it's easy to say that Charleston is straight-up expensive, and one can easily break the bank. But the city's neighborhoods have a wide range of accommodation options, including budget hotels. Where should you stay in Charleston? Here is a guide to the best neighborhoods and hotels.

French Quarter: Best Neighborhood For First-Timers

Planning to stay in Charleston for the first time? Well, the French Quarter’s perfect central location makes it an excellent choice for first-timers, as travelers can easily move around the city.

Inhabited by French Huguenots in the 17th century, this area is packed with amazing art galleries, top-notch restaurants, and some colorful shops.

The neighborhood got its name from the large population of the French, who greatly influenced the local culture and architecture.

Travelers choosing to stay here will have a lot of advantages, including an incredible dining scene, superb nightlife, rich history, and a fascinating shopping experience.

Where To Stay In The French Quarter

  • French Quarter Inn: Offering elegant rooms with balconies guaranteeing breathtaking views, larger bathrooms, custom furniture, lavish linens, and fireplaces, this is one of the best boutique hotels in the entire city.
  • The Spectator Hotel: Another luxurious hotel, consistently ranked by many tourism websites for its superb service and amenities, the Spectator Hotel is best for vacationers looking for top-notch services.
  • Hotel Emeline: Allowing travelers to enjoy local products from local vendors, Hotel Emeline is one of the best mid-range hotels in the French Quarters. The hotel will have freshly brewed coffee delivered to vacationers' rooms every morning. There are also bikes for renting that one can use to move around the city.

West Ashley: Best Neighborhood For Budget Travelers

Located west of Historic Charleston, West Ashley is mostly a residential area, but a perfect option for travelers exploring Charleston on a budget. Plus, there are a good number of things to experience here, including the spectacular views of the Ashley River, fantastic shopping, and many fun activities that an entire family would enjoy. Surrounded by moss oak trees and marshes, West Ashley is nothing less than magnificent.

Related: Where To Stay In San Diego For Easy Beach Access

Where To Stay In West Ashley

  • Town & Country Inn and Suites: This hotel should be a top consideration for accommodation, and puts vacationers only a 10-minute drive away from the North Charleston Coliseum & Performing Arts Center and Charleston Area Convention Center. The hotel's amenities are incredible and include laundry services, seven meeting rooms, free self-parking, and stylish rooms & suites with plush bedding, workstations, modern furnishings, and air bathtubs.
  • Home2 Suites Charleston West Ashley: This hotel is where vacationers will experience the best of southern hospitality. Located about 15 minutes from Charleston International Airport, Home2Suites gives access to beautiful gardens, historic landmarks, and plantations to explore. It also features wonderful amenities, such as free internet, a fully-equipped kitchen, a workstation, and a full-sized sofa bed in each suite.
  • Sleep Inn Charleston – West Ashley: Visitors are assured of a lavish experience in this hotel. Charleston International. The College of Charleston, Citadel Mall, and North Charleston Coliseum & Performing Arts Center is not far from here. The hotel's guest rooms are stylish and feature world-class amenities, including flat-screen TVs, microwaves, coffee makers, hair dryers, refrigerators, and more.

Folly Beach: An Excellent Choice For Beach Lovers

The charm that com with Folly Beach is unforgettable. Also referred to as “The Edge of America” because of its location towards the end of the road in Charleston, this area is a popular destination for travelers of all ages and interests – has a lot to offer. Tourists will spot numerous vendors and local restaurants here and there. Those planning to go biking can rent bikes at Center Street and have fun exploring the island.

Featuring a laid-back atmosphere, beautiful sunsets, and splendid temperatures, Folly Beach is one the best places visitors should consider staying on their trip to Charleston, especially outdoor enthusiasts.

Where To Stay In Folly Beach

  • Tides Folly Beach: Staying here places visitors right on the beach. It is positioned a 4-minute drive from Folly Beach County Park, and a few strolls from Folly Beach Fishing Pier. The hotel's amenities include free self-parking, an outdoor pool, a lounge, free internet, a coffee shop, room service, and coffee machines.
  • Regatta Inn – Adults Only: from a rooftop terrace to beach access to a convenient location, a few minutes away from Folly's best attractions, Regatta Inn is definitely a great place to spend some time.
  • Water’s Edge Inn – Adults Only: Named South Carolina's best Bed & Breakfast hotel, this spot is situated about 11 miles away from historic Charleston and boasts a spectacular garden for tourists to explore. Their bed & breakfast includes American and

Marion Square: One Of The Most Central Points

If staying closer to the city center is the dream, Marion Square is one of the best neighborhoods to consider. The area is bordered by some of the most impressive restaurants in the city, making it a perfect spot for foodies.

It can be a great place, especially for travelers who have already stayed in the French Quarter. Situated on Charleston's main shopping street, King Street, Marion Square is also a great home base choice for vacationers whose trips are focused on sightseeing.

So, tourists making Marion Square their priority get advantages of the incredible dining scene, endless shopping opportunities, and sightseeing.

Where To Stay In Charleston Square

  • The Dewberry: Boasting a beautiful rooftop terrace and a spacious living area, this hotel is one of the most luxurious. The hotel provides travelers with bikes to move around the city.
  • Francis Marion Hotel: This is a perfect option for travelers visiting Charleston on a budget and spending most of their time outdoors. Prices are significantly lower than most hotels.

Charleston is a great place to visit because it has a lot to offer visitors. The best neighborhoods in Charleston really depend on one's interests and budget, and the above areas and hotels should help travelers make the right choice.