Charleston is a city where shopping and market tours perfectly complement its scenic streets and rich culture. Whether you want to indulge in sweet treats, browse fashionable boutiques, or explore historic markets, Charleston offers experiences that blend local flavor with enjoyable outings. We particularly love the Charleston International Sweet Treats & Historic City Market Tour for its delicious variety and fun atmosphere, as well as the King Street Shopping Tour with Drinks for a more upscale, social shopping experience. Each tour is designed to give you a taste of the city’s unique character—whether through flavors or fashion—making your trip memorable.
If you’re planning your visit, here’s a quick overview of the best shopping and market tours in Charleston. The list features a range of options—from sweet treat tours that satisfy your sugar cravings to fashion-focused strolls with exclusive discounts. Curious? Dive into the details below to find the perfect fit for your interests.
1. Charleston International Sweet Treats & Historic City Market Tour
At number one, the Charleston International Sweet Treats & Historic City Market Tour combines two of the city’s most delightful experiences. This tour, priced at $80 per person, lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours and takes you through the heart of downtown Charleston. You’ll sample a variety of international sweets—from fluffy Belgian pancakes to flaky baklava and refreshing pineapple ice cream—while soaking in the city’s historic ambiance. The tour begins in downtown Charleston, where you’ll walk past a historic museum, then head to the iconic Charleston City Market for tastings and a quick history lesson on its significance as a trade hub. The final stop at the Pineapple Fountain offers perfect photo opportunities in a scenic waterfront park, wrapping up your flavorful journey.
What makes this tour special is its blend of culture and cuisine. The guide shares fun facts about Charleston’s history while you savor treats from local vendors. It’s a great choice for families, couples, or anyone wanting a relaxed, tasty exploration of Charleston’s sweet side. The small group size ensures a personal experience, and the variety of treats guarantees you won’t leave hungry.
Bottom Line: If you love discovering local flavors with a side of history, this tour offers a fun, leisurely way to enjoy Charleston’s culinary diversity.
2. Charleston: King Street Shopping Tour with Drinks
For around $65, the King Street Shopping Tour with Drinks provides a lively, social approach to exploring Charleston’s most fashionable district. Lasting about 2 hours, this tour takes you along King Street, renowned for its mix of historic architecture and trendy boutiques. The guide leads you through some of the city’s most stylish shops, where you can browse and buy from unique boutiques, all while enjoying complimentary drinks like champagne, wine, margaritas, and even chips and salsa at Juanita’s Nacho Royale.
What truly sets this tour apart is the combination of shopping with socializing. Instead of rushing through stores, you’ll have time to chat with the guide and fellow shoppers, making it ideal for travelers who enjoy a relaxed, fun atmosphere. The exclusive discounts at certain stores add extra value, and the leisurely pace means you can truly take your time exploring.
Guests mention that the combination of drinks and discounts elevated their shopping experience, making it feel more like a social outing than a typical tour. It’s perfect for fashion lovers or anyone wanting to experience Charleston’s Southern charm with a glass in hand.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a stylish, relaxed shopping experience with a taste of local nightlife and boutique culture.
3. Charleston International Sweet Treats & City Market Tour
If your sweet tooth is calling, the Charleston International Sweet Treats & City Market Tour offers a delectable two-hour exploration of the city’s best bakeries and hidden food gems. For $70 per person, this tour is all about indulging in belgian pancakes, baklava, chocolate clusters, and biscuits—all while discovering the stories behind Charleston’s culinary scene. Your guide takes you through the historic downtown district, pointing out local bakeries and sharing fun facts about Charleston’s culinary history.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on sweet treats and local culinary traditions. You’ll learn about Charleston’s diverse influences—African, European, and American—that shape its food scene today. The tour also offers plenty of photo opportunities and chances to ask questions about Charleston’s food culture, making it a rich experience for food lovers. Reviewers appreciate the well-paced walk and the variety of tasty samples.
Best suited for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a tasty adventure and those interested in learning about Charleston’s food heritage.
Bottom Line: Perfect for sweet-loving travelers eager to explore Charleston’s bakeries and learn how history influences what’s on your plate.
$70 per person
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you have. If you’re a foodie with a sweet tooth, the Sweet Treats & City Market Tour is a delightful pick, while the King Street Shopping Tour appeals to those who love fashion and socializing over drinks. For a relaxed, cultural experience that combines treats with history, the Sweet Treats & Historic City Market Tour hits the spot.
Think about whether you want a self-guided shopping experience or a guided tour with insider tips and discounts. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot. Many tours can be combined with other activities, so plan your day accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Charleston offers a range of engaging shopping and market tours that can suit different tastes and budgets. The Sweet Treats & Historic City Market Tour provides a fun, flavorful way to explore the city’s culinary side, while the King Street Shopping Tour with Drinks is perfect for those who enjoy stylish boutiques and a lively social scene. For those with a sweet tooth eager to taste local bakeries and learn about Charleston’s culinary history, the Sweet Treats & City Market Tour is an excellent choice.
No matter which tour you pick, booking early and planning your itinerary around your interests will ensure a memorable experience. Charleston’s vibrant shopping and market scene await—so get ready for a delicious and stylish adventure in this charming southern city.