Best Charleston South Carolina Travel Books of 2025

The Charleston Historic District Illustrated Map is an essential companion for anyone visiting the heart of peninsular Charleston. This beautifully illustrated map provides a birds-eye-view perspective of the city's popular landmarks and includes useful information such as shuttle routes, water taxi locations, and public restrooms. The map is printed in the USA on high-quality paper and comes in a convenient size to carry around. The book also features interesting historical factoids and a list of popular museums and attractions. Overall, this map is a must-have for anyone who wants to explore the historic district of Charleston and learn about its rich history.

The Open Road: 50 Best Road Trips in the USA is an ultimate guide for anyone planning to hit the road. It features 50 different road trips organized by region with flexible itineraries, can't-miss stops, and the best local flavors. The book also provides expert advice and comprehensive planning resources, including maps, lodging, dining, and tips for minimizing your environmental impact. With gorgeous, full-color photos and a fold-out map, this book is a must-have for any road trip enthusiast. Overall, it's an excellent reference book for travelers seeking adventure on the open road.

Moon Charleston & Savannah is a comprehensive travel guidebook that explores the rich history, culture, and Southern hospitality of these two charming sister cities. With detailed maps and itineraries designed for families, beach lovers, history buffs, foodies, and more, this guidebook offers practical tips and local know-how to help travelers experience the best of Charleston and Savannah. The author, Jim Morekis, who was born and raised in Savannah, shares his honest advice and insider tips on the area's landscape, history, and culture. This book is a must-have for anyone planning to visit the South Atlantic United States.

Fodor's InFocus Charleston: with Hilton Head & the Lowcountry is a comprehensive travel guide for those who want to experience the best of Charleston. The guidebook is packed with maps, itineraries, and honest recommendations from locals on the best sights, restaurants, hotels, nightlife, shopping, performing arts, activities, side-trips, and more. The book also includes historical and cultural insights, providing rich context on the local people, politics, art, architecture, cuisine, geography, and more. The digital edition of the guide does not contain all the images or text included in the physical edition. Overall, Fodor's InFocus Charleston is a must-have for anyone planning a trip to the city and wanting to make the most of their time there.

Southern humorist Jane Jenkins Herlong’s book, "Sweet Tea Secrets from the Deep-Fried South: Sassy, Sacred, Southern Stories Filled with Hope and Humor," is a collection of 50 faith-filled, real-life stories of growing up in the South Carolina low country. The book is a perfect blend of Southern life and humor that will entertain and inspire readers. Herlong shares tried-and-true tips for becoming the best version of oneself, addressing landmark events and issues faced by women. This book is a great read for anyone who loves Southern culture or wants to learn more about it.

The Preservation of Charleston is a captivating book that showcases the history and architecture of the South Carolina city through stunning photography and insightful storytelling. The book features a collection of authentic building stock that displays Charleston's unique charm and character. The authors, N. Jane Iseley, Harlan Greene, and William P. Baldwin, bring their expertise in photography, history, and literature to provide a comprehensive look at the city's past and present. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in Charleston's rich cultural heritage.

The New Charleston Chef's Table is a delightful book that unveils Charleston's eclectic and growing food scene. Holly Herrick, a Cordon Bleu-trained chef and Charleston resident, explores the city's restaurants, from roadside dives to upscale eateries, to curate her top recommendations. The book delivers an array of Southern and Chinese dishes, from shrimp and grits to fried chicken, that will make readers' mouths water. The recipes are easy to follow, and readers can recreate their favorite dishes at home. A must-have for foodies and anyone who wants to experience the tastes of Charleston from the comfort of their own kitchen.

Lonely Planet Pocket Charleston & Savannah 2 (Pocket Guide) is a comprehensive guide to the South Atlantic United States. It is perfect for travelers who want to explore the cities of Charleston and Savannah. The guide is organized by neighborhood, and it features up-to-date information, full-color maps, and travel photography throughout. The book includes insider tips to save time and money and get around like a local, as well as essential information such as hours of operation, phone numbers, and prices. The book also features honest reviews for all budgets, covering eating, sightseeing, going out, shopping, and hidden gems that most guidebooks miss. The convenient pull-out map of Charleston and Savannah is a nice touch. Overall, Lonely Planet Pocket Charleston & Savannah 2 is an excellent travel companion for anyone visiting the South Atlantic United States.

Very Charleston: A Celebration of History, Culture, and Lowcountry Charm is a delightful guidebook that showcases the beauty and rich history of Charleston. Through vibrant watercolors and detailed sketches, artist Diana Gessler captures the essence of the city and its unique charm. The book is full of fascinating details, from the city's inspired architectural and garden designs to the art of early entertaining and famous Charlestonians. Hand-lettered and full-color throughout, Very Charleston is both an entertaining guide and an irresistible keepsake for visitors and Charlestonians alike.

The Streetwise Charleston Map by Michelin is a laminated city center map of Charleston that includes a complete index of streets, hotels, points of interest, shopping, education, culture, and parks. It features a main Charleston map, a historic Charleston map, a Charleston regional map, a Charleston area map, and a North Charleston map. The map is compact, durable, and easy to use, making it an ideal travel companion for those visiting this historic Southern city. For those looking for more information on what to see and do in Charleston, Michelin also offers travel guides to enhance your visit. Overall, the Streetwise Charleston Map is a must-have for any traveler exploring the city.