Getting to Charleston

Getting to Charleston is simple, with an easy-to-negotiate road system that gives access from Atlanta in the west; Washington DC in the north; and Miami in the south. The national bus and train services are accessible to tourists and cover most routes, with the city having both Greyhound and Amtrak stations. Air travel is also convenient from domestic locations, with Charleston International Airport situated only nine miles from the city centre.

By car

Charleston is easily accessible by car, with the I-26 coming in from Colombia and linking with Atlanta, via the I-20, and Washington DC, via the I-95. Interstate 95 also runs south from Charleston to connect with Jacksonville and Miami. Roads are in excellent condition and routes are well-signed.

By rail

Amtrak has a station at 4565 Gaynor Avenue, eight miles north of downtown. This area is not one of the safest in the city and passengers are advised to avoid the station at night and to take a taxi to their final destination. There are rail links to Washington DC in the north and Jacksonville and Miami in the south. Tickets should be reserved in advance.

By bus

Greyhound buses serve Charleston, dropping passengers off at 3610 Dorchester Road, near the I-26. The area around the station can be dangerous at night, and visitors are advised to take a taxi to their final destination. There are routes to all major US cities, with some destinations requiring a change. Advance reservations are not essential, but we recommend you buy your ticket in advance to avoid disappointment.

By air

Charleston International Airport is conveniently located only nine miles northwest of downtown. As South Carolina’s busiest airport, the hub services flights to numerous domestic destinations such as Orlando, Cincinnati, Boston, New York and Chicago, while international connections can be made via one of the larger US airports. Six US airlines operate flights to and from here including: Continental Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Northwest Airlines, US Airways, United Express and American Eagle.

Facilities at the airport include toilets, ATMs, car rental outlets and a convenience shop, spread across a single terminal that has two concourses, three floors and 10 gates. There is also public parking for up to 3,679 vehicles. The parking options consist of valet parking, a cell phone waiting area, free parking (for up to 30 minutes), surface parking and deck parking. All car parks are within walking distance of the terminal, which can be reached via stairs or lift.

From the airport, the city can be reached by taxi or airport shuttle bus via the I-526; shuttles depart every 15 minutes. Alternatively, arrivals can hire a car on-site and drive themselves.