The single terminal handles domestic flights and some seasonal routes, reflecting the city's strong tourism appeal.
Gateway to Charleston, one of the best-preserved historic cities in the United States, known for its colonial architecture and Lowcountry cuisine.
How to get to Charleston International Airport
By Car
By Train
By Bus
Average travel time to CHS
Parking near Charleston International Airport
The Daily Parking Deck costs 17 USD/day; Economy Lot A costs 13 USD/day; valet parking costs 28 USD/day.
How to get to Charleston from CHS
By Train
By Bus
By Taxi
Need an airport transfer?
Compare taxis and shuttles on Booking.com
Car rental at Charleston International Airport
All major car rental companies are represented at the terminal.
You'll need a driver's license, passport, and credit card in the renter's name; for a short stay, holders of a Latin character license don't need an IDP.
Hotels near Charleston International Airport
Airport area, North Charleston
About 1.5 km from the terminal, reachable on the hotel's free shuttle, which runs round-the-clock.
Best for: Travelers arriving late at night, departing at dawn, or just changing planes without seeing the city.
- Free airport shuttle running at night, handy for early or late flights
- The same shuttle also covers the convention center and the outlet mall within 8 km
- A commercial area with no evening life: you need a car to go out for dinner
- Some reviews mention rooms that aren't always spotless
Historic center, Charleston
From the peninsula the airport is reached by car or taxi in 15-25 minutes; the city bus takes about 50-55 minutes.
Best for: Travelers visiting Charleston who want to walk among historic houses, the market and the waterfront.
- A few steps from King Street, the historic market and the Joe Riley Park waterfront
- Hotel parking available, useful since it's scarce in the rest of the neighborhood
- The trip to the airport depends on traffic on the bridges leading onto the peninsula
- Some reviews mention rooms that are small for the price
Recommended hotels
- Mills House Charleston, Curio Collection by Hilton A historic hotel less than 800 meters from King Street and the market, with on-site parking. View availability
- Courtyard Charleston Waterfront On the Ashley River side of the peninsula, with shuttle and parking easier than in the heart of the historic center. View availability
French Quarter, historic district
Same route to the airport as the historic center, 15-25 minutes by car or taxi.
Best for: Travelers who want a boutique stay a few steps from the market and the waterfront, without worrying about price.
- A few minutes' walk from the City Market and the Waterfront Park promenade
- Small properties with personalized service, praised in reviews
- No free parking of its own: a nearby garage is often needed
- Few rooms available, so rates are higher on weekends
Recommended hotels
Airport services
Shopping & Duty Free
Lounges & relaxation
Connectivity & Wi-Fi
Families & Children
Terminal guide
The single terminal handles domestic connections and some seasonal routes.
Before your flight, it's wise to arrive with 2-2.5 hours of buffer time.
Map of Charleston International Airport
Frequently asked questions
Q. Do all CARTA Route 11 buses stop at the airport?
No, only the southbound runs (departing from Tanger Outlets): always check the direction before boarding.
Q. How much does the bus cost from Charleston Airport to downtown?
2 USD for the local Route 11 line (40-60 minutes), or 3.50 USD for the hourly express service from 8:00 am to midnight.
Q. Is Charleston known for its historic architecture?
Yes, it's one of the best-preserved historic cities in the United States, with a rich colonial heritage.
Q. Do hotel prices in Charleston go up in spring?
Yes, the flower season and visits to historic gardens increase tourist demand.
Flight board
Real-time status of arriving and departing flights
