Ranked by Conde Nast Traveler as the #1 Small U.S. City for eight years running, Charleston, South Carolina is a city steeped in history and culture. The walkable city offers well-preserved architecture with ironwork balconies, antebellum styling, and colorful stucco, amidst streets lined with sidewalk cafes and boutiques ideal for meandering and exploring. 

Founded by English colonists in 1670, Charleston is one of the best-preserved cities in the "Old South" where visitors can hear church bells ringing, ride in a horse-drawn carriage, and see more than 600 buildings erected prior to the 1840s, including 73 Colonial buildings. The city has withstood a number of hardships including Yankee bombardments during the Civil War, earthquakes, and fires, yet many historic sites remain including St. Michael's Episcopal Church and the Calhoun Mansion. Plus, there are plantations like Boone Hall where guests can gain a greater understanding of the city's history. 

Foodies will find plenty of flavors to discover within the city, including low country favorites like She-Crab Soup and the area's classic morning dish of shrimp and grits. Charleston's vibrant food scene includes chic cafes, fine dining, food festivals, and locally-infused Southern cuisine. 

For outdoor enthusiasts, the region provides an array of top-ranked golf courses, as well as beaches, parks, and nature tours of the area's beaches, marshes, and rivers.

Here are 5 Top Charleston Luxury Hotels:

5. The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island

For travelers seeking a resort-style getaway within a short drive of the city, The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island is an ideal destination. Situated 21 miles from downtown Charleston, the property is an oceanfront hotel providing Southern hospitality, The Sanctuary Spa, luxury shopping, tennis packages, golf, and multiple dining options. There's also an array of recreational activities such as bicycle rentals, Kamp Kiawah for young vacationers at Night Heron Park, fitness classes, and nature programs. 

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: Guests booking the "5 Star Signature Package" rate will also receive a daily full buffet breakfast for two in Jasmine Porch or a la Carte through room service, VIP status, a one time $100 resort credit per room (not valid towards the room rate), complimentary WiFi, and one bottle of Simonet Sparkling Wine from the mini-bar per room/per stay.

Check rates at The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island

4. The Dewberry

Tucked within a historic Mid-Century Modern building (formerly the Mendel Rivers Federal Building), The Dewberry is a luxury boutique hotel featuring "Southern Reimagined" by a group of architects, designers, and preservation specialists. Guest rooms and suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows with views of Charleston Harbor and the Arthur Ravenel, Jr. Bridge, as well as Irish mattresses and linens, artwork by local artists, and minibars curated seasonally by the hotel's executive chef. The Spa provides low country-inspired signature treatments infused with local ingredients, and Henrietta's French Brasserie overlooks Meeting Street with Southern-influenced cuisine. 

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: Guests booking the "5 Star Signature Package" rate or "Best Available Rate" will also receive breakfast for two daily ($30 per person and $60 max per day), a guaranteed room category upgrade at booking based on availability, complimentary WiFi, and a $100 spa credit per room/per stay.

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3. Hotel Bennett

Opening in late 2018, Hotel Bennett is situated at the intersection of Marion Square and King Street. Transformed by native Charlestonians, the authentic retreat is located within the former Charleston County Library and The Citadel. Offering a two-tiered signature restaurant and Camelias Bar, the hotel also has a patisserie, signature spa, and rooftop pool, steps from King Street shops, restaurants, and museums. 

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: Guests booking the  the “5 Star Signature Package” rate will also receive full breakfast for two daily in Gabrielle (max $30 per person, max $60 per day), and a $100 hotel credit per room/per stay.

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2. Belmond Charleston Place 

Evoking the feel of a 17th century European residence, Belmond Charleston Place is an iconic luxury hotel in the heart of Charleston's historic downtown. Offering high-end shopping, full-service spa, and a rooftop indoor/outdoor pool, the property is an ideal place for exploring the city, or a relaxing retreat. Popular with celebrities, princes, and politicians, the hotel has award-winning dining at the Palmetto Cafe and the Charleston Grill.

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK:  Guests booking the "5 Star Signature Package" rate will also receive breakfast for each guest daily (maximum of $30 per person/per day), a $100 food and beverage credit per room/per stay, and a welcome amenity.

Check rates at Belmond Charleston Place

1. The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor

Set on Patriots Point in the upscale community of Mount Pleasant, The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor is an upscale waterfront resort with panoramic views of Charleston Harbor and the downtown skyline. There are three on-site dining options including the waterfront Charleston Harbor Fish House, and The Bridge Bar with an open-air setting. For relaxation The Estruary Spa and Salon offers a range of treatments, and there are three outdoor pools including one with a Tiki Bar. There's also a custom theater, full-service marina, seaside bocce court, and the College of Charleston Sail School is located on-site. 

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: Guests booking the "5 Star Signature Package" rate will also receive continental breakfast for each guest daily at The Fish House, a $100 resort credit per room/per stay (not valid on room rate and no cash value), and a welcome cookie amenity.

Check rates at The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor