Francis Marion Hotel

I'd been to the Francis Marion once before for a conference, and decided to travel again to Charleston with my girlfriend for a little R'n'R. The hotel staff was excellent during our stay, very helpful whenever we needed a recommendation or assistance. The rooms are what would be expected at an older hotel, smaller, fewer conveniences, but nice and cozy if you don't need a ton of space.

I was in town on business and needed a hotel that was comfortable and convenient. I enjoy the charm of renovated historical hotels and the Francis Marion is certainly charming. My room was roomy and comfortable; it seems like a study with a bed because of homey architectural details like crown molding and antiqued furniture. It was big enough that I could easily have had colleagues over to visit or work. One morning the cleaning staff left coffee in the pot, leading me to think the job had been a little rushed, but overall the room was clean and the amenities were fine. The front desk staff and doormen are all very friendly and helpful. There is a great ambiance if you appreciate a blend of comfy luxury. I was able to walk most places but unless you have some time, you might prefer to taxi to the market area. Being so close to the campus means that there are college-type options as well as finer dining. It is an understatement to say that there is an abundance of fine shopping in this area. There are many shops of all types from cupcake bakeries to computers to luggage. Personally, I would have traded some charm for a hot tub but they do have a spa if you can afford to pay for a little pampering.

The hotel is beautiful and truly historic. The location was great and within walking distance of great shopping and restaurants. The staff were all very friendly and helpful. The sleeping room was small, but very comfortable. Breakfast was not included. We would highly recommend!

The staff was very friendly and helpful.

We upgraded to a King room which was good size and being in a corner had windows on two walls. However, the bathroom was very small and the strong odor of high power cleaning agents was very evident which suggests they are trying to control some unpleasant bacteria or something. Wireless worked initially and then died never to return. Worse, the Air Conditioning fan began clattering very loudly at about midnight waking us up and ruining a night's sleep (too hot and humid with it off - impossible to bear the noise with it on - too late to switch rooms). Then, in the morning upon checkout I informed the agent of the issue - they made no offer of compensation, no apology - they just took the information...won't be back.

very nice staff, had room for us even though we arrived early

I was taking my grand-daughter to orientation at College of Charleston. It was our first visit to Charleston.The hotel was in the perfect location for our needs. It was also very comfortable, clean and attractive. The rooms were lovely. It was quiet and restful. All The staff courteous and friendly. The front desk staff was knowlegeable and very helpful. The only negatives were the WIFI system which didn't work during much of our stay. We kept calling the front desk and it was always reported that they were working on the problem. It did improve by our last day there. They also have two computers in the lobby that are available for guests and that was helpful. The only other problem was the bathroom which was small and attractive but had NO storage space for personal toiletries. However, in spite of the negative comments, I really enjoyed our stay at this hotel and would certainly recommend it to other Charleston visitors and will plan to stay there myself on my next trip to Charleston.

Plus - Easy walking distance to sights. Minus - Easy free parking would have been nice.

great location

Friendly, great staff. Carpeting wet under A/C at window. Numerous college kids using hallway as social room for singing, music, chatting, but respectfully went in rooms when security explained the noise was disturbing other guests. Wonderful concierge & hop-to bell staff. Loved the location!