Discover Charlotte

North Carolina’s largest city

Charlotte: A city full of character at every turn

Travel to Charlotte, a fast-growing city in the heart of North Carolina that pulses with energy, creativity, and Southern charm. Bold street art and leafy neighbourhoods seamlessly blend with a variety of cultures, giving the city a distinctive identity. You can explore Charlotte’s must-do attractions, from museums and galleries to scenic parks and green spaces. With a thriving economy, a buzzing sports scene, and colourful traditions, Charlotte offers experiences waiting to be discovered.

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Highlights of Charlotte

Set among the rolling hills of North Carolina’s Piedmont region, Charlotte is a city buzzing with energy and endless possibilities. From thrilling outdoor adventures and rich cultural experiences to vibrant food scenes and boutique shopping, the city blends Southern charm with modern flair. Explore the best of Charlotte's highlights and experience the city’s character first-hand.

Sports and local life
Must-try food & staples
Outdoor experiences

Charlotte offers a lively urban scene and countless places to visit for sports enthusiasts.. From the high-speed excitement of the Charlotte Motor Speedway and the interactive NASCAR Hall of Fame to lively neighbourhoods, there’s something for every interest in the heart of North Carolina.

Race adventures

Feel the adrenaline in Charlotte, a key destination for racing fans. Explore the NASCAR Hall of Fame with interactive exhibits about legendary drivers and iconic cars, or catch the action at Charlotte Motor Speedway, hosting races on the 1.5-mile Charlotte Motor Speedway track.

A golf ball on a putting green with a golfers shadow visible in the background

Markets & museums

Dive into Charlotte’s lively cultural scene, from Charlotte Regional Farmers Market with fresh local produce and artisanal treats to SouthPark Mall that offers a premium shopping experience. Discovery Place Science Museum also offers interactive exhibits for all ages.

Golf activities

Tee off at more than 40 courses across Charlotte, from family-friendly greens to championship-level fairways. With a strong golf scene, the city offers you plenty of opportunities to watch tournaments, play a round, or practice your swing in the sun during your trip.

Taste the best food to eat in Charlotte, from smoky BBQ and fried pickles to sweet potato pie and local favourites. Charlotte’s vibrant dining scene blends Southern flavours with modern twists.

Sweet potato pie

Savour this Southern classic made with smooth, naturally sweet filling and warm spices, baked into a flaky crust. This local favourite remains popular across North Carolina year-round, from everyday treats to holiday tables.

Fried pickles

Crunch into Charlotte’s famous fried pickles, a Southern favourite made with dill pickle slices coated in seasoned batter and fried until crisp. Each bite balances a tangy pickle with a crunchy coating, served hot with a choice of dips.

Thanksgiving Day pumpkin pie and mug of hot chocolate with marshmallows

Carolina BBQ

Some of the best BBQ in Charlotte you’ll ever taste is found in Charlotte. Carolina-style BBQ, for example, offers sharp vinegar-based styles or western versions with a subtle tomato tang, both soaking into the meat for a rich taste in every bite.

Fried pickles appetizer in a basket and ready to eat

Explore outdoor activities in Charlotte, from whitewater rafting to strolls in green spaces. Nature and adventure come together for unforgettable moments, whether you’re in the city or taking day trips from Charlotte.

U.S. National Whitewater Center

Get outside and embrace adventure at the U.S. National Whitewater Center in Charlotte, offering everything from whitewater rafting and ziplining to rock climbing and mountain biking. Make the most out of Charlotte’s outdoor scene through exciting nature adventures.

City skyline of downtown Charlotte North Carolina USA

Nature & theme parks

For the ultimate outdoor experience, head to Charlotte’s natural and theme parks. Carowinds features thrilling rides and waterparks, Chimney Rock State Park, located a few hours from Charlotte, offers scenic hiking trails, waterfalls, and panoramic views.

Green spaces

Explore the best parks in Charlotte, from Freedom Park with its lake and playgrounds, to Romare Bearden Park with stunning skyline views, and Independence Park with winding trails and sports fields. Enjoy relaxed strolls and family fun at Charlotte’s top parks.

Plan your trip to Charlotte

Map out your days in Charlotte with a simple itinerary to make the most of your visit. With a well-organised itinerary, you can explore top attractions, discover vibrant neighbourhoods, and experience all the best things to do in Charlotte.

Day 1

Fly with us to Charlotte and arrive before noon. After checking into your hotel, get some rest and settle in after your journey. In the evening, take a quick stroll around Independence Park.

Day 2

Time for some adrenaline rush. Head to the NASCAR Hall of Fame to explore interactive exhibits about legendary drivers and vintage race cars. In the afternoon, visit Charlotte Motor Speedway for an up-close look at the quad-oval track. Finish the day with a casual evening walk in Romare Bearden Park.

Day 3

Tee off at one of Charlotte’s over 40 golf courses or visit Discovery Place Science Museum for immersive displays. Stop by Charlotte Farmers Market for artisanal treats or browse through designer shops at SouthPark Mall.

Day 4

It’s a day for the beautiful outdoors. Go whitewater rafting at the U.S. National Whitewater Center. In the afternoon, enjoy the city’s parks with a stroll or picnic at Freedom Park.

Day 5

Take a day trip from Charlotte to Chimney Rock State Park for scenic hikes, waterfalls, and panoramic views. Or head to Carowinds for thrilling rides, waterparks, and family-friendly attractions.

Day 6

After enjoying the best things to do in Charlotte, your trip comes to a close. On your final day, get ready for your flight home or continue exploring beyond the city.

Charlotte North Carolina Uptown reflects in the ponds of Marshall Park

Important travel information

Before you travel to Charlotte, it helps to have the key details at hand. Knowing about the best time to visit, transport options, and local tips makes exploring the city feel seamless from the moment you arrive.

Charlotte experiences four distinct seasons, each with its own charm. Winters, from December to February, can be cold with occasional snow, while spring, from March to May, brings mild temperatures, rain showers, and bursts of sunshine. Summers, from June to August, are hot and humid, perfect for outdoor activities and festivals. Autumn, from September to November, is cooler and drier, with colourful fall foliage that makes parks and neighbourhoods especially inviting. For most visitors, the best time to visit Charlotte is spring or autumn, when the weather is pleasant and the city is at its liveliest.

Charlotte Douglas International Airport, located on Josh Birmingham Parkway, welcomes millions of travellers each year and serves as a gateway to the city. As one of the busiest airports in the U.S., it offers nonstop flights to more than 180 destinations worldwide and provides modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, charging stations, lounges, and pet relief areas. Etihad will operate four weekly flights to Charlotte from March 2026, making it easy for you to reach the heart of North Carolina. The IATA code for Charlotte Douglas International Airport is CLT.

Before you book your flight to Charlotte, know which visa you need and submit your application early. Check official sources for the latest entry requirements to the United States to help your trip go smoothly.

Tourist visa validity: Depending on your nationality, you may need a B-2 tourist visa or an approved ETSA to visit Charlotte. This visa may be valid for up to 10 years, with stays of up to 180 days per visit, subject to U.S. immigration approval.
General visa requirements: Some of the general requirements include a valid passport, a completed DS-160 confirmation page, proof of financial capacity, proof of employment or family ties, and evidence of the purpose of the trip.

Currency: Charlotte uses the U.S. Dollar (USD), the standard currency throughout the United States.
Language: English is the main language spoken in Charlotte, making it easy to communicate, ask for directions, and connect with locals.

Getting around Charlotte is straightforward, with plenty of transport options across the city. You can hop on the light rail or buses, rent a bike or scooter, or drive to move between Uptown, popular neighbourhoods, and top attractions with ease.

Light Rail: Ride the LYNX Blue Line and CityLYNX Gold Line to move easily through Charlotte. This is the best way to get around Charlotte’s museums, breweries, and scenic parks.
Buses: Use Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) local, regional, and express routes to explore the best places to visit in Charlotte. Travel easily through Uptown and surrounding neighbourhoods at affordable fares.
Taxis: Catch a cab or book a ride through ride hailing apps to move quickly around Charlotte. Reach Uptown, top attractions, and popular neighbourhoods with ease and flexibility.
Car rental: Rent a car to explore Charlotte and its surrounding area. Pick up your vehicle at Charlotte Douglas International Airport or in Uptown for easy access.
Bicycles: Cycle around Charlotte to explore Uptown, parks, and green neighbourhoods at your own pace.
Electric scooters: Travel short distances around Charlotte using dockless electric scooters. You can unlock them with a smartphone app for quick trips between Uptown, neighbourhoods, and local hotspots.

Fly to Charlotte with Etihad

Book flights to Charlotte with Etihad and experience a seamless journey with a world-renowned service. From March 2026, we’ll fly four times a week to Charlotte, giving you easy access to the heart of North Carolina, as well as its vibrant neighbourhoods and a wide range of cultural, outdoor, and sporting experiences. Relax with our award-winning hospitality on board and step off the plane ready to discover everything the city has to offer.

When you fly with us to Charlotte, you’ll enjoy comfort and convenience from the moment you check in. Make the most of your time on the ground with access to our modern lounges, where eligible guests can enter for free, and enjoy quiet spaces and premium amenities that help you relax before your flight. Every part of your journey with us is smooth, giving you time to unwind and get ready for your adventure in Charlotte.

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Downtown Charlotte, North Carolina Skyline

Frequently asked questions

From March 2026, we’ll fly to Charlotte, one of our newest destinations, four times weekly, with convenient morning arrival times.

Charlotte offers a wide range of sporting activities for every guest. Racing fans can explore the NASCAR Hall of Fame or Charlotte Motor Speedway. Golf enthusiasts can play at more than 40 courses. You can also stay active outdoors at the U.S. National Whitewater Center with whitewater rafting, ziplining, rock climbing, and mountain biking.

Charlotte offers various parks that are perfect for strolling and relaxing. Popular spots include Freedom Park, Romare Bearden Park, and Independence Park, which provide lakes, trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas.