Chile-2-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Santiago and its Surroundings

Morning

  • 9:00 am: Start the day at Plaza de Armas, the heart of Santiago’s historic center. Admire the beautiful colonial architecture, visit the Cathedral Metropolitana, and take a stroll around the square.
  • 10:30 am: Head to La Moneda Palace, the presidential palace of Chile, and watch the changing of the guard ceremony.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 pm: Take a break for lunch at one of the many restaurants in the trendy neighborhood of Lastarria. Try some traditional Chilean cuisine like pastel de choclo or chupe de mariscos.
  • 2:30 pm: Visit the Museum of Memory and Human Rights (Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos) to learn about Chile’s complex history.

Evening

  • 6:00 pm: Take a funicular ride to the top of San Cristóbal Hill for breathtaking views of the city.
  • 8:00 pm: Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in the Bellavista neighborhood, known for its vibrant nightlife.

Things to Know

  • Chile is a country with a high level of security, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
  • The official language is Spanish, but many Chileans speak some English, especially among the younger population.
  • The local currency is the Chilean peso (CLP). You can exchange currency at banks or use ATMs.

Transportation

  • Santiago has a modern and efficient metro system. Buy a BIP! card for easy travel.
  • Taxis are widely available, but make sure to use licensed ones with a meter.

Accommodation

  • Stay in the Lastarria neighborhood for easy access to restaurants, bars, and attractions.
  • Consider booking a hotel or hostel that offers airport transfers.

Day 2: Wine Country and Valparaíso

Morning

  • 9:00 am: Take a day trip to the Maipo Valley, Chile’s premier wine region. Visit Concha y Toro Winery for a tour and tasting.
  • 12:30 pm: Enjoy lunch at a local winery or restaurant in the valley.

Afternoon

  • 2:00 pm: Head to Valparaíso, a colorful and vibrant coastal city known for its street art and unique architecture. Take a stroll along the waterfront and explore the hills on foot or by funicular.
  • 5:00 pm: Visit the former home of Pablo Neruda, now a museum, for insight into the life of Chile’s famous poet.

Evening

  • 7:00 pm: Return to Santiago and enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the trendy neighborhood of Italia.
  • 9:00 pm: End your trip with a visit to the Costanera Center, a shopping mall with great city views.

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, and Australia, do not need a visa for tourism or business stays up to 90 days.
  • Check the Chilean government’s website for specific requirements based on your nationality.

Other Things to Know

  • Chile has a reciprocity fee for citizens of certain countries, including the US. Pay this fee online before your trip to avoid delays at the airport.
  • The country is known for its outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, and surfing. Consider adding an extra day or two to explore these options.

This itinerary provides a great taste of Chile’s capital city and its surroundings, but there’s much more to explore in this beautiful country!