Santiago-4-day-itinerary

Santiago, Chile 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore the City Center

Morning

  • Breakfast: Start your day at Café Turri, a charming spot with delicious pastries and coffee.
  • Visit: Head to Plaza de Armas, the main square of Santiago, surrounded by historic buildings like the Cathedral and Palacio de la Moneda (Presidential Palace).

Afternoon

  • Lunch: Try some traditional Chilean cuisine at Mercado Central, a bustling marketplace with fresh seafood and local specialties.
  • Visit: Explore the trendy neighborhood of Lastarria, known for its street art, boutiques, and hip restaurants.

Evening

  • Dinner: Enjoy a romantic dinner at Azul Profundo, a cozy restaurant serving contemporary Chilean cuisine.
  • Accommodation: Stay at Hotel CasaSur, a stylish boutique hotel in the heart of Lastarria.

Day 2: Wine Country and Andean Culture

Morning

  • Wine Tour: Visit Concha y Toro Winery, one of Chile’s largest and most famous wineries, located just outside Santiago.
  • Lunch: Savor a wine-paired lunch at the winery.

Afternoon

  • Visit: Explore the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, which showcases an impressive collection of artifacts from Andean cultures.
  • Tea Time: Relax with a traditional Chilean tea, called “onces”, at Café del Patio, a quaint spot in the trendy neighborhood of Providencia.

Evening

  • Dinner: Feast on contemporary Chilean cuisine at Peumayén Ancestral Cuisine, which celebrates indigenous flavors and ingredients.
  • Accommodation: Return to Hotel CasaSur for another comfortable night’s sleep.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventures

Morning

  • Hike: Take a guided hike in the scenic Cajón del Maipo, a canyon located just outside Santiago, offering stunning views of the Andes.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature.

Afternoon

  • Visit: Explore the beautiful Parque Forestal, a large urban park with gardens, lakes, and walking trails.
  • Relaxation: Unwind at Termas Geométricas, a spa featuring outdoor hot springs and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Evening

  • Dinner: Savor a casual dinner at Eladio, a popular spot for burgers and craft beer.
  • Accommodation: Again, return to Hotel CasaSur for another comfortable night’s sleep.

Day 4: Modern Santiago

Morning

  • Visit: Explore the trendy neighborhood of Vitacura, known for its modern architecture, boutiques, and art galleries.
  • Brunch: Enjoy a delicious brunch at Holm, a stylish restaurant with a focus on local ingredients.

Afternoon

  • Visit: Discover the Costanera Center, a modern shopping mall with stunning views of the Andes from its rooftop garden.
  • Farewell Dinner: Celebrate your last night in Santiago with dinner at Boragó, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering innovative, farm-to-table cuisine.

Things to Know

  • Language: Spanish is the official language, but many locals speak some English.
  • Currency: Chilean Peso (CLP); credit cards are widely accepted.
  • Safety: Santiago is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
  • Weather: Santiago has a Mediterranean climate with dry summers and mild winters.

Transportation

  • Airport Transfer: Take a taxi or shuttle from Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) to your accommodation.
  • Metro: Santiago’s efficient metro system is an affordable way to get around the city.
  • Walking: Walking is a great way to explore the city center and neighborhoods.

Tips

  • Learn some Spanish phrases: Show respect for the local culture by learning basic phrases like “gracias” (thank you) and “¿dónde está…?” (where is…?).
  • Be prepared for altitude sickness: Santiago is at a high altitude, so drink plenty of water and take breaks if needed.
  • Respect local customs: Remove your shoes when entering homes or some traditional restaurants.

Other Interests

  • Markets: Visit the bustling La Vega Central Market or Mercado de Abasto for a taste of local flavors and souvenirs.
  • Outdoor activities: Go skiing, hiking, or take a scenic drive to the nearby Andes mountains.
  • Nightlife: Explore the vibrant nightlife in neighborhoods like Bellavista, Lastarria, or Vitacura.