Santiago-6-day-itinerary

Santiago, Chile 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City Center

Morning

  • Arrive at Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL)
  • Take a taxi or bus (Centropuerto or Tur-Bus) to your accommodation in the city center
  • Check-in to your hotel, such as Hotel CasaSur or Hotel Orly

Afternoon

  • Visit Plaza de Armas, the main square of Santiago, surrounded by historic buildings and lively streets
  • Explore the nearby Catedral Metropolitana, a beautiful Catholic cathedral
  • Walk through the pedestrian street Paseo Ahumada, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Donde Augusto, a traditional Chilean restaurant serving delicious seafood dishes
  • Experience the city’s nightlife in the Bellavista neighborhood, known for its bars, clubs, and live music venues

Day 2: Cultural Attractions

Morning

  • Visit the Chilean National Museum of Fine Arts, featuring a collection of Chilean art from the 19th century to present day
  • Explore the nearby Forestal Park, a beautiful green space with walking trails and scenic views

Afternoon

  • Stop by the Palacio de La Moneda, the presidential palace, and take a stroll through the surrounding gardens
  • Visit the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo (MAC), showcasing modern and contemporary Chilean art

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Boragó, a restaurant serving innovative, farm-to-table cuisine
  • Catch a show or concert at the Teatro Municipal, a historic theater hosting various performances

Day 3: Wine Tasting and Vineyards

Morning

  • Take a guided wine tour to the Maipo Valley, one of Chile’s most renowned wine regions (approx. 1-hour drive)
  • Visit Viña Undurraga, a winery offering wine tastings and tours

Afternoon

  • Explore the scenic countryside and enjoy lunch at a local vineyard
  • Return to Santiago in the evening and enjoy dinner at Restaurante 040, serving contemporary Chilean cuisine

Day 4: Outdoor Activities

Morning

  • Take a funicular ride to the top of San Cristóbal Hill, offering panoramic views of the city
  • Explore the scenic Parque Metropolitano, featuring walking trails, gardens, and a zoo

Afternoon

  • Visit the Chilean National Zoo, home to over 1,000 animals from around the world
  • Enjoy lunch at Café del Patio, offering delicious sandwiches and salads in a cozy setting

Evening

  • Dine at Azul Profundo, serving seafood dishes with a focus on sustainable fishing practices
  • Explore the trendy Lastarria neighborhood, known for its boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants

Day 5: Day Trip to Valparaíso

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Valparaíso, a colorful coastal city (approx. 2-hour drive or bus ride)
  • Explore the scenic Cerro Carcel hill, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean
  • Wander through the vibrant streets and admire the city’s unique architecture

Afternoon

  • Enjoy lunch at Restaurant El Pimentón, serving traditional Chilean dishes with a focus on seafood
  • Visit the La Sebastiana palace, a historic mansion turned museum showcasing the city’s history

Evening

  • Return to Santiago in the evening and enjoy dinner at Mestiza, offering innovative, Asian-inspired cuisine

Day 6: Shopping and Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring local markets, such as Mercado Central or Patio Bellavista
  • Visit the trendy Vitacura neighborhood, known for its boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes

Afternoon

  • Depart for the airport (approx. 30-minute drive) and fly back home

Things to Know

  • Santiago is a relatively safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings
  • The city has a mild climate year-round, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
  • Spanish is the official language, but many locals speak some English, especially in tourist areas
  • Credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are easily accessible

Transportation

  • Taxis: readily available, but be sure to use licensed taxis or ride-hailing services like Uber
  • Metro: an efficient and affordable way to get around the city ( approx. 600 CLP / $1 USD per ride)
  • Bus: a convenient option for longer trips, such as to Valparaíso (approx. 2,000 CLP / $3 USD one-way)

Tips

  • Try to avoid traveling during peak hours (7-9 am and 5-7 pm) to minimize traffic congestion
  • Be prepared for occasional protests or demonstrations, which may affect traffic and tourist attractions
  • Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water
  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals

Accommodation

  • Hotel CasaSur: a stylish boutique hotel in the heart of Santiago
  • Hotel Orly: a comfortable, centrally located hotel with modern amenities
  • Airbnb options are also available, ranging from budget-friendly apartments to luxurious villas

This itinerary provides a mix of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and delicious food and wine experiences. However, feel free to customize it based on your interests and preferences. Enjoy your trip to Santiago!