Santiago, Chile
Santiago, the capital of Chile, is a vibrant city nestled in the foothills of the Andes mountains. It offers a fascinating blend of traditional architecture, modern attractions, and delicious cuisine, making it a perfect destination for travelers who want to experience the best of South America.
Trip to Santiago, Chile
Day 1: Arrival & Explore the City Centre
Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take some time to settle in and relax.
In the afternoon, head to the city centre and explore its historic streets, including Plaza de Armas, which is the main square and the heart of the city. Here, you can see some of Santiago’s most impressive architecture, including the Metropolitan Cathedral, Palacio de la Moneda, and the Central Post Office. You can also visit the Museo de Arte Precolombino to learn more about Chile’s indigenous cultures and their art.
Enjoy a scenic walk through Cerro Santa Lucía, which is a park built on a hill that offers stunning views of the city. You can also take the funicular railway up to the top of San Cristóbal Hill for panoramic views of Santiago.
End your evening in Barrio Bellavista, a bohemian neighborhood with plenty of bar and restaurant options, perfect to experience Santiago’s nightlife.
Day 2: Explore the Chilean Coast
Today, head west to explore the Chilean coast with a visit to the coastal city of Valparaiso. The UNESCO-listed town has colorful houses and vibrant street art murals that line the steep hills. It has a lively vibe that is similar to Havana in Cuba.
After a visit to Valparaiso, head to the nearby beach town of Viña del Mar, also known as the Garden City. Admire the town’s beautiful beaches, flower gardens, and striking architecture, including the iconic Casino de Viña del Mar.
In the afternoon, you can head back to Santiago where you can enjoy the city’s culinary scene. Chilean seafood is a must-try, and you can find a range of seafood restaurants and markets all over the city.
Day 3: Visit Maipo Valley
Today, take a tour of Maipo Valley and visit some of the wineries in the region. Sip on some of Chile’s best wines and learn more about the winemaking process. You can visit the vineyards, taste some of the best wines in the area and enjoy a delicious meal at one of the vineyard’s restaurants.
Return to Santiago in the evening for some relaxation or to visit any spots you didn’t get a chance to see earlier.
Day 4: Experience Chilean Culture
Today, experience Chilean culture by visiting the museums and galleries of Barrio Lastarria. You can visit the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, which has a collection of works from Chilean artists, as well as Latin America and Europe. For an immersive cultural experience, you can also visit the Centro Cultural Gabriela Mistral, which features a theater, dance studio, and art exhibits.
In the evening, enjoy a show at Gran Teatro Nacional or visit one of Santiago’s lively jazz bars.
Day 5: Trek to the Andes
Today, you can go on a scenic trek to the Andes. Valle Nevado Ski Resort is a popular spot for trekking, as it has fantastic views of the mountains that surround Santiago. Trekking routes vary in intensity, and you can explore the area on foot or by horseback.
In the evening, stop by Chipe Libre, a bar that specializes in Chilean pisco, a grape brandy that is very popular in the country.
Day 6: Relax in Hot Springs
Today, take a well-deserved break and visit the nearby hot springs at Baños Colina and Termas de Colina, which are a couple of hours from Santiago. These natural hot springs offer a relaxing way to rejuvenate your body while enjoying breathtaking views of the mountains.
Day 7: Departure
It’s the final day of the trip, and depending on your flight schedule, you can explore the city at your leisure before departing for the airport. It is also an opportunity to do some last-minute shopping to buy souvenirs at the Centro Artesanal Santa Lucia or at the famous Costanera shopping mall in Providencia.
This itinerary showcases the best of Santiago, Chile. You’ll discover the city’s rich history and culture while enjoying breathtaking natural landscapes and tasting some of Chile’s best wines and seafood.