Chile 5 Day Itinerary

5 Day Itinerary for Chile

This itinerary is a suggestion and can be tailored to your interests.

Day 1: Santiago Arrival & City Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) in Santiago.

    • Visa Requirements: Check if you need a visa based on your nationality. https://www.chile.cl/
    • From the Airport: Take a taxi or Uber to reach your hotel, as public transportation from the airport can be tricky and expensive.

  • Afternoon:

    • Explore Plaza de Armas, the heart of Santiago, with its historic buildings, bustling markets, and vibrant street performers.
    • Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral in the city center.
    • Wander through the Lastarria neighborhood, enjoying its charming architecture, boutiques, and cafes.

  • Evening:

    • Dine on traditional Chilean food at a restaurant in Lastarria.
    • Experience the nightlife of Bellas Artes with its vibrant bars and clubs.

Day 2: Andes Adventure & Wine Tasting

  • Morning: Take a day trip to the Andes Mountains. Buses are readily available from Santiago, or you can hire a private driver for more flexibility.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Andes while hiking in Cajón del Maipo, a popular destination just outside Santiago.
    • Pro Tip: Remember to pack water and sunscreen! The sun is strong in the Andes.
  • Evening: Relax after your hike with a traditional Chilean meal and a glass of Carmenère wine at a local winery.

Day 3: Valparaiso’s Charm & Wine Tasting

  • Morning: Explore the colorful, historic streets of Valparaiso, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city is known for its vibrant street art scene, so keep an eye out!

    • Getting Around: Valparaiso is famous for its hills and funicular railways. Take a ride on these historical “elevators” to enjoy the city’s unique landscape and appreciate the views from above.

  • Afternoon: Enjoy the delicious seafood at Mercado Central (fish market) in Viña del Mar, near Valparaiso.

  • Evening: Wander along the vibrant waterfront of Valparaiso, enjoying the fresh seafood restaurants and soaking up the lively atmosphere.

Day 4: Santiago’s Culinary Scene & Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Mercado de la Reina (Queen’s Market) in Santiago for a breakfast of “completos” (hot dogs with avocado, tomato, and mayo).

  • Afternoon: Explore the bohemian Bellavista neighborhood, known for its art galleries, craft shops, and unique views.

  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Chilean meal like “pastel de choclo” (a savory corn pie) or “pastel de papas” (a potato pie with meat and vegetables).

  • Day 5: Departure Day

  • Morning: Visit the Cerro San Cristobal, a hill with stunning views of the city. Enjoy the fresh air and take in the panoramic vistas while reflecting on your trip.

  • Afternoon: Relax and enjoy the last moments of your time in Chile.

  • Things to do:

    • Visit a museum: Explore the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino or the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes for a final dose of culture.
    • Enjoy a picnic: Pack a basket with delicious Chilean wine, cheese, bread and olives and enjoy a picnic in the beautiful Parque Metropolitano.

Transportation:

  • Use public transportation like the Metro (subway) and buses to experience the city like a local.
  • Consider using taxis or ride-sharing services for convenience.
  • Santiago’s bus system is extensive but can be confusing for visitors. Use a map app to help you navigate.

Visa Requirements:

  • Citizens of many countries, including those from the US, Canada, and EU, can enter Chile visa-free for tourism purposes.
  • Check the specific requirements for your nationality on the Chilean Ministry of Foreign Affairs website: https://www.chile.cl/

Things to know:

  • Currency: The currency in Chile is the Chilean Peso (CLP).**

  • Language: The official language is Spanish, but English is spoken in tourist areas.

  • Culture: Be prepared for a vibrant and diverse culture, with influences from indigenous cultures, Europe and Latin America.

  • Food & Drink:

    • Enjoy traditional Chilean dishes like empanadas, ceviche, and pastel de choclo.
    • Chile is renowned for its wine production, so make sure to savor the local varieties.

For a more detailed itinerary, consider these factors:

  • Your nationality: As mentioned above, check the visa requirements for your country.

  • Time of year: Some activities might be seasonal, like visiting beaches or hiking in the Andes.

  • Length of stay: The visa requirements and duration of stay may vary depending on your passport.

  • Purpose of visit: This itinerary assumes you are a tourist and not traveling for work, study, or other reasons.

Other Things to Do:

  • Visit the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino in Santiago to learn about the history and art of Chile’s pre-Columbian cultures.
  • Explore the vibrant street art scene: Take a walking tour of Valparaiso’s colourful hills and see the city’s murals and graffiti.
  • Wander through the colorful streets and alleys of Valparaiso, admiring the architecture and soaking up the local atmosphere.
  • Enjoy a scenic ride on one of the funiculars in Valparaiso, taking in the stunning views of the city and its colourful houses.

For a unique experience:

  • Visit the Museo de Bellas Artes in Santiago to see a wide variety of art exhibits, from traditional paintings to contemporary sculptures.**
  • Take a day trip to Valparaíso’s historic port, a colorful and lively area with many cafes and restaurants offering delicious food and drinks.

Enjoy the local culture:

  • Explore the vibrant street art: The colourful hillside neighborhoods offer a unique and beautiful backdrop for the art.
  • Visit the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo (MAC) in Santiago, which showcases modern and contemporary Chilean art.