Santiago-7-day-itinerary

7-Day Santiago Itinerary: A Blend of History, Culture & Modern Charm

This itinerary offers a balanced exploration of Santiago, Chile’s vibrant capital city.

Accommodation: For this itinerary, we recommend staying in Providencia, a trendy neighborhood with great access to public transport and numerous restaurants and cafes. Consider hotels like Hotel Magnolia or The Singular Santiago.

Transportation: Santiago boasts an efficient metro system (Metro de Santiago). Purchase a BIP! card for easy travel. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are readily available too.

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Chilean Peso (CLP)
  • Language: Spanish
  • Tipping: 10% is customary in restaurants.
  • Safety: Santiago is generally safe, but be aware of your surroundings and belongings, especially in crowded areas.

Day 1: Arrival & Historical Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL). Take the bus or taxi to Providencia. Settle into your hotel and have lunch at a local cafe like La Picada.
  • Afternoon: Explore the historic center: visit the Plaza de Armas, admire the Catedral Metropolitana, and wander through the bustling Mercado Central.

Day 2: Hilltop Views & Bohemian Vibes

  • Morning: Ascend Cerro San Cristobal by funicular or hike for breathtaking panoramic views. Enjoy lunch at the restaurant atop the hill.
  • Afternoon: Explore the bohemian neighborhood of Bellavista, known for its colorful street art, independent galleries, and vibrant nightlife. Have dinner at Barrio Lastarria, a charming spot with delicious Chilean cuisine.

Day 3: Wine & Culture Day Trip

  • Join a guided tour to the Maipo Valley, Chile’s premier wine region. Sample renowned wines like Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenere while learning about the winemaking process. Enjoy a traditional Chilean lunch amidst vineyards.

Day 4: Museum Hopping & Green Spaces

  • Morning: Visit the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino, showcasing stunning pre-Columbian artifacts, followed by the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes for Chilean and international art.
  • Afternoon: Relax in Parque Metropolitano, Santiago’s largest green space. Enjoy walking trails, playgrounds, and a zoo.

Day 5: Shopping & Culinary Delights

  • Morning: Browse Las Condes, an upscale shopping district with designer boutiques and department stores.
  • Afternoon: Take a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Chilean dishes like empanadas or pastel de choclo. Enjoy your culinary creations for dinner!

Day 6: Urban Adventure & Nightlife

  • Morning: Cycle through the city using Santiago’s bike-sharing program, Bicicultura.
  • Evening: Experience Santiago’s vibrant nightlife in Las Condes, with rooftop bars offering stunning views and trendy clubs playing Latin rhythms.

Day 7: Departure

  • Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, you could squeeze in some last-minute souvenir shopping or revisit a favorite spot before heading to the airport for departure.

Additional Tips:

  • Learn basic Spanish phrases.
  • Download offline maps and translation apps.
  • Carry a reusable water bottle.
  • Dress in layers as weather can be unpredictable.
  • Be respectful of Chilean customs and traditions.

Enjoy your unforgettable adventure in Santiago!