Santiago Chile 3 Day Itinerary

3-Day Itinerary: Exploring Santiago, Chile

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Chilean Peso (CLP)
  • Language: Spanish (English is spoken in tourist areas)
  • Best time to visit: October - April (Spring/Summer) for pleasant weather
  • Safety: Generally safe, but be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Transportation:

  • Metro: Efficient and affordable way to get around the city.
  • Buses: Extensive network covering most areas. Use “Transantiago” app for routes and schedules.
  • Taxis: Widely available, use Uber or Cabify for safer options.

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Hostal Providencia, Selina Santiago, The Adventure Hostel
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Boutique El Mundo, NOI Vitacura, Cumbres Hotel
  • Luxury: Mandarin Oriental Santiago, Ritz-Carlton Santiago, Grand Hyatt Santiago

Day 1: Historical Charm & City Views

Morning:

  • Explore the Plaza de Armas, the heart of Santiago. Admire the Metropolitan Cathedral, Palacio de la Real Audiencia (now the National History Museum) and the Central Post Office.
  • Visit the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino to discover Chile’s ancient civilizations through impressive artifacts.

Afternoon:

  • Take a funicular ride up Cerro San Cristóbal for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Explore the summit park, visit the Virgin Mary statue, and enjoy refreshments at one of the cafes.
  • Stroll through the bohemian neighborhood of Bellavista, known for its street art, lively bars, and restaurants.

Evening:

  • Dine at La Piojera, a traditional Chilean restaurant with delicious seafood and empanadas.
  • Enjoy live music and drinks in Bellavista’s vibrant nightlife scene.

Day 2: Cultural Immersion & Culinary Delights

Morning:

  • Visit the Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos (Museum of Memory and Human Rights) to learn about Chile’s tumultuous history during the Pinochet regime.
  • Explore the colorful Mercado Central, a bustling market with fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables, and local handicrafts.

Afternoon:

  • Take a cooking class and learn to prepare traditional Chilean dishes like “pastel de choclo” (corn pie) or “completos” (hot dogs with all the toppings).
  • Visit the Parque Forestal, a beautiful park ideal for relaxing walks, picnics, or enjoying street performers.

Evening:

  • Savor a fine dining experience at Boragó, renowned for its innovative use of native Chilean ingredients.
  • Indulge in delicious pisco sours, Chile’s national cocktail, at one of the many bars in the trendy Lastarria neighborhood.

Day 3: Wine Tasting & Andean Adventure

Morning:

  • Embark on a day trip to Maipo Valley, Chile’s premier wine region. Visit renowned wineries like Concha y Toro or Viña Santa Rita for tastings and vineyard tours. Enjoy lunch with stunning vineyard views.

Afternoon:

  • Return to Santiago and explore the Cerro Santa Lucía, a hilltop park offering breathtaking city panoramas and historical ruins.
  • Shop for souvenirs in the bustling Paseo Ahumada, Santiago’s main shopping street.

Evening:

  • Celebrate your final night with a traditional Chilean dinner at El Hoyo, known for its delicious “asado” (barbecue) and lively atmosphere.

Tips:

  • Learn basic Spanish phrases for smoother communication.
  • Download offline maps for navigating the city without Wi-Fi.
  • Bargain for souvenirs at markets, but be respectful of vendors.
  • Try empanadas, completo hot dogs, and pastel de choclo - classic Chilean delicacies!

Enjoy your adventure in vibrant Santiago!