Santiago, Chile-7-day-itinerary

7-Day Itinerary: Exploring Santiago, Chile

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Generator Santiago (hostel with rooftop bar), Hostal Providencia (cozy guesthouse)
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Magnolia (stylish boutique hotel), The Singular Santiago (modern design with a pool)
  • Luxury: Mandarin Oriental Santiago (opulent experience), Ritz Carlton Santiago (elegant with city views)

Transportation:

  • Metro: Efficient and affordable, covering most of the city. Purchase a Bip! card for easy access.
  • Buses: Extensive network but can be crowded during peak hours.
  • Taxis: Readily available, use official taxi stands or apps like Uber and Cabify.
  • Walking: Explore the charming neighborhoods on foot.

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Chilean Peso (CLP)
  • Language: Spanish. Basic phrases are helpful.
  • Safety: Generally safe but be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
  • Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated for good service (around 10%).

Day 1: Arrival & Historic Center

  • Arrive at Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL). Take the Metro or taxi to your accommodation.
  • Explore the historic center: Plaza de Armas, Catedral Metropolitana, Palacio de la Moneda (Presidential Palace), Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino.
  • Lunch at “Mercado Central”: Sample fresh seafood and traditional Chilean dishes.

Day 2: Views & Culture

  • Ascend Cerro San Cristóbal by funicular or hike for panoramic city views.
  • Visit the National Museum of Fine Arts (Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes) to admire Chilean art.
  • Evening stroll through the bohemian Bellavista neighborhood, enjoying street art and live music.
  • Dinner at “Patio Andino”: Traditional Chilean cuisine in a charming setting.

Day 3: Wine Tasting & Andean Beauty

  • Day trip to the Maipo Valley for wine tasting at renowned vineyards like Concha y Toro or Santa Rita.
  • Optionally, visit the Andes Mountains for breathtaking scenery and hiking trails.

Day 4: Nature Escape & Modern Art

  • Explore Parque Metropolitano, a vast green space with gardens, zoo, and sports facilities.
  • Immerse yourself in contemporary art at the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo (MAC).
  • Dinner at “Boragó”: Fine dining experience focusing on Chilean ingredients and innovative cuisine.

Day 5: History & Shopping

  • Visit La Moneda Palace and learn about Chile’s history and political system.
  • Shop for souvenirs and handicrafts at the artisan markets in Bellavista or Patio Bellavista.
  • Enjoy a traditional “completo” (hot dog with various toppings) from a street vendor.

Day 6: Coastal Charm & Sunset Views

  • Take a bus to Valparaíso, a colorful port city known for its vibrant street art and steep hills.
  • Ride the historic funiculars for stunning views of the bay.
  • Enjoy fresh seafood at “La Cevichería”: Delicious ceviche with oceanfront views.
  • Watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean from one of Valparaíso’s many viewpoints.

Day 7: Farewell & Departure

  • Enjoy a final Chilean breakfast with “completos” or empanadas.
  • Visit a local market for last-minute souvenirs.
  • Depart from Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL).

Tips:

  • Learn basic Spanish phrases.
  • Download offline maps and translation apps.
  • Carry small denominations of Chilean pesos for transportation and smaller purchases.
  • Be prepared for varying weather conditions, especially in the Andes.
  • Drink bottled water.
  • Enjoy the vibrant nightlife scene but be aware of your surroundings.
  • Embrace the local culture and try traditional Chilean dishes and beverages like “pisco sour.”