Chile-2-day-itinerary

Day 1: Santiago to Valparaíso

Morning:

  • 9:00 AM: Depart from Santiago’s Terminal Sur bus station (approximately $3 USD one way) to Valparaíso.
  • 11:30 AM: Arrive in Valparaíso. Start your day with a scenic funicular ride up the hills of this colorful port city.

Afternoon:

  • 12:00 PM: Visit the historic and artistic neighborhood of “Recoleta,” known for its vibrant street art, boutique shops, and local eateries.
  • 2:00 PM: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Valparaíso’s historic quarter. This area is filled with colorful houses, steep hills, and panoramic views of the bay.

Evening:

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant serving Chilean cuisine. Be sure to try the “Pastel de Choclo” (corn pie) or the “Chupe de Mariscos” (seafood stew).

Day 1 Summary

  • Places: Valparaíso’s historic quarter, Recoleta neighborhood
  • Activities: Funicular ride, walking tour of historical sites
  • Things to Know:
    • Valparaíso has a mild climate year-round.
    • The city is known for its vibrant arts scene and street art.
    • Be prepared for steep hills; wear comfortable shoes.

Day 2: Valparaíso to Viña del Mar

Morning:

  • 9:00 AM: Depart from Valparaíso’s bus terminal (approximately $3 USD one way) to Viña del Mar.
  • 10:30 AM: Arrive in Viña del Mar. Start your day with a visit to the “Parque Kennedy,” a beautiful park surrounded by gardens, lakes, and walking paths.

Afternoon:

  • 11:00 AM: Explore the coastal area of Viña del Mar. Visit the “Playa Reñaca” beach, known for its long stretch of sand and calm waters.
  • 2:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant serving fresh seafood. Try some of the unique Chilean dishes.

Evening:

  • 7:00 PM: End your day with a leisurely walk along the coast, enjoying the sunset over the ocean.

Day 2 Summary

  • Places: Viña del Mar’s Parque Kennedy, Playa Reñaca beach
  • Activities: Visit to the park, relaxing time at the beach
  • Things to Know:
    • The climate in Viña del Mar is also mild.
    • This city has a lot of green areas and parks.
    • It’s known for its beaches; enjoy water activities like swimming or kayaking.

Additional Information

Visa Requirements:

  • Citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, and some European countries do not need a visa to enter Chile. However, if your stay is over 90 days, you will need to apply for a residence visa.

Transportation:

  • Bus: The best way to travel between cities in Chile is by bus. Companies like Pullman Bus and Expreso Norte offer frequent departures.
  • Taxi/Uber: Available in both Santiago and Valparaíso but may not be as common in smaller towns.
  • Renting a Car: An option if you prefer more freedom, especially for longer trips.

Other Tips:

  • Currency: The Chilean Peso (CLP) is the local currency. You can exchange your money at airports or major cities.
  • Safety: As with any foreign travel, be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety.
  • Health Insurance: If you’re not covered by a health insurance policy that includes international coverage, consider purchasing additional insurance for Chile.

Remember, the above itinerary can be customized based on your interests, time available, and preferences. Enjoy your trip to Chile!