Chile-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Santiago

  • Arrival: Arrive at Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL)
  • Transportation: Take a taxi or bus (such as Tur-Bus) from the airport to your accommodation
  • Accommodation: Check-in to your hotel or hostel in downtown Santiago
  • Places to go:
    • Plaza de Armas: A historic square surrounded by important buildings, including the Cathedral and Government Palace
    • La Moneda: The presidential palace where you can take a guided tour
  • Things to know:
    • Chile is generally a safe country, but pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in tourist areas
    • Be mindful of your belongings, especially on public transportation
  • Activities: Explore the city, visit the Plaza de Armas, and enjoy dinner at one of Santiago’s many restaurants

Day 2: Santiago

  • Places to go:
    • San Cristobal Hill: A popular hiking spot with great views of the city
    • Bellavista neighborhood: Known for its vibrant nightlife and shopping
    • Lastarria Street: A trendy street lined with boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants
  • Things to know:
    • Chilean cuisine is a mix of Spanish, Italian, and indigenous influences
    • Try a classic dish like pastel de choclo (corn pie) or Chupe de mariscos (seafood stew)
  • Activities: Hike San Cristobal Hill, explore the Bellavista neighborhood at night, or visit one of Santiago’s many museums

Day 3: Valparaíso

  • Transportation: Take a bus from Santiago to Valparaíso (approximately 2 hours)
  • Places to go:
    • Cerro Concepción: A scenic hill with views of the city and harbor
    • Paseo Yugoslavo: A historic promenade lined with colorful houses and street art
    • Museo Naval y Marítimo: A naval museum showcasing Chile’s maritime history
  • Things to know:
    • Valparaíso is known for its steep hills, narrow streets, and colorful architecture
    • Be prepared for stairs and uneven terrain
  • Activities: Explore the city on foot, visit one of the many street art murals, or take a scenic drive along the coast

Day 4: Viña del Mar

  • Transportation: Take a bus from Valparaíso to Viña del Mar (approximately 30 minutes)
  • Places to go:
    • Jardín Botánico: A beautiful botanical garden with over 6,000 plant species
    • Plaza de Armas: The city’s main square surrounded by important buildings and shops
    • Casino Municipal: A historic casino that offers gaming, dining, and entertainment options
  • Things to know:
    • Viña del Mar is known as the “Garden City” due to its beautiful parks and gardens
    • Be prepared for crowds and tourist activity during peak season
  • Activities: Visit the botanical garden, explore the city on foot, or take a scenic drive along the coast

Day 5: Puerto Montt

  • Transportation: Take a bus from Viña del Mar to Puerto Montt (approximately 4 hours)
  • Places to go:
    • Puerto Varas: A charming town with German-influenced architecture and beautiful lake views
    • Isla de los Venados: An island with scenic hiking trails and stunning views of the surrounding mountains
    • Puerto Montt Market: A bustling marketplace selling fresh produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs
  • Things to know:
    • Puerto Montt is a great base for exploring the Lake District and its many natural attractions
    • Be prepared for cooler temperatures and possible rain
  • Activities: Visit one of the many nearby national parks or forests, take a scenic drive along the coast, or enjoy water sports on Lake Llanquihue

Day 6: Return to Santiago

  • Transportation: Take a bus from Puerto Montt back to Santiago (approximately 4 hours)
  • Places to go:
    • None
  • Things to know:
    • Pack your bags and prepare for departure the next day
    • Consider purchasing a souvenir or two as a memento of your trip
  • Activities: Spend your last evening in Chile exploring one of Santiago’s many neighborhoods, trying local cuisine, or shopping for souvenirs.

Visa Requirements

As a tourist, you do not need a visa to enter Chile. However, if you plan to stay longer than 90 days or engage in business activities, you will need to obtain the relevant visas and permits.

Additional Tips

  • Be prepared for variable weather conditions, especially during peak season (December to March)
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting indigenous communities
  • Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover unexpected medical or travel-related expenses
  • Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it whenever possible to reduce plastic waste

Have a great trip to Chile!