Santiago, Chile-2-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Santiago’s City Center

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Start your day at the Plaza de Armas (Main Square), a historic heart of the city.
    • Visit the Cathedral of Santiago, a beautiful example of Spanish colonial architecture.
    • Take a stroll around the square and admire the surrounding buildings, including the Town Hall and the Presidential Palace.
  • 10:00 AM: Walk to the nearby Mercado Central (Central Market) for a taste of local cuisine. Try some traditional dishes like pastel de choclo or chupe de mariscos.
    • Address: Av. Liberti, Santiago 8320000, Chile

Afternoon

  • 12:00 PM: Head to the San Cristobal Hill (Cerro San Cristóbal), a popular spot for panoramic views of the city.
    • Take the funicular up to the top and enjoy the breathtaking views.
    • Explore the surrounding park, which features a beautiful botanical garden.
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the Bellas Artes neighborhood, known for its bohemian vibe and street art.
    • Wander through the colorful streets and admire the murals and graffiti that cover the buildings.
    • Stop by the Museum of Fine Arts, which features a collection of Chilean and international art.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at La Parrillada de San Cristóbal, a popular restaurant serving traditional Chilean cuisine.
    • Address: Av. República 11, Santiago 8320000, Chile
  • 9:00 PM: End your day with a drink or dessert at the rooftop bar of the Hotel Plaza El Bosque, which offers stunning views of the city.

Day 2: Exploring Santiago’s Cultural and Natural Attractions

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the La Moneda Palace (Palacio de la Moneda), the official residence of the President of Chile.
    • Take a guided tour of the palace, which features impressive architecture and beautiful gardens.
    • Stop by the nearby Museum of Contemporary Art, which showcases a collection of modern art from around the world.
  • 12:00 PM: Head to the trendy neighborhood of Lastarria, known for its fashionable boutiques and restaurants.
    • Grab lunch at one of the many cafes or restaurants in the area.

Afternoon

  • 2:00 PM: Visit the famous Pablo Neruda Museum (Museo de la Casa de Isla Negra), dedicated to the life and works of Chile’s beloved poet.
    • Take a guided tour of the museum, which features exhibits on Neruda’s life and work.
    • Explore the beautiful gardens and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

Evening

  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at The Wine Cellar, a restaurant located in the historic neighborhood of San Cristóbal.
    • Address: Av. República 11, Santiago 8320000, Chile
  • 8:00 PM: End your day with a visit to the trendy bar district of Providencia, known for its lively atmosphere and diverse nightlife.

Accommodation

There are many great hotels in Santiago, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. Here are a few recommendations:

  • Budget: Hotel Ibis Santiago (starts at $60 per night) - A modern hotel with comfortable rooms and a convenient location.
  • Mid-range: Hotel Plaza El Bosque (starts at $100 per night) - A stylish hotel with beautiful views of the city.
  • Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton, Santiago (starts at $250 per night) - A luxurious hotel with stunning views of the Andes Mountains.

Transportation

Santiago has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses and metro lines. You can also use taxis or ride-sharing services to get around the city. Here are some tips for getting around:

  • Metro: The metro is an efficient way to get around the city, with several lines that cover most areas.
    • Ticket price: $800-1,200 CLP (approximately $1-$2 USD)
  • Buses: Buses are a good option for shorter journeys or if you’re traveling on a budget.
    • Ticket price: $500-700 CLP (approximately $0.75-$1 USD)
  • Taxis: Taxis are widely available and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance.
    • Starting fare: 2,000-3,000 CLP (approximately $3-$5 USD)

Tips and Essentials

  • Language: Spanish is the official language of Chile, but many people speak some English. It’s still a good idea to learn basic Spanish phrases before your trip.
  • Currency: The local currency is the Chilean Peso (CLP).
  • Weather: Santiago has a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters.
    • Best time to visit: September to November or March to May
  • Safety: Santiago is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Other Attractions

There are many other attractions in and around Santiago that you might enjoy:

  • Valparaíso: A colorful port city just outside of Santiago.
    • Address: Av. Alemania 25, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
  • Concha y Toro Winery: A famous wine estate with beautiful gardens and vineyards.
    • Address: Av. Apoquindo 8000, Pirque 9360000, Chile
  • Andes Mountains: Take a day trip to the Andes for breathtaking views and outdoor activities.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Santiago!