Santiago Chile 5 Day Itinerary
Santiago, Chile 5-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City Center
- Morning: Arrive at Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL). Take a taxi or metro (Line 4) to your hotel.
- Afternoon: Visit the iconic Plaza de Armas, the historic heart of Santiago. Admire the beautiful Catedral Metropolitana and the Palacio de la Moneda, now the presidential palace.
- Lunch: Head to Café Plaza de Armas, a cozy spot for traditional Chilean dishes like Pastel de Choclo (corn pie).
- Evening: Explore the trendy Barrio Lastarria, known for its boutique hotels, restaurants, and bars. Visit La Vega Central Market for dinner, where you can find delicious street food.
- Accommodation: Stay at The Singular Santiago, a luxurious hotel in the heart of the city.
Day 2: San Cristobal Hill and Bellavista
- Morning: Take the funicular to the top of San Cristóbal Hill (Cerro San Cristóbal) for panoramic views of the city.
- Afternoon: Explore the charming neighborhood of Bellavista, known for its bohemian vibe, boutique shops, and restaurants. Visit the beautiful Parque Forestal.
- Lunch: Try Bocata, a popular spot for sandwiches and salads.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at El Living, a trendy restaurant in Bellavista.
Day 3: Museums and Parks
- Morning: Visit the National Museum of Fine Arts (Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes), showcasing Chilean art from the 19th century to the present.
- Afternoon: Explore the beautiful Parque Metropolitano, a large urban park with lakes, gardens, and walking trails. Visit the Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art (Museo de Arte Precolombino).
- Lunch: Head to La Casa de las Enchiladas, a cozy spot for Mexican-inspired food.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at Donde Ernesto, a popular restaurant in the city center.
Day 4: Wine Tasting and Valparaíso
- Morning: Take a day trip to Valparaíso ( approx. 1.5 hours by car or bus). Visit the famous wine cellar Viña Cousiño-Macul, where you can taste some of Chile’s best wines.
- Afternoon: Explore the colorful neighborhoods of Valparaíso, known for their street art and historic architecture.
- Lunch: Try La Sirena del Puerto, a seafood restaurant with stunning views of the harbor.
- Evening: Return to Santiago and enjoy dinner at Boragó, a renowned restaurant in the city center.
Day 5: Lastarria and Relaxation
- Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring the trendy boutiques in Barrio Lastarria.
- Lunch: Head to Parrillan, a popular spot for grilled meats and seafood.
- Afternoon: Relax at your hotel pool or take a stroll around the city before departing.
Transportation
- Metro (Line 4): A convenient way to get around the city, with stations near major attractions.
- Taxi: Widely available, but be aware that traffic can be heavy during rush hour.
- Colectivo (shared taxi): A cheaper alternative to taxis, but may take longer due to multiple stops.
Tips and Essentials
- Language: Spanish is the official language, but many Chileans speak some English, especially in tourist areas.
- Currency: Chilean Peso (CLP), with credit cards widely accepted.
- Weather: Santiago has a Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters. Be prepared for occasional rain showers during winter months.
- Safety: Santiago is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Other Things to Know
- Chilean cuisine: Known for its bold flavors, seafood, and grilled meats. Try local specialties like pastel de choclo (corn pie), Chupe de Mariscos (seafood stew), or Pastel de Papas (potato cake).
- Chilean wine: Renowned for its high-quality reds, whites, and rosés.
- Traditional Chilean festivals: Experience the vibrant culture of Chile by attending festivals like Fiestas Patrias (Independence Day) in September.
Additional Recommendations
- Visit the beautiful beaches near Santiago, such as Playa El Tabo or Playa Mirador.
- Explore the scenic hiking trails around Santiago, like the Cajón del Maipo or Los Quillayes.
- Discover the charming neighborhoods of Providencia and Ñuñoa.
Enjoy your stay in Santiago, Chile!