Santiago 2 weeks

Santiago's main international airport. Upon arrival, you'll go through immigration and customs. Consider pre-booking a transfer or using a reputable taxi service to reach your accommodation.

• Have Chilean Pesos (CLP) or a credit card ready for airport taxis or transfers.
• Download offline maps of Santiago before you land.

The historic heart of Santiago, this main square is surrounded by important buildings like the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Central Post Office, and the National History Museum. It's a lively spot with street performers and vendors.

• Be aware of your surroundings due to pickpockets.
• Look for the equestrian statue of Pedro de Valdivia.

A stunning neoclassical cathedral overlooking Plaza de Armas, this is the spiritual center of the city. Its interior features beautiful architecture and religious art, offering a peaceful respite.

A bustling seafood market and restaurant complex, famous for its fresh catches and traditional Chilean dishes. Enjoy a lively atmosphere and sample local delicacies like 'caldillo de congrio' (conger eel stew).

• Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak hours.
• Try a Pisco Sour, Chile's national cocktail.

This museum houses an exceptional collection of pre-Columbian art and artifacts from across Latin America, offering deep insights into ancient civilizations. It's a well-curated and visually stunning experience.

• Allow ample time to appreciate the diverse exhibits.
• Audio guides are available and recommended for deeper understanding.

A bohemian and charming neighborhood known for its independent boutiques, artisan shops, art galleries, and excellent restaurants and cafes. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll and soaking in the local atmosphere.

Santiago's oldest park, stretching along the Mapocho River. It's ideal for a relaxing walk, with tree-lined paths, sculptures, and the impressive Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes at its edge.

Housed in a beautiful Beaux-Arts building, this museum showcases Chilean art from the colonial period to the present day. Its impressive architecture is as captivating as the artworks within.

Ascend this iconic hill for panoramic views of Santiago and the Andes. The funicular offers a scenic ride up, and at the summit, you'll find the Virgin Mary statue and various viewpoints.

• Go just before sunset for spectacular city lights.
• The summit has food stalls and cafes.

The historic seat of the Chilean President and government. You can admire its architecture from the outside, and on certain days, a guided tour is available (booking essential).

• Check the official La Moneda website for tour availability and booking procedures well in advance.
• The Changing of the Guard ceremony occurs on specific days and times.

Located beneath La Moneda Palace, this cultural center hosts rotating exhibitions, often focusing on art, photography, and history. It's a modern space with excellent displays.

A vibrant neighborhood known for its antique shops, interior design stores, independent designers, and a diverse culinary scene. It's a fantastic place to discover unique finds and enjoy a relaxed lunch.

Two of Santiago's main pedestrian streets, bustling with shops, cafes, and street life. They offer a glimpse into everyday Santiago commerce and are great for people-watching.

A popular mid-range restaurant in Barrio Italia offering a wide variety of Chilean and international dishes in a trendy setting. Known for its good service and diverse menu.

Take a comfortable bus from Santiago's main bus terminals (e.g., Terminal Alameda) to Valparaíso. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours and offers scenic views.

• Book tickets in advance, especially on weekends or holidays.
• Companies like Turbus and Pullman Bus offer frequent services.

These adjacent hills are the heart of Valparaíso's bohemian charm, famous for their colorful houses, street art, charming cafes, and artisan shops. Explore the narrow, winding streets and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

• Wear comfortable shoes as the hills are steep and cobblestoned.
• Take the Ascensor (funicular) up to enjoy the views and save your legs.

One of Valparaíso's iconic funiculars, offering a historic ride up Cerro Concepción. It provides stunning views of the bay and the city's colorful architecture.

One of poet Pablo Neruda's unique homes, perched on a hill overlooking the Pacific. It's filled with nautical-themed objects and offers incredible views, reflecting Neruda's eclectic taste.

• Book tickets online in advance, as tours fill up quickly.
• The climb to the house is steep; consider a taxi from the city center.

Return to Santiago by bus from Valparaíso's main bus terminal.

Located in the Casablanca Valley, known for its excellent white wines like Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. This winery offers guided tours and tastings with beautiful vineyard views.

• Casablanca Valley is about a 1-hour drive from Santiago.
• Consider booking a private transfer or joining a guided tour for ease of transport.

Enjoy a gourmet lunch paired with their wines at the winery's restaurant. The cuisine often features fresh, local ingredients.

Experience Chile's first large-scale organic winery. Learn about sustainable viticulture practices and enjoy a tasting of their biodynamic wines in a picturesque setting.

• This winery is also in the Casablanca Valley, making it feasible to visit two in one day if planned well.
• Their commitment to sustainability is a unique aspect to explore.

Drive back to Santiago after a day of wine tasting.

A stunning turquoise reservoir in the Cajón del Maipo, surrounded by dramatic Andean peaks. The drive itself is scenic, with opportunities for short hikes and enjoying the mountain air.

• This is a full-day trip; start early.
• The road can be challenging; a 4x4 vehicle is recommended, or join a guided tour.
• It can be cold even in summer; dress in layers.

A charming small town at the entrance to the Cajón del Maipo. It's a good place to stop for lunch and experience a more rural Chilean atmosphere.

Natural hot springs located further up the Cajón del Maipo. These terraced pools offer a relaxing soak with incredible mountain views.

• Bring swimwear and a towel.
• The road to the hot springs is unpaved and rough.

Drive back to Santiago after a day in the mountains.

A vibrant and chaotic market where locals shop for fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and more. It's a feast for the senses and a great place to experience authentic Santiago life.

• Sample some of the fresh juices or empanadas from the food stalls.
• Go with an open mind and be ready for a lively atmosphere.

Discover a 'picada,' a small, unpretentious eatery serving delicious, traditional Chilean food at great prices. Ask locals for recommendations for the best authentic experience.

Known for its bohemian vibe, street art, and lively nightlife. During the day, explore its colorful streets, artisan shops, and cafes. It's also home to La Chascona, another of Neruda's houses.

Pablo Neruda's house in Barrio Bellavista, designed by the poet himself. It's a quirky and intimate space filled with his personal collections and offers insights into his life.

• Audio guides are available and highly recommended.
• The house is built on a steep slope, with many stairs.

Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in Bellavista, offering a range of cuisines from traditional Chilean to international. The area comes alive at night.

A large, modern urban park in the northern part of Vitacura. It features lagoons, walking paths, sports facilities, and is a popular spot for locals to relax and exercise.

Located atop the Costanera Center, South America's tallest skyscraper. The observation deck offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Santiago and the surrounding Andes mountains.

• Best visited on a clear day for optimal views.
• The surrounding Costanera Center is a major shopping mall.

A massive shopping mall with a wide array of international and local brands, restaurants, and a cinema. It's a modern hub for retail therapy.

Explore the upscale neighborhoods of Providencia or Las Condes for dinner. These areas offer a wide range of dining options, from fine dining to trendy bistros.

A powerful and essential museum dedicated to the victims of human rights violations during Chile's dictatorship. It's a somber but crucial visit for understanding the country's recent history.

• Allow yourself time to process the exhibits.
• Audio guides are available and provide valuable context.

Find a local eatery in the vicinity of the museum, perhaps in the Quinta Normal area, for a simple and authentic Chilean lunch.

Located in Quinta Normal Park, this museum covers natural history, anthropology, and zoology, with a significant focus on Chile's unique biodiversity and indigenous cultures.

A large public park that houses several museums, including the Natural History Museum and the Museum of Science and Technology. It's a popular spot for families and offers green space for relaxation.

Explore the historic Barrio Yungay, known for its beautiful 19th-century architecture and emerging culinary scene. It offers a more local and less touristy dining experience.

Join a guided tour focused on Santiago's vibrant street art scene, particularly in areas like Bellavista. Alternatively, if you missed it, consider a day trip to Valparaíso for its world-renowned murals.

• Many tours start early in the morning.
• Valparaíso is famous for its expansive murals covering entire buildings.

Enjoy lunch at one of the many charming cafes in Bellavista, offering a relaxed atmosphere and diverse menu options.

A smaller, more intimate market than La Vega, offering a good selection of fresh produce, artisanal products, and food stalls. It's a great spot for authentic local flavors.

Experience Santiago's nightlife by visiting a bar in either Barrio Italia for a more relaxed, trendy vibe or Barrio Bellavista for a livelier atmosphere. Try local craft beers or Pisco cocktails.

Take a bus from Santiago to Viña del Mar, a popular coastal resort city known for its beaches and gardens. The journey is approximately 2 hours.

• Buses depart frequently from main terminals.
• Consider visiting Valparaíso on the same day if you are efficient.

An iconic landmark in Viña del Mar, this giant clock is made of flowers and set in a garden. It's a popular photo spot and a symbol of the city.

Stroll along the city's main beaches, like Playa Caleta Abarca or Playa Acapulco. Enjoy the ocean breeze, watch the waves, and perhaps relax on the sand.

A large public park housing the Quinta Vergara Amphitheater (famous for the Viña del Mar International Song Festival) and the Museum of Fine Arts.

Return to Santiago by bus after a day by the sea.

A beautifully landscaped park with lagoons, walking trails, and modern sculptures. It's a peaceful escape and showcases contemporary urban planning.

Dine in the upscale neighborhoods of Vitacura or Las Condes, known for their sophisticated restaurants and modern culinary scene. This area offers a contrast to the more traditional eateries.

A local market with a focus on fresh produce, artisanal foods, and a few small eateries. It offers a more curated experience than the larger markets.

A modern public library with striking architecture, often hosting cultural events and exhibitions. It's a great example of contemporary public spaces in Santiago.

Find a rooftop bar or a bar with a view in the financial district (Sanhattan) or near Providencia for evening drinks as the city lights up.

Even outside ski season, Valle Nevado offers stunning mountain views and fresh air. In winter (June-September), it's a premier ski destination. In summer, it's great for hiking and enjoying the scenery.

• This is a full-day excursion.
• The road to Valle Nevado is winding and requires careful driving. Consider a tour or rental car with chains if visiting in winter.
• Check weather conditions before you go.

Enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants or cafes at Valle Nevado, offering hearty mountain fare with spectacular views.

Located on the way to Valle Nevado, this park offers activities like zip-lining, canopy tours, and panoramic viewpoints, especially popular during the winter season for snow activities.

• Activities are seasonal; check availability.
• It's a great spot for families with children.

Drive back to Santiago from the mountains.

Pick up any last-minute souvenirs or gifts. Areas like Barrio Lastarria or small shops near your hotel are good options.

Enjoy a final Chilean meal at a restaurant of your choice, perhaps revisiting a favorite or trying a place you missed.

Head to the airport for your departure. Allow ample time for travel, check-in, and security.

• Book your airport transfer in advance for a stress-free departure.
• Consider leaving your hotel at least 3 hours before your flight.