Santiago 3 Day Itinerary

Santiago 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Downtown Santiago

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Bocanariz (Avenida Providencia 2780). This cozy restaurant offers a wide variety of traditional Chilean dishes.
  • Visit Plaza de Armas (Downtown Santiago’s main square) to appreciate the architecture and history. The Metropolitan Cathedral, Central Post Office, and National History Museum are worth exploring here.

Afternoon:

  • Take a short walk to Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino (Calle Moneda 180). This museum houses a vast collection of pre-Columbian artifacts from South America.
  • Head to Barrio Bellavista for lunch at La Vaca Negra (Gonzalo de Cordoba 337). Known for its quirky decor and delicious burgers.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the bohemian streets of Barrio Bellavista, stopping by art galleries and boutiques. Don’t miss the iconic Pulitzer (Irarrázaval 501) mural.

Evening:

  • Catch a performance at Teatro la Peña (Vitacura 4843). This intimate theater offers a variety of shows, from music to comedy.
  • Dine at Restaurante Borago (Calle Elqui 164). Known as one of the best restaurants in South America, it serves innovative Chilean cuisine.

Day 2: Patrimony and Nature

Morning:

  • Visit San Cristobal Hill (Turbulencia Cable Car Station). The hill offers a panoramic view of Santiago and the Andes. Remember to bring warm clothing!
  • After descending San Cristobal, head to Parque O’Higgins for lunch at La Fonda del Centro (Providencia 427). This traditional restaurant serves delicious empanadas and ceviches.

Afternoon:

  • Explore the Museum of Memory and Human Rights (Pedro de Valdivia 2880). It provides insight into Chile’s human rights history under the military dictatorship (1973-1990).
  • Visit the modern Costanera Center for a quick look at the tallest building in Latin America, Gran Torre Santiago. Have dinner at Astoria (Costanera Center, Costanera Sur 3000).

Evening:

  • Take a stroll along Mapocho River and enjoy the nightlife in the surrounding bars and restaurants. Pulitzer (Irarrázaval 501) is an excellent choice for live music and cocktails.

Day 3: Wine Country

Morning:

  • Depart early to the Valle de Aconcagua (approximately 1 hour by car from Santiago). Tours can be arranged through local agencies or self-drive options are available.
  • Spend the morning visiting wineries and learning about Chilean wine production. Some popular wineries include Viña Concha y Toro, Viña Tarapacá and Viña Undurraga.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch will be provided during your wine tour. Afterward, return to Santiago.
  • Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure, perhaps revisiting your favorite spots from Day 1 or exploring new ones.

Transportation:

  • Santiago’s metro system is extensive and affordable. It’s a great way to get around the city.
  • Taxis are also readily available, but be aware of scams, especially during nighttime. Use reputable companies like Catch or Sin Límites.

Where to Stay:

  • W Hotel Santiago (Alonso de Córdova 3550) offers luxury accommodations in a prime location.
  • For a more budget-friendly option, consider Hostel Providencia (Calle Irarrázaval 1802).

Things to Know:

  • Santiago can be quite cold during the evenings, so pack layers!
  • Chile uses Type C and L plugs, so bring an adapter if necessary.
  • Spanish is the primary language, but English is spoken in tourist areas and many restaurants.
  • Tipping in Santiago is customary, with 10% being the standard.

Tips:

  • Try local street food like choripán (sausage sandwich) or sopaipillas (fried bread).
  • Check out local markets like Mercado Central for fresh seafood and traditional snacks.
  • Respect cultural norms and customs, especially when visiting religious sites or historical landmarks.

Enjoy your trip to Santiago!