Santiago, Chile 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Exploring Downtown Santiago

  • Accommodation: Stay at Hotel Plaza El Bosque (3-star) or Hotel Magnolia Plaza (4-star). Both offer convenient locations near popular spots.

  • Morning: Check-in, freshen up, and have breakfast at the hotel or nearby café like Café con Leche.

  • Afternoon: Visit La Moneda Palace, the Presidential Palace, and the Museum of Memory and Human Rights to understand Chile’s history. Explore Plaza de Armas, Santiago’s main square, and admire the Metropolitan Cathedral.

  • Evening: Head to Bellavista neighborhood, known for its vibrant nightlife. Try local cuisine at Alejandro destilerías, which offers a variety of Chilean wines.

  • Transportation: Santiago’s metro system is extensive and affordable. Taxis are also readily available but ensure they use the meter.

Day 2: Visit Cerro San Cristobal & Bellavista

  • Morning: Ride the funicular up Cerro San Cristobal for panoramic views of Santiago. Visit the Virgin Mary statue and the Natural History Museum.

  • Afternoon: Return to Bellavista and explore Patio Bellavista, a pedestrian area with artisan shops, cafés, and street art.

  • Evening: Dine at Jardín Bocanariz, known for its wide selection of Chilean wines and innovative dishes.

Day 3: Day Trip to Valparaíso & Viña del Mar

  • Morning: Take a train or bus to the coastal cities of Valparaíso and Viña del Mar. Explore the colorful hillsides of Valparaíso, its unique funiculars, and bohemian neighborhoods.

  • Afternoon: Head to Viña del Mar, visit the Flower Clock, and enjoy the beach at Reñaca.

  • Evening: Return to Santiago and enjoy a seafood dinner at La Mar by Gastón Acurio in Costanera Center.

Day 4: Exploring Barrios Alto & Bottom

  • Morning: Visit Mercado Central, try local seafood, and explore nearby Barrio Bellavista and Barrio Concha y Toro.

  • Afternoon: Head to Barrio Santa Lucia for a stroll, then visit the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art (MAP).

  • Evening: Dine at Borago, one of Santiago’s top restaurants. It offers a unique take on Chilean cuisine.

Day 5: Last Day & Departure

  • Morning: Visit the modern Costanera Center with its large shopping mall and iconic towers. If time allows, explore Parque Araucano in Providencia.

  • Afternoon: Check out from your hotel, store luggage (if possible), and enjoy a final lunch at Mercado Central or another favorite spot.

  • Departure: Head to the airport according to your flight schedule.