3-Day Itinerary for Santiago, Chile
Santiago, the capital of Chile, is a vibrant city filled with history, culture, and breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains. This 3-day itinerary includes historical landmarks, modern attractions, nearby wine country, and outdoor adventures, ensuring you get the best experience of the city.
Day 1: Exploring Santiago’s Historic & Cultural Landmarks
Morning (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM) – Plaza de Armas & Historic Center
- Start your day at Plaza de Armas, the heart of Santiago.
- Key Attractions:
- Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago – A stunning neoclassical church.
- National History Museum – Learn about Chile’s history.
- Central Post Office & Municipal Building – Beautiful colonial-era architecture.
- Tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
- Try a local Chilean coffee at one of the nearby cafés.
Lunch Break (12:30 PM – 1:30 PM) – Mercado Central
- Eat at Mercado Central, Santiago’s famous seafood market.
- Recommended Dishes:
- Caldillo de congrio (fish soup) – a Chilean classic.
- Empanadas de mariscos (seafood empanadas).
- Recommended Restaurants:
- Donde Augusto (highly rated for seafood).
- El Galeón (great for traditional Chilean dishes).
Afternoon (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM) – La Moneda Palace & Museums
- Visit La Moneda Palace, Chile’s presidential palace.
- If available, watch the changing of the guard ceremony (10:00 AM on alternate days).
- Nearby Museums:
- Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino (Pre-Columbian Art Museum) – A must-visit for history lovers.
- Museum of Memory and Human Rights – Highlights Chile’s past under the dictatorship.
Evening (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM) – Cerro Santa Lucía & Lastarria Neighborhood
- Hike up Cerro Santa Lucía, a small hill with beautiful city views and historic fountains.
- Stroll through Lastarria:
- A bohemian neighborhood with art galleries and boutique shops.
- Try a Chilean pisco sour at a local bar.
- Dinner Recommendations:
- Bocanáriz – A famous wine bar with local Chilean wines.
- Peumayén – Offers traditional Chilean dishes.
Day 2: Wine Tasting & Outdoor Adventure
Morning (8:30 AM – 12:30 PM) – Maipo Valley Wine Tour
- Take a half-day trip to Maipo Valley, Chile’s oldest wine-producing region.
- Top Wineries to Visit:
- Concha y Toro – The most famous winery in Chile.
- Santa Rita – A historic vineyard with a beautiful estate.
- Undurraga – Offers great wine tastings and vineyard tours.
- Activities:
- Learn about the wine-making process.
- Enjoy wine tastings of Carménère, Chile’s signature grape.
Lunch (1:00 PM – 2:30 PM) – Vineyard or Countryside Restaurant
- Many wineries have on-site restaurants offering traditional Chilean dishes.
- Recommended:
- Doña Paula Restaurant (Santa Rita Winery) – Fine dining with wine pairings.
- Casa Valle Viñamar – Stunning views and local cuisine.
Afternoon (3:00 PM – 6:00 PM) – Cerro San Cristóbal & Sky Costanera
- Cerro San Cristóbal:
- Ride the funicular or hike up for 360-degree views of Santiago.
- Visit the Virgin Mary statue and the Japanese Garden.
- Sky Costanera:
- Take the elevator up to the tallest observation deck in Latin America.
- Watch the sunset over the Andes Mountains.
Evening (7:00 PM – 10:00 PM) – Bellavista Nightlife & Dinner
- Explore Bellavista, Santiago’s best nightlife district.
- Dinner & Drinks:
- Galindo – Traditional Chilean food.
- Como Agua Para Chocolate – Romantic atmosphere with great seafood.
- La Chascona (Pablo Neruda’s House) – If interested, visit this before dinner.
- Optional: Enjoy live music, bars, or a dance club.
Day 3: Day Trip to Valparaíso & Viña del Mar
Morning (7:30 AM – 11:00 AM) – Travel to Valparaíso & Walking Tour
- Take a bus (2-hour ride) or a guided tour to Valparaíso, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Key Attractions:
- Cerro Alegre & Cerro Concepción – Colorful neighborhoods with street art.
- Historic Funiculars – Ride the century-old Ascensores.
- Plaza Sotomayor – Central square with naval history.
Lunch (12:00 PM – 1:30 PM) – Valparaíso Seaside Restaurant
- Recommended Restaurants:
- La Concepción – Great seafood and harbor views.
- Casa Luisa – Cozy place with homemade Chilean dishes.
Afternoon (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM) – Viña del Mar (Beach City)
- Travel 15 minutes to Viña del Mar, known for its resorts and beaches.
- What to See:
- Flower Clock (Reloj de Flores) – A famous landmark.
- Beaches – Relax at Playa Acapulco or Playa Reñaca.
- Quinta Vergara Park – A beautiful park with gardens and a historic palace.
Evening (5:30 PM – 8:00 PM) – Sunset & Return to Santiago
- Watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean before heading back.
- Return to Santiago via bus or private transfer.
Final Dinner in Santiago (8:30 PM – 10:00 PM)
- Celebrate your last night with a memorable meal.
- Recommended Fine Dining:
- Boragó – One of Latin America’s top restaurants.
- 99 Restaurante – Innovative Chilean cuisine.
- Ambrosia – Creative dishes with a cozy atmosphere.
Additional Tips for Santiago, Chile
Best Time to Visit: March to May or September to November for pleasant weather.
Getting Around: Use Uber, taxis, metro, or guided tours for easy travel.
Currency: Chilean Peso (CLP), though some places accept USD.
Safety: Santiago is generally safe, but be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas.
Packing Essentials: Sunglasses, comfortable shoes, a light jacket for evenings.
This 3-day itinerary ensures a mix of city exploration, wine country, and a coastal getaway.
