4-Day Santiago Itinerary on a Shoestring Budget

  1. Wednesday, October 18: Explore Santiago City Center
    10 minutes (1.3 miles) from Santiago Airport

    Start your adventure by exploring the heart of Santiago City. In the morning, visit Plaza de Armas, the main square, and admire the grandeur of Santiago Cathedral. Take a stroll along Paseo Ahumada, a bustling pedestrian street filled with shops and street performers. In the afternoon, head to the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino to learn about Chile's rich indigenous history. As evening falls, immerse yourself in the local culture at Mercado Central, a vibrant seafood market, where you can enjoy a delicious dinner of fresh seafood.

    • Santiago Cathedral: Free, 1 hour
    • Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino: $5, 2 hours
    • Mercado Central: Costs vary, 2 hours
  2. Thursday, October 19: Cerro San Cristobal
    20 minutes (3.5 miles) from Santiago City Center

    Start your day with a hike up Cerro San Cristobal, a hill offering panoramic views of the city. Enjoy the morning breeze and take in the stunning vistas from the top. In the afternoon, visit La Chascona, the former residence of famous poet Pablo Neruda, which now serves as a museum. End your day with a leisurely walk through Barrio Lastarria, a bohemian neighborhood known for its lively atmosphere, street art, and charming cafes.

    • Cerro San Cristobal: Free, 3 hours
    • La Chascona: $7, 1.5 hours
    • Barrio Lastarria: Costs vary, 2 hours
  3. Friday, October 20: Valparaiso Day Trip
    2 hours (70 miles) from Santiago City Center

    Embark on a day trip to Valparaiso, a colorful coastal city renowned for its bohemian vibes and street art. Spend the morning exploring the vibrant Cerro Concepcion and Cerro Alegre neighborhoods, where you can wander through the narrow, graffiti-covered streets. In the afternoon, take a ride on one of Valparaiso's iconic funiculars and visit La Sebastiana, one of Pablo Neruda's other former homes. Enjoy the scenic views, visit local art galleries, and try some delicious seafood before returning to Santiago in the evening.

    • Valparaiso Exploration: Costs vary, 5 hours
    • La Sebastiana: $8, 1.5 hours
    • Local Seafood Lunch: Costs vary, 1 hour
  4. Saturday, October 21: Cajon del Maipo
    1 hour (37 miles) from Santiago City Center

    Spend your last day venturing into the beautiful natural landscapes of Cajon del Maipo. Start with a scenic drive to Embalse el Yeso, a stunning reservoir surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the tranquil water before heading back to Santiago. In the afternoon, visit Concha y Toro Winery for a guided tour of its vineyards and cellars. Indulge in wine tasting and learn about Chilean winemaking traditions. End your day exploring Patio Bellavista, a vibrant cultural and gastronomic center, ideal for dinner and drinks.

    • Embalse el Yeso: Costs vary, 4 hours
    • Concha y Toro Winery Tour: $15, 2.5 hours
    • Dinner at Patio Bellavista: Costs vary, 2 hours

Recommendations

If you have additional time or want to explore further, consider visiting the Maipo Valley for more wineries and scenic landscapes. For a unique experience, take a day trip to the coastal town of Viña del Mar, known for its beautiful beaches and casino. To make the most of your budget, try street food like empanadas or completo, a Chilean-style hotdog. Utilize public transportation, such as the Metro and buses, which are affordable and convenient. Lastly, consider booking accommodations and flights through this link to compare prices and find the best deals.

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