Welcome to Santiago, Chile! Start your trip by checking into a hotel and getting settled. Use Kayak to find the best hotel deals. In the morning, explore the historic neighborhood of Lastarria, known for its bohemian atmosphere. In the afternoon, visit the famous La Moneda Palace and take a guided tour. In the evening, indulge in delicious Chilean cuisine at one of the local restaurants. Estimated cost: Hotel - varies, Entrance to La Moneda Palace - $5, Dinner - $20. Estimated time spent: Arrival and hotel check-in - 1 hour, exploring Lastarria - 3 hours, La Moneda Palace tour - 1.5 hours, dinner - 2 hours.
Embark on a city tour to discover the highlights of Santiago. In the morning, visit the historical Plaza de Armas, surrounded by impressive buildings like the Metropolitan Cathedral, Central Post Office, and the National Historical Museum. In the afternoon, take a cable car ride up Cerro San Cristobal to enjoy panoramic views of the city. In the evening, explore Barrio Bellavista, a vibrant neighborhood known for its trendy bars, restaurants, and street art. Estimated cost: City tour - $50, Cable car ride - $5, Dinner in Barrio Bellavista - $30. Estimated time spent: City tour - 4 hours, cable car ride - 2 hours, exploring Barrio Bellavista - 3 hours.
Escape the city and take a day trip to Valparaiso, a colorful coastal town. In the morning, explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic quarter, known for its steep streets, colorful houses, and street art. Take a walk along the Cerro Concepcion and Cerro Alegre neighborhoods, filled with shops, art galleries, and cafés. In the afternoon, visit the famous La Sebastiana, former residence of the poet Pablo Neruda. Return to Santiago in the evening. Estimated cost: Day trip transportation - $30, Entrance to La Sebastiana - $5, Lunch in Valparaiso - $20. Estimated time spent: Round trip to Valparaiso - 4 hours, exploring Valparaiso - 5 hours.
Experience Chile's renowned wine culture with a day trip to the Maipo Valley. Start your morning with a scenic drive to the valley, known for its vineyards and wineries. Visit a few wineries and indulge in wine tasting sessions, learning about the winemaking process. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local vineyard, paired with exquisite wines. Return to Santiago in the late afternoon. Estimated cost: Wine tour transportation - $80, Winery visits and tastings - $50, Lunch with wine pairing - $40. Estimated time spent: Round trip to Maipo Valley - 4 hours, wine tour - 6 hours.
Discover the natural beauty of Cajon del Maipo, an outdoor lover's paradise. Start your day with a hike to the breathtaking Embalse el Yeso, a stunning turquoise reservoir surrounded by majestic mountains. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the reservoir, taking in the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the charming town of San Jose de Maipo and wander through its picturesque streets. Return to Santiago in the evening. Estimated cost: Cajon del Maipo tour - $70, Picnic lunch - $15. Estimated time spent: Round trip to Cajon del Maipo - 6 hours, hiking and picnic - 4 hours, exploring San Jose de Maipo - 2 hours.
Immerse yourself in Santiago's cultural scene on this day. Start your morning with a visit to the Museum of Memory and Human Rights, dedicated to the victims of the Pinochet regime. In the afternoon, explore the colorful Mercado Central, a bustling seafood market. Try some traditional Chilean dishes like ceviche or empanadas. In the evening, catch a theatrical performance or live music show at one of the local venues. Estimated cost: Museum of Memory and Human Rights entrance - $5, Lunch at Mercado Central - $20, Cultural show - $30. Estimated time spent: Museum visit - 2 hours, exploring Mercado Central - 2 hours, cultural show - 3 hours.
Spend your last day in Santiago at your leisure. Consider visiting the beautiful Parque Forestal and the adjoining Bellas Artes Museum, known for its impressive art collection. Take a leisurely stroll along the Mapocho River, enjoying the picturesque views. In the afternoon, indulge in some last-minute shopping for souvenirs at the Pueblito Los Dominicos crafts market. In the evening, savor a farewell dinner at a top-rated restaurant, reminiscing about your Santiago adventure. Estimated cost: Museum entrance - $10, Souvenir shopping - varies, Dinner - $40. Estimated time spent: Exploring Parque Forestal and Bellas Artes Museum - 3 hours, shopping at Pueblito Los Dominicos - 2 hours, farewell dinner - 2 hours.
While exploring Santiago, don't miss the opportunity to visit Barrio Italia, a charming neighborhood known for its vintage shops, artisanal cafes, and art galleries. Another local favorite is La Chascona, one of Pablo Neruda's former houses turned into a museum, located in Barrio Bellavista. Finally, for a unique culinary experience, try the Chilean dish "completo," a loaded hot dog with various toppings, at a local street vendor.