Two Days in Santiago, Chile

• Day 1:
  • Palacio de la Moneda: This is the seat of the President of Chile and a historical landmark. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace and learn about Chile's political history.
  • Cerro Santa Lucía: A hill located in the center of the city that features beautiful gardens and views of Santiago.
  • Plaza de Armas: This is the main square of Santiago that has been central to the city's history since the colonial times. At the square, visitors can admire the architecture of the Metropolitan Cathedral and other nearby buildings.
  • Mercado Central: This is a popular seafood market where visitors can try local dishes like ceviche.
• Day 2:
  • Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes: A fine arts museum that exhibits a wide range of Chilean art from the 19th century to the present day.
  • Barrio Bellavista: A bohemian neighborhood full of colorful houses, street art, and nightlife options.
  • Cerro San Cristóbal: A hill with a large park, zoo, and a 22-meter-high statue of the Virgin Mary at the summit. From the top, visitors can enjoy the panoramic views of Santiago.
  • La Chascona: This is one of the former homes of famed Chilean poet Pablo Neruda that has been turned into a museum. It is a must-visit for literature enthusiasts.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Palacio de la Moneda (1 hour, free)
• Cerro Santa Lucía (1-2 hours, free)
• Plaza de Armas (30 minutes, free)
• Mercado Central (1-2 hours, cost varies)
• Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (2 hours, free)
• Barrio Bellavista (2-3 hours, cost varies)
• Cerro San Cristóbal (2-3 hours, free)
• La Chascona (1-2 hours, cost varies)
Total Estimated Costs: Varies depending on activities and meals

Transportation

To get around Santiago, visitors can use the Santiago Metro system, which is efficient and affordable. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are also widely available, but visitors should be aware of potential scams. It is recommended to only take registered taxis and to negotiate the fare before starting the ride. Travel time may vary depending on traffic.

Useful Tips

If visitors have more time, they can consider visiting other attractions like the Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos or taking a day trip to the Andes Mountains. On the other hand, if visitors have less time, they can skip some activities and focus on the ones that interest them the most. It is also a good idea to try local food like empanadas and pisco sour. Lastly, visitors should be mindful of pickpockets and keep their belongings close to them in crowded areas.