Santiago, Chile on a budget: 3 days of adventure!

Discover the cultural richness of Santiago without breaking the bank.

22 June 2023

A trip to Santiago, Chile on a limited budget can be a cost-effective and thrilling experience. With a variety of free museums, galleries, and markets to explore, there’s plenty to keep you busy. Staying in budget hostels and eating at local street food stalls can also help keep costs low.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Explore the city center

  • Check into the affordable Hotel Vegas, located right in the heart of Santiago
  • Take a free walking tour of the city center with Tours4Tips, and learn about Chilean history and culture
  • Visit the impressive La Moneda Palace, the presidential palace of Chile
  • Marvel at the stunning architecture of the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Library
  • Grab lunch at the Mercado Central, a bustling seafood market with tons of delicious options
  • End the day with a sunset drink at the rooftop bar of the Singular Santiago Hotel, with stunning views of the city
Day 2

Discover the art and culture of Santiago

  • Start the day with a hearty Chilean breakfast at Cafe Haití, featuring traditional dishes like completo and sopaipillas
  • Learn about the life and work of Chilean poet Pablo Neruda by visiting La Chascona, one of his three houses turned into a museum
  • Explore the vibrant Bellavista neighborhood, filled with street art, colorful houses and plenty of trendy cafés and bars
  • Visit the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, showcasing a collection of Chilean and international art
  • Head to Patio Bellavista, a lively open-air mall with dozens of restaurants and shops
  • Top off the day with a futuristic cocktail at the sleek rooftop bar of the Hotel W Santiago
Day 3

Escape to the mountains

  • Hop on the metro and take a scenic ride to the charming town of Farellones, nestled in the Andes mountains
  • Experience the thrill of skiing or snowboarding in Valle Nevado, one of Chile's top ski resorts
  • Enjoy a delicious Chilean-style barbecue lunch at the cozy restaurant Parrilla Los Adobes, with stunning mountain views
  • Take a hike in the gorgeous Parque Natural Aguas de Ramón, a nature reserve with waterfalls and wildlife
  • Finish off the day with a ride on the funicular, offering stunning views of the city from the top of Cerro San Cristobal
  • Head back to Hotel Vegas, relax and recharge your batteries before hopping on your plane home.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Santiago, Chile by plane is to fly into the Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport in Santiago. Many major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, United, and LATAM offer direct flights from various cities around the world.

Car

If traveling by car, the best way to get to Santiago, Chile is to take the Pan-American Highway that runs through Chile from north to south. Many rental car companies offer car rentals in Santiago or at airports in the city.

Train

There are no trains that go directly to Santiago, Chile as the country does not have an extensive rail network. The closest train station is located in Talca, about 250km south of Santiago.

Boat

There are no boats that go directly to Santiago, Chile as the city is landlocked. However, cruises that travel down the west coast of South America often stop in Valparaiso, a coastal city located 120km west of Santiago that has a major port.

Bus

One of the best ways to get to Santiago, Chile by bus is to take a long-distance bus from major cities in neighboring countries like Buenos Aires, Argentina or Lima, Peru. The bus terminal in Santiago is called Terminal de Buses Pajaritos and has many bus companies that offer routes throughout Chile as well.

Destination

Santiago

Looking for a city that's as charming as it is chaotic? Look no further than the bustling metropolis of Santiago, where the streets are alive with sizzling street food and energetic locals.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

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Santiago Splendor: A 3-Day Family Adventure on a Budget

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Sip, Savor, and Spark Romance in Santiago

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Santiago On A Budget: The Ultimate Day Trip Guide

A trip to Santiago, Chile can be budget-friendly if you plan ahead. Start by exploring free attractions, such as Cerro San Cristobal or the Plaza de Armas. Save money on delicious Chilean cuisine by dining at local markets or street vendors, and opt for a budget-friendly hostel or Airbnb for accommodations.