Santiago, Chile: The Ultimate 4-Day Adventure

Discover the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Santiago without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Santiago, Chile offers a great experience for travelers on a limited budget. Visitors can explore the city's free museums and parks, enjoy affordable street food, and take advantage of the city's public transportation system. Hiking in the nearby Andes mountains is a must-do activity for those seeking a breathtaking view of the city.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Hello Santiago!

  • Check in at Plaza de Armas Hostel, great location and value.
  • Visit the iconic Plaza de Armas and its landmarks: Cathedral, Central Post Office, and National Historical Museum.
  • Stroll around bohemian Lastarria neighborhood, filled with restaurants, bars, and boutique shops.
  • Enjoy a delicious dinner at Chipe Libre, a bar and restaurant specializing in pisco, Chile’s national drink.
  • Watch the sunset from the Sky Costanera observatory deck, with breathtaking views of the city.
Day 2

Wine-tasting in Maipo Valley

  • Book a full-day tour to one of Chile’s wine regions, Maipo Valley, with Santiago Adventures.
  • Visit two vineyards, learn about Chilean winemaking, and taste premium wines.
  • Have lunch at a vineyard restaurant, overlooking the beautiful Andes mountains.
  • Try a classic Chilean cocktail, terremoto, made with sweet fermented wine and pineapple ice cream.
  • Return to Santiago, and end the day with a hearty dinner at Como agua para chocolate, serving Chilean-style comfort food.
Day 3

Art and park hopping

  • Start the day with a leisurely breakfast at Café del Opera, a charming coffee shop inside an historic theater.
  • Visit Bellas Artes Museum, housing impressive collections of Chilean and international art.
  • Head to Metropolitan Park, the largest urban park in South America, offering panoramic views of the city.
  • Chill out at Bicentennial Park, with walking trails, lakes, and sculptures.
  • Treat yourself to some gourmet ice cream flavors at Emporio La Rosa.
  • End the night with dinner at the trendy Santabrasa, serving Argentinean-style grilled meats and vegetarian options.
Day 4

Going local

  • Grab breakfast at a typical Chilean café, such as Café Haiti, serving freshly baked bread and pastries.
  • Take a ride on the funicular railway to the top of San Cristobal Hill, the highest point in Santiago.
  • Explore the boisterous La Vega Central market, packed with colorful produce, seafood, and street food stands.
  • Check out the hip Barrio Italia neighborhood, known for its vintage shops and cafés.
  • Have lunch at Fuente Mardoqueo, a local tavern featuring traditional Chilean dishes.
  • Spend your last evening at Bellavista neighborhood, famous for its nightlife, street art, and live music venues.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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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

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Type of trip

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More travel plans

Discover Santiago: A Two-Day Adventure

Santiago, Chile offers an array of cultural and historic landmarks that attract tourists from around the world. Travelers can explore the city's must-see landmarks such as the Plaza de Armas, the Cerro San Cristobal, and the Mercado Central. Additionally, visitors can indulge in the diverse cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and breathtaking mountain views that make Santiago a destination not to be missed.

Santiago on a Budget: Two Days of Adventure.

Santiago, Chile is a budget-friendly destination that offers a unique mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the museums, markets, and historic landmarks in the city's downtown core, or venture out to nearby parks and mountain ranges for breathtaking panoramic views. With affordable accommodations and public transportation, it's possible to experience all that Santiago has to offer without breaking the bank.

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.

Discover Santiago's Charm: A Romantic Day Trip

A romantic trip to Santiago, Chile would be incomplete without exploring its quaint streets, soaking in the stunning views of the Andes Mountains, and indulging in its rich culinary treats. From exploring the buzzing Plaza de Armas to strolling through the picturesque neighbourhood of Lastarria, Santiago offers enough activities to keep couples entertained. The city also boasts of world-class restaurants, serving up everything from traditional Chilean cuisine to international dishes, making for a romantic gastronomical experience.