7 days in Santiago de Chile, Chile: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Santiago de Chile, the vibrant capital of Chile, is a city that never disappoints. Stroll through its bustling streets, and you’ll discover an array of unforgettable experiences. From the chic, artsy neighborhoods of Bellavista and Lastarria to the majestic Andes Mountains flanking the cityscape, Santiago offers an unforgettable urban adventure. Savor the tastes of Chilean wine at legendary vineyards, and indulge in the city’s thriving culinary scene. Santiago, a city of contrasts that blends the modern with the historic, is waiting for you to explore.
Things to consider before arriving in Santiago
- Gorgeous landscapes: Santiago is nestled between the Andes and Coastal Mountain Ranges, offering stunning views.
- Rich culinary scene: Local cuisine, wine, and Pisco will delight your taste buds.
- Air pollution: Occasionally, the city can experience smog and poor air quality, particularly in winter.
- Perfect for: Adventure enthusiasts, foodies, and history buffs will fall in love with Santiago.
What to bring with you
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city
- Layers of clothing for varying temperatures
- Sunscreen and sunglasses, even in winter
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated as you explore
Best time of the year to visit Santiago
The ideal time to visit Santiago is during its spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May). During these shoulder seasons, the weather is more temperate, and there are fewer crowds than during the summer months.
How to get into the city
- By air: Fly into Santiago’s Comodoro Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport (SCL), the largest airport in Chile. From there, you can take a taxi, shuttle, or public transportation to the city center.
- By bus: Long-distance buses arrive from other cities in Chile and neighboring countries like Argentina, Bolivia, and Peru. Santiago’s central bus station, Terminal Alameda, is located near the Universidad de Santiago metro station.
- By car: If you’re coming from a neighboring country or another city in Chile, you can take the modern and well-maintained highways that connect Santiago to the rest of the country. Remember to consider toll fees on major highways and border crossing requirements if coming from abroad.
7 day city guide trip in Santiago de Chile
Day 1 – Downtown Santiago
Start your day by visiting the famous Plaza de Armas, the main square of Santiago where you can see the Metropolitan Cathedral, the National Historical Museum and the Central Post Office. Then, head to Mercado Central, a fantastic place to try some fresh seafood, and finish the day with a view of the entire city at Cerro San Cristobal.
Day 2 – Barrio Bellavista
In Bellavista, you will find the heart of the city’s bohemian life, where colorful street art and a lively atmosphere coexist. Visit the famous Pablo Neruda’s La Chascona Museum or enjoy eating at one of the many restaurants in the neighborhood. End the day with a performance at Teatro del Puente, a cultural center with a vibrant program of plays, music and dance.
Day 3 – Day trip to Valparaiso
Take a day trip to the charming coastal city of Valparaiso, located just two hours away from Santiago. You will be captivated by the colorful houses, stunning views and street art that make Valparaiso one of the most picturesque cities in Chile.
Day 4 – Cajon del Maipo
Escape from the city and go on a hiking trip to Cajon del Maipo, a beautiful canyon located in the Andes mountain range. After a long day of trekking, relax and enjoy a natural hot spring.
Day 5 – Museums and galleries
Discover Santiago’s art scene by visiting the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes and the Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos, where you can learn about Chile’s history and social conflict. Additionally, explore contemporary art galleries like Isabel Croxatto Galería and Lira Arte Contemporáneo.
Day 6 – Wine tour
Take a trip to the Casablanca Valley, one of Chile’s most famous wine regions. Visit vineyards like Casa del Bosque and Bodegas RE to learn about local winemaking and sample some delicious wines.
Day 7 – Market and street food
Start your day at La Vega Central, a bustling market where you can find fresh produce, seafood, and meat. Enjoy a Chilean breakfast of empanadas and café con leche, then stroll through the streets of Santiago’s Barrio Brasil, which offers a charming mix of colonial architecture and street art.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in Santiago de Chile
If you have already explored Santiago, consider visiting the nearby cities of Viña del Mar and Valparaiso. Viña del Mar is a modern city on the coast, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. Valparaiso, on the other hand, is a charming colonial city with colorful houses and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Both cities are easily accessible by bus or car, and offer a perfect contrast to the bustling urban life of Santiago.
