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Plan Santiago

Chile · South America

3 days in Santiago

Santiago is the vibrant capital and cultural heart of Chile, offering a rich tapestry of museums, theaters, and culinary experiences. It serves as both a crucial gateway to the country's diverse landscapes and a captivating destination in its own right, nestled against the stunning backdrop of the Andes.

Plan this trip, free

Santiago is the vibrant capital and cultural heart of Chile, offering a rich tapestry of museums, theaters, and culinary experiences.

When you plan it, day 1 and the last day fit your journey from home: a long flight keeps them light.

3 days5 days

Day 1 · Historic Heart & Bohemian Vibes

9 stops 4.5 km

MorningImmerse yourself in Santiago's colonial past and rich indigenous heritage.

AfternoonEnjoy city views, then explore the charming streets, cafes, and art of Lastarria and the adjacent park.

EveningVisit Pablo Neruda's house, then experience the vibrant nightlife and dining scene of Bellavista.

Walk between central sites. Metro from Santa Lucía to Baquedano for Bellavista.

Make this trip yours

A free account opens every day of this guide and copies it into your own trip on your dates.

  • All 3 days, 21 stops
  • Route map and walking times
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Must-see in Santiago

Save money shopping

Shop smarter in Santiago

Where prices are lower than at home, the outlets within reach, and how to get the tax back. Editorial picks; check hours and prices on the official sites before you go.

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Where locals shop

  • Jumbosupermarket

    Go-to supermarket chain known for immense variety, quality produce, and bakery goods.

  • Mercado Providenciafood hall

    Historic market hall featuring local produce stands and casual neighborhood eateries.

  • Mercado Vega Centralmarket

    Massive central produce market offering the freshest, cheapest local food in the city.

  • La Vega Centralfood market

    Santiago's largest and most vibrant fresh produce market, a sensory overload of colors, smells, and sounds. It's where locals buy their fruits, vegetables, and other goods, offering an authentic and bustling experience.

Know before you goVisa, safety, money and getting around in Santiago
  • Visa: Many nationalities, including US, Canadian, EU, and Australian citizens, do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days.
  • Safety: Mostly safe · 7/10
  • A day: about $110 mid-range
  • Best months: Sep – Nov
Read it

Know before you go

  • Money$ CLP · about US$110 a day
  • LanguageSpanish
  • Local timeAmerica/Santiago
  • Best monthsSep · Oct · Nov · Mar · Apr · May
  • SafetySafe · 7/10
  • CrowdsBusy

Safety is Travlyo’s own reading, not an official figure. Official advice: US State Department ↗ · UK Foreign Office ↗

Visa

Many nationalities, including US, Canadian, EU, and Australian citizens, do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days.

Read moreShow less

Always check current requirements for your specific nationality before traveling.

Rules change: check for your passport before you book.

Getting around

Santiago boasts an excellent public transport system, including a modern metro and extensive bus network, making it easy to navigate the city. Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Cabify are also widely available and affordable.

What a day costs

Per person, for food, getting around and tickets. Stays and getting there come on top.

See the three stylesShow less
  • Budget: about US$65
  • Mid-range: about US$110
  • Comfort: about US$200

Good to know

Utilize Santiago's efficient Metro system to navigate the city quickly and affordably.

4 more tipsShow less
  • Explore neighborhoods like Lastarria and Bellavista on foot to discover their unique charm and hidden gems.
  • Always carry small denominations of Chilean Pesos for street vendors and smaller establishments.
  • Be mindful of air quality, especially during winter months (June-August), as smog can be an issue.
  • Try a 'terremoto' (earthquake) cocktail at a traditional 'picada' for a unique local experience.

Stories

All
  • RRomeRomanticEchoes Beneath the CobblestonesElena Marsh · 12 days · 2 min read
  • PPragueNostalgicGold Leaf and Bitter FoamAisha Rahman · 10 days · 3 min read
  • MMadridElectricElectric Nights and Goya’s GhostJonas Lindqvist · 8 days · 3 min read

Book for Santiago

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Cover: Chalo Gallardo on Unsplash · Photos via Wikimedia Commons · Map © OpenStreetMap contributors