5-Day Family Adventure and Sightseeing in Santiago, Chile

Santiago, Chile

5 days

Plaza de Armas
Cityscape
Barrio Londres in Santiago, Chile
Plaza de las Armas square
Cerro Santa Lucia

About Santiago, Chile

Experience the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Santiago, Chile. Nestled between the Andes and the Pacific Ocean, this cosmopolitan city offers a blend of modernity and history. Explore the bustling Plaza de Armas, the heart of the city, or visit the historic La Moneda Palace. Take a cable car to the top of San Cristobal Hill for breathtaking views. Indulge in local cuisine at the Mercado Central, known for its fresh seafood. Venture outside the city to the world-renowned vineyards of the Maipo Valley for wine tasting. Santiago's rich cultural scene, from its museums and galleries to its lively music and dance, is sure to captivate you. Discover Santiago, a city where natural beauty meets urban excitement.

5-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Heart of Santiago

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the historic Plaza de Armas, the heart of Santiago's old colonial core. The square is surrounded by spectacular architecture and is home to the beautiful Metropolitan Cathedral.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Chilean lunch at a local restaurant. Try popular dishes like 'Pastel de Choclo' and 'Empanadas'.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring La Chascona, the house of Chilean poet Pablo Neruda. The house is now a museum showcasing his life and works.

Dinner

Have dinner at a restaurant offering a panoramic view of the city. Try 'Cazuela', a popular Chilean stew.

Evening

End your day with a stroll along the 'Mapocho River', enjoying the beautiful city lights.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to Cerro San Cristobal, a hill offering panoramic views of the city. Take the funicular to the top.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant. Try 'Curanto', a traditional Chilean dish made with seafood, meat, and potatoes.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon at Parque Quinta Normal, home to several museums and a beautiful park perfect for a family picnic.

Dinner

Enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant. Try 'Chupe de Locos', a traditional Chilean seafood dish.

Evening

End your day with a visit to Sky Costanera, the tallest building in Latin America, for a breathtaking view of the city at night.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino, showcasing pre-Columbian artworks and artifacts from Latin America.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant. Try 'Chorrillana', a traditional Chilean dish made with fries, meat, onions, and eggs.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring Barrio Lastarria, a historic neighborhood known for its bohemian vibe, street art, and antique shops.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try 'Congrio Frito', a traditional Chilean dish made with fried conger eel.

Evening

End your day with a visit to Teatro Municipal, Santiago's opera house, for a cultural performance.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos, a museum dedicated to commemorating the victims of human rights violations.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant. Try 'Charquican', a traditional Chilean stew made with meat and vegetables.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon at Parque Araucano, a beautiful park offering various outdoor activities for families.

Dinner

Enjoy a traditional Chilean barbecue for dinner at a local restaurant.

Evening

End your day with a leisurely stroll around Barrio Bellavista, known for its vibrant nightlife and colorful street art.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to Cerro Santa Lucia, a small hill in the city center with beautiful gardens and a historic fortress at the top.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant. Try 'Empanadas de Pino', a traditional Chilean pastry filled with meat.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring Mercado Central, Santiago's central market known for its fresh seafood.

Dinner

Enjoy your last dinner in Santiago at a local restaurant. Try 'Pastel de Jaiba', a traditional Chilean crab casserole.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to Barrio Italia, a charming neighborhood known for its antique shops and art galleries.

Attractions in Itinerary (15)

Plaza de Armas

1
Plaza de Armas

The main square of Santiago, surrounded by historic buildings and monuments.

Attractions
Landmarks
Metropolitan Cathedral

2
Metropolitan Cathedral

A stunning neoclassical cathedral located in the Plaza de Armas.

Religious Sites
Architecture
Landmarks
La Chascona

3
La Chascona

A house museum dedicated to the life and works of Chilean poet Pablo Neruda.

Attractions
Museums
Cultural Experiences
Cerro San Cristobal

4
Cerro San Cristobal

A large hill in the city center with a sanctuary dedicated to the Immaculate Conception and a panoramic view of the city.

Attractions
Parks
Parque Quinta Normal

5
Parque Quinta Normal

A park that is home to several museums and cultural institutions.

Parks
Cultural Experiences
Sky Costanera

6
Sky Costanera

The tallest building in Latin America, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.

Attractions
Landmarks
Tours
Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino

7
Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino

Dedicated to the study and display of pre-Columbian artworks and artifacts from Central and South America. It has an extensive collection of art, including textiles, ceramics, and sculptures.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Barrio Lastarria

8
Barrio Lastarria

A historic neighborhood known for its bohemian vibe, cultural attractions, and vibrant dining scene.

Neighborhoods
Cultural Experiences
Teatro Municipal

9
Teatro Municipal

A historic theater known for its stunning architecture and world-class performances.

Entertainment
Cultural Experiences
Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos

10
Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos

A museum dedicated to documenting the human rights abuses committed during the military regime of Augusto Pinochet.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Parque Araucano

11
Parque Araucano

A large park featuring beautiful gardens, recreational activities, and events.

Parks
Barrio Bellavista

12
Barrio Bellavista

Known as Santiago's bohemian quarter, Barrio Bellavista is famous for its vibrant nightlife, colorful street art, and diverse culinary scene.

Neighborhoods
Cultural Experiences
Food and Drink
Entertainment
Cerro Santa Lucia

13
Cerro Santa Lucia

A small hill in the center of Santiago with a beautiful park, offering panoramic views of the city.

Attractions
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Mercado Central

14
Mercado Central

A bustling food market known for its fresh seafood and local cuisine.

Attractions
Food and Drink
Cultural Experiences
Barrio Italia

15
Barrio Italia

A trendy neighborhood known for its antique shops, boutiques, cafes, and art galleries.

Neighborhoods
Food and Drink
Shopping

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Empanadas

Empanadas

A popular pastry in Santiago, filled with meat, cheese, or seafood. It's a must-try street food.

Cazuela

Cazuela

A traditional Chilean soup made with meat, corn, pumpkin, and potatoes. It's a staple in Santiago's local cuisine.

Pastel de Choclo

A corn and meat pie, often made with chicken, beef, and olives. It's a classic dish in Santiago.

Churrasco

Churrasco

A sandwich made with thinly sliced steak, tomato, avocado, and mayonnaise. It's a popular fast food in Santiago.

Curanto

Curanto

A traditional dish made with seafood, meat, and potatoes, cooked in a hole in the ground. It's a speciality of the Chiloe Island but can be found in Santiago.

Chorillana

A hearty dish made with fries, sausages, beef, and fried eggs. It's a popular late-night snack in Santiago.

Congrio Frito

A fried conger eel dish, often served with potatoes and salad. It's a common seafood dish in Santiago.

Sopaipillas

Sopaipillas

A type of fried pastry made from pumpkin and flour. It's a popular street food in Santiago, often served with pebre sauce.

Chilean Sea Bass

Chilean Sea Bass

A popular fish dish in Santiago, often grilled or baked and served with a variety of sauces.

Mote con Huesillo

A traditional Chilean summer drink made with wheat and peaches. It's a refreshing drink often sold by street vendors in Santiago.

Pisco Sour

Pisco Sour

A famous Chilean cocktail made with Pisco, lemon juice, sugar, and egg white. It's a must-try drink in Santiago.

Carmenere Wine

A red wine made from the Carmenere grape, which is grown in the vineyards around Santiago.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Santiago, Chile is during the spring (September to November) and fall (March to May) seasons. During these periods, the weather is pleasant and the city is less crowded. The temperatures range from 60°F to 75°F, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, if you're interested in skiing, winter (June to August) is the best time to visit.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

March 30

Sat

Holy Saturday

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

May 21

Tue

Navy Day

June 20

Thu

National Day of Indigenous Peoples

June 29

Sat

Saint Peter and Saint Paul

July 16

Tue

Our Lady of Mount Carmel

August 15

Thu

Assumption of Mary

September 18

Wed

National Day

September 19

Thu

Army Day

September 20

Fri

Extended National Holiday

October 12

Sat

Day of the Discovery of Two Worlds

October 31

Thu

Reformation Day

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day

December 8

Sun

Inmaculate Conception Day

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Santiago's subway system, known as Metro de Santiago, is one of the most modern in Latin America. It's a fast and efficient way to get around the city. The subway operates from 5:30 AM to midnight.

Transantiago is the public bus system in Santiago. It operates 24/7, although with less frequency during the night. The buses cover the entire city and are a cost-effective way to travel.

Taxis are widely available in Santiago. They are black with a yellow roof. All taxis are metered, so make sure the meter is running to avoid being overcharged.

Colectivos are shared taxis that follow a fixed route. They are a popular and inexpensive way to travel, especially for short distances. They can be identified by their black body and yellow roof, similar to taxis, but with a sign indicating their specific route.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Cabify operate in Santiago. They can be a convenient option, especially if you're not familiar with the city or don't speak Spanish. You can book a ride using their respective apps.

Santiago has an extensive network of bike lanes, making it a bike-friendly city. There are several bike rental companies where you can rent a bike for a few hours or the entire day.

Renting a car can be a good option if you plan to visit places outside of Santiago. However, traffic can be heavy and parking can be difficult in the city center. Make sure you're comfortable with driving in these conditions.

Many of Santiago's attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in neighborhoods like Bellavista, Lastarria, and Providencia. Walking can be a pleasant way to explore the city, but be mindful of your belongings and avoid less crowded areas at night.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency$ CLP

Time zoneUTC-3

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 131; Fire: 132; Police 132

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type L

Voltage220 V

Things to know about Santiago, Chile as a first time visitor

1

Santiago is the capital and largest city of Chile.

2

The official language is Spanish, so it's helpful to know some basic phrases.

3

The local currency is the Chilean Peso (CLP). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand.

4

Santiago is located in a valley surrounded by the Andes and the Chilean Coastal Range, which can trap smog in the city, particularly in winter.

5

The city has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers (November to March) with temperatures reaching up to 95°F (35°C) and mild, wet winters (June to August) with temperatures dropping to around 35°F (2°C).

6

Tipping is customary in Chile. A 10% tip is generally expected in restaurants.

7

Public transportation is widely available and includes the Metro de Santiago, buses, and taxis. However, be aware that rush hour can be very crowded.

8

Santiago is generally safe, but like any large city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

9

Chilean cuisine is diverse and delicious. Be sure to try local dishes like empanadas, cazuela, and pastel de choclo.

10

Chile is known for its wine, so consider visiting a local vineyard or trying a wine tasting.

11

Santiago is in the Chile Standard Time zone (CLT), which is 4 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-4).

12

The electrical outlets in Chile are type C and L. The standard voltage is 220 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.

13

Tap water in Santiago is generally safe to drink, but it has a high mineral content that can upset some people's stomachs. Bottled water is widely available.

14

Santiago has a vibrant nightlife with many bars, clubs, and live music venues.

15

Chileans are known for their hospitality and warmth. Don't be surprised if you're greeted with a kiss on the cheek.

16

If you're a U.S. citizen, you don't need a visa for tourist visits of up to 90 days, but your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of departure.

17

Chile has a value-added tax (VAT) of 19% on most goods and services, but foreign tourists can get a refund on VAT for accommodations.

18

Santiago is a modern city with good healthcare facilities, but it's always wise to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

19

Chile is located in an active seismic zone, so familiarize yourself with safety procedures in case of an earthquake.

20

Respect local customs and traditions. Chileans are generally conservative and formal in their dress and manners.

Basic Spanish to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hola

O-la

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Adiós

A-dee-os

Leaving someone

Please

Por favor

Por fa-vor

Making a request

Thank you

Gracias

Gra-see-as

Showing appreciation

Yes

See

Agreeing with someone

No

No

No

Disagreeing with someone

Excuse me

Perdón

Per-don

Getting someone's attention

I'm sorry

Lo siento

Lo see-en-to

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

¿Hablas inglés?

Ab-las in-gles

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

No entiendo

No en-tee-en-do

When you don't understand what was said

Where is the bathroom?

¿Dónde está el baño?

Don-de es-ta el ban-yo

Asking for directions to the bathroom

How much does it cost?

¿Cuánto cuesta?

Kwan-to kwes-ta

Asking the price of something

I would like...

Me gustaría...

Me gus-ta-ree-a

Expressing a desire for something

Help!

¡Ayuda!

A-yu-da

In case of emergency

Call the police!

¡Llama a la policía!

Ya-ma a la po-lee-see-a

In case of emergency

I need a doctor

Necesito un médico

Ne-ce-si-to un me-di-co

In case of health emergency

Can I have the menu, please?

¿Puedo tener el menú, por favor?

Pwe-do te-ner el me-nu, por fa-vor

At a restaurant

Water

Agua

A-gua

At a restaurant or when thirsty

Beer

Cerveza

Ser-ve-za

At a restaurant or bar

Cheers!

¡Salud!

Sa-lud

When toasting drinks

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear (5 pairs)

  • Socks (5 pairs)

  • T-shirts (5)

  • Long-sleeve shirts (2)

  • Jeans or trousers (2 pairs)

  • Shorts (1 pair)

  • Sweater or jacket (1)

  • Pajamas (1 set)

  • Swimsuit (1)

  • Comfortable walking shoes (1 pair)

  • Sandals or flip-flops (1 pair)

  • Hat or cap (1)

  • Sunglasses (1 pair)

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush

  • Toothpaste

  • Floss

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Lip balm

  • Travel-size first aid kit

  • Prescription medications

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash (both local currency and US dollars)

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations

  • Emergency contacts and addresses

  • Guidebook or map

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Universal power adapter

  • Headphones or earbuds

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Books or e-books for leisure reading

  • Travel-size laundry detergent

  • Ziplock bags

  • Tissues or wet wipes

  • Pen and notebook

Weather Conditions

Santiago, Chile, is a city that experiences a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. If you're planning to visit Santiago during the summer months, which run from December to March, you should prepare for hot and dry conditions. Average temperatures typically range from 85°F (29°C) during the day to around 57°F (14°C) at night. It's advisable to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and a high SPF sunscreen to protect yourself from the intense sun. The winter months, from June to August, are quite different. During this period, Santiago experiences cooler temperatures and increased rainfall. Daytime temperatures can drop to around 57°F (14°C), while at night, it can get as cold as 37°F (3°C). If you're visiting during winter, it's wise to pack warm clothing, including a waterproof jacket or umbrella for the rainy days. The shoulder seasons - spring (September to November) and autumn (April to June) - offer mild and pleasant weather, with average temperatures ranging from 50°F (10°C) to 75°F (24°C). These periods are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing, so pack a mix of light and warm clothing. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip to Santiago, Chile. This will help you pack appropriately and plan your activities accordingly. Remember, the weather can sometimes be unpredictable, so it's always best to be prepared.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

29° / 12°

January is the peak of summer in Santiago, Chile. Expect hot days, perfect for exploring the city and its surroundings.

February

29° / 12°

February continues the summer season with warm temperatures. It's a great time for outdoor activities and wine tours.

March

26° / 10°

March sees the start of autumn with slightly cooler temperatures. It's a perfect time to visit the vineyards and enjoy the fall colors.

April

22° / 8°

April is mid-autumn in Santiago, with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists. It's a great time to explore the city's cultural sites.

May

19° / 5°

May brings the onset of winter with cooler temperatures. Pack warm clothes and enjoy the city's indoor attractions like museums and cafes.

June

17° / 3°

June is winter in Santiago, with the lowest temperatures of the year. It's a good time for indoor activities or skiing in the nearby Andes.

July

17° / 3°

July is the coldest month in Santiago. It's a great time for skiing or enjoying a hot coffee in one of the city's charming cafes.

August

20° / 4°

August marks the end of winter with slightly warmer temperatures. It's a good time to visit if you prefer less crowded tourist spots.

September

22° / 6°

September is the start of spring in Santiago. The city comes alive with blooming flowers and outdoor festivals.

October

24° / 8°

October offers pleasant spring weather. It's a perfect time for hiking and exploring the beautiful Chilean landscapes.

November

26° / 10°

November is late spring in Santiago, with warm days and cool nights. It's a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

December

29° / 12°

December is the start of summer in Santiago. It's a perfect time for beach trips and outdoor adventures.

Did you know?

Did you know that Santiago is the capital city of Chile and the largest city in the country?

1 of 10

Places near by Santiago, Chile

Valparaiso

Valparaiso

A vibrant city known for its steep funiculars and colorful clifftop homes.

1.5h
116 km / 72.1 mi
How to get there
Vina del Mar

Vina del Mar

Known as 'Garden City' for its lush gardens and palm-lined avenues. It's also famous for its beaches.

1.7h
121 km / 75.2 mi
How to get there
Cajon del Maipo

Cajon del Maipo

A canyon located in the Andean southeastern portion of the Santiago Metropolitan Region. It's perfect for hiking and picnics.

1.5h
64 km / 39.8 mi
How to get there
Pomaire

Pomaire

A small village famous for its pottery and Chilean cuisine.

1.3h
60 km / 37.3 mi
How to get there
Portillo

Portillo

One of the most well-known ski resorts in South America.

2h
164 km / 101.9 mi
How to get there
Rancagua

Rancagua

Known for its historic sites and vineyards.

1.3h
87 km / 54.1 mi
How to get there
La Campana National Park

La Campana National Park

A national park with a diverse range of flora and fauna. It's also home to La Campana, a massive bell-shaped hill.

1.5h
80 km / 49.7 mi
How to get there
Casablanca Valley

Casablanca Valley

Famous for its many wineries and vineyards.

1h
75 km / 46.6 mi
How to get there
San Antonio

San Antonio

A port city known for its seafood markets and beautiful coastline.

1.3h
108 km / 67.1 mi
How to get there
Los Andes

Los Andes

A city located in the Andean mountain range, known for its beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities.

1.5h
81 km / 50.3 mi
How to get there

Other Destinations in Chile