Santiago de Chile is the vibrant capital of Chile and a bustling metropolis nestled between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. This city offers a blend of old-world charm, modern amenities, and stunning natural beauty.

Where is Santiago de Chile

Santiago de Chile is located in central Chile, on the banks of the Mapocho River.

How to get to Santiago de Chile

If you arrive by plane to the Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport you have a number of options to get into Santiago

Bus: Buses are the cheapest way to travel to and from the airport. There are two companies that offer the service: Turbus and Centropuerto. The buses are taken right outside of the airport, between exits 4 and 5. Tickets can be purchased on the bus or in the booths located close by. The trip takes approximately 45 minutes to arrive to central Santiago.
For more information on stops and schedules, you can check websites of both companies: Centropuerto and Turbus.
Shared transfer: Instead of a public bus you share a van or minibus. Two companies that provide this service, both with booths inside the airport (before the arrivals gate): Delfos and Transvip. You can check the price of the trip to the address you are heading, directly on the Delfos and Transvip websites.

Taxi: More expensive but are faster and more convenient. We would recommend using the official taxi services from the counter. The prices will be more expensive but you will get a fixed rate and avoid being scammed.

Getting Around Santiago de Chile

Santiago has a Metro and Bus system that you can use to get around the city. To use buses and the metro you can purchase a “bip!” card which is a rechargeable travel card. You will need this to use buses, but for the Metro you can buy single use tickets.
Santiago is also a very walkable city and most of the attractions are walkable without public transport, and you get to see more of the city and who knows you may find a hidden germ!

TRAVEL TIP You will find taxis all over central Santiago as well just remember to agree the fair before getting in unless it's a metered taxi(confirm this also).

When is the best time to visit Santiago de Chile

Summer (December–February): The peak tourist season, with hot temperatures averaging between 11 °C (52 °F) – 30 °C (86 °F)
Spring and Autumn: Milder weather with temperatures averaging between 5 °C (41 °F) – 25 °C (77 °F). The weather is more pleasant in spring and Autumn.
Winter (May–August): Low season, colder temperatures, but fewer crowds with temperatures averaging between 3 °C (37 °F) – 16 °C (61 °F). Visit this time of year for winter sports.

Our Verdict: Shoulder season has mild weather and less rain than summer.

Where to stay

Santiago de Chile is a large sprawling city with loads of accommodation options. We would recommend staying centrally for easy access to attractions and safety.
Bellavista – A colourful chic neighbourhood with loads of bars and restaurants.
Centro Historico – Like most cities staying in anywhere in central Santiago will give you easy access to attractions and places to eat out.

Things to do in Santiago de Chile

Parque Metropolitano

Cerro San Cristóbal rises high above Santiago and offers breath taking panoramic views of the entire city and the surrounding Andes Mountains. The natural landmark is a must see for anyone visiting the city, featuring a funicular railway that transports you to the summit. At the top, you’ll find a giant statue of the Virgin Mary and you can also take the cable car to the other side of the mountain for even more awesome views and a bunch of other activities. There are hiking trails, bike paths and various viewpoints and gardens dotted around the area.

Bellavista

Bellavista is a vibrant and lively neighbourhood known for its blend of art, culture, and nightlife. There are loads of restaurants, bars, and art galleries to explore and definitely the place to come to grab some dinner or chill out at a bar.

Mercado Central

Mercado Central a historic market dating back to 1872, its renowned for its distinctive cast-iron architecture and array of fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies. Mercado Central is a must-visit for foodies or if you are looking to try Chilean cuisine.

Plaza de Armas

Plaza de Armas is a historic city square that serves as the centrepiece of the capital. Framed by colonial-era architecture, the plaza is filled with lush palm trees and a central fountain. It’s a gathering place for both locals and tourists alike.

Cerro Santa Lucía

Cerro Santa Lucía is located in the heart of Santiago and rises 70m above street level. The park has lush gardens, picturesque pathways, and panoramic views of the city. It is a great green space to escape the hustle and bustle and also to get some amazing panoramic views.

Day trip to Valparaiso

Valparaiso is only a 2 hour bus ride away and a perfect day trip from Santiago. Explore the colourful seaside city and get lost in it passageways that are covered in street art. Check out our guide for more info.

TRAVEL TIP: All of these places are marked in the handy map above!

Where to Eat & Drink

El Rapido: This little place is a popular place for locals to grab breakfast or lunch and are known for their empanadas and fast service.

Emporio La Rosa: Centrally located off Plaza de Armas Emporio la Rosa sells delicious ice cream that is perfect to escape the Santiago summer heat.

Mote con Huesillo: Mote con Huesillo is a very different Chilean drink that consists of sweet syrup with husked wheat and dried peach. It doesn’t look that appealing and has lots textures going on but it’s refreshing on a hot day. You will see this drink for sale in street food carts dotted all around Santiago.

Galindo: Beutiful little restaurant in Bellavista that also has outdoor seating. We really enjoyed the Pastel de Choclo. Once you are done with dinner head just down the road to Harrys Bar for a cheeky after dinner drink.

La Loncheria Bar Restaurant: Super local, no frills, cheap restaurant in central Santiago the Chorrillana here is delightful and wash it down with a pint of Austral.

Next Stop:

Also check out our YouTube video for Santiago de Chile!