Santiago, Chile Itinerary: Explore Wine Country and the Andes
Santiago, Chile’s vibrant capital, blends culture, history, and modernity perfectly. In just two days, you can explore top attractions like bustling markets and hilltop views such as those from Cerro San Cristóbal. However, Santiago is not only a city—it’s a gateway to some of Chile’s most remarkable regions. Just a short drive away, discover the world-renowned Maipo Valley wine country, home to top vineyards and breathtaking landscapes. For nature lovers, the Andes Mountains offer an unforgettable backdrop, with towering peaks, pristine valleys, and postcard-worthy views at every turn. If you're looking to explore more, Santiago is the ideal starting point for unforgettable trips to Easter Island, Torres del Paine, or the Atacama Desert.
Day 1: Santiago’s Top Attractions and Local Cuisine
Kick off your Santiago adventure at Santa Lucia Hill (Cerro Santa Lucía), a historic park offering panoramic city views. Wander its cobblestone paths, discover hidden fountains, and capture photos of this iconic landmark.
Next, head to Plaza de Armas, the lively heart of Santiago. Surrounded by colonial architecture, including the stunning Metropolitan Cathedral, this square is the perfect place to soak up the city’s energy. Don’t miss visiting the nearby La Moneda Palace (Palacio de La Moneda), Chile’s presidential office, known for its impressive neoclassical design and rich history.
When hunger strikes, dive into Santiago’s renowned food scene. You can join a local Santiago food tour or embark on your own journey. Start at Mercado Central, where you can try pastel de jaiba at Pailas Blancas—a creamy, flavorful crab casserole. Then, visit Zunino, a beloved spot for traditional Chilean empanadas. Each empanada contains a whole olive, adding an authentic touch to this classic dish.
Finish your day with a glass of Carménère wine, Chile’s signature varietal, and celebrate your first night in this lively city.
Day 2: Day Trip to the Andes Mountains and Dinner in Lastarria
On your second day in Santiago, venture into the Andes Mountains for a memorable day trip.
Start your journey with a visit to a winery, where you can enjoy a relaxing wine tasting surrounded by scenic vineyards. From there, continue along the Trans-Andean Highway, a scenic yet winding road connecting Chile and Argentina. Your next stop is Portillo, the oldest ski resort in Chile, where you can enjoy spectacular mountain views and visit the Inca Lagoon (Laguna del Inca), a breathtaking turquoise lake surrounded by dramatic peaks. Relax over lunch with views of the lagoon.
Afterward, head to an alpaca farm for a fun wildlife encounter. If conditions are right, you’ll also catch sight of Aconcagua, the tallest mountain in South America, standing majestically at 22,841 feet (6,961 meters). This journey is best experienced through an organized tour, as the Trans-Andean Highway can be challenging due to its heavy truck traffic and sharp curves.
Return to Santiago in the evening and treat yourself to a meal in the lively Lastarria neighborhood. This area is filled with charming restaurants and bars, perfect for a relaxing dinner. Two standout options include:
Chipe Libre: A vibrant pisco bar offering a variety of cocktails showcasing both Chilean and Peruvian pisco.
Bocanáriz: A highly acclaimed wine bar known for its extensive selection of Chilean wines, paired with thoughtfully curated dishes.
Whether you’re sipping a signature cocktail or sampling a bold Syrah, Lastarria provides an inviting atmosphere to unwind after a day of exploration in the Andes.
Inca Lagoon, Chile
Day 3: Wine Tasting in the Maipo Valley
Spend your third day in Santiago exploring the renowned Maipo Valley, one of Chile’s most famous wine regions. Join a guided wine tour to visit three unique wineries, each offering a different perspective on Chilean winemaking. Along the way, you’ll also stop for a delicious lunch, making this an unforgettable day of indulgence and discovery.
One standout winery on the tour is Campo La Quirinca, a charming estate that’s not only a winery but also a fully functioning farm. The tour guide here provides an engaging and humorous introduction to the winery’s history, the winemaking process, and the stunning grounds. Chile is known for its generous tasting pours, and the Maipo Valley is no exception. If you’re traveling solo these tours are a great way to meet fellow travelers and share a fun, lively experience.
Day 4: Hike Cerro San Cristóbal and Explore Bellavista
How to Hike Cerro San Cristóbal
After breakfast, start your day with a hike up Cerro San Cristóbal, one of the best hikes in Santiago and a must-see attraction. You can choose to ascend via a paved road or take the Zorro Vidal trail for a more adventurous route. To access the trail, enter Santiago Metropolitan Park from Bellavista and walk up the sidewalk on the left side of the road for about 5-10 minutes. You’ll find the trailhead across the road on your right.
If you’re feeling the effects of yesterday’s wine tasting, don’t worry—there’s also a funicular to Cerro San Cristóbal, offering fantastic views of the city and the surrounding Andes without the need to hike. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Santiago and the Andes Mountains in the distance, making it one of the best viewpoints in Santiago.
Bellavista Neighborhood: What to Do and Eat
After your hike, spend some time exploring the Bellavista neighborhood, a vibrant and bohemian area known for its colorful street art, lively atmosphere, and unique shops. Bellavista is also home to several excellent dining options. For lunch, stop at El Palacio de La Chorrillanas, a local favorite specializing in chorrillanas, a Chilean dish of fries topped with meat, onions, and eggs. The restaurant offers an extensive menu of chorrillanas, allowing you to choose from various flavorful toppings to suit your taste.
Whether you’re marveling at Bellavista’s street art or indulging in traditional Chilean dishes, this neighborhood is a must-visit spot to round out your last day in Santiago.
Final Travel Tip: Credit Cards and Tipping in Santiago
Santiago is a very credit card-friendly city, and most places accept major cards. When dining at restaurants, a 10% service charge is typically included in the bill. For tours or guided excursions, it's customary to leave a cash tip for your guide.
Santiago, Chile, offers an unforgettable blend of city exploration, stunning nature, and world-class wine. Whether you're hiking the Andes, sipping wine in the Maipo Valley, or enjoying local cuisine, there's no shortage of experiences waiting for you. Ready to explore the vibrant heart of Chile? Reach out today to plan your journey.
