3 day itinerary for Santiago De Chile By Car

Itinerary

Santiago de Chile is a vibrant city with a rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious food. With a car, you’ll have the freedom to explore both the city and its beautiful surroundings. Here’s a fun and engaging 3-day itinerary for you:

## Day 1: Explore Santiago’s Heart

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café. Try a marraqueta (a type of bread) with avocado and a café con leche.
• Plaza de Armas: Head to the historic Plaza de Armas, the heart of Santiago. Check out the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Central Post Office. Snap some photos and soak in the atmosphere!

Midday:

• La Moneda Palace: Drive over to La Moneda, the presidential palace. You can take a guided tour if you’re interested in Chilean politics and history.
• Lunch in Barrio Lastarria: This charming neighborhood is filled with cafes and restaurants. Try some Chilean empanadas or a pastel de choclo (corn pie) at a local eatery.

Afternoon:

• Cerro San Cristóbal: After lunch, drive to Cerro San Cristóbal. You can hike or take the funicular to the top for breathtaking views of the city and the Andes. Don’t forget to visit the statue of the Virgin Mary at the summit!

Evening:

• Dinner in Bellavista: Head to the Bellavista neighborhood for dinner. This area is known for its vibrant nightlife and great restaurants. Try some Chilean seafood or a traditional asado (barbecue).
• Night Stroll: After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the colorful streets of Bellavista, perhaps stopping for a drink at one of the many bars.

## Day 2: Wine and Nature

Morning:

• Drive to Maipo Valley: After breakfast, take a scenic drive to the Maipo Valley, famous for its vineyards. It’s about a 45-minute drive from Santiago.
• Wine Tour: Book a wine tour at one of the renowned wineries, like Concha y Toro or Santa Rita. Enjoy tastings and learn about the winemaking process.

Midday:

• Lunch at the Vineyard: Many wineries have lovely restaurants with stunning views. Enjoy a leisurely lunch paired with local wines.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Countryside: After lunch, take a drive through the picturesque countryside. You can stop at small towns like Pirque or even visit the beautiful Parque Mahuida for a hike or a picnic.

Evening:

• Return to Santiago: Head back to the city and freshen up.
• Dinner in Providencia: Explore the Providencia neighborhood for dinner. There are plenty of options, from casual eateries to upscale dining. Try a paila marina (seafood stew) for a taste of the coast.

## Day 3: Coastal Adventure

Morning:

• Drive to Valparaíso: After breakfast, set off for Valparaíso, a colorful coastal city about 1.5 hours from Santiago. The drive is scenic, so enjoy the views!
• Explore Valparaíso: Once you arrive, wander through the vibrant streets filled with street art. Don’t miss the famous funiculars and the historic quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Midday:

• Lunch by the Sea: Grab lunch at a seaside restaurant. Try the local dish chorrillana (a plate of fries topped with beef, onions, and eggs) or fresh seafood.

Afternoon:

• Visit Viña del Mar: Just a short drive from Valparaíso, Viña del Mar is known for its beautiful beaches and gardens. Spend some time relaxing on the beach or visiting the famous Flower Clock.

Evening:

• Return to Santiago: Head back to Santiago in the late afternoon.
• Farewell Dinner: For your last night, treat yourself to a nice dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the city skyline. Enjoy a glass of Chilean wine and reflect on your amazing trip!

Tips:

• Driving: Santiago has good roads, but be mindful of traffic, especially during rush hours.
• Parking: Look for parking options in the neighborhoods you visit, as street parking can be tricky.
• Safety: Like any big city, keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.

Enjoy your adventure in Santiago! It’s a city that beautifully blends culture, nature, and gastronomy. Safe travels! 🌎✨