15 day itinerary for Santiago Del Cile

Itinerary

Santiago, Chile, is a vibrant city with a rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious food. With 15 days to explore, you’ll have plenty of time to soak it all in without breaking the bank. Here’s a fun and budget-friendly itinerary for you and your travel buddy!

## Day 1: Arrival in Santiago

• Morning: Fly from Milan to Santiago. Depending on your flight, you might arrive in the morning or afternoon.
• Afternoon: Check into a budget-friendly hostel or guesthouse in the Bellavista or Lastarria neighborhoods. These areas are lively and have plenty of affordable dining options.
• Evening: Stroll around the Plaza de Armas and grab a cheap dinner at a local eatery. Try a “completo” (Chilean hot dog) for a true local experience!

## Day 2: Explore Santiago

• Morning: Visit Cerro San Cristóbal. You can hike up for free or take the funicular (around 3,000 CLP). Enjoy panoramic views of the city.
• Afternoon: Head to the Bellavista neighborhood for lunch. Check out La Chascona, one of Pablo Neruda’s homes (entrance fee around 3,500 CLP).
• Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner at a local pizzeria.

## Day 3: Cultural Day

• Morning: Visit the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (free entry) and explore the surrounding Parque Forestal.
• Afternoon: Walk to the nearby Mercado Central for lunch. Try some fresh seafood at one of the stalls.
• Evening: Check out a local bar for some live music. Many places have no cover charge!

## Day 4: Day Trip to Valparaíso

• Morning: Take a bus to Valparaíso (around 8,000 CLP each way). The journey takes about 1.5 hours.
• Afternoon: Explore the colorful streets, street art, and take the funiculars. Don’t miss the famous La Sebastiana, another Neruda house (entrance fee around 3,500 CLP).
• Evening: Return to Santiago and grab a late dinner at a food truck or street vendor.

## Day 5: Wine Tasting in Maipo Valley

• Morning: Take a bus to Maipo Valley (around 5,000 CLP). Visit a couple of wineries that offer free or low-cost tastings.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the vineyards (bring your own snacks).
• Evening: Return to Santiago and have a light dinner at a local market.

## Day 6: Explore More of Santiago

• Morning: Visit the Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos (free entry) to learn about Chile’s history.
• Afternoon: Walk through the Parque Quinta Normal and visit the nearby Museo Ferroviario (small entrance fee).
• Evening: Dinner at a local empanada shop.

## Day 7: Chill Day

• Morning: Sleep in and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a café.
• Afternoon: Visit the Parque Bicentenario for a relaxing afternoon. Bring a book or have a picnic.
• Evening: Try a local food market for dinner.

## Day 8: Travel to Atacama Desert

• Morning: Take a bus to San Pedro de Atacama (around 20,000 CLP, 24-hour journey). Bring snacks for the road!
• Evening: Arrive in San Pedro, check into a budget hostel, and rest.

## Day 9: Explore Atacama

• Morning: Visit the Valle de la Luna (entrance fee around 3,000 CLP).
• Afternoon: Explore the town of San Pedro and its local markets.
• Evening: Enjoy stargazing; the Atacama Desert is one of the best places in the world for it!

## Day 10: Geysers and Hot Springs

• Morning: Take a tour to El Tatio Geysers (around 15,000 CLP). It’s an early start, but worth it!
• Afternoon: Relax in the nearby hot springs (entrance fee around 5,000 CLP).
• Evening: Return to San Pedro and have dinner at a local restaurant.

## Day 11: Salt Flats and Lagoons

• Morning: Join a tour to the Salar de Atacama and the Altiplanic Lagoons (around 25,000 CLP).
• Afternoon: Enjoy the stunning landscapes and take lots of photos!
• Evening: Return to San Pedro and have a casual dinner.

## Day 12: Return to Santiago

• Morning: Take a bus back to Santiago (around 20,000 CLP).
• Afternoon: Check back into your accommodation and relax.
• Evening: Explore the Lastarria neighborhood for dinner and maybe catch a movie at a local cinema.

## Day 13: Day Trip to Cajón del Maipo

• Morning: Take a bus to Cajón del Maipo (around 3,000 CLP). Enjoy the beautiful scenery.
• Afternoon: Hike in the area or relax by the river. Bring a packed lunch!
• Evening: Return to Santiago and have dinner at a local food stall.

## Day 14: Last Day in Santiago

• Morning: Visit the Central Market for breakfast and some last-minute shopping.
• Afternoon: Explore any areas you may have missed or revisit your favorite spots.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice but affordable restaurant.

## Day 15: Departure

• Morning: Pack up and check out. Depending on your flight time, you might have a few hours to explore or grab some last-minute souvenirs.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your flight back to Milan.

Transportation Tips:

• Use public transport (Metro and buses) to get around Santiago; it’s affordable and efficient.
• For longer trips (like to Valparaíso and Atacama), book your bus tickets in advance online for the best prices.

Budget Tips:

• Eat at local markets and street vendors for delicious and cheap meals.
• Look for free walking tours in Santiago to learn more about the city without spending much.

Enjoy your adventure in Santiago! It’s a city full of life, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Safe travels! 🌍✈️