9 Things to Do in Santiago Chile in a Day (includes Best Day Trips)

What are the top things to do in Santiago, Chile? Honestly, not that many. If you only have one day in Santiago, take a few hours to look around downtown Santiago (like San Cristobal Hill and Plaza de Armas) and then head out for a few day trips—Valparaiso and Isla Negra are just an hour’s drive away.

I’m serious, you can realistically see the best attractions in Santiago in a morning, while some of my favorite spots in Santiago are just a short drive away and shouldn’t be missed. They are located basically in two directions: coastal towns to the west and otherworldly landscapes to the east of Santiago. A day in Santiago will be plenty of time to see the best of them.

In this article, I’ll guide you through the 9 top things to do in Santiago and (including 4 very worthwhile day trips), complete with practical travel info and my insider tips on how best to visit Santiago. I’ll also share one over-hyped attraction you should skip to save your precious time.
 

Do not hesitate to visit Santiago!
 

What are the top things to do in Santiago Chile, and day trips I shouldn’t miss?

 

1. San Cristóbal Hill for views of Santiago
2. Bellavista Neighborhood and La Chascona (Pablo Neruda’s house)
3. National Museum of Fine Arts
4. Museum of National History of Chile
5. Santiago Metropolitan Cathedral
6. Isla Negra and Pablo Neruda’s House (day trip)
7. San Francisco Glacier Hike (day trip)
8. Maipo Canyon (El Cajón del Maipo) (day trip)
9. Valparaíso (day trip)

 

 

How many days in Santiago is enough?

If you’re only staying in Santiago itself, you’ll need just half a day to check out the city center. With shorter day trips added, one entire day in Santiago should still be enough. Stretch it to two days if you have extra vacation time to spare—because trust me, Chile is packed with incredible experiences, and you don’t want to spend too much of it lingering in the metropolis.

Best Santiago Chile hotels:

• Hotel Magnolia: 4-star hotel in historic mansion with a modern twist
• The Singular Santiago: 5-star accommodation with faultless service and a pool

 

One day in Santiago Chile is enough to see the main sights (and even some places outside the city)
 

One day in Santiago Chile—sample itinerary

This is the perfect trip plan for one day in Santiago. I explain each spot in detail below, but here’s the overview of how to make the most of your day in my opinion:

Morning: Explore Santiago (spend 3–4 hours)

• Start your day at San Cristóbal Hill—Start by taking the cable car up for incredible views of the city, check out the Virgin Mary statue and the surrounding park.
   
• Visit Bellavista Neighborhood and La Chascona—Next, walk through this artsy district, and tour Pablo Neruda’s colorful former residence.
   
• Choose between two museums:
  • Museum of National History of Chile—This museum is great if you want to learn about Chile’s history. Don’t miss the clock tower for more great views.
  • National Museum of Fine Arts—Admire the art!
     
• Go to the Metropolitan Cathedral—Bonus points if you also explore the crypt.
   

Afternoon: Drive to Isla Negra (drive 1.5 hours, spend 1.5 hours)

• Tour Pablo Neruda’s eclectic seaside house. This was a highlight for me, so no skipping it! Besides the house, also take in the ocean views.
   

Evening: Head to Valparaíso (drive 1 hour, spend 1.5 to 2.5 hours)

• Wander through the colorful streets, enjoy the street art, and hop on the funicular, check out Plaza Sotomayor.
   
• Optional: Have dinner in Valparaíso before driving back to Santiago (1.5 hours), completing your round trip from the capital. 

 

San Cristóbal Hill

 

Two days in Santiago Chile—sample itinerary

If you have an extra day, or want to expand beyond one day in Santiago, here’s a great plan for 2 days in Santiago Chile, that includes both city highlights and outdoor adventures:

Day 1: Santiago, Isla Negra, and Valparaíso
Follow the same schedule as the one-day itinerary.

Day 2: San Francisco Glacier Hike and Maipo Valley
Morning: Hike to San Francisco Glacier (5–7 hours)

• Start early (7–8 am) to enjoy cooler temperatures and beautiful morning light.
   
• Hike along a well-marked trail to Laguna Morales and the glacier viewpoint.
   

Afternoon: Explore Maipo Valley (2–3 hours)

• After the hike, drive back through Maipo Valley. Relax at a scenic spot, take photos, or enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant.
   

Evening:

• Drive back to Santiago (2 hours) to conclude your two-day adventure and enjoy a scenic round trip through Chile's stunning landscapes.
   

Now let’s take a look at each spot in detail:
 

Santiago Chile map

Spending a day or two in Santiago Chile will include attractions inside the city as well as some day trips from Santiago

 

1.  Visit San Cristóbal Hill (Cerro San Cristóbal) for the best views of Santiago

San Cristóbal Hill

 

San Cristóbal Hill (Cerro San Cristobal) towers 300 m (985 ft) above the rest of the capital city and it’s a part of the Metropolitan Park in Santiago. If nothing else, this is one thing you need to do in Santiago Chile. It offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the Andes Mountains in the background.

You can either take a 45-minute walk up the hill or take the 15-minute cable car. You know, I always encourage people to walk, but the cable car trip is exciting too.

The cable car station is to be found on the north end of Pío Nono Street, behind the Santiago Zoo. It will take you to the statue of the Virgin Mary on top, then you’re free to explore the park on your own.
 

Early in the morning, the views from San Cristóbal Hill are the clearest

 

Tip: If possible, head to the hill early in the morning. Santiago has quite a smog problem and in the morning, the view is clearest. 
 

• Tuesday to Sunday: 10 am–7:45 pm
• Mondays: Closed (except for the first Monday of each month, when it operates from 1 pm–7:45 pm)
• Price: USD 8

 

2.  Walk through Bellavista neighborhood and La Chascona, Pablo Neruda’s colorful house

Colorful Barrio Bellavista
 

Cross the river near Plaza Baquedano and admire the colorful Bellavista district (Barrio Bellavista). It’s an artsy neighborhood full of hipster cafés, bars, bistros, and souvenir shops. When I walked the streets, it reminded me of the Bo-Kaap district in South Africa’s Cape Town—colorful houses tucked under the hill with a colonial atmosphere; so similar and yet so different.  

When walking through Bellavista, make sure to check out La Chascona, the former residence of Chile’s beloved poet Pablo Neruda. This avant-garde house contains some personal artifacts of the Nobel-winning writer as well as some of his books. Not bad, but if you’re interested in Neruda, I have something better in store for you. See my Isla Negra day trip below—it was honestly my favorite thing to do in Santiago even if it’s not in the city.
 

• Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 10 am–6 pm (7 pm in January and February), closed on Mondays
• Tickets: CLP 9,500 (USD 9.50)
• Audio guides are included with admission, available in Spanish, English, Portuguese, French, German, and Italian.

 

3.  Admire the National Museum of Fine Arts

Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes

 

For any art enthusiast, the National Museum of Fine Arts (Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes) is a must. It’s about a 10-minute walk from the Plaza de Armas. Plus, it’s on your way to San Cristobal Hill and it’s free!   

The colossal 1910 building houses mostly contemporary art from Chilean and international artists. The exhibition is rather eclectic, and all descriptions are in Spanish, but the building itself is very photogenic. A great addition to a DIY walking tour of central Santiago.

• Opening hours: 10 am–6:30 pm (closed on Mondays)
• Free admission

 

4.  Educate yourself at the National History Museum of Chile

Time for dinosaurs!

 

The National History Museum of Chile (Museo Historico Nacional) is a 19^th-century royal palace turned into a museum of Chilean history and culture. It’s right next to the central post office and cathedral on Santiago’s Plaza de Armas.

The museum is not big and it’s not even outstanding, but it’s a solid stop on your journey through Santiago, and a great introduction for the beginning of your Chile trip.

Pro tip: Climb the clock tower for a stunning panoramic view of the Plaza de Armas and the surrounding area.

The museum features 18 exhibit rooms that take you on a chronological journey through Chile’s history, from the pre-Columbian era to the 20^th century. Highlights include artifacts from the indigenous Mapuche culture, colonial-era furniture, military memorabilia, and even the desk where Bernardo O’Higgins, one of Chile’s founding fathers, signed key documents. The museum’s star attraction is the country’s first national flag, raised after Chile’s independence in 1818.

Don’t expect any guides or leaflets in English. In Chile, you need to rely on your poor knowledge of Spanish, or a translator app.

On the other hand, admission is free. 
 

• Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10 am–5:30 pm
• Free admission 

 

5.  Take a look around Santiago Metropolitan Cathedral

Metropolitan Cathedral
 

The Metropolitan Cathedral, a stunning neo-classical masterpiece, stands tall on Santiago’s main square, Plaza de Armas, surrounded by a modern jungle of skyscrapers.

Step inside to admire the exquisite Baroque-style altars, detailed wood carvings, and impressive religious art. Don’t miss the richly decorated high altar, a true centerpiece of this historical gem. The pipe organ is one of the oldest in South America. Beneath the cathedral lies the crypt, which houses the remains of several archbishops and notable figures in Chilean history.

The cathedral’s construction began around 1600, shortly after the Spanish Conquista in the 1500s. However, frequent earthquakes delayed its completion until the late 19^th century, when the final touches adorned the interior with intricate decorations.

Fun fact: It’s often called the “darkest cathedral in the world” due to its dimly lit interior—see for yourself and decide if the title fits!

 

Metropolitan Cathedral

 

• Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 9:30 am–7:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 am–2:00 pm
• Admission is free, but donations are welcome 

 

Day trips from Santiago Chile: sightseeing outside the city

6.  Explore Isla Negra, Pablo Neruda's coastal masterpiece in South America

The most beautiful house in Isla Negra. Pablo Neruda’s house 

 

Moving on from downtown Santiago (because that's really all you need to see there), the best day trip from Santiago (my personal favorite!) is Isla Negra, a top experience for Pablo Neruda lovers and one of the highlights of any Chile itinerary.

Isla Negra is a coastal town around 110 km (70 mi) west of Santiago de Chile. It’s most famous for two things: great wine and Pablo Neruda. The wine part aside, I consider Neruda’s house to be one of the best places to visit in Chile. It’s fun to take a little walking tour and get to know the man a little better.

The poet’s house/museum La Casa de Isla Negra is an eclectic representation of the poet’s great mind. Honestly, I was amazed. It’s located in the most romantic location possible, with a view of the ocean beating against the rocks on the shore. I bet even I would find poetic inspiration at this place!

 

I thoroughly enjoyed the visit of Neruda’s House... I decided this type of scenery would suit me well in my retirement 

Isla Negra’s coastal scenery

 

The house itself represents the two things Neruda loved deeply: seamanship and trains. So, one part of the house resembles a lighthouse, and the other part a train car. 

Both are filled with various artifacts from his life.  On top of that, every single thing inside the house or on the porch carries its own story. Like a bell linked to Neruda’s friends, or a log washed up by the ocean, which he found on his afternoon walk. 

I was so excited about this place, I can picture myself living at a similar place for my retirement, just watching the ocean, taking walks on the coast, and making the most out of every day.

 La Casa de Isla Negra is, by all means, the number 1 day trip from Santiago.
 

• Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 10 am–6 pm (7 pm in January and February), closed Mondays
• Tickets: CLP 9,500 (USD 9.50)

 

7.  Hike to San Francisco Glacier 

Towards the Andes Mountains! @ San Francisco Glacier hike in Chile

 

• Difficulty: Medium 
• Distance: 15 km (9.4 mi)  
• Elevation gain: 699 m (2,293 ft)  
• Time: 5 hours 
   

The hike to San Francisco Glacier was simply amazing. Starting from the parking lot in Baños Morales, the well-maintained and clearly marked trail leads you through the stunning Andean landscape to the Laguna Morales, near the base of the glacier.

The trail is moderate; the initial section is steep, but it levels out, making it manageable for hikers in good physical condition. The trail offers little shade, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The trail culminates at a viewpoint offering breathtaking views of the San Francisco glacier and the imposing Cerro El Morado.
 

Pro tips:

• During winter months, access beyond the lagoon may be restricted due to safety concerns.
• The fee for foreign adults is CLP 5,000 (about USD 5).
• There are restrooms near the trailhead. However, there are no services along the trail, so come prepared.
• Keep an eye out for wildflowers and native fauna, including wild ducks near the lagoon. 

 

 

8.  Trek in Maipo Canyon

El Cajón del Maipo
 

One of the day trips I took from Santiago was to Maipo Canyon (El Cajón del Maipo). If you want to see the most awe-inspiring views around Santiago, this place is it! Even though it’s technically in Argentina, you can see Aconcagua Mountain from the canyon trail. 

Fun fact: At 6,959 meters (22,831 feet), Aconcagua is the tallest mountain in the Americas and the highest peak outside of Asia. If not for the towering giants of the Himalayas, it would claim the title of the highest mountain in the world!

Besides Aconcagua, there are many other 6K mountains, which makes this place ideal for hikes, climbing and just being totally stunned by the incredible mountain scenery. It was the first time that I saw such huge mountains face to face, and I was flabbergasted! Imagine driving along the road at an altitude around 2,000 m (6,560 ft) and seeing a 4,000 m (13,123 ft) wall rising before you. WOW! 
 

A quick snack and we're moving on

 

Storytime—how I survived a cold in Chile

The first four days of my Chile trip, I was down with a cold (thanks to the extreme air-conditioning in the Air France lounge!). But hey, I couldn’t miss Maipo Canyon!

So, it was time for me to try out the Chilean pharmacy supply. I was surprised I managed to express myself in Spanish, but eventually, I got some pills to ease my suffering. I’m sure they wouldn’t even be legal in Europe, but what the heck—they were pure magic! One moment, I felt like I was dying; then I took the pill, and I was as strong as an ox... until the meds wore off, and it was time for another magic pill.

The moral of the story is: don’t worry about catching a cold on your Chile trip. They’ve got you covered.

 

9.  Stroll around Valparaíso, the artistic city on the shores of the Pacific Ocean

Street art in Valparaíso

 

Valparaíso is about a 1.5-hour drive west of Santiago, Chile, on the Pacific coast. It’s a lively, colorful city famous for its incredible street art and vibrant hillside homes in every shade of the rainbow.

Fun fact: Valparaíso is one of the oldest cities in South America!

The city's steep hills are connected by historic funiculars—small cable railways that transport people up and down the slopes, making it easier to navigate the city’s terrain.

…But that’s about it. Valparaíso offers lovely scenery, it’s nice to stroll the streets and fun to ride the funiculars, but don’t look for anything that interesting there. 

 

All the colors of Valparaíso

 

That said, it’s easy to add Valparaíso at the end of your itinerary for one day in Santiago itinerary. And it’s not a popular day trip for nothing. Check out these spots in Valparaíso:
 

• Plaza Sotomayor: the main square
   
• Ascensor El Peral: one of the many funiculars with great vistas
   
• Murales de Valpo: the most famous murals in Valparaíso
   
• Tour del Graffiti Valparaíso: take a free tour to discover more about the various neighborhoods and the culture of street art
   
• Escalera de Colores: the famous colorful stairs
   
• Piano Staircase: yet another of Valparaíso signature stairs
   
• Ascensor Reina Victoria: more views from the cliffs, anyone?
   
• Museo a Cielo Abierto: district with the oldest street art, not in perfect state, but worth seeing
   
• La Sebastiana Museo de Pablo Neruda: the birth house of Chile’s most beloved writer 

 

You can see the highlights of Valparaíso on this map

 

Skip Viña del Mar—It’s not worth your time

And finally, a little warning: Viña del Mar resort is mentioned in all the Santiago travel blogs but I found it very underwhelming and not worth your precious travel time.

At first, I was like “ok, vineyards, Pacific coast...that sounds great.” But, no, it’s not. It’s a great concrete jungle with pseudo-rich Chileans’ residences, and that’s all. Literally nothing worth going there; you can taste the great wine elsewhere.

Not that I enjoy badmouthing a place, but you can sleep soundly knowing you saved your time for better experiences. Exploring Pucon in the Lake District, for example.

 

Where to next?

The perfect Chile itinerary will have you head up to the Atacama Desert next, before you make your way down to the Lake District and Patagonia. Oh, and if you have 3 weeks in Chile, you’ll even be able to fit in Easter Island! A once-in-a-lifetime destination!

 

And those were the cool things you can do in Santiago, the capital of Chile

 

Fun Facts About Santiago, Chile

• Chile’s capital and biggest city: Santiago is the heart of Chile and its largest city, roughly in the middle of the country.
   
• A crowded place: About 6.5 million people live here—that’s one-third of Chile’s entire population!
   
• Mountain views for days: Santiago sits at 500 m (1,640 ft) above sea level, surrounded by the Andes Mountains, which reach an average of 2,500 meters (8,200 feet). Few cities in Latin America will get you this level of drama.
   
• Close to everything: In just an hour, you can drive from Santiago to the Andes Mountains or the Pacific Ocean. Day trip, anyone?
   
• Sunny and warm: With a warm-summer Mediterranean climate, Santiago shares the same weather vibe as Los Angeles, Cape Town, or Perth, though its cultural energy is more comparable to cities like Rio de Janeiro or Buenos Aires.

 

Santiago de Chile gives L.A. vibes

 

• Your Chilean gateway: Santiago has Chile’s biggest international airport, so chances are, you’ll land here.

 

You might also be interested in reading:

• 3 Weeks in Chile: The Ultimate Travel Itinerary
• All You Need to Know About Traveling to Chile: 15 Tips and Tricks
• All You Need to Know About Climbing Villarrica in 4 Steps
• 8 Highlights from my Visit to Patagonia
• 20 Best Day Hikes in Chile of Various Difficulties

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