Private Tour: Half-Day Santiago Discovery
Active
5h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Join this private 5-hour tour of Santiago takes you to explore the main attractions of the city, including a sociocultural look at downtown Santiago. See the governmental palace and Constitution Square linked to the years of the military coup. Visit the historic Plaza de Armas main square, where you're guide will explain the history and its significance. Explore the Central Market featuring various seafood and visit the Fine Arts Museum featuring a permanent exhibition of Chilean art. Take the cable car to San Cristobal hill and enjoy panoramic views. Hotel pickup and drop-off is included. Choose from a morning or afternoon departure.
Available options
Airport + Cruise Port Pick up
Santiago Half Day Discovery Tour including Santiago Airport Pick up and San Antonio Cruise Port Drop off or vice versa.<br/>Pickup included
Half Day Santiago Discovery
Pickup included
Tour with Cruise Port Pick up
Private Santiago Half Day Discovery Tour with San Antonio Cruise Port Pick up OR Drop off ( San Antonio is 1 hour 30 minutes drive away approx. from Santiago)<br/>Pickup included
Tour with Airport Pick up
Santiago Half Day Discovery Tour with Santiago Airport Pick up OR Drop off<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Photos (Optional - digital images to be sent post-tour via email or WhatsApp, depending on preference)
Private bilingual English/Spanish-speaking guide
Cable car to San Cristobal Hill, depending on accessibility
Transport by private vehicle
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
After meeting your guide at your hotel, the first stop of the day takes you to see the Presidential Palace La Moneda and Constitution Square where you will get an introduction to this important place and the years of dictatorship as well as the current situation in Chile
2
Stop 2
Constitution Square
3
Stop 3
Starting from this point the tour includes a walk in the commercial city center; the best way to get in touch with the local life, where we explore the lively streets, local markets and monuments. You will explore the history, culture and the Chilean way of life!
4
Stop 4
We start our walk by passing the “Wall Street” - Calle Nueva York, and the commercial center of the city until arriving in the main square: Plaza de Armas. Here we give you an introduction to the history of Santiago, as well as visit the Santiago Cathedral, and observe the Mapuche monument as well as street artists - and paintings
5
Santiago City Hall
6
Stop 6
Metropolitan Cathedral
7
Stop 7
We continue next towards Santiago Fish Market - Central Market, where we can see local vendors selling the fresh seafood of the Chilean Pacific
8
After the visit, we cross over the Mapocho River to enjoy a local fruit and vegetable market: Tirso de Molina.
9
Stop 9
Our next visit takes us to see the vivid Lastarria street offering us a nice atmosphere, local art and culture as well as selection of fine restaurants and bars
10
Stop 10
You will now get a chance for a brief visit to Bellas Artes / Fine Arts Museum
11
Stop 11
La Chascona - Pablo Neruda's House
12
Stop 12
Next, continue the tour to the cultural and bohemian neighborhood Bellavista offering colorful murals and street art
13
Patio Bellavista
14
Hop on the cable car taking us to the San Cristobal hill top
15
Stop 15
San Cristobal Hill
16
Visit the Sanctuary in the San Cristobal Hill and see the landmark of Santiago: the Virgin Mary state
17
Stop 17
Next, we will drive along the Metropolitan Park offering us great views over the city and the Andes
18
Next, stop to see the Bicentennial Park and enjoy the nice lagoons and flamengos
19
On our way back to your hotel, we will drive past the modern part of the city Vitacura holding the financial district "Sanhattan" where you can observe the tallest building in South America: Costanera
20
Stop 20
Pass by
Vitacura
What's not included
Gratuities
Food or drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
PT
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
97 reviews
5★
91
4★
3
3★
1
2★
0
1★
2
Tripadvisor
5.0
148 reviews
5★
144
4★
3
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
Wheelchair accessible. Please advise local operator no later than 48 hours in advance
Total walking distance will be approximately 0.62 - 1.86 miles (1 - 3 kilometers), depending on passenger's preferences
Fine Arts Museum closed on Mondays; therefore alternate site(s) or outside view only may be substituted
Minimum drinking age is 18
Infant seats are not available
Important notes
• Minimum drinking age is 18
• Guide may take photos at your request on company camera. Digital format photos will be either emailed or sent to you via WhatsApp, depending on your preference after the completion of tour.
• Fine Arts Museum closed on Mondays; therefore alternate site(s) or outside view only may be substituted at local operator's discretion
About Santiago
Santiago is the vibrant capital of Chile, nestled between the Andes and the Chilean Coast Range. Known for its rich history, modern culture, and stunning natural surroundings, it offers a unique blend of urban life and outdoor adventure. The city is a gateway to both the Pacific coast and the Andes Mountains, making it an ideal destination for diverse experiences.
Top Attractions
Plaza de Armas
The heart of Santiago, this historic square is surrounded by significant buildings including the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National History Museum.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (museums may charge entry fees)
San Cristobal Hill
A prominent landmark offering panoramic views of the city and the Andes. The hill is home to a statue of the Virgin Mary and a funicular railway.
Nature
2-3 hours
Free (funicular ride costs around CLP 2,000 or USD 2.50)
La Moneda Palace
The official seat of the President of Chile, this neoclassical palace is a symbol of the country's political history.
Historical
1 hour
Free
Barrio Lastarria
A charming neighborhood known for its boutiques, art galleries, and vibrant cultural scene. It's a great place for dining and exploring.
Cultural
Half-day
Free to explore (shopping and dining costs vary)
Sky Costanera
The tallest building in South America, offering a breathtaking observation deck with panoramic views of the city and the Andes.
Adventure
1-2 hours
CLP 12,000 (USD 15) for adults, CLP 6,000 (USD 7.50) for children
Must-Try Local Dishes
Completo
A Chilean-style hot dog topped with avocado, tomatoes, and mayonnaise. It's a popular street food and a must-try for any visitor.
Snack
Vegetarian options available (without meat)
Empanadas de Pino
A type of empanada filled with a mixture of ground beef, onions, raisins, olives, and hard-boiled eggs. It's a staple of Chilean cuisine and can be found in bakeries and restaurants throughout the country.
Snack/Dinner
Contains meat and allergens
Pastel de Choclo
A savory pie made with ground corn, chicken, beef, olives, and hard-boiled eggs. It's a traditional dish often served as a main course.
Dinner
Contains meat and allergens
Cazuela
A hearty stew made with beef, pumpkin, potatoes, and corn. It's a comforting and filling dish, often served with rice or bread.
Dinner
Contains meat and allergens
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Andes
Rafting in the Cajón del Maipo
Beach day in Viña del Mar or Reñaca
Wine tasting in the Maipo Valley
Exploring the historic quarter of Valparaíso
Visiting museums and cultural centers in Santiago
Surfing in Reñaca
Kayaking in the Cajón del Maipo
Best Time to Visit
November to March (Summer)
This is the best time to visit Santiago for outdoor activities and exploring the city. The weather is warm and dry, perfect for hiking, wine tours, and enjoying the city's vibrant nightlife.
20°C to 32°C (68°F to 90°F)
68°F to 90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas and by younger generations)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Chilean Peso (CLP)
Time Zone
CLT (Chile Standard Time, GMT-4)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas
Santiago is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. Be cautious and take common-sense precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation
- • Use official taxis or app-based services, and avoid unlicensed taxis
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash
Getting there
By air
- Comodoro Arturo Benitez International Airport • 17 km (10.5 miles) northwest of downtown
By bus
Terminal Alameda, Terminal Sur
Getting around
Public transport
The metro system is efficient, clean, and easy to use. It's the fastest way to get around the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bolt, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Barrio Lastarria
Bellavista
Providencia
El Golf
Barrio Brasil
Day trips
Valparaíso
120 km (75 miles) west of Santiago • Full day
A vibrant port city known for its colorful houses, historic funiculars, and bohemian atmosphere. Valparaíso is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular day trip from Santiago.
Vina del Mar and Reñaca
125 km (78 miles) west of Santiago • Full day
Two popular beach towns offering beautiful sandy beaches, resorts, and a variety of water sports. These towns are a great escape from the city, especially during the summer months.
Cajón del Maipo
50 km (31 miles) southeast of Santiago • Full day or overnight
A stunning valley surrounded by the Andes Mountains, offering breathtaking landscapes, hiking trails, and outdoor activities. It's a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Festivals
Fiestas Patrias • September 18-19
Santiago a Mil • January
Viña del Mar International Song Festival • February
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Use the metro and public transportation to get around the city, as they are efficient, affordable, and widely available
- Explore the city's many neighborhoods, each offering a unique atmosphere and attractions
- Visit the city's markets, such as Mercado Central, for a taste of local culture and cuisine
- Take a day trip to nearby destinations, such as Valparaíso, Viña del Mar, or the Cajón del Maipo, to experience the diversity and beauty of Chile
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
