Private Half Day Santiago City Highlights Tour

Santiago , Chile

Private Half Day Santiago City Highlights Tour

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(10 reviews)

3h - 4h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This private half-day city tour is the perfect introduction to Santiago, a city that blends history, modernity, and vibrant local life.

Travel in comfort with your private driver and explore at your own pace while your professional bilingual guide shares the stories, architecture, and hidden gems that make Chile’s capital so fascinating.

You’ll visit Santiago’s main highlights — from the historic center and La Moneda Palace to San Cristóbal Hill, Lastarria, and the modern financial district — discovering both the city’s traditional roots and its cosmopolitan energy.

With flexible stops, personalized service, and two dedicated professionals ensuring a seamless experience, this tour offers the perfect balance between culture, comfort, and authenticity in just a few hours.

Available options

Private Half Day Santiago City Highlights Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Bottled water

Professional guide

Transport by private vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Your experience begins with private pickup from your hotel in Santiago, where you’ll meet your bilingual guide and start exploring the capital of Chile in comfort and style.

Stop 2

Visit La Moneda, Chile’s presidential palace and one of the most important political landmarks in the country. Your guide will share stories about its neoclassical architecture, its history, and its role in Chile’s modern democracy.

Stop 3

Explore Plaza de Armas, the historical heart of Santiago. Surrounded by the Cathedral, the City Hall, and the National History Museum, this square is the perfect spot to understand the city’s origins and vibrant local life.

Stop 4 Pass by

we drive passing onlyno stop close to the lively Mercado Central, one of the most traditional places in Santiago. Famous for its seafood and local products, it’s a great spot to take photos and feel the energy of daily life. If you wish, you can stay for lunch at one of the restaurants (meal not included).

Stop 5

Enjoy a scenic ride up Cerro San Cristóbal, the highest point in Santiago, aboard the funicular. From the top, you’ll admire breathtaking panoramic views of the city framed by the Andes Mountains — a must-see moment.

Stop 6 Pass by

Continue through Santiago’s modern financial district, often called Sanhattan. See the Costanera Center, the tallest skyscraper in Latin America, and observe how the city blends tradition and modernity.

Stop 7 Pass by

Drive along Parque Forestal, a green oasis inspired by European design. This historic park connects the old and modern parts of the city and is surrounded by cultural landmarks such as the Fine Arts Museum.

Stop 8 Pass by

Visit Barrio Lastarria, Santiago’s bohemian and cultural quarter. Full of cafés, boutique shops, and street art, it’s the perfect place to experience the city’s creative and artistic atmosphere.

Stop 9 Pass by

End your city exploration in Barrio Bellavista, known for its colorful murals, nightlife, and artistic vibe. This is where locals and visitors meet to enjoy food, music, and culture in a lively setting.

What's not included

Gratuities

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.1

9 reviews

5★

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Tripadvisor 4.0

1 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

May be operated by a multi-lingual guide

Important notes

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.

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