How to Spend 24 Hours in Santiago, Chile

Morning, Arrival in Santiago

Official Taxi vs. Uber

If you’re flying in, you’ll land at Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport, about 25 minutes from the city center. For a hassle-free arrival, I recommend taking an official airport taxi—you’ll find the stands just before exiting the terminal, after the “Goods to Declare” sign. The fare to the city center is around $30.

Uber is also an option, though technically illegal in Santiago. The app will prompt you to coordinate directly with your driver, who may ask you to meet them either on the first floor of the parking garage (across from arrivals) or on the third floor (departures level). Some drivers might even ask you to sit up front to avoid unwanted attention from authorities. Expect to pay between $17-$25 for an Uber from the airport.

Getting Around

Santiago is spread out, and while some neighborhoods are walkable, others are farther apart. We recommend you explore each area on foot, then hop into a taxi, Uber, or Cabify to reach your next destination. Public transportation is another solid option—both the metro and buses are reliable and safe. Just note that you’ll need a BIP card (the metro card), which you can buy with cash at any metro station.

Morning: Lastarria

Kick off your Santiago adventure in Lastarria, one of the city’s most charming and artsy neighborhoods. Wander down José Victorino Lastarria Street, where a daily street fair showcases local artists and vendors. If you love books, stop by Ulises Librería (though they only carry books in Spanish). Looking for coffee? Check out 3841 Coffee Roasters, Singular Coffee, or Café Público.

For lunch, Liguria is a solid choice, loved by both locals and tourists for its classic Chilean dishes and lively atmosphere.

Early Afternoon: Barrio Bellavista

After lunch, head over to Barrio Bellavista, Santiago’s colorful, bohemian neighborhood that transforms into the city’s nightlife hub after dark.

Start at La Chascona, the home of famed poet Pablo Neruda.

The house was nearly destroyed during the military coup, but Neruda’s wife restored it to preserve his legacy. A visit here offers a glimpse into the poet’s life and paints a picture of the drastic changes in the neighborhood.

Next, if you haven’t gotten lunch yet, grab a massive sandwich at Sangucheria Ciudad Vieja, then browse for quality crafts at Kumen, an artisan shop nearby.

From there, walk to the funicular at the base of Cerro San Cristóbal. The line can get long, but it moves fast, and the ride up is absolutely worth it. At the top, you’ll get a sweeping view of Santiago, plus a chance to visit the Virgen de la Inmaculada Concepción.

From the funicular, take a short walk to the cable car station and hop on for a stunning ride across the city, with the Andes Mountains as your backdrop.

Late Afternoon: Los Dominicos & Barrio Italia

After your cityscape views, make your way to Los Dominicos Craft Fair, a historic artisan market that still boasts around 25 stalls featuring handmade jewelry, weaving, pottery, and other one-of-a-kind crafts. It’s the perfect spot to pick up a unique souvenir.

Then, head over to Barrio Italia, one of Santiago’s most walkable and vibrant districts.

It’s packed with charming cafés, boutiques, and restaurants. If you need a coffee or a snack, I recommend Singular Coffee, Bemvindo, or La Popular Infante.

Evening: Vitacura & Nightlife

For dinner, head to Vitacura, Santiago’s upscale neighborhood known for its fantastic dining scene. If you’re looking for an elegant meal, check out La Mar (Peruvian seafood) or La Mesa (incredible wine selection, and a food menu that offers something for everyone).

When it comes to nightlife, you have options depending on what you’re looking for:

• Bellavista: If you’re up for a long night of bar hopping and clubbing, this is the place to be.

• Barrio Italia: For a more relaxed evening, grab drinks at Bar de René or Bar Cerros de Chena, or if you're in the mood for some live music, check out The Jazz Corner.

• Vitacura: Looking for a more upscale night out? You can find top-notch cocktails at Arca Bar, experience the circus-themed ambiance at Demencia, or head to Social—known for its lively, younger crowd and budget-friendly drinks.

• Ñuñoa: For a casual evening in a local neighborhood, bar hop through Plaza Ñuñoa. I recommend La Destilería, La Vinocracia, or Barbudo Beer Garden.

Next Morning: Breakfast & Goodbye

Before wrapping up your 24 hours in Santiago, grab breakfast at Café Montenegro or Café Naif.

Café Montenegro is a lively local spot in the midst of a quiet neighborhood and offers delicious and affordable breakfast options. Café Naif is one of the most charming cafes in the city. Enjoy a delectable cachapa – a Venezuelan corn pastry filled with cheese and/or meat, or opt for a sweet pastry instead as you relax on the cafe’s back patio surrounded by leafy trees. Whichever spot you choose, it's the perfect sendoff before heading to your next destination!