Be enchanted by Santiago and discover the charm of Valparaíso
Updated on 5 de January, 2026
From the mountains to the sea: central culture and landscapes
4 DíAS
Santiago and Valparaíso offer the perfect blend of urban sophistication and bohemian charm. From the majesty of the Andes Mountains in Valle Nevado to the colorful hills and Neruda’s poetry overlooking the sea. Spend four days discovering colonial history, coastal gastronomy, and the world-class street art of the Chilean central zone. A journey from peak to Pacific.
DISTANCE
340 km (211mi)
DAYS
4 días
DESTINATIONS
LANDSCAPES
Inicio del itinerario
Attractions included on this day
Day 1
Historic Santiago: Between Tradition and Modernity
Santiago perfectly combines tradition and modernity. Start downtown by visiting the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, and its surroundings. Next, you can visit the La Moneda Presidential palace, its underground Cultural Center, and to finish, walk up the Santa Lucia hill, a beautiful green oasis in the middle of the city’s center. This tour will allow you to learn about the history of Chile and enjoy spectacular views of Santiago.
Attractions included on this day
Day 1
Historic Santiago: Between Tradition and Modernity
Santiago perfectly combines tradition and modernity. Start downtown by visiting the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, and its surroundings. Next, you can visit the La Moneda Presidential palace, its underground Cultural Center, and to finish, walk up the Santa Lucia hill, a beautiful green oasis in the middle of the city’s center. This tour will allow you to learn about the history of Chile and enjoy spectacular views of Santiago.
Attractions included on this day
Day 2
The Andes: Adrenaline and Views at Valle Nevado
If you go to Santiago in the spring, you can still enjoy snow on the mountains. The Valle Nevado ski resort is one of the best-known and largest ski centers in South America and it is only 46 km (28 miles) away from the city. With as many as 37 kilometers (23 miles) of slopes, this is an excellent destination for adrenaline lovers and those who want to spend a fun day in a totally different way.
Attractions included on this day
Day 2
The Andes: Adrenaline and Views at Valle Nevado
If you go to Santiago in the spring, you can still enjoy snow on the mountains. The Valle Nevado ski resort is one of the best-known and largest ski centers in South America and it is only 46 km (28 miles) away from the city. With as many as 37 kilometers (23 miles) of slopes, this is an excellent destination for adrenaline lovers and those who want to spend a fun day in a totally different way.
Attractions included on this day
Day 3
Bohemian Valparaíso: La Sebastiana and Sea Flavors
Just over an hour away from Santiago, Valparaiso is a must-see tourist destination. If you arrive to Valparaiso early, we recommend that you visit Pablo Neruda’s La Sebastiana house. It is shaped like a boat and has several floors where you can learn more about the life of this important Chilean poet. You will also enjoy tremendous views of the port city. Afterwards, you should visit one of the nearby hills to try the delicious local food.
Attractions included on this day
Day 3
Bohemian Valparaíso: La Sebastiana and Sea Flavors
Just over an hour away from Santiago, Valparaiso is a must-see tourist destination. If you arrive to Valparaiso early, we recommend that you visit Pablo Neruda’s La Sebastiana house. It is shaped like a boat and has several floors where you can learn more about the life of this important Chilean poet. You will also enjoy tremendous views of the port city. Afterwards, you should visit one of the nearby hills to try the delicious local food.
Attractions included on this day
Day 4
Alternative Culture: Panteón and Cárcel Hills
Valparaíso tiene varios cerros famosos y turísticos, sin embargo, hay dos que son menos visitados pero muy interesantes: los Cerros Panteón y Cárcel. En la parte alta puedes visitar la ex cárcel de Valparaíso y la Plaza Bismark que ofrece muy buenas vistas de la ciudad. Allí también puedes ver el mural del Centro de Salud y luego bajar hasta las escaleras del General Mackena, famosa y conocida en la ciudad.
Attractions included on this day
Day 4
Alternative Culture: Panteón and Cárcel Hills
Valparaíso tiene varios cerros famosos y turísticos, sin embargo, hay dos que son menos visitados pero muy interesantes: los Cerros Panteón y Cárcel. En la parte alta puedes visitar la ex cárcel de Valparaíso y la Plaza Bismark que ofrece muy buenas vistas de la ciudad. Allí también puedes ver el mural del Centro de Salud y luego bajar hasta las escaleras del General Mackena, famosa y conocida en la ciudad.
What you should know
How to get there by air
Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) is the main entry point. Located 20 km from downtown Santiago, it offers official taxis, transfer services (Vía Controlada), and buses (Centropuerto or Turbus) connecting to the Metro. It is the ideal starting point to move efficiently toward either the coast or the Andes mountain range.
How to get there by land
Santiago is Chile’s central hub. To reach Valparaíso (120 km), take frequent buses from Pajaritos or Alameda terminals; the trip takes 90 minutes via Route 68. For Valle Nevado, use the Farellones road. It is highly recommended to book a tour or private transport due to the steep mountain curves and lack of public transit to the summit.
Climate and clothing
Mediterranean climate. Spring and summer days are hot (25-30°C), but the sea breeze in Valparaíso and the altitude in Valle Nevado require a light jacket. Wear comfortable shoes for the steep hill stairs and use high-factor sunscreen for the mountain sun.
Must-Know Tips
Carry cash for Valparaíso’s elevators (funiculars) and small tips. Health insurance for foreigners is highly recommended. To visit La Sebastiana, book your tickets in advance on the official Neruda Foundation website. Don’t forget a reusable water bottle and a portable charger for your devices during these long, scenic walking tours across the cities.
