How to Plan a Trip to Santiago
The complete 2026 guide — flights, hotels, things to do and airport transfers, all in one place. Everything a first-time visitor to Chile needs.
Your 4-step Santiago plan
Step 1 — Book flights to SCL
Arturo Merino Benítez Airport (SCL) is the main gateway to Santiago. Compare fares across major airlines and OTAs before locking a date.
See flight deals to SCLStep 2 — Pick a neighborhood
Base yourself in Bellavista nightlife + La Chascona (Neruda house) for the best first-time visit — Bohemian district + the Pablo Neruda residence-turned-museum (CLP 9,000).
Where to stay in SantiagoStep 3 — Plan your itinerary
Start with Cerro Santa Lucía + Plaza de Armas, then build outward. Most first-time visitors need 3-5 days to see the highlights of Santiago.
Things to do in SantiagoStep 4 — Sort your airport transfer
Centropuerto bus (to Pajaritos metro) is CLP 2,200 (€2.20) and takes 20 min. Pre-book a private transfer for stress-free arrival.
SCL arrival guideBefore you book — visa check
Visa-free for most Western, EU, US, Canadian, Australian passports up to 90 days. Chile has no visa-free entry for some Asian + African countries — confirm before traveling.