Visit Santiago September-November (spring) or March-May (autumn). Skiing June-August. Fly into SCL. Stay Las Condes (modern) or Bellavista (bohemian). Tap water is safe.
At a Glance
| Country | Chile |
|---|---|
| Main airport | SCL |
| Currency | Chilean Peso (CLP) |
| Language | Spanish (some English) |
| Best time to visit | September–November, March–May |
| Visa for US citizens | US citizens need passport but no visa for 90 days. |
Top Things to Do in Santiago
- Cerro San Cristóbal (cable car + virgin statue)
- Plaza de Armas + Cathedral
- Mercado Central seafood lunch
- Bellavista + Pablo Neruda's house
- Day trip to Valparaíso (UNESCO)
- Day trip to Maipo Valley wineries
- Ski day at Valle Nevado (winter)
- Day trip to Cajón del Maipo Andes
- Museum of Memory and Human Rights
- Sky Costanera observation (tallest in S. America)
Best Neighborhoods to Stay In
- Las Condes / Vitacura — modern, business, luxury
- Providencia — central, hotels
- Bellavista — bohemian, nightlife
- Lastarria — boutique, walkable
- Bellas Artes — central, museums
- Barrio Italia — design district
Our recommendation: Las Condes for modern + business, Providencia for central, Lastarria/Bellas Artes for boutique walkable.
What to Eat
- Empanadas de pino
- Pastel de choclo (corn pie)
- Cazuela (stew)
- Completo (Chilean hot dog)
- Curanto (seafood stew)
- Mote con huesillos (peach drink)
- Pisco sour cocktail
- Carmenere wine
How to Get Around
Metro (7 lines, world-class) + buses (Transantiago). Bip! card. Walking + Uber. Don't drive — congestion + smog days.
How to Get There from the USA
Main airport: SCL.
👉 See our Miami flight page.
👉 Call +1 (833) 546-3547 for live agent quotes.
👉 Or set a price watch and get an email when we see a matching fare.
Visa & Entry Requirements (US Citizens)
US citizens need passport but no visa for 90 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best time of year to visit Santiago?
September–November, March–May.
Do US citizens need a visa for Chile?
US citizens need passport but no visa for 90 days.
Where should I stay in Santiago?
Las Condes for modern + business, Providencia for central, Lastarria/Bellas Artes for boutique walkable.
How do I book cheap flights to Santiago?
Call +1 (833) 546-3547 24/7.
Can you bundle the flight with a hotel?
Yes — full-service travel agency. Hotel booking.