If you’re flying through South America, chances are you’ll pass through Chile’s capital city. Santiago is an easy city for a stopover no matter the length as you can get a taste of the local culture, cuisine, and mountain views without travelling too far from the airport.
My 24-hour stopover in Santiago was unexpected – my flight from Lima to Santiago was delayed so I missed my connection and had to wait a full day until the next flight to Auckland. With a room at the Santiago Airport Holiday Inn paid for by LATAM, I had unexpected time in a new city and did some quick research to make the most of it.
Here’s how to make the most of a stopover in Santiago.
Before You Leave the Airport
Chile has e-gates in use for many passports and immigration was fast for me.
Luggage storage is available before you leave the airport so you don’t need to drag your suitcases around.
The easiest transport options to get into the city (20-30 minutes away depending on traffic) are:
- Uber or DiDi (generally cheaper)
- Taxi from the airport
- Centropuerto bus to Los Héroes
If You Have 6 Hours in Santiago
Head to Lastarria
I took an Uber to Lastarria, a leafy, artsy Santiago neighborhood which was cute to wander around with cobbled streets, wine bars and boutique shops.
Walk up Cerro Santa Lucía
Right next to Lastarria, Santa Lucía hill offers castle-like terraces and some of the best views of the city for minimal effort. It was small enough to explore in under an hour.
Explore Plaza de Armas and Historic Santiago
Walk down Merced to Plaza de Armas to see the Metropolitan Cathedral, historic post office building and street performers in the lively central main square.
If I’d had more time in Santiago
I would have headed the highest viewpoint in Latin America, Sky Costanera in the Providencia district. Sunset would be the best time to aim for and on a clear day, the Andes stretch around you.
