Santiago Short Break

Bienvenidos! Welcome to Chile. Set within a circle of snow-capped mountains, Santiago is full of life, art, and food, and it’s a perfect gateway to adventures in the snow, sea or desert. Although the city covers a large area, the centre is quite compact and easy to get around, so get out an explore if you arrive with time to spare. The city's centre is roughly triangular in shape with the Plaza de Armas – at the centre. From here it’s a seemingly endless array of shops, restaurants and parks. If you’re looking for a more serene slice of Chilean life, head out to Barrio Bella Vista, Santiago's 'Paris Quarter', and take a cable car up to Cerro San Cristobal. If the weather’s fine, you’ll have lovely views over the city and the Andes.

This morning you’ll be collected from your hotel for a panoramic tour of the city. Today's tour will be a combination of driving and walking that will allow you to explore a much larger part of the city. Discover more about this city, which was founded in 1541 by the Spaniard Pedro de Valdivia, and has experienced a turbulent history that has included native wars, floods and earthquakes. Head to the Plaza de Armas, the heart of the city and home to the cathedral. The cathedral has recently undergone renovations, so now is the ideal time to visit. The square is also home to the Royal Court Palace, Natural History Museum and Central Post Office. Walk through the traditional streets and neighbourhoods surrounding the Government Palace, then continue on to Cerro Santa Lucia, the hill where de Valdivia began the settlement. Today it’s a park of fountains and a fort that offers one of the best views of the city. Return to your accommodation and enjoy the rest of the day to explore if you wish. Tonight, take the chance to dine out at one of the city's famous restaurants.

This morning, make your way west towards the Pacific Ocean and Valparaiso (approximately 2 hours). On your way, wind through the Casablanca Valley, where you’ll have the opportunity to learn about Chilean wine and have a premium tasting at world class winery. Vines have been grown in the valley since the mid-1980s. and the cool climate is ideal for whites like Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, plus a drop of Pinot Noir, and you’ll be tasting some of them today. Continue on to the historic port town of Valparaiso, a vibrant maze of hills where the residents have done their best to fit the colourful houses and buildings on whatever patch of land possible. It’s a cultural capital of Chile with festival throughout the year and on some of the world’s best street art hidden in the labyrinth of laneways and corners. You’ll get a perfect view of the hills and the city from the coast, then take a walk around town, where the historic quarter is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the funicular lifts are an historical treasure. Discover the hidden art galleries, small cafes and breweries and then get suggestions from your guide for your lunch. After filling up on the food and culture of Valparaiso return to Santiago and your hotel, with time to relax and explore the city one final time.