Things to do in Chile

2 destinations in Chile, when to visit each, and what a trip actually costs.

Places to visit in Chile

When flights to each destination are cheapest.

Santiago: The cheapest months to fly to Santiago are May through August (Southern Hemisphere winter), when fares from major US hubs can drop to $550-750 round trip compared to $900-1,300+ during the December-February summer peak, a savings of roughly 30-40%. Flying midweek (Tuesday or Wednesday departures) typically saves an additional $50-100 over weekend flights.
Valparaiso: Fly in the Southern Hemisphere shoulder seasons of April-May or September-October, when round-trip fares from US hubs to Santiago dip to $600-850 versus $900-1,200+ in peak December-January summer; mid-week departures (Tuesday/Wednesday) typically save an additional 10-15% over weekend flights.

A day on the ground for one person travelling alone, before flights: somewhere to sleep, food, something to do and getting around.

Set your dates, budget and home airport on any destination below for a total that includes flights.

Santiago: Stroll Barrio Italia Santiago's trendiest design and vintage district is perfect for window shopping, street art, and café culture with no entry cost.
Santiago: Visit Parque Bicentenario A gorgeous modern park in Vitacura with flamingo lagoons, cycling paths, and weekend families, a slice of local life.
Santiago: Explore Mercado Central from the outside The stunning iron-and-glass 19th-century market building is a spectacle in itself; browse the fishmongers and vendors without buying.
Valparaiso: Staircase Mural Walks Every hill neighborhood has painted staircases and alleyways that reward wandering
Valparaiso: Playa Las Torpederas A sheltered city beach popular with locals, great for sunsets and people-watching
Valparaiso: Port Viewpoint at Plaza Sotomayor Watch massive container ships maneuver in one of the Pacific's busiest ports

Galindo (Barrio Bellavista) in Santiago, Cazuela de vacuno (traditional beef stew) or pastel de choclo Plates $6-10
Fuente Alemana (Alameda) in Santiago, Churrasco italiano (steak sandwich with avocado, tomato, mayo) Plates $5-9
Mercado Tirso de Molina in Santiago, Fresh ceviche or a full set lunch (almuerzo) from the market stalls Plates $4-8
La Flor de Chile in Valparaiso, Cazuela de vacuno (beef stew) with bread Plates $4-7
Mercado Puerto (stalls inside) in Valparaiso, Chorrillana (fries with beef and onions) or fresh ceviche Plates $5-9
Jota Cruz in Valparaiso, Completo italiano (Chilean-style loaded hot dog) Plates $2-5