Santiago's position in central Chile makes it an excellent base for day trips. Valparaíso, the UNESCO World Heritage port city, is 90 minutes west by bus. The ski resorts of Valle Nevado, La Parva, and El Colorado are less than an hour into the Andes. The wine valleys of Maipo and Casablanca are both within easy reach.
Valparaíso and Viña del Mar — The coast's double draw. Valparaíso is a crumbling, charismatic port city spread across 42 hills, with outstanding street art and a bohemian energy built over generations. Viña del Mar is calmer and wealthier, with proper beaches and well-kept gardens. Frequent buses from Alameda terminal.
Maipo Valley vineyards — Concha y Toro, Santa Rita, and Cousiño-Macul all offer tours and tastings within 40 minutes of the city. Book ahead for Concha y Toro, the largest winery in South America.
Ski resorts — Valle Nevado, La Parva, and El Colorado cluster in the mountains 60–80 kilometres east. The season runs June through September. Valle Nevado has the best-developed terrain; La Parva is popular with Santiago families.
Cajón del Maipo — The Maipo River canyon east of the city is popular for rafting, hiking, and hot springs. The town of San José de Maipo is the main base.
Pomaire — A small village 60 kilometres southwest, known for handmade pottery. Watch potters work and buy direct from the workshops.
