Flights to Santiago

Santiago, the vibrant capital of Chile, attracts travellers worldwide with its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and historical landmarks. Flights to Santiago are readily available from major cities worldwide, facilitated by Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport. Airlines such as LATAM Airlines, American Airlines, and British Airways offer frequent services to Santiago, ensuring convenient travel options for visitors. Whether exploring the bustling streets of the city centre, admiring the Andes Mountains' majestic beauty, or sampling Chilean cuisine in local eateries, Santiago promises a captivating experience for every traveller. Plan your journey to this South American gem and embark on an unforgettable adventure.

Airports in Santiago

Airlines flying to Santiago from the UK

• British Airways
• LATAM Airlines
• Iberia
• Air France
• KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
• Air Europa
• Delta Air Lines
• American Airlines
• Virgin Atlantic

What is the best time to get cheapest flights to Santiago?

The best time to secure cheaper flights to Santiago typically falls during the shoulder seasons, which are periods between the peak and off-peak seasons. Consider the following insights:

• Shoulder Seasons: Aim to book flights during the shoulder seasons, such as spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May). During these times, demand is lower, resulting in potentially lower airfares.
• Avoid Peak Season: Steer clear of booking flights during the peak season, which typically occurs during the summer months (December to February) and around major holidays. Increased demand during these times often leads to higher prices.
• Flexible Travel Dates: Remain flexible with your travel dates to take advantage of any fluctuations in airfares. Use fare comparison tools and consider flying mid-week or during off-peak hours for potentially cheaper options.
• Book in Advance: While last-minute deals can sometimes be found, it's generally advisable to book your flights to Santiago well in advance to secure the best prices, especially if you're planning to travel during popular times.
• Monitor Airfare Trends: Keep an eye on airfare trends and sign up for price alerts from various airlines and travel websites. This allows you to track price changes and snag deals when fares drop.

How long is a direct and indirect flight to Santiago from United Kingdom?

The duration of a direct flight from the United Kingdom to Santiago depends on factors such as the departure city and airline, but it typically ranges from around 14 to 16 hours. Direct flights offer the advantage of a shorter travel time since there are no layovers.

On the other hand, an indirect or connecting flight from the UK to Santiago usually takes longer due to layovers at intermediate airports. The total duration of an indirect flight can vary widely depending on the duration of the layover and the routing chosen by the airline. Generally, an indirect flight may take anywhere from 18 to 24 hours or more, depending on the specific itinerary.

What is the time difference between the United Kingdom and Santiago?

The time difference between the United Kingdom and Santiago varies depending on the time of year due to daylight saving time changes in each location. Typically:

During the UK's daylight-saving time (from late March to late October), Santiago is 4 hours behind the UK.

During the UK's standard time (from late October to late March), Santiago is 3 hours behind the UK.

This means that Santiago is generally 3 to 4 hours behind the United Kingdom. However, travellers should always check for the current time difference as it may vary due to daylight saving time changes.

How much is a return flight from United Kingdom to Santiago?

The cost of a return flight from the United Kingdom to Santiago varies depending on several factors such as the airline, time of booking, class of service, and time of travel. Here are the average return fares across different classes:

• Economy Class: Average return fares range from £500 to £900. These fares offer standard amenities and seating options.
• Premium Economy Class: Average return fares range from £900 to £1,500. These fares typically include enhanced amenities, more legroom, and better seating options compared to economy class.
• Business Class: Average return fares range from £1,500 to £3,000 or more. These fares offer premium services, such as lie-flat seats, gourmet dining, priority check-in, and access to airport lounges.
• First Class: Average return fares can vary significantly and often exceed £3,000. First-class fares provide the highest level of luxury and personalised service, including spacious suites, exclusive lounges, and gourmet dining experiences.

These average return fares serve as estimates and can fluctuate based on factors such as seasonality, demand, promotions, and booking flexibility. It's advisable to check with airlines and travel agencies for current prices and deals when planning your trip from the UK to Santiago.

Which United Kingdom Airport can I fly to Santiago?

• London Heathrow Airport(LHR)
• London Gatwick Airport (LGW)
• Manchester Airport (MAN)
• Birmingham Airport (BHX)

Baggage Allowance on flights to Santiago from the United Kingdom

Baggage policies for flights to Santiago from the UK can vary depending on the airline and the class of service. Here's a general overview of baggage allowances across different classes:

• Economy Class: Typically, passengers are allowed one piece of checked luggage weighing up to 23kg to 30kg, depending on the airline. Carry-on baggage allowance usually includes one piece of hand luggage and one personal item, with weight restrictions ranging from 7kg to 10kg.
• Premium Economy Class: Baggage allowances in premium economy class are usually slightly more generous than in economy class, with allowances for checked luggage ranging from 1 to 2 pieces, each weighing up to 23kg to 30kg. Carry-on baggage allowances are similar to those in economy class.
• Business Class: Passengers flying business class typically enjoy increased baggage allowances, with allowances for checked luggage ranging from 2 to 3 pieces, each weighing up to 32kg. Carry-on baggage allowances are similar to those in economy class.
• First Class: First-class passengers usually benefit from the most generous baggage allowances, with allowances for checked luggage ranging from 2 to 3 pieces, each weighing up to 32kg. Carry-on baggage allowances are similar to those in economy class.

Mini Travel Guide of Santiago, Chile

Best Things to Do in Santiago

• Visit Plaza de Armas: Explore the historic heart of Santiago at Plaza de Armas, surrounded by iconic landmarks such as the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Central Post Office.
• Take a Stroll in Parque Metropolitano: Enjoy panoramic views of Santiago from Cerro San Cristobal in Parque Metropolitano, one of the largest urban parks in the world.
• Discover Chilean Culture at La Chascona: Visit La Chascona, one of the former homes of Chilean poet Pablo Neruda, now transformed into a museum showcasing his life and work.
• Explore Barrio Bellavista: Wander through the vibrant streets of Barrio Bellavista, known for its colourful murals, trendy boutiques, and lively nightlife.
• Taste Chilean Cuisine at Mercado Central: Indulge in traditional Chilean dishes at Mercado Central, Santiago's central market, renowned for its fresh seafood and bustling atmosphere.
• Wander through Lastarria: Explore the charming neighbourhood of Lastarria, filled with art galleries, boutique shops, and sidewalk cafes, perfect for leisurely strolls and people-watching.
• Visit the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes: Admire a diverse collection of Chilean and international art at the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, housed in a stunning neoclassical building.
• Take a Day Trip to Valparaiso: Venture out of Santiago for a day trip to Valparaiso, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colourful houses, bohemian atmosphere, and funicular rides.
• Sample Chilean Wine in Maipo Valley: Explore the nearby Maipo Valley wine region and indulge in wine tasting tours at prestigious vineyards, known for producing some of Chile's finest wines.
• Experience Santiago's Nightlife: Enjoy Santiago's vibrant nightlife scene, from chic rooftop bars to traditional dance clubs, offering entertainment for all tastes and preferences.

Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in Santiago

• Bellavista: Known for its bohemian atmosphere, colourful street art, and vibrant nightlife, Bellavista offers a range of accommodation options, from boutique hotels to budget hostels.
• Lastarria: A trendy and upscale neighbourhood, Lastarria is filled with charming cobblestone streets, art galleries, boutique shops, and gourmet restaurants, making it an ideal location for culture enthusiasts.
• Providencia: A bustling commercial and residential area, Providencia boasts tree-lined streets, upscale shopping malls, excellent dining options, and easy access to public transportation.
• Las Condes: A modern and affluent neighbourhood, Las Condes is home to luxury hotels, upscale shopping centres, corporate offices, and fine dining restaurants, making it popular among business travellers and affluent tourists.
• Santiago Centro: The historic city centre offers a mix of colonial architecture, government buildings, cultural attractions, and budget-friendly accommodation options, ideal for travellers interested in exploring the city's landmarks.
• Vitacura: Known for its upscale residential areas, Vitacura features luxury hotels, designer boutiques, art galleries, and upscale restaurants, offering a sophisticated and tranquil stay.
• Nunoa: A diverse and vibrant neighbourhood, Nunoa is known for its lively atmosphere, cultural events, green spaces, and eclectic dining options, catering to a range of budgets and preferences.
• La Reina: A residential neighbourhood with a relaxed atmosphere, La Reina offers a peaceful stay away from the city centre, with parks, restaurants, and shopping centres within easy reach.
• Barrio Brasil: A historic neighbourhood with a bohemian vibe, Barrio Brasil features colourful colonial buildings, street markets, art galleries, and budget-friendly accommodation options, attracting backpackers and budget travellers.
• Barrio Yungay: A hip and up-and-coming neighbourhood, Barrio Yungay is known for its historic architecture, cultural centres, street art, and eclectic dining scene, offering a unique and authentic Santiago experience.

Best Time to Visit Santiago

However, popular tourist spots can be crowded, and accommodation prices may be higher during this time.

Best Hotels to Stay in Santiago

• The Singular Santiago: A luxurious five-star hotel located in the heart of Santiago's Lastarria neighbourhood, offering elegant rooms, fine dining options, and top-notch amenities.
• The Ritz-Carlton, Santiago: A prestigious hotel known for its impeccable service, sophisticated decor, and stunning views of the city and the Andes Mountains.
• Hotel Santiago by Mandarin Oriental: A contemporary luxury hotel featuring spacious rooms, upscale dining options, a spa, and a rooftop pool with panoramic views of Santiago.
• Noi Vitacura: A boutique hotel in the upscale Vitacura neighbourhood, offering stylish rooms, a rooftop pool, gourmet dining, and a prime location near shopping and dining attractions.
• Hotel Magnolia: A charming boutique hotel housed in a restored mansion in Santiago's historic city centre, featuring elegant rooms, a courtyard garden, and a rooftop terrace with city views.
• The Singular Santiago - Lastarria Hotel: A boutique hotel blending historic architecture with modern design, located in the vibrant Lastarria neighbourhood, known for its cultural attractions and culinary scene.
• The Aubrey Santiago: A boutique hotel set in a beautifully restored mansion in the bohemian Bellavista neighbourhood, offering stylish rooms, a courtyard garden, and easy access to nightlife and cultural attractions.
• Hotel Luciano K: A boutique hotel housed in a historic Art Deco building in Santiago's city centre, featuring chic rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a restaurant serving Chilean cuisine with a modern twist.
• NH Collection Plaza Santiago: A contemporary hotel offering comfortable rooms, a fitness centre, and a rooftop pool with panoramic views, located in Santiago's financial district.
• Cumbres Lastarria: A modern hotel with sleek design and upscale amenities, located in the trendy Lastarria neighbourhood, known for its cultural attractions, boutiques, and dining options.

Best Restaurants to Eat in Santiago

• Borago: A world-renowned restaurant known for its innovative and seasonal Chilean cuisine, offering a unique dining experience with a focus on local ingredients and flavours.
• Astrid y Gaston: A top-rated restaurant led by renowned Peruvian chef Gaston Acurio, serving creative and refined Peruvian dishes with a modern twist in an elegant setting.
• Ambrosia: A popular restaurant offering contemporary Chilean cuisine with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, served in a stylish and intimate atmosphere.
• 99 Restaurante: A trendy eatery known for its inventive dishes and creative cocktails, featuring a modern take on Chilean cuisine with international influences.
• Peumayen Ancestral Food: A unique dining experience showcasing traditional Chilean ingredients and cooking techniques, with a menu inspired by indigenous Mapuche culture.
• BordeRio: A waterfront dining destination offering a diverse selection of seafood dishes, grilled meats, and Chilean classics, with stunning views of the Mapocho River.
• Osaka: A fusion restaurant blending Japanese and Peruvian flavours, known for its sushi, ceviche, and innovative Nikkei cuisine, served in a sleek and stylish setting.
• Bocanariz: A wine bar and restaurant specialising in Chilean wines, offering an extensive selection of wine flights paired with gourmet small plates, cheese, and charcuterie.
• Liguria: A classic Santiago institution serving traditional Chilean comfort food, such as empanadas, cazuelas, and grilled meats, in a lively and convivial atmosphere.
• Castillo Forestal: A historic restaurant housed in a beautiful mansion overlooking Parque Forestal, offering a menu of contemporary Chilean cuisine with European influences, accompanied by live music and a vibrant ambience.

How to Travel Within Santiago

• Metro: Santiago boasts a comprehensive metro system with several lines connecting various parts of the city. Purchase a rechargeable Bip! card to access the metro and use it to tap in and out of stations. The metro is efficient, safe, and a convenient way to navigate Santiago.
• Bus: Santiago has an extensive bus network covering virtually every corner of the city. Different bus companies operate various routes, so it's essential to check route maps and schedules. Pay for bus fares with a Bip! card or cash when boarding.
• Uber or Taxi: Ride-hailing services like Uber are widely available in Santiago, providing a convenient and reliable option for getting around the city. Traditional taxis are also plentiful and can be hailed on the street or booked through an app.
• Bicycle: Santiago offers bike rental services and designated bike lanes, making cycling a popular and eco-friendly way to explore the city. Consider renting a bike from one of the many bike shops or using a bike-sharing service like Bikesantiago.
• Metro Cable: Experience breathtaking views of Santiago by taking a ride on the Metro Cable, a cable car system that connects various parts of the city, including San Cristóbal Hill and the neighbourhoods of La Pintana and Puente Alto.
• Colectivos: Shared taxis known as colectivos operate on fixed routes within Santiago. Passengers can hail them like regular taxis or board them at designated stops. Colectivos are an affordable option for short trips within the city.
• Rental Car: If you prefer the flexibility of having your vehicle, you can rent a car from one of the many rental agencies in Santiago. However, be aware of traffic congestion and parking challenges, especially in the city centre.
• Electric Scooters: Electric scooters are becoming increasingly popular in Santiago, offering a convenient and fun way to travel short distances. Look for scooter-sharing services like Lime or Bird to rent electric scooters by the minute.
• Tourist Bus: Consider taking a hop-on-hop-off tourist bus to explore Santiago's major attractions at your own pace. These buses typically follow predefined routes and allow passengers to get on and off at various stops throughout the city.

Visa Requirements for Santiago, Chile

UK residents visiting Santiago, Chile, for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days do not require a visa. However, travellers must possess a valid passport with at least six months' validity from the date of entry and proof of onward or return travel. Additionally, visitors must complete a Tourist Card (Tarjeta de Turismo) upon arrival, which is valid for 90 days and can be extended for an additional 90 days if needed. For longer stays or other purposes such as work or study, a visa may be required, and travellers should consult the nearest Chilean embassy or consulate for guidance.