Private car transfer
from Valparaiso to Santiago

Its central location in Chile makes it a must-visit for anyone interested in this region's culture and those who want to continue toward stunning beaches and snowy peaks. It is also found near some of Chile’s most beautiful wine country, so a trip to Santiago is well worth the effort. However, before you begin exploring this capital city, you should make a few stops along the way with Daytrip.

When you travel with Daytrip, your English-speaking driver can show you the best spots along the route, including the Isla Negra Museum House. This museum is found within a seaside home, offering a whimsical look at Nobel Laurente Pablo Neruda’s life. Then, there is the Parque Tricao reserve that you should explore if you love animals and nature and want to participate in activities that are filled with ecological sightseeing.

Just before you get to Santiago and get swept away by the old and the new, you will also want to visit Vina Santa Rita, one of Chile's best wine tourism experiences. The flavors, scenery, and history are wonderful sights to behold.

Santiago is the capital of Chile, the southernmost country in South America. Its population is more than 8 million, which is over half of the country's total. Santiago is located in a lush valley surrounded by towering mountainscapes and a serene but fierce river.

In recent years, it has become a vibrant, cosmopolitan city. Its location will allow you to enjoy breathing fresh air atop the Andes in the morning and hours later basking in the sunset in the Pacific Ocean. Historically, the city was founded in 1541 by Pedro de Valdivia, a Spanish conqueror, making it not as old as other countries in the world.

Before it was known as Santiago, it was called Santiago del Nuevo Extremo, which translates to ‘Santiago of the New Frontier.’ When the Spanish conquered Santiago, it was inhabited by the Picunche Indians, who were placed under the rule of the Spanish settlers.

Interestingly, while under Spanish rule, growth within the city was slow. After a few centuries and the EWar of Independence, Santiago was named the republic's capital in 1818. Ever since, the city has seen impressive growth, with the nation's wealth flowing into it.

Some of the architectural remnants of Spanish colonial rule in the city worth exploring include the churches of San Francisco, the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Consulate Tribunal, and the Palace of the Governors. If you want to see 19th-century architecture, you can explore the Cousiño Palace. The Fine Arts Palace, the Union Club, and the National Library are good examples of 20th-century styles.

Architecture aside, Santiago has much to offer explorers – both those who enjoy indoor attractions and those who love venturing outdoors. You can expect to lose yourself in the streets as you browse innovative design stores, original art galleries, and arts and crafts fairs or take in impressive views from any of the city's hills. Plus, plenty of restaurants are available for a hearty meal before you enjoy Barrio Bellavista's nightlife!

Pack accordingly

Did you know that Santiago has both coastal and inland climates? It's a unique city with weather patterns you might not be used to. That’s why it is recommended that you pack accordingly for coastal breezes and colder inland temperatures when you get to the city. Packing appropriately will also be beneficial during your trip from Valparaiso to Santiago.

Sightsee by exploring the route

As you now know, some of the world's most spectacular sights can be found between Valparaiso and Santiago. So, if you’re planning a trip from one city to the next, you must consider sightseeing along the way. The Concon Dunes is a worthwhile side trip for outdoor enthusiasts, considering it provides spectacular Pacific Ocean views. Those who love exploring urban landscapes should consider Vina del Mar. It's a seaside city with a lot to offer.

Be sure to carry cash

You don’t want to travel from Valparaiso to Santiago without having enough Chilean Pesos on hand. Although most places along the route and in the city accept cards, a few shops, cafes, restaurants, and attractions still don't.

From Valparaiso to Santiago by bus

Most people who want to complete a Valparaiso to Santiago trip do so by bus since it is one of the only reliable forms of transportation—besides private car services like Daytrip. Traveling by bus from Valparaiso to Santiago is cost-effective and doesn’t take too long. On average, tickets cost between $7 and $12 (€6-€11), and the trip is about one and a half to two hours long.

However, this time frame can suddenly change depending on traffic and weather conditions. It's also worth noting that this route offers frequent bus trips, but the buses tend to get quite crowded, and bus terminals can be excessively busy and overwhelming.

From Valparaiso to Santiago by taxi

Although far from ideal, you can take a taxi from Valparaiso to Santiago. However, it isn’t the most reliable travel option, especially considering that finding a taxi to take you to Santiago can be particularly challenging. Usually, it requires negotiation and advanced booking, which everyone does not want to deal with.

In addition, taking a taxi is expensive, especially for a one-and-a-half to two-hour drive. On average, a taxi trip from Valparaiso to Santiago will cost between $120 and $150 (€111-€138), making this not the best choice for budget-conscious travelers. However, taking a taxi can be more convenient than the bus since there is more room for luggage and you won't need to contend with large crowds at terminals.

From Valparaiso to Santiago by private car service

For many people, the best way to travel from Valparaiso to Santiago is to book with a private car transfer service like Daytrip. Although some door-to-door services can be quite costly, a car trip between these two places with Daytrip will only cost you about $28 (€26). This is only slightly more expensive than a bus and cheaper than a taxi.

When you travel with Daytrip, you will experience luxury and comfort. The car you will drive in is safe, and a professional English-speaking driver will drive you. This driver can help you with your luggage and share a few must-visit places you can stop at and sightsee along the way to Santiago.

The trip takes about one and a half hours and is incredibly convenient, with no transfers needed. You also get to choose when and the time you travel, which allows you to better plan your travel activities.

San Cristóbal Hill

If you’re interested in seeing some of Santiago's most spectacular views, you should consider visiting San Cristóbal Hill. This famous hill stands almost 3,000 feet (914 m) above the rest of Santiago’s Metropolitan Park. The park itself is beautiful, with large swathes of greenery spread out, but if you can get to the summit of the hill, you won’t be disappointed.

To reach the top of the hill, you will need to hitch a ride on the funicular at the end of Pio and Nono Street on the western side of Metropolitan Park. If you don't want to do this, you can lace up your hiking boots and march yourself up to the top. It should only take an hour if you’re fit!

Sky Costanera

The 62-story Sky Costanera is the tallest building in South America and is well worth visiting. It is located in the high-rise ‘Sanhattan’ district. When you reach the top of the Sky Costanera, which is 1,000 feet (304 m) above street level, you'll get a panoramic view of the city surrounding the building. If the weather permits, you’ll also get to glimpse the magnificent Andes mountains and the coastline.

Besides a killer view, the Sky Constanera also offers an enticing coffee shop and bar where you can enjoy a spiced latte or delicious craft cocktail and maybe even a meal or two. Afterward, much shopping can be done close to the Sky Costanera, and many offer special discounts to foreigners.

Metropolitan Cathedral

If you find yourself near the Plaza de Armas during your trip to Santiago, you should consider touring the Metropolitan Cathedral. This beautiful neoclassical cathedral dates back to 1541 and is located on the plaza's western edge. However, it's important to note that the building has sustained severe damage in the past and has succumbed to fires and earthquakes.

The version you can explore today was built in the 1750s, with Italian architect Joaquin Toesca adding a new twist in the 1780s. You'll have to visit if you want to learn more about the twist (spoiler alert: it's a blend of Baroque and neoclassical design elements).

From March to May, you can enjoy magnificent vineyards that showcase the region's breathtaking fall foliage. This season is also filled with grape harvest festivals. If you choose the spring from September through November, you’ll love seeing Chile’s blooming flowers, pleasurable temperatures, and numerous nationwide Independence Day festivities.

Summer is also a popular travel time, but it's not as cost-effective, and the temperatures can be uncomfortable. Crowds during this time of year can also be frustrating.