Having a long flight connection does not have to be a tedious wait in front of a boarding gate, since the airport is only 15 kilometers from the center of Santiago. Going out to explore the Chilean capital is a viable option as long as travel times are well planned and attractions close to each other are chosen to avoid complications with traffic.
What to do if you have a stopover in Santiago?
To get from the air terminal to points of interest, travelers have taxis, shared transfer services or the economical buses of the TurBus line that connect directly to the heart of Santiago. This last option is the most recommended due to its departure frequency every five minutes and its low cost, allowing you to quickly reach the Metro network to move freely around the city.
If you have little timethere are strategic sectors that offer a complete experience of gastronomy, culture and panoramic views without moving too far from the urban center of Santiago:
- Sky Costanera: it is the highest viewpoint in South America, located in a 300-meter skyscraper that offers a 360-degree view of the entire Andes Mountains.
- Barrio Italia: a bohemian area ideal for walking among antique shops, independent design stores and a wide range of specialty coffees.
- Historic Center: where the National Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art are grouped for those seeking to soak up local history.
- IKEA: the first branch of the Swedish chain in the region, located in Las Condes, is an unmissable walk for fans of design and decoration.
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Those who prefer an afternoon of museums will find in the central area an unparalleled cultural offering that reflects the artistic heritage and roots of the native peoples of Santiago. Walking through the Forest Park towards the Museum of Contemporary Art allows you to enjoy a green respite in the middle of the cement before heading back to the airport for the next flight.
For lovers of shopping and modernity, the Costanera Center complex is presented as the most efficient alternative, uniting an international-level shopping center with the highest bar in Santiago. In this space it is possible to solve everything from last-minute souvenir purchases to enjoying a cocktail with a sunset view on the 61st floor of the Great Tower.
