
Welcome to Santiago in the Spring!
Travel Dates: September, October, November
Spring in Santiago offers a delightful mix of cool mornings and warm afternoons, so layering is essential. Start with a short sleeve shirt and add a light jacket or sweater for the cooler parts of the day, especially in September. As the temperatures warm up in October and November, lighter layers will keep you comfortable. A rain jacket is a good idea for those occasional spring showers, especially in September. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the city’s parks, neighborhoods, and historic sites.
Dress Code
Santiago is a cosmopolitan city with a laid-back yet stylish vibe, so casual yet polished clothing is ideal. During the day, comfortable attire like jeans or lightweight pants paired with a nice top or blouse is perfect for sightseeing and dining at local cafes. For evenings out, especially if you’re visiting a nice restaurant or attending an event, smart casual attire is appropriate—a dress or tailored trousers with a stylish top will fit right in. Santiaguinos appreciate a classic, understated style, so opt for well-made, comfortable shoes for walking around the city.
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SEPTEMBER
43 – 66F (6 – 19C)
Cool, partly cloudy, with showers
2.1 inches of rain
OCTOBER
47 – 72F (8 – 22C)
Mild, sunny, with occasional showers
0.9 inches of rain
NOVEMBER
50 – 77F (10 – 25C)
Warm, sunny, with clear skies
0.4 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for staying comfortable during Santiago’s mild spring afternoons. I loved having these for walking through Parque Bicentenario and other outdoor areas.
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Great for cooler mornings and evenings, especially when visiting Cerro San Cristóbal.
3. Light Jacket: Useful for the cooler days, particularly in September and October.
4. Rain Jacket: Important for the occasional spring showers, particularly in September.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Jeans: Comfortable and versatile, perfect for casual outings and exploring the city. These were great for walking around Santiago’s charming neighborhoods.
2. Pants: Lightweight pants are useful for both day and evening, providing comfort in mild weather.
3. Skirt: A stylish option for casual dining or a day out in Santiago’s chic districts.
4. Dress: A versatile piece that can be dressed up or down, perfect for evenings out in Santiago’s vibrant city center.
5. Jumpsuit: Great for a chic, all-in-one outfit that’s comfortable and perfect for Santiago’s stylish scene.
6. Leggings: Ideal for cooler evenings or if you plan to do any outdoor activities like visiting the parks. I liked having leggings for the cooler mornings.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Comfortable Walking Shoes: Essential for exploring Santiago’s many attractions and outdoor sites. I found these to be really practical for long days on my feet.
2. Flats: A stylish yet comfortable option for casual outings or dining out.
3. Sunglasses: A must for those sunny spring days, especially when spending time outdoors.
4. Hat: Great for sun protection during outdoor activities and while exploring the city.
5. Scarf: Useful for adding a stylish touch to your outfit and for extra warmth on cooler days.
6. Swimsuit: Essential if you’re planning to visit a hotel pool or take a day trip to the nearby coast.
7. Pajamas: Comfortable sleepwear for mild spring nights in Santiago.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Perfect for a weekend getaway, with enough space for your essentials and a few outfits.
2. Daypack: Useful for carrying water, snacks, and extra layers while exploring the city or taking a day trip.
3. Purse: Handy for carrying your essentials when going out for dinner or attending events.
4. Tote Bag: Great for carrying additional layers, shopping, or purchases from local markets.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Layering is key: Santiago’s spring weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers to adjust to changing temperatures.
- Rain gear: Showers are frequent in September, so a small umbrella or a light rain jacket is essential.
- Smart casual: Santiago has a relaxed yet stylish vibe, so pack outfits that can transition from day to night.
- Comfortable footwear: The city is best explored on foot, so bring comfortable walking shoes suitable for both urban exploration and visits to parks.

Santiago Spring Travel FAQs
WHICH SPRING MONTH IS THE BEST TO VISIT SANTIAGO?
November is the best month to visit Santiago during spring, with warmer temperatures and clear skies.
WHAT SPRING FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN SANTIAGO?
September: Fiestas Patrias – A national holiday celebrating Chilean independence, with parades, parties, and traditional dances.
October: Santiago a Mil – A cultural festival featuring theater, dance, and music performances throughout the city.
November: Feria Internacional del Libro de Santiago – An international book fair with author talks, book signings, and cultural events.
November: Primavera Fauna Festival – A music festival featuring international and local artists, held outdoors in the city’s parks.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN SANTIAGO IN THE SPRING?
Spring in Santiago is a beautiful time to explore the city’s rich history, stunning parks, and vibrant cultural scene. Start your day with a visit to Cerro San Cristóbal, where you can hike or take a funicular to the top for panoramic views of the city. Next, head to Barrio Bellavista, known for its colorful street art, lively cafes, and artisan shops. In the afternoon, explore the historic center, where you can visit the Plaza de Armas, Metropolitan Cathedral, and La Moneda Palace. Don’t miss a walk through Parque Bicentenario, a large park with beautiful gardens, ponds, and walking paths. If you’re visiting in September, be sure to experience the Fiestas Patrias celebrations, where you can enjoy traditional music, dances, and food. End your day with dinner at one of Santiago’s many excellent restaurants, where you can savor Chilean cuisine and local wines.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT SANTIAGO IN THE SPRING?
A 5-7 day visit is ideal for experiencing the best of Santiago in the spring, including its cultural events, historic sites, and beautiful parks.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: Day 1: Start with a morning visit to Cerro San Cristóbal, enjoying the views and exploring the park. In the afternoon, explore Barrio Bellavista, known for its street art and lively atmosphere. End the day with dinner at a traditional Chilean restaurant in the historic center. Day 2: Spend the morning exploring the historic center, including the Plaza de Armas and La Moneda Palace. In the afternoon, visit Parque Bicentenario, where you can relax and enjoy the gardens. Finish the day with a sunset walk along the Mapocho River.
5 Days: Copy the itinerary of the 2-day schedule. Add: Day 3: Visit the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes in the morning, followed by a walk through the Parque Forestal. In the evening, attend a performance at the Teatro Municipal de Santiago. Day 4: Take a day trip to the nearby Cajón del Maipo, where you can hike in the Andes and visit hot springs. Day 5: Explore the Concha y Toro vineyard in the Maipo Valley, where you can tour the winery and taste Chilean wines.
1 Week: Copy the itinerary of the 5-day schedule. Add: Day 6: Visit the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino in the morning, followed by a tour of the Mercado Central for a seafood lunch. In the afternoon, take a walk through the Bellas Artes district, known for its galleries and cafes. Day 7: Take a day trip to Valparaíso, a colorful coastal city known for its steep hills, street art, and historic funiculars.
10 Days: Copy the itinerary of the 1-week schedule. Add: Day 8: Spend the day at the Parque Metropolitano, where you can visit the zoo, botanical gardens, and swimming pools. Day 9: Explore the nearby town of Pomaire, known for its traditional pottery and artisan crafts. Day 10: Revisit your favorite spots in Santiago or discover new areas, ending with a final dinner at one of the city’s top-rated restaurants.
2 Weeks: Copy the itinerary of the 10-day schedule. Add: Day 11: Take a day trip to the Colchagua Valley, where you can visit vineyards and enjoy a wine tasting. Day 12: Spend the day exploring the nearby town of Isla Negra, where you can visit the home of the famous poet Pablo Neruda. Day 13: Visit the town of San Antonio, where you can explore the coastal scenery and enjoy fresh seafood. Day 14: Spend your final day revisiting favorite spots, shopping for souvenirs, or enjoying one last meal at your favorite Santiago restaurant.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN SANTIAGO?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Pair of Jeans
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
5 Days
- 3 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Pair of Jeans
- 1 Skirt
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Dress
- 1 Jumpsuit
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
1 Week
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Pair of Jeans
- 1 Skirt
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Dresses
- 1 Jumpsuit
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
10 Days
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 2 Pairs of Jeans
- 1 Skirt
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Jumpsuits
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
2 Weeks
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 2 Pairs of Jeans
- 2 Skirts
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 3 Dresses
- 2 Jumpsuits
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR SANTIAGO IN THE SPRING?
Heavy Winter Coats: Santiago’s spring weather is mild to warm, so heavy coats are unnecessary.
High Heels: The city’s cobblestone streets and parks are better navigated in comfortable, flat shoes.
Thick Sweaters: The temperatures are mild, so thick sweaters will likely be too warm.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO SANTIAGO IN THE SPRING?
Airfare: $800 – $1,500, depending on the departure location and booking time.
Accommodation: $80 – $200 per night, with variations based on the location and hotel class.
Transportation: $20 – $50 for local travel, including public transport and Ubers.
Meals: $30 – $70 per day, depending on dining choices.
Activities: $20 – $80 for entrance fees, tours, and other activities.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN SANTIAGO? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Yes, tipping is customary in Santiago. Around 10% is typical in restaurants, and $1-3 per drink depending on location. Tip $1-2 per bag for hotel bellhops. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is common practice.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT SANTIAGO BEFORE I VISIT?
- Santiago’s spring weather can be unpredictable: Always be prepared for sudden rain, so keep your rain gear handy.
- Public transportation is efficient: The metro, buses, and Ubers are excellent ways to get around the city.
- The city is very walkable: Bring comfortable shoes and be ready to explore on foot.
- Plan for crowds: Santiago is a popular tourist destination, especially during festivals, so book tickets and reservations in advance for popular attractions.