Santiago’s historical tours showcase Chile’s best sites efficiently and economically. Two standout coast-focused options deserve special mention: The Viña Del Mar and Valparaiso World Heritage Tour offers a perfect mix of seaside charm and cultural richness, while the Valparaiso Historical City tour expertly combines UNESCO landmarks with local flavor.
In the city proper, the Vitacura-Santiago Tour reveals upscale neighborhoods and modern architecture, making it ideal for architecture buffs. The Santiago Historical Center Walking Tour pairs wonderfully with local guides who know their stuff and share fascinating stories about the capital’s past.
For wine lovers, nothing beats the Private Maipo Valley Historic Wine Tour – it’s a fantastic blend of history and wine tasting in Chile’s oldest wine region.
Let’s explore these top Santiago tours in detail:
Key Points
- The Valparaiso Historical City and Viña Del Mar Tour offers a private day trip from Santiago to UNESCO World Heritage sites with round-trip hotel transfers.
- The Santiago Historical Center Highlights Walking Tour provides a 3-hour walking tour through Santiago’s historic center, highlighting key sites like Plaza de Armas and La Moneda Palace.
- The Private Maipo Valley Historic Wine Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Santa Rita and Concha y Toro vineyards, including visits to the Andean Museum and wine tastings.
- The Viña Del Mar and Valparaiso Tour is a UNESCO World Heritage site tour along Chile’s Pacific coast with private transportation and a knowledgeable guide, though it may have accessibility challenges.
- The Vitacura-Santiago Tour is a 2.5-hour guided tour in the affluent Vitacura neighborhood, limited to 6 participants and not suitable for individuals over 70, over 264 lbs, or pregnant.
Viña Del Mar and Valparaiso World Heritage Site.
Nestled along Chile’s Pacific coastline, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Viña del Mar and Valparaiso offers a captivating glimpse into the country’s rich history and vibrant culture.
With an impressive 88 reviews and a 91% traveler recommendation, this tour provides an immersive experience through the charming coastal cities. Guests can expect private transportation, a knowledgeable tour guide, and included meals, all at a reasonable price starting from $55 per person.
While the tour is generally accessible, individuals with reduced mobility may encounter some challenges. Feedback suggests a mix of positive and constructive comments, highlighting the tour’s stunning destinations but also room for improvement in areas like cultural content and organization.
Read our full review: Viña Del Mar and Valparaiso World Heritage Site. Review
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Vitacura-Santiago: Tour KNOW IT KNOW Our History and More
Situated in the affluent Vitacura neighborhood of Santiago, the “Know It – Know Our History and More” tour provides an immersive exploration of the city’s contemporary architecture and hidden historical gems.
This 2.5-hour guided tour takes visitors through iconic buildings like the CEPAL, ESO, and UNDP offices, the SANHATTAN financial center, and the Municipality Building. Utilizing Autobalance equipment, the tour offers a unique and engaging experience.
Limited to just 6 participants, the tour is available in both English and Spanish. While not suitable for those over 70, over 264 lbs, pregnant, or with young children, the tour includes water, air conditioning, and hotel transfers, providing a comprehensive and comfortable exploration of Vitacura’s history and modernity.
Read our full review: Vitacura-Santiago: Tour KNOW IT KNOW Our History and More Review
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Valparaiso Historical Unesco City and Viña Del Mar Tour – FD
This private day trip takes travelers from Santiago to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Valparaiso and the coastal resort town of Viña del Mar.
The tour highlights include the Flower Clock in Viña del Mar and La Sebastiana, the former residence of poet Pablo Neruda.
Travelers will enjoy round-trip hotel transfers, air-conditioned transportation, and a provided lunch during the tour.
With a 100% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this private tour offers personalized attention from the guide and unique experiences beyond Santiago.
Travelers with moderate fitness levels and no serious medical conditions can participate in this tour, which isn’t wheelchair accessible but stroller accessible.
Read our full review: Valparaiso Historical Unesco City and Viña Del Mar Tour – FD Review
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Santiago: Historical Center Highlights Walking Tour
Exploring the historical heart of Santiago, this walking tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the city’s iconic landmarks.
Over the course of 3 hours, an expert guide leads groups through the historic center, highlighting sites like the Plaza de Armas, La Moneda Palace, and Cerro Santa Lucia.
Guests will learn about Santiago’s diverse history and cultural heritage, with opportunities to experience local customs firsthand.
The tour is priced at $28 per person and is available in Spanish and Portuguese.
While wheelchair accessible, it does require a good amount of walking, making it unsuitable for those with mobility issues.
Read our full review: Santiago: Historical Center Highlights Walking Tour Review
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Private Maipo Valley Historic Wine Tour: Santa Rita and Concha Y Toro Vineyards
Travelers seeking to enjoy the rich wine history of Chile can embark on the Private Maipo Valley Historic Wine Tour. This highly-rated tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the renowned Santa Rita and Concha y Toro vineyards.
Guests will enjoy multilingual guides, private transportation, and complimentary water. The tour also includes visits to the Andean Museum, wine tastings, and a delectable lunch.
With daily availability, wheelchair accessibility, and infant seats, this tour caters to a diverse range of travelers. Positive reviews highlight the expertise of the guides, the comfort of the transport, and the exceptional Carmenere wines.
Truly a must-do experience when visiting Santiago.
Read our full review: Private Maipo Valley Historic Wine Tour: Santa Rita and Concha Y Toro Vineyards Review
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City Tour Santiago Wines and Heritage
Frequently, travelers to Santiago embark on the City Tour Santiago Wines and Heritage, a comprehensive 5-hour excursion that delves into the city’s rich wine legacy and captivating historical sites.
Priced at $175 per person, the tour offers a flexible cancellation policy and a pay-later option. Highlights include visits to Bicentenario Park, Barrio Bellavista, and the Santiago Central Market, culminating in a wine tasting at Bocanáriz.
Guided in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, the private tour provides an immersive experience, with scenic cable car and funicular rides and exploration of Santiago’s architectural marvels.
Customization is available to cater to individual interests, and customer feedback lauds the knowledgeable and entertaining guide.
Read our full review: City Tour Santiago Wines and Heritage Review
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KNOW IT Tour KNOW History Vitacura Autobalance Equipment
Visitors seeking a unique and engaging historical exploration in Santiago can embark on the KNOW IT Tour KNOW History in Vitacura. This self-guided tour utilizes self-balancing all-terrain Segway-type equipment, allowing participants to glide through the area while learning about its rich past.
With a 5.0 rating from 10 reviews, the tour is highly recommended by travelers. Included in the experience are a helmet, knee and elbow pads, bottled water, and a final surprise.
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, accommodating up to 6 participants aged 14 to 65 years old. Moderate fitness is required, and the experience isn’t suitable for pregnant travelers or those with certain medical conditions.
Read our full review: KNOW IT Tour KNOW History Vitacura Autobalance Equipment Review
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Coastal Viña Del Mar and Historic Valparaiso From Santiago
Departing from Santiago, travelers can embark on an immersive full-day tour to explore the coastal cities of Viña del Mar and historic Valparaiso.
This UNESCO-listed destination is renowned for its bohemian vibes and stunning architecture. Visitors will enjoy scenic ocean vistas and discover the “Garden City” of Viña del Mar, known for its lush greenery.
The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, and a local guide with live commentary in multiple languages. While lunch is provided, options may be limited.
With a maximum group size of 20, this tour offers a personalized experience, though some travelers have noted wanting more time in Valparaiso’s vibrant neighborhoods.
Read our full review: Coastal Viña Del Mar and Historic Valparaiso From Santiago Review
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2 Great Days Discovering Santiago, Casablanca, Valparaiso: Wine + Food& History
Travelers embark on a captivating two-day private tour to discover the diverse highlights of Santiago, the Casablanca Valley, and the UNESCO-listed city of Valparaiso.
The tour maximizes sightseeing, featuring urban attractions, wine, and historical sites. An English-speaking guide ensures a personalized experience, eliminating language barriers. Included is a lunch, while winery tours and tastings are at the passengers’ expense.
The tour departs from Santiago, with additional charges for airport or port pickups. It’s not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for some travelers, but most can participate.
Booking is subject to availability, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The tour boasts a 5.0 rating based on reviews.
Read our full review: 2 Great Days Discovering Santiago, Casablanca, Valparaiso: Wine + Food& History Review
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Sum Up
Santiago offers a wealth of historical tours, from exploring the UNESCO-listed cities of Viña del Mar and Valparaiso to discovering the capital’s heritage through guided walks and wine tours. Whether you’re interested in architecture, culture, or winemaking, there’s a tour to suit your interests and provide an immersive experience into Chile’s rich history. With so many options, visitors can easily craft an itinerary that allows them to explore the past and uncover the stories that have shaped this vibrant South American destination.