La Moneda, Historic Downtown, and Cerro Santa Lucía Private Tour

2 h 30 min Free cancellation Private tour

La Moneda, Historic Downtown, and Cerro Santa Lucía Private Tour, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Embark on a private journey through Santiago's captivating historic heart, where every step reveals a new layer of the city's soul. Your dedicated expert guide will lead you on a personalized exploration, unveiling the fascinating stories and hidden secrets behind iconic landmarks like the stately La Moneda Palace, the vibrant Plaza de Armas, and the magnificent Metropolitan Cathedral. Wander at your own pace down charming, storied streets such as the unique New York Street and past the historic Casa Colorada.

The tour culminates dramatically with breathtaking, panoramic views from the summit of Santa Lucía Hill, the scenic and symbolic spot where Santiago was first founded. This intimate and unforgettable exploration is meticulously crafted for discerning travelers seeking an in-depth, truly authentic, and unparalleled look at the layers of history, art, and daily life that define Chile’s dynamic capital.

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At a glance

Duration: 2 h 30 min
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–10
Guide: Portuguese, English, Spanish
Operated by: Unplanned Detours

Ages: Children (5–12 years) · Adults (13–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Photo stops at key locations like Plaza de Armas and Cerro Santa Lucía
Included: Entry into select churches and historic landmarks when accessible
Included: Enjoy panoramic views of Santiago from Santa Lucia Hill
Included: Recommendations for food, shopping, and things to do after the tour
Included: Certified Local Expert Guide (Portuguese/English/Spanish)
Included: Insights into Santiago's history, culture, architecture, and traditions
Included: Fully narrated walking tour through Santiago’s historic downtown

Not included

Not included: Tips/Gratuities
Not included: Transportation

Itinerary

Stop 1

5 min

Discover Plaza de la Ciudadanía, a grand civic space in Santiago that stretches from the southern façade of La Moneda Palace to Avenida Libertador Bernardo O’Higgins. Redesigned in 2006 as part of Chile’s Bicentennial Project, the plaza features elegant water mirrors, the monumental Bicentennial Flag, and the underground Centro Cultural La Moneda, which hosts exhibitions and cultural events. It also houses the Altar de la Patria, where the remains of national hero Bernardo O’Higgins rest, alongside statues honoring Chile’s independence leaders. This plaza serves as a powerful symbol of Chile’s history, identity, and civic pride.
La Moneda

5 min

La Moneda is Chile’s presidential palace and a cornerstone of national identity. Completed in 1805, this neoclassical building originally housed the colonial mint. Today, it serves as the seat of the President and key government ministries. With its elegant columns, grand courtyards, and symbolic architecture, La Moneda represents Chile’s political legacy and resilience. Visitors can admire its façade from the Plaza de la Constitución and explore its surroundings, which include public art, gardens, and historical monuments.
Stop 3

5 min

Located at the heart of Santiago, Plaza de la Constitución is a historically significant square, home to the La Moneda Palace, the seat of Chile's government. This grand plaza is a symbol of the country’s political life, where important events and demonstrations have taken place. Surrounded by beautiful neoclassical buildings, the plaza offers a peaceful space to reflect on Chile’s rich history and political evolution. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in the nation's heritage.
Stop 4

5 min Admission included

The oldest standing building in Santiago, the Church of San Francisco dates back to 1618. This colonial-era landmark survived major earthquakes and holds a rich collection of religious art, offering a glimpse into the city’s Spanish colonial roots and resilience.
Barrio Paris Londres

5 min

Barrio Paris-Londres, developed in the 1920s, transports visitors to a charming European enclave with its cobblestone streets and elegant Parisian-style architecture. This unique neighborhood, built on former Franciscan convent grounds, offers a peaceful escape and a poignant reminder of Chile's complex history at sites like Londres 38.
Stop 6

5 min

One of Santiago’s busiest pedestrian streets, Paseo Estado reflects the city’s commercial heart, lined with shops, historic buildings, and vibrant street life. It’s a lively connection between colonial-era landmarks and the modern city.
Stop 7

5 min

Step into a hidden corner of Santiago that feels like a slice of Manhattan. Paseo Nueva York is a short, elegant street lined with early 20th-century neoclassical buildings, reflecting Santiago’s ambition to modernize and mirror European and American cities at the time. It’s a quiet, atmospheric spot that contrasts sharply with the city's busy downtown.
Santiago Stock Exchange

5 min

Founded in 1893, the Santiago Stock Exchange is housed in a stunning French-style building, symbolizing Chile’s economic boom during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It's still one of Latin America’s most important financial centers, and its elegant architecture highlights the city's historical ties to global markets.
Museo de Santiago - Casa Colorada

Passing by

Built in 1769, Casa Colorada is one of the best-preserved colonial mansions in Santiago. With its iconic red façade, it once housed important figures of Chile’s independence movement and now stands as a symbol of the city's colonial past.
Stop 10

5 min

Built in the early 1600s, the Church of St. Augustine is one of Santiago’s oldest and most historic churches. Known for its baroque architecture and the famous statue of Cristo de Mayo — a crucifix tied to a legendary earthquake story — it remains a vital symbol of the city’s religious and cultural heritage.
Plaza de Armas

10 min

Founded in 1541, Plaza de Armas is the historic heart of Santiago. It has been the city’s main public space for centuries, surrounded by iconic buildings and full of life with street artists, performers, and locals.
Stop 12

5 min

The Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago, built between the 18th and 19th centuries, is a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture and the seat of the Catholic Church in Chile. Its richly decorated interior reflects centuries of history and resilience.
Stop 13

Passing by

Once home to Chile’s National Congress, this grand neoclassical building dates back to the 19th century. Surrounded by peaceful gardens, it symbolizes Chile’s political history and remains a striking example of the country’s republican architecture.
Central Market (Mercado Central)

5 min

Opened in 1872, Mercado Central is Santiago’s iconic seafood market, famous for its fresh catch and lively atmosphere. The iron structure was designed in Britain, and today it’s one of the best places to experience authentic Chilean flavors.
Parque Forestal

10 min

Stretching along the Mapocho River, Parque Forestal is Santiago’s green lung, designed in the late 19th century. It’s a favorite spot for locals to relax, exercise, and enjoy outdoor art, connecting major cultural landmarks along its path.
National Museum of Fine Arts

5 min

Housed in a beautiful Beaux-Arts building from 1910, the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes holds one of Latin America’s oldest art collections. It’s a cultural treasure, blending Chilean and international art across centuries.
Stop 17

10 min

Once a rocky outcrop and now a lush urban park, Santa Lucía Hill is where Santiago was officially founded in 1541. Its beautiful stairways, fountains, and panoramic views make it a must-visit spot in the city center.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

Meet at Monument to General Bernardo O'Higgins (man on horse, 2 legs up) in Plaza de la Ciudadanía, opposite La Moneda Palace

Subway: Exit La Moneda Line 1 red line, take exit D (Nataniel Cox). Walk east on Alameda, find the big plaza with two statues

End point

Tour ends at Santa Lucía's Hill in front of Neptune's Terrace with access to multiple transportation methods

Using your ticket

Your Unplanned Detours Guide will be holding a blue flag at the meeting point
We ask guests to be at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before departure
Please note, we can’t refund missed tours or tickets due to late arrivals
Gratuities for our guides/drivers who provide excellent service are always appreciated.
For a smoother experience, we suggest keeping your belongings light-just a small backpack and minimal jewelry.
Some of the sites we visit might have limited shade or be exposed to the elements, so we recommend dressing appropriately for the weather
For questions about your tour, you can call us at +56232107697 or message us via whatsapp to +56983946115 or paste the link on your browser - https://wa.me/message/NX3BHWC3QCO3L1

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

Good to know

Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
To ensure a truly personalized experience, our tours are limited to small groups. For parties of 10 or more, we are happy make arrangements to maintain the same high-quality attention.