Santiago’s most worthwhile historical tours cut right to the heart of Chile’s capital city. The standout option combines Viña Del Mar and Valparaiso – two coastal gems that showcase colonial architecture and colorful street art. For wine lovers, the Santiago Wines and Heritage tour perfectly mixes culture with excellent Chilean vintages. Budget travelers should consider the Historical Center Walking Tour, which covers major landmarks while keeping costs down.
I’m especially fond of how these tours handle logistics – providing reliable transportation and skilled English-speaking guides who know their stuff. It’s refreshing to see tours that don’t waste time on tourist traps but instead focus on authentic experiences.
Let’s explore Santiago’s best historical tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
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The Santiago Historical Center Highlights Walking Tour is a highly recommended 3-hour walking tour exploring the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Cathedral of Santiago and Plaza de Armas.
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The Private Maipo Valley Historic Wine Tour offers a personalized experience visiting Santa Rita and Concha y Toro Vineyards, including a multilingual guide and wine tastings.
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The Viña Del Mar and Valparaiso Tour provides a comprehensive day trip with private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, breakfast, and lunch, showcasing the cultural and historical aspects of these cities.
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The City Tour Santiago Wines and Heritage is a 5-hour tour featuring landmarks, a cable car ride, a visit to the Santiago Central Market, and a wine tasting at Bocanáriz.
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The Guided Shore Excursion in Cape Verde is a 3-hour tour highlighting the Praia Municipal Market and the historic Fortress, with a knowledgeable guide and a maximum of 8 participants.
Viña Del Mar and Valparaiso World Heritage Site.
Why embark on the Viña Del Mar and Valparaiso World Heritage Site tour? This highly-rated excursion takes visitors to Chile’s picturesque coastal cities, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.
With 88 reviews and a 91% recommendation rate, it’s a must-do for travelers to Santiago. The tour includes private transportation, an air-conditioned vehicle, and a knowledgeable guide who coordinates pickup.
Lunch and breakfast are also provided. While some past guests have reported minor issues with refunds and transportation, the tour generally receives positive feedback for its cultural content and organization.
At $55 per person, it offers a great value for exploring these historic destinations.
Read our full review: Viña Del Mar and Valparaiso World Heritage Site. Review
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City Tour Santiago Wines and Heritage
For those seeking to enjoy Santiago’s rich history and vibrant wine culture, the City Tour Santiago Wines and Heritage offers a captivating exploration.
Priced from $175 per person, this 5-hour tour whisks visitors through the city’s iconic landmarks, from the Bicentenario Park to the Palacio de La Moneda.
Highlights include a cable car ride, a visit to the Santiago Central Market, and a unique wine tasting experience at Bocanáriz Wine Bar.
With complimentary pick-up and drop-off, the tour provides a comprehensive experience, allowing guests to customize their itinerary to suit their interests.
Whether you’re a history buff or a wine enthusiast, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of Santiago.
Read our full review: City Tour Santiago Wines and Heritage Review
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Shore Excursion: 3-Hour Guided Historic Tour of Praia & Cidade Velha
This 3-hour guided shore excursion in Santiago, Cape Verde allows travelers to explore the captivating history of Praia and Cidade Velha.
Priced at ₹5,045.90 per person, the tour accommodates up to 8 participants and includes pickup, transportation, a professional guide, liability insurance, and entrance fees.
Highlights include the Praia Municipal Market, the historic Fortress, and the old slave market.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable, friendly guides who provide a well-organized experience with interesting sights and local insights.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this shore excursion offers an immersive exploration of Cape Verde’s rich heritage.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion: 3-Hour Guided Historic Tour of Praia & Cidade Velha Review
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Santiago: Historical Center Highlights Walking Tour
Frequently, travelers to Santiago, the lively capital of Cape Verde, seek to uncover the city’s captivating historical legacy.
The Santiago: Historical Center Highlights Walking Tour offers an engaging 3-hour excursion that showcases the city’s iconic attractions. Led by knowledgeable local guides, this wheelchair-accessible tour explores the historical center, including the Cathedral of Santiago, La Moneda Palace, and Plaza de Armas.
Participants can also admire the picturesque Cerro Santa Lucia park and its vibrant fountain. Priced at $28 per person, the tour provides a comprehensive introduction to Santiago’s diverse history and culture.
With free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later, this walking tour is an accessible and flexible way to explore the heart of the city.
Read our full review: Santiago: Historical Center Highlights Walking Tour Review
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Valparaiso Historical Unesco City and Viña Del Mar Tour – FD
Travelers seeking to explore the rich history and stunning coastal landscapes of Chile can embark on the Valparaiso Historical UNESCO City and Viña del Mar Tour.
This full-day excursion boasts an impressive 5.0 rating based on 34 reviews, with 100% of travelers recommending it. Highlights include a private, air-conditioned ride to the UNESCO-listed city of Valparaiso and the resort town of Viña del Mar.
The knowledgeable, English-speaking guide, Eugenio, is praised for his expertise. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for those with moderate fitness levels.
Seasonal limitations, such as fewer flowers in winter, are noted, but the overall experience is consistently described as unique and memorable.
Read our full review: Valparaiso Historical Unesco City and Viña Del Mar Tour – FD Review
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Vitacura-Santiago: Tour KNOW IT KNOW Our History and More
Vitacura-Santiago: Tour KNOW IT Know our history and more offers travelers an immersive exploration of the hidden history, modern architecture, and urbanism that have shaped this dynamic neighborhood.
Priced at $100 per person, the 2.5-hour tour is limited to just 6 participants and features a live guide in English and Spanish.
Highlights include discovering emblematic buildings like the CEPAL, ESO, and UNDP, as well as the SANHATTAN financial center and the award-winning Municipality Building.
Participants will also walk through the main arteries and neighborhoods that have defined Vitacura.
With free cancellation, flexible booking, and essential inclusions like water and air conditioning, this tour provides an engaging and informative experience.
Read our full review: Vitacura-Santiago: Tour KNOW IT KNOW Our History and More Review
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Private Maipo Valley Historic Wine Tour: Santa Rita and Concha Y Toro Vineyards
For those seeking to enjoy the rich history and renowned wines of Chile’s Maipo Valley, the Private Maipo Valley Historic Wine Tour: Santa Rita and Concha y Toro Vineyards offers an unparalleled experience.
This private tour provides personalized attention from a multilingual guide, free pickup, and visits to two iconic vineyards – Santa Rita and Concha y Toro. Guests enjoy wine tastings, an Andean Museum tour, and the flexibility to visit alternative vineyards if the primary options are unavailable.
With a 5.0-star rating, travelers praise the tour’s comfort, guides’ expertise, and unique experiences at each winery.
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or history buff, this tour promises an unforgettable day in the heart of Chile’s winemaking region.
Read our full review: Private Maipo Valley Historic Wine Tour: Santa Rita and Concha Y Toro Vineyards Review
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KNOW IT Tour KNOW History Vitacura Autobalance Equipment
Delving into Santiago’s history takes a unique turn with the KNOW IT Tour in Vitacura. Guests explore the area aboard self-balancing all-terrain segway-type equipment, covering up to 6 kilometers over 2 hours.
The tour is suitable for those aged 14-65, with a moderate fitness level required. The small group size of 6 travelers ensures an intimate experience, and the tour is highly recommended by all past participants.
Included are a helmet, knee and elbow pads, bottled water, and a final surprise. The tour departs from Candelaria Goyenechea 3820 in Vitacura, with the guide easily identifiable in a green helmet and white shirt featuring the SO HAPPY Tours logo.
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
Travelers can explore the coastal gems of Viña del Mar and historic Valparaiso on a full-day tour from Santiago. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, a local guide, and lunch.
Visitors can discover the UNESCO-listed Patrimonial Port in Valparaiso and enjoy ocean views. Viña del Mar, the “Garden City,” features historical structures and beautiful beaches.
While the tour is lauded for its knowledgeable guides and scenic beauty, some travelers have criticized the limited time in Valparaiso and high lunch costs.
The tour is ideal for families and first-time visitors but may not satisfy those seeking an in-depth exploration of Valparaiso’s colorful 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
Explorers seeking a more in-depth experience can embark on a 2-day private tour showcasing the diverse offerings of Santiago, Casablanca, and Valparaiso.
This highly-rated tour focuses on wine, food, and history, with private visits to wineries included. While lunch is provided, wine tastings and tours come at an additional cost.
Pickup and drop-off services are available, with special rates for larger groups. Booking requires a minimum of 24 hours, and free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the tour.
Health and accessibility considerations apply, as the tour isn’t recommended for certain travelers. This experience is available from September 2019 through December 2025.
Read our full review: 2 Great Days Discovering Santiago, Casablanca, Valparaiso: Wine + Food& History Review
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Private Walking Tour of the Historic Center of Santiago
Exploring the historic heart of Santiago, this private walking tour immerses visitors in the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Led by a bilingual English/Spanish guide, the tour covers the iconic sites of the historic center, including the Church of San Francisco and other landmarks.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, the intimate group size allows for personalized attention and the option to capture memorable photos along the way.
Lunch is included, making this a comprehensive and convenient experience.
Priced from $25 per person, the tour is accessible for most travelers and suitable for moderate fitness levels, though not recommended for pregnant individuals or those with serious medical conditions.
Read our full review: Private Walking Tour of the Historic Center of Santiago Review
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Guided City Tour Praia With Cidade Velha (World Heritage)
This guided city tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Praia and the historic Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Travelers can expect a 5-star experience, with a perfect rating from 5 reviews. The tour includes pickup and drop-off from your accommodation, air-conditioned transportation, and liability insurance.
However, it’s not wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for those with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions.
The tour accommodates a maximum of 6 travelers, with prices starting from $48.47 per person.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
Read our full review: Guided City Tour Praia With Cidade Velha (World Heritage) Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Santiago?
The best time to visit Santiago is during the spring (September-November) or autumn (March-May) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Crowds are smaller, and prices for accommodations and flights tend to be more affordable compared to the peak summer season.
Are There Any Free Walking Tours Available in Santiago?
There are several free walking tours available in Santiago. These guided tours provide an engaging introduction to the city’s historic landmarks, culture, and architecture at no cost to participants. Reservations are often recommended to secure a spot on the popular walking tours.
Can I Book a Private Tour for My Group?
Yes, you can book a private tour for your group in Santiago. Many tour companies offer personalized experiences that cater to your group’s interests and schedule. This allows you to explore the city at your own pace with a knowledgeable guide.
Are There Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?
Many tour companies offer discounts for students and seniors, typically ranging from 10-20% off the regular price. It’s best to inquire directly with the tour provider about their specific student and senior discount policies.
How Accessible Are the Historical Sites for Visitors With Disabilities?
Many historical sites in Santiago offer good accessibility for visitors with disabilities, including ramps, elevators, and guided tours tailored to their needs. However, some sites may have limited accessibility due to their age and historical architecture.
The Sum Up
Santiago offers a diverse range of historical tours that showcase the city’s rich heritage. Visitors can explore the Viña Del Mar and Valparaiso World Heritage Site, the historic center of Santiago, and the coastal towns of Viña Del Mar and Valparaiso. These tours provide an opportunity to learn about the region’s history, culture, and architecture while enjoying the beautiful scenery.