Flights to Santiago Arturo Merino Benitez Airport (SCL)

Discover Santiago Arturo Merino Benitez

Cheap Flights to Santiago

Nestled between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Coast in Chile, the city of Santiago is the place to go for those who want to explore Chilean culture, hike the mountain trails nearby or lounge at a small cafe and people watch. Flights to Santiago usually land at Santiago International Airport (SCL), which is about 9 miles northwest of Santiago's downtown area. When you arrive, you are within reach of unique landscapes and environments that are just waiting to be explored. Santiago is a popular stop for backpackers on their journey through Chile.

Santiago International Airport
This airport is also known as Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport or Pudahuel Airport. One of the busiest travel hubs in Chile, it has a terminal for domestic flights and a separate terminal for international flights. American Airlines, Delta Airlines and United Airlines all service flights to Santiago. Several tax-free shops sell Chilean wine, jewelry and other souvenirs in the terminals and in the baggage claim area. The terminals also have several restaurants and coffee shops. For VIP flyers, there are lounges located in the international terminal. Centropuerto buses run every 10 to 15 minutes and will get you to the city center. Taxis will cost about $15 to get you to your destination.

Attractions in Santiago, Chile
To learn about Chilean history, visit the Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos where you can learn about the 1973 coup by studying the artifacts and documents exhibited there. An audio guide in English is available. Stop by the Catedral Metropolitana for a look at the architecture. This grand cathedral sits in the Plaza de Armas surrounded by cafes and shops.

If you want to take a relaxing stroll away from the bustle of the city, Parque Araucano has an outdoor and indoor place for the kids to play as well as biking trails. For little restaurants and cafes, head to Barrio Lastarria where you'll find locally owned businesses selling fresh seafood dishes, pastel de choclo and baked empanadas. You'll also find flea markets and an old movie theater. Plenty of hiking trails allow you to explore the Andes Mountains up close, including Manquehue, which is on the north side of the city, and Pochoco, which offers stunning views of Santiago.

Santiago, Chile Travel Tips
In January, the Festival Nacional del Folklore celebrates traditional Chilean music, dance and culture. If you're visiting the city in March, you can enjoy rodeo season. Although most of the action takes place in the town of Rancagua 50 miles south, Santiago still hosts exciting rodeo events that can be enjoyed by the public. In November, the Feria Internacional de Artesanía highlights the works of talented Chilean craftsmen and women.

At a mid-range restaurant in Santiago, a meal for two costs about $30 on average. A pint of domestic beer and a cup of cappuccino cost about $2 each. If you travel to Santiago in January, expect average temperatures to be around 69 degrees Fahrenheit. In June, the average temperature drops to about 48 degrees.