🇨🇱 For those studying or working in Santiago, Chile, a weekend getaway to Viña del Mar is a delightful escape. Nestled about 120 kilometers west of Santiago on the coast, this charming seaside resort city offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
### Transportation
🚌 **Long-distance bus**
You can easily book tickets online from Turbus, Condor, or Pullman Bus. The highest one-way fare is around 8900 pesos (about 70 RMB), with round-trip tickets offering a discount, making the return journey just half the price. Buses depart frequently from Terminal de Buses Pajaritos and Terminal Alameda, and the trip takes approximately 1.
5 to 2 hours.
🚗 **Self-driving**
If you have an international driver’s license, renting a car and driving along Ruta 68 is a fantastic option. The road signs are clear, the road conditions are excellent, and the scenic views make the drive a pleasure.
### Must-visit attractions
Viña del Mar is a compact city, ideal for leisurely strolls along the picturesque coastline.
⛵ **Beach (Playa de Viña del Mar)**
The beach is a haven for sunbathing, swimming, and paddle games. A vibrant street by the sea is filled with handicrafts and street performances, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs.
Don’t forget to bring some cash for convenience.
🌸 **Flower Clock (Reloj de Flores)**
A symbol of Viña del Mar since 1962, the Flower Clock is located near the coastal avenue. Its intricate design and colorful flowers make it a must-see, even if it’s just a quick stop.
🏠 **Museum (Museo de Arqueología e Historia Francisco Fonck)**
This small but well-curated museum provides a fascinating insight into the culture of the indigenous Mapuche people, the Moai statues of Rapanui, and more.
Entry costs 4500 pesos (about 30 RMB). As a museum enthusiast, I highly recommend a visit.
💰 **Casino (Casino de Viña del Mar)**
For a bit of excitement, head to Enjoy Casino, which combines a casino with a hotel, restaurants, theaters, and shows. Whether you’re a gambler or not, it’s worth checking out for the entertainment options.
### Food recommendations
Seafood in Viña del Mar is a treat, and while I didn’t visit any specific restaurant, every meal was enjoyable. The Ceviche (seafood salad) here is particularly delicious, surpassing even that in Santiago. Despite being a tourist destination, prices are quite reasonable and comparable to those in Santiago.
### Tips
🌟 **Language**: Being a popular tourist spot, many locals speak English. We even had a friendly encounter with a local who was eager to practice his Chinese with us.
🌟 **Safety**: While the area around the bus station can feel a bit chaotic, Viña del Mar is generally a safe place. Just be sure to keep your phone and other valuables secure.
