A long layover in Santiago is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Comodoro Arturo Merino BenÃtez International Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 100 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at SCL:
First, verify that you can enter Chile — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Centropuerto Bus / Metro takes about 100 minutes into Santiago, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — CLP is the currency here. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
What to See and Do in Santiago
For a layover visit to Santiago, we’d suggest Plaza de Armas and Barrio Lastarria. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
If you’d rather stay inside SCL — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- LATAM VIP Lounge
- Dufry Duty Free SCL
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
The most straightforward way into Santiago is the Centropuerto Bus / Metro, which takes about 100 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 120 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Centropuerto Bus / Metro is usually the smarter call.
Food Worth Trying
In Santiago
If you make it into town, Bocanáriz is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Liguria.
Inside SCL
If you’re staying in the terminal, La Cava del Aeropuerto is your main option. Johnny Rockets SCL works too if you want something quick.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Santiago might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$7 USD
- A meal: ~$14 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$31 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Staying Connected
WiFi at SCL should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Chile and you’re good to go.
Bag Storage Near SCL
Luggage storage is available at Terminal 1, Level 1, Hall E (Luggage Storage). Drop your bags off early so you can explore hands-free.
Alternatively, third-party services like Bounce or Stasher can connect you with storage locations closer to wherever you’re headed in Santiago.
Sleep & Lounge Options at SCL
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at SCL, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Santiago genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.