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SCL Layover Ideas Santiago Arturo Benitez Airport Layover Guide

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Top 5 Layover Ideas for Santiago Arturo Benitez Airport

Long layovers can be a drag, but not at the Santiago Arturo Benitez Airport (SCL)! This airport, nestled in the capital city of Chile, has a plethora of activities to keep you entertained during your wait. Here are the top 5 layover ideas that you can indulge in, right within the airport premises or a short distance away.

1. Explore the Airport

Start your layover by exploring the Santiago Arturo Benitez Airport. Visit the Tourist Information desk located on the first level inside International Arrivals. Open from 8:30am-5:30pm, the desk can provide you with valuable information about the airport and the city. You can also enjoy the various shops and restaurants within the airport.

2. Visit the City Center

Santiago's city center is just about a 30-minute drive from the airport. You can spend a few hours exploring the city's rich history, culture, and cuisine. Visit the Plaza de Armas, the heart of the city, or the San Cristobal Hill for a panoramic view of Santiago.

3. Relax at the Airport Lounge

If you prefer a more relaxed layover, head over to one of the airport's lounges. With comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and a selection of food and beverages, you can unwind and recharge before your next flight.

4. Try Local Cuisine

Don't miss out on the opportunity to try Chilean cuisine during your layover. The airport offers a variety of dining options where you can sample local dishes like empanadas, pastel de choclo, and mote con huesillo.

5. Visit a Vineyard

If you have enough time, consider visiting one of the nearby vineyards. Chile is famous for its wines, and a tour of a vineyard can be a great way to experience this aspect of the country. You can taste some of the finest wines and learn about the wine-making process.

Helpful Tips & Resources

Need help navigating your way through an unfamiliar airport? Look no further than iFly.com for expert tips and advice. Here are some helpful tips to help you travel stress-free through SCL Airport:

  • Don't let heavy bags slow you down! Make use of our airport's complimentary baggage carts, available for all travelers in the baggage claim area.
  • If you have some time before your departure, relax, grab a bite at one of SCL's restaurants, peruse the shops, or jump on the free internet and surf galore!
  • If you are flying in business or first class (or are a member), check out where the airline club lounges are located.
  • Once you have passed through security, you can use the airport map to find your gate, as well as the various restaurants and shops that are available on your route.
  • Surf to your heart's content. Jump on Santiago Arturo Benitez airport's internet (free!)
  • For those (dreaded) early-morning flights, consider one of the airport hotels on or near SCL to spend the night prior to your flight. In many cases your parking for the trip's duration is free!
  • Have a flight arriving and want a fast way to get to your destination? Here are a few taxi and limo airport service providers that service the airport.

Nearby Attractions for an Extended Layover

If you have an extended layover at Santiago Arturo Benitez Airport (SCL), consider venturing a bit further to explore some of the nearby attractions. Here are a few ideas for activities that can be accomplished within a 12-48 hour layover.

1. Explore Valparaiso

Just a two-hour drive from the airport, Valparaiso is a vibrant port city known for its steep funiculars and colorful, clifftop homes. Spend a day wandering through its bohemian neighborhoods, visit the house of poet Pablo Neruda, and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many local restaurants.

2. Visit the Maipo Valley

For wine lovers, a trip to the Maipo Valley is a must. Located just an hour's drive from the airport, this region is known for its exquisite Cabernet Sauvignon wines. Spend the day touring vineyards, tasting wines, and enjoying the stunning mountainous scenery.

3. Hike in the Andes Mountains

If you're a nature enthusiast, take advantage of Chile's stunning landscapes by heading to the Andes Mountains. There are numerous hiking trails suitable for all levels of fitness and experience, and the views are simply breathtaking. Make sure to check the weather and trail conditions before you head out.

4. Visit the Coastal Town of Viña del Mar

Known as the "Garden City", Viña del Mar is a beautiful coastal town just a short drive from Santiago. Enjoy the sandy beaches, visit the famous Flower Clock, or take a stroll along the bustling Avenida San Martín with its many shops and restaurants.

5. Discover Chile's History at the National Museum of Natural History

Located in Santiago's Quinta Normal Park, the National Museum of Natural History is a great place to learn about Chile's diverse flora, fauna, and geology. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions covering a wide range of topics. It's a great way to spend a few hours, especially if you have kids in tow.

Updated on: November 22, 2023