San Antonio

San Antonio is a major port city of approximately 90,000 in the Valparaíso Region, 100 km west of Santiago. It is Chile's main commercial port, handling over half of the country's container trade. The city sits at the mouth of the Maipo River and has a working maritime character with several beaches and a growing tourism industry.

By Plane

Arturo Merino Benítez Airport (SCL) in Santiago is 100 km east. Buses from Santiago run hourly (1.5 hr, CLP 5,000–7,000).

By Car / Road

From Santiago, take Route 78 west for 100 km (1.25 hr). The road is paved.

The town centre is compact and walkable. Local taxis and colectivos cover the residential areas.

• Puerto de San Antonio: the container port — one of the busiest in South America.

• Plaza de Armas: the central square.

• Museo de San Antonio: a small maritime museum.

• Costanera: the seafront with views of the port and beaches.

• Beaches: Playa Llolleo and Playa Cartagena (in the neighbouring town).

• Wine tours: the nearby San Antonio Valley wine region (Leyda) produces excellent cool-climate wines.

• Fishing: the pier is a popular fishing spot.

• Restaurante El Puerto (mid-range): seafood specialities. Mains CLP 7,000–14,000.
• Cocinería La Picá (budget): empanadas and fried fish. Mains CLP 3,000–6,000.

Tap water is safe to drink. There are a few simple bars and cafés on the main square.

• Budget: Hostal San Antonio (shared CLP 10,000).
• Mid-range: Hotel Puerto (private CLP 35,000–50,000).

• Mercado local: a small market selling fresh produce and basic goods.
• Almacenes de la plaza: grocery stores for daily needs.

• Cartagena (5 km north, 10 min): beach resort.
• Valparaíso (60 km north, 45 min): historic port city.
• Santo Domingo (15 km south, 15 min): quiet beach town.
• Leyda Valley: wine route with cool-climate Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc.