San Antonio

San Antonio is a commercial port about 100 kilometres west of Santiago, Chile's capital. Most passengers use it as a starting point for the city. Santiago has a mix of modern towers and colonial buildings around the Plaza de Armas. The Mercado Central, a cast-iron market hall from 1872, is known for its seafood restaurants. Cerro San Cristóbal has a hilltop park with views of the city and the Andes. Valparaíso, about 30 minutes north of the port, is a hillside city of colourful houses, street art, and funicular elevators. It has a bohemian reputation and a UNESCO-listed historic quarter. Viña del Mar, next door, has a long beachfront and manicured gardens. Wine country in the Casablanca Valley is within easy reach for a half-day tour. Chilean peso is the currency. Buses from San Antonio run to all three cities, and organised tours are available from the port.