San Fernando

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with San Fernando's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Plaza de Armas, where you can enjoy fresh pastries and coffee from local bakeries. Stroll around the square to admire the beautiful colonial architecture and take photos of the iconic church. Engage with local vendors selling crafts and artisanal goods to get a taste of the region's culture.

afternoon
:

Head over to the Museo Histórico de San Fernando to delve into the city's rich history and heritage. The museum showcases artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the region, from indigenous cultures to modern times. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a nearby café, sampling traditional Chilean dishes.

evening
:

As the sun sets, make your way to a local restaurant for dinner, where you can savor exquisite Chilean wines paired with fresh seafood. After your meal, take a leisurely walk in the nearby Parque de los Poetas, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and beautiful gardens. End your evening by visiting a local bar to experience the vibrant nightlife and enjoy live music.

day 2
Wine Tasting in the Colchagua Valley
morning
:

Embark on a scenic drive to the nearby Colchagua Valley, known for its world-class wineries. Start your wine tasting journey at one of the prestigious vineyards, where you can learn about the winemaking process and the unique terroir of the region. Enjoy a guided tour of the vineyard, followed by a tasting session of their finest wines.

afternoon
:

Continue your wine adventure by visiting a second winery, where you can indulge in a gourmet lunch paired with exceptional local wines. Take your time to appreciate the beautiful landscapes of rolling hills and grapevines that stretch as far as the eye can see. Engage with the winemakers and ask questions about their craft and the different varietals produced in the valley.

evening
:

Return to San Fernando in the early evening and unwind after a day of indulgence. Choose a cozy restaurant for dinner, where the focus is on locally sourced ingredients and traditional Chilean cuisine. Share stories from your day over a glass of wine, reminiscing about the flavors and experiences you enjoyed.

day 3
Cultural Day at Local Markets
morning
:

Visit the San Fernando Mercado Municipal, where the vibrant colors and aromas will awaken your senses. Browse through stalls brimming with fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local delicacies. Take time to chat with the vendors and learn about the products and cultural significance behind them.

afternoon
:

After exploring the market, head to a workshop where you can learn to make traditional Chilean crafts, such as pottery or textiles. This hands-on experience will connect you with local artisans and allow you to appreciate the skill involved in their work. Enjoy a light lunch at a nearby café, sampling local favorites like empanadas or pastel de choclo.

evening
:

As evening falls, attend a cultural event or performance showcasing traditional Chilean music and dance. Many local venues host shows that celebrate the region's rich folklore and artistic heritage. After the performance, enjoy a late dinner at a restaurant known for its lively atmosphere and delightful ambiance.

day 4
Mountaineering and Nature Walks
morning
:

Gear up for an adventurous day of hiking in the nearby Andes Mountains, where breathtaking views await. Start with a guided trek along well-marked trails, surrounded by diverse flora and fauna. The fresh mountain air and stunning landscapes will invigorate your spirit and set the stage for an unforgettable day.

afternoon
:

Pause for a packed lunch in a picturesque spot, where you can take in the panoramic views of the valleys below. After lunch, continue your hike, exploring hidden waterfalls and scenic vistas. Keep an eye out for native wildlife, such as condors and guanacos, adding an exciting element to your trek.

evening
:

Return to San Fernando, where you can unwind and share stories of your outdoor adventures over dinner. Choose a restaurant that specializes in local cuisine, perhaps trying a hearty stew or grilled meats. As the day winds down, take a moment to reflect on the beauty of nature you've just experienced.

day 5
Relaxing Day at Termas de Chillán
morning
:

Set off early for a day of relaxation at the hot springs of Termas de Chillán, nestled in the mountains. Upon arrival, soak in the natural thermal pools while enjoying the stunning mountain scenery. This tranquil environment sets the perfect tone for a day of unwinding and rejuvenation.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the on-site restaurant, where you can indulge in dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. Afterward, continue to explore the various hot springs and wellness treatments available, such as massages and mud baths. Spend the afternoon lounging by the pools, taking in the serene surroundings and perhaps reading a book.

evening
:

As the day comes to an end, enjoy a final soak in the thermal waters as the sun sets behind the mountains. Return to San Fernando in the evening, feeling relaxed and refreshed. Treat yourself to a light dinner at a local eatery, savoring the flavors of the day.

day 6
Adventure in La Campana National Park
morning
:

Begin your day with an excursion to La Campana National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. Start with a guided hike to the summit of Cerro La Campana, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The diverse ecosystems and unique flora will make this morning an unforgettable experience.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch at the summit, taking time to appreciate the beauty of nature all around you. Afterward, descend the mountain and explore some of the park’s other trails that showcase its unique wildlife and plant species. Keep your camera handy to capture the vibrant colors and picturesque landscapes.

evening
:

Return to San Fernando in the evening, where you can wind down with a hearty dinner at a local restaurant. Share your day's adventures with your travel companions, reminiscing about the stunning views and the beauty of the park. End your evening with a leisurely stroll through the town, taking in the night lights and local ambiance.

day 7
Exploring Local Art Galleries
morning
:

Visit some of the charming local art galleries that showcase the talents of Chilean artists. As you explore, take the time to appreciate the diverse styles and mediums, from traditional paintings to contemporary sculptures. Engage with gallery owners or artists, learning about their inspirations and creative processes.

afternoon
:

After immersing yourself in the local art scene, enjoy lunch at a nearby bistro that celebrates local cuisine. Spend the afternoon visiting artisan workshops, where you can observe craftspeople at work and perhaps try your hand at creating your own piece of art. This hands-on experience will deepen your appreciation for the artistic community in San Fernando.

evening
:

As evening approaches, attend an art opening or exhibition if available, immersing yourself in the local cultural scene. Enjoy light refreshments while mingling with artists and other art enthusiasts. Cap off your day with a late dinner at a restaurant that features local art, creating a perfect blend of food and culture.

day 8
Culinary Delights and Cooking Class
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to a local market to gather fresh ingredients for a cooking class. Meet your chef, who will guide you through the process of selecting the best produce, meats, and spices that reflect the flavors of Chile. This interactive experience sets the stage for a day filled with culinary delights.

afternoon
:

Join a cooking class where you'll learn to prepare traditional Chilean dishes, such as cazuela or paila marina. Under the guidance of your chef, practice essential cooking techniques while engaging with fellow food enthusiasts. Enjoy the fruits of your labor by sitting down to a delicious meal, savoring the flavors of your creations.

evening
:

After your culinary adventure, take the time to relax and reflect on the skills you've learned while enjoying a glass of local wine. Consider visiting a nearby café to indulge in dessert, perhaps trying traditional treats like alfajores or torta de mil hojas. End your evening with a leisurely stroll through the town, enjoying the local atmosphere.

day 9
Outdoor Adventure and Stargazing
morning
:

Embark on a thrilling outdoor adventure such as mountain biking or horseback riding in the surrounding countryside. Feel the adrenaline rush as you navigate trails that offer stunning views of the Andes and the lush valleys below. This morning’s activity will invigorate your spirit and connect you with nature.

afternoon
:

After your outdoor adventure, take a break with a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. Spend the afternoon exploring nearby trails or visiting local farms to learn about traditional agricultural practices. Engage with friendly locals who can share stories about the land and its history.

evening
:

As night falls, prepare for an unforgettable stargazing experience in the clear skies above San Fernando. Join a guided tour that takes you to the best spots for observing constellations and celestial events. Enjoy hot drinks and snacks while marveling at the beauty of the universe, making for a perfect ending to your adventure-filled day.

Discover San Fernando

Read more in our San Fernando 2025 Travel Guide.

San Fernando Travel Guide