Getting Around Santiago: Walkability, Public Transit & Biking

Santiago is a highly walkable city, especially within neighborhoods like Bellas Artes, Lastarria, and Providencia, where travelers can find a rich array of cafes, restaurants, cultural sites, and coworking spaces. These areas offer pedestrian-friendly layouts that make it easy to explore on foot. While a few neighborhoods may require a longer stroll or a short public transit ride to reach specific destinations, most essentials are conveniently accessible for those who prefer walking. The city is also actively working to enhance walkability by converting more road space into pedestrian zones.

Travelers will appreciate Santiago's efficient public transportation system, with a modern Metro network that spans across the city and an integrated bus service, the Transantiago. The Metro's multiple lines facilitate access to a wide range of destinations, complemented by buses that cover areas beyond the metro's reach. The unified payment system enhances user convenience, making it seamless to transfer between buses and metros. Though buses may be slower than the Metro, they expand transit coverage, making nearly every corner of the city reachable for explorers and digital nomads alike.

Santiago is on a path to becoming more bike-friendly, with ongoing expansions to its network of bike lanes, particularly in accessible areas like Providencia. The city's BikeSantiago sharing program adds to the convenience for cyclists. However, certain neighborhoods still present challenges due to uneven terrain and traffic. Despite these hurdles, cycling is a practical mode of transportation for both short errands and leisurely exploration, thanks to the growing emphasis on enhancing cycling infrastructure and promoting eco-friendly travel.