Santiago Changing of Guard and Historic Downtown Private Tour

What's included

What you'll see and do

1. Discover Plaza de la Ciudadanía, a grand civic space in Santiago that stretches from the southern façade of La Moneda Palace to Avenida Libertador Bernardo O’Higgins. Redesigned in 2006 as part of Chile’s Bicentennial Project, the plaza features elegant water mirrors, the monumental Bicentennial Flag, and the underground Centro Cultural La Moneda, which hosts exhibitions and cultural events. It also houses the Altar de la Patria, where the remains of national hero Bernardo O’Higgins rest, alongside statues honoring Chile’s independence leaders. This plaza serves as a powerful symbol of Chile’s history, identity, and civic pride.

   5 minutes here

2. At the heart of Santiago’s civic center, you will witness the impressive Changing of the Guard ceremony at La Moneda Palace, Chile’s presidential headquarters. This colorful and time-honored tradition features an elaborate parade of soldiers dressed in immaculate uniforms, accompanied by a live military band playing traditional Chilean marches. You will see the new guard march into position with precision drills, flag presentations, and synchronized movements — a living piece of Chilean history that dates back to the 19th century. As the guards switch duties, the atmosphere is filled with pageantry and national pride, offering a perfect glimpse into the country's military customs and political heritage. You'll not only experience the ceremony up close, but also learn about the significance of La Moneda Palace itself — from its origins as a colonial mint to its central role during the 1973 coup d'état and its restoration as a symbol of democracy.

   45 minutes here · Admission not included

3. Located at the heart of Santiago, Plaza de la Constitución is a historically significant square, home to the La Moneda Palace, the seat of Chile's government. This grand plaza is a symbol of the country’s political life, where important events and demonstrations have taken place. Surrounded by beautiful neoclassical buildings, the plaza offers a peaceful space to reflect on Chile’s rich history and political evolution. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in the nation's heritage.

   5 minutes here

4. Santiago Stock Exchange

   Founded in 1893, the Santiago Stock Exchange is housed in a stunning French-style building, symbolizing Chile’s economic boom during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It's still one of Latin America’s most important financial centers, and its elegant architecture highlights the city's historical ties to global markets.

   Pass by without stopping

5. Paseo Nueva York

   Step into a hidden corner of Santiago that feels like a slice of Manhattan. Paseo Nueva York is a short, elegant street lined with early 20th-century neoclassical buildings, reflecting Santiago’s ambition to modernize and mirror European and American cities at the time. It’s a quiet, atmospheric spot that contrasts sharply with the city's busy downtown.

   5 minutes here

6. San Francisco Church

   The oldest standing building in Santiago, the Church of San Francisco dates back to 1618. This colonial-era landmark survived major earthquakes and holds a rich collection of religious art, offering a glimpse into the city’s Spanish colonial roots and resilience.

   5 minutes here

7. One of Santiago’s busiest pedestrian streets, Paseo Estado reflects the city’s commercial heart, lined with shops, historic buildings, and vibrant street life. It’s a lively connection between colonial-era landmarks and the modern city.

   Pass by without stopping

8. Built in the early 1600s, the Church of St. Augustine is one of Santiago’s oldest and most historic churches. Known for its baroque architecture and the famous statue of Cristo de Mayo — a crucifix tied to a legendary earthquake story — it remains a vital symbol of the city’s religious and cultural heritage.

   5 minutes here

9. Museo de Santiago - Casa Colorada

   Built in 1769, Casa Colorada is one of the best-preserved colonial mansions in Santiago. With its iconic red façade, it once housed important figures of Chile’s independence movement and now stands as a symbol of the city's colonial past.

   Pass by without stopping

10. Plaza de Armas

    Founded in 1541, Plaza de Armas is the historic heart of Santiago. It has been the city’s main public space for centuries, surrounded by iconic buildings and full of life with street artists, performers, and locals.

    10 minutes here

11. Metropolitan Cathedral (Catedral Metropolitana)

    The Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago, built between the 18th and 19th centuries, is a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture and the seat of the Catholic Church in Chile. Its richly decorated interior reflects centuries of history and resilience.

    5 minutes here

12. Ex Congreso Nacional

    Once home to Chile’s National Congress, this grand neoclassical building dates back to the 19th century. Surrounded by peaceful gardens, it symbolizes Chile’s political history and remains a striking example of the country’s republican architecture.

    Pass by without stopping

13. National Museum of Fine Arts

    Housed in a beautiful Beaux-Arts building from 1910, the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes holds one of Latin America’s oldest art collections. It’s a cultural treasure, blending Chilean and international art across centuries.

    Pass by without stopping

14. Cerro Santa Lucia

    Once a rocky outcrop and now a lush urban park, Santa Lucía Hill is where Santiago was officially founded in 1541. Its beautiful stairways, fountains, and panoramic views make it a must-visit spot in the city center.

    20 minutes here

Where it starts and ends

Before you book

Cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Languages

pt, en, es

Ticket

Mobile Only

Runs on

Every day

Group size

Up to 10 travelers per booking

Operated by

Unplanned Detours

Know before you go

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• As the Changing of the Guard is a government ceremony, it is subject to change or cancellation without prior notice due to official government events or special protocols.
• To ensure a truly personalized experience, our tours are limited to small groups. For parties of 10 or more, we are happy make arrangements to maintain the same high-quality attention.

Photos

Traveler reviews

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