While Santiago buzzes with culture and commerce, there’s a quieter, more peaceful side of Chile waiting just beyond the city. Whether you crave soothing hot springs, serene lakeside retreats, or charming villages brimming with local flavor, the surroundings of Santiago offer perfect escapes for relaxation seekers.
In this guide, we explore the best relaxing day trips from Santiago, highlighting thermal spas, scenic lakes, and picturesque villages that promise a refreshing break from the capital’s energy.

Nestled deep in the Cajón del Maipo region, about two hours from Santiago, Termas de Colina offers a truly rejuvenating experience. These natural thermal baths are located at 3,500 meters above sea level, with steaming pools layered along a hillside and stunning views of the surrounding snow-capped Andes.

The waters are rich in minerals, reputed to relieve stress, improve circulation, and soothe skin conditions. The remote, rustic setting adds to the charm, making it a perfect choice for travelers seeking a natural spa experience close to Santiago.

Travel Tips:

• Best visited between October and April when access roads are open. 
• Bring a swimsuit, a towel, and flip-flops.
• Entry Fee: Around CLP 10,000 ($11 USD) per person.

For those who prefer calm waters over mountain trails, Lago Rapel is an excellent day trip option. Located about 140 kilometers southwest of Santiago, this large reservoir is popular for boating, fishing, and lakeside picnicking. Despite its popularity, it remains peaceful on weekdays, offering visitors a serene environment to unwind.

Lago Rapel is dotted with small resorts and rental cottages where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch, sunbathe by the water, or rent a kayak to explore the shoreline.

Travel Tips:

• Weekdays are quieter than weekends.
• Many lakeside restaurants offer fresh fish and Chilean specialties.
• Consider renting a kayak or paddleboard for a relaxing afternoon.

Less than an hour’s drive west of Santiago, Pomaire is a charming village best known for its traditional pottery and hearty Chilean cuisine. Walking along its narrow streets, visitors find countless artisan shops offering hand-crafted ceramics, from cookware to decorative pieces.

Pomaire also invites visitors to slow down and savor a traditional Chilean meal—don’t miss the famous empanadas de kilo, massive stuffed pastries unique to the village.

Travel Tips:

• Pomaire is most lively on weekends and public holidays. 
• Bring cash, as some artisan shops do not accept cards.
• It’s a great place to buy unique souvenirs.

For a more rugged and wild hot springs experience, head to Termas Valle de Colina, located close to San José de Maipo. This cluster of mineral-rich pools, naturally heated by volcanic activity, offers a back-to-nature spa day with extraordinary mountain views.

Visitors can dip between warm and hot pools, with temperatures reaching up to 50°C (122°F), perfect for soothing sore muscles and stress. The raw, open-air environment makes it a favorite among nature enthusiasts.

Travel Tips:

• Pack layers; temperatures can change quickly in the Andes. 
• Visiting during the week avoids the weekend crowds.
• Entry Fee: Approximately CLP 8,000 ($9 USD).

Although slightly farther (about 1 hour and 45 minutes from Santiago), Isla Negra offers both cultural and natural relaxation. This small coastal village is home to one of poet Pablo Neruda’s most famous residences, now a museum filled with maritime artifacts and fascinating collections.

After exploring the museum, visitors can stroll along the rugged Pacific coastline, watch the waves crash dramatically against black stone beaches, and enjoy fresh seafood at nearby restaurants.

Travel Tips:

• Purchase museum tickets in advance during the summer months.
• Visit the beach early in the morning for solitude.
• Combine Isla Negra with a stop in nearby Algarrobo for a full day of coastal charm.

Located just 45 minutes from Santiago, Pirque is an idyllic countryside destination perfect for wine lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Home to the famous Concha y Toro winery, Pirque offers not only vineyard tours but also wide, open spaces ideal for relaxed walks, picnics, and appreciating rural Chilean life.

Beyond wine tasting, Pirque is known for its local markets, artisan crafts, and breathtaking views of the surrounding Andes foothills.

Travel Tips:

• Book winery tours early, especially during harvest season (March-April).
• Explore the Pirque Plaza for local food stands and crafts.
• Some vineyards offer outdoor picnic areas for guests.

From natural hot springs to peaceful lakes and charming artisan villages, Santiago's surroundings offer countless opportunities for a truly relaxing day trip. Whether you choose to soak in thermal waters at Cajón del Maipo, savor fresh seafood along the Pacific coast, or discover hidden cultural gems in picturesque towns, the region promises unforgettable moments of tranquility.
Take a break from Santiago’s fast pace, reconnect with nature and tradition, and enjoy the slower, more beautiful side of Chile—just a short drive away.