Things To Do
in Colina
Colina is a leafy suburban town just north of Santiago, set against the backdrop of the Andean foothills. It blends rural charm with growing residential neighborhoods and easy access to the capital. Life here centers on local markets, family-run eateries, and scenic drives through vineyard-laden countryside.
Visitors will find authentic Chilean hospitality and a quiet base for day trips to the Maipo Valley.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh Chilean bread and avocado. Afterward, take a stroll through the historic center of Colina, visiting the charming Plaza de Armas and admiring the colonial architecture. Don't forget to snap photos of the iconic church, Iglesia de San Vicente, that stands as a testament to the town's history.
In the afternoon, explore the local markets where you can find artisan crafts and fresh produce unique to the region. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, trying traditional Chilean dishes such as pastel de choclo or empanadas. After your meal, visit the Museo de Colina for an insightful look into the town's cultural heritage.
As the sun sets, enjoy a peaceful walk through the plaza, watching the locals gather and socialize. For dinner, choose a cozy restaurant offering local wines and delectable seafood options. End your evening with a dessert of tres leches cake, experiencing the sweet flavors of Chile.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before setting off to the nearby Parque Nacional La Campana, famous for its diverse flora and fauna. Hike the trails that lead you through lush forests and offer breathtaking panoramic views from various lookout points. Keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife, such as foxes and colorful birds, along the way.
After a morning of hiking, enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature, surrounded by the serene beauty of the park. Continue your exploration by visiting the historic Cerro La Campana, where Charles Darwin once trekked, and climb to the summit for an unforgettable vista. The afternoon sun will illuminate the surrounding valleys, making for perfect photo opportunities.
Return to Colina in the evening, where you can relax at a local café with a warm drink. Share tales of your hike with new friends or fellow travelers while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Dine at a local pizzeria, sampling delicious Chilean-style pizzas topped with fresh ingredients.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-3 |
| 🚶One-way public transit ticket | $1-2 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | $25-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to Vineyard Country: easy day trips to Maipo Valley.
- Quiet, authentic Chilean town vibe with friendly locals.
- Limited nightlife within Colina itself; more options require a trip to Santiago.
- Public transport outside the city center can be sparse; a car or rideshare helps
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
- "Recomiéndame un buen restaurante" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
- "¿Aceptan tarjetas de crédito?" - Do you accept credit cards?
Places to Visit in Colina
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide bend in the Maipo River with distant mountain silhouettes; best at sunrise or golden hour for soft light.
Rolling hills and olive groves offering expansive valley views and rural textures ideal for wide-angle landscapes.
Colorful plazas and local life with mountain backdrops; great for candid street photography at dusk.
Rustic lanes and vineyard rows along country roads; classic Chilean wine-country shots.
Food in Colina
Colina Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Flaky pastry filled with spiced meat, onions, olives, and a boiled egg; widely available at markets and bakeries.
Must-Try!
Sweetcorn and meat pie topped with a sugary corn crust; a comforting staple in Chilean homes.
A hearty stew with meat, potatoes, pumpkin, corn, and herbs; a comforting family dish.
Grilled meats served with pebre and fresh salads; common at family gatherings and patios.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market offering fresh produce, meat, and prepared foods; best visited in the morning.
Local plaza stalls with empanadas, completos, anticuchos, and coffee, ideal for a casual bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common in formal settings; friends may greet with a kiss on the cheek in informal settings. Use 'por favor' and 'gracias'; be polite, punctual for appointments, and respectful in conversation.
Safety
Tipping in Colina
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tipping 10-15% is customary if service isn’t included. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. Guides and hotel staff may expect a small tip for good service.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry and hot days with long afternoons; carry water, sun protection, and light clothing. Afternoon heat can be intense, but evenings cool off near the foothills.
Mild temperatures with colorful foliage in the hills; great for outdoor photography and walks. Light rain is possible later in the season.
Cool and wetter; layers and a waterproof jacket are essential. Some rural roads may be slippery after rain.
Mild and often breezy with blooming landscapes; ideal for outdoor activities and photography. Occasional showers can occur.
Colina at Night
Hiking in Colina
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Riverside trails that run through the Maipo valley; relatively easy with scenic river and mountain views.
Short to moderate hikes offering panoramic views of the valley and distant Andes.
Low-effort hikes along country roads beside vineyards; ideal for photography and relaxed strolls.
Airports
How to reach Colina by plane.
Santiago's main international gateway located in Pudahuel; well connected to Colina by road and public transit routes. Typical transfer times vary with traffic, but options include car, taxi, and bus/metro connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of long-time residents and newer families who commute to Santiago for work; strong community networks and schools.
Chicureo and surrounding neighborhoods attract professionals and families seeking a quieter lifestyle within reach of the city.
People drawn to the growing local amenities and access to outdoor spaces near the capital.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Chile; local matches and community leagues are common across the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Colina.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist—look for salads, vegetable stews (verdes), empanadas de verduras, grilled vegetables, and dishes labeled as vegetarian at larger eateries; you can often request sides or substitutions in most places.