After landing at Santiago Airport (SCL), also known as Nuevo Pudahuel or Arturo Merino Benítez Airport, there are two means of transport to get to the city centre of Santiago, either by taxi or by bus. A Santiago Airport Taxi ride usually takes around 25 minutes under normal traffic conditions and the prices can range from €16 (12,000 CLP) to €40 (30,000 CLP) depending on the taxi provider, the time of day and the type of taxi you choose to take; metered or a fixed price. There are two bus lines running to central Santiago stations. When taking the bus, the travel time can range between 35 minutes to 45 minutes depending on the traffic. Both buses, the Centropuerto and the TurBus, tickets cost €2.50 (1,900 CLP) for a single journey and €4.50 (3,400 CLP) for a return journey. Welcome Pickups offers meet and greet services and a friendly introduction to Santiago at the same price as a regular taxi. Click here to see the cost.
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Transfer Options from Santiago Airport to City Centre
Welcome Pickups has a Net Safety Score of 99 of 100
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20 minute gap between transfers
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Regular Car Sanitisation
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Contactless ride
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Sanitiser in every car
Comparison of the options
| OPTION | PRICE | DURATION | AVAILABILITY | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | €25 | 25min | 24/7 | |
| Welcome Pickups | €27 | 25min | 24/7 | Book |
| Book | ||||
| Bus | €5 | 40min | 24/7 | |
How to get from Santiago Airport to the City Centre by taxi
There are two taxi options to choose from when travelling from Santiago Airport to the city centre. The first is Vía Controlada, which the airport has newly introduced, and controls taxi bookings and pick-up systems established at the airport, this service helps visitors avoid scams. The other option is to take a regular taxi. A metered taxi is black-and-yellow, whereas a blue taxi operated by Vía Controlada, has a touristic set price. Both options run 24/7. A Santiago Airport Taxi ride usually takes around 25 minutes and the daytime fare is approximately €25 (19,000 CLP) under normal traffic.
Taxi fare from Santiago Airport to the city centre
Under normal traffic, a ride from Santiago Airport to the city centre of Santiago will cost around €25 (19,000 CLP). Prices will vary according to the time of day, traffic and your final destination. The fare can go up to €40 (30,000 CLP) if the roads are busy.
(05:00–24:00)
(00:00–05:00)
Convenience
Taking a taxi from Santiago Airport to the city centre of Santiago is definitely the safest and fastest travel method in comparison to taking public transportation. Moreover, you don't have to worry about your luggage and have a door-to-door service. However, always make sure to travel with an authorised taxi provider by using the Vía Controlada system at the airport.
Editor’s Note
Beware of the persistent unauthorised drivers at Santiago Airport and always travel with an official provider. There have been cases of people being followed around by unauthorised drivers, illegally operating at the airport. It is recommended that you avoid speaking to them altogether.
Useful Tips
How to get from Santiago Airport to the City Centre by bus
There are two 24/7 buses connecting Santiago Airport to the city centre, the TurBus and the Centropuerto. The TurBus terminates at the Santiago Central Station, Terminal San Borja, passing by the city centre metro and bus stations, and runs every 20 minutes from 05:00 to 00:00 and every 60 minutes during the night. A single ticket costs €2.50 (1,900 CLP) and a return ticket costs €4.50 (3,400 CLP). The Centropuerto bus terminates at Los Héroes, following the same route as the TurBus, and runs every 10 minutes from 06:00 to 23:30 and every 30 minutes during the night service.
How much are the buses from Santiago Airport to the city centre?
All single bus tickets regardless of the company cost €2.50 (1,900 CLP). Similarly, return tickets cost €4.50 (3,400 CLP). You can buy your tickets, both for Centropuerto and TurBus, on the first floor of the Airport Public Hall, at the desks or directly from the bus driver on board the bus.
Cost
€2.50
Trip Duration
40 Min
The waiting time can significantly vary depending on the time of the day.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
Both buses run on a 24/7 basis, everyday of the year.
Where do I get them from?
Convenience
The only big advantage when travelling by bus, is that buses are much cheaper than taxis. Not only is carrying around large luggage challenging, you need to be vigilant as there have been cases of mishandled items during bus journeys. Also, if you arrive late at night, you may have to wait up to 60 minutes for a bus, keeping in mind that you will have to finish your journey by foot or taxi as the bus route has specific stops.
Editor’s Note
Luggage space can be significantly limited after the arrival of international flights. Make sure that your luggage is safely stored before boarding the bus.
Useful Tips
Welcome Pickups transfer
Book a trained, English-speaking taxi driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular cab from the line
If you feel more relaxed knowing that somebody is waiting for you, you may as well book a Welcome Pickups transfer. As soon as you arrive at the airport you will be greeted by your driver. He will be waiting for you at the terminal of your arrival with a sign that has your name on it. Your driver will help you out with your luggage and together you will make your way to the vehicle. While he is driving you to your accommodation, the driver can give you some tips and recommendations on what to do during your holidays in Santiago. Our drivers are hand-picked and speak fluent English. No need to worry about miscommunication issues that you may face with the local taxi drivers regarding your destination. Relax and enjoy your ride.
Read morePrices
DAYTIME
€27NIGHTTIME
€27PRICES FOR
Sedan Car
4 pax, 4 pieces of luggage
Frequently asked questions
Do you usually tip taxi drivers in Santiago, Chile?
You are not required to tip taxi drivers in Santiago or any other places in Chile. You are welcome to round up the fee if you wish to.
How much is a taxi from Santiago Airport to the city centre?
The average taxi fee from Santiago Airport to city centre locations is €25 (19,000 CLP).
Is there a metro station at Santiago Airport (SCL)?
No, the Santiago metro network does not reach the airport, but it is accessible when getting to the city centre by bus or taxi.
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