Money & Currency
Chilean Peso (CLP)
The Chilean Peso is the national currency. Exchange rate: approx. 1€ ≈ 1,000 CLP (fluctuates significantly). The high numbers can be confusing at first — just divide by 1,000, and you have roughly the Euro value.
Coins: 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, 500 Pesos. Bills: 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000 Pesos.
Withdrawing Money & Paying
- ATMs (Cajeros): Everywhere in cities. BancoEstado, Santander, and BCI have the densest network. Limit usually 200,000 CLP per withdrawal. Fees: Most Chilean banks charge a fee of about 5,000 CLP per withdrawal — BancoEstado ATMs are the cheapest.
- Credit Cards: Accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. Visa and Mastercard work almost everywhere. In small shops, markets, and rural areas: cash only!
- Currency Exchange Offices (Casas de Cambio): In Santiago (especially on Agustinas Street) and tourist spots. Better rate than at the airport.
Money-Saving Tips
- Menú del día for lunch (5,000–8,000 CLP for starter + main course + drink)
- Wine in supermarkets instead of in restaurants (excellent quality from 3,000 CLP)
- Long-distance buses instead of domestic flights
- Free hiking trails in national parks
- DKB or N26 credit card with fee-free withdrawals
💡 Tipp
Tipping (Propina) is customary in Chile: 10% in restaurants (often added as "servicio" on the bill — check if it's already included!). For guides and drivers: 2,000–5,000 CLP. No tip is needed in simple eateries and for street food.