My husband and I will be arriving at 9:00 am in Santiago on Christmas Day. I assume absolutely everything will be closed, but are there any attractions you could suggest since we've never been there before? Also, what is the easiest way to get to Valpo? And if we rent a car is it possible to visit the smaller wineries on our own, without a reservation? Thanks for any advice!

Just about everything but hotel restaurants will be closed on the 25th. No vineyards will be open. If you can afford it, a car and driver/guide is a better way to visit the vineyards of Casablanca. If you drive yourselves, the driver won't be able to taste wines. Most tourists visiting Chile are Spanish or Portuguese speakers, so if you want a tour in English it is best to book. Sometimes the person showing you around handles Spanish and English on the same tour. Also, a car is no advantage in Valparaíso, which is a walking city. Parking is difficult to find and the layout of the city can be confusing. Be sure to take a walking tour in both Valparaíso and Santiago..