After spending weeks exploring Santiago and mingling with locals, I’ve put together a list of the best things to do in this vibrant city.
Santiago, surrounded by the Andes Mountains, is one of the most beautiful capitals in the world. It offers a rich history, lively culture, and excellent tourist infrastructure. If you’re planning a trip to Chile for hiking in Patagonia or exploring the Atacama Desert, make sure you spend a few days experiencing all that Santiago has to offer.
In just a few days, you can visit major sights, trek the Andes, cycle to vineyards for wine tastings, explore local markets, enjoy the nightlife, and much more. Here are some top recommendations:
Start at the Plaza de Armas, the city’s center since its founding in 1541, now featuring a fountain in Simon Bolivar’s honor among palm trees and benches. You can also find people playing chess, dancing, or enjoying street performances. Surrounding the plaza are historical sites like the Metropolitan Cathedral, Royal Court Palace, and Central Post Office.
Join a free walking tour, especially if you’re new in town. Tours 4 Tips offers daily tours that explore local markets and landmarks. The guides, dressed like Waldo, are knowledgeable and friendly.
Climb Santa Lucia Hill, a central city park built upon a 15 million-year-old volcano. At the entrance, you’ll see the beautiful Neptune Fountain. Trails lead you to the top, offering stunning city and mountain views.
Santiago is also home to excellent museums. Visit the Museum of National History at the Royal Court Palace and the Museum of Memory and Human Rights, which honors victims of Pinochet’s regime.
For foodies, Mercado Central is a must. The market is bustling with fresh seafood, where you can enjoy local dishes like ceviche and king crab.
Biking around Santiago is easy and enjoyable thanks to dedicated bike lanes. Companies like Huaso Bike Tours offer guided tours, covering city highlights and local culture.
Try some pisco, the popular brandy in Chile, at Chipe Libre – Républica Independiente del Pisco. They serve pisco from both Chile and Peru, and their Pisco Sour cocktail is a must-try.
Art lovers should visit the National Museum of Fine Arts and the Centro Cultural Matucana 100, and don’t miss the city’s street art, especially in neighborhoods like Bellavista.
For impressive city views, head to San Cristobal Hill. You can hike or take a cable car to the top, where a 22-meter statue of the Virgin Mary stands.
Visit La Chascona, the quirky house-museum of poet Pablo Neruda. The home, dedicated to his third wife, showcases artifacts and art collected by Neruda.
For panoramic views, go to Sky Costanera, the tallest observatory in Latin America. It’s a prime spot to watch the sunset over the city.
Explore La Moneda Palace, the seat of the president, and witness the changing of the guard ceremony.
Take a day trip to the Andes for hiking, biking, or skiing, depending on the season. Nearby spots like Provincia and Maipo Canyon are perfect for outdoor adventures.
Try some local cuisine at Emporio La Rosa, famous for its ice cream and empanadas.
Visit nearby vineyards like Cousiño Macul, just 15 km from the city center, for a wine tasting tour.
Attend local festivals like Santiago a Mil, Providencia Jazz Festival, and the International Film Festival for a taste of the city’s cultural scene.
For a day in nature, head to Cajon del Maipo, a canyon in the Andes with trekking, hot springs, and other outdoor activities.
Take a cooking class with Uncorked or Chile Cooks to learn how to make traditional Chilean dishes.
Finally, explore Bellavista, Santiago’s bohemian quarter. Enjoy its street art, markets, cafes, and vibrant nightlife.
Santiago is a dynamic city with plenty to see and do. It’s a great starting point for exploring the rest of Chile, including Patagonia and the Atacama Desert. Make sure to make the most of your time in this captivating city!