The best things to do in Santiago, Chile‘s vibrant capital city, are many and varied. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or just soaking up the local atmosphere, there’s something for everyone in Santiago.
Visit the Centro Histórico
The Centro Histórico, or Historic Center, is the heart of Santiago and the perfect place to start exploring the city. Here you’ll find a mix of colonial-era architecture and modern buildings, as well as a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Some of the highlights of the Centro Histórico include the Cathedral Metropolitana, the Central Market, and the Palacio de la Real Audiencia.
Cerro Santa Lucia
Cerro Santa Lucia is a hilltop park in the center of Santiago that offers stunning views of the city. The park is home to a castle, a lookout tower, and several monuments, as well as a network of paths and staircases that wind through the hillside. Visitors can also take a cable car to the top of the hill for an even more panoramic view.
Barrio Bellavista
Barrio Bellavista is Santiago’s bohemian quarter, known for its colorful street art, lively nightlife, and trendy restaurants and bars. The neighborhood is also home to the Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Contemporary Art.
Parque Metropolitano
Parque Metropolitano is Santiago’s largest park and a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The park is home to several lakes, a zoo, a botanical garden, and an amusement park. Visitors can also take a cable car to the top of Cerro San Cristobal for more great views of Santiago.
Visit Valparaiso
Valparaiso is a coastal city located about an hour and a half west of Santiago. It is known for its colorful houses and street art, as well as its many hills and funicular railways. Visitors can also take a boat tour to see the city from the water.
Visit Vina del Mar
Vina del Mar is another coastal city located about an hour and a half west of Santiago. It is known for its wide beaches and beautiful gardens. Visitors can also take a trip to the nearby city of Reñaca, which is known for its nightlife and surf scene.
Try Chilean Cuisine
Chilean cuisine is a delicious blend of Spanish, indigenous, and immigrant influences. Some must-try dishes include empanadas, seafood, and asado (barbecue). For a true taste of Chilean culture, head to one of Santiago’s many traditional “picanterias,” where you can sample a variety of local specialties.
Wine Tasting
Chile is home to some of the world’s best wines, and Santiago is the perfect place to sample them. There are several wine regions within easy reach of the city, including the Casablanca and Colchagua valleys. Visitors can take day trips to visit wineries and taste wines.
Shopping
Santiago is a shopper’s paradise, with everything from high-end designer boutiques to traditional markets. The Centro Histórico is a great place to find crafts and souvenirs, while the upscale neighborhoods of Providencia and Las Condes offer a wide variety of high-end shops and malls. The popular street markets like the Mercado Central, Persa Bio Bio and Feria de Los Dominicos are also great places to find unique and locally made products at a good price.
Relax in a Spa
Santiago offers a wide variety of spas and wellness centers where you can relax and rejuvenate. Many of these facilities offer traditional Chilean treatments such as hot stone massages and mud baths. Some of the most popular spas in Santiago include the Termas de Chillán and the Termas de Cauquenes.
Experience Chilean Nightlife
Santiago’s nightlife is vibrant and varied, with something to suit every taste. The Bellavista neighborhood is known for its lively bars and clubs, while the upscale neighborhoods of Providencia and Las Condes offer a more sophisticated scene. Visitors can also check out traditional Chilean music and dance performances at venues like the Teatro Municipal and the Centro Cultural Palacio de la Moneda.
Take a Day Trip
Santiago is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes and charming towns, making it the perfect base for exploring the surrounding area. Some popular day trips from Santiago include visits to the nearby towns of Valparaiso, Vina del Mar and the Andes Mountains.
In conclusion, Santiago is a city that offers something for everyone, from its rich history and cultural heritage, to its vibrant nightlife and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in art, food, shopping, or just soaking up the local atmosphere, Santiago has something for everyone. With this list of things to do, you are sure to have a memorable trip to Santiago.
