Discover here in this post what to do in Santiago-Chile, a charming capital surrounded by attractions. Find out which are the most sought after places by tourists and how to discover this giant city.
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Capital of Chile: Santiago
Santiago is the capital of Chile and considered the largest city in the country.
Surrounded by the snow-covered Andes, it impresses tourists before they land from the plane, as the view from above is very beautiful.
Santiago's historic center
Santigo is built by a lot of history and culture, the city has traces in every place you look, for that reason, it's a good idea to start exploring the capital.
Another good reason is to take advantage of the center to make your exchange and secure the local currency.
Plaza de Armas
Considered the historic center of Santiago, having its origins in 1541 as a military training camp, over time it developed and became the symbol of the city.
With a tree-lined square surrounded by buildings full of stories and monuments such as the one dedicated to Pedro de Valdivia (founder of the city.
What will surprise you is the organization and how clean the city is, especially when it comes to a big city, it is a great example!
Metropolitan Cathedral
It is the seat of the Archdiocese of Santiago, being considered the main Roman Catholic temple in the country, inaugurated in 1775.
Even if you don't sympathize with this religion, it's nice to know and marvel at the architectural details of the place. The cathedral, together with the Archbishop's Palace, are architecturally considered National Monuments of Chile.
Post Office Building
The museum was opened in 1949, with the name “Post and Telegraph Museum”, it has 5 exhibition halls with many letters, stamps, stamps and much more.
It is one of the National Historic Monuments of the country, along with the Cabildo (City of Santiago) and the Royal Court (National Historic Museum) buildings.
Paseo Ahumada
Discover this busy downtown street, it is pedestrian only.
Walking is the easiest way to get to know the places and this street will allow you to see the buildings, shops and restaurants.
Palace of La Real Audiencia de Santiago
Or simply the Royal Palace, which is where the Federal government is located in addition to the National History Museum.
Santa Lucia Hill
Considered one of the city's postcards!
Located on a hill, 70 meters high, it is a park right in the middle of the city, with 65,300 ². There you will find a lot of tranquility, several statues in honor of the indigenous and Spanish colonizers.
There is a viewpoint right at the top of the hill, to access it just climb several steps of a huge staircase. But it will be worth it, you will have a beautiful view of the city!
Santiago Central Market
If you want to know a little more about the cuisine of a country, go to the central market, it is without a doubt the best place to get to know the food culture.
There are several restaurants, many varieties of typical food, fish, fruits and delicious coffees.
museums
Getting to know the museums of the cities is to learn a little more about the history and how the city was formed.
Below is the list of museums to explore in the city:
Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art
Considered one of the most important in the country, it represents through sculptures, many artifacts and objects, a little of the history of the first inhabitants of the country.
Access to the museum is charged.
National Historical Museum
Admission is free and you will learn about the arrival of the Spaniards in the colonization of the country.
National Museum of Fine Arts
One of the first art museums in Latin America, founded in 1880, it has numerous works by artists from all over the world.
Entry is free.
La Chascona: home of Pablo Neruda
Appreciators of poetry, arts and unique architecture will be enchanted by the famous house of Pablo Neruda, it is located very close to Cerro San Cristóbal.
The house has the icons and a lot of decoration used by Pablo Neruda, you will be delighted with so many details. To go to the house you need to make a reservation.
Santiago Municipal Theater
you can enjoy the theater by taking a guided tour or watching a show.
Cerro San Cristobal
How about having a beautiful view of the city riding the cable car?!
Located right in the center of Parque Metropolitano, the telegraph goes to the top of Cerro San Cristóbal. There are 47 cabins with capacity for up to 6 people, you can take your stroller (it has modules adapted for strollers, bicycles and wheelchairs).
Altogether there are 4 kilometers that lasts around 15 minutes (round trip). It is possible to get on and off at 3 stations: Oasis, Tupahue and Cumbres.
From up there you will be able to see the mountains and the modern part of Santiago.
wineries
Going to Chile and not tasting a regional wine would be a slight for one of the world's leading producers.
There are several tours in wineries and vineyards. One of the easiest to go from the center is in the Maipo Valley, which can be visited on a part-time basis (one morning or one afternoon).
Already wineries, the most visited are: Cousiño Macul and Concha y Toro.
Sky Costanera
Visit the most sought after viewpoint in the capital, beautiful and with 360º angle of the city and its entire valley, with beautiful views of the snow-capped mountains.
The entrance is through the Costanera Center Shopping, take the opportunity to discover the more than 300 stores in this gigantic complex, in the food court part, you will also have a beautiful view of the city landscape.
Snow skiing in Santiago
We couldn't miss on our tour, the walk through the snow, with lots of fun!
You can choose one of the four ski resorts that exist in the surroundings of Santiago.
Valle Nevada It is one of the most sought after spots, because there are several ski slopes, from beginners to advanced and the charming cable car in a closed cabin, which takes tourists to a restaurant in the middle of the slopes at an altitude of 3,200 meters.
In addition to skiing, you can ride snowboards and even make the dreamed snowman!
In addition to this park, there is farellones, La Parva and El Colorado: in addition to the option of skiing, there are activities such as tobogganing in the snow (tubing), skiing and zip lining.
Popular neighborhoods in Santiago
Providencia, Las Condes and Bellavista
Providence: It stands out for its bustling trade, variety of good restaurants and lively bars, offering a vibrant and bustling atmosphere.
Las Condes: It is characterized by tranquility and a more sophisticated atmosphere, being considered an upscale neighborhood with excellent shopping options and refined restaurants.
Bellavista: It is a bohemian and lively area, ideal for enjoying cozy bars, dining in charming surroundings and enjoying the lively atmosphere of the nightlife.
Barrio Paris and London
Barrio Paris e Londres is located right in front of the famous University of Chile metro station. These streets have a European touch and make the tour very different and nostalgic for those who love to dazzle the architecture of the buildings and houses, the history began around 1925 and maintains impeccable traces of its structure.
Famous movies from big brands from Chilean producers like: ¡No doubt unmissable! they made many recordings here for decades.
Things to do in Santiago, Chile
Finally, I hope you enjoyed the tips! This city has a lot to discover, enjoy every bit of culture and history!
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