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Things to Do in Santiago, Chile
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Plan language: EnglishMost popular attractions in Santiago, Chile
The best things to do in Santiago, Chile include climbing Cerro San Cristobal, which offers panoramic views at 880 meters high, visiting Palacio de La Moneda, the seat of the Chilean government, and strolling through Plaza de Armas, the historic heart of the city. Do not forget to explore the colorful Bellavista neighborhood, full of life and art.
1. La Moneda Palace
A journey that connects with decisive moments in Chile. Experience the changing of the guard and observe impressive historical murals.
Quick facts: Built with ashlar stone, the palace houses a collection of murals that narrate key episodes of Chilean history. Its structure has survived significant earthquakes, including the one in 2010 that reached a magnitude of 8.8.
Highlights: Inside, the Press Room where historic events were announced is preserved. Every day at noon, the changing of the guard offers a military spectacle with traditional uniforms and live music.
2. Plaza de Armas
A destination to understand the soul of Santiago. Experience the mix of history, sounds and colors in the heart of the city.
Quick facts: The central square has been operating for over 400 years as a hub for social and political gatherings. Its surroundings feature iconic buildings such as the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Santiago City Hall.
Highlights: Every Sunday, the square transforms into an artisan market with over 200 stalls where folk music can be heard and local flavors can be enjoyed. A tower with 17 bells marks the hours while tourists and locals mingle in its tree-lined square.
3. Bellavista Neighborhood
A tour through the cultural and nightlife epicenter of Santiago. Discover street art, terrace bars and the house of Pablo Neruda.
Quick facts: Más de 30 murales cubren las paredes en esta área, reflejando la influencia artística bohemia de la zona. Aquí se encuentra Cerro San Cristóbal, un parque urbano que ofrece vistas panorámicas de la ciudad y la cordillera de Los Andes.
Highlights: El patio Bellavista alberga más de 20 bares y restaurantes con terrazas coloridas y música en vivo casi todas las noches, creando un ambiente único. La antigua casa de Pablo Neruda, La Chascona, situada en este barrio, invita a conocer detalles muy personales del poeta chileno.
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4. Museum of Memory and Human Rights
Explore raw stories of resilience and justice. Experience immersive exhibits that echo voices of real survivors.
Quick facts: Houses a powerful collection documenting human rights violations during Chile's military dictatorship with over 50,000 archived testimonies. Receives tens of thousands of visitors each year who seek to understand Chile's recent history.
Highlights: Features a haunting audio-visual installation called 'Sala de la Dignidad' where voices of survivors echo through a dimly lit tunnel. The exterior is sculpted with 1,200 aluminum tubes symbolizing the people who disappeared, a striking and solemn tribute visible from the street.
5. Santa Lucia Hill
A viewpoint with views that take your breath away. Climb through gardens, murals and a castle that looks like fantasy.
Quick facts: The hill is 69 meters high and is an extinct volcano. From its top you get an impressive panoramic view of Santiago and the Andes mountain range.
Highlights: At the center of the hill is a neoclassical castle called Castillo Hidalgo that looks like it came out of a storybook. Every corner offers murals and fountains dating from the 19th century, showcasing Chilean history at every step.
6. Parque Forestal
A green oasis that connects with prominent museums. Enjoy outdoor sculptures and vibrant cultural events.
Quick facts: Parque Forestal follows the course of the Mapocho River, offering more than 30 hectares of green spaces in the heart of the city. It houses sculptures by renowned Chilean artists and connects to several nearby museums and galleries.
Highlights: Among its large oaks and linden trees, an interesting secret is the Museum of Fine Arts, which seems to emerge from the park with its neoclassical facade and its outdoor exhibitions. The park comes alive with art fairs and live music on weekends, creating a unique cultural atmosphere.
7. Mercado Central
A paradise for local food lovers. Discover fresh flavors and intense aromas while exploring its lively aisles.
Quick facts: More than 200 stalls offer fresh products and handicrafts in a space of 7,000 square meters. It is estimated to receive around 3 million visitors per year, including locals and tourists.
Highlights: The market's roofs are covered with French cast iron, parts imported especially for this place. A curious detail is that here you can find fish and seafood brought directly from the coast of Chile every dawn.
8. Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago
It is worth it for its imposing architecture and impressive religious art. Experience the magnificent atmosphere and the sounds of the monumental organ.
Quick facts: It houses a historic organ with over 4,000 pipes that is still used in special concerts. Its bells weigh up to 3 tons and can be heard for kilometers around, marking the rhythm of the city.
Highlights: A fascinating detail is the main altarpiece with over 200 hand-carved figures in gilded wood, which shines with the natural light coming through the stained glass windows. During Sunday mass, the choir in its traditional costumes fills the cathedral with impressive acoustics, creating a unique spiritual experience.
9. Costanera Center
Go up to the 61st floor for a spectacular view of Santiago. Experience the mix of shopping, gastronomy and mountain view in one place.
Quick facts: The skyscraper reaches 300 meters, making it the tallest building in Latin America. It has the largest shopping center in Chile, which has more than 300 stores and an IMAX theater.
Highlights: The views from the platform on the 61st floor offer a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of Santiago and the Andes mountain range. There is an observation deck with glass windows that make you feel like you are walking above the sky, ideal for those who love heights and stunning photos.
Where to Stay in Santiago, Chile
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Traditional Sweet Dishes
Alfajores
Alfajores are soft cookies filled with dulce de leche, a sweet milk caramel, and are a popular dessert throughout Chile, including Santiago.
Mote con Huesillo
Mote con Huesillo is a non-alcoholic summertime drink made from husked wheat and dried peaches cooked in sugar syrup, enjoyed as a refreshing sweet treat.
Kuchen
Kuchen, a German-style fruit cake introduced by German immigrants, has become a beloved dessert in Santiago, often made with berries or apples.
Traditional Savory Dishes
Empanadas
Empanadas in Santiago are typically filled with pino, a mixture of beef, onions, olives and hard-boiled eggs, representing a staple traditional savory snack.
Cazuela
Cazuela is a hearty Chilean stew with meat, potatoes, corn, and squash, reflecting the country’s agricultural roots and traditional family meals.
Completo
The Completo is a Chilean hot dog loaded with sauerkraut, diced tomatoes and mayonnaise, famed in Santiago for its generous toppings and taste.
Traditional Beverages
Chicha
Chicha is a traditional fermented grape or apple drink enjoyed during festivities, with a slightly sweet and tangy flavor popular in Santiago.
Mote con Huesillo
Aside from being a dessert, Mote con Huesillo is also served as a traditional drink combining sweet dried peaches and husked wheat.
Terremoto
Terremoto is a vibrant cocktail made with pipeño wine, pineapple ice cream and grenadine, known for its festive and strong character in Santiago.
Frequently Asked Questions about Santiago, Chile
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Most popular day trips
Valparaiso
A colorful coastal city known for its street art and bohemian culture.
Viña del Mar
Popular seaside resort with beaches, gardens, and a lively casino.
Cajon del Maipo
A scenic mountain area offering hiking, hot springs, and outdoor activities.
Getting there
Airports
Train stations
Intercity trains to Valparaiso and other cities
Take the Centropuerto bus from the airport to downtown Santiago for a direct and affordable transfer.
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Comments (5)
Santiago has a cool vibe, mix of modern and old. Food was great but watch out, some spots are touristy and pricey. Spring was perfect for weather. I'd say 4 days is enough.
The city is chaotic but friendly. I loved the street art and cheap eats in neighborhoods outside the center. Expect some smog, especially if you're there in winter.
Pro tip: Get the Bip! card for metro rides, you save a lot over buying single tickets. And definitely try local markets for good cheap food, not the restaurants near Plaza de Armas.
Most museums have free entry on Tuesdays, check schedules before you visit. Also, skip taxis, download 'Cabify' app, it's way cheaper and safer.
Nice city but I found it kind of overrated. Crowds at popular spots and not a lot for nightlife. I'd stay 2-3 days max unless you really like urban exploring.