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Santiago

Most travelers stay in Santiago just enough to plan their trip to the north or south. But this crazy and crowded city has lots to offer; culture, history, night life and more. You will find much to enjoy in this city and its surroundings if you just take the time. 

Top destinations in Santiago

Plaza de Armas: the heart of Santiago. You will find the Cathedral, the Main Post Office, the Precolumbian Arts Museum and a Sernatur Office (tourism information).

Cerro San Cristobal: If you have good luck, and the day is clear, you can enjoy a wonderful view of Santiago.

Cerro Santa Lucia: historical site, and across the street one of the biggest and best “feria artesanal” (handcraft market). 

Museo de Bellas Artes: located in one of Santiago’s most charming parks “Parque Forestal”. This museum has a permanent collection of French, Italian, Dutch and Chilean paintings, and special exhibits from overseas. 

Barrio Bellavista: bohemian quarter with lots of pubs, bars and restaurants. You’ll also find Pablo Neruda’s house “La Chascona” (museum) and Chilean lapislazuli handcraft. 

Barrio Brasil: beautiful historical neighborhood, with colorful houses and hidden plazas. The wide variety of pubs and restaurants give this area a unique bohemian touch.

Mercado Central: colorful market with seafood and vegetables, great to have an impression of Chilean’s way of life and typical cuisine.

Pueblo Los Dominicos: Chilean handcraft market, not one of the cheapest, but certainly one of the most sophisticated.

Plaza Ñuñoa: great night life and a nice atmosphere, with the bars and cafes lining the main square. There is also a theatre “Universidad Catolica” and a disco “La Batuta”. 

Providencia: shops and vegetarian restaurants during the day, different kinds of interesting bars and pubs at night.

Surroundings

   

Santiago is a great starting point for excursions such as:

  • Cajon del Maipo: canyon of the Maipo river
  • Valparaiso: historic harbor
  • Viña del Mar: beaches, casino
  • Vineyards: Viña Concha y Toro, Viña Undurraga, Viña Cousiño Macul
  • Ski resorts: La Parva, El Colorado, Valle Nevado, Lagunillas, Portillo
  • National Parks: La Campana, Hierba Loca