Santiago

Chile, South America

Santiago, the vibrant capital of Chile, is renowned for its stunning backdrop of the Andes mountains, rich culture, and dynamic nightlife. Visitors can explore the historic Plaza de Armas, the modern Centro Cultural La Moneda, and indulge in local wines in nearby Valle del Maipo. With its diverse neighborhoods, from the bohemian Bellavista to the upscale Las Condes, Santiago offers an eclectic mix of experiences, culinary delights, and lively markets, making it a must-visit destination in South America.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

Other

Airport

Los Cerrillos

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Santiago

1

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Cerro San Cristóbal

Take in breathtaking views of the city and Andes.

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Plaza de Armas

Discover the historic heart of Santiago's culture.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Wander through Barrio Bellavista

Experience vibrant street art, dining, and nightlife.

No booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit La Moneda Palace

Tour the presidential palace and its historical significance.

Booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art

Explore ancient artifacts from Chile's indigenous cultures.

No booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through Parque Bicentenario

Enjoy a beautiful urban park with scenic views.

No booking required
7

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Taste wine in the Maipo Valley

Savor world-class Chilean wines in stunning vineyards.

Booking required
8

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos

Learn about Chile's human rights history.

No booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Climb to the top of the Sky Costanera

Get panoramic views from South America's tallest building.

Booking required
10

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience the Mercado Central

Savor fresh seafood and local culinary delights.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

9 (#13 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Chilean Peso

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Curanto

Traditional seafood and meat stew. (National dish)

Empanadas

V

Stuffed pastry with various fillings.

Pastel de Choclo

Corn pie with meat and vegetables.

Cazuela

Hearty meat and vegetable soup.

Completo

Chilean hot dog with toppings.

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)