What are the best things to do in Santiago de Chile?

When you think of Chile, a country defined by a narrow corridor of land stretching along the west coast of South America, the first thing that springs to mind is its splendid capital and magnificent landscapes, “Santiago de Chile”. Divided into 37 municipalities, the city has the reputation of being an open-air museum, with so many beautiful things to admire: surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Andes and the sumptuous Cordillera de la Costa, Santiago de Chile is the cradle of the country. It’s where all the important political and administrative activities take place. Before you stop there for just a day or two and head off to another destination, let us list the six best things to do there.

What to do in Santiago de Chile

1. Cerro San Cristóbal

Category: Free/Cultural/Sporting

Description: It was hard for us to decide which places, or which square, you should visit first. In the end, we thought about it. Before you start visiting museums, cultural venues or indulging in a few hours of shopping, why not take a deep breath of fresh air? What we suggest is that you head for the Bellavista district, to the area known as Cerro San Cristóbal. Described as the island’s green lung, this 880-metre high hill, which covers almost 722 hectares, is a delightful outdoor walk for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts looking for a thrill. The landscape? We’d rather not tell you, we’ll let you be surprised! A little spoiler (if you can call it a spoiler): the statue of the Virgin Mary that proudly dominates the hill, as if standing on her throne, is a superb spot for great photos!

2. Stroll to the Plaza de Armas

Category: €€/Gastronomic/Cultural

Description: After visiting the island’s green lung, head down to one of the most enchanting places you’ll ever experience: the historic heart of the city is right on your doorstep, “La Plaza de Armas”. A true vestige of time, and of a part of history, this magnificent square dates back to the time of the mythical Spanish conquistador, Pedro de Valdivia. One thing’s for sure: you’re going to love strolling along the paths adorned with multicoloured flowers and trees whose branches provide precious, invigorating shade. If you’re travelling with your little family, why not stop for a few moments to enjoy a delicious sweet treat, for which the capital has the secret? But before you settle down with your legs crossed on a terrace, be sure to visit the cathedral, as well as the various palaces and museums that are the pride of the country.

3. Catedral Metropolitana de Santiago

Category: €€/Cultural

Description: Are you still heading towards the Plaza de Armas? As you walk along the pedestrian streets, turn your gaze 360°. There, you’ll come face to face with the Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago de Chile, more commonly known as the “Catedral Metropolitana de Santiago”. It’s a visit you’ll never forget. Open every day from 10am to 7pm, except weekends when it is open from 9am to 1.30pm, the walls of the cathedral contain all the history and culture of the city. With its intricate architecture, paintings and ornate interior, the neoclassical-inspired cathedral is a place of reflection for many, whose peaceful yet electric atmosphere takes us on a whirlwind of unforgettable memories. Considered by many to be one of the most beautiful pieces of religious architecture in the whole of South America, let yourself be guided on a leisurely tour, where you will meet the Archbishop of Santiago.

4. The Palacio de la Moneda

Category: €€/Cultural

Description: As we’ve already told you, you need to book at least three weeks in advance to visit the Palacio de la Moneda. So you might as well get in early! But if you’re curious enough to walk past this imposing building and dream of setting foot inside, you’ll be glad you did. Welcome to the red, yellow and blue lounges! Open Monday to Friday from 10am to 6.30pm, your visit to the palace will take you to rooms that even your wildest dreams could never have imagined. You’ll learn how this mythical place was once the scene of a violent coup d’état in the 1970s. By exploring the cultural centre in the basement, you can learn more about the country’s history, customs and culture. A key event not to be missed? The official Changing of the Guard, an interesting ceremony you’ll be glad you attended.

5. The Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art

Category: €€/Cultural

Description: Closed on Mondays, but open every other day of the week from 10am to 6pm, go to the street “Bandera 361”. There are a whole host of museums to discover in Santiago de Chile, but if there’s one you really must visit, it’s the “Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art”. As you pass through the neoclassical façade, you’ll enter a museum containing comprehensive collections of pre-Columbian civilisations. After visiting the room dedicated to the native peoples of Chile, venture into the great cultural spaces of South America: the Caribbean, Mesoamerica, and even the Andes as far as Amazonia. This journey back in time will help you understand the way of life of the Mayas, Aztecs and Incas. Their rites, traditions and way of life will hold no secrets for you.

6. Visit to the Barrio de Bellavista district

Category: €€/Cultural/Gastronomic

Description: To round off your stay, how about a night out in one of South America’s most unusual neighbourhoods? You’re in for a treat! The Bellavista district is famous for its colours, drawings, tags and frescoes that cover and adorn the walls of the houses. You’ll easily need a good three hours to explore it in its entirety. Not to mention the fact that the area is known for its delicious restaurants, and the smell wafting from the kitchens makes you want more. There are plenty of shops and cafés to choose from in this lively district, which stands in stark contrast to the rest of the city. Enter a world of drawings, fantastical stories and exciting encounters.