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aerial photography of city during night - Photo by Jorge Mülchi Cossio

Discover Amazing Sights and Culture in Santiago, Chile: A Travel Blog

About Santiago, Chile

Santiago, Chile is a vibrant city that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, Santiago is a must-visit destination for travelers looking for an unforgettable experience. Explore the city's many museums and parks, or take a day trip to the nearby Andes mountains for stunning views and outdoor adventure.

Santiago, the capital city of Chile, is a beautiful and bustling metropolis nestled in the Andes Mountains. It's a city rich in history, culture, and stunning architecture. Santiago is a popular destination for tourists, offering an array of activities and attractions that cater to a wide variety of interests.

One of the most popular attractions in Santiago is the Cerro San Cristobal, a towering hill that offers panoramic views of the city. Visitors can take a funicular railway to the top of the hill or hike up the winding trail. Once at the top, visitors can explore the beautiful park and enjoy the breathtaking vistas of the city below.

For history buffs, the Plaza de Armas is a must-visit destination. This historic square is the heart of Santiago and features many landmarks and buildings that date back to colonial times. The Metropolitan Cathedral and the Palacio de La Moneda, the presidential palace, are both located in the Plaza de Armas and are open for visitors.

Foodies will also find plenty to love in Santiago. The city is renowned for its cuisine, which blends traditional Chilean dishes with international influences. Visitors can sample a variety of delicious dishes, including fresh seafood, grilled meats, and empanadas.

Finally, Santiago is also an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area. Just outside the city, visitors can explore the beautiful wine region of the Maipo Valley, where many of Chile's famous vineyards are located. The Andes Mountains are also just a short drive away, offering opportunities for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities.

Overall, Santiago is a vibrant and exciting travel destination that has something to offer everyone. Whether you're interested in history, culture, food, or outdoor activities, you're sure to find plenty to love in this beautiful city.

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Popular Stays in Santiago, Chile

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in Santiago, Chile

General view
Business hotelsGolf hotelsHotels with spa

Mandarin Oriental Santiago

Mandarin Oriental Santiago is located in the exclusive residential district of Las Condes - known to be the heart of the city s commerce and tourism. With easy access to the airport and downtown - the hotel is located near major shopping malls - golf clubs and vineyards. Santiago airport is 25km 15. 5mi from the hotel - the main ski resorts are approximately one hour away - and the most popular beaches are only an hour and a half away. Santiago airport - SCL - 25km 15. 5mi - 20 minutes by car- Our lobby and all our rooms have been recently totally renovated. Mandarin Oriental, Santiago, one of the most iconic buildings in the city, is the first Mandarin Oriental in South America. The state-of-the-art rooms, suites and facilities offer the ultimate luxury experience framed by breathtaking Andes mountains. Featuring artwork exclusively created by local female artists, and the signature fan designed by Chilean muralist Mario Toral. Explore the lush gardens and a lagoon-style pool with a waterfall, which turn the property into a true urban oasis.
General view
Business hotelsFamily hotels

Sheraton Santiago Hotel And Convention Center

With a stay at Sheraton Santiago Hotel and Convention Center in Santiago (Providencia), you'll be within a 10-minute walk of Clínica Indisa and Sculpture Park. This upscale hotel is 1. 2 mi (2 km) from Costanera Center and 2. 5 mi (4 km) from Plaza de Armas. . Enjoy a range of recreational amenities, including an outdoor pool, an indoor pool, and a sauna. Additional amenities at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and ski storage. Getting to nearby attractions is a breeze with the area shuttle (surcharge) that operates within 50 km. . Make yourself at home in one of the 379 guestrooms featuring minibars and flat-screen televisions. Your Select Comfort bed comes with premium bedding. Cable programming provides entertainment, and wired and wireless internet access is available for a surcharge. Private bathrooms with bathtubs or showers feature complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. . Enjoy international cuisine at El Jardin Coffee Shop, one of the hotel's 4 restaurants, or stay in and take advantage of the 24-hour room service. Snacks are also available at the coffee shop/cafe. Relax with a refreshing drink from the poolside bar or one of the 3 bars/lounges. Buffet breakfasts are available daily from 6 AM to 11:30 AM for a fee. . Featured amenities include complimentary wired internet access, a business center, and limo/town car service. Planning an event in Santiago? This hotel has 7578 square feet (704 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and a meeting room. A roundtrip airport shuttle is provided for a surcharge (available 24 hours), and self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite. . Distances are displayed to the nearest 0. 1 mile and kilometer. Clínica Indisa - 0. 6 km / 0. 4 mi- Sculpture Park - 0. 6 km / 0. 4 mi- Santiago Metropolitan Park - 0. 8 km / 0. 5 mi- Municipal Market of Providencia - 1 km / 0. 6 mi- Sernatur - 1. 1 km / 0. 7 mi- Santiago Cable Car: Oasis Station - 1. 1 km / 0.
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Business hotelsHotels with charm

Le Méridien Santiago

This hotel is set on Avenida Libertador General Bernardo O'Higgins, in Santiago. The hotel is set between the city centre and Avenida Providencia. Guests will find themselves just a few minutes' walking distance away from 2 of the main metro stations in the city. The hotel is set facing the Diego Portales Convention Centre. The ideal option for business and leisure travellers, the hotel is surrounded by many of the city's main attractions. Comodoro Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport is just a 15 minutes' driving distance away. This charming hotel enjoys a charming design. The guest rooms are functional, spacious and comfortable. Those travelling for work or events purposes will appreciate the hotel's expansive conference space. The hotel features a fitness centre, which comprises a gym and sauna , as well as an outdoor pool and a hot tub ( closed from April to October-winter season)
General view
Business hotels

Mercure Santiago Centro

Mercure Santiago Centro is close to the main tourist spots: Plaza de Armas, Metropolitan Cathedral, Palacio de la Moneda, Central Market, Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, City Theater. It is 30m from Santa Lucía subway station and 18km from Santiago International Airport. The hotel facilities meet all your holiday or business trip needs, swimming pool, bar, restaurant, gym and meeting/event rooms.
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Business hotelsHotels with charmDesign

Novotel Santiago Las Condes

This business hotel is located on Avenida Alonso de Cordova, in Las Condes. The hotel is situated just a few metres away from Araucano Park. The area's business centre and the Las Condes shopping centre are also in the vicinity. The hotel is just a 20 minutes' journey away from Bellavista. This wonderful hotel is just a 90 minutes' driving distance away from Vina del Mar. This charming conference hotel enjoys a modern design. The guest rooms offer comfort and style. The hotel features a business centre, as well as 5 large rooms for meetings and conferences, offering the utmost in convenience to those travelling for work purposes. Guests can enjoy a vigorous workout in the gym, followed by a refreshing swim in the pool.
Lobby
Business hotels

Pullman Santiago El Bosque

The hotel is located on a lively popular street, a few meters from the Tobalaba metro station, in the El Golf sector of Las Condes. This new and modern hotel offers free Internet access in public areas, a business centre which is open 24 hours a day and many other services for guests of all ages. A gymnasium with pool on the 18th floor affords panoramic view of the city of Santiago de Chile and is equipped with everything guests will need to stay in shape. Large meeting rooms are provided for the use of business travellers, as are convention facilities with capacity for up to 200 people. The spacious guestrooms are set to the perfect temperature and are also soundproofed. All rooms are fitted with cable TV, a work desk and mini bar and some accommodations are adapted to the needs of disabled guests.
Sports and Entertainment
Business hotels

Holiday Inn Express Santiago Las Condes

Santiago Holiday Inn Express in the Business District of Las Condes In front of San Cristobal Hill, the Holiday Inn Express® Santiago Las Condes Hotel provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all travelers. Located in Vitacura Avenue, just outside of the city center, visitors can enjoy the buzz of Santiago's main avenues and retire to a quiet neighborhood in the evening. Guests coming for business find our location particularly convenient. Las Condes neighborhood is home to a number of corporations such as the Chile offices for Citibank, Sony Ericsson and Microsoft, which are all situated within a mile of our property. The US Embassy is across the street, and you can have easy access to several subway stations. Our hotel is next to a great restaurant area in Isidora Goyenechea Avenue, where you can find a wide variety of choices including local seafood meals. In addition, Costanera Center, the biggest mall in Chile, is down the road. At this hotel in Santiago, Chile we guarantee travelers a comfortable and convenient stay. Our Fitness Center provides an exercising space, the Business Center and complimentary Internet access allow you a comfortable working time, and the guest patio and lounge offer peaceful resting spaces with the cleanliness high standards included in our IHG Clean Promise®.
General view
Business hotelsHotels with charm

Nh Ciudad De Santiago

Set in the Providencia neighborhood, the NH Ciudad de Santiago hotel gives guests easy access to the city's top attractions. Many can be reached on foot, while the Salvador metro stop is only a short walk away. From the hotel you can see the Bellas Artes Museum, the Government Palace, Palacio de la Moneda, and panoramic views of the Santa Lucia and San Cristobal hills. You will also be close to the international airport which is only a 15-minute drive away. NH Ciudad de Santiago's 122 smartly furnished rooms have a modern and stylish décor and are finished with sleek hardwood floors. Each comes with a sofa, TV, and mini-bar so that you can feel at home while away. Some of the rooms come with spectacular views of the Andes Mountains. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. Guests will enjoy our large breakfast spread that offers a wide variety of options to accommodate all tastes. For lunch and dinner, try our delicious meals which include local Chilean specialties and classic international dishes. If you are feeling a little parched, head to our lobby bar and unwind with a quick drink. There is also a gym and five meeting rooms for up to 200 people.

Things to do in Santiago, Chile

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in Santiago, Chile

Valle del Maipo
Digital Voucher600 minutes

Private Andes Day Trip Maipo Valley with Concha Y Toro Wine Tour

Enjoy a 10-hour private day trip to enjoy the beauty of the Cajon del Maipo valley and Embalse el Yeso with round-trip transportation from your hotel. Take a scenic walk along the lagoon. Drive through the valley stopping at the best viewpoints and for short walks to see waterfalls. Visit the prestigious Concha y Toro Winery and tour its vineyards and mansion, then finish with an included wine tasting, where you'll sip on red and white varieties. Picnic breakfast is included.
Private Andes Day Excursion to Maipo Valley and El Yeso Reservoir
Digital Voucher480 minutes

Private Andes Day Excursion to Maipo Valley and El Yeso Reservoir

This full day excursion is a panoramic tour by private vehicle to enjoy the scenic beauty of Maipo Valley and El Yeso Reservoir. The tour consists of proceeding 62 miles (100 km) from Santiago towards the famous Maipo Valley. The road skirts the Maipo River, which accompanies you with a great view over the Andes foothills.
Private Mountain Bike Tour to El Yeso Reservoir and Maipo Valley
Digital Voucher480 minutes

Private Mountain Bike Tour to El Yeso Reservoir and Maipo Valley

Visit Cajon del Maipo and it's top attraction El Yeso Dam on this full-day, small group tour from Santiago. Enjoy a transfer from Santiago to the Andes mountain range and Cajon del Maipo. Embark on a 12-mile mountain bike ride starting from the water reserve and making your way down into the Maipo Valley. This 8-hour tour includes an outdoor picnic in the mountains.
Andes Day Lagoon in Cajón del Maipo & Embalse el Yeso Private Tour
Digital Voucher540 minutes

Andes Day Lagoon in Cajón del Maipo & Embalse el Yeso Private Tour

Discover the magic of the Andes during your visit to Santiago! The Embalse is one of the best spots of the mountain range. Disconnect yourself from chaos of the city and recover your energy. Be ready with your camera to go through a waterfall, a tunnel, a millenarian glacier and the suggestive main town of San Jose de Maipo.  Our professional mountain guides will show you the best of the area and you will have the possibility to taste appetizzers and chilean wine in the best company!. Live a unique experience and an unforgettable day at Cajon del Maipo!
Glacier Hike 16K- El Morado Natural Monument, San Francisco Glacier Private Tour
Digital Voucher720 minutes

Glacier Hike 16K- El Morado Natural Monument, San Francisco Glacier Private Tour

Enjoy this spectacular trip to “El Morado” Natural Monument National Park, located at 93 kms (57 miles) from Santiago.  The starting point of the hike is in Baños Morales, a mountain village at 1,900 meters of altitude (6,200 ft). The trail leads to the beautiful San Francisco Glacier lookout at 2,500 meters (8,200 ft) and the Morales Glacier lagoon. During the hike we will have a refreshing stop at “Aguas de Panimávida”, iron-rich carbonated waters that directly spills out from the earth. Difficulty level is HIGH. This tour is recommended for people in good physical shape. The first hour of the hike is steep and then it becomes flat. The difference of altitude is of 600 meters (1,900 ft).
Hot Spring
Digital Voucher720 minutes

Santiago: Full day Trekking to El Morado glacier, include hot springs entrance.

This tour has everything you need for an adventure in the Andes mountain range. Trekking to visit a Glacier and Hot Springs to relax
2-Day Private Glacier Hike and Hot-springs from Santiago, Carbon Neutral
Digital Voucher2 days

2-Day Private Glacier Hike and Hot-springs from Santiago, Carbon Neutral

Enjoy two days of hiking in the middle of the Andes, with stunning views to different glaciers. At night, take pleasure in nice hot springs in the middle of the mountains and delight with the starry night and shooting stars. You will be hiking in very scenic andean valleys and able to see different glaciers an andean lagoons with icebergs. We will set up our camp close to the hotsprings.
matetic 1
Digital Voucher420 minutes

Small-Group Tour at Matetic Vineyard in Rosario Valley from Santiago

The visit begins at the wine cellar reception. Travelers are greeted by a bilingual guide who will invite them on a visit. This is the perfect place to learn all about the vineyard's history, the organic and bio-dynamic agriculture and the process of wine making, while enjoying panoramic views of the vineyards. The tank rooms, the beautiful and peaceful aging room and the architecture of the winery will be highlights of their visit. The tour ends with a wine tasting, either in the underground tasting room or in the outdoor terrace overlooking the vineyards. This service can be on shared transportation with a maximum group of 7 persons per vehicle. Yes, we do have face masks. We ask tour participants to please bring their own masks, ideally reusable. As we are an ecological company we prefer not to have to use disposable masks to avoid contamination.

Why People Love Santiago, Chile

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in Santiago, Chile

H
Haia_K
2
Mar 2020
Santiago private tour: Portillo, Inca's bridge & Mirador del Aconcagua
Santiago private tour: Portillo, Inca's bridge & Mirador del Aconcagua
Santiago private tour: Portillo, Inca's bridge & Mirador del Aconcagua
Santiago private tour: Portillo, Inca's bridge & Mirador del Aconcagua
The tour started very promising. A knowledgeable guide with good control of the English language did her best during the hours ride to the first destination - a ski resort in the Andes. Unfortunately, we were not allowed to pass through the border with Argentina due to lack of required paperwor...
B
Brian_B
5
Nov 2019
Santiago private tour: Portillo, Inca's bridge & Mirador del Aconcagua
Santiago private tour: Portillo, Inca's bridge & Mirador del Aconcagua
Santiago private tour: Portillo, Inca's bridge & Mirador del Aconcagua
Santiago private tour: Portillo, Inca's bridge & Mirador del Aconcagua
Our group of 13 persons enjoyed our day-long trip. The weather was great and the guides were very personable and informative. Our driver is to be commended for expertly navigating the 28 curves up the mountain then back down again when we crossed into Argentina. Its an experience not to be missed...
S
Socorro50432
4
Dec 2022
Santiago private tour: Portillo, Inca's bridge & Mirador del Aconcagua
Santiago private tour: Portillo, Inca's bridge & Mirador del Aconcagua
Santiago private tour: Portillo, Inca's bridge & Mirador del Aconcagua
Santiago private tour: Portillo, Inca's bridge & Mirador del Aconcagua
Férias maravilhosa, incrível e muito apaixonante, amei esta em contato com as montanhas, vale a pena visitar Portillo no Chile.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Santiago

What are some must-see attractions in Santiago?

Santiago has many wonderful attractions to offer visitors. One of the most popular is Cerro San Cristobal, which offers stunning views of the city. Other must-see attractions include the Plaza de Armas, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes. If you're interested in history, be sure to visit the Chilean National History Museum, which covers the country's rich past in great detail. For art lovers, the Museum of Memory and Human Rights is also worth a visit.

What are some fun activities to do in Santiago?

Santiago has a diverse range of activities to offer visitors. If you love the outdoors, take a hike in the stunning Andes Mountains or explore one of the many parks in the city, such as Parque Bicentenario. For a taste of Chilean culture, check out a traditional dance performance or visit one of the many local markets, such as the Mercado Central. Wine lovers should definitely take a tour of the local vineyards in the Maipo Valley. Finally, don't forget to try some of the delicious Chilean cuisine, such as empanadas or pastel de choclo.

What are the best neighborhoods to stay in Santiago?

Santiago has a variety of neighborhoods to choose from, depending on your preferences. For a lively atmosphere and great nightlife, try the Bellavista neighborhood. Providencia is another popular neighborhood, known for its shopping and dining options. For a more upscale experience, Las Condes is a great choice, with many high-end hotels and restaurants. Finally, if you want to experience the city's history and culture firsthand, stay in the city center, close to attractions such as the Plaza de Armas and the Metropolitan Cathedral.

What is the best time of year to visit Santiago?

The best time to visit Santiago is during the summer months of December through February, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so you may encounter crowds and higher prices. If you prefer a quieter experience, try visiting in the spring or fall, when the weather is still pleasant but there are fewer tourists. Winter can be cold and rainy, but it's also a great time to hit the ski slopes in the nearby Andes Mountains.

What are some family-friendly activities in Santiago?

Santiago has many activities that are perfect for families. The Parque Bicentenario is a great choice for a family outing, with its large playground and beautiful gardens. The Chilean National Zoo is also a popular attraction, with a wide variety of animals on display. The Museum of Natural History is another great choice, with interactive exhibits that kids will love. Finally, take a ride on the funicular to the top of Cerro San Cristobal for some breathtaking views of the city.

What is the best way to get around Santiago?

Santiago has an excellent public transportation system, including a metro system and a network of buses. The metro is a great way to get around quickly and cheaply, while the buses are a good option for more remote areas. Taxis are also widely available, but be sure to negotiate the fare before getting in. Finally, if you prefer to explore at your own pace, consider renting a car.

What are some budget-friendly activities in Santiago?

Santiago has many options for budget-friendly activities. The city's many parks are free to visit and offer a great way to enjoy the outdoors. The Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes and the Museum of Contemporary Art are both free to enter, as is the Parque Bicentenario. The Cerro Santa Lucia is a great place to take in the city views, with a small fee to enter. Finally, don't forget to try some of the delicious street food, such as sopaipillas or choripanes.

What are some romantic activities in Santiago?

Santiago has many romantic activities to offer couples. Take a stroll through the beautiful Parque Forestal or enjoy a picnic in the Parque Bicentenario. For a more upscale experience, try one of the many rooftop bars in the city, such as the Sky Costanera or the Hotel Cumbres. For a romantic dinner, try the popular Aqui Esta Coco, which offers excellent seafood and a cozy atmosphere. Finally, take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets of the Bellavista neighborhood for a truly romantic experience.

What is the local currency in Santiago?

The local currency in Santiago is the Chilean peso. Many places in the city will accept credit cards, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially for smaller purchases or when visiting local markets. You can exchange money at banks or currency exchange offices throughout the city, but be sure to compare rates before making a transaction.

What are some unique experiences to have in Santiago?

Santiago has many unique experiences to offer visitors. For a truly local experience, try taking a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Chilean dishes, such as empanadas or pastel de choclo. You can also take a bike tour of the city or visit a local vineyard for a wine tasting. For a more adventurous experience, try paragliding over the city or hiking in the nearby Andes Mountains. Finally, be sure to check out the city's vibrant street art scene for some truly unique sights.