Santiago de Chile is full of incredible places to visit. You can explore the historic center with its museums and see the changing of the guard at La Moneda Palace. Don't forget to climb the city's viewpoints, like the Cerro Santa Lucia and the Cerro San Cristóbal.
There are more cool things to do there. You can visit the houses of the poet Pablo Neruda, visit a winery and see the beautiful coastal cities of Valparaíso and Viña del Mar. Don't miss Sky Costanera, the highest viewpoint in Latin America, and the Bahá'í Temple, something very innovative .
The Cajón del Maipo is a place with wonderful landscapes and many outdoor activities. Santiago de Chile has many places that will enchant you. Enjoy.
Main Conclusions:
- Santiago de Chile is a city full of tourist attractions, from museums to natural viewpoints.
- Be sure to visit the homes of poet Pablo Neruda and explore the charming coastal towns of Valparaíso and Viña del Mar.
- Sky Costanera and the Bahá'i Temple are unique attractions worth visiting.
- Explore the stunning landscapes of Cajón del Maipo and enjoy the region's outdoor activities.
- Santiago de Chile offers a wide variety of tourist attractions that will enchant you and provide a unique experience.
Historic center and Museums
The historic center of Santiago is full of history and beauty. It is an important place for anyone who wants to get to know the city. In this region, you will find tourist attractions that cannot be left out.
The Plaza de Armas is a place you must visit. It is an old square in the heart of Santiago. And, in the square, you will see the Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago. It is a National Monument of Chile, showing the cultural and historical importance of the country.
In the historic center, there are also several museums. The National Historical Museum takes you on a journey through the history of Chile. You will know it from pre-colonial times to today. The Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art displays ancient artifacts. This way, you will see what the culture of the Chilean people was like in the past.
“The historic center of Santiago is a cultural treasure, with museums and attractions that tell the story of Chile.”
Don't forget to visit La Moneda Palace. This is where the Chilean government works. You can take guided tours for free. This way, you learn more about the political history of Chile.
For those who love art, the Museu Nacional de Bellas Artes is an incredible place. There are several works of art, such as paintings and sculptures. It is close to a beautiful Forest Park and entry is free.
The historic center is busy, especially on Paseo Ahumada. This street is full of people and places to shop. Explore the shops, restaurants and cafes and get a feel for the city life.
| Emphasis | Attraction | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Santiago Metropolitan Cathedral | National Monument of Chile, representing the cultural and historical relevance of the country. |
| 2 | National Historical Museum | Content that preserves and disseminates the history of Chile since pre-colonization. |
| 3 | Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art | Exhibition of indigenous artifacts that reveal the ancestral culture of the Chilean people. |
| 4 | La Moneda Palace | Headquarters of the Chilean government and historic landmark of the city. |
| 5 | National Museum of Fine Arts | Relevant cultural space that houses interesting works of art. |
Exploring the historic center of Santiago is getting involved with the culture of Chile. One day is enough to see its main points. Discover the wonders this area has to show.
Cerro Santa Lucia
O Cerro Santa Lucia is in the center of Santiago, Chile. It is 69 meters high and has an area of 65,300 m2. From there, you have a wonderful view of the city.
To get to the top, you have the option of walking or taking the funicular. When you get to the top, see the Andes Mountains in the distance. The panoramic view is simply beautiful!
Up there, you will also see the Hidalgo Castle, built in 1816. Its architecture dates back to colonial times. There is also a crafts fair. Great place to buy souvenirs.
O Cerro Santa Lucia It's special, in the heart of Santiago. Since the 19th century, it has been a place where everyone can visit. Everyone can visit this beautiful park.
Entrance to Cerro Santa Lucía is free. The park is open every day, from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm, even on public holidays.
It's not good to go on Mondays and Fridays, because of protests. The park is open from Tuesday to Sunday. You can enjoy it from 08:00 to 18:30.
Cerro Santa Lucía has two entrances: via Avenida Alameda and Calle Merced. You can take the metro to Santa Lucía station, red line.
The elevator at Cerro Santa Lucía hasn't worked for years. There are only stone stairs to climb. Be careful, the floor on the stairs can be slippery.
Cerro Santa Lucía Sculpture Garden
On Cerro Santa Lucía, there is the Sculpture Garden. It is a beautiful place with statues of indigenous figures and Spanish colonizers. The outdoor works of art tell the history and culture of the place.
A visit to Cerro Santa Lucía is a unique chance to see beautiful landscapes. It will definitely be an unforgettable moment on your trip to Santiago.
Cerro San Cristóbal, cable car and Zoo
O Cerro San Cristóbal It's an incredible place in Santiago. It is located in Parque Metropolitano, the largest park in the city. From Cerro, you see a beautiful landscape. There is the Immaculate Conception Sanctuary and a 22 meter statue. You can reach the top by funicular or cable car. And there is a zoo up there, great for children.
The funicular underwent renovations and reopened in August 2022. This little train takes you to the top of the Cerro in 8 minutes. The trip is very special.
The cable car is also widely used by those visiting Santiago. It has 46 cabins and a route of 4.8 kilometers. It passes through three stations. But remember: on Mondays it doesn't work, it's maintenance day.
For a complete tour, start with the funicular and buy a round-trip ticket. So, you can enjoy the beautiful view, visit the Sanctuary and try the Chilean drink Mote con Huesillo. If you are without children, you can avoid the zoo. Many tourists only make a brief visit to the park.
If you have children, start by taking the cable car at Pedro de Valdivia station. At Tupahue station, there is a nice playground. Then, go to Cumbre station. To return, use the funicular. And if you want, visit the Municipal Zoo.
After leaving the cable car, you will need to walk about 1.2 kilometers to the Pedro de Valdivia metro station. There, you can take a subway back.
| Information about Cerro San Cristóbal, cable car and Zoo |
|---|
| The funicular Cerro San Cristóbal it reopened in August 2022 after undergoing complete renovations. |
| The funicular takes approximately 8 minutes to climb to the top of Cerro San Cristóbal. |
| The Santiago cable car has 46 cabins that cover a 4.8 kilometer route, passing through three stations: Oasis (Pedro de Valdivia), Tupahue and Cumbre. |
| The Santiago cable car does not operate on Mondays. |
| To go up by funicular and down by cable car, or vice versa, you need to buy separate tickets. |
| After taking the cable car down, you have to walk approximately 1.2 kilometers to reach the nearest metro station, Pedro de Valdivia. |
Therefore, going up Cerro San Cristóbal by funicular or cable car, and visiting the zoo, is wonderful at any age.
Discover one of the houses of the Poet Pablo Neruda + Bellavista Neighborhood
Pablo Neruda was Chile's greatest poet and won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1971. His houses, which have become museums, are widely visited. One of them is La Chascona in Santiago. It is full of poetry and history. It costs 7 thousand Chilean pesos to enter. Visitation is limited per day.
The House La Chascona in Santiago was designed by Carlos Martner. For poetry lovers, it's like finding treasure. Unfortunately, it has already been vandalized. This happened after the fall of Allende. But, it was restored to keep Neruda's memory alive. Tourists who go to the house can visit the Bellavista neighborhood. There are many bars and restaurants there. It is a cultural and vibrant experience for anyone who visits.
In Valparaíso, another Neruda house surprises: La Sebastiana. The poet bought it in the 1950s. It offers a beautiful view of the sea and some of his personal objects are on display. Climbing the hill where the house is located is an incredible walk. There, visitors immerse themselves in Neruda's history and poetry. During New Year's Eve, there are fireworks at the port. The view from La Sebastiana it is one of the best places to see them.
A Isla Negra House, in El Quisco, is also a must-see. It was the first house the poet bought, in 1939, and it is his favorite. The place looks like a museum, with several collections. The tomb and gardens are open for free viewing. It is a place where fans can pay tribute to the poet. This experience is unforgettable.
Tickets to Pablo Neruda's houses include audio guides in Portuguese. They are limited per day. Therefore, when visiting Santiago, include these houses in your itinerary. Get to know the charming Bellavista neighborhood too. You will have an incredible time.
| Home | Location | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|
| La Chascona | Santiago | 7 thousand Chilean pesos per ticket |
| La Sebastiana | Valparaiso | Panoramic view of the sea, the poet's personal objects on display |
| Isla Negra House | El Quisco | Free tomb and gardens, boat carcasses and miniature collections |
Discover a winery and the wine production process
Visiting a winery in Santiago, Chile, is an incredible adventure for anyone who loves wine. With more than 400 wineries in the country, tourists have 150 options to visit. This is only in the region close to Santiago.
In the Santiago region, wineries come in three different types, depending on their distance from the city. They range from nearby to those a little further away. This means that it is possible to find both well-known wineries and small special wineries.
Concha y Toro is one of the best-known wineries in Chile. It is the largest in Latin America and ships wines to 170 countries. Visitors can take tours that include tasting the delicious wines produced there.
Another mandatory stop is at the Undurraga Winery, the second most visited in Chile. Your tour is complete, showing everything from the gardens to the production. And of course, visitors have the chance to taste exclusive wines.
Santa Rita Winery is also a great choice. It offers complete tours and different experiences, such as carriage rides. A historic site, where a Chilean hero hid during the country's independence.
The Errazuriz Winery is impressive. It is considered one of the most beautiful in Chile. Offering unique wines, it stands out for having five special wines in its production.
For those interested in organic wines, Vinícola Emiliana is ideal. It is the largest in the world in organic production. There, wines are made respecting nature, without chemical fertilizers.
The best time to visit these places is from February to April. During this period, known as “harvest”, the grapes are ready to be harvested. This is when the process of making wine begins.
If you are near Santiago, take the metro, taxi or bus. There is no need to schedule visits in advance. However, to make the most of it, it's a good idea to use a tour guide or go on your own.
For those who truly love wine, the Wine Route is perfect. You will be able to discover the best wineries in Casablanca and Colchagua. A tour to discover the most varied flavors of high quality wines.
Valparaíso + Viña del Mar
Valparaíso and Viña del Mar are coastal cities near Santiago, Chile. Valparaíso is a World Heritage Site known for its colorful hills. Its steep streets offer beautiful views of the ocean.
The Port of Valparaíso has a rich history. The city is also home to the Maritime Museum and Cerro Alegre. This hill has a lot of street art and galleries to visit.
Viña del Mar is famous for its beaches and the Flower Clock. It is an important place for industry, with shipyards and arsenals. Tourists love the unique atmosphere of these places.
Valparaíso and Viña del Mar are 130 km from Santiago. Many tourists choose a day trip to get to know them. But one day is not enough to see everything they offer. So here's a tip: reserve one or two nights to fully enjoy the cities, with their culture, beaches and great food.
| Valparaiso | Viña del Mar |
|---|---|
| The Port of Valparaíso is the main port in Chile. | Muelle Vergara in Viña del Mar was built in 1892 and underwent a restoration project at the end of 2016. |
| The city has more than 40 hills, such as Cerro Alegre, full of street art and art galleries. | Playa de Los Marineros in Viña del Mar is located in front of the Chilean Navy Storage School. |
| The Casa La Sebastiana Museum, which belonged to the poet Pablo Neruda, is one of the main tourist attractions. | Parrilladas El Gaucho is a restaurant recommended for groups of three or more people. |
| Cervecería Altamira in Valparaíso produces seven varieties of craft beers. | The Fauna restaurant in Valparaíso is considered the place of the moment and requires reservations to visit. |
Valparaíso and Viña del Mar combine culture, history, beautiful landscapes and good food. These are charming cities for your Chile itinerary. Don't forget to visit them.
Sky Costanera – The tallest tower in Latin America
Sky Costanera is an attraction in Santiago de Chile. It is on the top floor of the tallest tower in Latin America. It offers an incredible 360-degree view of the city.
Designed by Cesar Pelli, they started building it in 2006 and finished it in 2013. Today, it is an icon of the city, attracting visitors from all over the world.
The observation deck has two floors of glass. From there, you see Santiago and the Andes. You can appreciate the beauty of the city in all directions.
The observation deck opens from 10am to 9pm, with the last lift at 8pm. Arriving early is a good idea to make the most of it.
The price varies, being cheaper during the week. Children aged 4 to 12 pay less. You can buy online or on the spot.
Watching the sunset from up there is incredible. The city turns golden, leaving everyone in awe. Schedules change with the seasons.
It's a good idea to check the weather before going. Fog or rain can obscure vision.
Going to Sky Costanera is easy by metro, Uber or on foot. The nearest station is Tobalaba, on the red line. There are many transport options.
The location also has the Costanera Mall. There are famous stores, hotels and offices there. It makes the visit even more interesting.
The Sky Costanera is a mandatory stop in Santiago. With an incredible view, it offers a special experience. Be sure to visit when you are in the Chilean capital.
Bahá'í Temple
The Bahá'í Temple is in Santiago de Chile. It is a special place, open since 2016. Its architecture surprises with a flower-shaped dome. It has nine petals and doors for each direction of the world. It's a sight to behold.
Hariri Pontarini Architects, from Canada, designed the project. Siamak Hariri led the team. In 2017, they won an award for this work in architectural innovation.
The temple is for prayers and peaceful thoughts. People of any religion are welcome here. It offers a calm place to look at Santiago.
It is located at Av. Diagonal Las Torres, 2000, in a quiet neighborhood. Open from Tuesday to Sunday. It is a place where people can feel at peace.
To visit, there are transport options. Uber is one of them, until 5pm. It costs around $10,000 (R$60.00) from the city to there.
Metro line 1 takes you to Los Dominicos. Then use the D11 bus to get close to the temple. A 1.5km uphill walk will be necessary.
The Bahá'í Temple is a jewel of Santiago. Its dome is 30 meters high and shines brightly. A charming garden surrounds you, inviting peace.
Photos inside the temple are not permitted. This helps keep the environment sacred. Still, the place is perfect for seeking tranquility.
Entry to the Bahá'í Temple is free for everyone. There is parking there, making it easier for visitors to arrive.
Cajón del Maipo – a must-see outside of winter
Cajón del Maipo is just an hour from Santiago, in the most beautiful part of the Andes. The landscapes are breathtaking and there is a lot to do outdoors. It is an incredible destination for anyone in the capital of Chile.
In winter, between June and September, the place becomes a white paradise. There, you can ski and snowboard. Valle Nevado, the largest ski resort in South America, is the highlight.
But even without snow, the place is beautiful. It's great for those who love adventure and nature. There are trails, cycling adventures and the beautiful Embalse el Yeso. There, you can see an incredible lake, looked after by a local company, Aguas Andinas.
At Embalse el Yeso, the views are wonderful, surrounded by the Andes. The temperature depends on the season, but can reach 8ºC. In winter, the path may be covered in snow. So, you need to walk a little further to see the lake.
The tour usually starts early and goes until the afternoon. It's a full day of adventure. Going with a travel agency is safer, because the area is remote and does not receive a GPS signal without Wi-Fi.
It is important to say that the Embalse del Yeso was closed due to a serious accident, where two children died. But now, it has security measures to protect visitors during the tour.
Activities in Cajón del Maipo:
- Explore stunning trails and landscapes
- Bike tours
- Visit to Embalse el Yeso
- Practicing winter sports during the snow season
Regardless of the season, Cajón del Maipo is incredible. For those who want adventure and being close to nature, it is the ideal place. Don't miss this wonder during your trip to Santiago de Chile.
Other tourist attractions
Santiago de Chile has much more to see than the places already mentioned. There is a huge variety of attractions. You will be surprised by everything the city has to offer.
Araucano Park
Parque Araucano, in Las Condes, is really beautiful. It is known for its natural beauty and safety. It has large spaces with lawns, lakes, trails and a food court. It's a great place to relax or have a picnic.
Central Market
For those who love food, Mercado Central is ideal. There you will find 241 stores with fresh seafood. Don't miss the chance to try thecentolla, a giant crab. There are also restaurants with typical Chilean dishes.
Chilean Museum of Pre-Colombian Art
The Chilean Museum of Precolombino Art showcases the history of Latin America. Its collection includes ancient art from regions such as Chile, Peru, Mexico and Colombia. The exhibits tell about ancient civilizations in a fascinating way.
Mirador Interactive Museum (MIM)
The Mirador Interactive Museum is ideal for families and those who love science. Offers more than 350 experiments that explore physics, biology, mathematics and more. It's a fun place to learn new things.
Viña del Mar and Valparaíso
If you have time, visit Viña del Mar and Valparaíso. Viña is known for beautiful beaches and a casino. Valparaíso, in turn, has colorful hills and street art. Both present a rich mix of culture, history and natural beauty.
Santiago has a lot to offer in terms of tourism. There are options for all tastes, from history to cuisine. Take the opportunity to explore everything the city has to show.
The best neighborhoods to stay in Santiago de Chile
Santiago de Chile has several great neighborhoods to stay. Examples are Centro, Lastarria, Providencia, Las Condes and Bellavista. Each has its advantages. It is essential to choose the right neighborhood for what you like and need.
Providencia neighborhood
Providencia is a top neighborhood to stay in Santiago. It is close to metro stations such as Pedro de Valdivia and Los Leones. There, you can find everything from cheaper accommodation to luxury boutique hotels.
The Accor hotel chain is well known there. Novotel Providencia, for example, is rated three stars and well praised. The Hotel Boutique Le Reve, in Providencia, enchants with elegant rooms and a continental breakfast.
Also in Providencia, there is Solace Santiago. A 4-star hotel, it combines elegance with facilities such as a swimming pool and gym. The place also has a Mediterranean food restaurant and a lounge with a vertical garden.
Las Condes and Vitacura neighborhood
Las Condes and Vitacura are noble and luxurious areas of Santiago. Those who enjoy quality hotels will find several options here. These neighborhoods are safe and attract tourists and business people who want to be close to everything.
The Ibis Santiago Las Condes Manquehue is a good budget choice. It is close to tourist attractions and shopping malls. If you prefer to stay close to restaurants and shops, Plaza El Bosque Ebro is a good value for money alternative. The Pullman Santiago el Bosque has a privileged location for a comfortable stay.
For something more luxurious, we suggest the Courtyard by Marriott Santiago Las Condes. With its views of the mountains, the hotel is close to attractions such as Parque Arauco and the Open Plaza shopping mall.
Bellavista Neighborhood
Bellavista, in the center of Santiago, is famous for its nightlife. There is the well-known Patio Bellavista, full of bars and restaurants. It's perfect if you love being in the middle of animation.
Centro Neighborhood
The center of Santiago is an excellent option for those who want to be close to the main attractions. In addition, it offers more affordable accommodation options and the best public transport network.
In the central area, Bellas Artes and Lastarria stand out. Bellas Artes is ideal for those who want to stay close to the Historic Center and Lastarria. Lastarria, considered the best central area, has a European atmosphere and stands out for its culture and vibrant nightlife.
When deciding where to stay in Santiago, think about your preference for location and type of accommodation. With many charming options everywhere, you are sure to find a perfect place for your moment in the city.
The best times to visit Santiago de Chile
Santiago de Chile is always good to visit, but there are ideal moments. Let's see the best times to visit the city:
- Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March to May): Spring and autumn are perfect in Santiago. Temperatures are mild, between 15°C and 25°C. The weather is pleasant and the landscapes are full of colors. Take the opportunity to visit outdoor places, such as Parque Forestal.
- Winter (June to August): Winter is the season for snow sports. In Cajón del Maipo, near Santiago, you find snow. Don't miss the chance to go skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing. Valle Nevado, the main ski resort, is very popular at this time.
- Summer (December to February): Summer in Santiago is hot, between 25°C and 35°C. It's the best time to enjoy beaches and parks. Be sure to relax in Viña del Mar and Valparaíso. Wineries, like Viña Concha y Toro, are buzzing with activity. You can learn about wine and have tastings.
The best time to visit Santiago depends on what you prefer. For those who like mild weather, spring and autumn are great. If you love winter sports, choose winter to go. For those who prefer beaches and outdoor activities, summer is ideal. But even outside these seasons, Santiago always has something special to show.
Conclusion
Santiago de Chile is an incredible place to visit. Especially for Brazilians who want to see variety in South America. There, there are many things to do, which fit into various price ranges.
The city can be a little expensive compared to others in South America. But there are good options for those who want to save money. For example, eating at places that serve full menus or visiting central markets. In these markets, it is possible to eat well without spending a lot.
Those looking for cheaper accommodation will find options at hostels. They are more affordable than hotels, especially in areas like Providencia or Las Condes. Additionally, Couchsurfing can be an economical alternative to staying in Santiago.
To have the best experience in the city, the ideal is to mix activities. Choose from the many free attractions, such as the changing of the guard at La Moneda Palace. And also paid tours, such as visits to the Cajón del Maipo and famous wineries. If you plan to go in October, it's a good idea, as you can still see snow on some mountains.
Santiago not only has a beautiful landscape, but also many interesting places to visit. Spots like Cerro San Cristóbal and Sky Costanera are unmissable. There are several museums and parks too. With all this, Brazilians will certainly love the city.
