Santiago - Discovering Chile

Travelling to Santiago

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Santiago, a pretty good destination in Chile (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Santiago and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Santiago, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Chile, here's everything to know about Santiago for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Santiago

Santiago is the capital and largest city of Chile, located in the central part of the country. It is surrounded by the Andes mountains and boasts a population of over 7 million people. Santiago is known for its vibrant cultural scene, historical landmarks, and modern architecture, as well as its delicious food and world-renowned wine. The city is home to numerous museums, galleries, and theaters, making it a hub for arts and entertainment, and it also offers great opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and biking. The city has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers, making it an attractive destination to visit year-round.

What to visit in Santiago

1. Cerro San Cristobal: A hill located within the heart of Santiago with great views of the city. You can reach the top by foot or by taking the funicular.
2. La Moneda Palace: It’s the seat of the president of Chile and its striking architecture and history make it a must-visit site. Guided tours are available.
3. Plaza de Armas: This historical square is surrounded by significant buildings such as the Metropolitan Cathedral, Central Post Office, and the National History Museum.
4. Patio Bellavista: It’s a charming artsy neighborhood with colorful buildings, trendy boutiques, and restaurants. 5. Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art: Located in the heart of Santiago, it’s home to treasures of indigenous art and culture. 6. Parque Bicentenario: This large urban park is a popular spot for outdoor activities and has a big lake where you can rent paddle boats. 7. Barrio Lastarria: It’s a historic neighborhood with quaint streets, bohemian cafes, art galleries, and antique shops. 8. Mercado Central: The central market is a foodie haven! Here visitors can experience the local cuisine and taste fresh seafood. 9. Metropolitan Park: This is another huge park located in the city, it has lush gardens and hiking trails. 10. Santa Lucia Hill: Located in the city center, it’s a small hill with a castle-like structure that provides excellent views. These are just a few of many tourist attractions in Santiago, Chile. Visitors can enjoy a variety of cultural, historical, and natural experiences in this vibrant city.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Chile, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Santiago.

When to go on holiday to Santiago

The best time to visit Santiago, Chile is from September to November or from March to May. During these months, the weather is mild and comfortable, with clear skies and fewer crowds. However, if you are looking for outdoor activities like hiking and skiing, the winter months of June to August are ideal as there are several nearby ski resorts. Keep in mind that Santiago can get quite hot and crowded during the summer months of December to February, so it's best to plan accordingly.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Santiago

There are a few different ways to get to Santiago, Chile, depending on your starting point.
1. By air: Santiago has an international airport, the Comodoro Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport (SCL), which receives direct flights from cities all over the world. You can check flight schedules and prices on websites like Skyscanner or Kayak.
2. By bus: Santiago is also accessible by bus from other major cities in Chile, as well as from neighboring countries such as Argentina and Peru. The main bus terminal in Santiago is called Terminal Santiago.
3. By car: If you're driving to Santiago, you can enter Chile via one of its border crossings with neighboring countries. You'll need to have your vehicle papers in order and be prepared for a long drive, as it can take several days to drive from some border towns to Santiago.
4. By train: While train travel in Chile is not as popular as other forms of transportation, there are a few train routes that you can take to Santiago, such as the "Tren Alameda" which connects Santiago to nearby towns like Talagante and Melipilla.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Santiago, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Santiago

Sure, here are some typical foods from Santiago, Chile: 1. Completo: This is a hot dog that's loaded with toppings, including mayonnaise, sauerkraut, tomato, avocado, and mustard.
2. Empanadas: These are savory pastries filled with a variety of ingredients such as meat, cheese, or vegetables. Empanadas are a popular snack or lunch option.
3. Cazuela: This is a hearty, stew-like soup made with beef, vegetables, and potatoes. It's often served with a side of rice.
4. Chilenitos: These are small, sweet, sandwich-like cookies filled with dulce de leche, a caramel-like sauce.
5. Pastel de choclo: This is a savory pie made with ground beef or chicken, onions, and raisins, topped with a layer of mashed corn.
6. Sopaipillas: These are fried dough pockets that are often eaten as a snack or in a soup. They can be served with pebre, a pico de gallo-like salsa.
7. Mote con huesillo: This is a traditional summer drink made with cooked wheat, dried peaches, and cinnamon. It's often sold by street vendors.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
You can find general info about typical foods in Chile here.

Is Santiago an expensive destination for tourists?

Santiago, Chile can be considered an expensive destination for tourists, especially compared to other destinations in South America. However, it is also important to note that the cost of your trip will largely depend on your budget and travel style. If you are looking to stay in luxury hotels, dine out at high-end restaurants and take private tours, then Santiago can be quite expensive. On the other hand, if you are willing to stay in budget-friendly accommodations, eat at local restaurants and use public transportation to get around, you can definitely save money and still have a great time in Santiago. Overall, Santiago is a beautiful and vibrant city with plenty to see and do, and with some careful planning, you can enjoy it without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Santiago

There are several areas in Santiago, Chile that are great for finding accommodations. Some of the most popular areas for visitors include: 1. Bellavista: a bohemian neighborhood with a vibrant nightlife, numerous restaurants and bars, and proximity to popular attractions like Cerro San Cristobal.
2. Providencia: a trendy and upscale neighborhood with a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, and close to attractions like Parque Bicentenario and Barrio Italia.
3. Centro: the downtown area of Santiago with numerous museums and historic landmarks like La Moneda Presidential Palace, Plaza de Armas, and Mercado Central.
4. Las Condes: an affluent residential and commercial neighborhood with upscale shopping centers like Costanera Center, Parque Araucano, and Parque Bicentenario Oriente.
5. Lastarria: a charming and historic neighborhood with a bohemian vibe, great restaurants, and close to attractions like Museo de Bellas Artes and Cerro Santa Lucia. These areas offer different styles of accommodations, from luxury hotels and apartments to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses.
You can check hotel prices at Santiago here:
Booking.com

Is Santiago a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Santiago is generally a safe place for tourists, but like in any big city, it is always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially in tourist areas where pickpocketing can be common. It is also recommended to avoid certain areas at night and to use taxis or ride-sharing apps instead of walking alone. Additionally, it is always a good idea to research the specific neighborhoods and areas of Santiago you plan to visit and to ask locals or your hotel staff for recommendations and advice.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Chile here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Santiago.

What type of travelers will enjoy Santiago the most?

Santiago, Chile is a city that caters to all kinds of travelers, but depending on your interests, some groups may enjoy it more than others.
Couples looking for a romantic getaway will appreciate Santiago's historic downtown filled with colonial architecture, delicious restaurants, and plenty of wine tasting opportunities in nearby vineyards.
Young people looking for fun will enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife, filled with bars and clubs that cater to all tastes, and alternative neighborhoods like Bellavista and Lastarria that offer great food, music, and cultural experiences.
Families with kids will also find Santiago very enjoyable as there are many family-friendly activities such as amusement parks, museums, and local beaches just a short drive away. Additionally, the parks and gardens within the city such as Parque Bicentenario or Parque Araucano are perfect for outdoor activities and picnics.
Overall, whether you are a couple, young person or family, Santiago has something to offer for everyone.

How to get around Santiago

In Santiago (Chile), there are several transportation options to move around the city, such as: 1. Metro: Santiago has a modern metro system, affordable, clean, safe, and efficient. It covers most of the tourist spots in the city.
2. Bus: Santiago has a vast network of public buses. You can pay cash (coins only) or use a rechargeable card called "Bip!".
3. Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Santiago, and they are a convenient option, especially at night or when other public transport is not available. Use only official taxis or apps like Uber, Cabify, or Beat.
4. Bicycle: Santiago has a well-built bikeway infrastructure that makes bicycling a safe and eco-friendly transportation option.
5. Walking: Santiago is a pedestrian-friendly city, and walking is the perfect way to explore the city's neighborhoods, plazas, and parks.

What to see around Santiago

Sure, here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from Santiago, Chile: 1. Valparaiso: This vibrant port city is known for its colourful houses, street art, and picturesque hillside neighbourhoods. It's just a 1.5-hour drive from Santiago.
2. Cajon del Maipo: If you're looking for outdoor adventure, Cajon del Maipo is a great place to go hiking, white-water rafting or horseback riding. It's only an hour's drive from Santiago.
3. Embalse el Yeso: This stunning reservoir lake is surrounded by the Andes mountains and makes for a great day trip destination. It's only a 2-hour drive from Santiago.
4. Isla Negra and Pablo Neruda's House: If you're a fan of literature, a visit to the seaside town of Isla Negra and Pablo Neruda's House is a must. The poet's house is filled with fascinating objects that Neruda collected throughout his life.
5. Santa Cruz: This charming town in the Colchagua Valley is famous for its vineyards and wineries. You can spend the day tasting wine, exploring the town, and enjoying the beautiful scenery.
For every travel information about Chile you can click here.

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