10 Incredible Things to Do in Santiago Chile You Shouldn’t Miss

Santiago in Chile is one of the famous South American capital cities, located just over an hour from the Pacific Ocean. With our detailed list of 10 amazing things to do in Santiago Chile, we are going to prove why this vibrant city is more than just a stopover.

Exploring 10 Unique Things to Do in Santiago Chile

The memorable nightlife scenes, bit of neighborhoods, colonial buildings and political history of this city is truly worth-exploring. Not only this, the food scene with both international excellent cuisine and Italian cuisine would really make your experience super-special.

Keep reading to know what this city has to offer to tourists.

1. Visit San Cristóbal Hill

For some of the best city views, visit San Cristóbal Hill in late afternoon. You can get to the top through three ways i.e., hiking, taking the funicular or taking a cable car. The cable car is the most expensive options among three but worth the try.

The San Cristóbal Hill stands 3,000 feet above from earth. When you reach at the top, you will enjoy spectacular views of different places in the city and visit botanical garden and national parks. If you want to do hiking, it is good to prepare your mind and body because this is not too easy to take hike.

How Long Does it Take to Walk Up?

• Minimum 40-45 minutes

Operating Hours

• 6 a.m. until 7 p.m. daily

2. Explore Plaza de Armas

Plaza de Armas is basically a term used for “square of weapons”, the concept behind this city dates back hundreds of years. One notable sight at Plaza de Armas is the Palacio de la Real Audiencia de Santiago (beautiful royal palace).

Must visit this historical building to explore historical significance. It’s surrounding feature emblematic buildings, city’s origin symbols and past stories. Despite it’s cultural and historical significance, a fun place for kids and families to enjoy other activities too.

Hours

• Open 24/7, you can visit anytime.

3. Discover La Moneda Palace

No place in Santiago has as much historical as the La Moneda Palace. Exploring this place is one of the perfect free things to do in Santiago Chile. Now this place is under Chilean government and they own. You can go inside as inner courtyards are open to the public.

This famous building has organized various events during colonial times like 1973 military coup. While exploring, visitors can experience different things like exploring the cultural spaces, watch the changing of guards and cultural tradition that showcases the country’s military values.

How Much Does it Cost to Enter?

• Free but they charge for tours and exhibitions within on-site cultural center.

Best Time of the Day to Visit

• Late morning or early evening is the best time.

4. Wander Through Barrio Bellavista

Barrio Bellavista is basically a famous neighborhood that is located between the Mapocho River and San Cristóbal Hill. This is known as Santiago’s Bohemian quarter and wander through here is one of the best things to do in Santiago Chile at night.

This South America place offers art, gastronomy, unique culture and traditions. Also, this place comes with art museums, galleries, boutique shops and more. This place has been visited by both national and international tourists every year.

5. Tour the Museum of Memory and Human Rights

Back in 1973 and 1990, there were human rights violations committed by the Chilean state. The mission of this museum is to allow dignity for victims and their families while paying tribute to them. Its purpose is to promote educational initiatives among tourists and locals.

Inside the museum, you will see various collections, exhibitions, spaces and auditorium. All these parts are famous for preserving old history and promoting educational initiatives how human rights violations were conducted in back 19s.

Spaces

• Explanade
• Café
• Gift Shop
• Memory Gallery

6. Hike Cerro Santa Lucía

What to do in Santiago, Chile for a day? Hiking the Cerro Santa Lucía is one of the memorable experiences that you can’t forget ever in your life. This is basically a 1.3-km loop trail generally considered as moderately challenging route.

This area is not only famous for hiking but also for running and walking so you may see other people while hiking. Dogs are welcome on this trail but must be on leash. Cerro Santa Lucía park is a famous nearby park here so do not forget to visit this park.

How long does it take to climb?

• 23 mins to complete.

Is Cerro Santa Lucia free?

• Yes, it’s completely free.

7. Visit the Central Market (Mercado Central)

Going to Santiago Central Market is one of the best things to do in Santiago, Chile with kids. This market is famous for diverse selection of fresh seafood including fish, shellfish, and crustaceans. Also, it is famous for unique metal architectural and historical significance.

You can buy crafts, souvenirs, clothing, fruits, vegetables, species to local food in this market. As a tourist, this is the best way to explore local market’s culture of Santiago along with local craftsmanship and other local goods.

Opened

• August 23,1872

Opening Days & Hours

• Monday-Friday:  6 AM–10 PM
• Saturday: 7 AM–10 PM
• Sunday: 9 AM–10 PM

8. Take a Wine Tour Near Santiago

One of the best things to do Chile is wine tasting near Santiago. Day trips to Maipo, Casablanca, or Colchagua valleys are memorable and special one for wine lovers. Concha y Toro and Santa Rita, Casablanca Valley, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay are few of the famous wineries.

You can take both private and small group tours which often include winery visits, tastings, and some may include food pairings or scenic drives. Popular tours can fill up quickly so book in advance to secure your bookings.

Closest Wine Region to Santiago

• Maipo Valley
• Best Wine Region in Chile
• The Colchagua Valley

9. Experience the Local Food Scene

The Chilean dishes are not only rich in taste but also comes with affordability. The local street food of Santiago is like something more delicious and tastier with unique South America tapestry flavors. The city offers something to every foodie who want to enjoy unique taste.

Must-Try Chilean Dishes

• Empanadas
• Pastel de Choclo
• Completo

Where to Eat in Santiago?

• Mercado Central
• Barrio Bellavista
• Street Food Stalls

Not-to-Miss Drinks

• Pisco Sour
• Mote con Huesillo
• Chilean Wine

10. Explore the Museums in Quinta Normal Park

Quinta Normal Park is located just west of Southwest downtown Santiago. Quinta Normal Park is a space with tallest buildings, museums, green space, urban park and panoramic views. Because of major city area, there are historic buildings too.

Despite all, the museums are worth exploring because the real charm exists in them. Take a look at museums that you can visit in this park.

• Museo Ferroviario
• Museo Nacional de Historia Natural
• Museo de Ciencia y Tecnología
• useo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos

Other Things to Do in the Park

• Rent a pedal boat in the lagoon.
• Enjoy an outdoor picnic under the trees.
• Catch a street performance or art exhibit.

Summing Up!

Santiago Chile does have some of the best activities, things to do and memories. if you are traveling to Chile, this guide helps you a lot in planning your itinerary like what to do in Santiago.

All these 10 things to do in Santiago Chile are worth-exploring and can be tried in just one day. While you are in South America or not, Santiago should not be missed at any cost.

Frequently Asked Questions