Santiago Chile Travel Guide: 12 BEST Things to do in Santiago

With its rich history, stunning natural surroundings, and vibrant culture, Santiago is an exciting destination for travelers looking for a variety of activities. Here are 12 things to do in Santiago that will help you experience all that this city has to offer. 12. Climb Santa Lucia Hill Climbing Santa Lucia Hill is a must-do activity for tourists visiting Santiago, Chile. Located in the heart of the city, this historic park offers a unique and enjoyable way to experience Santiago's natural beauty and rich history. The hill is home to a number of interesting attractions, including a castle, a monument, and a lookout point with stunning views of the capital city. The winding pathways that lead to the top of the hill are perfect for a leisurely stroll, and the funicular railway offers a quicker ascent for those short on time. Once at the top, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Santiago and the surrounding mountains, as well as the opportunity to relax in the peaceful gardens and green spaces. 11. Seek out Santiago's Street Art Santiago's street art scene is vibrant and diverse, reflecting the city's cultural and political history. Strolling through the streets of Santiago, you'll find an abundance of colorful murals, graffiti, and street art that showcase the talent and creativity of local artists. One of the best places to see street art in Santiago is the Barrio Bellavista neighborhood, where you'll find a mix of traditional and modern murals painted on the walls of buildings and houses. The artwork in this neighborhood often reflects the cultural identity and history of Chile, as well as current political and social issues. Exploring Santiago's street art can also be a great way to get to know the city and its neighborhoods. You'll have the opportunity to see parts of the city that you might not otherwise visit, and you'll get a sense of the city's culture and character. 10. Visit the Striking Santiago Baha'i Temple The Santiago Baha'i Temple, also known as the Mother Temple of South America, is a stunning architectural masterpiece and a spiritual oasis in the heart of Santiago. It is a place of peace and contemplation, where people of all backgrounds and beliefs are welcome to meditate, pray, and learn about the Baha'i faith. One of the main attractions of the temple is its unique design, which combines elements of traditional Baha'i architecture with modern influences. The nine sides of the temple represent the unity of the world's religions, and the surrounding gardens and water features create a peaceful and serene atmosphere. It is a must-see destination for anyone interested in spirituality, architecture, or cultural exchange. 9. Take in Santiago's Plaza de Armas Located in the heart of the city, the Plaza de Armas is a bustling hub of activity and a great place to people-watch and soak up the local culture. One of the highlights of the Plaza de Armas is the elegant colonial-style architecture that surrounds it. The plaza is home to a number of historic buildings, including the National History Museum, the Central Post Office, and the National Library. These buildings are adorned with stunning neoclassical details and are worth a visit on their own. The plaza is also home to a number of street performers, vendors, and artisans who add to the lively atmosphere of the plaza. You'll find everything from musicians and dancers to painters and craftspeople showcasing their talents. 8. See the Santiago Metropolitan Cathedral The Santiago Metropolitan Cathedral is an impressive and historic religious building located in the heart of the city. The cathedral, which dates back to the 18th century, is a stunning example of neoclassical architecture. It is adorned with exquisite marble details, ornate frescoes, and intricate stained glass windows. The interior of the cathedral is equally impressive, with a grandiose altar, beautiful chapels, and a richly decorated dome. The Santiago Metropolitan Cathedral is also a significant cultural and historical site. It is the seat of the Archbishop of Santiago and has played a central role in the city's spiritual and cultural life for centuries. 7. Eat local food at the Central Market Eating local food at the Central Market in Santiago is a great way to immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of Chile. The market is a bustling hub of activity, filled with fresh, locally grown produce and ingredients, as well as a variety of traditional Chilean dishes. By eating local food at the Central Market, you'll have the opportunity to try new and unique flavors and ingredients that you may not find at other restaurants. Additionally, by supporting local vendors and small businesses, you'll be contributing to the local economy and helping to sustain the community. Plus, the Central Market is a great place to meet locals and learn more about their culture and way of life. By the way, if you want to learn how to save money on airfares, then click the link in the description below. This guide will teach you how to always get the cheapest flights. 6. See the Changing of the Guards Ceremony Palacio de la Moneda is the official residence of the President of Chile and is a popular tourist attraction in Santiago. Visitors can watch the Changing of the Guards, a ceremony that takes place daily at noon, and admire the magnificent neoclassical architecture of the palace. The ceremony is a traditional military tradition that dates back to the early 19th century, and it is a spectacle to behold. The guards are dressed in traditional military uniforms and perform precise drills and maneuvers as they change places. The ceremony is accompanied by a military band and plays a selection of 5. Visit Pablo Neruda's House Pablo Neruda was a renowned Chilean poet, diplomat, and political activist who is considered one of the greatest poets of the 20th century. His house, known as La Chascona, is located in the Bellavista neighborhood of Santiago, and was one of three homes that Neruda built for himself and his muse. La Chascona is a stunning example of Neruda's creativity and taste, with a blend of styles and influences from traditional Chilean, European, and Asian elements. It's filled with his personal collections of art, books, and objects from around the world. La Chascona is also a testament to Neruda's love for his country, because it is decorated with Chilean folk art and crafts. It has been preserved as a museum and is open to the public, allowing visitors to explore the poet's private spaces and learn more about his life and work. 4. Take a Cable Car Up San Cristobal Hill San Cristobal Hill is a popular tourist destination that offers breathtaking panoramic views of Santiago and the surrounding area. The cable car ride up the hill is a thrilling and scenic experience in itself, and once you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the city and the Andes Mountains. There are also several attractions at the top of the hill, including a statue of the Virgin Mary, a chapel, and a wildlife sanctuary where you can see llamas, foxes, and other native animals. 3. Check Out the Mesmerizing Santiago Cemetery The Santiago General Cemetery might not seem like a typical tourist destination, but it's actually a fascinating and mesmerizing place to visit. It houses a wide variety of stunning architectural styles, including Art Deco, Art Nouveau, Neoclassical, and Gothic. The cemetery houses the graves of some of Chile's most famous and influential figures, including writers, politicians, and military leaders. The memorial of Salvador Allende, who was ousted as president of Chile in 1973 in a coup, is perhaps the most visited. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cemetery to learn more about the history and culture of Santiago, or simply wander around and admire the beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings. 2. Visit the Highest Observation Point in South America The Sky Costanera is an observation deck located on the top floor of the Gran Torre Santiago, the tallest building in Latin America. Visiting Sky Costanera is an opportunity to experience the modern side of Santiago and get a unique perspective on the city from above. From here, you can see all the way to the Andes Mountains on a clear day, and take in the city's bustling streets and towering skyscrapers. The building itself is a feat of modern architecture and engineering, and the observation deck offers 360-degree views of the surrounding cityscape. 1. Tour to Cajon del Maipo Located just outside of Santiago, the Cajon del Maipo is known for its rugged mountain landscapes, crystal-clear rivers, and beautiful valleys. One of the main attractions in Cajon del Maipo is the opportunity to go hiking or horseback riding through the stunning landscape. There are a variety of trails to choose from, ranging from easy to challenging, so there's something for everyone. The scenery is breathtaking, with snow-capped mountains, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests providing the perfect backdrop for your adventure. Cajon del Maipo is also home to a number of charming small towns and villages that offer a glimpse into traditional Chilean culture. Here, you'll find artisanal crafts, locally produced food and wine, and friendly locals who are happy to share their way of life with visitors. Click here for more tips while traveling in Chile!