Top 23 Activities and Attractions in Santiago, Chile

If you are looking for the best things to do in Santiago, you’ve come to the right place. We spent five days seeing all the top attractions in Santiago before our Exodus Travels tour of Chile. Even though we visited the Atacama Desert, Patagonia, and more, we fell in love with Santiago the most. It’s such a fun city filled with energy and excitement.

Santiago, Chile is a huge city in South America with plenty of activities available. Whether you’re interested in culture, gastronomy, or history, there’s something for everyone. We fell in love with the capital city of Chile and even managed to meet President Gabriel Boric during our stay. Read on to see how that happened.

Top Things to Do in Santiago

Here are our top picks for things to do in Santiago, Chile:

1. Plaza de Armas

If it’s your first time in Santiago, make your way to the main meeting place in the city. Plaza de Armas is the main square and a popular place for locals and tourists to gather. The plaza is surrounded by important landmarks, including the Cathedral, Presidential Palace, National Museum, and more.

The square itself is beautiful, featuring fountains, palm trees, green space, outdoor terraces, and street performers. It’s also a great spot to grab some food or souvenirs before heading out on your adventure!

2. Santiago Metropolitan Cathedral

One must-visit landmark at Plaza de Armas is the Santiago Metropolitan Cathedral, built from 1872 to 1904 based on designs by French architect Paul Chenavard. This cathedral features stunning architecture and magnificent stained glass windows depicting scenes from Chilean history. Enter respectfully, as it is an active place of worship, but make sure to explore this serene refuge from the heat of Santiago.

3. Cerro Santa Lucia (Santa Lucía Hill)

Cerro Santa Lucia is a popular spot in Santiago for walking and taking in the views. Located in the city’s center, the hill is surrounded by museums, shops, and restaurants.

Visiting at sunset provides stunning views of Santiago illuminated below and a glimpse of the Andes. The area offers old forts, a chapel, and exquisite gardens to explore, making it a wonderful way to spend an afternoon.

4. San Cristóbal Hill (Cerro San Cristóbal)

San Cristóbal Hill, at 860 meters high, provides breathtaking 360-degree views of Santiago. While it can be challenging to find an unobstructed view at the top, many viewpoints are available along the way. It’s a great spot for sunset overlooking the business district’s skyscrapers.

5. Teleférico or Funicular

You can reach San Cristóbal Hill via two methods: the funicular from Barrio Bella Vista or the teleférico (cable car) from Metropolitan Park. Each offers a unique experience; the funicular is steep and takes you through lively neighborhoods, while the cable car provides an easier route through beautiful parks.

6. Metropolitan Park of Santiago

One of the largest urban parks in Latin America, Metropolitan Park of Santiago features San Cristobal Hill at its center. The park includes a zoo, botanical gardens, swimming pools, and various hiking trails, ideal for families and nature lovers alike.

7. Sky Costanera

Located in the Costanera Center shopping mall, Sky Costanera occupies the 61st floor and is one of the tallest buildings in South America. It offers spectacular panoramic views of the Andes and allows visitors to enjoy cocktails while taking in the sunset.

8. Costanera Center

The surrounding financial district features a massive shopping center with a variety of stores and dining options, from fine Chilean wine to international cuisines. It’s a perfect place for shopping enthusiasts.

9. Palacio de la Moneda (La Moneda Palace)

Home to the Chilean government since 1837, La Moneda Palace is an architectural marvel that serves as a national monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guided tours allow visitors to explore its history, while the gardens provide a pleasant place for a picnic.

10. Palacio La Moneda Cultural Center

Constructed underground to preserve the surroundings of the Presidential Palace, this cultural center houses cafes, rotating exhibitions, museums, and boutique shops, perfect for those seeking a unique experience.

11. Barrio Bellavista

For vibrant nightlife, Barrio Bellavista is the prime destination. Filled with bars and restaurants, this neighborhood showcases stunning street art that adds to its lively atmosphere.

12. Central Market

The Central Market is an ideal place to eat fresh food, purchase souvenirs, and enjoy the beautiful architecture of this 1872 building, which features a diverse array of vendors.

13. Emporio La Rosa

This renowned ice cream shop is known for its diverse flavors, including unique local options. With several locations, it’s worth visiting for a mountain of delicious ice cream after a day of exploration.

14. La Chascona – Pablo Neruda Museum

Visit the home of renowned Chilean poet Pablo Neruda, where his personal items, books, and art are displayed. This charming museum, located in the artistic neighborhood of Bellavista, offers insight into his life and work.

15. Museo de Historia Natural (Museum of Natural History)

An excellent place for nature enthusiasts, this museum features extensive exhibits about Chile’s biodiversity, alongside an informative planetarium dedicated to astronomy.

We Met the President of Chile

During our visit to the Museum of Natural History, we unexpectedly met President Gabriel Boric while dining at a nearby restaurant. The experience was thrilling and showcased the welcoming nature of Santiago.

16. Museo de la Memoria y Los Derechos Humanos (The Museum of Memory and Human Rights)

This museum serves as a poignant reminder of the human rights violations during the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet. It is an essential visit for anyone wanting to grasp the historical complexities of Chile.

17. Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino (Museum of Pre-Colombian Art)

With a vast collection of over 6,000 artifacts from various Latin American cultures, this museum is a treasure trove of pre-Colombian history and an essential stop for art lovers.

18. Watch Sunset from the W Hotel

Offering one of the best sunset views in Santiago, the W Hotel features a rooftop bar and infinity pool, perfect for enjoying cocktails while overlooking the Andes.

19. Museo Historico Nacional

Located next to Plaza de Armas, this museum chronicles Chilean history through a variety of artifacts and exhibitions that narrate the country’s past.

20. Cementerio General de Santiago (General Cemetery)

Home to many famous Chileans, including Nobel Prize-winning poet Pablo Neruda, this cemetery offers a unique glimpse into the lives of notable figures while also hosting ghost tours.

21. Metro Art Santiago – Subway Stops

Santiago’s metro system boasts art installations at various stations, making the journey visually stimulating. The BIP card system allows for convenient and affordable travel throughout the city.

Where to Stay in Santiago

We stayed at the Four Points Sheraton in Providencia, an excellent location for accessing major attractions and public transportation. This hotel offers spectacular city views and a fantastic breakfast buffet.

For a more upscale option, consider the W Hotel in El Golf, which provides luxurious accommodations and stunning views of the city.

Day Trips from Santiago

Santiago is an excellent base for day trips. Here are a few suggestions:

21. Day Trip to Valparaiso

Valparaiso, known for its colorful houses and artistic murals, offers a range of cultural attractions and is easily accessible from Santiago.

22. Andes Mountains, Valle Nevado, El Colorado

Explore the Andes, which are visible from Santiago, offering stunning views and outdoor adventures such as skiing and mountain biking.

23. Wine Tasting in Chile Valley

Santiago is the perfect starting point for wine tasting tours in the nearby Maipo Valley, known for its world-class vineyards and high-quality wines.

Map of the Best Things to Do in Santiago

As you can see, there are numerous activities to enjoy in Santiago. Whatever your interests, there’s an adventure waiting for you!

Santiago is the capital of Chile, home to over six million people, and is bustling with cultural landmarks, shopping, and a vibrant atmosphere that appeals to everyone.