Exploring Santiago, Chile: 10 Must-See Attractions and Activities
Santiago is the largest city and capital of Chile, and it is known for its year-round Mediterranean climate, stunning views of the Andes mountains, and vibrant culture. This culturally diverse city is home to diverse attractions and activities that everyone from art enthusiasts to outdoor adventurers can enjoy. Here are 10 of the top activities and attractions to explore in Santiago, Chile.
1. Take in the Views from Cerro San Cristobal
One of the best ways to get a panoramic view of Santiago is to visit the summit of Cerro San Cristobal. This iconic hill is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Santiago, and it is the perfect spot to take in stunning views of the city and the Andes mountains. At the top of the hill, you can also find a giant statue of the Virgin Mary. The park is open daily from 8am to 6pm, and you can explore it for free.
Book a tour of Cerro San Cristobal
2. Walk Through Plaza de Armas
Plaza de Armas is Santiago’s main square, and it is the perfect place to learn about the history and culture of Chile. The plaza is surrounded by many of Santiago’s most important buildings, including the Municipal Theatre and the Central Post Office, as well as several beautiful parks and gardens. This is also where you can find many of Santiago’s most famous statues, including monuments to Chilean heroes such as Bernardo O’Higgins, Diego Portales, and José Miguel Carrera.
3. Visit the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes
The Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes is one of the best places to learn about Chilean art and culture. This museum features an extensive collection of Chilean and Latin American artwork from pre-Hispanic times to the present day. Visitors can also take part in guided tours, lectures, and workshops. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm, and admission is free on Sundays from noon to 5pm.
Book a tour of Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes
4. Explore Parque Metropolitano
Parque Metropolitano is Santiago’s largest park, and it is the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. This sprawling park covers over 3,000 acres of land and features a variety of attractions such as botanical gardens, a zoo, museums, and beautiful walking paths. Parque Metropolitano is open every day from 8am to 6pm and admission is free.
Book a tour of Parque Metropolitano
5. Tour La Chascona
La Chascona is a stunning home owned by Nobel Prize-winning poet Pablo Neruda, and it is now a museum dedicated to his life and work. This eclectic house features an array of unique decorations such as handmade furniture, colorful paintings, and whimsical objects from around the world. Visitors can take guided tours through this fascinating home which are available from Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm.
6. Shop at La Vega Central
La Vega Central is a bustling marketplace located in Santiago’s downtown area. This vibrant market features hundreds of stalls selling an array of fresh produce, spices, meats, cheeses, pastries, and much more. This is also a great place to pick up unique souvenirs such as handmade jewelry or traditional clothing items. La Vega Central is open daily from 8am to 8pm.
Book a tour of La Vega Central
7. Go Wine Tasting at Concha y Toro
Concha y Toro is one of Chile’s oldest and most renowned wineries, and it offers guided tours and tastings for visitors wanting to experience its wines firsthand. During the tour, you will get to explore its vineyards, learn about its winemaking process, and sample some of its best wines. Concha y Toro offers guided tours from Monday to Saturday from 9am to 4pm.
8. Visit Precolombino Museo Chileno de Arte
The Precolombino Museo Chileno de Arte is a fascinating museum dedicated to pre-Columbian art and culture in Chile. This museum features over 5,000 artifacts, including pottery, sculptures, jewelry, and textiles dating back thousands of years. Visitors can also learn about the history of the area through interactive exhibits, lectures, and workshops. The museum is open daily from 10am to 6pm and admission is free on Sundays from noon to 5pm.
Book a tour of Precolombino Museo Chileno de Arte
9. Sample Chilean Cuisine
Santiago is known for its flavorful food scene, and it is the perfect place to sample traditional Chilean dishes such as cazuela (beef stew), pastel de choclo (corn pie), empanadas (turnovers), or humitas (corn tamales). You can find delicious Chilean food in restaurants throughout the city or explore one of Santiago’s many street food markets for an immersive culinary experience.
Book a tour featuring Chilean Cuisine
10. Go Skiing at Portillo Ski Resort
Portillo Ski Resort is located in the Andes mountains just outside Santiago and it is one of Chile’s best ski destinations. With its stunning views of Lake Inca and its wide variety of ski runs suitable for beginners and experts alike, Portillo Ski Resort has something for everyone. The ski season runs from June to October, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly!
Book a tour of Portillo Ski Resort
Santiago offers something for everyone – from exploring its bustling city streets to taking in breathtaking mountain views – so make sure you take some time to explore all this vibrant city has to offer! Whether you’re looking for cultural attractions or outdoor adventures, Santiago has something for you!
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