What is Santiago?

Santiago is the capital and largest city of Chile, with a population of 5.6 million people. Located in central-south Chile, it was founded in 1541 and is one of the oldest cities in South America. Often referred to as the “City of Kings”, it is the political and cultural hub of the entire country.

Santiago is Chile’s cultural and financial center, with many cultural and financial institutions, churches and other national monuments such as palaces, museums, galleries and many other attractions. The architecture of the city is quite varied, ranging from colonial structures to modern skyscrapers. Santiago also has a vibrant entertainment scene, with bars, clubs, theaters, and even a zoo.

The city has a long history and a rich culture that are still alive today. One of the main attractions is The Church of San Francisco, which was built in the 16th Century and is still in use today. Another important building in the city is La Moneda Palace, the official house of the Chilean President. In addition, Santiago also houses the famous Cerro San Cristobal Hill which gives stunning views of the city.

One of Santiago’s biggest attractions is its cuisine. In Chilean cuisine, empanadas are one of the most popular dishes. Also, dishes such as cazuela and paila marina have origins in Santiago. Seafood is also quite popular in Santiago, as the area is known for its fresh seafood.

Santiago’s climate is classified as a “Mediterranean climate”, featuring hot and dry summers and cold winters making it a great destination for skiing and other winter sports. The city has three main parks in which residents and tourists alike can enjoy family activities year round: Parque Metropolitano de Santiago, Parque de las Esculturas and Parque Quinta Normal.

In conclusion, Santiago is a truly amazing city full of culture, history and modern attractions that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. With various monuments, museums and churches to visit, fantastic cuisine to try, incredible parks and other outdoor activities to enjoy, Santiago offers something for everyone. For more information explore southamerica.travel/en/country/chile/santiago and all it has to offer!

An Insider’s Guide to Santiago, Chile

Santiago is the capital city of Chile. It is home to over 7 million people, making it the largest city in Chile and one of the largest in South America. It is located in the central valley, surrounded by the Andes Mountains, making for breathtaking views. Santiago is a vibrant city with a rich cultural history, delicious food, and plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here’s an insider’s guide to Santiago:

Local Attractions to Visit

– Cerro San Cristóbal: This hill is one of Santiago’s most iconic landmarks. You can take the funicular to the top to enjoy panoramic views of the city. At the peak, there is a large statue of the Virgin Mary and a church where you can light a candle and make a wish.
– La Moneda Palace: The president of Chile’s official residence is located in this beautiful neoclassical building. It was originally built in the 18th century as a mint and today, it houses the offices of the president and houses various cultural exhibits.
– Plaza de Armas: This is Santiago’s main square and is located in the heart of the city. The square is surrounded by beautiful buildings including the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National History Museum.
– La Chascona: This is one of the homes of the famous poet Pablo Neruda and is now a museum. It is located in the bohemian neighborhood of Bellavista and is decorated with unique artwork and relics.

Dining Spots to Try

– Mercado Central: This is Santiago’s largest seafood market and is a must-visit destination. You can enjoy fresh seafood dishes at one of the many restaurants located inside the market. It is a great spot to try the traditional Chilean dish, the ‘crudo,’ which is similar to ceviche.
– La Piojera: This is a famous dive bar in Santiago, known for its ‘Terremotos,’ a cocktail made using Chilean wine, pineapple ice cream, and grenadine. It is the perfect spot to experience the local nightlife scene.
– Bocanáriz: This is a wine bar that offers some of Chile’s best wines, paired with gourmet food. The menu is designed to celebrate Chilean cuisine and culture.
– Mestizo: This restaurant is located in one of the most beautiful settings in Santiago, Parque Bicentenario. It offers modern Chilean cuisine and a great selection of Chilean wines. The terrace has stunning views of the park and the city.

Cultural Experiences to Have

– Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes: This is Santiago’s most important art museum and has a vast collection of Chilean and international art. It is a great place to get a sense of the evolution of art in Chile and is located in Parque Forestal, one of the city’s largest parks.
– Teatro Municipal: This is Santiago’s most elegant theater and offers performances all year round, including opera, ballet, and concerts. It is located in the city center and has a beautiful neoclassical facade.
– Parque Bicentenario: This park is located in the heart of Santiago and is an oasis amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. It features landscaped gardens, bike lanes, fountains, and sports fields. It is a great spot to relax and take in the beauty of the city.

Local History to Discover

– Cerro Santa Lucia: This hill is home to the remains of a colonial fortress, built in the 17th century by Pedro de Valdivia, Santiago’s founder. It offers stunning views of the city and is a great spot to learn about Santiago’s history.
– Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos: This museum is dedicated to preserving the memory of the victims of Chile’s dictatorship, which lasted from 1973-1990. It is a sobering reminder of the country’s difficult past and a call to action to promote human rights around the world.
– Quinta Normal: This is a beautiful park that dates back to the 19th century, located in the neighborhood of the same name. Today, it houses numerous museums, including the National Museum of Natural History, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

– Barrio Yungay: This neighborhood is located in the city center, but it is often overlooked by tourists. It has a bohemian vibe, with beautifully restored historic homes and street art. It is a great spot to have a coffee or a beer and take in the local culture.
– Feria de los Dominicos: This market is located in Las Condes neighborhood and offers a wide range of handmade crafts and artisanal products. This is a great spot to find souvenirs or unique gifts.
– Cementerio General: This cemetery is the largest in Chile and is also a museum of sorts. It houses the remains of many famous people from Chilean history, including Nobel Prize winner Gabriela Mistral. It is a peaceful place to wander around and learn about the country’s past.

Santiago is a vibrant city that offers something for everyone. Its rich cultural history, stunning natural setting, and delicious cuisine make it a must-visit destination for any traveler. If you want to experience the best that Santiago has to offer, be sure to visit these local attractions, dine in these fantastic restaurants, immerse yourself in Chilean culture with these experiences, and discover the city’s unique history and off-the-beaten-path spots.