Located in the heart of Chile, Santiago is a vibrant city with a mix of stunning architecture, cultural attractions, and delicious cuisine. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, Santiago has something to offer for everyone. Here are some travel tips to make the most of your visit to this beautiful city:
- Currency: The currency in Santiago is the Chilean Peso. It is recommended to exchange some money before your trip or withdraw cash from ATMs in the city.
- Public transportation: Santiago has an efficient metro system that can take you to most of the major attractions in the city. Taxis and Uber are also readily available.
- Safety: Like any other major city, it is important to be cautious of your surroundings and belongings while exploring Santiago. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
- Language: Spanish is the official language in Santiago, so it is helpful to learn some basic phrases before your trip.
- Weather: Santiago has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Be sure to check the weather forecast before packing.
Now that you are prepared for your trip to Santiago, here is a list of 20 sites and monuments to visit in the city:
- La Moneda Palace – The seat of the President of Chile, this historical building offers guided tours to visitors to learn about its history and architecture. (Reference: La Moneda Palace)
- Pricing: Guided tours are free of charge.
- How to get there: Located in the city center, you can easily reach La Moneda Palace by metro or taxi.
- Santa Lucía Hill – A picturesque park with panoramic views of the city, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. (Reference: Santa Lucía Hill)
- Pricing: Entrance to the park is free.
- How to get there: Located in the city center, you can walk or take public transportation to Santa Lucía Hill.
- Plaza de Armas – The main square of Santiago, surrounded by historical buildings and a hub of cultural events and street performers. (Reference: Plaza de Armas)
- Pricing: Free to visit.
- How to get there: Located in the city center, you can easily access Plaza de Armas by metro or walking.
- Metropolitan Cathedral – A stunning architectural marvel, the Metropolitan Cathedral is a must-visit for history buffs and art enthusiasts. (Reference: Metropolitan Cathedral)
- National Museum of Fine Arts – Explore Chilean and international art at this prominent museum, located in the Parque Forestal. (Reference: National Museum of Fine Arts)
- Pricing: General admission is free, with some special exhibitions requiring a fee.
- How to get there: Situated in the city center, you can reach the National Museum of Fine Arts by metro or walking.
- Mercado Central – This vibrant market is a feast for the senses, offering fresh seafood, local cuisine, and artisan crafts. (Reference: Mercado Central)
- Pricing: Prices vary depending on the items purchased.
- How to get there: Located in the city center, you can walk or take a short taxi ride to Mercado Central.
- Cerro San Cristóbal – Enjoy stunning views of Santiago from the top of this hill, accessible by a funicular or cable car. (Reference: Cerro San Cristóbal)
- Pricing: Funicular or cable car rides have an admission fee.
- How to get there: Located in the northern part of the city, you can take public transportation or a taxi to Cerro San Cristóbal.
- La Chascona – Visit the former home of renowned poet Pablo Neruda, which is now a museum showcasing his life and works. (Reference: La Chascona)
- Pricing: Admission fee required for guided tours.
- How to get there: Located in the Bellavista neighborhood, you can reach La Chascona by walking or taking public transportation.
- Costanera Center – Shop, dine, and enjoy panoramic views from the observation deck of the tallest building in South America. (Reference: Costanera Center)
- Pricing: Admission fee required for the observation deck.
- How to get there: Located in the city center, you can walk or take public transportation to Costanera Center.
- Santiago Metropolitan Park – Escape the hustle and bustle of the city at this vast park, perfect for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the outdoors. (Reference: Santiago Metropolitan Park)
- Pricing: Free to visit.
- How to get there: Located in the northeastern part of the city, you can take public transportation or a taxi to Santiago Metropolitan Park.
- Bahá’í House of Worship – Visit the only Bahá’í temple in South America, known for its unique architecture and serene atmosphere. (Reference: Bahá’í House of Worship)
- Pricing: Free to visit.
- How to get there: Located in the foothills of the Andes, you can take a taxi or guided tour to the Bahá’í House of Worship.
Our Top Travel Gear and Equipment Recommendations: Best Camera, Photo and Video Equipment for Your Travels
If you’re interested in our recommended travel gear and photo/video equipment:
- Best and Most Useful Travel Gear:
- Best photo / video cameras and equipment for Travel:
- Best Action Cameras and Portable Cameras
- Best Full-Frame DSLR Cameras and DSLR Cameras for Amateur and Professional Photographers
- Best Drones and Aerial Photography Cameras
- Best Tripods, Monopods and Selfie Sticks for Photography and Videography
- Best Mobile Phones and Cell Phones, Best Laptops and Computers for Travel:
Don’t forget to get Travel Insurance Before You Travel
If you’re looking for travel insurance, we recommend the following travel insurance provider:
World Nomads Travel Insurance | Find the Perfect Insurance Plan for Your Trip with Travelex | Cancel for any reason with Travel Guard |
3 Days in Santiago Itinerary:
Day 1:
- La Moneda Palace
- Plaza de Armas
- Metropolitan Cathedral
- Lunch at Mercado Central
- Santa Lucía Hill
- National Museum of Fine Arts
Day 2:
- Cerro San Cristóbal
- La Chascona
- Costanera Center
- Lunch at a local restaurant
- Santiago Metropolitan Park
- Bahá’í House of Worship
Day 3:
- Explore Bellavista neighborhood
- Visit the Gabriela Mistral Cultural Center
- Enjoy a walking tour of the city’s street art
- Shopping at the Lastarria neighborhood
- Dinner at a traditional Chilean restaurant
- Attend a performance at Teatro Municipal de Santiago
Where To Stay in Santiago, Chile – Best Hotels in Santiago, Chile:
Hotels in Santiago, Chile priced over $200 per night:
- The Ritz-Carlton Santiago
- Mandarin Oriental, Santiago
- The Place
- Courtyard by Marriott Santiago Las Condes
- The Singular Santiago
Hotels in Santiago, Chile priced between $100 to $200 per night:
- Hotel Plaza San Francisco
- DoubleTree by Hilton Santiago – Vitacura
- AC Hotel by Marriott Santiago Costanera Center
- Santiago Marriott Hotel
- DoubleTree by Hilton Santiago Kennedy, Chile
Hotels in Santiago, Chile, priced between $50 to $100 per night:
- Novotel Santiago Providencia
- Best Western Estacion Central
- Best Western Premier Marina Las Condes
- Hotel CasaDeTodos
- Hotel Pasko
Hotels in Santiago, Chile, priced between $20 to $50 per night:
Please note that ratings and prices may vary depending on the season and availability. Make sure to check the current rates and availability through the provided links.
I hope this comprehensive guide helps you plan your trip to Santiago and allows you to make the most of your time in this fascinating city. Enjoy your travels!
For more about Chile and Santiago, read the travel tips and see all travel stories, videos, photos and writing on Rolling Coconut’s Travel section.
This page may contain affiliate links, using these for your bookings and purchases comes at no extra cost to you and helps to maintain this site, thanks for your support!
If you enjoyed this post, don’t forget to sign up to the OOAworld newsletter, LIKE our Facebook page and SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube channel, or FOLLOW us on Instagram or X (Twitter)!
Like a photo or artwork on the site? Order OOAworld’s custom prints, canvases and accessories by checking out the items in the Shop!
Share the road!