Santiago, Chile, is located in the famous Andes Mountains. With this much nature surrounding, it is no surprise that many locations on this list provide excellent views to take in the beautiful vistas. When visiting a city like Santiago, you’ll find that there are rich history and culture that can be found in the streets, stores, and restaurants. Be sure to try out the many culinary delights offered around the city, many restaurants offering gorgeous views of the surrounding Andes.
Parque Bicentenario
Locals love Parque Bicentenario which was built in 2007. Many spend mornings and lazy afternoons here; however, tourists can enjoy this park just as much. Lawn chairs and umbrellas are available for rent throughout the park. Those who don’t bring their picnic can purchase off the cuff with plenty of food vendors selling their delights. Those interested in a sit-down meal can go to Mestiza, the park restaurant. Guests will enjoy the man-made lagoon, the dog park, and the playground, which all provide exercise opportunities. This park also includes greenhouses and outdoor gardens for the enjoyment of visitors who wish to take a peaceful stroll.
Bicentenario 3236, Vitacura, Region Metropolitana, Chile, Phone: 56-9-63-65-67-50
Los Dominicos Village
Santago is home to Los Dominicos Village, a small artisan village. Artists of all kinds set up shop to sell their handcrafted wares, from leather goods to pottery. Jewelry is often a favorite among tourists, and the Mapuche silver and lapis lazuli items are particularly popular in Chile. If you’re hungry, there’s no need to worry since some cooks like to create delicacies or local favorites for the shoppers. Consider trying out a popular local dish: the beef empanada. A café is also in the village, serving up famous Chilean dishes, like pastel de choclo.
Apoquindo 9085, Las Condes, Region Metropolitana, Chile, Phone: 56-2-28-96-98-55
La Vega Central Market
La Vega Central Market is also sometimes referred to as Feria Mapocho. This open-air produce market sells nearly everything a shopper could need. From fresh fruit and produce to freshly baked bread, Chileans find everything they need for a homecooked meal. For those who want to soak up the atmosphere, three restaurants are offering tasty made dishes using the produce and ingredients from the market. Several restaurants shop here as well, picking up ingredients from as far off as Peru. After you’ve completed your shopping list, head across the way to Barrio Patronato to pick up some clothing and accessories.
Antonia Lopez de Bello 743, Recoleta, Region Metropolitana, Chile, Phone: 56-2-27-37-61-61
Santa Lucia Market
For those looking to do some souvenir and gift shopping, the Santa Lucia arts and Crafts Market is a great place to find stalls with handmade products and kitschy items. If you have that one person in your life who collects shot glasses, this is an excellent place to go. If you prefer something a bit more cultural and unique, over 100 stalls offer products, from pan flutes to rainsticks, to handmade toys. Across from the market sits Santa Lucia Hill, which offers breathtaking views. Before heading up the hill, order some freshly squeezed juice and a hot empanada to fuel your hike.
Santa Lucia Market, Avenida Liber Bernardo O’higgins S/N & Carmen, Santiago, RZegion Metropolitana, Chile, Phone: 56-9-66-84-21-58
Mercado Central de Santiago
Locals and tourists hop at Mercado Central de Santiago , or the Central Market of Santiago. This market focuses on the freshest of foods, selling everything from fish to liquor. Onsite, a restaurant serves up some delicious eats to patrons who have exhausted themselves on jewelry and accessory shopping. Mercado Central is open seven days a week for those looking to do some grocery shopping or those looking to care for basic needs at the pharmacy. Mercado Central is even the location of travel agents, for those needing help with tours or locals wanting to plan a trip.
San Pablo 967, Santiago, Region Metropolitana, Chile, Phone: 56-2-26-97-37-79
Cerro San Cristobal
The locals call this hill Cerro San Cristobal . It is an urban park, where locals and tourists can enjoy some nature while getting fresh air and exercise. Those who are interested can seek refreshment at the top of the hill, overlooking the city. The most popular drink at the top is mote con huesillo, which is made of dried peaches, wheat, and juice. As a bonus, the Metropolitan Zoo is located at the top of Cerro San Cristobal. When at the park, be sure to visit the zoo to see the animals they find dear in Chile.
Avenida Providencia 1550, Santiago, Chile, Phone: 56-2-27-31-83-36
Barrio Lastarria
Quite a hotspot in Santiago, Barrio Lastarria is a historic district that has become an up-and-coming cultural center. Those interested in discovering entertainment and culture will no doubt find their way to Barrio Lastarria. Tourists will find museums, theater shows, cinemas, and restaurants throughout the area. Shopping is also a must while in Barrio Lastarria since many vendors sell antiques and old books (many in English). People watching happens to be a popular pastime of those who enjoy the sunny, open-air patios while sipping a cappuccino. Stopping during the week will guarantee special attention since the streets get very busy with locals on the weekend.
Jose Victorino Lastarria 300, Santiago, Region Metropolitana, Chile
La Piojera
Opening in 1896, La Piojera is the oldest dive bar in Santiago. It is a popular hangout for Chilean artists, but tourists are welcome. La Piojera, which means The Fleabag in English, has a rich history that includes a name change thanks to the President of Chile at the time. President Palma called the place a fleabag during a visit in 1922, and the locals decided that the name had to stick. Today, people speaking all different languages visit this bar for food, drink, and great company. Outsiders often hear bar singing and cheering from the patrons, making this a must-see when in Santiago.
Aillavilu 1030, Santiago, Region Metropolitana, Chile, Phone: 56-2-26-98-16-82
La Peluqueria Francesa
The name “French Hairdresser” does not actually relate to the delicious food that this establishment serves. La Peluqueria Francesa is a family restaurant that has been open for three generations. Patrons are treated to floor shows, comedy shows, movie screenings, and live music. While enjoying the live entertainment, splurge on some French cuisine, such as plateda de Roquefort or beef bourguignon. Splurge on some of delicious regional or French wines and classic cocktails. You’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back into the vaudeville years, where every day feels like a trip to the Moulin Rouge.
Compania de Jesus 2789, Santiago, Region Metropolitana, Chile, Phone: 56-2-26-82-52-43
Cerro Santa Lucia
From the top of Cerro Santa Lucia (Santa Lucia Hill), the snow-covered mountains of the Andes can be seen in the distance. This hill is over 226 feet high, providing fantastic views of the entire city. Once part of an active volcano, this hill was converted to a park in 1872. Lore states that this hill is the exact spot that Pedro de Valdivia founded the city of Santiago. Today’s guests can climb the stairs to each terrace, which includes a place to sightsee and rest. While there is an elevator to get you to the top, the final climb must be done by steep stairs.
Santiago, Region Metropolitana, Chile
Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes
For those who are excited to get involved with the cultural heritage and fine arts of Chile, Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes in Santiago is a perfect place to visit. Along with presenting Santiago’s artistic history, the museum also works to protect the architecture of the building and the culture of all of Chile’s regions. Though the museum circulates over 5,000 pieces throughout the year, a permanent exhibit, From Here to Modernity, was initiated in 2018 on the second floor. The exhibition uses over 80 items to show how Chile has represented art in the second half of the 19th century.
Jose Miguel de La Barra 650, Santiago, Region Metropolitana, Chile, Phone: 56-2-29-97-87-00
Museo de Arte Contemporaneo
What makes art contemporary? At Museo de Arte Contemporaneo, guests and curators study this through exhibits and analysis. Working with the university, this museum looks at contemporary art and the role it plays in modern society. What makes up contemporary artwork is based on the work that the community feel makes a powerful statement about the culture and society of a place, like Chile. Exhibits rotate throughout the year, focusing on a specific element and getting guests to question what they look at. For instance, In Favor of the Wind looks at a piece of fabric as it blows from the currents of different fans at different times to showcase that no two moments are alike.
Matucana 464, Santiago, Region Metropolitana, Chile, Phone: 56-2-29-77-17-65
Parque Quinta Normal
With over 88 acres of nature, Parque Quinta Normal is a favorite park for locals and tourists. Though this is a park, the Chilean Museum of Natural History is located within its borders. This museum is a great spot to visit for tourists interested in anthropology, paleontology, and mummies. Other museums located in or just outside the park include the Museum of Memory and Human Rights, a children’s museum, and a locomotive museum. Food and shopping vendors are scattered throughout the park, as well as grills and tables. Guests can keep busy at the lake with paddleboats or stopping at a face painter.
Matucana 520, Santiago, Region Metropolitana, Chile, Phone: 56-9-76-45-51-29
Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos
Just outside Parque Quinta Normal is Museo de la Memoria y Los Derechos Humanos, the Museum of Memory and Human Rights. The purpose of this museum is to recognize the atrocities committed on the people of Chile by the Chilean government between 1973 and 1990. Though there is space for visiting exhibits, more than half of the building is dedicated to the permanent display. Throughout this exhibit, patrons read real testimonials of survivors during this time, including a section on the pain children endured. A room is dedicated to the horrors suffered by culture, including book burnings, museums closed, and cultural goods seized.
Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos, Matucana 501, Santiago, Region Metropolitana, Chile, Phone: 56-2-25-97-96-00
Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino
Opened in December of 1981, Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino looks at the collection of Sergio Larrain Garcia-Moreno. Garcia-Moreno was an avant-garde artist from the 20th century. Still, it was ancient cultural works that truly aroused his passion, and that’s when he began to collect Pre-Columbian works with the caveat that the work overwhelms him when he lay his eyes upon it. Today, Museo Chileno de Arts Precolombino showcases masterpieces from around Mesoamerica, the Amazon, the Andes, and the Caribbean. A permeant exhibit looking at Chile before it became Chile admires human habitation over 14,000 years ago in the region.
Bandera 361, Santiago, Region Metropolitana, Chile, Phone: 56-2-29-28-15-00
Tramonto Bar & Terrace
Located at Noi Vitacura hotel, Tramonto Bar & Terrace is situated on the rooftop terrace. The location of this restaurant provides gorgeous 360-degree views of the city of Santiago and the surrounding Andes Mountains. Sit out poolside or inside the glass enclosure to get the best sights and experience that Santiago can offer. Travelers will be the first to tell you that the best time to visit Tramonto is during the sunset. To finish off a fun evening of socializing, try a decadent dessert, like the tiramisu in a white chocolate sphere. While the cuisine is artfully crafted, Tramonto is well-known for its highbrow cocktails and bar offerings.
Nueva Costanera 3736, Santiago, Vitacura, Region Metropolitana, Chile, Phone: 56-2-29-41-81-00
Red2One
Located on the rooftop terrace of W Hotels by Marriott in Santiago, Red2One is an exclusive and highly desired bar for those wanting a getaway with breathtaking views of the cityscape. The décor of Red2One is simple yet bold. White leather couches and chairs cool patrons down, while bright pops of red remind you that you’re in Red2One. The wooden floor reminds you of the terrace-top location, and the floor-to-ceiling glass windows provide the relaxing interior atmosphere while allowing you to feel at one with the view. Try one of the many endless cocktails with small appetizers while you socialize.
Isidora Goyenechea 3000, Santiago, Las Condes, Region Metropolitana, Chile, Phone: 56-2-27-70-00-77
The Singular Rooftop Bar
The Singular Hotel is home to the Restaurant Singular and the Rooftop Bar. Rooftop Bar serves signature cocktails from the rooftop of the Singular Hotel. Enjoy the views of San Cristobal hill while selecting from the beers, wines, and cocktails that make up a listing of over 115 liquors. Restaurant Singular serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. Using French cooking techniques and Chilean ingredients, the chefs make fantastic meals that will make your taste buds explode. Consider trying the King crab gratin, the seared rockfish with mashed tubers, the foie gras stuffed quail, or wild hare tenderloin with red wine pears.
The Singular Rooftop Bar, Merced 294, Santiago, Region Metropolitana, Chile, Phone: 56-2-23-06-88-00
