Introduction
Santiago is often the first stop for many travellers exploring Chile, and it didn’t take long for us to enjoy the city’s rhythm. It’s a mix of modern life, Andean backdrops, leafy parks, and a few neighbourhoods that feel completely different depending on the time of day. Even if you only have one to three days, there are plenty of things to do in Santiago without feeling rushed.
For us, Santiago was more of a transit stop between our time in the Uyuni Salt Flats / the North of Chile and Easter Island.
The city is easy to navigate, full of cafés, markets, museums, and green spaces, and has enough contrasts to keep you curious from morning to evening. We spent our time wandering between plazas, stopping for good coffee, climbing up the viewpoints, and trying local snacks along the way. In this guide, we’re sharing the essentials — the Santiago attractions we enjoyed the most, the things to see in Santiago if you’re short on time, and a simple way to organise your visit.
Whether you’re here for a quick layover or a few slow days in the capital, Santiago is a great place to ease into Chilean culture before continuing your adventure.
Getting there
Reaching Santiago is straightforward since the city is home to Chile’s main international airport, Arturo Merino Benítez (SCL). Most long-haul flights land here, and it’s the natural starting point for trips to the rest of the country. From the airport, you can either book a transfer, grab an Uber, or take one of the official airport buses into the city. We found Uber to be the easiest and most convenient option — especially if you’re carrying luggage and want to get to your accommodation without having to navigate multiple connections.
If you’re arriving from elsewhere in Chile, buses connect Santiago with almost every major city, and the central bus terminals are well connected to the metro. Whichever way you arrive, getting into town is simple, and you’ll be ready to start exploring all the things to do in Santiago in no time.
Moving Around
Santiago is a large city, but getting around is easier than it looks. For most visits, Uber is the quickest and most affordable way to move between neighbourhoods and the main Santiago attractions. Taxis are available everywhere, but they tend to be more expensive, and we found Uber far more reliable.
The metro is clean, efficient, and great for longer distances, though it can get crowded during rush hour. Buses work well too, but they take more time and are not ideal if you’re trying to see a lot in one day.
If you’re staying outside the centre, keep in mind that reaching downtown by bus can easily take up to an hour. For short stays or a one-day itinerary, sticking to Uber and the metro will help you focus on the best things to see in Santiago without wasting time on connections.
When to Visit
Santiago can be visited year-round, but each season has its own atmosphere. Temperatures shift a lot between summer and winter, so your experience will depend on what kind of trip you’re after.
- Summer (December to February): Warm and dry, with temperatures around 28–32°C (82–90°F). It’s the liveliest time of the year, great for rooftop bars, long evenings outside, and clear views of the Andes. It’s also the busiest, so expect more people at the main Santiago attractions.
- Autumn (March to May): Mild days, cooler nights, and temperatures between 12–25°C (54–77°F). Trees in the parks turn golden, and the city feels calmer. It’s one of the best times to enjoy the things to do in Santiago without the summer crowds.
- Winter (June to August): Cold and often grey, with temperatures ranging from 3–14°C (37–57°F). Smog tends to settle over the city, and views can be limited. On the other hand, it’s the cheapest period to visit, and you can combine Santiago with a ski trip to the Andes.
- Spring (September to November): Fresh, colourful, and comfortable, with temperatures around 12–24°C (54–75°F). Flowers return to the parks, outdoor cafés reopen, and the weather is perfect for walking around the city.
Tip: If you want clear views from San Cristóbal Hill, try to go after a rainy day — the air is much clearer and the Andes look incredible.
Where to Stay
Santiago has a mix of neighbourhoods, from chic residential areas to lively streets full of cafés and small shops. If you’re planning to explore the main things to do in Santiago over one to three days, staying somewhere well-connected will make your visit much easier.
The Place: A comfortable and modern option in a calm area of the city. Rooms are clean and simple, with everything you need for a short stay. It’s a practical choice if you want something straightforward and affordable while still being close to restaurants, supermarkets, and easy transport connections.
Hotel Eco Boutique Bidasoa: A charming eco-friendly boutique hotel located in a quiet residential neighbourhood. The design leans toward natural materials and warm tones, giving the whole place a cosy feel. Rooms are bright, the atmosphere is relaxed, and the outdoor areas are perfect for unwinding after a day exploring Santiago attractions. It’s a great pick if you prefer smaller, more personal hotels.
Mandarin Oriental, Santiago: For something more upscale, the Mandarin Oriental is one of the best hotels in the city. Spacious rooms, mountain views, a beautiful garden, and an outdoor pool make it a peaceful retreat despite being in the modern district of Las Condes. Service is excellent, and it’s a comfortable base if you want to return each evening to a calm, luxurious space.
Wherever you stay — Lastarria, Providencia, Vitacura, or Las Condes — you’ll be well positioned to reach the main things to see in Santiago and enjoy the city at a relaxed pace.
Here are all your accommodation options in Santiago
What to Eat
Santiago has a bit of everything when it comes to food — traditional Chilean dishes, simple street snacks, and a growing café culture that’s perfect for slow mornings. Even with just a couple of days in the city, you’ll have no trouble finding something good between your visits to the main Santiago attractions.
Empanadas are a must. You’ll find them everywhere, filled with cheese, veggies, or the classic pino mix (meat, onion, olives, egg). They’re cheap, filling, and the perfect snack while wandering around town. Another local favourite is the completo, Chile’s very loaded version of a hot dog, usually topped with avocado, tomato, and mayo. It sounds like a lot, but it’s part of everyday food culture here.
Seafood is another big one, especially around the Central Market. Even though the market itself didn’t charm us much, the restaurants serve fresh ceviche, fish stews, and simple dishes that reflect the coastal influence on Chilean cuisine.
For breakfast or a mid-day break, cafés in Santiago are great. We loved Wonderland Café — a bit expensive, but fun, creative, and with one of the best Americanos we had in South America. And if you enjoy wine, you’re in the right country. A glass of Carménère or a crisp Chilean white is the perfect way to end the day after exploring all the things to do in Santiago.
If you prefer something quick and casual, street vendors and small bakeries are scattered all over the centre. Grab a snack, enjoy the city atmosphere, and keep exploring at your own pace.
Things to do in Santiago de Chile
Start at Plaza de Armas
Plaza de Armas is Santiago’s historic centre and the natural place to start exploring the city. It’s one of the oldest squares in Chile, dating back to 1541, and has always been the political and cultural heart of the capital. The square today is a mix of palm trees, benches, street artists, and colonial buildings, but it also feels quite modern compared to plazas in other South American cities.
We didn’t linger too long during our visit — it’s busy, loud, and a bit chaotic — but it’s still worth seeing to understand how Santiago grew around this exact point. From here, most of the main streets spread out in all directions, making it an easy orientation spot at the beginning of your day. It’s not the most charming place in the city, but visiting it gives you a quick introduction to Santiago’s layout and atmosphere before moving on to more characterful neighbourhoods.
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Enter the Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago
Facing Plaza de Armas, the Metropolitan Cathedral is one of the city’s most important religious landmarks. Built between 1753 and 1799, it has survived earthquakes, fires, and multiple reconstructions — which already tells you a lot about life in Chile. From the outside, the cathedral looks grand and imposing, but it’s once you step inside that you really feel its history.
The interior is calm, beautifully decorated, and filled with soft light reflecting off the altars and columns. It’s a peaceful break from the noise of the plaza just outside. We enjoyed wandering slowly through the aisles, taking in the details and the quiet atmosphere before heading back into the busy centre. Even if you’re not particularly into churches, this one is worth a quick visit when exploring the main things to do in Santiago.
Walk on Paseo Ahumada
From Plaza de Armas, you can follow the main pedestrian street (Paseo Ahumada) — a long, lively stretch that feels a bit like Santiago’s version of the Champs-Élysées. It’s lined with shops, cafés, street performers, and everything from small local stands to big international brands. It’s not the most historic part of the city, but it’s great for people-watching and getting a feel for Santiago’s everyday rhythm.
We walked it leisurely, stopping here and there to peek into bookstores or watch musicians playing on the side of the street. If you enjoy browsing or you’re simply heading toward the central market, this street naturally becomes part of your route. It’s a good place to soak in the busier side of the city before moving on to quieter neighbourhoods.
Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.
Explore Santiago Central Market
Just a short walk from the pedestrian street, the Santiago Central Market is one of the city’s most traditional spots. It’s mostly known for its fish stalls and seafood restaurants, with vendors calling out prices and cooks preparing fresh dishes right in front of you. The building itself is interesting, with a cast-iron structure from the late 1800s that gives the whole place a slightly nostalgic feel.
For us, the market wasn’t the highlight of Santiago — it’s very focused on fish, and we tend to enjoy more colourful fruit-and-vegetable markets. Still, it’s worth a stop if you’re curious about local food culture or want to try a seafood dish that’s straight from the source. Just across the river, you’ll also find the Mercado Tirso de Molina, a busier, more local market where restaurants and shops stock up for the day.
Walk along the Mapocho River
From the Central Market, it’s easy to follow the river and make your way toward some of Santiago’s livelier neighbourhoods. The walk itself isn’t spectacular, but it’s a nice transition between the busy city centre and the more colourful areas you’ll explore later on. Along the way, you’ll pass street art, small cafés, and a few quiet corners where locals sit and enjoy the afternoon.
It’s also a good moment to catch your breath and simply observe the city. Santiago can feel intense at times, so this stretch by the river acts almost like a buffer zone before you reach the creative energy of Bellavista or the green spaces around San Cristóbal Hill.
Here are all your accommodation options in Santiago
Discover Bellavista
Bellavista is one of Santiago’s most colourful and creative neighbourhoods. It’s the kind of place where you can wander without any real plan and still find plenty to look at — murals, quirky cafés, bars, small galleries, and shops selling handmade crafts. During the day, it’s relaxed and perfect for strolling; in the evening, it becomes one of the city’s liveliest going-out areas.
We liked passing through Bellavista on our way to San Cristóbal Hill, taking our time to admire the street art. It’s one of the neighbourhoods where you can really feel Santiago’s artistic side, and spending an hour or two here fits easily into any one- to three-day itinerary.
Hike San Cristóbal Hill
San Cristóbal Hill is one of the highlights of Santiago and a great place to spend a slow afternoon. Reaching the top can be done in two ways: either by taking the funicular or by hiking. The funicular is the faster option, but it’s not free and usually has a long waiting line, especially on weekends. If you prefer a quieter and more active approach, hiking is the way to go.
We chose to walk. To start, we made our way to the zoo and took the small path on the left, which eventually connects with the main trail leading to the summit. The climb is steady, and while it’s not overly difficult, it does take a bit of time. We stopped a few times to catch our breath — Santiago can get warm — and we definitely arrived at the top a little sweaty, but very happy.
Once up there, the atmosphere changes completely. You’ll find the Virgin of the Immaculate Conception, a 14-metre white statue overlooking the city, with a small chapel at its base. Nearby is the Sanctuary on San Cristóbal Hill, one of the main Catholic places of worship in Chile.
The area around the summit is peaceful, with places to sit, small kiosks, and the Terraza Bellavista, where you can take in the wide view over Santiago.
One thing that surprised us was how much pollution hangs over the city, softening the view of the Andes in the distance. But even with the haze, the panorama is impressive, and the feeling of standing above the capital makes the climb completely worth it. It’s one of the best things to do in Santiago, and a moment of calm in an otherwise busy city.
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Take the Cable Car of Santiago
Once you’ve reached the top of San Cristóbal Hill or explored part of the park, you can continue your visit with the Cable Car of Santiago (Teleférico de Santiago). It’s not something you absolutely must do, but it does offer a different way to experience the city — floating quietly above the trees with the Andes stretching behind the skyline.
The cable car connects several stations across the Metropolitano de Santiago park, making it a fun and easy way to move from one area to another without retracing your steps. The ride is short, but peaceful, and gives you a nice overview of the park’s size. You’ll glide above long walking paths, pockets of forest, and a few open viewpoints while seeing the city from a slightly different angle.
We only rode it for one stop, more out of curiosity than necessity, and it was a pleasant break. If you’re already in the park and have a bit of extra time, it’s a simple addition to your day — especially if you prefer not to walk all the way across the hill again. It doesn’t beat the views from the summit, but it’s a light, enjoyable way to continue exploring Santiago without rushing.
Stroll in the Metropolitano de Santiago
Parque Metropolitano de Santiago is one of the largest urban parks in South America, and exploring even a part of it gives you a completely different feel for the city. Once you descend from San Cristóbal Hill or hop off the cable car, you’ll realise just how big and varied the park actually is. It stretches across hills, forests, quiet roads, viewpoints, and recreational areas — the kind of place where you can easily spend a full afternoon wandering around.
There are walking paths going in every direction, some shaded, some completely open, and all of them peaceful compared to the downtown streets. The park also has gardens, picnic spots, swimming pools (open in summer), and plenty of hidden corners where locals come to exercise or simply relax.
Stop at Sculpture Park Museum
Following the river toward Providencia, you’ll eventually reach the Sculpture Park Museum — an open-air gallery that feels more like a calm green oasis than a museum. Spread across a long stretch of parkland, this outdoor space features dozens of contemporary sculptures of all shapes and sizes, each one placed thoughtfully among the trees and pathways.
It’s the kind of place where you don’t need a plan. You just wander, stop when something catches your eye, and enjoy the contrast between modern art and the calm of the park. During our walk, we also stumbled upon a small crowd waiting for what looked like a local celebrity — no idea who he was, but it added a bit of fun to the moment.
If you enjoy quiet places and open-air art, this is an easy and relaxing addition to your list of things to do in Santiago. It’s close to cafés and residential streets, so it naturally fits into an afternoon of walking without requiring any detour. It’s not a must-see, but it’s one of those spots that make the city feel more livable and pleasant.
Here are all your accommodation options in Santiago
Parque Forestal
Parque Forestal is one of Santiago’s most pleasant green spaces and a great place to walk through when moving between neighbourhoods. Long and narrow, it stretches along the river and connects several museums, cafés, and residential streets. On weekends, it fills with families, runners, street performers, and people enjoying the shade under the trees.
It’s also where you’ll find the Fuente Alemana, a beautiful fountain that looks especially striking with the backdrop of the park. We enjoyed strolling through Parque Forestal on our way back toward the centre, taking our time to watch everyday life unfold — kids playing, people sketching, couples sitting on benches, and musicians rehearsing in the grass.
It’s not a “big attraction” in the classic sense, but it’s one of those places that gives Santiago its character. If you’re spending more than one day in the city, Parque Forestal is a lovely way to slow down, reset, and enjoy a quieter moment between busier sights.
Bohemian District (Barrio Lastarria)
As the day winds down, the Bohemian District — also known as Barrio Lastarria — is one of the best areas to explore. In the morning it feels quiet and a bit sleepy, but by late afternoon and evening it transforms into a lively neighbourhood filled with small shops, cafés, wine bars, and street artists. It’s one of the few places in Santiago where you instantly feel a more relaxed, creative atmosphere.
We ended our day here and loved how different it felt from the city centre. Independent boutiques, second-hand bookstores, artisan markets, and small restaurants spill onto the sidewalks. It’s also where we found some of the best vegan empanadas we tried in Chile — a tiny spot called Madhu, simple but genuinely delicious.
The Bohemian District is a great place to wander without thinking too much about what’s next. Just follow the small streets, stop for a snack or a drink, and enjoy the neighbourhood’s easygoing vibe before heading back to your hotel. It’s one of the parts of Santiago that feels the most “local” and is a perfect way to finish a full day of exploring.
Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.
Fuente Neptuno / Castillo Hidalgo
Before wrapping up your day in Santiago, make a quick stop at Fuente Neptuno, located at the entrance of Cerro Santa Lucía. This ornate fountain is one of the most photographed corners of the hill — a mix of European-style architecture, flowing water, and decorative statues. It’s especially beautiful in the late afternoon when the light hits the stone façade.
Just above it stands Castillo Hidalgo, a 19th-century fortress built as a military structure and later transformed for cultural events. While the interior isn’t always open for casual visits, the terrace and exterior walls are worth seeing. From here, you get a quiet view over the city and a sense of how Santiago looked in earlier times.
Tip: Now, that we travel with baby Milo, we always bring this Babybjorn baby carrier with us.
Take a day trip to Valparaiso
If you have an extra day in Santiago, a trip to Valparaíso is one of the best excursions you can make. The city sits on the Pacific coast, about an hour and a half from the capital, and feels completely different from Santiago — colourful, chaotic, artistic, and built across steep hills that open onto the ocean.
Valparaíso is famous for its street art, old funiculars, and maze-like alleys that wind through neighbourhoods full of murals and small cafés. Walking around feels like exploring an open-air museum, with something new painted on every corner. Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción are the easiest to explore and give you a good feel for the city’s creative energy.
It’s also a city with a lot of history. The architecture reflects its past as one of South America’s most important ports, and many of the buildings have a slightly worn, nostalgic charm. We loved getting lost in the narrow streets, stopping for coffee, and taking in the ocean views from the hilltops.
The best way to get visit Valparaiso is with the Valparaiso, Viña del Mar, & Casablanca Valley Tour
Day Trip to Cajón del Maipo & Embalse El Yeso
If you have an extra day in Santiago, a trip to Cajón del Maipo and Embalse El Yeso is one of the most unforgettable experiences you can add to your itinerary. This corner of the Andes feels nothing like the capital—think dramatic mountain cliffs, turquoise glacial water, pure silence, and landscapes that look like Patagonia’s little cousin just an hour and a half from the city.
Most tours include a stop in Cajón del Maipo, where you can stretch your legs, taste local snacks, and enjoy the fresh mountain air before driving deeper into the valley. The highlight is Embalse El Yeso, a bright blue reservoir set at over 2,500 meters of altitude, completely surrounded by snow-capped peaks. It’s the perfect place for photos, slow walks, and catching your breath—literally.
Many operators finish the visit with a picnic overlooking the reservoir, complete with wine, cheese, snacks, and blankets. It’s simple but incredibly scenic, and easily one of the most memorable moments of the day.
Santiago Itinerary
1 Day in Santiago: If you’re short on time, this route lets you see the essentials without feeling rushed.
- Visit Plaza de Armas
- Enter the Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago
- Walk the main pedestrian street
- Stop at Santiago Central Market
- Walk along the river toward Bellavista
- Explore Bellavista
- Hike or take the funicular up San Cristóbal Hill
- Optional: Cable Car
- Wander through Metropolitano Park
- Stroll through Sculpture Park Museum and Parque Forestal
- End the day in the Bohemian District
- Quick stop at Fuente Neptuno / Castillo Hidalgo
2 Days in Santiago. Everything from Day 1, plus:
- Day trip to Valparaiso
3 Days in Santiago: Everything from Day 1 + Day 2, plus:
- Take a day trip to Cajon del Maipo & Embalse El Yeso Trip with Picnic
A 1-day itinerary covers the highlights, but with 2 or 3 days you get to enjoy Santiago at a more relaxed rhythm and discover the everyday life behind the capital’s main attractions.
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About the authors
We are Alex and Tina, a French-Serbian couple who met in China back in 2014. We spent three incredible years there before making France our home. Our shared passion for travel has been the heartbeat of our relationship for over 12 years, taking us across 44 countries and counting.
We launched TheDailyPackers in 2019 as a way to document our adventures. In 2026, we reached a major milestone by officially turning our blog into our full-time job. While we are still growing toward financial independence through this platform, every article we write is fueled by our mission to make your voyages easier through in-depth guides, honest advice, and the lessons we’ve learned from our own mistakes.
Our journey has not been without its storms. In 2023, our world changed forever when our first son, Poppy, was stillborn on November 25th. It was, and remains, the hardest chapter of our lives. In 2025, we were blessed with our second little boy, Milo. He has since joined our traveling tribe, and you’ll be seeing him—and the reality of traveling with a little one-on the blog more and more.
We hope to inspire you to explore the world with curiosity and resilience. Thank you for being part of our story.
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