Santiago, Chile
Surprising, cosmopolitan, energetic, sophisticated, and worldly, Santiago is a city of syncopated cultural currents, madhouse parties, expansive museums and top-flight restaurants. It's a wonderful place for strolling, and each neighborhood has its unique flavor and tone. Head out for the day to take in the museums, grand architecture and pedestrian malls of the Centro, before an afternoon picnic in one of the gorgeous hillside parks that punctuate the city's landscape. Nightlife takes off in the sidewalk eateries, cafes and beer halls of Barrios Brasil, Lastarria and Bellavista. And with a growing economy, renovated arts scene and plenty of eccentricity to spare, Santiago is an old-guard city on the cusp of a modern-day renaissance.
Know Before You Go
Andes (Eye) Candies
There is a large urban park system, the beautiful Andes Mountains that surround the city and various hiking trails.
Take a Hike
Santiago and the surrounding areas are great for outdoor sports like skiing, hiking, biking and surfing.
Wine & Food
Chile is a major wine producer and has many vineyards to visit (not far from Santiago). There are also a lot of up-and-coming restaurants, offering a great range of international cuisine.
Santiago’s History
Chile has a complicated political history that travelers should learn about when visiting Santiago. The "Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos" is a good place to get educated.
Start-up City
There are a lot of entrepreneurs and start-up projects here in Chile. Additionally, there has been a lot of success with “Start-up Chile,” a popular public startup accelerator that works with more than 1,600 companies and has inspired similar programs around the world.
An Important Note
Santiago experienced a major social-political crisis in October, lasting up until the COVID-19 crisis. This resulted in some property destruction and protesting in different parts of the city. Like everywhere else, Santiago has also been dealing with the pandemic.
Can’t-Miss Neighborhoods
Barrio Italia
Barrio Italia is full of – you guessed it – Italian restaurants, pizzerias, gelato spots, and more, all with shaded pavement tables. It’s a great neighborhood for anyone looking to pick up some local clothing or other handmade items; Paseo Estación Italia is a tiny mall with shops selling goods and Chilean designer fashions, as well as home décor stores and food stalls. You’ll no doubt have worked up an appetite after just a couple of busy hours here, so enjoy the Italian food scene – or just look for one of countless laid-back wine bars.
Bellas Artes/Lastarria
Modern, eclectic Bellas Artes and the more traditional Lastarria are two neighborhoods that, while unique, somehow manage to blur together into one. Bellas Artes is full of bang-for-your-buck dining spots, and it’s also the place to go to for an authentic empanada. Lastarria, meanwhile, is decidedly higher-end, with more upscale dining. No matter your preference, these neighborhoods are fun for travelers yet also locally beloved.
Las Condes
Las Condes is known for upscale hotels and restaurants, running the gamut from high-end South American fare to tasty Japanese – and a handful of fast-food chains. There are plenty of bars that fill up around happy hour with the post-work crowd, and Pueblito Los Dominicos sells souvenirs like jewelry and clothing, plus food. Nature lovers are welcome, too: Aguas de Ramón Park is a forested area with plenty of trails to hike, bike, jog, or simply stroll.
When to Go
November is a nice time to visit because of the weather; it’s the end of spring/beginning of summer, and therefore warm outside, but not too hot. June-August is the winter down here, a great time to visit for people who want to ski or snowboard. For travelers who want to experience local culture, September is a great time to visit as Chileans celebrate the independence holiday and serve up plenty of traditional food, play games, and watch the typical Chilean dance known as the “cueca.” Spring and fall are also good times to visit due to the pleasant weather.
Featured Local: Jenny Tolep
Jenny is a professional journalist and content marketer from the United States. Almost five years ago, she moved to Chile in search of adventure and quickly fell in love with the country’s natural beauty and unique travel opportunities. Today she resides in Santiago, Chile’s capital city, where she enjoys going on fun weekend getaways, trying new restaurants and hiking.
Jenny’s Must-Dos
Chipe Libre
Bring your date to downtown's No. 1 pisco bar and restaurant. Chipe Libre offers a diverse range of food and extensive list of cocktails, most of which feature Chile's favorite liquor: pisco. Pisco is one of the most popular drinks in Chile, mixing well with a variety of flavors. Allow your date to indulge in Chile's finest cocktails and learn more about the local food and culture.
Galindo
If you're looking to try a traditional Chilean meal, then come to Galindo located in Bellavista, Santiago’s young and lively neighborhood. It’s a fun atmosphere and oftentimes musicians come and play near the outdoor seating area. For food, you can’t go wrong with a warm, delicious pastel de choclo, Chile’s sweet corn pie. Another delicious choice is a meat pie called empanada de pino or a hearty stew dish known as cazuela. All meals go great with Chile’s favorite cocktail, a Pisco sour!
Jenny’s Recs
Verde Sazón
This cute, colorful spot in Barrio Italia is one place that you absolutely cannot miss! This restaurant only makes vegetarian dishes, but each one is delicious and full of tasty flavor. Try the veggie curry dish or a burger made out of mushrooms or lentils. There are also several unique cocktails and mouth-watering desserts to pick from. It’s the perfect lunch spot!
Yerba Loca
Believe it or not, you can actually go to a glacier in Santiago. Parque Yerba Loca is on the outskirts of the city and an excellent spot to spend a weekend camping and trekking. Embark on this adventure and you will get a chance to see the incredible Glacier La Paloma.
Lolita Jones
Talk about chic! Lolita Jones is the perfect date spot if you are looking for something trendy and elegant. This Mexican restaurant offers a fun, big-city vibe, as well as fabulous cocktails and delicious food. Try ordering their chocolate layered dessert, fresh tacos or special homemade guacamole (sometimes they throw in bits of pineapple for a sweet kick).
