Things to do · Santiago, Chile
Things to Do in Santiago
Scan the list, tap + on what you love, and watch your Santiago days take shape on the right.
- Getting there
- Santiago is served by Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL), which sits about 15 km east of downtown and handles most international traffic. Typical routes include connections through Miami, Panama City or Bogotá for North American travelers, and direct flights from Buenos Aires and Lima. Buses and cars also link the city via the Pan‑American Highway, and a commuter rail line connects the airport to the central station.
- Who goes
- Around five million tourists visit Santiago each year, drawn by its mix of cultural sites, wine country proximity and vibrant neighborhoods. The city peaks in the Southern Hemisphere summer—December through February—when locals and visitors alike flock to outdoor plazas, while the shoulder months of May and June tend to feel quieter and more relaxed.
- Budgeting
- A careful traveler can expect to spend roughly CLP 30,000–45,000 per day (about $35–$50), whereas a more comfortable pace might run CLP 70,000–100,000 (approximately $80–$120). Accommodation and restaurant choices usually dominate the budget, so opting for public‑transport passes and meals at markets like La Vega can shave a noticeable amount off the total. Estimate →
San Cristóbal Hill
attraction
A large hilltop park in Santiago crowned by a statue of the Virgin Mary, offering sweeping views of the city and the Andes. Travelers visit for panoramic vistas, gardens, and outdoor recreation.
Santa Lucía Hill
attraction
A landscaped historic hill in central Santiago with ornate stairways, fountains, and viewpoints over the city, built on the site of the city's founding.
Sky Costanera
attraction · 20000 CLP
An observation deck atop the tallest building in Latin America, offering 360-degree panoramic views of Santiago and the Andes.
Lastarria
neighborhood
A charming historic neighborhood in Santiago known for its cobblestone streets, cafes, boutiques, museums, and cultural venues. Travelers visit for its refined, artsy atmosphere and dining.
Cenco Costanera Mall Shopping
attraction
A large upscale shopping mall in Santiago attached to the Sky Costanera tower, offering hundreds of stores, dining, and entertainment. Travelers go to shop and access the observation deck.
La Chascona
attraction · 4500 CLP
The former Santiago home of poet Pablo Neruda, now a museum showcasing his eclectic collections and life. A key cultural and literary landmark in the Bellavista neighborhood.
Bellavista
attraction
A lively bohemian neighborhood in Santiago known for its colorful street art, restaurants, bars, and nightlife at the foot of San Cristóbal Hill. Travelers visit for its vibrant cultural scene and after-dark energy.
Estación Pío Nono Funicular Santiago by Turistik
attraction
The historic funicular station carrying visitors up San Cristóbal Hill for panoramic views of Santiago. Travelers ride it for the scenic ascent and city vistas.
Museum of Memory & Human Rights
attraction
A powerful museum documenting the human rights violations during Chile's military dictatorship. It is a moving destination for travelers seeking to understand recent Chilean history.
Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art
attraction
A renowned museum showcasing pre-Columbian art and artifacts from across the Americas, ideal for travelers interested in indigenous cultures and history.
Vega Central de Santiago
attraction
A bustling traditional market in Santiago selling fresh produce, meats, and Chilean specialties alongside cheap eateries. Travelers visit for an authentic local market experience and inexpensive food.
Santiago
neighborhood
The capital of Chile, a large metropolis set against the Andes, offering museums, markets, dining, parks, and cultural sites across diverse neighborhoods.
Museo de la Moda
attraction
A fashion museum housing an extensive private collection of clothing and accessories spanning centuries, including pieces once owned by famous figures. Travelers visit for its rotating exhibitions of historic and contemporary fashion.
Oasis station. Cerro San Cristobal Cable Car
attraction
A cable car (teleférico) ascending Cerro San Cristóbal, offering panoramic views over Santiago as it rises above the city. Travelers ride it for the scenic overlook and access to the hilltop park.
O’Higgins Park
park
A large historic urban park in central Santiago with green spaces, walking paths, and event venues. It is a popular spot for locals to relax, stroll, and gather.
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