When I first planned my trip to Santiago, I wanted more than just a typical city tour. I had seen countless photos of the Andes Mountains, charming neighborhoods, lively nightlife, and all the exciting things to do in Santiago, but I wanted to experience them myself.
After reading multiple travel blogs. So, finally decided to book my trip. What followed was one of the most enriching travel experiences of my life. In this article, I’ll share everything I discovered about the best things to do in Santiago, along with the pros, cons, and my honest review of the journey.
Why I Decided to Visit Santiago
Before choosing my destination, I compared a few cities in South America. I was torn between Lima, Buenos Aires, and Santiago. But what convinced me to pick Santiago, Chile, was its perfect balance of modern city life and natural beauty. I bought my flight ticket from an online travel agency after seeing an exciting travel deal that included free city tours. I also read some articles about the city’s food scene and cultural vibes, which made me even more eager to go—especially since I had recently been exploring ideas for Family Trips to Europe, and Santiago offered a similar mix of culture, style, and memorable experiences.
Where I Bought My Travel Package
I purchased my travel package from a site called ChileanExplorer.com, which offered a 7-day trip covering the major attractions and experiences. The price was reasonable, and the package included guided tours, hotel stays, and airport transfers. I had already flown with Frontier Airlines on previous trips, so I was comfortable booking my flight separately through them for this journey as well. I specifically chose this site because they promised local guides who know the city inside out. And they truly delivered; my guide, Rodrigo, was a gem who turned every street corner into a story.
The Reason Behind My Purchase
As a travel enthusiast and content creator, I often look for destinations that offer a mix of history, nature, and culture. Santiago seemed like the perfect fit. I wanted to write about a city that travelers could truly relate to—a place where modern life meets traditional charm. Plus, with so many LSI topics like things to do in Santiago, Chile, best things to do in Santiago, Chile, and what to do in Santiago, Chile for a day, I knew I could create a well-rounded experience for readers.
I also explored detailed guides online, including this helpful article: is santiago chile worth visiting, which gave me even more confidence that Santiago was the right destination to cover.
Exploring Santiago: My Day-to-Day Experience
1. Visiting Cerro San Cristóbal
My first stop was Cerro San Cristóbal, the city’s most iconic hill. I took the funicular to the top and was blown away by the panoramic view of the city against the Andes backdrop. There’s also a giant Virgin Mary statue at the summit, a peaceful spot for reflection. I highly recommend visiting during sunset; it’s magical. This is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Santiago, Chile, for first-timers.
2. Walking Through Barrio Bellavista
Next, I wandered through Barrio Bellavista, Santiago’s bohemian neighborhood. Filled with colorful murals, buzzing cafés, and bars, it’s the heart of the city’s creative scene. I even bought handmade jewelry from a local artisan. At night, Bellavista transforms into one of the best places to enjoy things to do in Santiago, Chile at night with live music, rooftop bars, and street performances lighting up the atmosphere.
3. Discovering Plaza de Armas and the Historical Center
No trip is complete without exploring Plaza de Armas, the city’s main square surrounded by colonial architecture. The Metropolitan Cathedral and Central Post Office are must-visit. My guide shared fascinating stories about how the square has evolved since the 1500s. It’s a great spot for people-watching, photography, and understanding the city’s soul.
4. A Day Trip to the Andes Mountains
One of my most memorable days was the Andes mountain excursion. I joined a small group tour, and we drove through winding roads surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The experience was surreal. If you’re wondering what to do in Santiago, Chile, for a day, this adventure is unbeatable. We stopped at a small cafécafé for hot chocolate, which made the chilly air feel comforting.
5. Exploring Santiago’s Museums
Santiago is rich in culture, and I spent hours at the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino. The museum showcases artifacts from ancient Latin American civilizations. Later, I visited the Museo Memoria y los Derechos Humanos, a moving tribute to Chile’s political history. Both places deepened my respect for the Chilean people and their resilience.
6. Enjoying the Local Cuisine
Food in Santiago deserves its own section! I tried traditional Chilean dishes like empanadas, pastel de choclo, and completo (Chilean-style hot dog). One of my favorite spots was “Liguria,” a trendy restaurant that serves delicious Chilean wines. Whether you’re exploring Santiago province, Chile, or just its capital, foodies will find endless delights here.
7. Experiencing Santiago’s Nightlife
After sunset, Santiago truly comes alive. I joined a group of fellow travelers at a rooftop bar in the Las Condes area. The city lights were breathtaking, and local bands played Latin jazz. For anyone searching for things to do in Santiago, Chile, at night, the nightlife scene is energetic yet sophisticated. It’s perfect for solo travelers, couples, and even families who enjoy a lively ambiance.
8. Visiting Nearby Attractions
If you have extra days, take short trips from Santiago to places like Valparaíso or Viña del Mar. These coastal cities are vibrant and full of charm. You can easily reach them by bus or car. I spent a day strolling through Valparaíso’s colorful hills and sipping coffee overlooking the sea. It’s a perfect escape from city life.
Pros and Cons of My Santiago Experience
Pros:
- Stunning natural scenery surrounded by mountains
- Friendly locals and safe neighborhoods
- Great mix of modern culture and traditional history
- Affordable food and transportation
- Excellent weather for most of the year
Cons:
- Traffic can be heavy during rush hours
- English is not widely spoken, so basic Spanish helps
- Some tourist spots get crowded during weekends
Despite these minor cons, the positives easily outweigh them. Santiago remains one of the most memorable travel destinations I’ve ever visited.
Other Santiago Destinations Worth Mentioning
While my trip focused on Santiago, Chile, I also explored articles and videos about things to do in Santiago de Compostela in Spain and, Dominican Republic. Each of these cities has its own unique culture, but Santiago, Chile, stands out with its combination of nature, culture, and warmth. Whether you visit one or all, you’ll fall in love with the name “Santiago.”
My Honest Feedback After the Trip
After spending a week exploring this incredible city, I can confidently say Santiago deserves to be on every traveler’s bucket list. The city is well-organized, clean, and full of friendly faces. The mountain views, the cultural museums, and the lively nightlife, everything left a lasting impression on me. If you ever get a chance, pack your bags and explore the best things to do in Santiago, Chile. You’ll return home with unforgettable memories.
Conclusion
Traveling to Santiago was more than just another trip; it was a life experience. From climbing Cerro San Cristóbal to tasting local wines under the Chilean night sky, every moment felt magical. I hope my personal experience helps you plan your adventure and discover what to do in Santiago, Chile, a city that truly has it all.
FAQs
Q1. What is the best time to visit Santiago, Chile?
The best time to visit September to November and March to May, when the weather is pleasant, and the tourist crowds are fewer.
Q2. Is Santiago safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Santiago is considered safe for solo travelers, especially in tourist areas. Just stay alert in crowded places and use licensed taxis or rideshare apps.
Q3. How many days do you need in Santiago?
Ideally, 3 to 5 days are enough to explore the top attractions, enjoy local food, and take a short trip to nearby places like Valparaíso.
