Occupying a prime piece of real estate between the Pacific Ocean and the Andes Mountains, the capital of long and skinny Chile boasts Latino flair and colonial architecture. Things to do in Santiago de Chile range from exploring the bohemian, hilltop neighborhood of Bellavista; soaking up views of the Santiago skyline from Santa Lucia or San Cristobal Hill; and feasting on hearty Chileno classics at the Central Market. But the city also serves as a convenient gateway to some of the country’s wonders, including the vibrant, UNESCO-listed port town of Valparaiso; the charming seaside town of Viña del Mar; and the Concha y Toro Winery, one of the largest wine producers in South America.
Santiago is a year-round destination with four distinct seasons instead of a wet or dry period. The summer months of December through February are a great time to visit, as the majority of locals flock to the Lake District and leave Chile’s capital emptier than at other times of the year. Explore the city’s surrounding vineyards in spring (September–November) when they’re lush and green after the winter rains.
The city’s metro system is fast, safe, and easy to navigate. Its five lines service the top things to do in Santiago’s city center, and it runs from early morning through late evening. Pay as you go for single tickets, or invest in a rechargeable BIP card, which is the only payment method accepted on Santiago’s buses. Avoid traveling in packed morning and evening rush hours. If you want to travel like the locals, flag down a colectivo—a shared taxi.
Though Lastarria and Bellavista hog the limelight when it comes to the city’s most popular barrios, Barrio Yungay is an architectural treasure chest—it's even been featured on a list of the world’s most attractive neighborhoods. Here, you’ll find facades inspired by art deco, baroque, and Bauhaus design, as well as leafy squares, high-end restaurants, and the Quinta Normal Park, with its boating lake, public library, and water features.
