Santiago, Chile is a vibrant and exciting city with a rich culture and history. It is the capital of Chile and the largest city in the country, with a population of over 6 million people. With its stunning mountain backdrop, lively nightlife, and diverse neighborhoods, Santiago is a great destination for travelers looking to explore South America. Whether you're looking for adventure, culture, nightlife, or just a relaxing getaway, Santiago has something for everyone. Here are the top 20 places to see in Santiago, Chile.
1. Cerro Santa Lucia: This hilltop park is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Santiago. It is the site of a former fortress built in 1541 by Pedro de Valdivia, the Spanish conquistador who founded Santiago. The park offers stunning views of the city and is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of Santiago.
2. Plaza de Armas: This is the main square in Santiago and the heart of the city. It is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Palacio de La Real Audiencia, the former seat of the Spanish colonial government. The square is also home to the Santiago City Hall and the National History Museum.
3. San Cristobal Hill: This hill is located in the middle of the city and offers a great view of the city and the Andes Mountains. It is also home to the Sanctuary of the Immaculate Conception, a beautiful church dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
4. La Moneda Palace: This is the official residence of the President of Chile and the seat of the Chilean government. It is a beautiful building with a neoclassical facade and is open to the public for guided tours.
5. Parque Forestal: This park is located along the Mapocho River and is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. It is home to several museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Contemporary Art.
6. Mercado Central: This is the largest market in Santiago and the perfect place to buy souvenirs and sample local food. It is a great place to explore and experience the culture of Santiago.
7. Barrio Bellavista: This is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Santiago and is known for its vibrant nightlife. It is home to some of the city's best restaurants, bars, and clubs, as well as several cultural attractions.
8. Barrio Lastarria: This is a trendy neighborhood located near the city center. It is home to some of the city's best restaurants, cafes, galleries, and shops.
9. Cerro San Cristobal: This hill is located in the northern part of the city and offers stunning views of the city and the Andes Mountains. It is home to the National Zoo and a large statue of the Virgin Mary.
10. Parque Bicentenario: This is a large park located in the eastern part of Santiago. It is home to several attractions, including a botanical garden, a lake, and a Japanese garden.
11. La Vega Central: This is the largest market in Santiago and is the perfect place to buy fresh produce and sample local food.
12. Cerro Manquehue: This hill is located in the western part of the city and offers stunning views of the city and the Andes Mountains. It is home to several trails and is a great place to hike and explore.
13. Parque O'Higgins: This is a large park located in the southern part of Santiago. It is home to several attractions, including a lake, a botanical garden, and a Japanese garden.
14. Bellavista Neighborhood: This is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Santiago and is known for its vibrant nightlife. It is home to some of the city's best restaurants, bars, and clubs, as well as several cultural attractions.
15. Plaza de la Constitucion: This is the main square in Santiago and the heart of the city. It is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Palacio de La Real Audiencia, the former seat of the Spanish colonial government.
16. San Cristobal Hill: This hill is located in the middle of the city and offers a great view of the city and the Andes Mountains. It is also home to the Sanctuary of the Immaculate Conception, a beautiful church dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
17. Cerro San Cristobal: This hill is located in the northern part of the city and offers stunning views of the city and the Andes Mountains. It is home to the National Zoo and a large statue of the Virgin Mary.
18. Parque Bicentenario: This is a large park located in the eastern part of Santiago. It is home to several attractions, including a botanical garden, a lake, and a Japanese garden.
19. La Vega Central: This is the largest market in Santiago and is the perfect place to buy fresh produce and sample local food.
20. Cerro Manquehue: This hill is located in the western part of the city and offers stunning views of the city and the Andes Mountains. It is home to several trails and is a great place to hike and explore.