Your Complete Guide to Exploring the Best of Santiago
Santiago is a vibrant, modern city surrounded by stunning mountains, offering a blend of urban life and natural beauty. It’s easy to navigate with an affordable metro system and bustling streets filled with markets and cafes. Budget-friendly accommodations are plentiful, making it perfect for backpackers. With a mild climate and welcoming locals, Santiago is an excellent base for exploring the region.
When to visit
Temp
Mar – May
Sep – Nov
3 – 33°C
37 – 91°F
Santiago’s Top Attractions
Attraction Matrix
Search for attractions that you are interested in based on WindingTravel categories:
WindingTravel Category Examples
Nature & Outdoors: Hiking, National Parks, Beaches, Wildlife Viewing, Camping
Culture & History: Museums, Monuments, Historical Buildings, Cultural Tours, Art Galleries
Food & Drink: Local Cuisine, Food Tours, Markets, Wineries/Breweries, Street Food
Entertainment & Nightlife: Bars, Nightclubs, Live Music, Festivals, Comedy Clubs
Adventure Sports: Surfing, Skydiving, Rafting, Scuba Diving, Climbing
Relaxation & Wellness: Spas, Hot Springs, Yoga Retreats, Meditation Centres, Thermal Baths
Shopping & Markets: Souvenirs, Flea Markets, Shopping Districts, Boutique Shops, Craft Fairs
Unique Experiences: Workshops, Volunteering, Local Festivals, Artisan Crafts, Rooftop Bars
City Highlights: Iconic Landmarks, Famous Streets, Observation Decks, Architectural Tours, Scenic Views
Family-Friendly: Zoos, Aquariums, Theme Parks, Interactive Museums, Educational Centres
Country Highlights: Attractions that are on the WindingTravel Country page that most tourists wont want to miss!
Review further details of each attraction to find out more:
| Valle Nevado | Go skiing or snowboarding at Valle Nevado, one of Chile’s premier ski resorts, located high in the Andes just a short drive from Santiago. |
| Punta de Lobos | Enjoy world-class surfing at Punta de Lobos, a stunning beach known for its towering cliffs, powerful waves, and laid-back vibe. |
| Cajón del Maipo | Escape to Cajón del Maipo, a picturesque valley offering outdoor activities like hiking, rafting, and hot springs, surrounded by the Andes mountains. |
| Cerro San Cristóbal | Hike or take a funicular to the top of Cerro San Cristóbal, a hill offering panoramic views of Santiago and home to the towering statue of the Virgin Mary. |
| Valparaíso | Visit the colourful port city of Valparaíso, known for its artistic murals, vibrant hilltop neighbourhoods, and steep funiculars offering panoramic views. |
| Santa Lucía Hill | Visit Santa Lucía Hill, a beautifully landscaped park in the heart of Santiago, offering historical monuments, fountains, and sweeping views of the city. |
| Bellavista Neighbourhood | Wander through the bohemian Bellavista neighbourhood, famous for its street art, lively nightlife, art galleries, and an array of restaurants and bars. |
| Plaza de Armas | Explore Santiago’s Plaza de Armas, the historic city square surrounded by colonial buildings, including the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Central Post Office. |
| La Chascona | Visit La Chascona, one of Nobel laureate Pablo Neruda’s former homes, filled with quirky details and personal memorabilia from his life as a poet. |
| Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino | Discover the rich history of Chile’s indigenous cultures at the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino, featuring a vast collection of ancient artifacts. |
Check the map to plan your route:
Transport
Santiago has a comprehensive public transport system, including a metro, buses, and taxis, all of which are affordable and easy to use. The metro is the fastest way to get around. Ride-hailing apps like Uber, Cabify, and Didi are also widely available for convenient travel around the city.
Seasonality and Weather
Santiago experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer (December–February) is warm, with temperatures ranging from 18°C–33°C (64°F–91°F). Autumn (March–May) is cooler and more temperate, with temperatures between 10°C–25°C (50°F–77°F). Winter (June–August) is chilly, with temperatures averaging 3°C–15°C (37°F–59°F) and occasional rain. Spring (September–November) is mild and pleasant, with temperatures from 10°C–25°C (50°F–77°F).
The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is comfortable and ideal for outdoor activities.
Where to stay
Providencia: A central, vibrant neighbourhood with shopping, dining, and great public transport connections.
Bellavista: Known for its lively nightlife, artistic vibe, and close proximity to cultural attractions.
Las Condes: Upscale area with luxury hotels, shopping malls, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Lastarria: Trendy, charming area with boutique hotels, cafes, and proximity to museums.
Vitacura: A high-end, residential area ideal for those seeking luxury and tranquility.
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