Alan’s Top 10 things to do in Santiago

Santiago: Top 10 things to do

Andean Trails’ Alan lived many years in Santiago, Chile’s capital, and here he shares his Top 10 things to do there.

He says: “Santiago, the capital of Chile, is a buzzing city of nearly 6 million people. It nestles into the Andes with peaks of nearly 6,000m  soaring above the city.

“I had the pleasure of living there for 10 years, enjoying the long dry hot summers and mild winters. Santiago in winter does have an issue with smog but nothing can beat the view of the snow covered Andes when the sun comes out after a rainy wintry day.

“Below please find a list of my top 10, and as they say, in no particular order:”

Santiago, Chile

Bellavista – For a night out you have to visit one or two (or more) of the many bars and restaurants in the bohemian district of Bellavista. However, remember, things get going late!

Mercado Central – The colourful central fish market with many restaurants. A great place to sample the delights of Chile’s coast and the locals swear by it after a heavy night out!

Barrio Lastarria – This area has been declared a site of patrimonial interest and retains its old world charm. Great to stroll and visit the cafes and museums.

La Chascona – The museum which was the Santiago home of Chile’s Nobel prize winning poet Pablo Neruda in Bellavista.

Museo Pre Colombino – One of Chile’s finest museums with a fine display of Pre Columbian artefacts.

Cerro San Cristobal – Take the funicular railway to the top of Santiago’s highest hill, where a statue of the Virgin Mary overlooks the city. Great panoramic views.

Pueblito Los Dominicos – It is a craft market with charm and character as the stalls are small adobe huts. There are also gardens set next to an old Dominican church.

Plaza de Armas – The main square in the centre of Santiago where you will find the Cathedral and a great place to people watch.

Metro – Santiago’s underground railway is modern and one of the most efficient ways to get around the city. All the stations are distinctive and some have great murals such as the Estacion Universidad de Chile.

Costanera Center – Chile’s number one pastime – Mall culture! Santiago’s newest mall and part of a complex which also has the tallest building in the Southern hemisphere, the 300m, 63 floor, Gran Torre Santiago.

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