10 things to do in Santiago You Can’t-Miss

April 14, 2025

Are you a travel enthusiast? A food lover? A thrill-seeker? An art aficionado? Then the capital of Chile, Santiago is the perfect place to spend your holidays. Located between the towering Andes Mountains and rolling valleys, this place holds an enchanted landscape with a modest urban setting. From beautiful colonial architecture to world-class museums, from fresh seafood to empanadas, this city is the home of the ultimate beauty. You can easily access the picturesque Maipo Valley wine region or take a trip to the Andes for breathtaking hiking or adventure. In this blog, we will discuss about 10 things to do in Santiago, that you can not miss. From exploring cultural landmarks to experiencing the local flavors, here we will guide you through all the small details.

Top 10 Things To Do in Santiago

Explore Cerro San Cristóba

Rising approximately 300 meters above Santiago, Cerro San Cristobal is one of the most enchanted places that offers expansive panoramic views of the urban landscape. You can ascend this hill with a historic funicular railway operating since 1925, and a modern cable car system with 47 cabins accommodating up to six people each. At the peak, you will find a 14-meter statue of the Virgin Mary, surrounded by a sanctuary, which enhances the spiritual significance of that place.

Visit Plaza de Armas

If you are a history enthusiast, then this place could be your jam. Santiago's major historic square, Plaza de Armas, was created in 1541 by Spanish invader Pedro de Valdivia. This property is surrounded by significant landmarks, such as the Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago, which is a neoclassical edifice that has gone through several reconstructions since its establishment in the 16th century. You can also visit the Central Post Office Building and the Palacio de la Real Audiencia de Santiago, which is now known as the National History Museum.

Visit La Moneda Palace

Visiting La Mondera Palace is one of the best things to do in Santiago. This palace was inaugurated in 1805, and designed by the famous Italian architect Joaquin Toesca. this place initially served as Chole’s mint and later became the presidential residence in 1845, now known as a symbol of Chile’s political history. You can visit this neoclassical architecture with a local guide to understand the historical and cultural value of this place in details.

Neighborhood of Bellavista

Besides history and adventures if you want to experience some entertainment and food then welcome to Bellavista. This place is known for its electric dining options, lively nightlife, colorful streets, and vibrant art scene. One of the famous restaurants here is Peumayén Ancestral Food where you can find all kinds of classic cuisine. That’s not all, if you are a poetry lover, then let us tell you a secret, here you can visit La Chascina, the former home of the world-famous poet Pablo Neruda. Overall Bellavista is a seamless blend of artistic expression, with entertainment offerings, which makes it one of the top things to do in Santiago.

Visit Mercado Central

Are you a seafood lover? Let us take you to the heaven of seafood, the Mercado Central. Inaugurated in 1872, this place is known for its delicious variety of seafood. Here you can enjoy the local flavor with traditional Chilean dishes like Ceviche, which is the preparation of fresh fish marinated in citrus juice, seafood empanadas, and pastries filled with shrimp and cheese. This market features a cast-iron roof fabricated by R Laidlaw & Sons of Glasgow, which adds some more historical value to this place.

A Day Trip to Cajón del Maipo

Wanna an escape in the lap of nature? Then you can take a day trip to Cajon del Maipo, an hour’s drive from Santiago. In the foothills of the Andes, this location boasts a tranquil landscape. If you are into hiking this place is perfect for you. The center of attraction of this place is the Embalse El Yeso, which is a turquoise reservoir situated in the mountains, this place is perfect for photography or a small picnic. This place also has natural hot springs such as Termas Valle de Colina, where you can also soak in mineral-rich thermal pools.

Visit the Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art

If you are a history buff, then The Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art can be your heaven. This museum showcases over 3000 artifacts spanning nearly 10000 years from diverse Latin American cultures. Constructed between 1805 and 1807, this museum is housed in the historic Palacio de la Real Aduana. This place is full of historical wonders such as a statue of Xipe Totec, an incense burner from the Teotihuacan culture, and a Mayan bas-relief. Additionally, there are Capuli figures chewing coca leaves and pottery from the Valdivia people here. Also, this place engages in academic research and conducts educational programs and workshops for students.

Enjoy Chilean Wine in the Maipo Valley

Known as the “Bordeaux of South America”, Mapio Valley is the premier wine-producing region of Chile. Located just south of Santiago this place is renowned for its unique Cabernet Sauvignon and Carménère wines. You can visit famous wineries such as Viña Concha y Toro, Viña Santa Rita, and Viña Undurraga, to experience Chile’s rich viticultural heritage. You can learn about the history of various wines and the traditional winemaking process. Also, you can taste a sample of distinguished wines.

Wander Through Parque Bicentenario

Located in Santiago’s Vitacura district, Parque Bicentenario is an urban oasis, an ideal place for relaxation. This park holds more than 4000 trees, including over 1300 native s spanning 27 hectares along the eastern bank of the Mapocho River. Also, you can find diverse bird species, such as black-necked swans, flamingos, herons, and taguas near the two big lagoons. Besides this place has well-maintained walking and biking trails, and children’s play areas, that create a perfect environment for spending a quality family time.

Explore Barrio Lastarria

Last but not least, exploring Barrio Lastarria is one of the best things to do in Santiago. This place is renowned for its bohemian atmosphere, historic architecture, and cultural scene. You can wander through the charming streets, and visit different art galleries, boutique shops, and cafes. Also, this area is home to cultural landmarks, such as the Gabriela Mistral Cultural Center and the Museum of Visual Arts. Whether you love food, culture, or history this is the perfect place to enjoy a great evening.   Santiago is the home of rich history, vibrant culture, and natural beauty that creates a permanent place in the heart of the visitors. From the panoramic city view atop Cerro San Cristobal to the historical thrill of Plaza de Arms, the grace of this city is undeniable. Besides the world-famous seafood at Mercado Central can be heaven for seafood lovers. So if you are planning an escape, then don’t forget to add these 10 things to do in Santiago. Book your ticket today and make your dream come true.