Things To Do
in Santiago
Santiago, Brazil is a sun-drenched southern city perched along a broad river bend, where European-influenced architecture meets warm gaucho hospitality. The city blends historic plazas, lively markets, and a scenic waterfront that comes alive at sunrise and after sunset. Its cuisine leans on hearty churrasco, mandioca, and mate, complemented by a vibrant street-food scene.
Visitors can expect a relaxed pace, friendly locals, and a landscape of rolling hills and farmland just beyond the urban core.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning with a visit to the stunning Catedral Metropolitana, where the intricate architecture and peaceful ambiance set the tone for your day. Stroll through the surrounding Praça de Armas, where local artisans and street performers bring the vibrant culture to life. Grab a traditional breakfast at one of the nearby cafes, savoring a pão de queijo with a strong Brazilian coffee.
In the afternoon, explore the Museu Histórico Nacional to gain insights into Brazil's rich history through its captivating exhibits. Afterward, wander through the charming streets of the historic center, stopping at local shops to pick up unique souvenirs. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a traditional restaurant, tasting regional dishes such as feijoada or moqueca.
As dusk falls, head to the lively neighborhood of Bellavista, known for its colorful street art and vibrant nightlife. Dine at a local restaurant, indulging in fresh seafood or grilled meats, paired with a glass of Chilean wine. Finish the evening at a lively bar, enjoying live music and mingling with locals.
Begin your day at the Mercado Central, a bustling market renowned for its fresh seafood and local delicacies. Wander through the various stalls, sampling freshly prepared dishes and picking up unique ingredients for your culinary adventures. Engage with friendly vendors who are eager to share stories about their goods and the local gastronomy.
Spend your afternoon at the Feria de Los Libros, a vibrant book fair showcasing local authors and artists, where you can find both literature and art to inspire you. After your literary exploration, relax at a nearby park, enjoying the green space and perhaps even a game of footvolley with locals. Treat yourself to a delicious street snack, such as empanadas or coxinhas, from nearby food trucks.
In the evening, make your way to a traditional churrascaria for an authentic Brazilian barbecue experience. The atmosphere is lively, filled with the sounds of sizzling meat and laughter, as waiters serve you a variety of grilled meats straight from the skewer. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll along the river, soaking in the night views of the city.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚎One-way public transport ticket | $0.75-1.50 |
| 🏨3-star hotel per night | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and a relaxed pace
- Rich Gaucho heritage and cuisine
- Compact center is easy to explore on foot
- Affordable food and lodging compared with bigger cities
- Limited international flight options
- Less prominent tourism infrastructure than major cities
- Seasonal rain can disrupt outdoor plans
- Language barrier for travelers who don't speak Portuguese
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Pode indicar um bom restaurante próximo?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant nearby?
Places to Visit in Santiago
Visit one of these nice places.
A hilltop viewpoint offering sweeping views of the river, old town rooftops, and the sunset over the plains.
Historic square framed by the cathedral and colonial façades, ideal for morning light portraits.
A vintage bridge with reflections on the water and moored boats—perfect for golden-hour shots.
Colorful stalls and brick arches make for vibrant street photography inside the market.
Scenic lakeside trail with wooden decks and birds, a peaceful nature photo spot.
Food in Santiago
Santiago Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A generous assortment of grilled meats served with pão, farofa, and salads in a parrilla or churrascaria.
Must-Try!
A comforting rice dish cooked with dried meat, peppers, and herbs; a rustic staple in local homes.
Sweet, nutty pine nuts roasted on embers, a seasonal treat enjoyed at fairs and ranches.
Yerba mate infusion served in a gourd with a metal bombilla, shared among friends as a social ritual.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where locals buy fresh produce, cheeses, and regional snacks.
Riverside street stalls offering empadas, pastel, barbeque skewers, and bottled drinks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'bom dia/boa tarde' and a handshake or kiss on the cheek among friends; address elders as 'senhor' or 'senhora'.
Finish your plate before asking for the check; say 'obrigado/obrigada' when leaving.
Be punctual for meetings; modest dress in religious sites; avoid loud conversations in sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Santiago
Ensure a smooth experience
A service tip of around 5-10% is common if no service charge is included; you can tip more for exceptional service.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms possible. Pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a rain shell for sudden showers.
Mild temperatures and golden light; great for outdoor walks and photography with falling leaves.
Cooler days with occasional winds from the south; evenings can be chilly, so bring a light jacket.
Fresh vegetation and pleasant temperatures; pleasant for hiking and outdoor markets.
Santiago at Night
Hiking in Santiago
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic hillside trail with panoramic views and birdwatching opportunities.
Easy loops through scrubland and wetlands with wildlife spotting.
Airports
How to reach Santiago by plane.
Major hub about 300-350 km from Santiago; flights connect to domestic and international destinations.
Regional airport closer to southern RS towns with occasional international connections.
Coastal regional airport serving nearby communities with limited schedule.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A core cultural group with roots in cattle ranching, strong appreciation for barbecue and horsemanship.
Significant Italian and German ancestry shapes architecture, cuisine, and festivals.
A growing mix of residents from neighboring regions contributing to a multilingual, cosmopolitan feel.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region’s favorite sport with local matches, friendly rivalries, and street/team gatherings.
Popular on riverfront beaches and parks during warm months.
Occasional regional competitions near the lagoons.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santiago.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose salads, grilled vegetables, beans, rice, cheese, eggs, and pastas. Many places can adapt dishes; ask for options like 'sem carne' or 'sem peixe'.