Things To Do
in Santiago

Santiago, Peru is a vibrant city nestled in the Andes mountains, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and diverse culture. The capital is a hub of commerce and education, offering a blend of modern conveniences and colonial charm. With its lively streets, beautiful parks, and delicious cuisine, Santiago is a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike.

Visitors can explore historical sites, enjoy outdoor adventures, and immerse themselves in the local arts scene.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Heart of Santiago
morning
:

Start your day at Plaza de Armas, the city's main square, where you can admire the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Central Post Office. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Visit the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino to learn about the region's indigenous cultures. Afterward, stroll through the Bellavista neighborhood, known for its colorful street art and artisan shops.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant in Bellavista, followed by a visit to the Sky Costanera, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city at sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in Parque Metropolitano, the largest urban park in Chile. Climb to the top of San Cristóbal Hill for stunning views of Santiago and the Andes.

afternoon
:

After your hike, head to the Barrio Lastarria for lunch and explore its boutiques and galleries. Visit the Museo de Bellas Artes for a dose of culture.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Chilean dinner at a restaurant in Lastarria, followed by a performance at a local theater or live music venue.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍺Local beer$4
🚌Public transport ticket$1
🏨Budget hotel per night$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Diverse culinary scene.
  • Stunning views and outdoor activities.
  • Traffic congestion can be an issue.
  • Public transportation may be crowded.
  • Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Santiago

Visit one of these nice places.

Cerro San Cristóbal

Offers breathtaking views of Santiago and the Andes, perfect for sunrise or sunset shots.

Plaza de Armas

The historic heart of the city, surrounded by stunning architecture and vibrant street life.

Barrio Bellavista

A colorful neighborhood filled with street art, ideal for capturing the artistic spirit of Santiago.

Culinary Guide

Food in Santiago

Santiago's culinary scene is a delightful fusion of traditional and contemporary flavors, showcasing the best of Peruvian cuisine and local ingredients.

Santiago Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ceviche

Fresh fish marinated in citrus juices, often served with onions and sweet potatoes.

Must-Try!

Lomo Saltado

A stir-fry dish combining beef, onions, tomatoes, and French fries, served with rice.

Aji de Gallina

A creamy chicken stew made with aji amarillo peppers and served with rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Central

A bustling market famous for its seafood, offering a wide variety of fresh fish and local dishes.

La Vega Central

One of the largest food markets in Santiago, perfect for sampling local fruits, vegetables, and street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Santiago experiences a Mediterranean climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (December to February) are hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Autumn (March to May) sees cooler temperatures and occasional rain, while winters (June to August) can be cold and wet, averaging around 10°C (50°F). Spring (September to November) brings mild weather as the city transitions back to warmth.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common, and close friends often greet each other with a kiss on the cheek.

Personal space

Chileans value personal space, so maintain a respectful distance during conversations.

Punctuality

Being on time is appreciated in professional settings, but social gatherings may have a more relaxed approach.

Safety Guide

Safety

Santiago is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it is wise to remain vigilant. Avoid displaying valuables and be cautious in crowded areas. Utilize reputable transportation options and avoid poorly lit streets at night.

Tipping in Santiago

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but carrying cash is advisable for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December to February)

Expect warm and dry weather, ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

Autumn (March to May)

Mild temperatures and beautiful fall foliage make this a lovely time to visit.

Winter (June to August)

Cool and rainy, but perfect for enjoying indoor attractions and cozy cafes.

Spring (September to November)

Mild weather and blooming flowers create a picturesque atmosphere for exploring the city.

Nightlife Guide

Santiago at Night

Santiago boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, with a mix of bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. The Bellavista and Lastarria neighborhoods are popular for their trendy bars and clubs, offering everything from salsa dancing to craft cocktails. Many venues feature live music, showcasing local talent across diverse genres, making it a lively place to spend your evening.

Hiking in Santiago

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro La Campana

A stunning hike located about 50 km from Santiago, offering panoramic views and diverse flora and fauna.

El Morado

A beautiful hiking trail that leads to a glacier, located about 90 km from Santiago, perfect for a day trip into nature.

Airports

How to reach Santiago by plane.

Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL)

The main international airport serving Santiago, located approximately 15 km from the city center, with connections to various destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Santiago is quite walkable, especially in areas like downtown, Bellavista, and Lastarria. Many attractions are within walking distance, and the sidewalks are generally well-maintained. However, be cautious of traffic, especially in busy intersections.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Chilean Mestizos

The majority ethnic group in Chile, a mix of Indigenous and European ancestry.

Indigenous Peoples

Various Indigenous groups, including the Mapuche, who have a rich cultural heritage and history in the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Santiago, with passionate fans supporting local teams, especially Universidad de Chile and Colo-Colo.

Tennis

Tennis has a significant following, with many local courts and events, and several professional tournaments held each year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Santiago can be congested, particularly during rush hours. The city has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and the Metro, which is efficient and widely used. Using public transport is often the best way to navigate the city during peak times.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Santiago.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to check with the staff.

Gluten-Free

While gluten-free options are becoming more common, dedicated gluten-free restaurants are limited.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Santiago offers a mix of public and private healthcare services. Private hospitals and clinics are generally of high quality and cater to international patients. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers healthcare costs, as public healthcare can be slow and crowded.

Discover Peru

Read more in our Peru 2025 Travel Guide.

Peru Travel Guide