Things To Do
in Santiago
Santiago, Peru sits high in the Andean foothills, blending colonial charm with a lively, modern twist. Its plazas bustle with markets, cafes, and street performers against a backdrop of terraced hills and distant snow-capped peaks. The city serves as a convenient base for valley excursions, archaeological sites, and scenic viewpoints.
Visitors are greeted by warm hospitality, hearty Andean cuisine, and dramatic sunsets over the surrounding countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Santiago and settle into your accommodation. Take some time to relax and recover from your journey. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Peruvian pastries.
Start exploring the vibrant neighborhood of Bellavista, noted for its bohemian atmosphere and colorful street art. Visit La Chascona, Pablo Neruda's former home, to delve into the poet's life and works. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling the local cuisine such as empanadas and ceviche.
Unwind with a walk through Parque Forestal, taking in the beautiful scenery as the sun sets. Discover the lively nightlife of the Bellavista district with its bars and live music venues. Grab dinner in one of the many cultural eateries and immerse yourself in Santiago's culinary delights.
Visit the historic Plaza de Armas, the heart of Santiago, where you can see the stunning Metropolitan Cathedral and the Central Post Office. Explore the surrounding streets filled with shops and local vendors. Enjoy breakfast at a traditional café, indulging in fresh coffee and local bread.
Tour the Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, which showcases artifacts from ancient civilizations. Take a stroll to the nearby La Moneda Palace, where you can learn about Chile's political history. Savor lunch at a restaurant offering fusion dishes that blend traditional and modern flavors.
Enjoy an evening at a cultural performance, perhaps a folk dance show or a concert featuring local artists. Grab dinner at a top-rated restaurant in the Lastarria neighborhood, known for its artistic vibe. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll under the city lights, taking in the bustling atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Meal at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🧋Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short) | $5-8 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $50-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant local culture with warm hospitality
- Good value for food and accommodation
- Easy access to nature and nearby ruins
- Walkable city center with scenic viewpoints
- Altitude can cause mild discomfort for some
- Nightlife options are more laid-back than in larger cities
- Some services and Wi‑Fi can be slower in peripheral areas
- Less international airline connectivity compared to larger hubs
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ayuda" - Help
Places to Visit in Santiago
Visit one of these nice places.
A hilltop overlook offering framing of the main plaza, colonial churches, and surrounding terraced hills.
An old stone bridge with balustrades and adjacent craft stalls; good for golden-hour portraits and street photography.
Colorful, bustling street with murals, woven textiles, and storefronts—perfect for candid shots of daily life.
A vantage point above the town with distant mountain silhouettes and sunset lighting.
Food in Santiago
Santiago Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh fish cured in lime juice with onions, chili, and cilantro; best enjoyed at coastal-style eateries or modern cevicherías.
Must-Try!
Beef stir-fry with soy sauce, tomatoes, onions, and fried potatoes served over rice.
Creamy shredded chicken in a spicy cheese-based sauce, typically with potatoes and rice.
Potatoes with a spicy, creamy cheese sauce, often served with olives and boiled eggs.
Large Peruano corn (choclo) topped with fresh queso fresco and herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market offering produce, herbs, and ready-to-eat bites; look for anticuchos, tamales, and fresh juices.
Along the main thoroughfares, grab quick snacks like empanadas, grilled corn, and seasonal fruit cups.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common; close friends may greet with a light cheek kiss. Address people with courtesy and use queries like 'por favor' when asking for help.
Dress neatly when visiting religious sites; shoulders and legs should be covered in churches.
Show appreciation for local crafts and ask before photographing people or homes; offer respectful compliments on food and hospitality.
Polite conversations and small talk are common; avoid overly critical or confrontational topics in initial conversations.
Safety
Tipping in Santiago
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurants often include a 10% service charge; if not included, tipping 5–10% is appreciated. Small cafés and street vendors typically rely on cash tips or small change.
Credit and debit cards are commonly accepted in urban restaurants and hotels; small shops may prefer cash. Carry some soles in local currency and a card for larger purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with fresh mountain air; keep layers handy for cool mornings and warmer afternoons. Skies are often clear, making for excellent viewpoints.
Warmer temperatures with potential afternoon showers; bring lightweight rain gear, sun protection, and water. Evenings can be cool at higher elevations.
Comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds; great for city walks and cultural sites. Some days may be windy in higher areas.
Cool to cool-cold days with chilly mornings and nights; layering is essential. Clear days are common, with crisp air and bright skies.
Santiago at Night
Hiking in Santiago
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate hike offering sweeping views of the city and surrounding peaks; suitable for an early-morning hike.
A gentle trail through orchards and scrub brush with classic Andean vistas and photo opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Santiago by plane.
Major international gateway near Lima; connects to many Peruvian domestic destinations and international routes; convenient for onward travel to Santiago and other cities.
Cusco's main airport; serves regional and international flights and is a common transfer point for travelers heading to highland destinations.
Arequipa's airport; offers regional and some international connections, useful for combining southern Peru itineraries with a visit to the highlands.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of the population includes university students and young professionals driving a vibrant café and arts scene.
For many residents, family life centers around markets, schools, and craft neighborhoods.
Visitors and foreign residents contribute to a multicultural atmosphere with varied culinary offerings and language exchanges.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local games and informal matches are common on weekends and in plazas.
Rugged trails and surrounding hills provide opportunities for weekend runs with scenic views.
Nearby valleys and dirt roads attract riders seeking moderate to challenging routes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santiago.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many markets and kitchenettes offer vegetarian-friendly options like quinoa bowls, lentil soups, roasted vegetables, and potato dishes with huancaina sauce; ask to customize sauces or omit meat stock in stews.