Santiago
Nestled between the Andes and the Pacific, Santiago offers a dynamic mix of colonial history, contemporary culture, and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the historic Plaza de Armas, take in sweeping city views from San Cristóbal Hill, or discover Chilean art in the Bellas Artes district. The city’s thriving food scene serves everything from empanadas to world-class wines from nearby valleys. With the mountains as its backdrop and a vibrant arts scene, Santiago is the perfect gateway to Chile’s diverse landscapes.
Airport
Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) – Located about 15 km from the city center, this airport is Chile’s main international hub, connecting travelers to the rest of South America and beyond.
Train Station
Estación Central (Central Station) – This historic railway station is Santiago’s main terminal, providing regional and long-distance train connections, primarily southward to cities like Chillán.
Weather
The best time to visit Santiago is from December to March, during the Southern Hemisphere’s summer. The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for hiking in the nearby Andes or exploring vineyards. Autumn (April and May) is also a lovely time to visit, offering cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. The winter months (June to August) can be cold, especially in the mountains, but it's a great time for skiing or snowboarding in nearby resorts.
Known For
Famous for its proximity to the Andes mountains, vibrant cultural scene, and world-renowned wine regions.
Neighbourhoods
Santiago is a city of contrasts, with neighborhoods that blend modern development with historic charm. Bellavista is a bohemian district known for its vibrant nightlife, street art, and creative energy. Lastarria is a cultural hotspot with museums, theaters, and charming cafes. Providencia is a commercial and residential area with tree-lined streets, upscale dining, and shopping. Vitacura is an exclusive neighborhood, famous for its high-end boutiques, art galleries, and sophisticated dining experiences, offering a luxurious escape in the heart of the city.
01.
Bellavista – A bohemian neighborhood with vibrant street art, quirky shops, and a lively nightlife scene. Bellavista is ideal for those seeking Santiago’s artistic and cultural vibe.
02.
Lastarria – A historic district filled with museums, galleries, and charming cafes. Lastarria offers a more refined and cultural experience, perfect for visitors looking to dive into Santiago’s creative side.
03.
Providencia – A commercial and residential area with tree-lined streets, upscale shopping, and fine dining. Providencia offers a more sophisticated vibe while still being close to central Santiago’s attractions.
04.
Vitacura – An upscale neighborhood known for its luxury shopping, fine dining, and high-end real estate. Vitacura is perfect for those looking to experience Santiago’s modern, affluent side.
Hotel Guide
Santiago offers a range of accommodation options, catering to all types of travelers. Budget travelers can find affordable hostels and guesthouses in neighborhoods like Bellavista and Lastarria, providing a laid-back atmosphere and easy access to the city’s vibrant cultural scene. Mid-range hotels are found in Providencia and Vitacura, offering stylish rooms and modern amenities. For luxury accommodations, Santiago features upscale hotels like The Singular Santiago, which offers sophisticated rooms, fine dining, and a prime location near cultural attractions and the Andes Mountains.
01.
Hostal Forestal – ★★★
A budget-friendly hostel in Lastarria, offering dorms and private rooms with a great social atmosphere.
La Casa Roja – ★★★
A historic mansion-turned-hostel in Barrio Brasil, featuring a pool, affordable rooms, and a lively vibe.
Hotel París Londres – ★★★
A budget boutique hotel in a charming old building, offering simple, comfortable rooms in the city center.
Budget Hotel Options
02.
The Singular Santiago – ★★★★
A boutique hotel offering luxury and modern amenities in the Lastarria district, with a rooftop bar and views of the Andes Mountains.
Hotel Cumbres Lastarria – ★★★★
A sophisticated hotel in the Lastarria neighborhood, offering stylish rooms, a rooftop pool, and easy access to Santiago’s cultural attractions.
Hotel Plaza San Francisco – ★★★★
A luxury hotel located in the city center, offering comfortable rooms, excellent dining options, and a great location for exploring Santiago.
Mid-Range Hotel Options
03.
The Singular Santiago – ★★★★★
A sophisticated boutique hotel offering contemporary design, luxury rooms, and stunning views of the Andes Mountains, located in the Lastarria district.
Hotel Cumbres Lastarria – ★★★★★
A modern luxury hotel featuring stylish rooms, a rooftop pool, and excellent dining options, located near Santiago’s cultural hotspots and historic landmarks.
W Santiago – ★★★★★
A trendy and upscale hotel offering modern rooms, a vibrant atmosphere, a rooftop pool, and a central location near the city’s entertainment district.
High-End Hotel Options
Sights and Activities
Santiago, Chile’s vibrant capital, offers a blend of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and modern architecture. Budget activities include strolling through the historic Plaza de Armas, visiting the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, or enjoying the views from San Cristobal Hill. Mid-range options include exploring the bohemian neighborhood of Bellavista or visiting the renowned Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos. For luxury, enjoy a private wine tour through the nearby Casablanca Valley, dine at top restaurants like Boragó, or stay at the elegant Singular Santiago for a sophisticated experience.
Cerro San Cristóbal
Take a free hike up this hill for panoramic views of Santiago and the Andes mountains, or visit the park at the base for a relaxed day out.
La Moneda Palace (Exterior)
Admire the historic La Moneda Palace from the outside and enjoy the changing of the guard ceremony on select days.
Plaza de Armas
Walk through the main square in the heart of Santiago, surrounded by colonial-era buildings, and soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
Barrio Bellavista
Explore this bohemian neighborhood with street art, colorful houses, and a lively culture, perfect for an affordable, cultural experience.
Budget Friendly Activities
Cerro San Cristóbal Funicular
Take the funicular to the top of San Cristóbal Hill for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Andes, with a small fee for the ride.
Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos
Learn about Chile’s history, particularly the human rights struggles during the Pinochet
dictatorship, in this moving museum with a modest entrance fee.
Cerro Santa Lucía
Climb this hilltop park for stunning views of Santiago’s skyline and the Andes, along with beautiful gardens and a historical fort.
Barrio Lastarria
Wander through this bohemian neighborhood filled with galleries, theaters, and lively cafes, where you can enjoy art, culture, and good food on a budget.
Mid-Range Activities
Private Tour of Valparaiso and Casablanca Valley
Enjoy a luxurious private tour of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Valparaiso and the renowned Casablanca Valley for wine tasting. Prices from AUD $400.
Private Wine Tasting in the Maipo Valley
Explore the prestigious wineries in Maipo Valley with a private tour and wine tasting session. Prices from AUD $250.
Private Helicopter Tour of Santiago and Andes
Soar above Santiago and the Andes Mountains with a private helicopter ride for panoramic views of this stunning region. Prices from AUD $600.
Hi-End Activities
Please Note - All prices listed above are approximate and must be checked prior to quoting clients
Resources
Visa Requirements
No visa required for stays up to 90 days
*Note - VISA regulations change regularly. Always check official websites for the most up to date information.
Official Tourism Website
For more information explore this cities official tourism website
01
Language
Spanish
02
Currency
Chilean Peso (CLP)
03
Population
7 million (city proper)
04
Time Difference from Melb (AEDT)
- -14 hours
Have a question?
If you need any help putting together an itinerary, finding hotels or selecting a wholesaler. Reach out to the head office team that can answer all your questions.