Things To Do
in Santiago
Santiago is a charming district located in the heart of Lima, Peru. It is known for its historic colonial architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and bustling markets. Santiago is a popular destination for tourists seeking to explore traditional Peruvian cuisine and handicrafts.
The district offers a blend of modern amenities and traditional charm, making it a must-visit for anyone traveling to Lima.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting Plaza de Armas, the heart of Santiago. Enjoy the stunning architecture of the Cathedral and the Central Post Office.
Take a stroll through the vibrant streets of Bellavista, known for its colorful murals and bohemian vibe. Visit La Chascona, the home of Pablo Neruda, to learn more about Chilean culture.
Dine in one of the many local restaurants offering traditional Chilean cuisine. Try the famous pastellera de choclo while enjoying live music.
Head to Parque Metropolitano and hike up Cerro San Cristóbal for breathtaking views of Santiago. Alternatively, take the funicular for a more leisurely ascent.
Explore the park’s botanical gardens and the statue of the Virgin Mary atop the hill. Relax and enjoy a picnic while soaking in the panoramic scenery.
Return to the city for an evening stroll along the Mapocho River. Dine at a riverside restaurant, enjoying the sunset views.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Beautiful natural landscapes surrounding the city.
- Affordable cost of living compared to other South American capitals.
- Vibrant gastronomy scene with local culinary delights.
- Growing economy with diverse job opportunities.
- Traffic congestion can be a significant issue.
- Air pollution levels are relatively high.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Safety concerns in certain neighborhoods.
- Earthquake risk due to geographical location.
Best Activities in Santiago
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the breathtaking trails of the Andes mountains surrounding Santiago. Various difficulty levels are available, offering stunning views of the landscape.
This natural park offers numerous hiking trails, picnic areas, and the chance to see diverse flora and fauna while enjoying the scenic views.
Rent a bike and cycle through one of Santiago's largest parks, featuring beautiful gardens, a lake, and ample space for outdoor activities.
During the winter months, take a day trip to Valle Nevado for skiing or snowboarding, just a short drive from Santiago.
Explore the nearby wine region of Maipo Valley, where you can tour vineyards and enjoy tastings of some of Chile’s finest wines.
For the adventurous, try rock climbing at Cerro San Cristóbal, where you can also enjoy panoramic views of the city once you reach the top.
Take a leisurely walk along the Río Mapocho and enjoy bird watching. This area is home to various species of birds, making it a peaceful outdoor activity.
Tours
Uncover the best of Santiago with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Santiago
Visit one of these nice places.
A hill offering panoramic views of Santiago and the Andes mountains, ideal for sunrise and sunset photography.
A large urban park with various viewpoints that provide beautiful landscapes of the city and surrounding nature.
The tallest building in South America with an observation deck that provides stunning views of the entire city from above.
A vibrant neighborhood filled with colorful street art, perfect for capturing the local culture and creative spirit.
A scenic viewpoint offering unique perspectives of the city landscape and accessible via an easy hike.
A bustling pedestrian street in downtown Santiago, great for street photography and capturing the city's lively atmosphere.
A less-frequented hill that provides a quiet spot for beautiful city views, especially during golden hour.
A riverside park with walking paths and lookout points for capturing both natural scenery and urban views.
Food in Santiago
Santiago Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A refreshing dish of raw fish marinated in citrus juices and mixed with onions, chili peppers, and cilantro. The best place to try ceviche is at the local seafood restaurants along the coast, such as Punta Azul or La Mar Cebichería.
Must-Try!
A stir-fry dish featuring marinated strips of beef, onions, tomatoes, and other spices, served with rice. La Picantería and Panchita are popular spots to savor this flavorful dish.
Grilled skewers of marinated meat, typically made from beef heart, accompanied by boiled potatoes and aji sauce. Head to Anticucheria El Tio Mario or Panchita for an authentic taste.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Santiago better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore Mercado Central to discover a plethora of street food stalls offering local favorites such as empanadas, tamales, and picarones. Don't miss the opportunity to sample the delicious anticuchos sold by vendors in and around the market.
This bustling market is a paradise for food enthusiasts, offering a wide array of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and street food options. Sample the freshly squeezed fruit juices or indulge in a hearty plate of arroz con pollo from one of the vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Santiago, it is customary to greet people with a handshake or a light kiss on the cheek, especially among friends. Always make eye contact and smile when greeting to convey warmth and respect.
When dining, wait for the host to begin the meal before you start eating. It is polite to keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) and to use utensils for most eatables. Additionally, thanking the host after the meal is a good practice.
While speaking, maintain a comfortable level of personal space and avoid overly loud voices which may be seen as aggressive. It is also important to be aware of body language; for example, crossing arms may be perceived as defensive.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Santiago with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Santiago
Ensure a smooth experience
In Santiago, Peru, tipping is customary but not mandatory. It is usually expected in restaurants, cafes, and bars, with a general guideline of 10% of the total bill. Some establishments may include a service charge, so it's advisable to check the bill before tipping. In taxis, rounding up the fare is common, though not obligatory.
Payment methods in Santiago commonly include cash and credit/debit cards. Major credit cards are widely accepted in restaurants, shops, and hotels. However, smaller vendors may only accept cash. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller transactions and to be aware of the currency exchange rates when using foreign cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Santiago.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Summer is hot and can be quite humid, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). This is a popular time for tourists, and you can expect vibrant festivals and outdoor activities, although occasional rain showers can occur.
Autumn sees mild temperatures, typically between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). It's a great time to visit as the weather is usually dry and pleasant, perfect for trekking and enjoying local culture.
Winter brings cooler temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). The days are usually sunny, but nights can be quite cold. Winter is low tourist season, so expect fewer crowds and potential for clearer views of the surrounding landscapes.
Spring offers mild weather with temperatures from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This is an ideal time for hiking and visiting local attractions, as the landscape is often lush and blooming, and the weather is generally stable and dry.
Santiago at Night
Hiking in Santiago
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located in the Cordillera Blanca, this national park offers stunning views of glaciers, rivers, and diverse ecosystems. It's ideal for trekking and climbing.
A popular hiking spot close to the city, offering panoramic views of Santiago and the surrounding Andes mountains. The trail is accessible and suitable for all levels.
This urban park features numerous trails that wind through lush greenery and provide beautiful vistas of the city. It's a great place for a casual hike.
Famous for its biodiversity, this hike offers a more challenging terrain and rewards hikers with breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys.
Located just outside Santiago, this mountain offers several trails that lead through forests and rocky paths, catering to various skill levels.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Santiago through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Santiago by plane.
Located in Lima, about 280 kilometers northwest of Santiago, Peru, this is the busiest airport in the country.
Situated in San José, Costa Rica, approximately 1,200 kilometers northwest of Santiago, this airport serves as a major hub for Central America.
Located in Buenos Aires, Argentina, about 1,300 kilometers southeast of Santiago, it is the primary international airport serving the Argentine capital.
Located in Santiago, Chile, it is the main airport in the capital city, offering flights to various international destinations.
Situated in Bogotá, Colombia, about 2,900 kilometers north of Santiago, it is one of the largest airports in South America.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Santiago, constituting a blend of Indigenous and European ancestry.
Includes various ethnic groups with deep historical roots in the region, such as the Quechua and Aymara.
A significant group primarily of Spanish descent, along with other European ancestries including Italian, German, and British.
A minority group with African ancestry, contributing to the cultural diversity of the city.
Includes communities of Chinese and Japanese descent, adding to the multicultural fabric of Santiago.
The Soul of Santiago
Discover the essence of Santiago through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Santiago, Peru, with a rich history and passionate fan base. Local clubs and national teams draw large crowds during matches.
Basketball has gained popularity in Santiago, with many schools and recreational leagues promoting the sport. It has a growing following among the youth.
Volleyball is widely played in schools and recreational centers, especially among women. It is a common sport during physical education classes.
Cycling is popular as both a competitive and recreational activity in Santiago. The city supports cycling events and has dedicated bike paths.
Athletics, including track and field events, is promoted in schools and universities, with many local events held throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santiago.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Peruvian cuisine traditionally features a lot of meat and seafood, many restaurants in Santiago now offer vegetarian and vegan options, especially in tourist-friendly areas. Look for eateries such as Veggie Pizza and Loving Hut, which cater to vegetarian and vegan diners.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free alternatives in various restaurants and cafes across Santiago. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly to the staff, and many places will be able to accommodate your requirements.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Santiago with these cultural adventures.
