Choose from 56 Fun Things to Do in Santiago
Maipo Valley
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Pomaire
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Metropolitan Cathedral (Catedral Metropolitana)
It was most recently rebuilt in the 1750s, with the help of Italian architect Joaquín Toesca, who designed the baroque-fringed neoclassical facade that set the standard for subsequent structures around the Plaza de Armas.
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The Catedral Metropolitana has dominated the west side of the Plaza de Armas for centuries, and is the official heart of the city, from which all other points around Santiago are measured. Driving in this busy neighborhood isn't recommended, but the metro's L5 green line drops you at Plaza de Armas, in front of the main facade of Santiago's Cathedral.
While the interior is worth a look any time, consider visiting for one of the cathedral's organ concerts, played on an ornate instrument the size of some homes. These are held several times a month; check the paper, or ask at the church, to find out about upcoming events.
National History Museum
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Matetic Vineyard
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Red House (Casa Colorada)
Though Santiago's historical district boast many architecturally outstanding buildings, most were built or refurbished in the early 1900s, well after the Spanish Colonial period. The Red House - or Casa Colorada - is a fine exception.
It's no mystery why this squat stone structure has survived Santiago's tectonic history of earthquakes (and the gas-lamp fires that inevitably followed) intact. Originally completed in 1779 as the home of "Count of the Conquest" Don Mateo de Toro y Zambrano, it has served as a salon for Chile's politicians and VIPs for centuries.
Today, the Casa's thick-walled corridors and sturdy rooms are home to the Museo de Santiago, a solid museum featuring dioramas about key moments in the Chilean history.
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The Red House is located in the heart of of the Santiago historic district, half a block east of the Plaza de Armas. The area is not the easiest to navigate in a car, but is well served by the metro. The closest stop is the Plaza de Armas station, on the L5 Green Line.
If you don't mind crowds of happy families, visit on Sunday, when admission is free.
National Library (Biblioteca Nacional)
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Parque Forestal
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Parque Arauco
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Plaza de Armas
- Plaza de Armas is a must for all first-time visitors to Santiago.
- There are a number of cafés and restaurants around the square, but for budget options, try the surrounding streets.
- As in all large cities, keep an eye on your belongings—pickpockets are common around the square.
- The Plaza de Armas hosts various festivals, events, and markets throughout the year, including Santiago’s Independence Day celebrations.
- Santiago’s main tourist office is located at the north end of the square.
Lastarria
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Museum of Memory and Human Rights
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Plaza de la Constitucion
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Mercado Central (Central Market)
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Loma Larga Vineyards & Winery
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Palacio de Bellas Artes
Constructed in 1910, at the height of Latin America's frilly neoclassical-meets-art nouveau architectural wave, the graceful Palacio de Bellas Artes still strikes an imposing figure amidst modern Santiago's cold skyscrapers. Its ornate stone facade, which would do any cathedral proud, and permanent artistic merit make it the perfect home for the National Museum of Fine Arts.
The permanent collection, displayed in the Palacio's soaring chambers, begins with the Spanish Colonial era and traces Chile's cultural development through the styles of its artistic masters. Temporary exhibitions come from around Chile and the world.
The MAC (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo), Santiago's contemporary art museum, is also here. While it University of Chile-operated institution may lack the gravitas of the neighboring Fine Arts Museum, exhibits can be a lot more fun.
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The Palacio de Bellas Artes is located on the northern edge of the historic district, five blocks from the Plaza de Armas, close to the river. This busy neighborhood isn't the easiest to navigate with a car, but there are several metro stops nearby. The L5 green line serves the Bellas Artes stop, right in front of the building.
The Palacio's entry fee is included as part of a Turistik, which gives you a day's access to double-decker buses that circuit past most of Santiago's attractions. Guided Spanish-language tours of the museum can be arranged for groups with one week advanced notice.
La Vega Central
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Mapocho Station
Originally constructed between 1905 and 1912, the Mapocho Station was once the heart of Chile's massive, efficient railway system. The beautiful building was all but abandoned after the Valparaiso train shuddered to a stop in 1987, but was restored to its former elegance, complete with a copper roof, in the 1990s.
Today the Mapocho Station is the country's most important cultural center, its spacious interior hosting all sorts of art exhibits, performances, and other cultural activities throughout the year. From highbrow (symphonies, operas) to low (animatronic dinosaurs), there's something for everyone at this iconic Santiago institution.
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The Mapocho Station lies at the heart of what was once quite an elegant neighborhood, centered on Iglesia Santo Domingo. Architecture and history buffs will enjoy wandering around, and perhaps visiting Santiago's Central Market. The scene is now a tad scruffy, but the shady park filled with buskers and artisan vendors is a fine place to relax.
While this is a relatively good driving neighborhood, the easiest access is by metro; take the yellow L2 line to the Puente Cal y Canto station. The Spanish-language website has information on upcoming events and exhibitions; click "Centro Cultural" on the home page, then "Cartelera" for an illustrated schedule.