Santiago

Santiago is a big South American city surrounded by mountains and has been the capital of Chile since colonial times dating back to 1541.  It’s a beautiful city full of history, boasting world class museums, gorgeous parks, trendy restaurants and a thriving art scene.  The city has lots of neighborhood pockets with vibes all their own.  It reminded me a bit of Berlin.  There is something here for everyone, it really is a great metropolitan city.

What to See

 

Ride the Funicular Up to Cerro San Cristobal

Cerro San Cristobal is Santiago’s largest park.  You can ride the funicular, which is like a tram up the steep hillside.  It has stops at several locations, including the National Zoo, Plaza de Jeugos, and a botanical garden.  Up at the top is a giant statue of the Virgin of Immaculate Conception as well as a little church.  The top of the hillside really is the best part, totally worth going for the views alone. You really can’t beat the amazing views of Santiago and the mountains that border this beautiful city.

 

 

Mercado Central de Santiago

Mercado Central is a big fish market in the center of the city.  It’s a fun place to go and walk around and once you work up an appetite there are a lot of restaurants in the market to choose from.  Personally i’m not a big fan of fish, but I do enjoy shrimp and I got the best order of coconut shrimp i’ve ever had here.  Highly recommend!

 

Plaza de Armas

Plaza de Armas was the original main square in Santiago.  This was the city center for hundreds of years and still has a lot to see.  You can visit the excellent Chilean Natural History Museum inside of Palaciao de la Real Audiencia de Santiago, Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago and National Post Office.  This area is worth going to for the architecture alone.

 

 

 

Gran Torre Santiago

The Gran Torre Santiago is the tallest tower in Latin America.  At 64 stories it dominates Santiago’s skyline and you can see it from pretty much anywhere in town.  They offer tours to the top and from there you have excellent views of the city.  It’s definitely worth a trip here!