Located in the Andes Mountains, Santiago is the capital city of Chile and the jewel of South American cities. Whether you want to enjoy the breathtaking views from St. Christopher’s Hill or take in the colonel architecture from a bygone era, you’ll never lack for something to do in Santiago.
St. Christopher’s Hill
Towering 3,000 miles above Metropolitan Park, St. Christopher’s Hill offers spectacular views of the city. To reach the top of St. Christopher’s Hill, there is a funicular at the north end of Pío Nono Street, on the eastern side of Metropolitan Park.
The Concha y Toro Winery
For wine lovers, the Concha y Toro Winery is a nice place to visit. Located just 15 miles from Santiago, Concha y Toro offers tours of their vineyards, as well as a wine tasting and delicious local dishes. In addition to Concha y Toro, there are several smaller wineries in the area you can tour.
National Museum of Fine Arts
While you are out enjoying all the national landmarks in Santiago, you may want to stop by the National Museum of Fine Arts. Here you’ll find a permanent collection of art dating back to the colonial period, as well as temporary exhibits. The design of the building is as beautiful as some of the art it houses. This is one stop you’ll not want to miss while visiting Santiago.
Central Market
If you’re in the mood for some seafood or other delicacies that may not be readily available at home, Central Market is the place to go. Here you’ll find stalls that sell everything from squid to vegetables and exotic spices. The market is set beneath a wrought iron ceiling and has been a part of the landscape since 1872.
Visit Palacio de La Moneda
This is the presidential palace of Chile. When visiting this historical landmark, you’ll find evidence of local culture all through the grounds from sculptures in the gardens to the changing of the guard. Although tours are free, it is requested that you schedule at least one week in advance of your visit.
Chilean National Zoo
The Chilean National Zoo may not be as spectacular as others zoos around the world, there are a good number of animals and it can certainly be an educational experience. If it’s a hot day you’ll enjoy the delicious ice cream available at a modest price.
The Fantasilandia Amusement Park
This is a smaller amusement park but it does feature a number of popular rides for adults and children. You’ll find wicked roller coasters, Xtreme Freefall, and the Wild Mouse among the adult rides. They also have an entire area devoted to children’s rides and amusements, along with a number of dining options.
The Aquarium
For a fun and educational adventure, visit the Aquarium in Santiago, located inside the O’Higgins Park. They offer educational programs, along with 300 marine exhibits to keep you busy for quite some time. The Aquarium is open seven days a week and will make special arrangements for large groups.