From September 2017 until April 2018, I lived and worked in Providencia, Santiago de Chile. When I was not at work or spending time with my host family, I explored the city, mostly with a camera in my hand. Santiago has so much to offer: from parks to restaurants and viewpoints. On clear days the Andes rise up majestically around the city and make for beautiful sunsets.
Here's my little travel guide for when you visit the city yourself:
things to see
take the gondola or cable car to the top of Cerro Cristobal - amazing views of the city especially on a clear day. Take the last gondola or cable car up and stay through sunset. Then walk down the hill, a paved road leading back down.
for some more good views walk up Cerro Santa Lucia
visit Pueblito Los Dominicos in Las Condes It is a little Chilean artesian marketplace with handmade products and food.
visit Sky Costanera - the observation deck of the Costanera Center in Providencia Get your money's worth by choosing a clear day or going to sunset.
relax and people-watch in Parque de los Reyes or Parque Bicentenario
stroll through Mercado Central de Santiago
go to Zona Bellavista at night and mingle with the locals
visit a wine bar in Lastarria, the artsy part of the city
go see La Moneda the seat of the president of Chile
Cafes
Café de la Candelaria
Jugos La Naranja Mecánica
Original Green Roasters Wonderland Café
The Coffee Club
COFI
Faustina
mokaccino
Restaurants
Ciudadano Restaurant (Chilean)
Mestizo (Chilean and Italian)
Azotea Matilde (International cuisine)
De la Ostia (Tapas)
Giratorio (views over Santiago, Chilean and Mediterranean food)
Flannery's Beerhouse (Irish Pub)
Streat Burger (American)
Pizzería Tiramisú (Italian) Quinoa (Vegetarian)
It's easiest to get around with the Metro. When coming to Santiago on a road trip through Chile or South America, I'd recommend taking about two full days to see the city, before continuing on your journey.
If you have any questions or feedback on some of the recommendations, don't hesitate to contact me through the comments or the contact form. I'd love to hear from you.
Safe travels!
Love, Lena
