Yes, Santiago is absolutely worth visiting. As Chile’s capital city, it offers a unique experience where you can ski in the Andes in the morning and enjoy a world-class vineyard tour in the afternoon. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff or an outdoor adventurer, there are plenty of things to do in Santiago, Chile.
The diverse culture and beautiful scenery have secured this city a place on our list of the top 20 underrated travel destinations. If you’re considering whether Santiago should be on your Chile vacation travel itinerary, a visit to this city is sure to set the tone for an amazing vacation.
AAA Travel experts can help you plan your trip and you can find many points of interest for Santiago, Chile, on Trip Canvas. Using the right resources, you can plan a successful and unforgettable trip.
Top Reasons to Visit Santiago
Santiago is a city full of opportunities for travelers to wine, dine and make merry. When deciding whether Santiago, Chile, is worth visiting, consider the city’s unique geographic location. Visiting Santiago, you’ll have ample places to go indoors and out. Whether you’re visiting the nearby Andes Mountains or kicking back with fellow travelers in restaurants and coffee shops, you’re bound to make memories that you’ll treasure forever.
Here are some of the top reasons to make sure your South American vacation includes Santiago, Chile:
1. View the Stars at the Observatory
Do you love watching the stars? Chile’s skies are famously clear and the Andes mountain range helps protect the sky from light pollution. While the Atacama Desert is world-renowned for astronomy, you don’t have to travel far from the capital to see the cosmos.
Just half an hour from Santiago, a privately owned and operated observatory is located in the Andes Mountains.
2. Enjoy the Good Life With a Winery Tour
Chile is known for its thriving wine industry and the Maipo Valley, located right on the edge of the city, is world-famous for its Cabernet Sauvignon. The area around Santiago is home to several beautiful wineries, including several family-owned vineyards.
Consider visiting Concha y Toro Winery for their world-renowned Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon, Santa Rita Winery for full-bodied Chilean wines and Undurraga Winery for internationally recognized full-bodied reds. On these tours, visitors can learn about the wine-making process, taste wine with plates of olives and nuts and enjoy authentic Chilean cuisine.
3. Have Fun While Horseback Riding in the Andes
Take a step away from the city to enjoy a horseback riding tour. During tours, knowledgeable guides take travelers to see some of the wonders of the Santiago Valley and the Chilean Pacific coast.
Horseback tours differ from one company to the next. For example, the Zapallar and Papudo Tour includes a boat ride to observe endangered Humboldt penguins, followed by a scenic horseback ride on the coast.
4. Take a Private Tour for a Customized Experience
Santiago is a city full of striking beauty, interesting architecture and (of course) stories you won’t want to miss. To truly understand why Santiago is worth visiting, a guided tour can provide the historical context of Chile’s transition to democracy.
There are many private tours available, including food tours, culture and history tours, walking tours and San Cristóbal Hill cable car tours.
5. Visit Historic Neighborhoods
Strolling through Santiago’s historic neighborhoods like Bellavista, Lastarria and Barrio Italia, you’ll have a chance to admire neoclassical homes and businesses while visiting busy, vibrant markets.
These neighborhoods are the true heart of Santiago, where travelers can find bookstores, restaurants and museums. Bellavista is also known for its bohemian flair and La Chascona, the former home of poet Pablo Neruda.
6. Day Trip to Viña del Mar and Valparaíso
Not far from Santiago is a city called Viña del Mar or “Garden City,” where visitors can enjoy outdoor sports and excellent cuisine. Just next door is the UNESCO World Heritage site of Valparaíso, famous for its steep funiculars and bright, hilltop houses. There are many tours leaving from Santiago, making it a perfect day trip if you’re hoping to get out of the city and see the Pacific coast.
7. Soak Up Culture At Museums
As the capital of Chile, Santiago is home to many museums that showcase the nation’s rich heritage and history. Some noteworthy museums to see when you visit Santiago include:
- Museum of Memory and Human Rights: This museum draws attention to the human rights violations committed by the Chilean state between 1973 and 1990. It is a must-visit for those seeking to understand the resilience of the Chilean people.
- Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino: The Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art features an impressive collection of artifacts from ancient Central and South America. People widely regard this as one of the best museums in Latin America.
- Parque de Las Esculturas: Sculpture Park Museum is a unique open-air museum located in Providencia along the Mapocho River. It features over 30 large-scale sculptures by renowned Chilean artists, making it the perfect spot for a scenic walk that blends art with nature.
- Museo Nacional de Historia Natural: The National Museum of Natural History is located in the beautiful Quinta Normal Park and is one of the oldest museums in South America. It’s a fantastic stop for families to learn about Chile’s diverse biological and anthropological history, including the famous Chinchorro mummies.
- Museo Interactivo Mirador: Visit the Mirador Interactive Museum for a hands-on experience with interactive exhibits that make complex concepts fun and engaging. This science and technology museum is a favorite for visitors of all ages, offering a modern contrast to the city’s historic sites.
How to Get Around Santiago
Getting around Santiago is easy when you know what to do. The best options include the Metro, taxis, rideshares and on foot.
- The Metro: An efficient way to travel between neighborhoods. You can purchase a rechargeable Bip! card at any station. (Note: Cash is not accepted on the Metro or city buses (micros).)
- Walking: The historic portion of the city is laid out on a grid, making exploring on foot relatively easy and rewarding.
- Rideshare and Taxis: For comfort during rush hour, use a rideshare app or hail a yellow-top taxi.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Santiago?
Because of its Mediterranean climate, Santiago is a true year-round destination, offering everything from snow sports to sun-drenched wine harvests.
However, many travelers find that the shoulder seasons — the transitional periods between the peak summer heat and the winter chill — provide the most comfortable weather for exploring the city’s historic streets on foot.
During these months, you can enjoy a perfect balance of mild temperatures, lower hotel rates and significantly smaller crowds at popular landmarks like San Cristóbal Hill. Explore the reasons to visit Santiago for different seasons below:
- Spring (September-November): Mild weather and blooming jacaranda trees. Best for city walking.
- Summer (December-February): Hot and dry; perfect for visiting nearby coastal cities.
- Autumn (March-May): Vibrant fall colors in vineyards and pleasant, cooler temperatures.
- Winter (June-August): The best time for skiing in the nearby Andes resorts.
Note: Because Chile is in the Southern Hemisphere, its seasons are opposite those in the U.S.
FAQs About Santiago
Where is Santiago located?
Santiago is located in the center of the Santiago Basin, a valley in central Chile. The city's unique geography is defined by three distinct borders:
- The Andes Mountains to the east (separating Chile and Argentina)
- The Chilean Coastal Range to the west
- The Mapocho River, which flows through the heart of the city
Is Santiago safe?
Santiago is considered one of the safest capital cities in Latin America. However, like any big city, use caution when traveling internationally. Keep your valuables out of sight, avoid wearing flashy jewelry and stay in well-lit areas at night.
What is Santiago known for?
Santiago is known for its stunning Andean backdrop, great food, nearby wineries and the Costanera Center (the tallest building in South America). It offers a lively city experience with plenty of restaurants, bars, art galleries and museums to explore.
Do I need a visa to visit Chile?
According to the U.S. Department of State, if you’re a U.S. citizen traveling to Santiago for tourism, you will not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. You must have a valid passport.
Is Santiago expensive?
Compared to other Latin American countries, Chile has a higher cost of living, but it remains more affordable than most major U.S. or European cities. Hotel and restaurant prices are reasonable and public transportation is very affordable.
What’s better, Santiago or Buenos Aires?
The choice between the two depends on your interests: Santiago is better for nature and adventure, while Buenos Aires is better for nightlife and European-style architecture. If you prefer mountain views and world-class seafood, Santiago is the winner; if you want Old World charm and theater, choose Buenos Aires.
Ready to Visit Santiago with AAA?
If you’re convinced that Santiago is the best place to take your next trip, it’s time to start planning. AAA Travel is here to help you plan your itinerary, pick the best hotel and use your AAA membership to access exclusive discounts. Contact AAA Travel to start your Chilean adventure today.