Santiago de Chile

A Local’s Guide for Travelers

by Sami Vicens

Welcome to Santiago! This vibrant, diverse, and ever-active city has been my home for 31 years. Having lived here for so long and never known another home (except for a few months in the US), I sometimes forget what makes it so special. Everything that defines Santiago is so deeply rooted in me that I might overlook things that others find unique or surprising. That’s why I love meeting travelers—through their eyes and experiences, I get to rediscover and fall in love all over again with what this capital has to offer: adventure, culture, history, and a diverse urban life at the foot of the breathtaking Cordillera de los Andes.

I’m Samanta, but you can call me Sami. I love traveling, and photography is my passion—sometimes a hobby, sometimes my profession. I’m obsessed with beautiful and unique spaces, which is why I’m always on the lookout for cafés, bars, restaurants, and other inspiring spots to sit and soak in the atmosphere. Over the past year, I’ve also had the chance to guide a few travelers from different parts of the world through the streets of Santiago, helping them discover the city’s must-sees while sharing my local perspective.

In this guide, I want to share what I believe you need to know about this city—from its most iconic attractions and fascinating neighborhoods to adventures and activities both in and around Santiago, culinary experiences, and can’t-miss events for the month of April.

In this Article:

Daylight Savings Alert:

Saturday, April 5th marks the end of daylight savings in Chile. Clocks fall back one hour at midnight so you’ll have an extra hour of sleep before our flight to Puerto Natales on the morning of April 6.

Must-Visit Neighborhoods

Lastarria:

A small, bohemian, and central neighborhood with historic architecture, bookstores, museums, cafés, and street art displays. As you wander its streets, you'll also find an old church, an important cultural center, and artisan craft stalls. Grab a great coffee at Café Triciclo, enjoy a delicious ice cream at Emporio La Rosa, taste the best wines at Bocanáriz, and for lunch or dinner, visit Chipe Libre or Le Bistrot Viet.

Barrio Italia:

A peaceful neighborhood filled with shops and workshops run by Chilean entrepreneurs and artists, also offering a wide variety of dining and nightlife options. It tends to get quite busy around lunchtime on weekends. Stroll along Italia and Condell streets between Bilbao and Caupolicán, where most of the local spots are concentrated. Stop for a coffee at Café de la Candelaria, and if you're in the mood for a great selection of gin and cocktails, head to Rucabar.

Bellavista:

This neighborhood probably appears in every Santiago travel guide. Its old colorful streets are packed with restaurants, bars, and an abundance of street art and graffiti. One of its highlights is Patio Bellavista, a lively complex of restaurants with lovely outdoor terraces, where you can also find souvenirs and local products.

That said, I’ll be honest—over the past few years, it’s not quite what it used to be, and many locals tend to avoid it at night for safety reasons. However, visiting during the day is completely fine. Here, you’ll find La Chascona, the house of Chile’s famous poet Pablo Neruda, as well as the entrance to the amazing Parque Metropolitano and Santiago’s Cable Cars. 

If you plan to visit Bellavista at night, I highly recommend taking an Uber to and from your destination, as it’s not the safest area for walking after dark.

Vitacura:

One of the most exclusive and modern areas of Santiago, offering top-tier dining options and quiet streets with green spaces, located near parks like Parque Bicentenario. 

Stroll along Alonso de Córdova Street or visit Mall Casacostanera for high-end shopping, and check out Centro Gastronómico BordeRío, home to a variety of excellent restaurants that are always a great choice. For an incredible Peruvian-fusion experience, go to Tanaka, and if you’re looking for a truly one-of-a-kind gastronomic experience, Boragó is the place to go.

Providencia:

One of the most important areas in Santiago, the Providencia neighborhood has a strategic location, acting as the link between the historic center and the more modern areas of the city. It’s a dynamic area where you can really feel the local urban life. The streets are filled with cafés, bars, and restaurants, though I recommend checking reviews before choosing a place to eat. 

If you’re interested in going up the tallest building in Latin America, you can get tickets for Sky Costanera, where you'll have great views of the entire city. Just a heads-up, though—you’ll likely see quite a bit of pollution on most days. Check out Galería Drugstore, a gallery of small local shops, and for a walk through a green area with city views and fun sculptures, I recommend visiting Parque de las Esculturas.

Some food recommendations: eat great burgers at La Burguesía, go to Pikada for the traditional empanadas, and for a healthy brunch or lunch, try Café Calderón or Tea Connection. If you’re in the mood for live music, theater, or comedy, take a look at the schedule at Teatro Nescafé and Teatro Oriente.

Important note: Some of the neighborhoods I previously mentioned are also part of the Providencia area. What I’m recommending in this section refers to Providencia and Nueva Providencia streets, between Avenida Tobalaba and Manuel Montt. Check the map below.

Food & Drinks

Santiago boasts an incredible culinary scene, where flavors range from traditional to modern—and even the delightfully unexpected. With diverse menus and inviting atmospheres, the city’s restaurants cater to every taste, making every meal an experience worth savoring.

To kick things off, here’s a short list of must-try spots—some of the most recommended restaurants in the city:

Now, I can’t help but include my personal favorites—places that have surprised me in recent years, making me feel at home, whether for their atmosphere, their vegetarian-friendly menus, or their unique flavors.

Restaurants

Casa Sanz: A top-tier vegan restaurant where you won’t miss meat at all.

Verde Sazón: Delicious pizzas, tasty vegetarian dishes, and great cocktails on a cozy terrace.

Golfo di Napoli: Amazing gnocchis in a restaurant with many years of tradition, offering generous portions big enough to share (honestly, you’ll probably have to take leftovers if you order one dish for yourself).

Tio Tomate: Well-made pizzas and salads in a peaceful atmosphere.

El Huerto: A flavorful vegetarian restaurant with a great ambiance and location.

Mariachi Loco: Authentic Mexican food and drinks.

Chicken Love You: A more casual concept, but one of the best burgers I’ve had in Santiago. The owner traveled the world tasting burgers and sandwiches, bringing the best from each place. You can choose either chicken or tofu for your sandwich.

Niu Sushi: A classic, reliable option to try "Chilean-style" sushi (with avocado and cream cheese).

Bars

Bar Valdivia: One of my favorite spots in Santiago! It has a unique, cozy atmosphere with lots of plants, and a varied menu with options for all tastes. I recommend the Papas Bravas and the Chocolate Volcano. They have a pool table and other games you can request at the counter. For drinks, their Margaritas are some of the best in Santiago. If you can, go during the week and not too late, as it tends to get crowded. It's best to make a reservation if possible.

Kross Bar Orrego Luco: A great place to try amazing and varied beers, paired with some very tasty food. Ask the waiters for their local beer suggestions!

Bar el Bajo: A unique spot in the Lastarria neighborhood, inside a cultural center but surrounded by greenery. They sometimes have live music and shows, but in general, the terrace is very nice and calm. Great signature cocktails, too!

Cafés

Lover Cafetería: It opened just a few months ago and has already taken all of Santiago by storm. The owner has won international pastry competitions, and let's just say, it shows. If you want to treat both your taste buds and your eyes to something sweet, this is the place.

Casa Juliet: An old, beautifully decorated house with various cozy spaces where you can enjoy a delicious brunch or lunch.

Pantiaguina: A bakery in a quiet neighborhood offering a wide variety of sourdough breads, paired with great coffee and desserts.

Starbucks Reserve: One of my top choices when looking for a place to work, read a book, or have a meeting. It’s the most beautiful Starbucks in Santiago, and it offers a wider selection of filtered coffees and food compared to the other stores in the city.

Markets

MUT: One of the newest spaces in the city and one of my favorites. MUT stands for Mercado Urbano Tobalaba, an urban market that blends local commerce, international cuisine, and public spaces with a sustainable and community-focused approach. The market combines established brands with emerging businesses, including stores for clothing, cosmetics, books, accessories, and more. On the -2 floor, you'll find Japanese, Turkish, Indian, Swiss, Italian food, and more. Try to find a table before buying your food, as it tends to get crowded, especially around lunchtime. I really encourage you to visit MUT! 

You can find all about their workshops and activities here.

Nightlife

Here's a list of areas where you'll find a lot of bars and clubs, in case you're in the mood to party with locals and explore Santiago’s nightlife scene.

Tip for sports fans: If you're a soccer fan and there's a match you don't want to miss, I recommend going to California Cantina or Locos por el Deporte.

Traditional foods you should try

Pastel de Choclo: A corn casserole with meat.

Empanadas: Try the empanadas de pino (with meat) or empanadas de queso (with cheese). There are baked options (my preference) and fried ones.

Completo: The Chilean hot dog, with avocado, tomato, and mayonnaise.

Mote con Huesillo: A typical sweet dessert/drink made with wheat and cooked peach.

Seafood: A must-try in Chile!

Cultural & Artistic Experiences

Centro Cultural La Moneda:

Located beneath Chile’s presidential palace, this space is dedicated to art and culture. The exhibitions vary and range from visual art to social and political exhibits. It's one of the country's most iconic cultural spaces. You can also visit La Moneda, a highly visited tourist site due to its historical significance, particularly its connection to the dictatorship era and the 1973 coup. Current exhibitions here:https://www.cclm.cl/en/exhibitions/

Museo Bellas Artes:

One of the oldest and most renowned museums in Chile, where you’ll find exhibits of Chilean and international art, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and more. Check out their current exhibitions here, most of which are free: https://www.mnba.gob.cl/. The museum is small, so you can definitely add a short visit to your itinerary if you’re going to be in the area.

Museo de La Memoria:

A museum dedicated to commemorating the victims of human rights violations that occurred during the military dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet (1973–1990). It was inaugurated in 2010 as part of Chile’s efforts to acknowledge its past and promote human rights. A very interesting and profound experience if you're interested in these topics. Learn more here: https://mmdh.cl/

Centro Cultural Gabriela Mistral (GAM):

A hub for artistic activities, featuring a diverse program that includes theater, dance, music, exhibitions, and workshops. This modern building in the heart of Santiago is accessible and often a meeting point, where you can sometimes watch dancers rehearsing in its spaces. Check out upcoming events here:https://gam.cl/en/

Templo Bahá'í:

Situated at the foot of the Andes, this temple is not only a meditation and spirituality center open to all religions but also a stunning example of modern architecture in a peaceful setting surrounded by gardens. It’s the only Bahá'í temple in South America. If you visit on a weekday morning, you’ll experience the temple with fewer visitors (I recommend this as it can get quite busy at times). I know it’s far from the center of the city, but it truly is a special experience that I recommend if you have the time.

Teatro Municipal:

The main venue for opera, ballet, and classical music in Chile. If you’re interested in these performances, you can check out the schedule here: https://municipal.cl/#.

Matucana 100:

If you're interested in exploring dance and music from a more experimental and alternative angle, this cultural center offers just that. Check the program here: https://www.m100.cl/.

Cine El Biógrafo:

Located in Barrio Lastarria, this independent cinema is one of Santiago's oldest. Check out the schedule here: https://elbiografo.cl/cartelera/.


For most museums, you don't need to make reservations in advance unless there’s a special exhibition. For live shows, it's recommended to buy tickets ahead of time.

Adventure & Outdoor Activities

Santiago is nestled between two mountain ranges, offering plenty of opportunities to hike or bike up the hills. In the city, you'll find small hills that serve as semi-urban parks, as well as larger hills at the foot of the mountains, with trekking routes for all levels. Some trails are within parks, where you'll find other activities and often an entrance fee, while others are accessible trails on the surrounding hills, free to explore.

Routes for hiking or biking

  • Cerro el Carbón: on foot

  • Cerro Pochoco: on foot

  • Cerro Manquehue/Manquehuito: on foot or bike

  • Morro Las Papas: on foot

  • Parque Mahuida: on foot, with some trails for biking

  • Cerro San Cristóbal: This hill is one of Santiago's main tourist attractions, and for good reason. It is part of the Metropolitan Park of Santiago, the largest in the capital. You can reach the top on foot, by car, by bike, on a funicular, or by cable car. There are several points of interest, such as the Virgin statue, an observatory, a cultural house, various gardens, activities for children, and hiking trails.

  • Cerro Santa Lucía: It's a different concept, more like an urban park on a hill of historical and cultural importance. The climb is short, and while it's not as high, it offers views of various points in the city. I often like to go to Cerro Santa Lucía before exploring the rest of Lastarria’s neighborhood.

Nice parks for walking, exercising, or relaxing

Bike lanes

Recommended route: Andrés Bello Street area. If you are a Strava user you can find a good route here: Andres Bello Bike Lane.

Start from Puente del Arzobispo, following the river along its right side. Additionally, on Sundays, most of Andrés Bello Avenue is closed to cars, allowing cyclists, skaters, and pedestrians to move freely and safely. 

Bike lanes map of Santiago: Ciclovías Santiago.

Day Trips & Getaways

Valparaíso:

Whether for a day trip or a weekend getaway, Valparaíso is a unique and colorful city that attracts both tourists and Chileans, just 2 hours from Santiago. This historic port city is famous for its colorful houses on the hills, vibrant street art, and bohemian culture. It has iconic funiculars that make it easier to access its steep streets and offer breathtaking views of the bay. With an ever-evolving art scene, delicious seafood cuisine, and a unique blend of history and creativity, Valparaíso is one of the most special and beloved cities in Chile. If you're looking for great food with the best views, visit the Fauna or El Internado restaurants, which are located right across from each other. Fauna has the best views to the sea, while El Internado offers an amazing view of the hills.

Algarrobo:

If you're looking to visit the coast for its beaches, Algarrobo is a nearby area to the capital that offers numerous beaches where you can either swim or simply walk and enjoy the views. If you're aiming for a relaxing weekend with a sea view and the beach at your feet, I recommend finding an Airbnb near Playa El Canelillo or Playa El Canelo.

Wineries:

Santiago is surrounded by some of the world's best wine regions, making it an ideal base for day trips to nearby vineyards. These excursions offer wine tastings, vineyard tours, and insights into Chile's rich winemaking history. Here are some great options for you to consider:

How to get there:

  • Guided Tours: Many companies offer half-day or full-day wine tours with transportation, tastings, and meals.

  • Self-Drive: Renting a car provides more flexibility, but one person must refrain from drinking.

Public Transport + Taxis: Some wineries are accessible by bus or train, but taxis or transfers are required for the final stretch.

Cajón del Maipo:

One of the most popular destinations for nature lovers is the Cajón del Maipo area. This zone offers:

  • Nature and landscapes: Embalse El Yeso, trekking routes, hot springs, waterfalls, and more.

  • Sports and adventure: Rafting, kayaking, climbing, horseback riding, and trekking.

  • Accommodations for all tastes: Although a day trip is possible, you can also experience camping, hotels, cabins, domes, and more.

  • Gastronomy and beer: Don't miss out on visiting and tasting craft breweries, as well as a unique selection of local restaurants and flavors.

Visit Cajón del Maipo

Santiago in April

April in Santiago marks the beginning of autumn. The temperatures are usually mild, allowing you to comfortably wear a t-shirt or a light sweater throughout the day. However, mornings and evenings will likely require a jacket as it gets colder. Rain is not frequent, and most days are sunny. Expect high’s around 75°F and low’s around 44°F.

What happens in Santiago in April? In April, Chile celebrates the "Month of the Book." It's a culturally-focused month with various events such as Book Fairs, workshops, exhibitions, and other festivities. The most important fair is the International Book Fair, a gathering space for publishers, authors, and readers around literature and culture. For more information about this year's edition, visit https://www.instagram.com/filchile.

Continuing with the cultural theme, a notable exhibition available until the 6th of this month is the José Venturelli Centennial Exhibition at the Centro Cultural La Moneda. "With over 470 pieces on display, this exhibit presents the life and work of this pivotal figure in Chilean and Latin American art, highlighting his character as a traveling artist who, through the use of various artistic and thematic mediums, expressed his social, humanist, and political commitment, creating intercultural impact and influence in different countries." You can find information about this exhibition here: https://www.cclm.cl/exposicion/centenario-jose-venturelli/
(You need to reserve a ticket, though it's free.)

Other events that might interest you:

Some events of the month have not yet been formally announced, and we will be updating the guide as more information becomes available!

Insider Tips & Practical Information

I can't finish this guide without mentioning some practical tips and information for your stay in Chile.

Like in any major city, Santiago has its challenges regarding safety. The main tips to avoid incidents are: avoid walking around with your phone visible or in hand, be cautious with your belongings in touristic areas, and try not to walk in central Santiago during the night.

For transportation, we use: Uber, Cabify, and Didi.
To rent bikes: Bike Santiago Itaú
To order food: Ubereats, Rappi and Pedidos Ya.

If you want to use the Santiago Metro, avoid it during the week between 7 and 9 am and between 6 and 8 pm, as it can get very crowded. However, it is a very efficient and modern transportation system. To get your metro card and charge it, you will likely need Chilean cash.

In restaurants, the normal and expected tip is 10%. If you want to leave more, you should communicate it directly to the waiter or leave it in cash with your bill.

Today, most businesses accept card payments, and it’s not very common to find places that only accept cash, though it can still happen sometimes.

Regarding language, although English is taught in many schools in Chile, you’ll likely encounter people who know a few words or key phrases but don’t speak fluently. Nevertheless, I believe most people understand more than they let on!

After all this overview of neighborhoods, museums, restaurants, activities, and outings, all I have left is to wish you a pleasant and enjoyable stay, where you can discover the parts of Santiago that you connect with the most. While I’ve mentioned many places in this guide, I also encourage you to explore new areas, places beyond the touristy spots, and even walk without a plan—because those unplanned moments are often the ones that stay in our memories the longest. I hope you make wonderful memories of this city and country, and that on your next visit, you'll be eager to discover even more!