Santiago De Chile, commonly known as Santiago, has been the capital of Chile since the colonial era. It is a fussy and crowded city with over six million people. But, still, this city carries its aura, heritage traces, and antique colonial mansions.
You can enjoy the hilly areas with picturesque backdrops that are ideal for photography. Later on, you will find many artisanal boutiques and spectacular archaeological instances. There are a bunch of attraction spots for you. The ambiance here is funky.
Legitimately Awesome Must Visit Attractions/places in Santiago
Bellavista
Bellavista is a facet of graffiti-furnished streets, cafes, boutique shops, and art galleries. These all features beckon to the artsy people of the Bellavista. You will see eclectic food-lovers chilling and enjoying time at ingenious cocktail bars. The colonial buildings and archaic houses are also worthy of remembering.
The house, La Chascona, of famous poet Pablo Neruda will be a visit to a historic place. Even you can spend your time in Patio Bellavista for some shopping. If you are a mountain-lover, you should take the north turn to reach the Christopher Hill, the jewel of Santiago,
Eventually, the energetic ambiance, artisanal boutique, and laid-back atmosphere make this city perfect for hanging out. If you want to explore more wanders, you will be happy to see Pio Nono art between crafted streets and colorful homes. Every corner of Bellavista has something to amaze you.
Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art
If you are an art history enthusiast, you should head straight to the Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art. The museum’s collection exhibits the variegated arts of pottery, textiles, and sculptures. These are all from the Amazon, Mesoamerica, Caribbean, and the central and south Andes. Some catalog the pieces from Chinchorro mummies and Aztec empires. Meanwhile, you can also explore some desert hats and rock artwork exhibits.
Travelers appreciate the versatile collection of artifacts and structural beauty of the museum. Also, they are amazed by the quality of the exhibition and the intelligent presentation.
Central Market (Mercado Central)
If you want to cherish your dish with sea foods, you should head to the central market of Santiago. This market will bring you into a festive mood. While meandering the stalls and shops, you will see some unconventional sea fishes like; sea urchins, barnacles, giant squid, and many other rare species. The culinary dishes with soft music should be your next venture.
If you are not a seafood lover, this market is still worth visiting. A huge melange of fruits, an eclectic collection of vegetables, and spices will make your mind fresh. People also appreciate the architecture of the market.
Delicate eaters admit that fishmonger activities and colorful stalls create a sense of humming for the alluring dinner. If you want to visit this market, you should come on weekdays between 9 am to 5 pm. And weekend days, the time will be from 7 am to 3.30 pm. Some stalls and restaurants remain open till the night.
Santa Lucía Hill (Cerro Santa Lucía)
Santiago’s crown spot is a hilltop park, i.e. Santa Lucia Hill in the eastern zone. You will be tugged away by its panoramic view. You have to hike Santa Lucia Hill on foot from the main gate of the park. It is nearby the Santa Lucia metro station. A narrow path with high steps will take you to the top of the hill. Especially in the summertime, this spot becomes incredible and spectacular for photography. Also, the ambiance turns soothing and aesthetic with a charming view of fountains.
You must give some more hours to slowly explore the serenity and peaceful view of the Cerro Santa Lucia. But, if you are not ready for the trek, you can take a ropeway or elevator from the junction of Agustinas street and St Lucia.
Museum of Memory and Human Rights
If you’re keen to know about the autocracy of General Augusto Pinochet, come to the Museum of Memory and Human Rights. The museum will portray the anarchy and disorganization of Pinochet’s 17 years of rule. This museum spreads cultural awareness among thousands of people who suffered greatly due to retribution, imprisonment, and victimization during Pinochet’s ruling period. The museum also executes photos of oppressed people and video footage of protestors.
You will get emotional after seeing the collection of distressed objects and stories. Still, the collected things make the exhibition enlightening. When you see the unique artifacts, pictures, and stories, your mind will pray for those victims. Also, the glass-coated architectural view of this museum is outstanding and word-class.
Santiago indeed displays many faces of vision, but one thing you should admit; this city is a must-visit place in Chile. So, if you plan a short trip or extended visit to Santiago, you will have bucket-full things to do.