What to Do in Santiago: Top 10 Must-See Attractions (2025)

Santiago is a city that captivates you right away. Surrounded by the majestic Andes Mountains, it blends history and modernity in a unique way. Around every corner, there’s something new to discover—whether it’s a charming café, a lively square, or a breathtaking view. More than just a gateway to Chile, the capital surprises with its energy and diversity.

To help you make the most of the city, we’ve gathered the 10 best attractions in Santiago—the ones that truly make a difference in any itinerary. Get ready to explore from top to bottom, from the city streets to the mountains, passing through historic landmarks and vibrant spaces. We’ll show you why Santiago is the perfect destination for culture, adventure, and stunning landscapes!

La Moneda Palace

The first must-stop for those wanting to understand more about Chile’s history and culture is La Moneda Palace, located in the heart of Santiago. Besides being the seat of government, it’s one of the country’s most iconic landmarks. The highlight is the changing of the guard, which takes place at Plaza de la Constitución on alternating days. It’s a well-organized and impressive ceremony, so it’s worth arriving early to get a good spot and enjoy the spectacle.

If you want to go beyond the exterior, the palace offers free guided tours, but you need to book in advance on the official website, as spots fill up quickly. The tour is conducted in Spanish.

Santa Lucía Hill

Santa Lucía Hill is an unmissable spot in Santiago for those looking to explore history while enjoying an amazing city view. Located in the heart of the city, between the Lastarria and Bellas Artes neighborhoods, this hill is a historical and cultural landmark that was once used as a fortress during wars. Today, it’s a charming public park, perfect for a relaxing stroll and great photos.

At the top, there’s a viewpoint offering breathtaking views of the city—but fair warning: you’ll need some stamina to climb the stairs. Additionally, at the Avenida Alameda entrance, you’ll find the Neptune Fountain, a highly photogenic spot and a great place to start your visit.

Entrance is free, and the park is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 8 AM to 6:30 PM. Just a heads-up: the site isn’t very accessible for those with mobility difficulties, as there are plenty of stairs.

Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago

Another iconic landmark in the city is the Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago, located right in the heart of Plaza de Armas. With its Neo-Renaissance architecture, the cathedral stands out not only for its beauty but also for its historical significance. The current building, inaugurated in 1748, is actually the fifth version of the cathedral, as previous ones were destroyed by earthquakes and fires. Stepping inside is like taking a journey through the history of Catholicism in Chile, with sculptures and a sacred art museum to explore.

Entrance is free, and the cathedral is always open, but keep an eye on mass schedules, which may vary between weekdays and weekends. If you appreciate architecture or are looking for a quiet moment in the city, this is the place to be. Beyond its impressive interior, the surrounding Plaza de Armas area is lively, with street performers and tourists exploring the square.

Plaza de Armas

The Plaza de Armas is the true heart of Santiago, rich in history and culture. Since its foundation in 1541, the square was designed by the Spanish as the city’s central hub, surrounded by important buildings like the Palacio de la Real Audiencia (now the National Historical Museum). It’s the kind of place where you can feel the city’s rhythm, with tourists, locals, and street performers creating a vibrant atmosphere.

Beyond the historic architecture, you’ll find artisan shops and great cafés to relax in. During the day, the square is full of life—perfect for people-watching and even catching cultural performances. However, at night, the atmosphere changes, becoming quieter and less recommended for strolling.

Getting there is super easy: Plaza de Armas metro station (Line 3 or 5) drops you off right at the corner.

Sky Costanera

And of course, the Sky Costanera couldn’t be left out! The tallest observatory in Latin America, it stands 300 meters high. Located inside the Costanera Center in the Providencia district, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Andes Mountains. It’s the perfect spot for those wanting to see Santiago from a whole new perspective.

To make the most of it, visit on a clear day, preferably in the late afternoon, to watch the sunset and see the city lights turn on. The observatory has two levels—one enclosed, great for cold days, and another open-air deck, ideal for those who want to feel the wind while admiring the scenery.

Tickets cost 18,000 Chilean pesos for adults (approximately $20 USD) and can be purchased online or at the ticket office.

Parque de Las Esculturas

The Parque de las Esculturas, located in the Providencia district, is a perfect spot for those who enjoy outdoor art and nature. The park was created in 1986, transforming an area affected by floods into an open-air museum. Today, it features around 40 sculptures by both Chilean and international artists, along with well-maintained green spaces that add a special charm to the place.

The park is ideal for a relaxing stroll, especially on sunny days. You can walk among the sculptures, have a picnic, or simply unwind while enjoying the Andes Mountains in the background. A fun fact is that during the summer, the park hosts the International Jazz Festival, which attracts a large crowd and makes the atmosphere even more vibrant.

Entrance is free, and the park is open daily from 10 AM to 7:30 PM. To get there, take the metro to Pedro de Valdivia station (Line 1) and walk to the park, which is right next to the Mapocho River. It’s a great addition to your Santiago itinerary, especially if you’re looking for something different and outdoors!

San Cristóbal Hill

The San Cristóbal Hill is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the city, perfect for those who want to have an incredible panoramic view of Santiago and the Andes Mountains. You can reach the top in several ways: on foot, by bike, by funicular, or by cable car, which are attractions in themselves.

One of the most practical and fun ways to go up is by the Santiago Cable Car, which has three stations: Oasis, near the Japanese Garden; Tupahue, in the middle of the park; and Cumbre, at the top. The average round-trip price for the cable car is 5,500 Chilean pesos (about $6 USD) per adult on weekends and holidays, and 4,000 Chilean pesos (about $4.50 USD) during the week. The funicular, inaugurated in 1925, is a classic experience, with a stop at the zoo and another at the final station, which leaves you close to the Sanctuary of the Immaculate Conception. To go up and down by funicular, the average cost is 2,950 Chilean pesos (about $3 USD) on weekends and holidays, and 2,250 Chilean pesos (about $2.50 USD) during the week.

At the top, the Terraza Bellavista is the highlight, with a viewpoint offering breathtaking views. If the day is clear, you can even see the peaks of the Andes. Don’t forget to bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to explore the trails. And if possible, go up in the late afternoon to enjoy the sunset, which makes the landscape even more beautiful!

Cajón Del Maipo

The Cajón del Maipo is one of the most popular day trips from Santiago, perfect for those looking to escape the city’s hustle and reconnect with nature. Located in the mountains, this canyon impresses with its breathtaking landscapes, including snow-capped peaks (depending on the season) and the famous blue-water lagoon. Most visitors opt for guided tours since public transportation doesn’t reach the area, and the winding roads require skilled driving.

The tour usually starts early, with departure times between 5:30 AM and 6:00 AM, to avoid traffic and make the most of the day. Along the way, there are strategic stops for coffee and winter clothing rentals in case you’re not well-equipped, as temperatures can be quite low, especially in the morning.

If you want to experience Cajón del Maipo to the fullest, we recommend taking this tour with MTO Tour Chile. Besides ensuring comfort and convenience, their tour includes scenic stops, a complete picnic in a stunning setting, and a guide who shares interesting facts about the region.

Book your spot on this tour and enjoy every moment of the experience, from the early departure in Santiago to the return, with everything organized so you can fully appreciate the beauty of the mountains.

Valle Nevado

The Valle Nevado, just 46 km from Santiago, is the perfect destination for those who want to enjoy the snow in the Andes Mountains. Known as the largest ski resort in South America, it offers slopes for all levels, from beginners to experienced skiers, along with activities like snowboarding and scenic rides.

During the winter, the road to Valle Nevado requires caution—it has many curves, and snow chains are mandatory. For those who prefer not to drive, booking a direct transfer is a great option.

Beyond the slopes, Valle Nevado has shops for equipment rentals, cozy restaurants, and excellent infrastructure. For those looking to ski, the entrance fee is 99,000 Chilean pesos (approximately $110 USD), which includes the rental of equipment. Children under 12 and seniors over 75 enter for free but still need to rent equipment to access the slopes.

Day Trip to Viña del Mar

If you have some extra time in your itinerary, it’s well worth adding Viña del Mar as an extension of your trip to Santiago. Known as the Garden City, Viña charms visitors with its beaches, the famous Flower Clock, and cultural attractions like the Fonck Museum, which houses an authentic moai from Easter Island. The city is about 130 km from Santiago, making it perfect for a day trip or even an overnight stay to explore at a slower pace. Plus, Viña del Mar is a great complement for those already planning to visit its neighbor Valparaíso, forming an irresistible duo of charm and history.

If you want to make the most of Viña del Mar and Valparaíso in a single day, a guided tour is an excellent choice. These tours include transportation with hotel pickup, a guide who speaks Portuguese, English, and Spanish, and strategic stops to explore the main attractions. You’ll visit the Flower Clock, see an authentic moai at the Fonck Museum, and walk through the streets of Valparaíso, filled with art and history. There’s also the option to visit the Casablanca Valley for a wine tasting experience, making the day even more special.

Getting Around Santiago

Getting around Santiago is practical and efficient, thanks to the city’s excellent public transportation system. The metro is the best option for tourists, with seven lines connecting nearly all major attractions, such as Cerro San Cristóbal, La Moneda Palace, and Cerro Santa Lucía. It’s fast, safe, and very easy to use. To access both the metro and buses, you’ll need the Bip! Card, which costs 1,550 Chilean pesos and can be recharged at metro stations.

In addition to the metro, Santiago’s buses are modern and cover areas not served by the rail system. Another alternative for exploring the city is renting bicycles or electric scooters. And if you enjoy walking, Santiago is very pedestrian-friendly, with many attractions concentrated in flat, easily accessible areas.

Staying Connected in Santiago

During our trip to Santiago, we used the Airalo eSIM to stay connected at all times, and it was one of the best choices we made. The 30-day plan cost just $23 USD, perfect for those planning to explore for a longer period. If you’re staying for a shorter time, they also offer a 7-day plan for $11 USD and a 10-day plan for $18 USD. Activation is super simple and done directly on your phone, without the need for a physical SIM card, ensuring high-quality internet to browse, use maps, and share every moment of your trip. See all Airalo plans for Santiago.

Best Time to Visit Santiago

The best time to visit Santiago and enjoy the snow-covered landscapes is between June and August, during winter. During this period, the mountains surrounding the city turn into a stunning white spectacle, and ski resorts like Valle Nevado, Farellones, and Portillo are in full operation. Check out the best hotels for these dates.

Conclusion: What to Do in Santiago

Santiago is a city that blends history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, serving as a base for unique experiences like the cerros, Cajón del Maipo, Valle Nevado, and the charming cities of Viña del Mar and Valparaíso. Whether exploring urban attractions, enjoying the snow, or discovering the surrounding areas, the Chilean capital offers something special for every type of traveler.