Nestled in a valley surrounded by the snow-capped Andes, Santiago is the vibrant capital and largest city in Chile. It’s home to bustling markets, outstanding museums and picturesque hilltop parks where you can take in panoramas across its mix of colonial and modern architecture.

Things to do

Plaza de Armas lies at the heart of Santiago and is lined with elegant colonial buildings, such as the Palacio de la Real Audiencia that now houses the National History Museum. Learn about Chile’s Indigenous people and the arrival of the Spanish, then admire the grandiose architecture of the 18th-century Metropolitan Cathedral.

Ride the historic funicular up to the top of Cerro San Cristóbal to take in the city views, then explore the botanical gardens of Parque Metropolitano at its base. If you’re travelling with kids, let them run loose in the treehouses and water features of the Bicentenary Children's Park.

Visit La Chascona, the former home of much-loved Chilean poet Pablo Neruda that serves as a museum dedicated to his life and work. It’s located within the artsy Bellavista neighbourhood and features the poet’s eclectic style in its furnishings and artwork, which help bring his poetry to life.

Want to learn about Chile’s years under General Augusto Pinochet? Head to the Museum of Memory and Human Rights, which documents his 17-year dictatorship. There’s engaging video footage, legal documents and photographs on display, paying tribute to the thousands whose lives were impacted.

Getting around

Santiago International Airport is the main gateway to the city located around 20 minutes’ drive west of the centre. An extensive metro system accesses most areas of Santiago, while its historic core is best explored on foot.