Santiago de Chile, the country's vibrant capital, is a city full of life, history and culture. On a public holiday, when the streets are filled with people enjoying their free time, the city offers a wide variety of activities and places to explore. From the majesty of its mountains to its rich cultural heritage, Santiago is the perfect destination for a day of rest and discovery.
1. Breakfast in a traditional café
Start your day at one of Santiago’s historic cafés, such as Café Haiti or Café Colonia. These places have witnessed the evolution of the city and offer an authentic experience. You can try a typical Chilean breakfast that includes a crispy marraqueta (a type of Chilean bread), accompanied by palta (avocado), cheese, ham and a good coffee. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and plan the rest of your day.
2. Tour of the Historic Center
After breakfast, head to the heart of Santiago: the Historic Center. Here, you can immerse yourself in Chilean history and culture. Some of the must-see places include:
Plaza de Armas: The meeting point of the city and a place full of life, where you can admire the equestrian statue of Pedro de Valdivia, founder of Santiago, and observe the movement of the city.
The Metropolitan Cathedral: A masterpiece of neoclassical architecture dating back to the 18th century, the cathedral is a place of peace and reflection, with impressive details in its interior.
La Moneda Palace: The seat of the Chilean government is an iconic building in Santiago. If you're lucky, you might witness the changing of the guard, a ceremony steeped in tradition that takes place on specific days.
Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art: This museum houses an impressive collection of art and artifacts from the indigenous cultures of Latin America. It's a fascinating place to learn about the region's pre-Columbian roots.
3. Lunch at the Central Market
After exploring the center, a great option for lunch is the Mercado Central. This iconic market is known for its fresh seafood and traditional Chilean dishes. Try a plate of “paila marina” (a seafood broth) or a “caldillo de congrio” (a fish soup that is one of Chile’s most beloved dishes). In addition to the food, the market offers an authentic experience of everyday life in Santiago, with its bustling stalls and characteristic atmosphere.
4. Walk through Santa Lucia Hill
After lunch, a good way to continue the day is by climbing Santa Lucia Hill. This urban park is an oasis of tranquility in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the city. The climb up the hill is relatively easy and is filled with well-kept gardens, fountains and viewing points that offer panoramic views of Santiago. At the top, you'll find Hidalgo Castle, a former fortress now used for cultural events. From here, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the city and the surrounding mountains.
5. Visit to the Lastarria neighborhood
Next up is Barrio Lastarria, one of the most bohemian and vibrant neighborhoods in Santiago. This neighborhood is known for its cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and unique artistic atmosphere. Stroll through its streets and explore the art galleries, bookstores, and locally designed boutiques. Lastarria is also famous for its gastronomic offering, with a variety of cafes and restaurants offering everything from international cuisine to Chilean dishes with a modern twist.
If you like museums, the Museum of Visual Arts and the Salvador Allende Museum of Solidarity are excellent options to learn more about art and recent history of Chile.
6. Relaxation in the Forest Park
After a day full of exploring, Parque Forestal is the ideal place to relax. This park stretches along the Mapocho River and is one of Santiago’s most beloved green spaces. You can take a stroll along its tree-lined paths, enjoy a picnic on the grass, or simply sit on a bench and people-watch. The park is also home to the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, which features an impressive collection of Chilean and European art.
7. Dinner at Bellavista
As the evening approaches, head to Barrio Bellavista, known for its vibrant nightlife. This neighborhood is famous for its colorful houses and murals, as well as its lively atmosphere. Here you will find a variety of bars, restaurants, and clubs where you can enjoy a delicious dinner and a couple of drinks. Some recommended options include:
Galindo : A traditional restaurant serving Chilean dishes such as empanadas, pastel de choclo and cazuela.
Like Water for Chocolate: A restaurant with unique décor and dishes inspired by Latin American cuisine.
Patio Bellavista: A complex that brings together several restaurants and bars in an open-air environment, perfect for enjoying the evening.
8. Cultural night: Theater or live music
To round off the day on a high note, Santiago offers a diverse cultural offering, especially on a public holiday. You can attend a play at one of the city's many theatres, such as the Teatro Municipal de Santiago, which is known for its opera and ballet productions. If you prefer live music, Club Subterráneo or Club Chocolate in Bellavista are great places to enjoy local bands and emerging artists.
9. Night tour of the city
If you still have energy left, a night tour of Santiago can be the perfect way to end your holiday. The city is transformed at night, with its illuminated monuments and a different atmosphere than during the day. You can walk along Paseo Ahumada and Paseo Estado, which at this time of day are much quieter but still charming.
Another option is to climb San Cristóbal Hill and enjoy the night view of Santiago from above. If the cable car is operating, it can be a magical experience to see the city lights from above.
10. Withdrawal to your accommodation
Finally, after a day full of activities and discoveries, it's time to head back to your accommodation. Santiago offers a wide range of options for all budgets, from luxury hotels to cozy hostels. If you stay in the center or in nearby neighborhoods such as Lastarria or Providencia, you'll be close to most attractions and can rest comfortably after your urban adventure.
Whether you're looking to explore Chile's rich history, enjoy its vibrant cultural life or simply relax in its beautiful parks, Santiago has everything you need for a perfect day out. So next time you find yourself in the Chilean capital during a holiday, don't hesitate to follow this itinerary and discover everything this incredible city has to offer.