Santiago is the capital and largest city in Chile. It has long been thought of as just a stopover destination but the city is a cool and rapidly growing metropolis that has its own proud identity.

2. WHAT’S THIS ALL ABOUT?
Santiago is the capital and largest city in Chile. It has long been thought of as just
a stopover destination but the city is a cool and rapidly growing metropolis that
has its own proud identity.
Settled between the Andes mountain range and the Cordillera de la Costa,
Santiago boasts one of the best backdrops of any capital city. It is the perfect
base for climbing, skiing, sunbathing or wine tasting.
In the winter people go on day trips skiing and in the warmer months, the Cajón
del Maipo has so many adventure activities on offer – horse-riding and rafting to
name just two.
The city centre is overflowing with art and museums, including the Museo
Histórico Nacional which tells Chilean history and Museo Chileno De Arte
Precolombino which is the home to ancient artefacts.

3. ATTRACTIONS
We’ve selected our top 5 things to see and do in Santiago:
Cerro San Cristóbal: The Cerro San Cristóbal provides a spectacular panoramic view of the whole city. The
hill is crowned by a gleaming white statue of the Virgen de la Inmaculada Concepción. Take an enjoyable
climb or the monumental funicular.
Centro Gabriela Mistral: The cultural centre, Centro Gabriela Mistral, is an exciting new addition to the
Santiago art scene. It has two large exhibition spaces, a bookstore, wine shop and outdoor antiques fair.
La Chascona: The home of the famous poet, Pablo Neruda, has been transformed into a museum and
guided tours take you through the collection of the furniture and artwork.
Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino: This art museum is dedicated to the study and display of artefacts
from Central and South America. In particular, Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino hosts a fantastic
collection of pottery from most major pre-Columbian cultures.
Mercado Central: This fish market is a hotspot for seafood lunches. Visit Mercado Central and avoid the
tourist trap restaurants for authentic Santiago food.

4. WEATHER
Santiago has a Mediterranean climate, with mild, wet winters and very warm and
dry summers. Summer lasts from November to February when temperatures can
hit highs of 34°C. When the days are not so hot in the summer sun protection
must still be applied, as there is a strong wind form the southwest.
Winter happens from May to August and temperatures average around 11°C.
Temperatures during the night can fall to around 0°C on the coldest days. It
usually only snows up in the Andes, which are around an hour away from the city
and perfect ski resorts. Rainfall increases during winter and is a more humid
season.

5. CLOTHING
During the warm and humid summer months, shorts and t-shirts are a
commonly worn to keep visitors cooler. However, the weather can be
unpredictable so always pack layers such as cardigan or pashmina to
cover up during the day or during the evenings.
For the summer months, remember to protect yourself with high factor
sun cream and sunglasses while exposed to the sun.
You will probably explore a lot of the city by foot so make sure you have
comfortable walking shoes.
If you are planning on visiting in the winter, it is essential that you bring
warm clothes.

6. IDEAL FOR…?
Santiago is the best destination in Chile for people looking to
explore somewhere new and not overrun by tourists. The city is
only just becoming a travel hotspot in its own right so the culture
and history is still fresh to be explored.
The best time to visit Santiago for sun and hot weather is during
the months of December, January and February, although many
people do visit in the winter to enjoy the skiing and snowboarding
in the Andes’ resorts.

7. WHAT NOW?
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Santiago