Santiago: holidays in Chile’s geographical and cultural heart
Santiago has shaken off its old image and is now the go-to Chilean city. It’s even possible on a holiday in Santiago to ski in the nearby Andes and then go to the beach later the same day. And, of course, you’ll be returning time and time again to a sophisticated, cultural and cosmopolitan capital.
Santiago is the sixth-largest city in South America. Home to almost five million people, a third of the entire country’s population, it is located on an inland plain at the geographical centre of the country. It is, without doubt, Chile’s political and cultural centre and home to many of its finest restaurants and accommodations.
On your Santiago holiday you can take in its many museums, events, theatres, restaurants and bars. Stroll along the Parque Forestal, modelled on Parisian parks by a French landscaper, or explore the tree-lined paths along the Mapocho River.
For a gentle stroll there is the Parque Metropolitano, with its walking trails, picnic areas and zoo to enjoy. But, if you have energy to burn, you could hike up Cerro San Cristobal to enjoy the dazzling views of the city. For those of us preferring to get the views without the sweat there is always a taxi, bus or funicular option.