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Santiago

Chile

Santiago

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SantiagoGuide was updated:
In the heart of Chile, between Argentina and the South Pacific Ocean, lies the country's capital Santiago. Over a quarter of Chile's population call 'The City of the Island Hills' their home. Located in a valley consisting of broad and fertile lands, surrounded by vineyards and mountains, Santiago offers a cosmopolitan and energetic city life that is inseparably attached to its beautiful natural setting. Immerse yourself in the city's cultural and musical energy that is reflected in colourful neighbourhoods and a reinvigorated art scene.
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Facts
Population:Metro area: 6.9 million (2023)
Currency:Chilean Peso $: 1 Peso = 100 Centavos. No centavo denominated coins remain in circulation.
Emergency Numbers:130 Forest fires (Incendios forestales) 131 Ambulance (SAMU) 132 Firefighters (Bomberos) 133 Police Emergency (Emergencias Policiales) 136 Mountain Rescue (Cuerpo de Socorro Andino) 137 Sea Rescue (Rescate Marítimo de la Armada)
Newspapers:El Mercurio La Tercera La Segunda Las Últimas Noticias La Cuarta The Santiago Times (English) Online Newspapers: El Expreso de la Costa El Marino El Naveghable
Website:Government website: www.gob.cl/en Official tourism website: www.chile.travel/en
Opening Hours:General opening hours daily 10am to 9pm
Tourist Information:Oficina de turismo Plaza de Armas Plaza de Armas 2, Santiago Open Mon–Fri 9am–6pm, Sat & Sun 10am–4pm +56 2 2713 6745 turismo@munistgo.cl *This guide was researched and written by Johanna Schröter

Do & See

As a travel destination, Santiago is often overlooked and misjudged as a layover on the journey to another city in Chile, another country in South America, or another international destination. However, its perfect location between the Andes and the ocean will give you endless opportunities to explore the surrounding nature while Santiago itself will enchant you with a unique mix of ancient tradition and modern influences. Here are some of the things you should not miss when visiting Santiago:
Cerro San Cristóbal

Cerro San Cristóbal

The view from Cerro San Cristóbal is stunning and gives you the most scenic panorama of Santiago imaginable. There are several ways to reach the top of Cerro San Cristóbal to take in this unparalleled view. You can take the funicular that leaves from Bellavista or, if you are a hiking enthusiast, you can hike up Cerro San Cristóbal in about 45 minutes. Either way, try to catch the sunset or sunrise while you are up there and watch the city change from day to night.

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Barrio Bellavista

Barrio Bellavista

The bohemian quarter of Santiago, Barrio Bellavista, between the Mapocho River and San Cristóbal Hill, is bursting with secret oddities, colourful graffiti and hidden stalls and boutiques. During the day, you can enjoy the sun, take a stroll and buy all sorts of handcrafted and unique works of art. The weekly art market typically features jewellery made from Lapis Lazuli, a stone that, thanks to its deep blue colour, seems to fit the vibrant surroundings perfectly. At night, Bellavista transforms into a dazzling nightlife hub with a great selection of unique bars and restaurants.

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Cementerio General de Santiago

Cementerio General de Santiago

While it might seem a bit macabre to include a cemetery into your travel schedule, the history of this one is magnificent and the cemetery itself well worth the visit. It is the largest in Latin America and dates back to 1821. If you want to learn more about this resting place, named one the World's Most Scenic Cemetries by the CNN, you should join one of the two hour night tours that will take you through the entire cemetery. You have to be at least 18 years old to join.

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