Travel around Santiago with Bobby
I chose to visit Santiago because it’s a city that promises a unique blend of urban culture and natural beauty. The thought of exploring a lively city nestled against the Andes mountains was irresistible. I was drawn to the historic sites like Plaza de Armas and La Moneda Palace, which reflect Chile’s rich history. I also wanted to experience the vibrant atmosphere of neighborhoods like Bellavista, known for its colorful street art, trendy cafes, and energetic nightlife. With easy access to panoramic viewpoints like Cerro San Cristóbal and nearby wine regions, Santiago seemed to offer endless adventures. Plus, I couldn’t wait to dive into Chilean cuisine and explore the local flavors.
Day 1Historical Heartbeat – Plaza de Armas and La Moneda Palace
I began my journey in the historic center of Santiago, starting with Plaza de Armas, the city’s main square since colonial times. Walking through this lively plaza, I admired the stunning architecture of Santiago Metropolitan Cathedral and watched local artists and street performers bring energy to the space. From there, I headed to La Moneda Palace, where I took a guided tour and learned about Chile’s political history. The palace itself was impressive, with its neoclassical design and significant historical moments, like the 1973 coup.
For lunch, I tried a local spot nearby and ordered pastel de choclo, a Chilean corn pie with meat and a deliciously creamy corn topping. After a full day, I checked into Hotel Magnolia, a boutique hotel with a blend of modern style and historic charm. Its central location made it easy to explore, and the rooftop views were the perfect way to end the day.
Plaza de Armas and La Moneda offer a great start to Santiago’s history—don’t miss the chance to take a tour! Hotel Magnolia is a fantastic choice for those wanting a stylish, centrally located stay.
Day 2Color and Culture – Exploring Bellavista and San Cristóbal Hill
Day two was all about Santiago’s colorful art and lively culture, beginning with a visit to Bellavista. Known as the city’s bohemian quarter, Bellavista is filled with vibrant murals, quirky cafes, and art galleries. I wandered the streets, taking in the street art and stopping at La Chascona, one of Pablo Neruda’s homes, which offered a fascinating look into the poet’s life. The neighborhood had a creative, laid-back vibe, and I found myself lost in its charm for hours.
After a quick lunch at a local cafe, I made my way to Cerro San Cristóbal, one of Santiago’s highest hills. I took the funicular to the top, where I was greeted with panoramic views of the city and the Andes mountains stretching across the horizon. Watching the sunset from up here was magical and an unforgettable end to the day.
Lunch in Bellavista was light and tasty, with fresh local ingredients that highlighted Chile’s flavors. I ended the evening with a traditional pisco sour at Patio Bellavista, which had a perfect balance of tangy and sweet. The bohemian vibe of Bellavista made every bite feel connected to Santiago’s creative spirit.
Food
Hotel Magnolia continued to impress with its beautiful decor and comfortable rooms. The quiet ambiance and excellent amenities were a great contrast to the lively energy of Santiago’s neighborhoods. It was the perfect retreat each night.
Accomodation
Wandering through Bellavista’s colorful streets and visiting La Chascona was a unique cultural experience. The neighborhood’s artistic vibe and the incredible views from San Cristóbal Hill made for an inspiring and memorable day. Watching the sunset over Santiago from the hilltop was a highlight.
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Bellavista’s artistic atmosphere is a must-see for anyone visiting Santiago. Ending the day with the views from San Cristóbal is unbeatable—try to catch the sunset if you can!
Day 3A Taste of Chile – Mercado Central and Local Cuisine
For my third day, I focused on Santiago’s food scene, starting at Mercado Central. This bustling market is known for its fresh seafood, and I sampled some of Chile’s best catches, including ceviche and congrio (Conger eel) soup. The market’s energy was contagious, with vendors calling out and the aroma of fresh fish filling the air.
After the market, I explored the Lastarria neighborhood, known for its cozy cafes, boutiques, and vibrant street life. I stopped at a local eatery for lunch, where I tried empanadas de pino, filled with beef, onions, and olives—a classic Chilean treat. In the evening, I returned to the Bellavista area to experience Santiago’s nightlife, heading to Patio Bellavista, an open-air complex with restaurants, bars, and live music. I ended the night with a pisco sour at a lively bar, enjoying the vibrant nightlife.
Starting the day with seafood at Mercado Central was a treat, and the fresh ceviche was especially memorable. Lunch in Lastarria was equally delightful, with traditional empanadas that were packed with flavor. Each meal was a delicious dive into local flavors.
Food
Hotel Magnolia’s central location made exploring Santiago’s food and nightlife scenes convenient and comfortable. Returning to the hotel felt like coming back to a stylish sanctuary, with impeccable service and a restful atmosphere. Every night here felt like a touch of luxury.
Accomodation
Mercado Central’s bustling energy was a fantastic glimpse into local life, while Lastarria’s cozy cafes and street life were perfect for a relaxed afternoon. Patio Bellavista provided a lively nightlife experience, with music and a variety of bar options. It was a well-rounded day filled with flavor and energy.
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Mercado Central is a foodie’s paradise—go with an empty stomach and try a bit of everything. Patio Bellavista is the perfect spot for an evening out, with plenty of options and a fun atmosphere.
Day 4Andes Adventure – Day Trip to Cajón del Maipo
For my final day, I took a day trip to Cajón del Maipo, a breathtaking valley located just outside Santiago. The drive itself was scenic, with winding roads that led me deeper into the Andes. Arriving at Embalse el Yeso, a turquoise reservoir surrounded by mountains, was a surreal experience. I hiked around the area, breathing in the fresh mountain air and soaking up the serene atmosphere.
I brought a packed lunch to enjoy by the water, taking in the incredible landscape. In the afternoon, I stopped by a local vineyard on the way back to Santiago, where I sampled some Chilean wines, including Carmenere, Chile’s signature grape. This was the perfect way to end my journey, with the taste of Chile’s rich wines and a view of the Andes as my backdrop.
I brought a packed lunch to enjoy by the Embalse el Yeso reservoir, making for a peaceful meal surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. On the way back, the vineyard stop allowed me to taste some of Chile’s best wines, including a robust Carmenere. Each bite and sip was enhanced by the beautiful scenery.
Food
Spending my final night at Hotel Magnolia provided a perfect end to the trip, with its luxurious atmosphere and welcoming service. The comfort of the room and the view from the rooftop made it a memorable last evening in Santiago. I couldn’t have asked for a better stay.
Accomodation
The day trip to Cajón del Maipo was a highlight, with the Andes mountains and turquoise waters of Embalse el Yeso creating a postcard-perfect scene. The short hike and vineyard stop on the way back completed the experience beautifully. This day captured Santiago’s blend of nature and culture at its best.
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Cajón del Maipo is an absolute gem for nature lovers—make sure to bring your camera for the views at Embalse el Yeso. The vineyard stop was a great touch, adding a taste of Chile’s wine culture to the day.
Summary of My Trip
Santiago surprised me with its perfect mix of culture, history, and natural beauty. From the vibrant energy of Plaza de Armas to the artistic vibe in Bellavista, each neighborhood had its own unique character. The stunning backdrop of the Andes mountains added a sense of wonder to everything, especially at viewpoints like Cerro San Cristóbal and during the day trip to Cajón del Maipo. The food scene was another highlight, with local markets like Mercado Central and traditional dishes like pastel de choclo offering delicious introductions to Chilean flavors. My stay at Hotel Magnolia was a treat, combining comfort with a beautiful design that matched Santiago’s modern-meets-historic charm. The nightlife at Patio Bellavista added a fun dimension, showing me Santiago’s lively spirit and love for music. The local people were warm and welcoming, which made exploring the city even more enjoyable. Santiago is a city that feels both cosmopolitan and connected to nature, offering something special at every turn. I left with a deep appreciation for its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes.
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Santiago is a dynamic city that beautifully combines cultural depth, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. From its iconic attractions and flavorful cuisine to its stunning mountain views, Santiago offers a unique experience that feels both refreshing and enriching. Each part of the journey brought a new side of the city, making it a memorable destination that leaves a lasting impression.
Lunch near Plaza de Armas was my first taste of authentic Chilean food, with a rich pastel de choclo that was both comforting and delicious. The mix of creamy corn and savory meat flavors was a perfect introduction to Chile’s cuisine. It set a high standard for the meals to come.
Food
Hotel Magnolia was an ideal place to stay, combining historical charm with modern design in a prime central location. The staff were welcoming, and the rooftop view was stunning, making it a relaxing spot to unwind after a day of exploring. The attention to detail in every room was impressive.
Accomodation
Exploring Plaza de Armas and La Moneda Palace was a captivating start to my journey, giving me insight into Santiago’s rich history and architecture. The guided tour at La Moneda was informative, and the plaza was vibrant with local artists and performers. It was a perfect introduction to Santiago’s cultural heart.
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