Things to do in Santiago in October

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Overview

October is a great time to visit Santiago. The weather is usually mildly cool, with temperatures ranging from 46—72°F (8—22°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Santiago during this time. Some of our top recommendations: visit the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, sample traditional Chilean dishes at a local restaurant, take a wine tour in the Maipo Valley, and more!

Santiago has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your October trip to Santiago. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to October. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Santiago in October. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout October, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

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Best events and things to do in Santiago in October

Top experiences in October
Visit the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes
October is a great time to visit the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, which houses an impressive collection of Chilean and international art. From classic paintings to contemporary installations, you can explore the museum's diverse exhibits and gain a deeper understanding of Chilean culture and history through art.
Sample traditional Chilean dishes at a local restaurant
October is a great time to indulge in traditional Chilean cuisine, as many restaurants offer seasonal dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. From hearty stews to seafood specialties, you can savor the flavors of Chilean gastronomy and experience the country's rich culinary heritage.
Take a wine tour in the Maipo Valley
October marks the beginning of the wine harvest season in Chile, and the Maipo Valley is a prime destination for wine enthusiasts. You can take a guided tour of the region's vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and of course, sample some of the finest wines produced in Chile.
Taste the seasonal fruits at Mercado Central
October is the peak season for many delicious fruits in Chile, and Mercado Central is the perfect place to sample them. From juicy strawberries to sweet cherries, you can indulge in a variety of fresh, seasonal fruits that are only available during this time of year.
Hike in the Andes Mountains to see the spring wildflowers
October is the ideal time to go hiking in the Andes Mountains, as the wildflowers are in full bloom. You can embark on a guided hike or explore the trails on your own, taking in the breathtaking views and vibrant colors of the springtime landscape.
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Holidays in Santiago in October
October
  • Day of the Discovery of Two Worlds (October 12)
  • Reformation Day (October 31)
Other notable holidays
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Weather in Santiago in October

Temperatures on an average day in Santiago in October

The average temperature in Santiago in October for a typical day ranges from a high of 72°F (22°C) to a low of 46°F (8°C). Some would describe the temperature to be mildly cool.

For comparison, the hottest month in Santiago, January, has days with highs of 85°F (30°C) and lows of 58°F (15°C). The coldest month, July has days with highs of 60°F (16°C) and lows of 39°F (4°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Santiago in October based on historical data.

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Historical temperature average in October
72°F
highs
46°F
lows

General weather summary

Mildly cool
Feels like
7%
Chance of rain
0.033 in
Amount
9.0 mph
Wind speed
35%
Humidity
12.9 hrs
Daylight length
7:01 AM
Sunrise
7:55 PM
Sunset
63%
Cloud cover
Sweater
What to wear
What to wear in October
With an average high of 72°F (22°C) and a low of 46°F (8°C), it generally feels mildly cool. With that in mind, most people would dress in something moderately warm like a sweater
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Best attractions for Santiago in October

Besides the array of exciting events and activities Santiago has to offer for travelers in October, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in Santiago that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in Santiago for October.
Patio Bellavista
1. Patio Bellavista
4.6
(21944)
Shopping mall
Sights & Landmarks
Vibrant shopping center featuring unique shops, restaurants with patios & cocktail bars.
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Came on Saturday afternoon to finish my day at this vibrant open-air area. Enjoy some casual dining, and was able to pick up last-minute gifts, and take in the lively atmosphere before heading to the airport. Worth stopping by if you’re around
This area had a fun vibe with plenty of restaurants and shops to explore. We ate at the BBQ place which was one of the best spots we ate at in Santiago. We would definitely recommend!
It’s a nice area with lots of Resturants but very touristy . Nice to walk around but the food would be fast and lacking quality much better options else where .
Patio Bellavista is a lively and stylish spot in Santiago, perfect for exploring shops, restaurants, and cafes. The atmosphere is vibrant, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the open-air setting. If you’re a meat lover, Texas Ribs is a solid choice for hearty dishes. We stopped by a café, soaking in the relaxed ambiance while sipping coffee. The variety of shops is impressive, offering everything from artisanal crafts to high-end fashion, but prices can be steep. While it’s a great place to wander and experience Santiago’s energy, be prepared for premium pricing.
Is a lively spot in the city, perfect for spending time exploring shops, restaurants, trying new food and buying souvenirs. It has a great variety of places to eat and drink, as well as a mix of shops. There’s parking available right in front of Patio Bellavista, which is convenient, but it’s a bit pricey. For less than 40 minutes, we ended up paying 2000 CLP. But the cost for a whole day is 6500 CLP, what’s actually not bad. Restroom facilities: The toilets are not the cleanest, and they charge 500 CLP per visit. Could definitely be improved, especially considering the fee.
Good place to buy souvenirs, more reasonably priced. I bought an Incan chess set for CLP35,000 in Valparaiso, but it’s CLP20,000 here. Should have come here earlier. The place is close to a few universities.
Foodie heaven. So much fun. Great atmosphere, music and selection of food. Perfect place for date night. Highly recommend.
Contemporary modern and chic shopping mall.👍 Loads of eateries, pubs, lounges and restaurants to cater to all kinds of taste buds and age groups. Live music and cozy ambience all around makes you feel relaxed and in the mood to wine and dine. Its a tourist hot spot so crowded most of the times. I spent an entire afternoon here and it was well worth it. Enjoyed every bit from the food to the shops to the local culture. Neat and clean open areas with well maintained roof top gardens and public spaces. Tasty food. Reasonable prices. Helpful staff. Overall a memorable experience with my local friends!👌
Santa Lucía Hill
2. Santa Lucía Hill
4.6
(3391)
Mountain peak
Sights & Landmarks
Urban hill with a picturesque, manicured park featuring terraces, fountains & a summit viewpoint.
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Cool place with a nice view. Probably a must go if you’re visiting Santiago. Be aware that it’s a LOT of stairs to climb.
Cerro Santa Lucía is a beautiful historic hill in the heart of Santiago, Chile. It offers stunning city views, peaceful gardens, and charming old architecture. A perfect spot for a relaxing walk, photography, or enjoying sunset moments. A must-visit for travelers exploring Santiago.
Beautiful hill in the heart of Santiago with gardens, fountains, and historic architecture. The climb is not too difficult and rewards you with amazing panoramic views of the city and the Andes. A perfect spot for a short walk, photography, or just relaxing in nature while still being in the city center.
Such a beautiful view over the city. Short walk up. Many places to sit and rest on the way up. Free entrance.
This place offers beutiful views of the whole city and the mountains around it. It’s easy to walk up and there are two platforms to enjoy
Great spot to visit. Easy climb up to top for lovely views.
Don't skip this place ,really nice view and building to take a splendid photo
Best place to start your sightseeing trip in Santiago! Beautiful views from the top of the mountains. There are a lot of stairs and walking uphill, so wear comfortable shoes. It was free to get in. Just show your passport number. The hill is very well maintained with flowers and plants, even in the winter. Great place to spend some time exploring the whole family. Very safe for tourists and spectacular views!
San Cristóbal Hill
3. San Cristóbal Hill
4.7
(3952)
Mountain peak
Nature & Parks
Landmark hill accessible on foot with a statue of the Virgin Mary, gardens, a zoo & city views.
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Visited Chile last year. A beautiful and peaceful place with amazing views of Santiago. I could even see in the distance, the snow on a part of the Andes mountain range. It was great.
The 22-meter statue on San Cristóbal Hill, dedicated to the Immaculate Conception, was designed by Italian sculptors Luigi Poletti and Giuseppe Obici, and was constructed by the French foundry Val D'Osne. Although it's cloudy day, tourists still crowded. The cable car took us to a platform where there are lots of souvenir stores , food stalls, then taking about 100 steps to the top. I wish I had enough time to climb up all the way to the top myself. The overview was excellent even in a cloudy day.
Takes around 40 minutes to walk up the hill, no entrance fee. Very beautiful view of Santiago, especially during sunset. It is possible to take the cable car too, if you don't want to walk up or down.
One of the highlights of the city. It's a nice walk up, but if you do, start early in the morning. It gets very warm, without much shade. Overall, very nice views of the city! Would come here more than once when I lived in Santiago.
Recoleta is a lively and diverse district of Santiago, known for its mix of culture, history, and everyday local life. It’s famous for the Patronato neighborhood, where you’ll find bustling markets, street food, and affordable shopping, reflecting the area’s strong immigrant influence. Recoleta is also home to the Cementerio General, one of the largest cemeteries in Latin America, full of history and impressive mausoleums. Close to central Santiago, it’s an interesting place to explore if you want to see a more authentic side of the city beyond the tourist areas. It has magnificent views to the city.
We decided to hike up here and it was harder than anticipated but what a sense of achievement we felt, would definitely do it again
Hill top, I went up on funicular and came down in cable car. Amazing experience in Santiago.
Fantastic views of santiago. Can take a cable car, bus or walk up.
Cenco Costanera
4. Cenco Costanera
4.4
(212849)
Shopping mall
Shopping
Complex featuring the Gran Torre, the tallest skyscraper in Latin America, hotels & a 6-story mall.
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Great place to get nice views, good food and buy things in the mall
Great place to just walk around, shop, dine and relax. 6 floors of best shopping in Santiago. Great views from the 5th floor of dining and plenty of underground parking space. Highly recommend.
Hi my nae is Daniela. This mall is huge. A lot of brands, you can find a bit of everything. Prices are like in EU, not really local things but the surrounding zone to the mall looks very interesting
This mall offers a large selection of brand names like Nike, North Face, Columbia, Gap etc. The pricing is higher than in US for certain brands and therefore I didn't buy anything. However, I liked visiting the Decathlon store, which is a discount sporting goods retailer and without any stores in the US. Overall I enjoyed the clean and relaxed atmosphere with enough benches and restrooms on each level. They have also USB ports and free WiFi for their customers. The Jumbo supermarket is a plus with a large variety of foods and reasonably priced.
Wonderful shopping area but many items are expensive even by U.S. dollar standards in June of 2025. Come ready to spend!
Ate at El Japones and Frida Kahlo. Pinku sake dish was excellent. Vibe and decor at Frida was brill.
This was a great experience to have while visiting Santiago. When we were there, it was $20 an adult, and we went during sunset on a Friday, and it was pretty busy. There was live music though, and space to see through all the windows. The cafe filled up before we got there. The topmost deck is open to the air, so dress appropriately, but the lower floor is air-conditioned. You exit through the 5th food court, which was immense!!!
Must go Landmark in Santiago. The tallest building in South America. There is huge and modern shopping mall at ground floor area.
Sky Costanera
5. Sky Costanera
4.6
(24013)
Scenic spot
Sights & Landmarks
Glass-walled observation deck set 300 m high in a skyscraper building & offering 360º panoramas.
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If you like altitude, I highly recommend! I was surprised at the low price and high-quality meal I received in the restaurant area of the top floor. Very enjoyable to sit there at a window table with this view and a delicious dinner. I will definitely repeat this experience next time I am in Santiago.
Fantastic! Built in 2015, and currently the tallest building in South America, I would say it’s well-worth it for the views! It’s 20,000 CLP for adults, and it’s one of the highlights of Santiago. A great place to admire the view, and capture some great photos! There’s also a nice bar/restaurant that can be good (otherwise, there are more food options in the main mall). There are bathrooms and a gift store, too. Can definitely recommend! By yourself, a date, or with your family and friends!!
A must-visit in Santiago! Check the weather forecast so you can really enjoy it and see the Andes. The staff is super friendly and helpful. On both floors of the viewpoint, there are decorated spots perfect for taking photos to post. Amazing 360º view of the city!
Gorgeous city views. One of a kind. They have a second floor where you feel the air from outside cause it's open roof but the windows are all like 40 feet tall, so you technically do feel like you're still indoors.
Sky Costanera is a must-visit landmark in Santiago. This impressive skyscraper features an observation deck at the very top, offering breathtaking 360° views of the city and the majestic Andes mountains. The experience is unforgettable, especially on clear days when the Cordillera de Los Andes looks spectacular in the background. It’s one of the best ways to truly appreciate the scale and beauty of Santiago.
Wow! An absolute must try! $20 USD to get to the top of the tower. It has two levels for viewing. One of them is open roof. There is also a restaurant that has amazing food and equally amazing prices. Try to get up there before sunset. As the sun sets and night moves in, the views continue to change and they just keep getting better. 10/10!
What a view and this part of town is a contrast to the older quarter of Santiago. The place is well run, no issues getting in and out. Everything was explained to us by an English speaking guide. Well organized. Loved the view from the top.
Obviously, the views are sensational with Santiago city set against the Andes. Nice restaurant, very well priced. Good selection of food and beverages. Worth a visit to the mall attached to it. Hard Rock Cafe is a bonus
Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago
6. Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago
4.7
(5506)
Catholic cathedral
Sights & Landmarks
Completed in 1800, this grand, ornate neoclassical cathedral is the seat of the city's archbishop.
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Beautiful cathedral. You can see relics of Pope John Paul 2 down on right hand side. You can walk down below alter to see tombs of archbishops.
Great cathedral by design and significance in Santiago! We visited during a mass service, so it was very solemn 🙏🙏
The Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago, located on Plaza de Armas, is the city’s most iconic church and the seat of the Catholic Archdiocese of Chile. Built in the 18th century in a neoclassical style, it impresses with its grand façade, ornate interior, and peaceful atmosphere. A must-visit landmark in Santiago’s historic center, perfect for history, culture, and architecture lovers.
A magnificent cathedral. So much detail and totally worth the visit. It's amazing how they built this giant building for Santiago or Saint James in English. The place outside the cathedral is also a nice place to walkabout and take in the sights.
Fabulous cathedral in centre of Santiago, one of the oldest buildings in the city, huge nave and altar with fantastically decorated floor and ceilings..
Free to enter and not exceptionally busy. Not the most spectacular church I’ve been in, and no English placard or caption translations (even via the QR code). In and out in 10.
Pretty cathedral in the city center of Santiago. Free entrance.
It is free to enter the church. It is so beautiful and many travelers visit to take remarkable photos. In the church, there are many statues, artifacts and relics. I recommend anyone looking for a beautiful place to visit in Santiago to stop by this lovely church.
La Chascona
7. La Chascona
4.6
(5140)
Museum
Specialty Museums
Home built to resemble a ship where Neruda lived with his third wife from 1955 to 1973, with tours.
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Amazing experience: the way they synchronized the audio with the spaces of the house was really intelligent. I recommend for tourists who want to know a little bit more about Pablo Neruda and his importance in Chile.
La Chascona was Pablo Neruda’s house in Santiago. Is located in Bellavista, few steps from the funicular. The entrance fee is CLP 9,500 (about $10 USD), credit cards accepted. The audio guide is essential to fully appreciate the house, at the end of the tour you need to return it. The firsr thing to do is view the short documentary in the video room. Inside the house, you’ll find an eclectic mix of art, maritime decor, and personal items. For people with mobility issues, Keep in mind, the house has stairs. La Chascona offers an interesting look into Neruda’s life and personality. The audio guide and documentary help you understand the experience better, so take your time and appreciate this part of Chilean history.
La Chascona offers a wonderful immersive experience into Pablo Neruda’s life. It’s well-organized, well-maintained, and easy to follow. The full visit takes about 1–2 hours, no more. Please note that photos are not allowed inside the house.
Great museum to visit while in Santiago, very near to the funicular so it's a good activity to pair with that. I don't usually use the museum audio guides anywhere I go but this was really informative and helpful so I recommend it.
It was very nice to be able to visit one of the homes of such a reknowned poet. Entrance was less than $10 per person and an interesting experience. Cost includes a very useful audioguide. The house was quaint and peculiar. There was a small room with a 10 or so minute video that described some of Neruda's back story. The house was broken up into three different structures connected through outdoor stairs, gardens, and other various foliage. It was interesting to see actual poems and writings of Neruda's with edits, etc. The houses were apportioned very nicely with artwork, etc. It also included a beautiful painting by Diego Rivera. The store at the end also had some beautiful artwork. Overall, it was a nice way to spend 30 to 60 minutes.
A very nice house museum. If you are into peeking into amazing peoples houses or Neruda in general this is a must. An audio tour device is available and is included in the price. The house is densely packed with parts of Neruda’s past and life. Like most places it is closed on Mondays.
Beautiful house, and the audio guide really helps. You can't take photos inside, only in the gardens, and you can buy Pablo nerudas works if you want after the tour. Very chill, no guide, you go through at your own pace.
La Chascona is a house in the Barrio Bellavista of Santiago, Chile, which was owned by Chilean poet Pablo Neruda. La Chascona reflects Neruda's quirky style, in particular his love of the sea, and is now a popular destination for tourists
Lastarria Café
8. Lastarria Café
4.5
(981)
Permanently Closed
Cafe
Pastry shop
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This place is somewhat hidden from view unless one is visiting the Museo de Artes Visuales, which is right next door. However, if you are looking for a place to take a rest from the buzz of the picturesque Barrio Lastarria, look no further. The food and coffee are both excellent. The atmosphere and the service are great as well.
……….What an awesome-lii kiff neighbor-hood to be casual-lii wondering about and allowing yourself to be overwhelmed by all the different kinds of expressionism. As is almost the order of the day in the whole of Santiago de Chile and its surroundings “GRAFFITI” in the form of drawings or writing’s on the walls and in passages-ways its everywhere even here in this barrio, coupled with street-artist expressing themselves and trying to sell you their own master-pieces, street-vendors selling their different kinds of wares be it cheap souvenirs, beauty products, woolen-scarfs, etc, etc. Beautiful church buildings with its own wall-murals very colourful and pret-tii. Then there are the many modern art galleries in the area where you can just waltz in and browse around and enjoy whether you are an art expert or just a novice. Also to be found around the streets are musician’s playing real instruments and even playing and making good musical sounds on home-made instruments. We even come upon some female belly dancers. The barrio comes high-lii recommended to be visited especial-lii when you are hungry as there are so many different bars, cafes and restaurants to grab a bite from and the best ice cream-parlour is also in the area……………
Cheese cake ok, girl that served us was a bit rude
The food and coffee are very good, but because of the lacking service I have to give it 2 stars. While I was working in the coffeeshop the waiter came to me and told me that I have to sit outside as I had been working inside for more than 2 hours. I understand that they don't want people to stay inside too long, but when I asked him if I could sit inside longer if I bought more food and a coffee he refused and still told me to sit outside. This was very strange to me as there were still some unoccupied tables inside. So, don't come here if you want to work for a long time. They will tell you to leave even when you're a good paying customer.
Ordered brunch, the egg on the avocado toast was not cooked and half of the whites were runny and inedible. The avocado also tasted bitter and the bread stale. Extremely disappointed with the overall experience especially given how expensive it was. Avoid.
Good place, a bit too cold. The sandwich bread wasn't too fresh. The filtered coffee, on the other hand, was amazing. Service was ok. On a scale to five: Place **** Food ** Coffee **** Service *** Price $$$
Great food and very friendly staff. The little plaza it is in is has a nice atmosphere, too. I could sit there for hours with some hot chocolate and a book.
It's become quite the fashionable place to be. It can even be hard to walk when there's a show on. Be careful with your belongings, there are lots of pickpockets. The booksellers have always got some Spanish philosophy books. Near Plaza Italia-Dignidad, so watch out for protests, especially Friday afternoons.
La Moneda Palace
9. La Moneda Palace
4.5
(2638)
State government office
Sights & Landmarks
Elegant building dating from 1805 that houses the office of Chile's president; tours offered.
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This is a must visit in Santiago. It is the offices of the President of Chile. It is the site of the military coup in 1973. It’s the home of their democratic government today and in the past. They do a change of guard every two days at 10:00 AM. That is a very splendid event to watch. Go under the Moneda for some stunning art exhibitions, a snack, and clean bathrooms. The ceremony starts at the back of the Moneda and marches around to the front where most of the ceremony occurs. Get there a little early to get a good viewing spot. If you look closely you can still find where they repaired bullet holes on the palace. There several other spectacular government structures in the
The government seat of power, worth visiting. There is a cultural center right below the ground level, a pleasant surprise for tourists and locals alike.
Palacio de La Moneda is a majestic landmark in Santiago, Chile, serving as the presidential palace. Its neoclassical architecture and cultural significance make it a must-see. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, nearby museums, and the impressive changing of the guard ceremony.
Super fun tourist spot, be sure to go on a morning when they change the guard!
Saw the changing of the guards today. It’s every second day, 10am and goes for 30mins. The crowd around the perimeter was only one deep, it would be harder to see anything if it was busier.
Watched the change of guard at the palace today. Quite impressive.
So fun watching the changing of the guard. It’s on at 10 on odd days in months with an odd amount of days, and even dates on others.
Hoped to be able to tour the inside, but they had pretty tight security around the building and not allowing tourists to even go inside of the perimeter fence that was set up. Took a few pictures from the memorial plaza/park area adjacent to the palace. This building functions as a government/state building and houses many offices and meeting rooms for high ranking government officials in the Chilean government. A nice display and many flags and memorials to past leadership are also found on the ground and around the area. This is one of the key buildings you'll find on many of the Chilean souvenirs. It's a significant historical landmark.
MosaiCafé Parque Araucano
10. MosaiCafé Parque Araucano
3.9
(845)
Permanently Closed
Restaurant
Nature & Parks
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Very good food, for all tastes. In the night operates as discotec. Good ambient.
It took more than 20 minutes for a waiter to take my order. When I asked for the bill they tried to overcharge me, by disrespecting the Happy Hour price.
Good music, good vibe, not too many liquor/beer brands to pick from, and you had to make a line to get the drinks and pay for them. They should hire more people but yeah you can have a good time with friends dancing, drinking.. 4 stars
it is very spacious, we organized a Happy Hour there. I was not impressed with the quality of the finger food they offered.
Low quality of food and service absolutely should be improved.
Decent drinks and finger food
The service was just ok
Museum of Memory & Human Rights
11. Museum of Memory & Human Rights
4.7
(13764)
Local history museum
Museums
Modern museum commemorating the victims of human rights violations committed from 1973 to 1990.
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Moving, powerful and important. Unapologetic in its refusal to forget the cruelties that happened under Pinochet. The museum is thorough and meticulous, with every shred of evidence documented and as much information on every victim as possible. As others have said, some of the information is in Spanish (and only in Spanish) - but that also reflects the incredible volume of information there. There is an additional library and archive on the bottom floor, which was closed when we visited. The museum is free to enter, making it accessible for all, which again feels an important statement. However, you can leave a donation or pay 5,000 for an audio guide (they have them in English, which can help bridge the gap for non-Spanish speakers). Highly recommend. Very easy to reach by metro.
This is one of the most powerful museums I’ve ever been to. It’s incredibly well-curated and gives a deep look into Chile’s dictatorship history. Heavy but important. A must if you’re visiting Santiago.
It’s an interesting overview of the Pinochet dictatorship period in Chile, a must see to understand more about the history of this country. The visit is also free and there’s a cute coffee shop at the entrance.
Nice museum with beautiful architecture. Museum about human rights. Immersive experience about 1973 military coup against the president who try to turn country in to communism.
I expected more... Displays of Chilean history, but without any context:( You need to know the history (or Google it) to understand fully. Things get better with display of 1988 referendum.... That should be the way for 1973 explanations...!!!
This place is a lot to take in, and much of it the opposite of uplifting. But that's not the reason for my three-star review (you can't blame the museum for the grim history it exhibits). The "flow" of the museum is difficult to discern and follow. It's not linear; instead more like a kaleidoscope of violence and attempts to document, uncover and record it. As it is, it's worth a visit. We need to remember our history in order to know what's possible in the future (good and bad). Just, it could be better organized, curated, and made accessible.
Great museum with the entrance from the metro station. What we see today in the world is history repeating itself. With dictators that run some of the countries. Would appreciate it if they had more labels in English. It's free to enter, donations for the commentary in English.
A wonderful experience. Very educational. There is a free app and audio guide in English BUT I had limited connectivity in the museum so recommend searching for the MMDH app in your App Store and listening when you have Wi-Fi
Santiago Central Market
12. Santiago Central Market
4.2
(49584)
Market
Shopping
Energetic 1800s market known for its fresh seafood vendors & casual cafes serving fish specialties.
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A very busy and bustling fresh market selling lots of fresh fish and seafood, fruits. But there’s also a lot of known restaurants that serve seafood at the very reasonable price. The competition is intense. Each one is trying to entice the passerby to eat at their restaurant. A nice place to just watch, walk around. A lot of fun if fresh fish smell doesn’t bother you
Bustling central market with plenty of fresh produce and seafood stalls. The surrounding restaurants clearly cater to tourists, and some of the sales staff can be quite pushy when trying to get you in. Still, it’s a lively spot to grab a cold beer and some snacks while soaking in the atmosphere.
There was an abundance of fresh seafood for selection, we ordered abalone, King Crab, Macha-Chilean razor clams, scallops, and more. The menu was in Spanish, and my wife used picture menus and body language to communicate with the waitress. We were quite satisfied with our meal. Then, while walking around the market, my wife's wallet was stolen without her awareness. The wallet contained some cash, and several credit cards. We then had to scramble to report the theft, which was a quite disappointing experience.
Its a wet market with restaurants inside. The wet market is a bit "wet". There a lot of waiters who are waiting to convince you to go their restaurant.
There are plenty of restaurants to try some fresh seafood.
Fantastic environment to get a feel of the local life. Saw some very talented musicians busking Elvis songs 😄 I loved this place and the restaurants are great but some are tourist focused places with expensive prices so be weary of where you decide to eat.
Great sights, pretty fishy smelling, partner not a fan but I liked the authentic feel. The restaurant promoters were quite aggressive but good natured. A good experience and a good reflection of the wonderful culture Santiago offers.
YOU WILL BE MUGGED! DO NOT GO NEAR THE BRIDGE! WE WERE SURROUNDED AND MUGGED BY NO LESS THAN 17 PEOPLE HERE BY THE BRIDGE! IN BROAD DAYLIGHT AT 1:30PM. READ THE BAD REVIEWS!!! There were 3 of us and there were just too many people involved, it was literally insane. We are extremely experienced travelers and aware of the typical snatch and grab and pickpockets but this was on a whole other level. We are very physically capable and we did chase the guy that ended up with my purse but the entire crowd "mob" came against us trying to trip my husband, kicking him and trying to pull his pack off and steal his phone while he ran after the guy. I got blocked by the mob and had to curl up on the street like a hedgehog to keep men from wrestling my phone away. I bit one of them. They were trying to pull my mom's fanny pack off and she punched one. They only got my purse and had to aggressively wrestle it away from me and break it to get it. This was far beyond a snatch and grab. THIS PLACE IS A DEN OF THIEVES!!! I've been to 55 countries and have never seen anything like it. The authorities are aware of this and do nothing!! Rampant corruption here!!! Posting photos I made for visibility because all the NUMEROUS reviews that mention being robbed are not very visible. On another note, the fish market itself was fine and the chupe was great! We came back inside here to cancel credit cards in a "safer" place. Might not be great if you aren't used to being harassed by vendors though, but if you are experienced its not too bad really. On a scale of 0 to Egypt I'd give it about a 6/7 as far as vendor harassment goes, not too bad, very manageable. But totally skippable and not worth getting MUGGED for sure. Wasn't a very good market to be labeled a "central market" and its only fish.
Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art
13. Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art
4.7
(10112)
Ethnographic museum
Museums
Elegant museum housed in an 1805 building & featuring exhibits of pre-Columbian artworks & a shop.
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Definitely one of the best museums in Santiago. Here, you can truly feel the essence of Chile’s native peoples, especially the Mapuche. The collection includes very ancient and priceless artworks, all incredibly original. The exhibits are well divided and organized. On top of that, you can also see the impressive Chemamülles sculptures up close. Absolutely worth a visit! Some people might not give it five stars simply because they’re not enthusiasts of this kind of art. But for those who love culture, anthropology, or prehistoric art, it’s a rare opportunity to see works that date back as far as 2,000 years before Christ.
What an absolutely beautiful museum with an intense and comprehensive collection on display. The curators have been very thoughtful in preparing the collection and it is complemented perfectly for tourists with all descriptions in English. I loved it so much, I had to buy a book on 14,000 years of Chilean history to take home with me
This is the best place to learn and understand Chilean history and roots of their culture. Most artifacts are made of clay, some of them are very beautiful and artistic even like modern artifacts. It's interesting to learn that they have warrior level as social status at some point in the history.
The entrance is expensive for a museum, CP12000 for an adult. Could do with more lighting as it is hard to read the labels for the displays. That said, it houses a great collection of artifects and in good condition.
Fantastic museum. Not too big. Has explanations in English. Start in basement. Need to pay to put backpack in locker so have change. Bring your reading glasses if you have trouble reading small print. The basement exhibit is pretty dark!
Hi my name is Daniela, this musuem is breathtaking. If you are in Santiago, this is a MUST!
I loved this place and spent a couple of hours here. Incredible artifacts and history information provided, with translations in English as well. Although the entrance price is expensive at slightly less than £10, it’s so worth it. Photos allowed and I took a million. Not crowded.
Such lovely historic building and lovely piece of art that has been done by our ancestors ages ago. Rich in culture and historical facts about aboriginal communities
Plaza de Armas de Santiago
14. Plaza de Armas de Santiago
4.2
(81599)
Park
Sights & Landmarks
Central urban square showcasing a large range of statues & surrounded by stately buildings.
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Pretty much a must-see. The downtown area in Santiago is so incredibly clean. Sure you have to keep an eye on your items, but I not once felt unsafe. Lots of policemen and people are very polite. The places to eat are expensive in the area so you need to research where the locals go.
The surrounding architecture and sculptures document Chile's significant modern history. As controversial political figure, Salvador Allende and Augusto Pinochet were two political leaders who profoundly influenced Chile from 1970 to 2000. From Marxist socialism to military dictatorship, Chilean suffered consequences by the political turmoil. As a tourist, I am speechless.
Beautiful buildings all around the square and and a nice place to visit. I went on a Sunday and it wasn't too busy but I did feel a bit uncomfortable with the amount of lone men wandering around the trees in the square... but if you keep your bag close to you and be aware of your surroundings you should be fine.
It's interesting because this is the only Plaza De Armas I have seen in the Spanish Empire that is just covered in so many trees. Almost all of it was in the shade. However, it does seem a little shady. Some sketchy people around, and people smoking on the STGO sign.
Nice crowded place, city center of Santiago.
The main Santiago's square, plaza de Armas a point that you cannot miss in your route, founded in 1541 is the main point in the city, you can visit the historical national museum for free, the cathedral, Museo casa colorada, plus you can eat and try the Chilean typical hot dog called Italiano. Must to do tourist point.
It is very safe and beautiful. I don't understand why people say it isn't. Definitely worth your time. There is a free museum and free toilets at the tourist center.
It's free. There are some homeless there. Typically some vendors and an open market vibe
Parque Bicentenario de Cerrillos
15. Parque Bicentenario de Cerrillos
4.4
(10333)
Park
Nature & Parks
Elongated green space with playgrounds, picnic tables & an artificial lake for kayaking.
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It was HUGE but the entrance was not really well signed, so it was confusing at the beginning. It has excercise spot, banks and table for picnics
Parque Cerrillos is an outstanding venue, offering everything needed for a top-tier event experience. Its location is unbeatable, with direct access to Cerrillos Metro Station, making it super convenient to get there from anywhere in Santiago. Whether you're attending something like Lollapalooza Chile or any other event, this park has it all. The park is spacious, with multiple performance stages, VIP areas, and incredible sound & light setups that make every event feel like a top-tier experience. The amenities are top-notch — plenty of food options, clean restrooms, and ample parking. Plus, the green spaces offer a perfect spot to relax during breaks. The combination of easy transportation access, modern facilities, and attention to detail makes Parque Cerrillos the perfect choice for major events and festivals. I can't recommend this place enough for both event-goers and anyone looking for a well-designed, easily accessible park.
Huge outdoor park with lots of activities to do. Great for a Sunday afternoon walk and barbeque.
Ju ta club gelly coolray
This unnamed sculpture is hidden in the middle of the city, making a challenge for art museums. From an unnknown artist , this unique sculpture is standing as a loyal representative of the planned international discussion on environment, made before the conference. Due to its verticallity, in a clear sky day, each of the bars are making a natural clock where the shade stamps clear seconds, minutes and hours in an elliptical Kepler fashion. The angle has been reached with special lens. Best time for visiting and amaze over the clock, early morning, 7 to 9 AM ! Except Mondays !
It's a lovely park. Great for families to go and stretch your legs. You can park your car, go by bike or just walk. Only on the 18th of September, a fair is put up.
Really beauty full and high place with lot of green areas. Perfect to have a picnic, take your dog to take a dump (bring a doodoo bag)
La Moneda Cultural Center
16. La Moneda Cultural Center
4.6
(16714)
Cultural center
Museums
Modern cultural center with rotating art exhibitions & film screenings, plus dining & shopping.
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Nice little museum with wonderful art. Insane to think you are under a government house.
An excellent pleasant surprise of visiting this cultural center, i spent almost one and a half hours there with photographic exhibit and oil paintings collected by the central bank of Chile.
Great cultural center. Not very crowded in the mornings. Some of the exhibitions are free. It is very family friendly. Photos are permitted in most places. I would recommend going to exhibitions related to Chilean culture.
There were 4 different small exhibitions in different levels of this huge underground building when we visited. My favorites were the Danish children's book illustrations showing how they have evolved over the decades and the photography exhibit of women football fans from South America and their various stories. Very moving or inspiring in many cases. Some additional explanations in English would have been nice, but we are in Chile, so that isn't a criticism.
The inside looks really nice but I thought the exhibits were pretty boring and it didn’t help that there was absolutely no English anywhere. There are 6 exhibits total and 4 of them are free with 2 requiring a paid ticket.
Great space to appreciate local culture and art. There are a couple of stores with excellent although expensive items. Entry is free but you need to reserve your ticket in advance. Staff can be rude at times but that's just another sample of the Chilean culture.
Fantastic Cultural center that is surprisingly hidden as it’s underneath the massive open space plaza above. There’s 2 small stairwells at either end which lead down underneath to the 2 story underground mall like area where many booths are dedicated as mini museums and others are gift shops showcasing local artwork and goods. Really enjoyed the art exhibits as they were showcasing a lot of unique pieces and many of them by less well known local artists that are only possible to be seen in Chile. There’s even a small theater although I did not get to personally experience it due to time constraints. You don’t have to budget too much time here but since everything here is free, feel free to spend as little or as much time as you would like.
.....What a stunning building back to back with the La Moneda Palace (the state-lii office of the President) where the entrance to the building is downstairs and you have to walk down a ramp to get there! It’s no dull walk because the first sighting to greet you is the water cascading down the full length of the ramps width coming from the roof-top fountain indeed a pleasant watery sound and sight. Then you are greeted by the neat signage and the big glass entrance. The level on which you arrive give you the impression of a super large atrium with smaller galleries on either side! The design of this building seems to be around “Ramps” again to get downstairs you walk down the ramps on either side. Looking down you will see a large area with comfortable simple-settees where you can sit and enjoy the shadow-video shows playing on the walls. Downstairs there are the Cinemas, a nice size restaurant, lots of smaller shops selling books, jewelry and artwork. The restroom facilities are nice and clean. It is free to gain access to this beautiful exhibition center and it is a very worthwhile experience to visit here!.....

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