COSMOPOLITAN CAPITAL
Backed by snowy Andean mountains, Chile鈥檚 capital offers you an eclectic mix of historic buildings and sparkling skyscrapers, superb museums and scenic viewpoints. Then, if you have a taste for fine wines, you can venture into the surrounding winelands.
Brimming with galleries, fabulous eateries and stylish hotels, there鈥檚 more to this lively metropolis than first meets the eye.
You can really get under the skin of Santiago by exploring its barrios on foot. Start in Plaza de Armas, the grand heart of the city鈥檚 old colonial quarter, before wandering over to artsy Lastarria or trendy Bellavista where you鈥檒l find plentiful museums, cocktail bars and trendy restaurants serving fusion Chilean, Italian and Asian fare.
For unsurpassed views over the city, head to upmarket Providencia where you can hike (or ride the cable car) up to the summit of forested San Crist贸bal Hill. A must for any visitor!
The beauty of Santiago also lies in its proximity to the renowned wine regions of the Central Valley. Maipo Valley is the closest, and makes for a great day trip away from the hustle and bustle.
