Santiago Metropolitan Region Holidays

Santiago Metropolitan Region

Stroll down preserved colonial streets, visit museums and explore the surrounding mountains and vineyards of the capital city and pulsing heart of Chile.

The Santiago Metropolitan Region encompasses the urban sprawl of Chile’s capital, the grand city of Santiago. Radiating out from a historic colonial core, the Santiago Metropolitan Region reaches up from a picturesque valley into the foothills of the Andes and the Cordillera range. Discover Chile’s largest city, which is decorated with neoclassical architecture, stunning monuments and ornate palaces. From snow-capped Andean peaks to Pacific Ocean beaches and fertile vineyards, the Santiago Metropolitan Region is close to a diverse range of magnificent Chilean landscapes.

Begin your exploration of the region by getting to know its urban heart, Santiago. This political and cultural centre is renowned for its museums, restaurants, nightlife and events. Hike or catch the cable car to the hilltop Parque Metropolitano (Cerro San Cristóbal) and look out over the city all the way to the Andes. Explore the Plaza de Armas to see the breathtaking neoclassical Catedral Metropolitana. Check out local food specialties at the historic Mercado Central or stroll down the charming pedestrianized streets of Santiago Centro. Compare old with new at Cerro Santa Lucia, a pretty hilltop park that looks out over a cityscape dominated by the enormous Sky Costanera tower.

Experience some of the region’s rich cultural heritage at the Centro Cultural Gabriela Mistral, the Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art or the Centro Cultural Palacio de la Moneda, which is located in the magnificent presidential palace. In the evening, be sure to check out some of the pulsing jazz clubs and performing arts theatres strewn throughout the city sprawl.

Venture into the wider region to make the most of Santiago’s awe-inspiring surroundings. Popular daytrips include mountain climbing at Cerro Provincia or exploring nearby ski resorts, such as Portillo, to carve up fresh powder in the Andes. Head west to hit the beaches at Viña del Mar or hike to the thermal springs in Rancagua.

Reach the Santiago Metropolitan Region via the city’s international airport, which is a short distance northwest of downtown Santiago. You can also reach the city by bus from Mendoza and San Juan in Argentina. Get around the city and its surrounds via metro and public bus, or rent a car to explore the region at your own pace.