Santiago, a city cradled by the majestic Andes, seamlessly blends the old with the new. Explore the grandeur of La Moneda Palace, immerse yourself in the vibrant street art, and ascend Cerro San Cristóbal for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and its mountainous backdrop. Indulge in the freshest seafood at bustling markets, and savor the slow pace of life in charming alleyway cafes.
🔷Recommended Attractions:
🔹 Plaza de Armas (Figure 2)
The historical heart of the city, surrounded by iconic landmarks such as the Cathedral and the National Historical Museum, where you can delve into Chile’s rich past.
🔹 Metropolitan Cathedral (Catedral Metropolitana) (Figure 3)
Located in Plaza de Armas, this church boasts elegant and historic architecture, making it a must-visit for any history enthusiast.
🔹 Central Post Office (Correo Central de Santiago) (Figures 4-5)
With its classically elegant facade, the Central Post Office also hosts historical exhibitions that trace the development of Chilean postal services. You can even buy postcards and stamps; I picked up some from Easter Island and was thrilled!
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🔹 Central Market (Mercado Central)
A visit here is highly recommended, though be prepared for slightly higher prices. The market is a feast for the senses, offering a wide array of fresh seafood and local flavors.
🔹 Cerro San Cristóbal (Figure 6)
Ride the cable car to the summit for an unparalleled view of Santiago.
At the top, you’ll find a statue of the Virgin, a symbol of the city, and if you time it right, you can witness a stunning sunset.
🔹 Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art (Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino) (Figures 7-10) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Foreigner ticket price: 10,000 pesos 😭
One of Chile’s most significant museums, dedicated to the preservation and display of indigenous American art and history.
Housed in a neoclassical building that once served as the Royal Court of Santiago, the museum is a treasure trove of cultural heritage.
🔹 Pueblito Los Dominicos (Figures 11-16) 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
A haven for lovers of Chilean handicrafts, this charming spot offers a wide variety of high-quality goods, including ceramics, textiles, jewelry, wood carvings, leather goods, and copperware.
While the items are exquisite, they come with a hefty price tag and are non-negotiable.
🔶Transport Experience:
Uber is incredibly convenient, though traffic can get congested after 6 PM. The metro system is modern and distinctive, but you’ll need to purchase a rechargeable card first, which can be shared among multiple people.
🔷Food Recommendations:
1️⃣ Casa las Cujas 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 A paradise for seafood aficionados! The seafood platter is a masterpiece (Figure 18), and the salmon sashimi is the thickest I’ve ever tasted! The only drawback is the lack of wasabi. Average cost per person: ¥280
2️⃣ La Tasca de Altamar Sea urchin lovers, rejoice! Enjoy a bowl of sea urchin for over ¥100! 🤩 The butter-baked scallops are equally delightful and not to be missed.
