Downtown Santiago Travel Guide
Santiago
Visit Downtown Santiago
Popular places to visit
Palacio de la Moneda
Visit the courtyards of this magnificent neoclassical palace, watch the changing of the guard ceremony and enjoy contemporary and visual art exhibitions.
Plaza de Armas
This historic central square is home to magnificent works of architecture, museums and a nice blend of city workers, street performers and artisans.
Santa Lucia Hill
Climb the elegant stairs to the top of this central hill to enjoy panoramic views of Santiago and admire the ornate fountains, flower displays and amphitheater.
Lastarria District
During your trip to Santiago, you can do some window-shopping at Lastarria District. While in this trendy area, you can savour the restaurants and bars.
Mercado Central
Step inside this grand 19th-century marketplace to experience the sights and smells of fresh food stands and to sample delicious plates of fish and seafood.
University of Chile
Look around the historical buildings of Chile’s principal university for a glimpse into the lives of the local students and researchers.
Things to do
Santiago: 1-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus and Cable Car Ticket
Santiago: Cajon del Maipo Termas Colina Trip
Santiago: Cajon del Maipo & Embalse El Yeso Trip with Picnic
The best walking tour in Santiago de Chile
Santiago: Viña Del Mar, Valparaiso, Casablanca & Reñaca Tour
Santiago: Andes Mountains Sunset and Valle Nevado & Picnic
Top hotels in Downtown Santiago
Almacruz Hotel y Centro de Convenciones
Room was very spacious and great aircon. Staff were lovely and we enjoyed our time immensely by the pool on the sun. Great breakfast as well. Maybe a bit on the dates side and the gym was tiny with only the treadmill working.
Reviewed on 11 Jan 2026
RQ Santiago
One of the greatest locations in the city ! Close to historical district and plenty of shopping banks and exchanges with in a gated court yard in the heart of the financial district Friendly people Speak poco English .. lol ( English is spoken a littke !
Reviewed on 6 Jan 2026
Hotel Casa Zañartu
Hotel close to Metro and downtown only a few blocks away. Staff helpful throughout the stay. Received room on ground floor next to the courtyard, which meant noise till 9pm and also no window in room. Bathroom had a faulty toilet which would constantly flush, Shower drained really slowly. Breakfast ...
Reviewed on 6 Jan 2026
Hotel Plaza San Francisco
Great location in an old world hotel that was clean and comfortable. The staff was excellent. We had a wonderful stay.
Reviewed on 12 Jan 2026
Lastarria Hotel & Aparts
The room is very clean. Super location. Professional staff
Reviewed on 9 Jan 2026
Hotel HW Libertad
Look for High Wellness HW name on 2828 Romero Street. Libertad name is not visible at street level. Get on elevator on ground floor go to third floor (Button 3 in elevator needs label indicating Hotel). Hotel check-in lobby is on third floor.
Reviewed on 16 Dec 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Downtown Santiago
Bellas Artes
Museums, coffee shops and historical sites are just a few things travellers like about Bellas Artes. Sights like Museo Arte de Luz and National Archive are spots to explore, and you can get around the greater Santiago area at Bellas Artes Station.
Lastarria
Travellers come to Lastarria for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Lastarria District and Gabriela Mistral Cultural Center while you're in town.
Barrio Italia
Barrio Italia is well liked for its restaurants, and you can visit sights like Teatro Universidad de Chile and Plaza Baquedano if you have time to explore the area.
Bellavista
Bellavista is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Patio Bellavista and Santiago Metropolitan Park while you're in town.
Estación Central
While you're strolling through Estación Central, you may want to check out the gardens and live music. If you want to see more of the area, hop on the metro at Ecuador Station or Las Rejas Station.
Independencia
Well liked for its museums and parks, Independencia is worth a visit. Check out the variety of things to see and do like Hipodromo Chile and Museo Municipal de Arte Moderno, and jump on the metro at Plaza Chacabuco Station to get around the city.
