West and South Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, hike and bike routes, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, safety and health tips, transportation and logistics options, and nearby destinations and excursions in West and South, Santiago de Chile.


Introduction to West and South

Santiago de Chile, the vibrant capital city of Chile, offers a rich mix of culture, history, natural beauty, and outdoor activities that cater to all types of travelers. The western and southern regions of Santiago de Chile are particularly popular among visitors due to the unique blend of natural attractions and cultural heritage. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore the best places to visit, things to do, hike and bike routes, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, safety and health tips, transportation and logistics options, and nearby destinations and excursions in West and South, Santiago de Chile.

List of Places to Visit in West and South

  • La Moneda Palace Cultural Center
  • Plaza de Armas
  • National Museum of Fine Arts
  • San Cristóbal Hill
  • Parque Bicentenario
  • Bellavista Neighborhood
  • Barrio Italia
  • Santiago Metropolitan Park
  • Cajón del Maipo
  • Santa Rita Vineyard

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

La Moneda Palace Cultural Center is a must-visit cultural attraction that showcases the rich history and culture of Chile. The palace, built in the 1700s, served as the presidential palace until 1958 and is now a cultural center that features exhibitions, concerts, and theatrical performances.

Plaza de Armas is the central square and heart of Santiago de Chile. The square is surrounded by historical buildings, including the Metropolitan Cathedral, the National History Museum, and the Central Post Office.

The National Museum of Fine Arts features an extensive collection of Chilean and international art from the 19th century to the present day. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events.

Natural Attractions of West and South: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

San Cristóbal Hill is one of the top natural attractions in Santiago de Chile, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Visitors can hike, bike, or take a funicular to the top of the hill.

Parque Bicentenario is a beautiful park located on the edge of Santiago’s financial district. The park features a large lake, numerous bike paths, playgrounds, and picnic areas.

Bellavista is a vibrant neighborhood that is famous for its colorful street art, bohemian atmosphere, and lively nightlife. Visitors can explore the neighborhood’s numerous art galleries, restaurants, and bars.

Hiking/Biking Routes of West and South

Santiago Metropolitan Park is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering miles of hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and scenic viewpoints. The park’s most famous hiking trail is the Cerro Manquehue, which offers stunning views of the city and the Andes Mountains.

Cajón del Maipo is a picturesque canyon located 50 km south of Santiago that offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and rafting.

Best Things to Do in West and South: Activities and Tours

Half-day wine tours to Santa Rita Vineyard are a popular activity among wine lovers. Visitors can explore the vineyard, learn about the wine-making process, and taste some of the finest wines produced in Chile.

Week-Long Itinerary for West and South

Day 1 La Moneda Palace Cultural Center, Plaza de Armas, National Museum of Fine Arts
Day 2 San Cristóbal Hill, Parque Bicentenario
Day 3 Bellavista Neighborhood, Barrio Italia
Day 4 Santiago Metropolitan Park
Day 5 Cajón del Maipo
Day 6 Santa Rita Vineyard
Day 7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of West and South

Must-Try Dishes

Chilean cuisine is a unique blend of Spanish, indigenous, and other Latin American influences. Some of the must-try dishes in Santiago de Chile are Empanadas, Pastel de Choclo, Churrasco, and Completo.

Local Beverages

Chile is famous for its wine production, and visitors can enjoy some of the finest wines at local wineries and wine bars. Pisco, a grape-based brandy, is another popular local beverage, and Chilean beer is also worth a try.

Where to Stay in West and South: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Santiago de Chile offers a variety of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and travel styles. Some of the top hotels in West and South include Noi Vitacura, Hotel CasaReal, and InterContinental Santiago. Hostels and guesthouses, such as Casa Mosaico and Hostal Providencia, offer affordable yet comfortable accommodation options.

What to Buy in West and South: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors can buy a variety of souvenirs and local products in West and South, including Chilean wine, Pisco, handicrafts, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of West and South

Chileans are known for their warm hospitality and friendly nature, and visitors to West and South can expect to be welcomed with open arms. Chilean culture is also deeply rooted in music, dance, and art, and visitors can experience these cultural expressions throughout their trip.

Best Time to Visit West and South

The best time to visit West and South in Santiago de Chile is during the fall (March-May) and spring (September-November) seasons when the weather is mild, and the crowds are relatively lower.

Do’s and Don’ts of West and South

Do:

  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases.
  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Take a free walking tour to get introduced to the local culture and history.

Don’t:

  • Be disrespectful to the locals or their customs.
  • Leave your valuables unattended.
  • Rely on credit cards for all transactions.

Safety and Health

Safety in West and South

Santiago de Chile is relatively safe for travelers, but visitors should take the usual precautions, such as avoiding dark alleys and shady neighborhoods.

Health in West and South

Visitors should drink bottled water and avoid street food to prevent stomach problems. It is also recommended to get a travel insurance policy that covers medical expenses and emergency evacuation.

Getting to West and South: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can reach West and South in Santiago de Chile by flight, bus, or car. The nearest airport is the Santiago International Airport, which is located around 25 km from the city center. Visitors can also take a bus from Santiago to various destinations in West and South.

Airports Near West and South

  • Santiago International Airport

Bus Stations Near West and South

  • Santiago Bus Terminal

Other Options

  • Car rental services

How to Get Around in West and South

Visitors can explore West and South in Santiago de Chile by taking public transportation, including bus, subway, or taxis. Biking and walking are also popular options.

Where to Go Next from West and South: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some of the nearby destinations and excursions from West and South in Santiago de Chile include Valparaiso, Vina del Mar, Isla Negra, and Colchagua Valley.

Conclusion

West and South in Santiago de Chile offer a diverse mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and culinary delights that cater to all types of travelers. Whether you want to explore the city’s historical landmarks or hike through the Andes Mountains, West and South in Santiago de Chile has something exciting for everyone.