Outings and excursions · Santiago

Historic downtown Santiago on foot

Photos: Sfs90 / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

From La Moneda to the Plaza de Armas, the Mercado Central, Santa Lucía hill and the Lastarria neighbourhood: a one-day walk.

Photo: Sfs90, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

Downtown Santiago packs almost five centuries of history into a few blocks. It is easy to explore on foot in a day, with stops to eat and to climb a hill with city views.

La Moneda

Start at the Palacio de La Moneda, the seat of government. If it coincides with your visit, the changing of the guard is one of the city's most colourful rituals.

Plaza de Armas

A few blocks north is the Plaza de Armas, where Pedro de Valdivia founded the city on 12 February 1541. It is surrounded by the neoclassical Cathedral, the Post Office building, the National History Museum and the City Hall.

Mercado Central

Heading towards the Mapocho river, the Mercado Central is the place to try Chilean fish and seafood for lunch.

Santa Lucía hill and Lastarria

In the afternoon, climb Cerro Santa Lucía, a park with stairways, terraces and lookouts over downtown. Back down, the Lastarria neighbourhood is the place to end the day among cafés, bookshops and art galleries.

Tips

  • Days and times for the changing of the guard and La Moneda visits vary: check in advance.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.

Plan your trip

See alsoHotels and lodging in Santiago

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