Easily accessible on foot, the city is one of South America’s most attractive capitals.
Santiago is Chile’s sophisticated capital, which 40% of the country’s population call home. Easily accessible on foot, the city is one of South America’s most attractive capitals and a few nights here will afford the chance to enjoy its many top-class restaurants, fascinating museums, unusual architecture and lovely parks.
Peered over by the snowy peaks of the Andes, the city sits between the mountains and the coast, just two hours’ drive from Valparaiso, a coastal city which can easily be visited on a day trip. Modern influences have spurred regeneration in a number of its attractive suburbs, where bars and chic restaurants have a European feel and attract a stylish crowd in the evenings.
The European influence trickles over into its social scene, as locals and travellers alike can be found sipping potent Pisco Sour cocktails in rooftop bars or taking part in the city’s frequent fiestas: from film fêtes to literary festivals. Santiago’s Mediterranean climate is ideal for exploring, with long, balmy days segueing into cool nights; however, the city is also just a short drive to the Andean ski resorts of Valle Nevado and Portillo, demonstrating how versatile Chilean holidays can be.
Santiago is beautiful and entertaining whatever the season, with local draught beer to drink, cafés in Barrio Italia in which to sip coffee and the vibrant nightlife of Bellavista to enjoy.
Mari
Travel Specialist
Where to go in Chile
Chile travel information
- Time zone: -3 GMT
- Flight time: 15-17 hours
- Recommended airlines: British Airways, Air France, Delta, United
- Currency: Chilean Peso
- Tipping guideline: 10% of total bill
- Health considerations: There is a risk of altitude illness when travelling to destinations of 2,500m or higher.
- Capital: Santiago
- Population: 1.96588e+007
- National languages: Spanish
- Electricity and plugs: Type C and Type L, 220 V, 50 Hz
- Mobile phone coverage: Excellent
- UK passport visa requirements: You don't need a visa for Chile if you have a British passport - for a maximum of 90 days
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