Santiago – The stunning gateway to Chile

Posted March 31, 2025

A Gateway to Chile
Exploring the Culture, Cuisine, and Natural Beauty of Santiago & Beyond

South America has a magnetic pull—its deep history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cultures create an irresistible allure. After a memorable journey through Argentina, we turned our sights to its neighbour, Chile, a country famed for its world-class wines, dramatic geography, and dynamic cities. With Santiago as our base, we set out to explore the heart of Central Chile, venturing from bustling urban streets to the untamed Pacific coast and the winding roads of the Andes.

Santiago: A City of Contrasts

Santiago seamlessly blends history with modernity. The city’s stunning backdrop—the towering Andes—frames a metropolis where colonial plazas meet futuristic skyscrapers. We checked in at a downtown hotel and began our journey at San Cristóbal Hill, a must-visit viewpoint offering panoramic views of the city. Below it, the Bellavista neighbourhood buzzes with street art, cafés, and nightlife.

Santiago’s historic center is rich with cultural landmarks, from the Mercado Central’s fresh seafood stalls to Plaza de Armas and La Moneda Palace. For art lovers, the Museum of Memory and Human Rights offers a poignant look at Chile’s past, while the Chilean National Museum of Fine Arts showcases local talent. We ended the day in Lastarria, Santiago’s artsy district lined with boutique shops and lively cafés.

Culinary Delights

Santiago’s food scene is a fusion of tradition and innovation. From ceviche and pastel de choclo (a corn-based pie) at the Mercado Central to world-class dining in the sleek districts of Las Condes and Vitacura, there’s something for every palate. And, of course, no meal is complete without a glass of Chilean wine.

Day Trips from Santiago

The Andes Adventure – Laguna Del Inca & Cristo Redentor

One of the most thrilling drives from Santiago leads into the Andes Mountains via the dramatic Caracoles Pass, a road famous for its 29 switchbacks. Our first stop, Laguna del Inca, is a stunning emerald-green lake at the Portillo ski resort. From there, we tackled the rugged journey to Cristo Redentor de los Andes, a breathtaking statue at nearly 4,000 meters above sea level, marking the Chile-Argentina border.

The Chilean Coast – Reñaca, Viña del Mar & Valparaíso

A two-hour drive west brought us to Chile’s coastline, where we started at Reñaca Beach, a favorite for surfers and sun-seekers. Further south, Viña del Mar, known as “The Garden City,” boasts stunning beaches and parks. Our final stop was Valparaíso, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its colorful hillside homes, funiculars, and incredible street art. Wandering through its steep, mural-covered streets was an unforgettable experience.

Wine Country: A Taste of Chile

Chile is a paradise for wine lovers, with regions like the Maipo Valley, Casablanca Valley, and Colchagua Valley producing some of the world’s best Cabernet Sauvignons and Carmenères. While we sampled many exceptional vintages, our deep dive into Chilean wine deserves its own feature—which you’ll find in the full Iconic Concierge Spring 2025 edition.

Know Before You Go

Best time to visit: Spring (September–November) and fall (March–May) offer ideal weather.
Visa requirements: Canadians can stay visa-free for up to 90 days.
Trip length: Five days offer a great taste, but 7–10 days allow for a deeper exploration.