With the Andes providing a backdrop for the city, Santiago de Chile is one of the largest cities and most fascinating cities in South America. And despite its size it has maintained small town charm since its foundation in 1541.
Hostelworld.com's Colm Hanratty speaks to Kristina Schreck from Tourismo Chile about Santiago's unique location...the Chilean capital is just one hour from the heart of the Andes and one hour from the coast. Listen to find out about the best places to visit in each.
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View all guides »Had the misfortune of seeing Santiago in the wettest week they'd had for over a year. However, still managed to have fun by going to the mercado central and eating lots of seafood paella, visiting the museo de bellas artes and various museos in the centre of town. Also worth going up some of the hills to see the vista of skyscrapers surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
Insider Tip:Try and see how many stray dogs you can adopt in one day! They will follow you everywhere!!
Plus points: Awesome location, seconds from the bars and resturants of Bellavista. 5 bed female ensuite dorm is spacious, there are heaters in the room and no extra charge, nice duvets and sizable lockers. Negatives: The place is dirty. There is dust everywhere and a strong nasty smell in reception. Noisy too
I love santiago. If you come in spring, it's even better. It's one of the best city in the world. It's safe, friendly. It has culture and art. It's one of the city has more museum than afc. Lots free stuff in the city. Sitting in the park is a joy. What not like in Santiago. Winter can be cold.
Loved the walking tour, great info, cheers Felipe. Bellavista, near the unis, is a nice area. walking tour gives good ideas for where and what to do.
Altogether I wasn't impressed by Santiago. The metro is great, clean and efficient, the city seems pretty clean and safe, and everything is very modern. I just simply didn't experience anything that stood out too much about the city. I did enjoy the café con piernas :-)
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