Cerro San Cristóbal

Cerro San Cristóbal, Parque Metropolitano, Santiago, 56-2-730-1300

Description: BELLAVISTA. Named for Catholic Saint Christopher, this hill in the centrally located Parque Metropolitano offers a choice spot in the city for panoramic views on clear days when the smog that often blankets the region dissipates. Walk or ride to the summit where the views of Santiago below are a patchwork quilt meeting the breathtaking peaks of the Andes beyond. Travelers will want to be sure to visit the Virgen de la Imaculada statue at the peak and stop by the zoo and wine museum on the trip up.
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Estación Mapocho

Plaza de la Cultura s/n, Estación de Metro Cal y Cant, Santiago, 56-2-787-0000

Description: This turn-of-the-20th century former railway station is a massive structure that today hosts a diversity of live concerts, cultural events and festivals. In addition to playing host to events throughout the year, the converted station houses a show space where local and regional artists often display their work. There are also an on-site café, bookstore and shop selling handcrafted items. The Mapocho Station is located across from the University of Santiago.
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La Chascona

Fernando Márquez de la Plata 0192, Santiago, 56-2-777-8741

Description: BELLAVISTA. One of Chile's most famous native sons was Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Pablo Neruda. This popular tourist attraction situated in the Bellavista neighborhood was one of the famed wordsmith's homes. Modern architecture distinguishes the residence, and tourists can experience the world of Neruda through its design. Neruda's home showcases art and craft pieces he brought back to Santiago from his international travels. Guided tours (offered in Spanish, English, French and German) give visitors the best opportunity to get the back-story on this fascinating landmark.
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Plaza de Armas

Calle Compañía and Calle Estado, Santiago,

Description: EL CENTRO. This city-center square is a must destination for travelers to Santiago, whether visiting for a weekend, a week or longer. The plaza was founded in the mid-16th century by conquering Spaniards and was designed to be the heart of the city. As Santiago grew, the Plaza continued to be the center of urban life. The square is surrounded by the Palacio de los Gobernadores, the Palacio de la Real Audiencia and the Municipalidad de Santiago. While here, take a bit of time to relax amid the trees and watch the mix of people who make this South American capital an ever-growing, well-traveled destination.
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Plaza de La Constitución

Barrio Cívico, Comuna de Santiago, Santiago,

Description: EL CENTRO. This plaza's claim to fame is La Moneda Palace that borders it. La Moneda is the seat of Santiago's government and is an architecturally appealing symbol of the history and development of Chile. After a walk around the Plaza, go on a short tour of La Moneda and the surrounding grounds. Be sure to begin the visit here promptly before ten in the morning to ensure seeing the rousing changing of the guards.
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