Bellavista

City Center, Santiago,

Description: BELLAVISTA. This chic neighborhood on the south bank of the Mapocho River is a lovely locale to enjoy Santiago's culture and social life all mingling along colorful tree-lined streets. By day, visitors to the area can shop and barter for trendy items in the small shops and boutiques that populate the street, while at night, socialites can party into the wee hours of the morning at the clubs and bars that are quickly cropping up in the area. Bellavista is also awash in the creative scene from neighborhood theaters and art houses. This diverse neighborhood is also home to Parque Metropolitano (the largest green area in Santiago with 2 public pools), La Chascona (the house of Pablo Neruda), and the National Zoo.
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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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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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