Santiago, Chile’s bustling capital, is home to nearly 8 million people, nestled between the Andes Mountains and the Coastal Range.
This vibrant city offers a unique mix of urban charm, history, and natural beauty, with hidden gems waiting just beyond its neighborhoods.
Here’s a quick guide to some of Santiago’s must-visit areas and what makes each one special.
1. Historic Downtown (Centro Histórico)
The heart of Santiago beats in its historic core. Explore Plaza de Armas, La Moneda Palace, and the lush greenery of Cerro Santa Lucía.
Ecordua Tip: Take a walk with us through the city’s history and uncover hidden stories most tourists miss.
2. Providencia and the Bustling East
Known for lively streets and green spaces, Providencia offers plenty of parks like Parque Metropolitano. A short drive further east brings you to the Andes foothills and Farellones.
Ecordua Adventure: Join us on our Mapocho Trails tour for a high-mountain escape filled with scenic views and fresh air.
3. Las Condes and Vitacura: City Comforts and Mountain Escapes
These neighborhoods blend urban sophistication with easy access to the mountains. From here, adventurers head up to ski or hike in La Parva or Farellones, while Vitacura’s restaurants promise world-class dining.
Ecordua Adventure: Spend the day exploring the Andes with us, followed by a gourmet meal in Vitacura.
4. South Santiago and Maipo Canyon (Cajón del Maipo)
As you leave the city’s southern edge, nature takes over. Cajón del Maipo is a playground for hikers and hot spring lovers.
Ecordua Experience: Discover glaciers, mountain trails, and more on our full-day tour through this stunning canyon.
5. Bellavista: Art, Culture, and Nightlife
This bohemian neighborhood buzzes with creativity. Wander its colorful streets, visit Pablo Neruda’s house, and enjoy rooftop cocktails as the sun sets.
Ecordua Tip: Join our city tour for an insider’s look at Bellavista’s artistic spirit.
6. Quinta Normal and Barrio Yungay: Parks and Stories
Quinta Normal Park offers a quiet escape with museums tucked among the greenery, including the moving Museum of Human Rights. In neighboring Barrio Yungay, cobblestone streets lead to street art, cafes, and colonial architecture.
Ecordua Tip: Keep an eye out for murals—each one tells a story of the neighborhood’s creative heart.
7. Barrio Franklin: Markets and Street Eats
For a taste of authentic Santiago, explore Barrio Franklin’s bustling markets, like the famous Persa Bio-Bío, where food stalls and antique shops invite endless browsing.
Ecordua Tip: Create your own market adventure by sampling street food and searching for hidden treasures.
8. Barrio Italia: Art, Design, and Coffee Culture
Known for its design studios and cozy cafes, Barrio Italia is perfect for a relaxed stroll through art galleries and boutique shops.
Ecordua Tip: Recharge with a specialty coffee and soak up the creative vibe of this charming area.
9. The Western Edge: Gateway to Casablanca and Valparaíso
While Santiago’s west holds the airport and industrial zones, it’s also the starting point to reach Casablanca’s vineyards and the coastal city of Valparaíso.
Ecordua Tip: Join us on a wine-tasting journey in Casablanca or a day trip to Valparaíso’s vibrant streets.
This is Santiago—a city where urban life meets natural beauty, and every neighborhood holds something new to discover.
Whether it’s hiking in the Andes, diving into local culture, or sipping wine by the coast, Ecordua is here to make your journey unforgettable.
