Curator’s statement
Before embarking on a ‘bucket-list’ Antarctica cruise, a pre-cruise stay in Santiago, Chile, offers a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of this city. It is steeped in history and culture, with numerous museums, art galleries and historic neighborhoods to explore. It offers a wonderful blend of culture, nature and culinary experiences (must try an empanadas). There is something for every type of traveler.
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Where to stay in Santiago, Chile
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Things to do in Santiago, Chile
Wine Tours
The Santiago region of Chile is home to several renowned wine-producing areas, particularly the Maipo Valley. Which is one of the country's most famous wine regions. Many tours are available to visit local wineries and taste Chilean wines. For wildlife lovers, many of the wineries have Alpacas or Llamas on site.
Valparaíso
A colorful coastal city about 1.5 hours from Santiago, known for its steep hills, vibrant street art and murals and historic funiculars. Great day trip for lunch and tour around the streets. Try a local dish, “pastel de choclo”, corn pie or fresh seafood.
Cajón del Maipo
A stunning canyon located just outside Santiago. Ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, rafting and enjoying natural hot springs. An Instagrammable destination.
Places to eat & drink in Santiago, Chile
Santiago, Chile, boasts a rich culinary scene with a variety of traditional dishes. Here are some popular foods you should try while visiting:
Pastel de Choclo: A corn pie made with a layer of ground meat (often mixed with onions, olives and hard-boiled eggs) topped with a sweet corn mixture.
Completo: A Chilean-style hot dog, usually topped with sauerkraut, mayonnaise, diced tomatoes and avocado. Variations can include additional toppings like cheese and spicy sauces. The avocados are so good.
Empanadas: My favorite! These savory pastries are filled with various ingredients, such as meat, cheese or seafood. The "pino" (a mix of beef, onions, olives and hard-boiled eggs) is particularly popular.
Asado: Grilled meats, often enjoyed during family gatherings or celebrations. Typical cuts include beef, pork and chicken, often served with pebre (a Chilean salsa made of tomatoes, cilantro and chili).
Chorillana: A dish consisting of a bed of French fries topped with sautéed onions, beef and sometimes fried eggs. It's often shared among friends.
Mote con Huesillo: A traditional Chilean drink made from dried peaches (huesillos) and wheat (mote) soaked in a sweet, spiced syrup. It's often enjoyed as a refreshing snack or dessert.
Sopaipillas: Sweet tooth? Try the Sopaipillas, fried pastries made from pumpkin dough. Typically served with pebre or as a sweet treat with chancaca (a sweet syrup made from raw sugar).
These dishes reflect the diverse flavors of Chilean cuisine and are a must-try for anyone visiting Santiago!
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Travel Advisor
Christy Hierholzer
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Santiago. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out Steve Michailidis' guide, 5-Day Itinerary of Santiago, Chile.