Santiago City Guide

Local dishes like empanadas and pastel de choclo are widely available. International food options are diverse, especially in Providencia and Vitacura. Vegan and vegetarian choices are increasing. Some late-night food options exist.

Nightlife centers around Barrio Bellavista, Lastarria, and Ñuñoa, with a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues.

The coffee scene is growing, with many specialty shops and roasters. Traditional cafes with unique styles exist.

Tipping about 10% in restaurants is common and appreciated but not mandatory. Taxi tipping is optional, often rounded up.

SIMs are sold at the airport, official stores, and malls. Main providers are Entel, Movistar, Claro, and WOM. Passport required for registration.

Cleanliness varies; central areas are tidy but some outskirts less so. Sanitation is generally good.

Some pharmacies, minimarkets, and clinics operate 24/7. Late-night food is limited to some fast food and bars.

Supermarkets and fresh markets are common, with good international products in bigger stores. Local markets offer fresh produce at lower prices.

Card payments work well in big stores and restaurants. Cash is still handy for small vendors and public transport top-ups.

ATMs are easy to find in banks, malls, and supermarkets. Big banks like Banco de Chile and Santander are common. Expect withdrawal fees around 5,000-7,000 CLP plus your bank's fees.

International schools teach mainly in English. Popular ones include The Grange School and Santiago College. Admissions open in the second half of the year, with waitlists common.

Growing community with meetups, co-working, and online groups. Nomad events happen occasionally.

Large parks like Parque Metropolitano and Parque Forestal offer plenty of green space and shaded walks.

Popular running spots include Parque Metropolitano and along the Mapocho River. Safe during the day; watch air quality in winter.

Gyms range from large chains to specialized studios, suitable for various training needs.

Tennis courts are available in clubs and parks with options for booking and coaching.

Padel courts are found in private clubs and some sports centers, with rentals and coaching available.

Numerous yoga studios offer various styles and some have English-speaking instructors.

Active martial arts scene with dojos offering BJJ, Muay Thai, boxing, and more. Some English-speaking instructors.

Ski resorts like Valle Nevado are 1.5–2 hours away, open mid-June to mid-October, with varied terrain and good snow quality.

Kayaking and rafting are popular in nearby lakes and rivers, especially Cajón del Maipo, with rentals and guided tours available.

Surf spots near Santiago are 1.5–2.5 hours away, with cold water year-round. La Boca is good for beginners; Pichilemu offers advanced waves.

Diving is only available on the coast, far from Santiago, with cold water and varied conditions.

Private clinics like Clínica Alemana offer quality care with English-speaking staff. Public care is slower and less modern. Pharmacies are widespread, some open 24/7.

Tap water is treated and safe to drink, though some prefer bottled due to taste or sensitivity.

Parks with playgrounds and kid-friendly cafes abound. Attractions include Santiago Zoo and Fantasilandia amusement park.

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly with dedicated bars and annual Pride events. Legal protections exist, though some risks remain.

Many parks allow pets, vet services are good, and some accommodations accept animals. Pet import rules are strict.