Santiago, nestled snugly into the shadow of the Andes Mountains, is a city where Chile’s heart beats strong. It’s a rich mosaic of cultural heritage and forward-thinking, this city seamlessly weaves together history and modern life.
The streets of Santiago are filled with the scent of traditional empanadas blended with the sophisticated aromas from fancy restaurants. The food in this city is what dreams are made of… seriously. My taste buds were in absolute heaven.
But what truly defines Santiago is the warmth and openness of its people. Santiaguinos embody the spirit of hospitality, ready to welcome you in with open arms and share their city’s wonders with you. From the heights of its tallest mountains to the depth of its cultural roots.
But here’s the tea: Santiago is BIG. Like, over 5 million people big and where do you stay in a sprawling city of that many people?! Finding a place to crash can feel like you’re trying to solve a Rubik’s cube with a blindfold on. Daunting? Yes. Impossible? Absolutely not.
Fear not, my friend. I have ventured into the urban jungle and emerged with the ULTIMATE guide on where to stay in Santiago. Luxury seekers, party animals, foodies or adrenaline junkies – I’ve got a spot for all!
So, it’s time to get scrollin’ as I take you through everything I know…
Photo: Harry Butler
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Where is the Best Place to Stay in Santiago, Chile?
Looking for a specific place to stay in Chile? These are my highest recommendations for places to stay in Santiago, Chile.
Casa Bueras Boutique Hotel | Best Hotel in Santiago
Located in a renovated 1927 mansion, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Relax by the pool in the walled garden, indulge your senses at the spa, or admire the marble staircase and other 5-star decor.
Some rooms include a balcony and an antique fireplace. The restaurant offers a full buffet breakfast with homemade treats and they have wine tasting sessions with cold meats. You’ll leave feeling very pampered and refreshed.
Guanako Hostel | Best Hostel in Santiago
If you’re looking for a fun area to stay in, Guanako Hostel is one of the best hostels in Santiago. It’s definitely where to stay in Santiago for nightlife.
It’s set up perfectly for backpackers as each bed has its own international plug, light, shelf for your phone, and an oversized locker so your stuff isn’t all over the floor. Plus, they have free breakfast and a rooftop terrace where guests can chill and enjoy the view of nearby San Cristobal Hill.
Loft Vista Icons | Best Airbnb in Santiago
This cool loft is located right next to La Moneda Palace and is on the last two levels of the Santiago Downtown Nova Buildings. This condo comes with its own pool, and gym and has a Starbucks and local restaurants. This apartment has a great view of the mountain range of the Andes and the Entel Tower. The apartment has 1 bed and bath, and an indoor garden.
Centro
The historic center of Santiago is the financial and historical district. You’ll find plenty of historic buildings surrounding the central square, Plaza de Armas.
Barrio Brasil
Barrio Brasil was an upper-class neighborhood of Santiago in the middle of the 18th century. You can find lots of interesting architectural styles around the many streets of Barrio Brasil. Efforts to rebuild the neighborhood began after the massive earthquake in 1985.
Bellavista
This is undeniably Santiago’s hipster hangout. With a young and alternative vibe, this is home to the best of the city’s nightlife, it’s a great place to grab a beer or cocktail and dance the night away!
Providencia
Providencia is the commercial and gastronomical hotspot of Santiago. It’s a solidly upper-middle-class Chile area with lots of entertainment areas and beautiful parks perfect for an afternoon stroll or morning run.
Las Condes
In the middle of the 20th century, affluent Santiagoans started to move to this Chile area from downtown Santiago. Eventually, it was connected to downtown by the metro and today it has become a collection of high-rise office and residential buildings.
When backpacking Chile, you’ll probably spend quite some time in Santiago. It’s a sprawling city divided into 34 residential and industrial districts called comunas or barrios, which make up the greater Santiago metropolitan area.
The city is situated in the Maipo River Valley with the Andes to the east and the Chilean Coastal Range to the west. Generally speaking, the more to the east or northeast you go (closer to the mountains), the better the neighbourhoods will be.
Providencia is in the east and it’s one of Santiago’s most well-known neighbourhoods. It’s the financial powerhouse of the country and most of the residents are young so they bring a trendy vibe.
The centre (centro) of Santiago is marked by the Plaza de Armas – a central square surrounded by beautiful architecture and historic buildings – and it spreads out from there. Many nice restaurants have been established in this Chile area, along with a lot of fun bars, cosy coffee shops and small stores with local designers.
Photo: Harry Butler
To the west, you’ll find up-and-coming hipster enclaves in older neighbourhoods that have been revived in the last few years. This Chile area is where to stay in Santiago on a budget, thanks to the many less expensive food and accommodation options.
The northern part of Santiago starts in Bellavista and extends out to the city borders. It was known in colonial times as La Chimba. It mostly comprised of convents and cemeteries. Today, they’ve been joined by hospitals and health centres.
Still confused about where to stay in Santiago? Sit back, and relax, I gotchu!
Santiago’s 5 Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
Local residents, known as Santiaguinos, are very proud of their metro system which has expanded to all of the most popular and inhabited parts of the city. There’s also an expansive public bus system that makes getting around even more convenient.
However, it is still a capital city where about 40% of Chile’s population resides, so traffic and crowds on public transport can get pretty crazy. That’s why it’s best to choose where to stay in Santiago based on the places you plan to spend the most time as it can take up to an hour or more to get from one side of the city to the other.
I’ve broken the areas in this guide down by interest to help you choose the best place to stay in Santiago without having to do a ton of research. I’ve done it for you, so you can spend more time planning the things that really matter like the vineyards you’re going to tour, the shopping malls you’re going to hit up and the the rest of your South America trip.
1. Centro – Where to Stay in Santiago for Your First Time
The historic centre of Santiago is the financial and historical district. You’ll find plenty of historic buildings surrounding the central square, Plaza de Armas. Some of the buildings you’ll find are the Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago, the post office, and the National History Museum.
Cerro Santa Lucia is the hill where the city was founded in 1541 and it’s also in Centro. You’ll also find two artsy and bohemian neighbourhoods (barrios) – Lastarria and Bellas Artes – that have a lot to offer visitors.
Of course, you’ll also find some of the best restaurants in the city here, which is why it’s one of the best places to stay in Santiago for your first time.
Photo: Sasha Savinov
Casa Bueras Boutique Hotel | Best Hotel in Centro
Located in a renovated 1927 mansion, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Relax by the pool in the walled garden, indulge your senses at the spa, or admire the marble staircase and other 5-star decor.
Some rooms include a balcony and an antique fireplace. The restaurant offers a full buffet breakfast with homemade treats and they have wine tasting sessions with cold meats. You’ll leave feeling very pampered and refreshed.
Hostal Forestal | Best Hostel in Centro
Located in the heart of Santiago, this is where to stay in Santiago for the first time! The staff are very friendly and can speak multiple languages, and the free breakfast is delicious.
They are very knowledgeable about the best value walking tours and things to do around the city. Plus, they have several events throughout the week creating the perfect amount of social interaction.
Centrally located studio | Best Airbnb in Centro
This studio has a beautiful view of Santiago and the Cordillera de Los Andes. Located Just one block from Alameda and the Main Avenue of Santiago. The studio has a pool that can be used in summer, a gym and security at the reception. The apartment is also close to many restaurants and shops as well as popular tourist attractions one has to visit.
Things to See and Do in Centro
- Head to the Plaza de Armas and explore the many historical buildings there
- Get a history lesson at the Chilean National History Museum
- Take in the incredible exhibitions at Museo Bellas Artes
- Enjoy the 360 views of Santiago from the top of Santa Lucia Hill
- Wander through Mercado Central – the 5th best market in the world
- Get some exercise while learning about Santiago on two wheels with La Bicicleta Verde
- Shop for souvenirs at the Santa Lucia Arts & Crafts Market
- Try the Chilean cocktail terremoto at La Piojera – a dive bar once visited by Chilean president Arturo Alessandri Palma
- Get a better understanding of pre-Colombian culture and art at Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino
- Watch the Changing of the Guard at Palacio de la Moneda – the Presidential Palace originally built as the Chilean Mint
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Barrio Brasil – Best Place to Stay in Santiago on a Budget
Barrio Brasil was an upper-class neighbourhood of Santiago in the middle of the 18th century. You can find lots of interesting architectural styles around the many streets of Barrio Brasil. Efforts to rebuild the neighbourhood began after the massive earthquake in 1985.
It’s now known for its strong cultural and artistic scene, thanks to the creation of spaces for cultural events, recreation, and the arts. This neighbourhood is once again a thriving area of the city.
Barrio Brasil is nearby a few other artsy neighborhoods such as Yungay and Dieciocho creating a young, hip vibe that is full of energy as many young, middle-class families have moved into the Chile area.
Photo: Michael Paul Stevens (WikiCommons)
Matildas Hotel Boutique | Best Hotel in Barrio Brasil
Set in a refurbished Patrimonial Palace, this is a charming hotel where the staff want to make your stay as pleasant as possible. Guests can relax in the beautiful walled garden with a glass of wine after a long day of sightseeing.
The breakfast is free and delicious and they have the best coffee according to many different reviews. The beds are quite comfortable as well.
Happy House Hostel | Best Hostel in Barrio Brasil
Happy House Hostel is a cute little backpacker’s hostel with spacious rooms in the Barrio Brasil neighbourhood of Santiago de Chile. There is a great social vibe here and the outdoor pool area is where all the chit-chat happens. The thing that makes it so terrific is its central location. It’s within walking distance of La Moneda Palace!
Santiago Downtown Apartment | Best Airbnb in Barrio Brasil
Centrally located in Santiago, this apartment can accommodate up to five guests and the building has a swimming pool available in summer, a BBQ area, a gym and an events room. The apartment is situated two blocks from La Moneda Palace, La Moneda station and is close to a TV Tower. The apartment has three beds and two bathrooms a fully equipped kitchen, complimentary wifi and other modern amenities.
Things to See and Do in Barrio Brasil
- Enjoy a chic dinner or a cheese plate with a glass of wine at La Peluqueria Francesa – a historic French barbershop turned restaurant
- Spend an afternoon at Parque Quinta Normal where you can explore a couple of different museums, rent a paddleboat on the lake, or nap in the shade
- Learn about the horrors of Chile’s brutal 17-year dictatorship that ended in 1990 at the Museum of Memory and Human Rights (Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos)
- Enjoy an evening of entertainment at El Huaso Enrique, where you can watch traditional cueca dancing and live folkloric music
- Take the kids, or yourself, to ride the rollercoasters at Fantasilandia, Santiago’s own amusement park
- Take a trip to outer space at the Planetarium (Planetario de la USACH)
- Get off the tourist trail and take in the incredible murals of the Museo Cielo Abierto (an open-air museum) dedicated to street artists in the San Miguel neighbourhood
- Taste delicious Chilean wine and tour a vineyard at Vina Concho y Torro
- Explore neighbouring Barrio Yungay – one of the most traditional ‘hoods in Santiago associated with artists and culture
- Get a feel for student life in Barrio Republica and Dieciocho
3. Bellavista – Where to Stay in Santiago for Nightlife
This is undeniably Santiago’s hipster hangout. With a young and alternative vibe, this is home to the best of the city’s nightlife, it’s a great place to grab a beer or cocktail and dance the night away!
Bellavista is full of eating and drinking places for all tastes. There are also theatres, karaoke bars, LGBT friendly clubs, and artisan shops.
It’s also the nearest neighborhood to the entrance of Cerro San Cristobal where you’ll find a zoo and a massive park. You can hike or take the funicular to the top and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Photo: Sasha Savinov
The Hip Santiago Hotel | Best Hotel in Bellavista
At the Hip Santiago Hotel, all guests have access to the terrace, fitness centre, bar, and restaurant. Some rooms have a seating area, and some have a balcony, but they all have their own funky decorations.
The best part is the location inside Patio Bellavista – an extremely popular enclave of restaurants, bars, shops, and cafes. This hotel is also within a short walk to a metro station providing direct access to the rest of the city. It’s where to stay in Santiago for the nightlife!
Guanako Hostel | Best Hostel in Bellavista
This is our top hostel recommendation for where to stay in Santiago. It’s in a fantastic location near universities, so there is a very young, hip, bohemian vibe. This is also where you’ll find the best nightlife in Santiago.
The hostel has an awesome rooftop terrace, free breakfast, and a very clean environment.
In Bellavista with Amazing View | Best Airbnb in Bellavista
The best thing about this Airbnb in Bellavista? Yup, surprise surprise, it’s the view. If you’re looking for a private stay in Santiago, Chile with a view so nice you ain’t gotta leave the couch, you’ve found it. The Airbbnb is suitable for two guests and the wifi is reliable so it’s good for couch potatoes or digital nomads in Chile.
Things to See and Do in Bellavista
- Put your party pants on and head to Patio Bellavista – the heart of Chilean nightlife full of rooftop bars, restaurants, and shops
- Do and see all the fun things on Cerro San Cristobal:
- Hike from the bottom to the top
- When you arrive at the top, quench your thirst with a mote con huesillo – a refreshing drink made from peaches and husked wheat
- Pay your respects to the Virgin Mary at the top
- Take some incredible photos of the panoramic views at the top
- Ride the funicular
- Improve your Salsa skills at Maestra Vida
- Put on your dancing shoes and dance to a live cumbia band at La Peña del Nano Parra – a music venue offering an authentic, local experience
- Take a market bicyle tour with some buddies.
- Learn about the life and work of the Nobel Prize-winning Chilean poet Pablo Neruda through an in-depth tour of his Santiago home – La Chascona
- Eat like a local at Galindo and try a pastel de choclo, a completo, and a churrasco. Yummy!
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Grab an eSIM!4. Providencia Neighborhood – Coolest Place to Stay in Santiago
Providencia is the commercial and gastronomical hotspot of Santiago. It’s a solidly upper-middle-class area with lots of entertainment areas and beautiful parks perfect for an afternoon stroll or morning run.
This is where you’ll find the tallest building in South America, the Gran Torre. It dominates the skyline and contains the Costanera Center with a shopping mall, food court, restaurants, grocery stores, and a cinema.
Barrio Italia is also in Providencia. It’s another cool little neighbourhood that has been revived from an old hat-making community. Parque Bustamante is a great place to curl up with a good book and a cup of coffee at one of the many cafes.
Photo: Sasha Savinov
Almasur Providencia | Best Hotel in Providencia
This luxury hotel located in Providencia is relatively new, so you know it’s in tip-top condition (and in high demand). If you do manage to nab a room in this Santiago hotel, they offer something for everyone; suites, budget rooms and even apartments are all available.
Hostal Providencia | Best Hostel in Providencia
This perfectly located hostel in Santiago is a great budget option for groups or solo backpackers looking to rest their heads. I have personally stayed in this hostel for just one night and after a long travel day the day before, the free coffee all day long really powered me though!
Loft Vista Icons | Best Airbnb in Providencia
This cool loft is located right next to La Moneda Palace and is on the last two levels of the Santiago Downtown Nova Buildings. This condo comes with its own pool, and gym and has a Starbucks and local restaurants. This apartment has a great view of the mountain range of the Andes and the Entel Tower. The apartment has 1 bed and bath, and an indoor garden.
Things to See and Do in Providencia
- Get high up in the tallest building in Latin America – the Torre Gran Costanera
- Taste some local craft beers at The Black Rock Pub
- Shop ’til you drop at the wide selection of stores at the Costanera Center
- Take in the many sculptures in the Sculpture Park on the banks of the Mapocho River
- Explore Barrio Italia – a little bohemian neighbourhood with boutique shops, nice cafes, and delicious restaurants
- Relax in Parque Bustamante while taking in the impressive architecture
- Grab a cup of coffee and a good book at Cafe Literario in Parque Bustamante
- Practice your kickflip at Skatepark Parque Bustamante
- Take a photo of the Torre Telefonica Chile – it’s shaped like a 90’s cell phone
- Find tranquillity in the Japanese Garden on Cerro San Cristobal
- Attend a concert, football game, or other event at the National Stadium
- Admire the exhibitions at the Museum of Modern Art
- Explore the surrounding Andes Mountains or watch the sunset over the Andes with some wine.
- Get transported back to an American diner in the 1950’s at Bar Liguria
5. Las Condes – Best Neighbourhood in Santiago For Families to Stay in
In the middle of the 20th century, affluent Santiagoans started to move to this Chile area from downtown Santiago. Eventually, it was connected to downtown by the metro and today it has become a collection of high-rise office and residential buildings. It’s part of an area unofficially known as Sanhattan (Santiago + Manhattan) as it has become the financial centre.
This Chile area has many parks, places for shopping, and the national stadium. As the most upscale sector of Santiago, the relatively tidy appearance of wide streets, shops, and parks just might make you forget you’re in Latin America, as it looks much more European.
This neighbourhood is geographically closest to the Andes, which makes it a convenient location for travellers eager to embark on some of the world’s best hikes or even hit the slopes. There are three major ski centres in Eastern Santiago: La Parva, El Colorado and Valle Nevado.
Double Tree by Hilton Santiago | Best Hotel in Las Condes
This gorgeous hotel is located in one of the best areas of Santiago right next to the tallest building in South America – the Grand Torre Santiago.
It’s where to stay in Santiago with a family as it’s located near an amazing shopping mall, the San Cristobal hill, a massive park with a Japanese Garden, and much more. They offer a delicious breakfast spread at the on-site restaurant as well as a fitness centre, business centre, and bar.
NH Collection Plaza Santiago | Best Hotel in Las Condes
With an indoor swimming pool, health club services, and an award-winning restaurant, you really can’t go wrong with this hotel! It’s right across the street from Costanera Center shopping mall which has amazing restaurants and many different stores.
The restaurant offers a beautiful buffet breakfast for an additional cost and the bartender serves up some tasty cocktails.
Room just steps from Metro Cristobal Colon | Best Airbnb in Las Condes
This Airbnb in Las Condes – a quiet and safe neighbourhood of Santiago de Chile is so cute! It is a budget-friendly private stay but also has access to a shared garden, shared patio and shared outdoor space. My favourite thing about this Airbnb is the view from the balcony!
Things to See and Do in Las Condes
- Go for a peaceful afternoon stroll through Parque Bicentenario
- Shop the wide variety of traditional Chilean artisan goods at Los Dominicos Village
- Take in the impressive collection at Ralli Museum, a modern museum for Latin American art
- Enjoy the beautiful sculptures at La Pastora, an open-air museum
- Find all the constellations using the telescopes at the National Astronomical Observatory
- Have a religious experience at the Baha’i Temple of South America. Admire the architecture, at the very least.
- Enjoy a BBQ picnic at Parque Padre Hurtado
- Take a day trip to the Andes for some hiking or skiing. El Colorado Ski Resort is the closest
- Relax and people-watch in Aracauno Park
- Escape the summer heat and head into the mountains to check out Apoquindo Waterfall
- Get outside and take a hike in Aguas de Ramon Park
- Inspire your artistic side at the Center for All Arts (Centro de Todos Las Artes)
- Admire the skyscrapers and incredible architecture in the financial district
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Santiago
Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of Santiago and where to stay. If you have any questions of your own, drop them in the comments below. 🙂
What To Pack For Santiago
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
What is the best boutique hotel in Santiago, Chile?
I like the Casa Bueras Boutique Hotel the most. I also really like the Matildas Hotel Boutique. You’re spoilt for choice really. Just make sure to find a stay in the appropriate neighbourhood for YOU!
What is the best luxury hotel in Santiago, Chile?
For me, it has to be Almasur Providencia. This new luxury hotel in Providencia just ticks all the boxes. If that doesn’t tickle your fancy (somehow), check out Double Tree by Hilton Santiago, it’s another great luxury hotel option.
Where should backpackers stay in Santiago?
I’d say either Happy House Hostel or Guanako Hostel. One thing’s for sure, if you’re a backpacker, you should 100% stay in a hostel in Santiago. You should base your choice depending on what you are looking for, or what neighbourhood you plan on staying in.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Santiago
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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Santiago
From chic restaurants to outdoor adventures, there is something for all travellers in Santiago. The city has emerged as a cultural and financial powerhouse in Latin America and it’s not the same city it was 10 years ago. Don’t only treat it as a travel hub for getting in and around Chile because it’s much more than that.
Just to recap, my top recommendation for the best hotel in Santiago is the Casa Bueras Boutique Hotel for its incredible staff and location. My choice for the best hostel in Santiago is Guanako Hostel because of the fun, social atmosphere and proximity to fun nightlife action.
If the options above just weren’t for you, don’t worry! There are plenty of great hostels in Santiago that offer a comfy bed, affordable rates and the chance to meet like-minded travellers from all over the world.
Have you been to Santiago and think I missed something? Let me know in the comments below! Cheers!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Chile.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Santiago.
- Make sure you view this guide to staying safe in Chile to travel with confidence!
- Make sure you’re ready for anything with our South America packing list.
- If you’re moving on, check out this backpacking Argentina guide.
- Our in-depth South America backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
Photo: Harry Butler
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Excellent references…great suggestions Raquel!!! Thank you for making my research so much easier!
How long does it take to travel by metro from Las Condes to centro historico?
Carole
Hey Carole, it usually takes about 30 minutes to get to El Centro once you’re on the metro. That’s easily manageable if you’re going to be in town for the whole day. 🙂