Cerro San Cristobal (San Cristobal Hill), Santiago (must see)

For one of the best panoramic views of Santiago, make your way to San Cristóbal Hill, on the northern side of the city. Rising to about 880 meters above sea level, it stands roughly 300 meters above central Santiago and forms part of the vast Metropolitan Park.

A convenient starting point is the Pío Nono entrance, near Bellavista. Here you’ll easily spot the lower station of the historic Santiago Funicular. Take the funicular uphill toward the summit, or follow the walking routes if you prefer to climb on foot.

Once you reach the top, look uphill for the huge white statue of the Virgin of the Immaculate Conception. Standing on a tall pedestal, it is the clearest landmark on the summit and can be seen from many parts of the city. Follow the steps and terraces toward it. At the base of the statue is a small chapel, while nearby you’ll find the sanctuary area and church.

Now, turn away from the statue and head toward the open viewing terraces. From here, Santiago spreads out below you. On a clear day, especially after rain has cleared the haze, you can see the city’s high-rise buildings and the Andes Mountains beyond.

Before leaving the summit, look for one of the food stands selling “mote con huesillo,” a traditional cold Chilean drink made with dried peach, husked wheat, and sweet syrup. You may also want to try an “empanada de pino” (an iconic Chilean baked pastry filled with a savory minced or ground beef and onion mixture, a hard-boiled egg slice, a black olive, and sometimes a raisin).

For a different way down, follow the signs to the Cumbre Cable Car Station. The cable car crosses the park and gives you another excellent view over Santiago. If you ride toward Oasis Station, you can continue to the nearby Japanese Garden, recognizable by its landscaped paths, ornamental plants and Japanese-inspired design.

Elsewhere in Metropolitan Park, you’ll also find walking and cycling trails, playgrounds and the Tupahue swimming pool, making San Cristóbal Hill much more than simply a viewpoint.