The pulsating heart of Santiago is definitely the Central Market, which showcases the richness of Chile through its fresh food, vegetables, and fruits. Right in the middle of the market stands an iron statue, adding an artistic touch to the vibrant space.

The market is a testament to the country’s abundance, offering visitors a wide range of options, from local produce to handicrafts. Like any lively marketplace, it can be noisy and crowded, but for those who don’t mind, it promises an entertaining and memorable experience.

The best time to visit is around lunch hour, when the market is at its liveliest and visitors can sample some of its delicious offerings, such as fish marinades, ceviche, or stuffed zucchini. Mariachis perform in various corners, their sweet music cutting through the bustle and serenading both locals and tourists.

The market’s metal structure was originally made in England and moved to Chile in 1872, where it was assembled to host the National Exposition before being transformed into a market. Today, it stands as a symbol of art and life in Santiago and is open every day, except on election days.

Tips: Here you can grab a bite and shop for authentic Chilean souvenirs, such as textiles or alpaca scarves, often at very reasonable prices.

Nestled in the heart of Santiago, Emporio la Rosa is an enchanting ice cream shop that has won the hearts of locals and tourists alike. While their menu boasts a variety of delectable options like sandwiches, meals, and salads, it is their artisan ice cream that truly steals the show, making it a must-visit destination, whether it's the scorching summer or the chilly winter season.

Situated in the center of the city, Emporio la Rosa serves up a wide array of handcrafted ice creams, catering to different palates and dietary preferences. Those following a vegan lifestyle need not fret, as they have an array of vegan options available.

Emporio la Rosa's ice cream has garnered a reputation for being phenomenal, and rightfully so. With approximately 40 different types of ice cream to choose from, the options seem endless. Among the favorites are Lucuma, a nutty-tasting fruit flavor that captivates the taste buds, the intriguing combination of Chocolate-black pepper, the exquisite Ulmo honey sourced from the southern regions of Chile, and the irresistible "manjar," which is Chile's delightful rendition of dulce de leche.

Visitors have been amazed by the bold yet harmonious flavors on offer. One such surprising delight that left patrons thoroughly impressed was the "leché y arroz" flavor, which combines milk and rice. Although an unlikely pairing, it turned out to be an unexpectedly delicious treat that left a lasting impression.

Santa Lucia Hill is 629 meters (or 2,064 feet) above sea level and 69 meters (or 226 feet) above the local area. This unique hill is the remainder of a 15 million-year-old volcano.

The hill was originally called Huelén in pre-colonial times. In 1541, Spanish conquierer Pedro de Valdivia claimed the hill for the Spanish and named the hill Santa Lucia. Pedro de Valdivia founded Santiago from Santa Lucia, making this hill an important historical site. During Santiago's early days, missionaries used the hill to pray and worship.

In the early 1800s, Manuel Olaguer Feliú, a Spanish military engineer, built two forts on the hill. Hidalgo Castle was built in 1820, and the fort is open to the public. Today, the site is home to an enormous park. A series of stone steps lead visitors to the top for an incredible view. The climb may be challenging, especially on a hot day.

The steep steps twist their way past terraces, trees, statues, fountains, and gardens that have been erected over the centuries. Each terrace allows visitors to rest before continuing. Don't miss the beautiful Neptune Fountain.

In 1849, United States Naval Officer James Melville Gilliss founded an American observatory on the hill. Gilliss sought to measure the solar parallax precisely. Chile purchased the equipment and formed Chile's first National Astronomical Observatory on the site.

Traditionally, an 1824 cannon is fired every day to mark the noon hour.

Tips:
Visit on a clear weekend day. On the weekends, there is less traffic, and the air is often clearer with less smog. The clearer the air, the better your view of the mountains.

The Santa Lucia Market or Feria de Santa Lucía is a traditional arts and crafts market located in central Santiago. At this market you will find good value souvenirs and handicrafts, many of which are locally handmade. Typical items sold here are the famous alpaca wool, native instruments and all sorts of decorative figures. It is also interesting for those who do not have the chance to travel outside of Chile, as Peruvian and Bolivian goods are also sold at this market. Visiting the market is an excellent way to discover Chile’s folkloric culture.

Among the stalls you will find handcrafted shoes, boots, rugs, bags, woollen clothes and jewellery; there’s also lamps and lights, wooden instruments, plaques, souvenirs and leather goods. It’s an impressive array and worth a wander. Definitely head here to look for your trip memento and gift needs. Right across the road is Cerro Santa Lucia; park and art all in one.

The Basilica de la Merced stands as a remarkable religious landmark in Santiago, offering evidence that not all relics associated with Jesus Christ are confined to the Vatican. Nestled within the basilica is a sliver of the cross upon which Jesus Christ was crucified, reportedly gifted to Chilean mercenaries by King Alfonso XIII of Spain. This sacred artifact has turned the basilica into a major pilgrimage site, drawing visitors with its splendid neo-Renaissance architecture and a captivating religious museum housed within.

Originally constructed in 1566 by the Mercedarians, the church fell victim to an earthquake, prompting its reconstruction in 1736. Stepping inside, one is greeted by a breathtaking interior adorned with a Bavarian Baroque pulpit and a revered sixteenth-century image of the Virgin Mary upon the altar.

The church museum offers a glimpse into the history of the Merced order, showcasing truly exceptional pieces from Easter Island, including a rare rongorongo tablet. Despite the presence of this captivating museum, the basilica remains a place of worship where daily masses are held, drawing devout believers and curious visitors alike.

Why You Should Visit:
The street presence is bold but the interior is balanced, much resembling the grand halls of some French renaissance palace.
Beautiful deus! Incredible timber floor! And, if you're lucky enough, you can hear the charming bell.