Not many cities in the world can offer 35-degree heat on the ground, while the snow-capped tops of the Andes mountains glisten in the background, can they? But Santiago is far from your average city. With a population of over six million people, Santiago – meaning ‘Saint James’ – is one of South America finest cities and home to the ABB FIA Formula E Championship for the second time in the series history on Saturday, January 26.
With just days to go until Parque O’Higgins - named after one of Chile’s founding fathers – plays host to the third round of the championship, we’ve put together a guide of the best things to see and do in Chile’s capital city.
Sights and sounds
Soak up the South American spice of La Vega Central Market
Try traditional Peruvian pepper, buy a kilo of fresh strawberries to much in the sun or go to town on traditional Chilean cuisine in the market’s eating area. It’s your call but make sure you soak up the spice and stray into Santiago’s favourite food market.
Get lost in Barrio Lastarria
With its well-maintained European architecture, cobblestone streets and vine-covered buildings harking back to the days of the Spanish rule, the Lastarria neighbourhood offers some of the best photo opportunities in Santiago.
Climb to the top of Cerro San Cristobal (or just take the cable car)
Without a doubt the best way to see the city (unless you have a helicopter handy) is from the top of Cerro San Cristobal. At 850m above sea level, it’s the perfect viewing platform to take in the sights of Santiago against the stunning Andes in the background.
Make yourself at home at La Moneda
La Moneda – Santiago’s Presidential Palace – is one of finest examples of European architecture in the city. Sitting proudly at the centre of the city, head over to see the military spectacle of the changing of the guard at 10:00am on alternate days.