10 Non-Touristy Things To Do In Santiago Chile

It’s easy to pick up a guide book and select the popular tourist sights and attractions of any desired city. But sometimes, to get to the real heart and soul of your destination, it’s better to dig a little deeper. When in Santiago, avoid the typical tourist traps and do as the Chileans do. Experience the place like a local and find out what this blossoming South American city is really all about.

March in a student protest

Walk a mile in the shoes of Chile’s student protestors. Since 2011, Chilean students have been organizing protests demanding structural improvements to the heavily-criticized education system. Education is a major political issue in Chile, where the difference in schooling between the rich and poor is stark. Learn more about the cause, and if you feel emboldened to join these guys in the streets, don’t be shy. Protests are generally very safe and open, though it is recommended to avoid the tail of any march and to leave once you’re done marching. Minor isolated violence tends to break out between local police and small groups of hooded protestors.

1. Explore the La Vega Central market

Market, French

This expansive, gritty market is a great place to pick up locally-grown fruits and vegetables, like the juicy cherimoya. Buy directly from local farmers and taste some of Chile’s very best produce. For prepared food, traditional Chilean dishes like cazuela are served at small restaurants at the back left section of the market at a low price. If you’re lucky, a local musician will serenade you as you wait for your food. Do make sure to leave the area early in the day, since shops close up around 2PM and the neighborhood becomes unsafe in the evenings.

Stroll down the streets of Barrio Italia

This beautiful up-and-coming neighborhood hasn’t yet attracted the masses and manages to maintain a genuinely relaxing vibe. Barrio Italia’s quiet, shaded houses have slowly morphed into trendy shops, cafés and bars, though it’s still surrounded by an overwhelmingly residential area. Walking through Barrio Italia, you’re bound to stumble on something interesting, or a fun place to grab a bite or a drink.

2. Order a gin and tonic at Ruca Bar

Bar, Restaurant, Pub Grub, Mediterranean, European

Offering a hip ambiance tucked away in the peaceful and charming Barrio Italia, Ruca Bar is a wonderful spot to relax and unwind with Chileans and expats alike. Do arrive early on Thursdays. Tables fill up fast due to their generous happy hour, which offers gin and tonics for only a luca (less than two dollars).

Shop and explore Patronato

This shopping neighborhood offers some of the thriftiest deals in town for clothes, jewelry, shoes and more. Invest some time walking up and down the streets and scouring through different stores. You’ll be surprised what kind of cute duds turn up when you look hard enough. When you’re done shopping, stick around to try one of the neighborhood’s many Korean restaurants. The bibim bap at Sukine is a real treat, while Chicken Story serves up the city’s best Korean Fried Chicken.