The 10 Coolest Neighborhoods in Santiago, Chile
Chile’s capital is divided into comunas (districts) and then into barrios (neighborhoods), each distinct and lively. How do you know where to stay and where to visit? Here is our guide to the ten coolest, must-see barrios in Santiago.
Within Providencia
Bellavista
Bellavista
This barrio is rather bohemian. It’s decorated with vibrant street art and is known for its lively night life – bars, clubs, and great places to grab dinner. Also in this neighborhood is the access to Cerro San Cristobal, through Santiago’s Metropolitan Park; it offers one of the best views in the city. No wonder Chilean poet Pablo Neruda had a home here, La Chascona. Be sure to check it out.
La Chascona, Fernando Márquez de La Plata 0192, Santiago, Providencia, Region Metropolitana, Chile, +56 227778741
http://instagram.com/p/BV7nV2aFWBp/?taken-at=213218141
Parque Bustamante
Cafe
Parque Bustamante
Parque Bustamente lies between the center of Santiago and the rest of Providencia. It’s full of bold architecture and lovely parks surrounding Salvado Metro. This area is a great place to stop for a coffee in a cozy cafe. We also recommend a visit to the Cafe Literario, a public library and cafe. If you’re a keen skater, there’s Skatepark Parque Bustamante.
Cafe Literario, Metropolitan, Gral Bustamante 50, Providencia, Región Metropolitana, Chile, + 56 222364336
Within Ñuñoa
Barrio Italia
Barrio Italia, located in the north of this district, is the true bohemian center of Santiago. It features old Italian-influenced buildings and international food; Barrio Italia is a place for the artistic and youthful.
http://instagram.com/p/BRW40w9FDzO/?tagged=barrioitaliasantiago
Bellas Artes and Lastarria
Bellas Artes and Lastarria
These barrios surround Museo Bellas Artes, so it makes sense that they are fashionable, arty barrios. Besides access to the incredible art museum, Cerro Santa Lucio (a small hill) borders Lastarria from the center of Santiago, and offers great views. Also to be found are books and antiques, primarily on the weekends.
Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, Ismael Valdés Vergara, Santiago, Region Metropolitana, Chile, +56 988589974
Within Santiago
Barrio Brasil and Yungay
Brasil and Yungay are similar barrios, situated in western Santiago. They are set apart from the business center of Santiago by the Central Highway that divides the city in two. Visit these sibling barrios when you need a taste of a calmer pace of life.
Centro Historico
Cathedral, Museum, Post Office
Centro Historico
The center of Santiago, Centro Historico, boasts the Plaza de Armas, including the post office, Cathedral of Santiago, and the National Historical Museum. Head this way for a history lesson, a cultural experience, street performers, and very good food.
Museo Historico Nacional, Plaza de Armas 951, Santiago, Chile, +56 224117000
Within Vitacura
Alonso de Cordoba
A upper-middle-class residential neighborhood, Alonso de Códoba offers a glimpse into daily life in the city. With shopping, art galleries, and the Bicentennial Park, this barrio offers plenty for you to do and gives you a taste of luxury in Chile’s capital.
Within Recoleta
Patronato
Located north of Bellavista, Patronato is the cosmopolitan hub. With a large international population, Patronato is known for its diversity. With a unique shopping experience and food to match, head over to Patronato when you want to switch things up.
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