The Most Beautiful Parks and Gardens in Santiago, Chile
Santiago is full of gorgeous buildings and monuments, but don’t forget about the open space – it’s intrinsic to the city. To find the green in this city of brick and stone, check out our guide for the most beautiful parks and gardens in Chile’s capital.
Parque Metropolitano de Santiago
Park
Celebrating 100 years this year, Parque Metropolitano de Santiagois the fourth largest urban park in the world and extends into four communes: Huechuraba, Providencia, REcoleta and Vitacura. For walking, picnicking, biking or hiking up Cerro San Cristobal, this park is central to Santiago, both geographically and culturally. http://instagram.com/p/BVzqCbRj4wH/?tagged=parquemetropolitanodesantiago&hl=es
Parque Bicentenario
Park
Located in the municipality of Vitacura, along the Mapocho River, Parque Bicentenario is a perfect place for those seeking green space. Prominent in the park is North lake, where flamingos, herons and black-necked swans live alongside one another. Come with friends or family and take part in the many community activities that take place here.
Parque Quinta Normal
Park
Rooted in tradition, Parque Qunita Normal is a wonderful place to walk and soak up some history. Founded in 1841, it was the first urban park in Chile. Whether you walk along the lake or step into the greenhouse, a national monument, this park is a great place to spend the afternoon. Other attractions such as the National Museum of Natural History and Versailles Palace are located within the park.
Parque Araucano
Located in Las Condes commune, Parque Araucano is full of activities. Swimming, biking, skating, picnicking and walking are all possible. Come rest or play in this integral green space of Santiago.
Parque O’Higgins
Amusement Park, Aquarium, Park
Boasting a couple of museums, an aquarium, lakes, sports club, gardens and an amusement park, Parque O’Higgins is full to the brim – of activities and people. Stop by and see what all the excitement is about.
Parque Forestal
Museum
A gateway to the Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Contemporary Art, Parque Forestal is a lovely place to stroll along the south bank of the Mapocho River. You’ll want to take some great photos while in the area, so make sure you bring a camera! http://instagram.com/p/BR46MdFBupE/?tagged=parqueforestalsantiago&hl=es
Jardin Castillo Hidalgo
This garden houses Castillo Hidalgo (Hidalgo Castle) at the top of Santa Lucía hill. For a walk through history, head over to this Spanish style gem, with benches and fountains and plenty of shade, thanks to the abundance of trees.