Top Places for Art and Cultural Activities in Santiago

A trip to Santiago cannot be complete without understanding its rich heritage. The art and cultural activities in Santiago will give you an insight into the city's history, traditions, and artwork. While visiting the cultural attractions in Santiago would prove to be informative, attending its artsy events will leave you entertained. From cultural performances to historical monuments that give you a glimpse of the past, take a look at this list to know Santiago better. Include these in attractions in your itinerary for Santiago and have a great vacation.

Check the list of top places for art and culture in Santiago:

  1. Santiago Metropolitan Cathedral

    Religious Site, Architecture , Cathedral

    Known for its gorgeous neo-classical architecture, the Metropolitan Cathedral was built during the second half of the 18th century. Further embellishments were added to the cathedral during the 19th century- making it one of the most beautiful buildings in Santiago till date. The Cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of Santiago de Chile and overlooks the Plaza de Armas and is surrounded by o...Read more
  2. Barrio Lastarria

    Museum, Walking Area, Food And Drinks, Cafe

    The neighborhood of Lastarria or Barrio Lastarria is one of the most beautifully maintained historic places in Chile and you can take a walk through pathways which embracehouses built in the 19th century, a burst of cafes and restaurants and a bohemian ambience which is simply Chile at its best! The barrio is loved for carrying its history and the culture of Chile through its architectural marv...Read more
  3. La Moneda Palace

    4.5 (638 Votes)
    La Moneda Palace

    Palace, Architecture

    La Moneda is the Presidential office of Chile and reflects a regal yet splendid architectural design. Created by an Italian architect in the late 18th century, the place is loved for its neo-classical layout and design and overlooks the Plaza de La Ciudadania. Today, after surviving a missile attack, the place has since been reconstructed and cherished for it stories and history. Take a tour he...Read more
  4. Museo Chileno De Arte Precolombino

    Art And Culture, History Museum

    The Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino showcases America’s Pre-Columbian treasures. The museum was founded in 1981 by Sergio Larrain Garcia Moreno- a Chilean Philanthropist. His donation of ancient American art and artifacts has been matched over years by generous donation especially that of Latin American historic objects and art. The museum celebrates the native-American history and is ...Read more
  5. Centro Cultural Palacio De La Moneda

    Art And Culture, Art Gallery, Entertainment, Theatre

    The cultural center is loved for its wide variety of activities, exhibitions and movies which cover everything about the culture (historic as well as evolving) of America. Designed by Chilean architect Cristián Undurraga and functioning since 2006, the whole center covers a large part to the south of the Moneda Palace. The place hosts temporary and permanent exhibitions and also has its ...Read more
  6. Santuario De La Inmaculada Concepcion

    Church, Religious Site

    The Santuario de la Inmaculada Concepcion is known for its beautiful panoramic view of Santiago from the church that sits on top of the hill. The church arranges Sunday masses. If you don’t mind hiking, walk through the serene hiking trail to reach the church. For others who are not up for hiking, there is a funicular ride which takes you to the church. Yet another of Santiago’s cha...Read more
  7. Iglesia De San Francisco

    4.6 (103 Votes)
    Iglesia De San Francisco

    Church, Religious Site, Architecture , Cathedral

    The San Francisco Church is the oldest building in Santiago and dates back to the 16th century. The clock tower was added during the 1800s and is the forth one to be installed here after the earthquake took a toll on them. The church itself has survived several earthquakes with only the originally tower being replaced for the fourth time. Due to its Neo-gothic style of architecture, the church ...Read more
  8. Isidora Goyenechea

    Walking Area, Food And Drinks, Club, Restaurant

    The Isidora Goyenechea is a posh neighborhood in Santiago where you will find high-end restaurants, beautiful residential places and boutique cafes-ideal to drop by to grab a bite after a stroll through the area. There are rarely any night hubs or clubs here but the place is still ideal for a late evening walk if you love modern spaces which are tranquil. The place does have a few shops but is ...Read more
  9. Basilica De La Merced

    4.7 (82 Votes)
    Basilica De La Merced

    Church, Religious Site

    Originally built in the 16th century, the first church succumbed to the earthquakes in 1647 and 1730. The present day church was built in the 18th century in neo-Renaissance style and is loved for its larger-than-life interiors. The highlight of the church is the alter which holds an image of the Virgin Mary dating back to the 16th century, brought here by the Mercedian priests. The museum has ...Read more
  10. Municipal Theater Of Santiago

    Entertainment, Performance, Theatre, Architecture

    The Municipal Theater is a dip in history with Opera, Ballet, Symphonic and Chamber concerts and other performances taking stage in the beautiful building built in the 18th century. The theatre stays true to the traditional way of Opera performances with the acoustical design providing a wholesome sound without any microphones. If you love performing arts, history and architecture, the theater ...Read more
  11. Barrio Paris- Londres

    4.6 (61 Votes)
    Barrio Paris- Londres

    Neighborhoods

    Cobbled streets, old-word mansions with Parisian style and several small hostels and shops that hug the streets; the Barrio Paris Londres is a charming neighborhood in Santiago like no other place in the city. The small lanes with its tranquil buildings make for lovely photographs and walking through the place is simply the best way to absorb its ambience. The place is not a ‘touristy&rsq...Read more
  12. Biblioteca Nacional De Chile

    Library, Architecture

    The National Library of Chile was completely constructed in 1925 and was founded by calling upon the Public to donate books for its collection. Many circumstances have closed the National Library during its history but the place still managed to survive and today, it is home to an extensive collection of books and manuscripts- some of which have a vivid importance in human history. Book lovers ...Read more
  13. Vitacura

    Walking Area, Food And Drinks, Restaurant, Market

    Vitacura neighborhood is the elite part of Santiago with high end restaurants, private schools and colleges. For tourists and locals, the neighborhood is simply one of the most sought-out places if you are looking for shopping at the most luxurious retail shops in the world. The place has Louis Vuitton, Adidas, Tommy Hilfiger, United Colors of Benetton and Salavtore Ferragamo among many others ...Read more
  14. Cementerio General De Santiago

    Cemetery, Sculpture

    The General Cemetery is the resting place of some of the most Notable personalities of Chile including famous artists and political figures. The cemetery is also the resting place of the victims of the human rights violations in Chile.  The place is a whole new world within itself with beautiful sculptures that imitate melancholic emotions, tours that take you through the journey of the ce...Read more
  15. Centro Cultural Estacion Mapocho

    Entertainment, Performance, Concert, Architecture

    The Centro Cultural Estacion Mapocho used to be a Railway station from 1914 to 1897. Its European facades with high arches are some of the best architectural techniques used in Santiago during that time. Today the place is transformed into a cultural center with regular events, workshops, concerts and conventions. Many artists have performed here including Elvis Presley and since then, the plac...Read more