As the capital of Chile, Santiago has a lot to offer visitors. Sandwiched between mountains and ocean, the city is not only surrounded by natural beauty but also has a vibrant atmosphere and great cultural attractions!

Finding where to stay in this sprawling city of over 5 million people can be tricky, however, especially if you are looking to stick to the safest areas.

That is why we’ve created this guide to where to stay in Santiago! We have categorised each area into what it is best for, and we are sure you will be able to find the best place for your itinerary.

So let’s get started with a rundown of the best areas.

Quick Tips – Where to Stay in Santiago

• Where to stay in Santiago for your first time? Providencia
• Where to stay in Santiago close to everything? Centro
• Where to stay in Santiago for nightlife? Bellavista
• Best neighborhood in Santiago for families? Las Condes
• Where to stay in Santiago on a budget? Barrio Brasil
• Where to stay in Santiago for couples? Barrio Italia
• Where to stay in Santiago for culture? Lastarria

Where to Stay in Santiago

Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for accommodation in Santiago!

Santiago 7 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in

Let’s take a look, in more detail, at the seven best neighbourhoods in Santiago. Each caters to different interests, so be sure to pick the neighbourhood that’s right for you.

Neighborhood #1 – Providencia

 Best neighbourhood in Santiago for your first time!

• COOLEST thing to do in Providencia – sample the many culinary delights in the area
• BEST place to visit in Providencia – climb the highest building in South America

Providencia is a great place to stay for your first time in Santiago due to its location connecting the historic neighbourhoods with the artistic areas. Though it is a little pricier than other areas, it is well worth it thanks to the excellent food, bustling shopping centres and lively cultural venues available across the region!

It is also home to the Gran Torre – the tallest building in South America where you can gain spectacular views over the city and surrounding landscapes. Providencia has a slightly more reserved nightlife district – this area truly has it all!

• Enjoy a stroll or bike ride through the Cerro San Cristóbal
• Indulge in some shopping at the Costanera Centre
• Tantalise the tastebuds – or enjoy a light drink – at Orrego Luco
• Sample some great coffee on Colon, or simply admire the picturesque street
• Enjoy seafood at the wide range of restaurants – with sushi being particularly popular with locals
• Check out events – such as concerts and football games – at the National Stadium located in the heart of Providencia
• Many of the mountain tours are based here, so head to their stores to embark on an adventure

Best Budget Hotel in Providencia

Travel Place Lyon

Despite being budget-friendly, Travel Place Lyon is an incredible hotel with great amenities. The apartments are kitted out with high-quality, modern facilities. There is even a swimming pool on the rooftop, boasting spectacular views across Santiago! This is by far one of the best options if you want your money to go further.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Providencia

Hotel Boutique Reyall

Hotel Boutique Reyall has clean, modern, and comfortable facilities perfect for guests looking for a basic and relaxed stay in Santiago. The hotel also has a prime location in the center of the Providencia district and is just a 10-minute walk from Los Leones metro station and 20 minutes from the Costanera Center shopping mall!

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Best Luxury Hotel in Providencia

NH Ciudad de Santiago

This luxurious hotel is located right next to a subway station. The rooms are spacious, with walk-in wardrobes and work areas. If you need to get some work done in Santiago, this is a fantastic splurge option! Full breakfasts are provided every morning to guests.

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Santiago is alive! And you’ll find these party hostels have some of the best events around!

Neighborhood #2 – Centro

 Where to stay in Santiago close to everything!

• COOLEST thing to do in Centro – climb to the top of Santa Lucia hill for breathtaking views
• BEST place to visit in Centro – enjoy the beautiful architecture of the historic buildings in Plaza de Armas

The historic centre – known simply as Centro to locals – is the main hub of Chile and where many tourists focus their time. This is the best place to discover the history of the nation and sample the unique quirks of Chilean culture.

As the main centre, it is also well connected to the rest of the city – with the artistic and upmarket areas all being within easy travelling distance. If you are only in Santiago for a few days, this is a great place to base yourself to get a flavour of the city.

• Learn about Chile’s colonial past at the Colonial Museum
• Discover indigenous art dating back centuries at the Pre-Columbian Art Museum
• Visiting with family? The Fantasiland Amusement Park is a great choice with plenty of rides for kids and adults alike.
• Head to the Central Market to sample Chilean cuisine and buy some ingredients to try making them yourself
• Visit Catedral Metropolitana for an idea of the importance of religion to Chilean society
• Walk along the Paseo Ahumada – a pedestrian-only street where you can discover cool bars and restaurants, as well as local boutiques

Best Budget Hotel in Centro

Hotel Sommelier

This express option is another great hotel in Chile for letting your cash go further. Hotel Sommelier boasts a full spa and wellness centre, as well as a buffet breakfast each morning and a decent on-site bar. Need to unwind? Book a massage session with hotel staff!

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Centro

Novapark, Santiago

This hotel has all the facilities you would look for in a modern and boutique hotel in Santiago. On-site at Novapark you will find a bar and coffee shop, air-conditioned rooms, a 24-hour reception, and a swanky shared lounge area. It also has a great location in the historical center of the city, close to an abundance of cool shops and restaurants.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Centro

Hotel Plaza San Francisco

This gorgeous hotel is well located and has excellent facilities. Besides an indoor pool and fitness centre, Hotel Plaza San Francisco also has a large spa with many bookable holistic therapies to enjoy during your stay! A high-quality breakfast is provided each morning for guests.

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Neighborhood #3 – Bellavista

 Where to stay in Santiago for nightlife!

• COOLEST thing to do in Bellavista – hike up Cerro San Cristobal and discover many great attractions
• BEST place to visit in Bellavista – head to Patio Bellavista to experience the best of Santiago nightlife

Bellavista is, without a doubt, the hub for Chilean nightlife! This neighbourhood has a wide range of bars and clubs to suit all tastes – from pop music to techno to heavy metal. The drinks are generally budget friendly, but there are some more upmarket venues if you are looking to splurge.

It’s also a great place to discover alternative culture – and the many LGBT friendly areas are within Bellavista. Looking for a break from the partying? Like Providencia, Bellavista borders Cerro San Cristóbal, a perfect trek for clearing your head.

• Head to neighbouring Recoleta for a similar bohemian vibe with a more relaxed feel
• Check out the many independent art galleries, coffee shops and boutiques in this hipster wonderland
• Learn about the life of Pablo Neruda – one of Chile’s most famous writers – at La Chascona.
• Get a more local experience at the craft markets bordering Bellavista
• Want to sample traditional Chilean food? Head to Calle Constitución – said to have some of the best bites in the city.
• Learn salsa, cumbia and a variety of other Latin American dance styles at the numerous dance bars across Bellavista

Best Budget Hotel in Bellavista

Nativa Hotel Boutique

This hotel is situated in a refurbished 1920s home, letting you experience a little bit of Chilean history! There is a communal terrace and garden, allowing you to experience the best features of the hostel with the privacy of your own room. Luxury amenities are provided in each room.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Bellavista

Hotel Boutique Santiago Suite

Hotel Boutique Santiago Suite has a traditional and grand design with polished wooden furnishings and magnificent paintings scattered throughout the property. It also has a fantastic location just a 3-minute walk from Patio Bellavista.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Bellavista

Sheraton Santiago Hotel & Convention Center

The famous chain of Sheraton always tend to pull out all the best stop for a luxurious stay, and we have to stay their Santiago branch is one of their best. A hotel with a grand design, all the rooms are immaculate and provide guests with incredibly modern facilities. The hotel also has a huge outdoor pool which is a spectacle to see.

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MUST READ – These are the top hostels in Valparaiso, Chile

Neighborhood #4 – Las Condes

 Best neighbourhood in Santiago for families!

• COOLEST thing to do in Las Condes – head up Cerro Manquehue and admire the sunset
• BEST place to visit in Las Condes – let the kids run wild at KidZania Santiago

Las Condes is a little further out of the centre, but nevertheless still packed with great activities. It’s location ensures a calm and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for visiting with a family. Though it is on the expensive side, this area is one of the safest in Santiago!

We have chosen Las Condes as the best area for families due to the wide range of activities to please kids and adults alike. The KidZania theme park is perfect for kids that are a little frustrated by the more cultural and historical attractions of Centro, and there are some great shopping malls for picking up souvenirs and clothing.

• Travel to the nearby La Cordillera for some skiing during the winter season
• Shop ‘til you drop at the Parque Araucano mall – filled with international and local brands
• Go stargazing at the Cerro Calán Observatory – also located in Parque Araucano
• Salivate over the delectable tiramisus on offer at the excellent Italian restaurants across the district
• Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of Parque Bicentenario and admire the European style landscaping
• More interested in locally crafted goods? Head to Los Dominicos Village and pick up a bargain
• Enjoy some fantastic Latin American modern art at Ralli Museum

Best Budget Hotel in Las Condes

Norus Apartments Las Condes

This is a great budget option for families as guests stay in apartments rather than hotel rooms. During the summer months, there is an excellent outdoor pool – a rarity for Santiago! There’s also a fitness centre on site and free local calls for all guests. This is self-catering, however, each room has a kitchenette.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Las Condes

Icon Hotel

Wow! Is how you will react when you see the views from this hotel. Across the hostel, you will see spectacular sites of the nearby hill and mountain landscapes. This includes from the incredible rooftop pool and bar area which is the perfect place to watch the sunset with a drink or two.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Las Condes

DoubleTree by Hilton Santiago Vitacura

DoubleTree by Hilton has become a name synonymous with family holidays and comfort! Rooms in this hotel are well equipped with all the modern conveniences, and there is a fitness centre on-site. It is very well rated by previous guests, and a buffet breakfast is provided every morning.

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Neighborhood #5 – Barrio Brasil

 Where to stay in Santiago on a budget!

• COOLEST thing to do in Barrio Brasil – explore the graffiti lining the bohemian streets
• BEST place to visit in Barrio Brasil – for a more sobering experience, visit the Museum of Memory and Human Rights to learn about the Pinochet dictatorship.

Once one of Santiago’s wealthiest neighbourhoods, Barrio Brasil was evacuated after the 1985 earthquake. Recent renovation efforts have turned it into an up and coming area again filled with quirky street art, buzzing restaurants and local bars!

Barrio Brasil is also surrounded by other artistic neighbourhoods, making it a great spot if you are interested in creativity. The low prices make it an absolute dream for budget travellers – especially backpackers looking for somewhere a bit more unique! It is very safe throughout the day and becomes a relaxed nightlife spot in the evenings.

• People watch and soak up the artsy atmosphere at Plaza Brasil
• Visit the many independent galleries popping up among the abandoned buildings and discover local artists
• See where the street art trend began at Museo a Cielo Abierto – an open-air museum showcasing murals from the city’s most infamous artists
• Watch cueca dancing and drink the night away at El Huaso Enrique
• Head to the city’s wine hotspot – Vina Concho y Torro – and try out some samples while you’re there
• Head even further off the beaten track with the neighbouring Barrio Yungay – a little shady at night, but great during the day for underground culture

Best Budget Hotel in Barrio Brasil

Hotel La Castellana

This is a fairly basic hotel but is very well rated! Each room comes with all the facilities you need for your stay, and there is a tour booking desk available at reception. Hotel La Castellana is very popular with solo travellers looking for a bit more privacy than would be expected from a hostel.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Barrio Brasil

Hotel He Wang Santiago

The facilities at the Hotel He Wang Santiago are incredible! On-site at the property you will find a hot tub, 24-hour reception desk, boutique en-suite rooms along with private balconies with spectacular city views.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Barrio Brasil

Hotel Magnolia Santiago

Hotel Magnolia Santiago is a world-class and award-winning hotel located just outside of the trendy Barrio Brasil neighborhood. The hotel has an elegant and deluxe design and prides itself on having the highest comfort for its guests, with air conditioning and heating, extra-long beds, and boutique en-suite bathrooms.

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Neighborhood #6 – Barrio Italia

 Best neighborhood in Santiago for couples

• COOLEST thing to do in Barrio Italia – make your way around the excellent restaurants in Santiago’s Italian district
• BEST place to visit in Barrio Italia – head to Calle Caupolican to watch artisan furniture makers at work

Barrio Italia is somewhat of a hidden gem in Santiago. Often ignored for larger neighbouring districts, this area has a unique charm that will intrigue anyone curious enough to visit! Shaped by waves of Italian migration to Chile, Barrio Italia has some excellent restaurants that are still off the main tourist track.

Of the visitors who have made it to the neighbourhood, Italia is particularly popular with young couples looking for an excellent cultural experience away from the large crowds. The streets are lined with independent coffee shops, bursting antique stores and hidden attractions just waiting to be discovered by inquisitive minds!

• Head to Cafe de la Candelaria for an idyllic brunch with examples of the best coffee in Latin America
• Spend days shopping for quirky souvenirs, historic artefacts and bargains at the antique stores dotted around the area
• Looking for something more modern? Head to Amoble or RestaurArte to pick up some pieces from up and coming local designers
• Discover how the newest wave of migrants to the area are enhancing the local culture on Avenida Italia
• Vegan? This is the place to be in Santiago thanks to the excellent array of restaurants available

Best Budget Hotel in Barrio Italia

Hotel Elisa Cole

A small boutique hotel with super comfortable beds and great facilities including an on-site bar and super fast internet. Hotel Elisa Cole is a great place to stay in Barrio Italia if you’re on a budget. If you can stretch that budget a little, we would definitely recommend opting for a room with a balcony overlooking the neighborhood.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Barrio Italia

Italia Suite

With clean and modern facilities and a super friendly team of staff, is a great place to stay in Barrio Italia. It also has a fantastic location near boutique shops, tasty restaurants, and lively bars.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Barrio Italia

Maison Italia 1029

Maison Italia 1029 has a beautiful design, with it incorporating traditional and authentic Italian furnishings with modern and boutique facilities. It also is home to an incredible outdoor roof terrace that has some of the most spectacular mountain views in the city.

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Neighborhood #7 – Lastarria

 Where to stay in Santiago for culture!

• COOLEST thing to do in Lastarria – sample Chile’s best wine at BocaNariz
• BEST place to visit in Lastarria – head to the Museum of Fine Arts for exhibits of renowned Chilean and International artists

Last but not least we have Lastarria! Santiago as a whole is bustling with culture and hipster venues, and Lastarria is the epicentre of this. From independent cinemas and coffee shops to national galleries and high-class wine bars, Lastarria has everything to delight travellers seeking culture.

The well-connected neighbourhood is also relatively close to other major districts in Santiago, making it a great base for exploring the city. The streets have a very European atmosphere thanks to the pavements bustling with al fresco diners and street performers. In the evenings it is much quieter than other central neighbourhoods – perfect for getting a good night’s sleep!

• Head to El Biográfo to watch some independent movie releases – though keep in mind these are usually in Spanish
• Learn about local arts projects and how they serve the community at Cultural Centre Gabriela Mistral
• Step back in time in the quaint streets of Forest Park – enjoying the restaurants, cafés and bars along the way
• Head to the Singular Hotel and sit on the patio with a freshly prepared cocktail
• Taste ice cream that is famous across the city at Emporio La Rosa
• Pick up some souvenirs and handcrafted goods at Feria Artesanal

Best Budget Hotel in Lastarria

Hotel Montecarlo Santiago

This modern hotel is well located in the heart of Lastarria. All of the rooms come with excellent views over Cerro Santa Lucía – perfect for motivating you in the morning! Previous guests have left excellent reviews, in particular regarding the WiFi. This is, therefore, a great budget option for digital nomads and business visitors.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Lastarria

On-site at this hostel, you will find modern rooms, a tasty restaurant, and epic common areas. The hotel also has a fantastic location nearby the Universidad Católica Metro Station and the bustling main square of Plaza de Armas.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Lastarria

Casa Bueras Hotel

Casa Bueras is truly the creme de la creme of Santiago splurge hotels! The extravagant 1920s mansion has been fitted with ultra-modern amenities and classy designs. The ultra-chic pool is complemented by a full spa suite, and there is a terrace for guests to enjoy views over the city. A freshly prepared buffet breakfast is provided every morning.

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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Santiago?

Santiago is one of the coolest capitals in the world! It has become a real hub for hipster culture and modern creativity, with each district having its own distinct offering to the city’s arts scene. The beautiful setting between mountains and the Pacific Ocean make it one of the best destinations in Latin America.

We were really stuck when coming up with the best area in Santiago – but ultimately we went for Bairro Brasil! This neighbourhood has undergone a major revival over the past few years, bringing the next generation of culture and cuisine to the area and all at an excellent price point.

Nevertheless, any of the neighbourhoods in this guide would be a fantastic option! We hope that with a wide variety to choose from we have helped you to narrow down your options to the perfect neighbourhood for you.

Are we missing anything? Let us know in the comments!

Editor’s Note – No matter where you are traveling, you NEED to have great travel insurance. We have personally tested TONS of travel insurance companies, and can say without a doubt that World Nomads is the absolute best (and most affordable!). Fill out this form to get a quote for your trip to Santiago!

 

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