Explore Santiago's Historic Center
Discover the cultural and historical heart of Santiago with a tour of its main landmarks.
Top hotels & flights
Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Región Metropolitana.
Top Hotels in Región Metropolitana
Top Flights to Región Metropolitana
Popular activities
Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Región Metropolitana.
Tours
Visit to Cerro San Cristóbal
Enjoy a panoramic view of Santiago from the top of Cerro San Cristóbal.
Art and Culture at the Chilean National Museum of Fine Arts
Explore Chilean and international masterpieces at the leading fine arts museum in Santiago.
Nightlife in Bellavista
Experience Santiago's vibrant nightlife in the eclectic neighborhood of Bellavista.
Shopping
Shopping in Costanera Center
Explore Santiago's largest shopping mall with a wide variety of retail stores and restaurants.
Visit to Pueblito Los Dominicos
Discover traditional Chilean crafts at a charming artisanal market.
Outdoor
Hiking in the Andes Mountains
Experience the breathtaking natural beauty of the Andes with a guided hiking tour.
Cycling in Parque Bicentenario
Enjoy a relaxing day cycling in a beautiful park in the heart of Santiago.
Snow Adventure at Valle Nevado
Experience skiing and snowboarding in one of Chile's top ski resorts.
Location videos
Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.
From travelers
Watch & explore
Practical info
The essentials for planning your time in Región Metropolitana.
Currency
CLP | Chilean Peso | Chilean Peso
Population
8.3 million
Languages
Spanish, Spanish
Local guide
What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Región Metropolitana.
What people love
The Región Metropolitana, also known as the Santiago Metropolitan Region, is the capital and largest city of Chile. Here are some pros of traveling to the Región Metropolitana:
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Cultural Attractions: Santiago, the capital city of Chile, offers a rich cultural experience with a mix of historic and modern attractions. Visitors can explore museums, art galleries, theaters, and cultural centers to learn about the country's history and art scene.
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Food and Drink: Santiago is a culinary hub with a wide range of dining options, from traditional Chilean cuisine to international flavors. Visitors can enjoy delicious food and local wines in the city's many restaurants, cafes, and markets.
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Outdoor Activities: The Región Metropolitana is surrounded by natural beauty, including the Andes Mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking in the nearby areas, providing a perfect balance between urban and natural experiences.
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Shopping: Santiago is a great destination for shopping, with a variety of malls, markets, and boutique stores offering everything from local handicrafts to designer goods. Visitors can shop for souvenirs, clothing, and unique items to take back home.
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Accessibility: The Región Metropolitana is well-connected by public transportation, including buses and the metro, making it easy for travelers to navigate the city and explore its different neighborhoods and attractions.
Overall, traveling to the Región Metropolitana offers a diverse range of experiences, from cultural and culinary delights to outdoor adventures and shopping opportunities.
What to know
Some potential cons of traveling to Región Metropolitana in Chile's Región Metropolitana include:
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Air pollution: Santiago, the capital city located in Región Metropolitana, often faces air pollution issues due to traffic congestion, industrial activities, and geographical factors that trap pollutants in the valley where the city is situated. This can negatively impact air quality and visibility, especially for those with respiratory conditions.
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Traffic congestion: Santiago is known for its heavy traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. This can lead to delays in getting around the city and may affect travel plans or cause frustration for visitors trying to navigate the busy streets.
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High cost of living: As the economic and cultural center of Chile, Región Metropolitana, especially Santiago, has a relatively high cost of living compared to other parts of the country. Accommodation, dining, and entertainment expenses may be higher than in other regions, which could impact travelers on a budget.
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Climate variations: While Santiago enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild winters, the city can experience temperature inversions in the colder months, leading to smog and poor air quality. Additionally, the region is prone to occasional earthquakes and wildfires, which could disrupt travel plans or pose safety concerns.
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Limited green spaces: Despite efforts to improve urban parks and green areas, Santiago still has fewer green spaces per capita compared to other major cities. This lack of greenery may be a downside for nature lovers or those seeking outdoor recreational activities within the city.
It's essential to note that these potential cons may vary depending on individual preferences and travel priorities. It's always recommended to research thoroughly and consider these factors when planning a trip to Región Metropolitana, Chile.