"Framed by magnificent snow-capped mountains our historic city boasts an array of resplendent landmarks, delicious restaurants and buzzing bars worthy of any great capital city."
Many of city's rustic charms have been lost to the ravages of earthquakes and the spectacular setting can be obscured at times by the pall of smog, but dramatic scenery and ski resorts are a short drive away.
Like any modern capital, home to more than 5 million residents Santiago has a youthful buzz about it with a general feeling that the up and coming city is yet to have its day.
There's no denying it's busy and bustling with more than 40 per cent of Chileans living in the greater Santiago area but the natives are a warm and welcoming bunch.
Santiago's climate is more Mediterranean summer than tropical warmth but at its peak the temperature will push 35°C so don't forget the sunscreen if you're visiting between November and March.
Like most South American cities Santiago is rightfully boastful of its beef. Every cut of cow, from rare rump steak to cow udders is on sale within the city and is considered a Chilean delicacy.
The internationally renowned South American poet, Pablo Neruda, was born and raised in Santiago. As was the famous US comedian, Horatio Sanz.
Santiago is the capital, and largest city in Chile.
“On a clear day, fresh after winter showers, Santiago basks in one of the most spectacular settings of any city in the world.” – Lonely Planet
This extensive park is home to more than 160 mammals, birds and reptiles including native species like condors and pumas as well as crowd-pleasing creatures like tigers and bears.
There is an onsite car park.
Despite repeated damage in the city's incessant earthquakes, Catedral de Santiago, has been lovingly rebuilt and remodelled in a whimsical baroque style that is well worth a visit. It's the oldest, largest cathedral in the Americas.
“On a clear day, fresh after winter showers, Santiago basks in one of the most spectacular settings of any city in the world.” – Lonely Planet
Originally built to showcase the biology and geography of Chile, the museum is one of the oldest natural history museums in America. A must for history buffs but the collection includes something for everyone.
This atmospheric cemetery, surrounded by palm trees and lush gardens is the final resting place of all but two of Chile's former presidents as well as memorial to those who were 'disappeared' under Pinochet's regime.
Find free parking space in Echaurren.
Towering 3,000m (9,843ft) above sea level, Valle Nevado ski resort has some of the highest quality snow in Chile along with a host of hotels and restaurants perfect for a family break away.
Head north-eastwards out of the city and onto the G-21. The 19-mile journey should take around 45 minutes.
If you're tired of the chilly slopes a two-hour drive from Santiago brings you to the Cauquenes Hot Springs, some of Chile's oldest thermal waters, which are reputed to provide relief from rheumatic and skin conditions. Prepare to leave feeling cleansed and invigorated.
Find the springs 73 miles south of Santiago.
The Andean landscape is full of contrasts from staggering peaks to luscious lagoons all on show throughout the Río Los Cipreses reserve. For the truly intrepid there's also the odd glacier to be found.
Los Cipreses are a mere 9 miles on from Cauquenes Hot Springs.
Originally formed by two railroad technicians with a penchant for winter sports, the slopes were built as a by-product of the Chilean railway in. It's a laid-back resort, but with child-friendly facilities and slopes that cater from never-evers to experts.
Ski Portillo is a two-hour drive from Santiago on thee International Highway.
This extensive park is home to more than 160 mammals, birds and reptiles including native species like condors and pumas as well as crowd-pleasing creatures like tigers and bears.
There is an onsite car park.
Despite repeated damage in the city's incessant earthquakes, Catedral de Santiago, has been lovingly rebuilt and remodelled in a whimsical baroque style that is well worth a visit. It's the oldest, largest cathedral in the Americas.
“On a clear day, fresh after winter showers, Santiago basks in one of the most spectacular settings of any city in the world.” – Lonely Planet
Originally built to showcase the biology and geography of Chile, the museum is one of the oldest natural history museums in America. A must for history buffs but the collection includes something for everyone.
This atmospheric cemetery, surrounded by palm trees and lush gardens is the final resting place of all but two of Chile's former presidents as well as memorial to those who were 'disappeared' under Pinochet's regime.
Find free parking space in Echaurren.