Santiago landmarks from the civic center to the hills

Why go

Plaza de Armas and the Catedral Metropolitana de Santiago place you in the historic civic center, where public space and religious architecture meet. La Moneda adds the seat of government, while Cerro Santa Lucía brings a landscaped rise and a view across the city. Together these landmarks give first-time visitors distinct ways to read Santiago’s past and present.

Useful to know

• Treat the hill as the more physical choice; the civic squares suit a shorter, flatter visit.
• Check current access arrangements before planning to enter La Moneda.

The route, stop by stop

1. 01

   Optional · – min

   Plaza de Armas

   Start here to understand Santiago’s original center and to orient yourself among its major historic facades. The square is a public outdoor stop; surrounding museums and churches are separate visits.

   Explore

2. Walk · 12 min · Estimated

   02

   Optional · – min

   Cerro Santa Lucía

   Climb this landscaped hill in central Santiago for terraces, fountains and a city lookout. Its stone stairways reward a slower visit, especially if you want a short break from the surrounding streets.

   Explore