Holiday rentals and lettings in Santiago de Chile

Set on a plain near the foot of the Andes, Santiago boasts one of the most resplendent backdrops of any capital city on earth, a compact historic centre, thriving cultural and food scene, and pleasant atmosphere. Holiday rentals are concentrated along the No.1 metro line, providing easy and cheap access to all corners of the city. Look out for the lettings around Forestal Park. Just outside the central area, this is a beautiful base from where to explore the city in all its glory.

Lettings in Santiago are dominated by flats with 1 to 3 bedrooms, many with communal swimming pools, and at prices that will make you smile. Houses are fewer and far between, but if you don’t mind staying 30 minutes away from the centre you can find some simply spectacular lettings suitable for up to 16 people!

The city’s downtown district with its historical landmarks, architecture and eternally bustling Plaza de Armas is naturally the main draw for tourists. Just to the east and you come to Bellavista, a lively barrio with a bohemian reputation, a blend of art districts and some of the liveliest bars and nightclubs in the entire city.

Lastarria borders with Bellavista, and is a posh neighbourhood distinguished by its cobblestone streets, upscale dining and boutique shopping. Further out from the centre is Providencia, a pleasant middle-class barrio with few tourists and a really authentic Chilean feel. Just to the west of the centre is Barrio Brasil, lower class, a little more dilapidated, but perfectly safe. Its highlight is Plaza Brazil, which attracts musicians and street performers from all over the country.

Borrowing from its culture of indigenous, Hispanic, and European influences, Chilean gastronomy is undoubtedly one of the most enticing culinary scenes in South America. Be sure to try out Sopaipillas, delectable small disks of Andean pumpkin mixed with flour and fried in hot oil, wildly sold on the streets of Santiago. The ubiquitous Chacarero was named one of the most amazing sandwiches in the world by TIME Magazine and it’s easy to see why. Sold in cafes across the city, Chacarero is Chilean bread covered in homemade mayo and then piled high with sizzling slices of steak, green beans, sliced tomatoes and chile pepper. Top tip: For what is generally considered the best Chacarero in town, head to Bernardo O'Higgins 58.

Santiago is a museum arcadia, and you can spend a full week in this city exploring its cultural hotspots. Start your museum-hopping journey at the Museum of National History located in the gorgeous Royal Court Palace. Great dioramas, comprehensive information on the geographic regions and ecosystems of Chile, and engaging expositions for all ages. Added bonus: it is free on Sundays! The Museum of Memory and Human Rights should also be at the top of your list, a moving exposition to the many victims of human rights violations during the brutal regime of Augusto Pinochet.

Invented in a bar called La Piojera, it remains the best place to try this truly unique drink. Terremoto means earthquake, and you are duly warned. A half-litre concoction of sweet white wine, Fernet and pineapple ice cream, it’s seriously delicious and absolutely hits the spot!

For a panoramic view of Santiago, take the funicular up San Cristóbal, a big hill in the middle of the city. The best time to go is sunset; watching the night fall over the city will be a highlight of your trip. Tip: the clearest view you will ever get from the top is just after it rains.

Chile is world renowned for its wines, in particular its Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon reds. Maipo Valley, one of the country’s most prominent wine-producing regions, is a stone’s throw from the city. Vina el Principal is many peoples’ favourite winery to visit in the area, with its high elevation imparting a unique taste to the grapes. An hour south of the city, it is somewhat off the beaten track, but well worth the effort!

The most salubrious place in the city to catch a show, with world-class opera, choir, and ballet performance, is the Teatro Municipal, a beautiful neoclassical theatre built in 1857. Dress up and prepare to mingle with the city’s elite!

. See Santiago through the eyes of the locals at a weekend football match. The crowds can get pretty rowdy, chanting and jumping nearly the entire game, but it’s all in good spirits. Santiago and Chile’s top team is Universidad Catolica, with the stadium located right in the heart of the city.