Discover Santiago through its history, street life and local flavours on this immersive walking tour in the historic centre of Chile’s capital.
We begin our experience at Metro Moneda, next to Palacio de La Moneda, one of the most important political and historical landmarks in Chile. From there, we enter the Centro Cultural La Moneda, an underground cultural space that hosts constantly changing exhibitions. Each visit is different, offering a unique opportunity to connect with Chilean art, memory and identity. At the moment, the exhibition focuses on Chilean cinema, allowing us to explore how film has reflected the country’s social and cultural history.
As we continue walking through city centre Santiago, we talk about the city’s origins, its transformations over time and the contrasts between past and present. Our route leads us towards Plaza de Armas, the place where Santiago was founded in 1541 and still one of the most vibrant meeting points of the city.
In Plaza de Armas, we observe the surrounding architecture, including the Metropolitan Cathedral and historic buildings that reveal different periods of Chilean history. Here, you will also experience one of the most iconic expressions of Chilean street culture: the chinchinero.
A chinchinero is a traditional Chilean street musician who plays multiple percussion instruments attached to their body while dancing and spinning. This performance requires extraordinary coordination, rhythm and physical skill. It is a living tradition passed down through generations and an important symbol of popular culture in Chile.
It is important to know that tips for the chinchinero are not included in the tour. Giving money is part of the tradition and also how these artists earn a living. We recommend bringing cash, usually from 1,000 Chilean pesos and up, depending on what you wish to give.
To close the experience, we enjoy a taste of classic Chilean street food.
You can choose between a completo or an empanada, both deeply rooted in local everyday life.
The completo is Chile’s version of a hot dog, but taken to another level. It is usually topped with ingredients like avocado, tomato, mayonnaise and sauces, making it one of the most loved and iconic foods in the country.
The empanada is a baked pastry filled with different ingredients. The most traditional is empanada de pino, filled with beef, onion, egg, olives and spices. Another popular option is cheese empanada, simple and delicious. Both are staples of Chilean cuisine and part of family and street food culture.
Your food is accompanied by water or soft drink, just like locals enjoy it.
This Santiago walking tour is ideal for travellers who want more than sightseeing. It’s an opportunity to understand the city through its stories, art, music and flavours, guided by a local who invites you to experience Santiago from the inside out.
