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Planning a trip to Santiago and not sure where to stay? We’ve got you covered!
Chile’s vibrant capital is all about the mountain views and city energy with hilltop lookouts, leafy parks, museums, street art, and seriously great food and wine. But the city is quite spread out, so the neighborhood you choose to base yourself in can really shape your trip.
We have visited many times and explored every corner of Santiago to find the safest and most convenient areas to stay. In this guide, we’ll break down the top 5 neighborhoods, what they’re like, who they suit, plus our go-to hotel picks for every budget. Let’s find your perfect base!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
This is the hotel and area we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP!
Our personal FAVORITE area to stay is Providencia! It’s central, safe, and ideal for first-timers, with leafy streets and great restaurants!
We loved staying at Solace Hotel Santiago, with its modern design, rooftop terrace, and unbeatable location near the metro!
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Where to Stay in Santiago Map
- Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Santiago
- Important Tip
- Where to Stay in Santiago, Chile
- Top Activities to do in Santiago, Chile
- Thanks for reading!
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Where to Stay in Santiago Map
Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Santiago
Choosing the right base in Santiago makes everything easier—from sightseeing to morning coffee runs. Like most South American capitals, the historic center isn’t the safest area to stay, and I don’t recommend being around Plaza de Armas after dark. The metro is clean, safe, and reliable, and Uber/Cabify are cheap and convenient, which means you can stay in a safer neighborhood a little farther out and still reach all the sights quickly.
The neighborhoods below each have distinct personalities and price points—from modern and affluent to artsy and central—so whatever vibe you’re after and however you like to travel, you’ll find a spot that fits!
- Providencia – Modern, safe, and convenient; aim to stay near Line 1 between Tobalaba and Manuel Montt to easily get around the city. Solace Hotel Santiago delivers chic design, a mellow rooftop, and steps-to-metro ease.
- Lastarria/Bellas Artes – A trendy, historical, safe pocket beside the centro with excellent restaurants, bars, and galleries. Hotel Cumbres Lastarria puts you in the thick of it with contemporary rooms and a rooftop terrace and pool.
- Las Condes – Affluent, polished, and calm at night, with leafy parks and big malls (hotels tend to be pricier). Plaza El Bosque Ebro offers roomy suites and hotel perks near El Golf/Tobalaba without five-star rates.
- Bellavista – For boho vibes with great nightlife, Bellavista is full of culture, murals, and music. Hotel Boutique Castillo Rojo is a romantic 1920s mansion steps from Patio Bellavista and La Chascona.
- Barrio Brasil – Historic, relaxed, and close to the center, this area is popular with younger travelers and bargain hunters. Matildas Hotel Boutique charms with a restored townhouse, high ceilings, and a leafy courtyard.
Important Tip
Multiple Santiago trips have taught us that this island doesn’t reward spontaneity when it comes to planning. The good places get snapped up months in advance, leaving the overpriced and underwhelming options for last-minute travelers.
The sweet spot for booking Santiago Island accommodations is 3-4 months out—enough time to secure good rates but not so far ahead that you’re locking in plans excessively early.
Where to Stay in Santiago, Chile
Providencia
Providencia is the sweet spot for first-timers: safe, central, modern, and conveniently close to Metro Line 1 – perfect for zipping across town. Days here start with a stroll along the Mapocho River and the open-air Parque de las Esculturas, then shopping and lunch at the Costanera Center complex.
Cap it off at Sky Costanera, the 300-meter observatory with 360° views of the city and the Andes—one of Santiago’s must-dos. Foodies will love the Manuel Montt corridor, packed with casual eateries and cocktail bars, and active travelers can walk to the Parquemet (Cerro San Cristóbal) entrance for a ride on the teleférico.
The neighborhood strikes a nice balance between residential calm and city energy, so you get the feel of a local area without sacrificing convenience. Tree-lined avenues and café culture give it a relaxed charm that makes downtime just as enjoyable as sightseeing.
It’s a practical, comfortable base that works for couples, families, and business travelers alike, with plenty of mid-range and upscale hotels clustered between Tobalaba and Manuel Montt stations so you’re never far from a train, taxi, or late-night empanada.
Pros
- Well-lit, walkable streets; excellent metro access
- Sky-high views, parks, and major shopping in easy reach
Cons
- Can feel business-y around the towers
- Prices are higher close to the Costanera Center
AC Hotel by Marriott Santiago Costanera Center — $$$
If you want sleek design and zero-fuss convenience, the AC Hotel by Marriott Santiago Cenco Costanera nails it. The minimalist rooms feel calm and contemporary, with floor-to-ceiling windows, comfy beds, and well-placed USBs so you can charge while you unwind.
Being close to the Costanera Center complex means shopping and casual eats are just moments away. Downstairs, the lobby lounge is an easy meet-up spot, while the bar makes one of the best pre-dinner pisco sours I’ve ever had. Fitness fans have a solid gym, and business travelers will appreciate the quiet workspaces and reliable Wi-Fi.
It’s an easy, polished base that lets you focus on the fun parts of Santiago while it takes care of the rest! You’ll find rates here starting around $140 and going up to $450 USD per night, depending on the room.
For modern comfort in a convenient spot, book this stay here!
Solace Hotel Santiago — $$
Solace Hotel Santiago blends boutique style with practicality in one of Providencia’s best spots. The rooms are warm and modern—think soft woods, clean lines, big windows, and a bed I genuinely looked forward to at the end of the day. The mornings start with a quality breakfast (included in some rates), and the rooftop terrace is a great place to unwind with sunset views over the city.
We loved how close it was to Pedro de Valdivia station, which made it easy to get across town, while the surrounding streets were lined with cafés, bakeries, and wine bars. The atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between stylish and welcoming, making it feel like a true home base. Rooms here typically range from $95 to $230 USD per night, depending on the dates and room type.
Book this stylish stay here—this popular hotel sells out fast!
Almasur Providencia — $
The Almasur Providencia is a smart choice if you want a clean, comfortable base in Providencia without the higher price points. Rooms are bright and unfussy, with everything you need and nothing you don’t, and the additional facilities like outdoor pool, fitness center, and lounge give you space to regroup between outings.
But the location is the real perk: close to the metro and surrounded by easy dining, so it’s painless to bounce between neighborhoods during the day and grab something quick at night. The breakfast buffet was surprisingly generous, and staff are happy to help with directions or restaurant ideas.
If you’re planning to spend most of your time exploring and just want a dependable place to recharge, this is it! Prices range from $195 to $200 USD per night, with suites on the higher end of that scale.
Grab this budget-friendly base here before it’s gone!
Lastarria / Bellas Artes
Lastarria/Bellas Artes is our go-to area when we want a central address with character rather than chaos. It sits right beside the historic core but feels like its own little bubble—think walkable blocks, shady trees, and streets lined with cafés, wine bars, galleries, and small theaters.
By day, you can wander Parque Forestal, pop into the Fine Arts Museum and MAVI, and climb Cerro Santa Lucía for city views without ever needing a taxi. By night, the neighborhood stays lively with tons of restaurants, wine bars, and sidewalk tables instead of booming clubs.
It’s an easy base for first-timers, couples, and solo travelers who value culture and convenience. You’re close to multiple metro stops, so getting to Providencia, Bellavista, or even farther afield is straightforward. Weekends bring craft markets and buskers, while weekdays feel local and relaxed.
Rooms in this area tend to be smaller and in older buildings (but that’s part of the charm), so light sleepers may want to request a courtyard or higher floor to keep the noise down. Use your usual city smarts at night, but overall, it’s a safe pocket with plenty of people around. If you like to step out the door and immediately be somewhere interesting, this is your neighborhood!
Pros
- Central and walkable to museums, theaters, and Santa Lucía
- Cultural area with lively ambiance and many cafés, bistros, and bars
- Multiple metro stops nearby for easy citywide access
Cons
- Boutique hotels can book out early
- Street noise on weekend evenings in busy areas
Hotel Magnolia Santiago — $$$
Housed in a beautifully restored 1920s mansion, Hotel Magnolia Santiago layers heritage details like polished wood, ironwork, and soaring ceilings with crisp, contemporary design. The rooftop terrace is a little oasis for a glass of Chilean wine and twilight city views, and the on-site restaurant serves delicious local dishes with a modern twist.
Step outside and you’re moments from Santa Lucía Hill and an easy walk to Lastarria’s indie galleries, bistros, and bars. The service is also next level with concierge service and even an in-room massage service to unwind after a long day of exploring.
For travelers who love design, history, and a central yet intimate base, Magnolia delivers. Room rates typically cost between $200 and $500 USD per night, varying by category.
Secure your stay at this boutique 5-star gem today!
Hotel Cumbres Lastarria — $$
Right in the heart of Lastarria, Hotel Cumbres Lastarria gives you the “live-here” feeling with the comfort of a proper hotel. Rooms are spacious and modern, with subtle Chilean touches and those little extras—good coffee, plush robes—that make mornings feel indulgent.
The rooftop pool and terrace are a breezy spot to cool off between museum visits, and many rooms look out over Parque Forestal or the neighborhood’s rooftops. Step outside to wine bars, weekend markets, and inventive restaurants, with GAM and the fine arts museum just a short stroll away. Staff are warm and helpful, ready with local tips and restaurant bookings.
Rooms here typically range from $140 to $170 USD per night, depending on the dates and category.
Check availability and lock in your room here!
Lastarria Hotel — $
If you’re the type who spends all day exploring and just wants a clean, central place to crash, Lastarria Hotel ticks all the boxes. Rooms are simple and comfortable, with good showers and reliable Wi-Fi, and the friendly staff keeps things running smoothly.
The location is also gold: minutes to the metro and steps to cafés, galleries, and Santa Lucía’s leafy paths. Mornings start with a straightforward breakfast so you can get out the door quickly, and evenings are a breeze with so many dining options within a few blocks.
It’s not trying to be fancy—just a dependable, well-priced base that puts you squarely in one of Santiago’s most walkable, atmospheric neighborhoods. Rates usually fall between $100 and $175 USD per night, depending on the room type and size.
Snag this central budget pick while it lasts!
Related Read: Need help planning the perfect trip? After our time in the city, we share our ideal 3-day Santiago itinerary so you don’t miss a thing!
Las Condes
Las Condes is the polished, residential side of Santiago. Streets are wide and clean, and hotels usually come with extras like bigger rooms, gyms, and pools. It’s a great fit for families and business travelers who want quiet nights and space to unwind, but still need easy links to the rest of the city.
Staying here means Parque Araucano is on your doorstep when you need some green space, and the Parque Arauco mall is close by when you’re in the mood for retail therapy. The El Golf area feels business-like by day and calm in the evening, with plenty of reliable restaurants.
Getting around is easy with Line 1 stations—El Golf, Escuela Militar, Manquehue, and Tobalaba—connecting you quickly to Providencia, Lastarria, and the historic core. If you’re planning day trips (hello, wine country!), road access from here is straightforward, and hotel staff are eager to set up rides.
It isn’t the place for old historic buildings or a loud late-night bar scene, but if comfort, safety, and convenience top your list, Las Condes is the place to be!
Pros
- Spacious, upscale hotels with great facilities
- Safe, quiet streets; great for families and longer stays
- Fast Metro Line 1 access (El Golf, Manquehue, Tobalaba)
Cons
- More expensive than other areas
- Less historic charm; can feel business-like
- A bit farther from old-town attractions
Mandarin Oriental, Santiago — $$$
The Mandarin Oriental is a city icon that feels like a resort with its lagoon-style pool, lush gardens, and Andes backdrops—yet you’re still close to everything. Rooms are spacious and serene, many with panoramic views, and are set up for proper unwinding after a day out.
The dining is also a highlight: think refined Japanese-Nikkei, Italian classics, and great 5-star service. Families love the outdoor spaces and quiet nights, while couples get the romance of a grand hotel without stuffiness. Fitness facilities are strong, and the concierge can sort transport or day trips with minimal fuss.
If you’re celebrating—or just want a five-star experience between sightseeing days—this splurge is worth it! Prices range from $300 to $1,700 USD per night, with suites on the higher end of that scale.
Ready for a luxurious escape? Reserve your room here!
Plaza El Bosque Ebro — $$
Plaza El Bosque Ebro is a reliable Las Condes pick with both standard rooms and larger suites, so you can choose the space that best fits your trip. Rooms are quiet and well kept with comfortable beds and strong showers, while suites add a separate living area and, in some cases, a kitchenette—perfect for families or extended stays.
The property offers some nice extras too, like an indoor pool for year-round swims, a fitness area, and even a billiards room. The calm yet central location puts you within walking distance of El Golf and Tobalaba stations, plus countless cafés and restaurants. Rooms here generally range from $100 to $600 USD per night, depending on room size and category.
Check availability and lock in your room here!
Novotel Santiago Las Condes — $
Modern, functional, and well-placed for easy days out, the Novotel Santiago Las Condes keeps things simple in the best way. Rooms are quiet and practical with comfy beds and blackout curtains; families appreciate the sofa-bed setups and kid-friendly touches.
Outside, you’re close to parks and shopping, so it’s easy to mix museum days with green-space downtime. There’s a small outdoor pool and gym for decompressing, and the on-site restaurant covers the basics when you don’t feel like venturing out.
Service is friendly and efficient, and rates are often kinder than elsewhere in Las Condes—great if you want value without sacrificing safety or convenience! Nightly rates typically range from $100 to $200 USD, depending on the season.
Don’t miss out—reserve this great-value stay now!
Bellavista
Bellavista is Santiago’s bold and creative side, full of colorful murals, live music, and late-night energy. By day, it’s an easy place to explore on foot. You can visit La Chascona (Pablo Neruda’s house), ride the funicular up Cerro San Cristóbal for city views, and grab coffee on a patio before wandering the shops at Patio Bellavista.
The location is central without feeling corporate, and you can easily walk across the river to museums in Bellas Artes or hop the metro at Baquedano to reach the rest of the city. We also love spending the evenings here, with tapas bars, craft beer spots, and small venues clustered along the main strips.
Do note the flip side: Bellavista gets busy and loud, especially on weekends, and streets can feel a bit rough late at night. We always use rideshares after dark and stick to the busy, well-lit areas. Light sleepers should look for rooms facing a courtyard or choose a hotel on the neighborhood’s edges for quieter nights. Also note that traditional hotels are harder to find here, and you’ll find more boutique stays and apartments.
If you like staying where the action is and want big sights within walking distance, Bellavista is a fun, convenient base!
Pros
- Walkable to San Cristóbal, La Chascona, and Patio Bellavista
- Big nightlife and dining scene; lots of daytime cafés too
- Central location with quick metro access at Baquedano
Cons
- Can be noisy; be street-smart late at night
- Fewer traditional hotels (more apartments)
Hotel Boutique Castillo Rojo — $$
Hotel Boutique Castillo Rojo is pure Bellavista romance: a 1923 red-brick mansion with leafy gardens, creaky-charm staircases, and rooms that feel individually curated. You’re a block from Patio Bellavista, close to La Chascona, and an easy walk to the funicular for San Cristóbal views—so your days can swing from culture to cocktails without a long commute.
Inside, expect character over cookie-cutter: high ceilings, vintage-style furnishings, and cozy corners for a morning coffee. Despite the lively neighborhood, the property itself is surprisingly tranquil, and the staff are great at restaurant suggestions and routing you around the busiest streets.
For travelers who want atmosphere and access in equal measure, this is the Bellavista classic! Depending on the room you choose, nightly rates run from about $150 to $425 USD.
Book your stay in this historic gem here—rooms go quickly!
Apart Hotel B — $
The Apart Hotel B apartment-style units are perfect if you want extra space and the option to self-cater. Studios and apartments all include a full kitchen and dining nook, so you can stock up at a local market and keep snacks or breakfast on hand.
The location near the edge of Bellavista and Bellas Artes means you can wander to museums by day and restaurants by night, then retreat to a quiet, private space. A 24-hour reception adds peace of mind, and housekeeping keeps things shipshape so you’re not “doing chores” on holiday.
It’s a practical, good-value base for longer stays, remote workers, or travelers who like flexibility. You’ll find rates here starting around $60 and going up to $150 USD per night, depending on the season.
Lock in this budget-friendly Bellavista spot today!
Related Read: Once you’ve found the perfect place to stay, check out our guide to fun and exciting things to do in Santiago here to make the most of your trip!
Barrio Brasil
Barrio Brasil sits just west of the historic center and trades high-rises for old mansions, leafy squares, and a slower pace. We love starting our days here with coffee on Plaza Brasil, walking past the colorful facades, and detouring through the photogenic lanes of Barrio Concha y Toro.
It’s a good fit if you want value and local flavor without being far from the sights.
You’ll find small cafés, budget-friendly restaurants, and a handful of bars and galleries. For something heavier but important, the Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos (Memory and Human Rights Museum) is nearby and definitely worth a few hours.
Getting around is simple: República (Line 1) and Cumming (Line 5) put you one or two stops from downtown connections and the central sights. Evenings are mellow compared with Bellavista; some streets can feel quiet or worn after dark, so keep your wits about you at night.
Hotels tend to be boutique guesthouses set in restored buildings, providing more historic charm than modern flash. If you like neighborhoods that feel lived-in and want your budget to stretch, Barrio Brasil is a smart base!
Pros
- Authentic, historic feel; great value stays
- Easy access to the center and key museums
- Quieter alternative to party-heavy areas
Cons
- Fewer hotel choices; nightlife is modest
- Street conditions vary block-to-block
- A bit farther from museum districts like Lastarria
Matildas Hotel Boutique — $$
Matildas Hotel Boutique feels like stepping into a storybook! It’s a restored 1912 mansion with soaring ceilings, patterned tile, and a leafy courtyard perfect for enjoying the included breakfast or relaxing in the evening. Rooms are individually styled with vintage touches and comfy beds, and the calm, residential street adds to the escape-from-the-city vibe.
You’re a short walk to Plaza Brasil and quick transit links to the center, yet the hotel itself stays peaceful—ideal after busy sightseeing days. The team here is genuinely warm and helpful, happy to map out a neighborhood food crawl or arrange rides.
If you love character stays with a personal touch (without paying boutique-luxury prices), Matildas hits just right. Rates usually fall between $130 and $460 USD per night, depending on the room type and size.
Reserve this romantic hideaway here before it’s fully booked!
Hotel Boutique Casa Conde — $
Set in the heritage lanes of Concha y Toro near Barrio Brasil, Hotel Boutique Casa Conde mixes old-world charm with wallet-friendly comfort. Rooms are cozy and thoughtfully arranged, with good showers, strong Wi-Fi, and little nods to the building’s history. Mornings start with a simple, tasty breakfast, and we love the little extras like grocery delivery and the on-site coffee shop.
It’s an easy base for exploring the center by day and retreating to a quieter, atmospheric pocket by night. If you value location, friendliness, and a sense of place over bells and whistles, this boutique stay makes a compelling case! Depending on the room you choose, nightly rates run from about $75 to $150 USD.
Secure your spot at this charming value stay now!
Top Activities to do in Santiago, Chile
Santiago is an incredible base, but the real magic happens when you start exploring both the city and the surrounding regions. From colorful coastal towns to dramatic mountain scenery, guided experiences make it easy to see the best without the hassle of planning logistics. Here are a few top tours that will round out your trip:
- Discover Valparaíso & Viña del Mar – This full-day coastal tour takes you west to Valparaíso, where hillside streets burst with murals, funiculars climb steep slopes, and the harbor hums with energy. You’ll also stop in Viña del Mar, known for its sandy beaches and elegant seaside vibe, making this tour a refreshing contrast to Santiago’s urban buzz.
- See the city on a hop-on hop-off bus – This hop-on hop-off tour is a stress-free way to cover Santiago’s highlights at your own pace. With stops at museums, leafy parks, and lively neighborhoods, this tour gives you the flexibility to hop off and explore whenever something catches your eye. Plus, it includes cable car funicular tickets!
- Explore Cajón del Maipo & El Yeso Reservoir – If you’re craving mountain scenery, this Cajón del Maipo tour delivers. You’ll journey into the Andes to see El Yeso Reservoir, a turquoise lake framed by jagged peaks, with plenty of time to breathe in the crisp air and snap unforgettable photos.
- Tour the legendary Concha y Toro Vineyard – This Concha y Toro tour takes you through Chile’s most famous vineyard, where you’ll wander historic grounds, hear the stories behind the varieties, and explore the legendary cellar. Along the way, you’ll enjoy tastings of premium varietals that showcase why Chile is a global wine leader.
- Cycle through markets & local life – This bike tour through Santiago takes you into bustling markets like La Vega Central and the Central Seafood Market, giving you a sensory-heavy glimpse into local life, culinary culture, and street scenes—all by bike and guided by a bilingual local.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
We hope this guide helps you find the neighborhood and hotel that feels like the right fit! Santiago is such a dynamic city—whether you’re here for the mountain lookouts, leafy parks, and museums, or you’re more into the street art, food, and wine, picking the right base will make all the difference in how you experience it.
Before you go, be sure to check out our other Chile travel blogs here—we’ve put together detailed guides to help you plan adventures beyond Santiago. And if you’re looking for even more inspiration, check out the related blogs below!
5 BEST Things to do in Valparaíso, Chile