Providencia, found in the northern central part of Santiago, has many high-rise apartments, as well as old elegant houses. It also contains Barrio Suecia, a neighborhood brimming with pubs and nightclubs, and Barrio Bellavista, home to many bohemian artists. Within its borders are the embassies for China, Russia, and Italy, and the Cerro San Cristobal, the famous tall hill that towers above the entire city.

The capital of Santiago has a storied past, full of bloody battles, triumphant victories, fearless leaders, and defeated armies. Spanish conquistadors ruled the area from the late 16th century to the early 19th century, when Chile finally gained independence. The three centuries of colonialist rule has had a long lasting effect, as the European influence can still be seen all over the city.

Present-day Santiago is a bustling, loud, ever-growing and ever-evolving metropolis populated with nearly seven million people. Aside from being the political and economic center of Chile, it is also fast becoming the country’s hub for arts, entertainment, food and drink, and culture. The dynamic city is dotted with museums, theaters, bars, and different vibrant neighborhoods that cater to various crowds, such as the bohemian artists, culinary elite, and politicians. What makes this urban center especially unique is the fact that it’s surrounded by the beautiful, glistening snow-capped Andes Mountains. Although Santiago has had a problem with smog and air pollution, it’s still difficult not to be impressed by this stunning natural backdrop.

• 31-minute drive to Santiago Arturo Merino Benitez Airport
• 7-minute drive to Parque Forestal, a park that runs parallel to the Mapocho River
• 8-minute drive to La Chascona, one of poet Pablo Neruda’s homes
• 9-minute drive to Santiago Centro, the downtown area
• 10-minute drive to Plaza de Armas, the main plaza
• 10-minute drive to Teatro Municipal, performance venue for dance and opera
• 11-minute drive to Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino, a museum of Pre-Colombian art
• 11-minute drive to La Moneda Palace, the presidential palace
• 12-minute drive to Parque Metropolitano (Cerro San Cristobal)
• 12-minute drive to Cementerio General, a cemetery of important Chilean figures