7 things to do for free: Santiago, Chile

Chile celebrates its bicentenary this year – 18 September should be quite a party! – so now’s the perfect time to visit the Chilean capital. Here’s how to do it for free

2 mins

1. Go to market

 

Forget the touristy Central Market and cross the river to the hustle and bustle of La Vega where snoozing cats guard the tomatoes and locals sell gigantic avocados and corn-cobs for pennies.

2. Gawp at the view

 

Hike up San Cristóbal to the iconic 14m virgin at the top and fine views of the city – best enjoyed after winter rains clear the smog.

3. Take in some culture

One of the best museums in Chile, the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino is free on Sundays and has a well-labelled collection with English translations.

4. Browse oddities

 

Gas masks, gerbils, doll parts and more: if it’s weird, it’s on sale at the weekend fleamarket, Persa Bío Bío.

5. Pay homage to the past

 

Wander around the leafy General Cemetery: pay your respects at the memorial to those who disappeared during Pinochet’s reign, or visit the graves of ousted president Salvador Allende and folk hero Victor Jara.

6. Drink & dance

In the heart of Bellavista, lefty Bar Dos Gardenias pours a mean Pisco sour and has live folk or tango most nights.

7. Roam the Sculpture Park

 

Pack a picnic and head to Parque de las Esculturas, an open-air art gallery, perfect for a sunny day.

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