17 Best Things to Do in Santiago Chile with Teens

Planning a trip to Chile’s capital city and looking for the best things to do in Santiago, Chile with teens?  Well, look no further than this list of recommendations!

This bustling city is filled with culture, history, and exciting activities that are sure to entertain even the most discerning of teenagers. But what to put on your “must see in Santiago Chile” list? 

We have traveled to Santiago, Chile with our own teen. Our list is full of places to visit in Santiago, Chile, and things to do that we and our teen loved. 

So let’s get started. 

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Best Things to Do in Santiago With Teens

1. Horse Back Ride in the Andes

This horseback riding tour is an opportunity to have an authentic Chilean gaucho experience. The tour treats you more like an old friend coming out to the farm than a tour. 

The tour will pick you and your teen up from your hotel. On the drive out to the farm, you’ll learn more about the city of Santiago and the towering Andes that surround it.

Once at the farm, the tour will assign you the horse that is best for you. After a brief introduction to riding, you’ll head to explore the Andes Mountains and reach a beautiful lookout of the city of Santiago. 

The ride is comfortable and the experience is definitely a five-star experience that you and your teen can not miss while in Santiago. 

2. Take the Funicular Up San Cristobal Hill

The Funicular de Santiago is one of the best things to do in Santiago Chile within the city limits. 

The funicular is located in San Cristobal Hill, one of the largest parks in the city. 

It was built in 1925  to provide visitors with a more convenient way to reach the top of the hill, where they could enjoy panoramic views of the city. 

The original design of the funicular was based on the cable cars that were popular in Europe at the time.

Today, the Funicular de Santiago is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, and it continues to provide visitors with breathtaking views of Santiago. 

Once you’re up there, you can visit the statue of the Virgin Mary, explore the botanical gardens, ride on the gondola, or take a hike through the nature reserve. 

There’s something for everyone, and we definitely felt it was a great way to spend several hours in Santiago.

3. Take a Bike Tour

We love experiencing a new city by bike so when we landed in Santiago.

Choosing active experiences is just one of our many expert tips for traveling with teens and this was our very first tour!

If you want to experience the highlights of Santiago in a unique and fun way, we highly recommend taking the Santiago Highlights City Bike Tour with a local guide. 

This tour is an excellent way to see the main sights of the city while getting inside tips and knowledge from a resident of Santiago who loves to share their favorite aspects of the city.

The tour includes cruising through the great parks, like parque Forestal, stopping at the Presidential Palace and the Gabriela Mistral Cultural Center, and exploring other main attractions.

If you are budget travelers like us, you’ll find it is an excellent value for money. The small personalized groups allow for a more intimate experience.

Additionally, you will gain knowledge of the history of Chile, but don’t worry – it’s not an overload of facts! This tour is a fun thing to do in Santiago, Chile with your teenager.

4. Day trip to Valparaiso

No trip to Santiago is complete without a day trip to Valparaiso. 

Traveling by public bus is the least expensive way to get between Santiago and Valparaiso. We used public buses to travel from Santiago to Valparaiso and back and found it to be very easy to navigate, clean, and safe. 

Busses run roughly every 20 minutes or so depending on the time of day. You grab buses from Terminal Alameda in the center of Santiago. The trip takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes.

There are several activities to enjoy once you arrive in Valparaiso. 

We started our day in Valparaiso with a free walking tour through Guru Tours to see the colorful and vibrant street art. The tours start in the historic center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

We grabbed the 11 o’clock tour, but there were others throughout the day at 10, noon, and afternoon. 

The tour was truly the perfect way to get to know the seaside town of Valparaiso, ride several of the funiculars, see some amazing street art, and get a locals perspective of this vibrant city. 

After the tour, you can visit La Sebastiana, the museum that was once the home of the famous Chilean poet, Pablo Neruda. 

The house has been preserved and turned into a museum, and it offers a glimpse into Neruda’s life and work. The museum is also located on a hill, so you can enjoy beautiful views of the city from the top.

Or you can spend some time on the beach. 

Valparaiso is located on the coast, and there are several beaches that are within easy reach of the city. Playa Ancha is a popular beach that is located near the port, and it offers great views of the city and the sea.

We opted for an afternoon on the beach as we had seen–and definitely recommend–visiting Neruda’s house in Santiago so skipped his house in Valparaiso and spent the afternoon at Playa Ancha.

We had a wonderful afternoon watching the sea lions fight over the best position in the sun and eating delicious ceviche. Whatever you do in Valparaiso, you’ll be grateful for this seaside city of colorful houses, amazing street art, and great food.

Doing the extra legwork and DIY tours ourselves is part of our best family budget travel tips. So we day-tripped on our own to Valparaiso.

If you want to leave the planning to the locals, take this day tour from Valparaiso. The tour has over 1,500 reviews and an extremely high rating. 

It includes pick up hotel pick up and drop off, all your transport, a walking tour, and even a wine tasting for you (not your teen). 

5. Check out the Street Art

Street art is a unique and exciting way to explore a city, and Santiago is no exception. 

With its vibrant culture and artistic community, Santiago is home to some of the most stunning street art in the world. 

However, Santiago is unique in that it uses its art to make political commentary in a country that is actively defining its democracy since its overthrow of the dictator, Pinochet. 

Exploring street art is also one of the best free things to do in Santiago, Chile.

One of the best places to find street art in Santiago is in the neighborhoods of Bellavista and Lastarria. Here, you’ll find colorful murals and graffiti on nearly every building, showcasing a range of styles and themes. 

The street art scene in Santiago is constantly evolving, so you’re bound to discover something new and exciting every time you visit.

6. Explore the Bellavista Neighborhood

If you’re looking for a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood to explore with your teenager, Bellavista should definitely be on your list of best places to visit in Santiago, Chile. 

This bohemian quarter is filled with colorful street art, trendy cafes, and lively bars that will appeal to both you and your teenager.

One of the highlights of Bellavista is the street art scene (see our #5 things to see in Santiago with your teen). Your teenager will love discovering the colorful murals and graffiti that adorn the walls of the neighborhood’s buildings, showcasing the artistic talent and cultural identity of Santiago.

Another must-visit attraction in Bellavista is the Cerro San Cristobal park (see our #2 thing to do in Santiago) This lush green space is home to a stunning hilltop lookout, where you can take in panoramic views of the city and the Andes mountains in the distance. 

If you are looking for a great lunch in Bellavista, we definitely recommend Fuente Chilena, where you can get traditional Chilean sandwiches that your teen will love. 

7. Visit the Museum of Memory and Human Rights

Visiting the Museum of Memory and Human Rights is a powerful and educational experience for families with teenagers.

The museum offers you and your teen a chance to learn about a difficult period in Chilean history during the military dictatorship in Chile from 1973 to 1990.

Your teenager will have the opportunity to learn about the struggles of the Chilean people during this period of repression, through interactive exhibits, photographs, and personal testimonies. 

The museum also showcases the work of human rights activists and organizations, who fought for justice and accountability during this difficult time.

Travel should most certainly be about educating ourselves and our teens about the current and historical struggles of others and this museum is a must in that important pursuit. 

8. Relax in Quinta Normal

If you and your teenager are looking for a peaceful and relaxing way to spend an afternoon in Santiago, consider visiting Quinta Normal Park. 

This beautiful green space, located in the heart of the city is one of the free Santiago things to do. It also offers a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

The park features lush gardens, tranquil lakes, and plenty of shaded paths and benches where you can sit and enjoy the natural beauty around you. 

There are also several museums located within the park, including the Museum of Natural History and the Museum of Contemporary Art, which offer engaging and educational exhibits that will appeal to teens and adults alike.

A fun activity to do with your teenager in Quinta Normal is to rent a paddle boat and explore the park’s serene lake. 

Quinta Normal is a hidden gem in the heart of Santiago, and a wonderful place to relax and unwind with your teenager. 

Whether you’re strolling through the gardens, exploring the museums, or paddling on the lake, you’re sure to enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of this urban oasis.

9. Hike Around Cerro Santa Lucia

This historic hill is located in the heart of the city, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and cityscape.

To start your hike, head to the base of Cerro Santa Lucia and make your way up the winding staircase that leads to the top of the hill. Along the way, you’ll pass through lush gardens, climb stone staircases, and enjoy breathtaking views of the city.

At the top of the hill, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Santiago, including the Andes mountains in the distance.

 Your teenager will be amazed by the stunning beauty of the city, and you’ll both enjoy the sense of accomplishment that comes from completing the hike.

After your hike, you can relax in the park at the top of Cerro Santa Lucia, which features fountains, gardens, and plenty of shaded areas where you can rest and take in the views.

 There are also several historic monuments and buildings on the hill, including a castle-like structure that was built in the 1800s.

Of course, if you are looking for epic Chilean hikes, you should take your teen further south to Torres del Paine in Patagonia. We had one of our best travel experiences ever hiking Mirador Torres del Paine.

10. Take in the Sights at the Plaza De Armas

This historic square is located in the heart of Santiago and is surrounded by some of the city’s most important landmarks and monuments. A stop in this important plaza is a must-see Santiago attraction.

As you walk through Plaza de Armas, you’ll see the stunning Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago, which dates back to the 1700s and is one of the largest churches in Chile. 

You’ll also see the Central Post Office building, which features beautiful architecture and is one of the most photographed buildings in Santiago.

In addition to these landmarks, Plaza de Armas is also home to several museums and cultural centers, including the National History Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts.

Several museums in Santiago are free including the National History Museum. So we stopped in the museum mostly in a desperate search for a bathroom. 

The museum itself is small, but the outdoor courtyard is an excellent place to grab a bench or table and take a short break from your full day sightseeing in Santiago. 

11. Grab a Bite at the Mercado Central

If you and your teenager are foodies, you won’t want to miss the chance to explore Central Market, one of the most famous food markets in Santiago.

 This bustling market is a feast for the senses, with stalls selling all kinds of fresh seafood, fruit, vegetables, and spices.

One of the best things to do at Mercado Central is to simply wander around and take in the sights and smells. Your teenager will see all of the varieties of seafood on offer, from giant king crabs to succulent sea bass.

When it’s time for a bite to eat, head to one of the many small restaurants and food stands in the market. Here, you can sample some of the freshest and most delicious seafood in Santiago, from ceviche and grilled octopus to steaming bowls of fish soup.

One of the most popular dishes to try at Mercado Central is the traditional Chilean dish of pastel de jaiba, a creamy crab pie that is the perfect comfort food on a cool day. 

You can also try other classic Chilean dishes like empanadas or chorrillana, a hearty dish made with beef, fries, and onions.

12. Visit the Home of the Poet Pablo Neruda

One excellent way to extend your experience of the Bellavista neighborhood-our #6 on this list–is to visit one of the most iconic attractions, La Chascona.

La Chascona is the former home of Nobel laureate Pablo Neruda. This beautifully preserved house offers visitors a glimpse into the life of one of Chile’s most famous poets and intellectuals. 

You and your teenager can wander through the rooms filled with eclectic decor, artwork, and unique features, and learn about the life and works of this iconic figure.

Even if your teen is not familiar with the poet or his work, time at the house is an excellent way to introduce your teen to one of the most significant Chileans. 

Our son was not familiar with Neruda before our visit, but really appreciated learning about his life and art. 

We have a “one museum a day” rule when traveling with our teen,  and this museum was definitely worth giving away the coveting spot. 

13. Go Thrifting

Thrift shopping is a fantastic way to explore a new city, discover unique items, and engage in sustainable practices. Santiago is home to a thriving thrifting scene, making it a great destination for families with teenagers who love to shop and explore.

One of the best places to go thrifting in Santiago is the Persa Biobio flea market. Here, you and your teenager can find an incredible selection of vintage and secondhand clothing, accessories, and home decor at affordable prices. 

The market is also home to a variety of food vendors so you don’t have to go in search of a good, inexpensive meal.

The flea market does have a history of petty theft so as always, keep your wallets and cell phones secure and out of sight. 

In addition to the Persa Biobio flea market, Santiago is also home to a variety of thrift stores, vintage boutiques, and other secondhand shops. 

Our favorite street was Bandera. Located just a few blocks from Plaza de Armas, this pedestrianized street is home to thrift store after thrift store. Our own teen had a blast and got some great secondary clothes.

14. Explore the Mirador Interactive Museum (MIM)

If you’re looking for a fun and educational activity to do with your teenager in Santiago, try visiting the Mirador Interactive Museum (MIM). 

This museum is dedicated to science, technology, and innovation, and offers a range of interactive exhibits and experiences that are sure to engage and inspire visitors of all ages.

At the MIM, you and your teenager can explore a variety of fascinating topics, from astronomy and space travel to electricity and renewable energy. The exhibits are designed to be hands-on and interactive,

One of the highlights of the Mirador Interactive Museum is the rooftop observation deck, which offers breathtaking views of the city and the Andes mountains. You and your teenager can take in the stunning scenery while learning about the history and geography of Santiago and its surroundings.

15. Take the Tourist Bus

If you want to see the best of Santiago and a bike or walking tour isn’t your teen’s thing, try the Tourik tourist bus. This double-decker bus offers a hop-on, hop-off service, which means you and your teenager can explore the city at your own pace and on your own terms.

The Santiago sightseeing Tourik bus offers a range of routes that cover all of the city’s major attractions, from historic neighborhoods to modern skyscrapers. 

The buses are equipped with audio guides that provide interesting and informative commentary in multiple languages, so you and your teenager can learn about the history and culture of Santiago as you explore.

One of the benefits of the Tourik tourist bus is its flexibility. You and your teenager can hop off at any stop that interests you and spend as much time as you like exploring. When you’re ready to move on, simply hop back on the next bus that comes along.

16. Get a Birds Eye View at Sky Costanera

This towering skyscraper is the tallest viewpoint in all of South America and offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

At Sky Costanera, you and your teenager can ride the high-speed elevator to the observation deck, which sits at a dizzying height of 300 meters above the ground. 

Once you reach the top, you’ll be treated to stunning panoramic views of Santiago’s skyline, as well as the Andes mountains in the distance.

One of the highlights of Sky Costanera is the outdoor terrace, which offers an unobstructed view of the city and allows you and your teenager to feel like you’re on top of the world.

For an even more unforgettable experience, you and your teenager can visit Sky Costanera at sunset, when the sky turns shades of pink and orange and the city lights up in a stunning display. 

It’s the perfect opportunity for your teen to put their best travel gadgets to work to capture some amazing photos and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Sky Costanera is also very near Parque Bicentenario, a 74-acre park with tons of green space, cycling, paddling, and beautiful gardens.

17. Go Skiing

We were in Santiago in the Fall and it was too early for the skiing to be opened. However, skiing is definitely something you can do with your teen from Santiago. 

The ski season in Santiago typically runs from June to September, which corresponds to the winter months in the southern hemisphere. However, the exact dates of the ski season can vary depending on the snowfall and weather conditions. 

Some ski resorts in Santiago may open as early as May or as late as July, depending on the amount of snow.

Santiago is close to several ski resorts, including Valle Nevado, which offers some of the best skiing in South America. 

If your teen is used to Colorado resort skiing, skiing in Chile may come as a bit of a surprise….because of how good it is. 

Most people consider the vertical drop of ski resorts to gauge how good it will be for intermediate and advanced skiers. Valle Nevado has a solid 2,657 feet. 

To give you a US comparison, if you are familiar with Copper Mountain, which is one of our favorite Colorado Ski resorts, you’ll see that it is 2,738 feet. Very comparable. 

Valle Nevado also compares in skiable acres. 

All of these statistics means if you have a teenager who love skiing or snowboarding, they will enjoy hitting the slopes just outside of Santiago, Chile. 

FAQs

Conclusion: Things to Do in Santiago Chile with Teens

Chile is one of the best countries to explore in South America with teens, and Santiago is the heart.

From exploring the vibrant Bellavista neighborhood to hiking around Cerro Santa Lucia, there’s something for every interest and energy level.

For foodies, be sure to visit Mercado Central to sample some of the freshest seafood in Santiago. Or, if you’re interested in history and culture, the Museum of Memory and Human Rights provides a powerful and moving look at Chile’s recent past. For something more interactive, the Mirador Interactive Museum is a great choice, offering hands-on exhibits and activities.

If you want to get outdoors and enjoy some fresh air, consider hiking around Cerro Santa Lucia or taking in the sights at Plaza de Armas. And for something truly breathtaking, head up to the top of Sky Costanera for panoramic views of the city.

No matter what your interests are, Santiago has plenty to offer for parents and teenagers looking to explore together.