Santiago de Chile occupies arguably the most spectacular setting of any world capital. Sprawled across the fertile Santiago valley, 100km (62 miles) from the Pacific coast, the city is dominated by the Andes mountains, which loom over its eastern suburbs.

World-class ski areas in the central Andes lie only 45 minutes away, up steep windy roads which climb over 7,500 ft in 26 miles.  The ski season runs from June to September and all resorts offer excellent facilities. 

Numerous vineyards surround the capital, while hotsprings, 17th century colonial haciendas, and national parks in both the Andes and the Coast Range all make easy day trips

In this city of contrasts, glass-fronted skyscrapers tower over 18th-century churches, while indigenous women in tribal costume hawk penny snacks outside world-class restaurants and hotels.  Santiago enjoys one of the best standards of living on the continent and the 'work hard, play hard' ethic provides the sense of a modern, thriving city.

The residents of this unique city remain surprisingly friendly, given its size and the disparities of wealth.  Visitors will be rewarded by 17th-century churches, lively markets and colourful street life, set against a dramatic backdrop of snow-capped mountains.

The city's position halfway up Chile's 'string bean' shape ensures a comfortable Mediterranean climate, hot and dry in summer, cool and wet in winter.

• Plaza das Armas ~ The very heart of the city, which lies along the Alameda, a few blocks south of the river.
• Parque Forestal ~ Designed by a French landscaper and modelled on Parisian parks, walkers can pass down tree-lined avenues, past squares and the Museo des Bellas Artes.
• Parque Metropolitano ~ As well as walking trails, you can also picnic and pay a visit to the zoo.
• Cerro San Cristòbal ~ See the enormous statue of the Virgin Mary up close, plus stunning views across the city.  Accessible by bus, funicular or on foot, for the energetic!
• O'Higgins Park ~ Amongst its attractions is 'El Pueblito' which resembles a typical Chilean country village.
• Vineyards ~ In the Maipo Valley, near the city of Santiago, lies one of the country's most important winegrowing areas. Wineries located in this area include The Concha y Toro, Pirque, which offers guided tours of the winery and the nearby village of Pirque with its beautiful countryside and old haciendas.  Other vineyards in the area open to the public are Santa Rita, Santa Carolina and Cousin o Macul.
• Ski Resorts ~ Located less that an hour's drive from Santiago, you will find Farellones-EI Colorado, La Parva and Valle Nevado all situated on the slopes of the Andean mountains. From June to October these resorts are very busy because of the excellent slopes, good snow, nice weather and modern infrastructure.

• Don Simón ~ Cheap and lively place in Bellavista.  Offering basic staples, many coming traditionally 'a la pobre', meaning served with a large portion of fried potatoes and an egg on top!
• Izakaya Yoko ~ Popular Japanese diner, offering bowls of noodles and sushi at great value.
• Venezia ~ Apparently frequented by the Chilean poet, Pablo Neruda, this place serves traditional Chilean dishes at low prices.
• A Pinch of Pancho ~ This North American style restaurant offers a relaxed environment and hearty dishes such as New England Chowder, meat grills and BBQ dishes.