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Discover Local in Santiago de Chile - EN

Candlelight is a series of live concerts held in various cities, offering a unique and intimate musical experience. In Santiago, Candlelight allows you to discover the talents of local musicians while also experiencing some of the city's most outstanding venues, from the contemporary Centro Cultural to the cosy Teatro Mori Parque Arauco. These performances are multisensorial – the ambiance envelops you, inviting you to let the music wash over you and simply be in the moment. Whether it’s classical masterpieces or tributes to iconic artists like Coldplay, Queen and the Beatles, each note resonates with a magical warmth. 

The concerts last about an hour. Doors open 45 minutes early and no late entry is allowed, so be sure to arrive on time as the magic begins the moment the first note fills the candlelit space. Centro Cultural is a five-minute drive from Mercure Santiago Centro.

Experience an immersive Candlelight concert

There’s so much to explore here, from the cable car rides to the historic Funicular de Santiago, a national monument since 1925. This iconic railway climbs nearly 500 metres at a steep incline, with stops at the National Zoo and San Cristóbal Hill, where you can enjoy a tranquil moment in the sanctuary. The views from the summit are spectacular – all the way to the Andes! Expect queues on the weekend. 

If you’re visiting with kids, the Bicentenary Children’s Park is a must, with treehouses, water features and its own amphitheatre. Wander through the Botanical Garden or marvel at the stars in the Manuel Foster Observatory. If you simply want to unwind and connect with nature, take a dip in the beautiful, hilltop Piscina Antilen, or hike or cycle some of the many trails. The park is free to enter but there's a charge for some of the attractions.

Enjoy a big day out at Parque Metropolitano

The building itself is a masterpiece – a neoclassical gem inspired by the Petit Palais in Paris. Designed by French architect Emile Jéquier, who also crafted Santiago’s iconic railway station, it exudes elegance and history. You pass under a sculpted allegory of fine arts over the entrance, to find yourself in a central hall crowned by a glass roof custom-made in Belgium and shipped piece by piece in 1907.

History and creativity meet in this architectural marvel. Discover colonial religious works, portraits of national heroes and pieces by modern painters like Roberto Matta. The international collection has works spanning centuries from Spain, the Netherlands, France and Italy. Don’t worry about being overwhelmed – the size is manageable due to regularly rotated exhibitions. Entry is free but the museum is closed on Mondays.

Discover Chilean art at the Museo de Bellas Artes

Stroll down leafy, cobblestone streets lined with a mix of modern, neoclassical and Art Deco buildings. You’ll notice intricate ironwork, arched windows and carved stone details, evoking an aristocratic past. Once home to celebrated 20th-century artists like Camilo Mori and Nemesio Antúnez, the area invites you to browse art galleries, cultural centres and independent designer shops. 

Plaza Mulato Gil de Castro, a tribute to the colonial portrait artist, anchors the neighbourhood with its museums, the Vera Cruz Church, and stylish cafés and bars. Eateries here craft fusion dishes, blending Chilean tradition with modern flair. Lastarria found its sparkle in the late 20th century, evolving into a haven for gastronomy and art lovers. It’s an inspiring mix of past and present, perfect for cultural exploration.

Stroll around Lastarria, Santiago’s bohemian quarter

From opera and ballet to chamber concerts and theatre productions, it has long been a beacon for the performing arts. Beyond its artistic legacy, the theatre has played a pivotal role in shaping Chile’s socio-political landscape. It was here, on January 8, 1949, that the law granting Chilean women the universal right to vote was signed – a defining moment in the nation’s history. Each year on September 18, the presidential gala underscores its significance in the country’s republican fabric. 

If plays and opera are not your thing, why not explore this architectural gem on a guided tour? The theatre offers a rich, immersive journey into Chilean history and the arts. With its exceptional acoustics and welcoming atmosphere – formal attire optional – it’s a must-visit if you’re seeking to connect with the country’s creative and historical roots.

Admire Santiago’s cultural gem, el Teatro Municipal

Tucked in Santiago’s Bellavista neighbourhood, near San Cristóbal Hill, this house-turned-museum offers you a glimpse into the life of Chile’s Nobel Prize-winning poet. Built in 1953 for Matilde Urrutia, the house takes its name from his affectionate nickname for her: “La Chascona,” a Quechuan word for her mane of red hair. 

Every corner reflects Neruda’s playful creativity. Instead of following architectural norms, he designed spaces to suit beloved objects – a window, a painting, an armchair – creating an intimate mosaic of memories. You can wander through the multi-level rooms, admire an eclectic art collection, and marvel at African wood carvings and Fornasetti-designed pieces. From the dining room set with original tableware to hidden nooks and panoramic garden views, you’re almost stepping into Neruda’s imagination. Entry costs CLP$9.500 and tickets can be bought on site.

Take a poetic dive into Casa Museo la Chascona