Neighborhoods of Santiago
As an expat in Santiago, the neighborhood you choose to live in has the power to define your experience in the city. I've spent a significant amount of time walking through the neighborhoods of Providencia, Bellavista, Lastarria, Italia and Franklin. Read through this guide to discover the best of what these neighborhoods have to offer.
NEIGHBORHOODS OF SANTIAGO
PROVIDENCIA: A mix of everything
This was my first introduction to Santiago as we moved into temporary housing on the bustling Avenida Providencia. Throughout the day, there is a ton of activity stemming from the loud buses ('micros'), taxis, street vendors and locals going about their day (work, school, etc).
My favorite aspect of the neighborhood, though, is the clear view you have of the mountains, reminding you what a beautiful city I get to call home for this year. It's not always easy to make out the mountains amidst the pollution and fog that builds up in this valley, but when you get a chance to see them, the view is spectacular.
BARRIO LASTARRIA: European charm
It took me a couple of visits to realize what an incredible neighborhood Barrio Lastarria is. It has beautiful, windy cobblestone streets interspersed with numerous restaurants and wine bars. Its standout feature is the lush Parque Forestal that houses Museo Bellavista and has a long stretch of grass perfect for picnics and lazy lounging. I've felt the most at home here, and can't wait to spend more time in this tourist hub.
BELLAVISTA: The Bohemian Jewel of Santiago
Murals, salsa clubs, bars, restaurants, parks - Bellavista has it all, and is the perfect neighborhood for tourists to use as a starting point when exploring this beautiful city. My favorite place so far has been Jardin Mallinkrodt, an open air bar with several food trucks serving up shareable plates. Definitely check it out if you're in the area.
BARRIO ITALIA: The Williamsburg of Santiago
I'm not sure why this comparison hasn't been made by others, but a few minutes walking through the Avenida Italia, you'll realize that you've landed in the Williamsburg of South America. There are an endless amount of adorable boutique stores selling high-end clothing, jewelry, artisan crafts and furniture. Each storefront is more beautiful than the next, with flowers and unique adornments to entice customers. It's impossible not to enjoy your time in this 'barrio.'
For more photos of Santiago neighborhoods, follow me on Instagram: @biancarods
BARRIO FRANKLIN: THE HIPSTER HAVEN OF SANTIAGO
Barrio Franklin is one of the more “authentic” Santiago neighborhoods with a massive flea market called Persa Bio Bio. You’ll find mostly local Santiguinos spending the weekend day with their families, window shopping through the hundreds of stalls. You can find everything from vintage accessories, rare vinyls and an eclectic variety of local and international restaurants. It’s what I consider the hipster haven of Santiago.
Barrio Franklin in Santiago, Chile
Barrio Franklin in Santiago, Chile
