Santiago is broken down into little barrios, or neighborhoods, each with a distinct feel. Though not all parts of the city fit neatly into one of the barrios, the names are often used as descriptors for location, like "two blocks south of Santiago Central." Owing to the barrios' individual charms, this city of 6 million residents holds on to its small-town feel. Sampling the local food, wine, and entertainment in different parts of the city will help you get a taste of what Santiago's all about.

Barrio Santiago Central:
Take in the sights, from churches to architecture to museums in barrio Santiago Central. It's Plaza de Armas has the greatest opportunity for historical exploration-- from the Post Office built in 1882 to the Museo Historico National in the Palacio de la Real Audiencia, built in 1804, and the ornate interior of the Catedral Metropolitana, built in 1745.

Barrio Brasil and Barrio Concha y Toro:
Just west of Santiago Central is the up and coming barrio Brasil. Plaza Brasil is the neighborhood's hub and is particularly vibrant on weekend nights. Its mock-Baroque architecture strays a bit from Santiago's conservative neoclassical style, which is a real visual treat. Located just east of Barrio Brasil is the itty-bitty barrio of Concha y Toro. This barrio is home to enchanting houses and shops, along cobblestone streets.

Bellavista:
Cure your culinary cravings at a trendy restaurant and quench your thirst with a frosty bebida in bohemian barrio Bellavista. This barrio's lively club scene will have you dancing until the wee hours of the morning. Located northeast of Santiago Central, Bellavista's hip vibe is accented by the funky clothing and handicraft shops.

Barrio Providencia and Barrio Las Condes:
Stroll down Santiago's main boulevard, the Alameda, which runs east-west across the city, and take advantage of the shopping opportunities in Providencia, from upscale shops with a Rodeo Drive feel to more modest and quaint boutiques. Providencia lays East of Bellavista, and Las Condes is only slightly further east than Providencia. Both barrios have a strong neighborhood feel, and are home to many of the city's five-star luxury hotels.

Barrio Santa Lucia:
This quaint barrio is home to quiet bookshops, cozy cafes, and intimate restaurants and bars. Spend some time ambling through Cerro Santa Lucia, one of the Santiago's best parks, which overlooks the Alameda and lends its name to the neighborhood.

Nunuoa:
Southeast of Providencia, this barrio has maintained a small-town feel, with its quaint neighborhoods and active cultural life. Plaza Nunuoa is the barrio's centerpiece, and its restaurants and bars are quite busy on weekends, giving this small barrio a cosmopolitan feel.