Stroll through modern shopping districts and graceful architecture or visit bohemian districts and urban parks in the suburb of Providencia. Once loved by the late Chilean poet Pablo Neruda, today Providencia is known for its young and affluent residents.

Providencia’s architectural beauty ranges from embassies and churches to 20th-century palaces. Check out the neo-Renaissance style Iglesia de la Divina Providencia (Church of the Divine Providence). Step inside the Tuscan-style Palacio Falabella to admire opulent decorations. Outside, Greek and Roman sculptures decorate a pretty plaza. Visit the majestic Palacio Schacht, home to art exhibitions and cultural activities.

Shopping is a major highlight of the suburb. Find bookstores, fashion boutiques and modern malls spread along Providencia and Nueva Providencia (11 de Septiembre) avenues. Browse the Galeria Drugstore shopping mall with chic boutiques and cafés. Discover hundreds of retail outlets, luxury hotels, cafés and restaurants in the four skyscrapers of the Costanera Center. Enjoy great city views from the center’s food court. 

Take a break from sightseeing and relax in the well-maintained Parque de las Esculturas (Sculpture Park). Admire sculptures by contemporary Chilean artists and bring a picnic to eat on the lawn. In January the park hosts open-air concerts as part of the Festival Internacional de Jazz de Providencia (Providencia International Jazz Festival).

In the evening, enjoy the nightlife of Barrio Suecia, where pubs, bars and nightclubs fill with locals and visitors. Go to nearby Paseo Orrego Luco for a quieter drinking and dining scene. The outdoor seating areas are ideal on a hot day. Sample some of Chile’s famous wines.

The north edge of Providencia is a gateway to Parque Metropolitano and the impressive Cerro San Cristóbal lookout. Follow walking trails to gardens and swimming pools. In the foothills of the park is Bellavista, a bohemian district with bars, cafés and La Chascona, a former residence of Pablo Neruda.

Providencia lies east of Santiago’s historic center, a 10-minute drive from Plaza de Armas. It’s easily accessible via public buses and the metro. Take the metro to Baquedano, Pedro de Valdivia or Los Leones. A hop-on hop-off tourist bus runs through the suburb.