Santiago is home to countless markets where you can get lost for hours and shop for just about anything. If you're a foodie, check out the fresh produce and farmers' markets. Everyone loves to take home a souvenir from a faraway place. Persa Bío Bío is a traditional market—lively, overwhelming, but pleasant. Located in Bío Bío, in the Metropolitan Region, it's right in the heart of the city and sells everything from vintage bikes to books. No list of things to do in Santiago is complete without a visit to a traditional crafts market. Patio Bellavista is located in the very bohemian Bellavista neighborhood, north of downtown. If you're looking to take home a handmade Chilean product, this is your market.

Every capital brings together great artists of all kinds. It may not be your typical vacation activity, but it will bring a little romance and intrigue into your world. Visit the home of Pablo Neruda, the famous Chilean poet who won a Nobel Prize in Literature and was deeply involved in both politics and art. The house, La Chascona, is located in the Bellavista neighborhood. Keep in mind that the house is small, so admission is on a first-come, first-served basis.

In this neighborhood, full of Instagram-worthy corners, you'll find numerous cafés where you can get your daily caffeine fix, a sweet treat, and the perfect picture to share with the world. Café Gudelia, located on Avenida Condell, is the ideal bohemian-chic spot, serving light bites with a perfect coffee. If you're into the new pour-over coffee revolution, head to Café Triciclo in Barrio Italia, on Avenida Italia. What used to be a small coffee-selling tricycle now operates out of a large venue born from that very trike’s success—which, by the way, is still in use.

Santiago has several bars dedicated exclusively to this spirit, which is a type of brandy, a high-proof liquor. The national drink can range from clear to light brown and is often mixed into a variety of cocktails. Chipe Libre, a pisco bar near the Baquedano metro station, is the perfect place to try it. A wide selection of pisco-based drinks is available, so trying them all might not be a bad idea. If you prefer a more down-to-earth pisco tasting, Rapa Nui in Dalmacia will satisfy your late-night cravings. This sandwich shop turned bar serves some of the city’s best piscos—just beware: they don’t go light on the pours.