Discover Santiago’s Historic Center
Plaza de Armas is the true heart of the capital, located in the historic center of Santiago and surrounded by various attractions and buildings of great tourist interest.
This type of square exists all over Chile, since when the Spanish founded cities they used this point as the hub of their grid layout. This square was founded in 1541 by Pedro de Valdivia.
Originally it served as a military training ground and strategic center for the expansion of the Spanish conquest. Over time, the square became the administrative, commercial and social hub of Santiago, and the buildings of the era’s most important institutions were built around it.
It has been remodeled over time, updated with new lighting, gardens, a pergola, among other features.
What to see at Plaza de Armas?
From this Hop On Hop Off stop, you can explore the city’s historic center, visiting the historic buildings that surround the square, such as the Metropolitan Cathedral, Santiago’s City Hall, Correo Central, Casa Colorada and the Santiago Museum, the former National Congress and the National History Museum, among others.
This is definitely an important spot to learn about the beginnings of this city.
How to get there on the Hop On Hop Off
Plaza de Armas is stop 5 on the main Hop On Hop Off route, between Funicular (stop 4) and Plaza de la Constitución (stop 6). The bus stops at Monjitas 879. You can hop on and off at this and every other stop as many times as you like while your ticket is valid, Monday to Sunday from 9:20 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
How much time should you plan?
Between 1 and 2 hours to explore the square, the Metropolitan Cathedral and the surrounding area.
Which tickets include this stop?
Every Hop On Hop Off ticket includes this stop: Basic, Classic, Full Winery, Full Adventure and Santiago Pass.

























