Food & Markets

Santiago's Markets Free Walking Tour

The Mercado Central, the flower stalls and the way Santiago actually eats

4.8 (167) · Bookable via Civitatis

This tour starts at the equestrian statue of Pedro de Valdivia and heads straight for the smells and noise of Santiago's food culture: the Mercado Central, a 19th-century cast-iron market hall famous for its seafood counters, and the north bank of the Mapocho River, where the everyday, working side of the city takes over from the postcard center.

Your guide also stops at the Pérgola de las Flores, the flower market that has supplied the city for generations, explaining how Santiago's markets grew up alongside the river and why locals still shop and eat here instead of the tourist-facing restaurants nearby. Come hungry — this walk is as much about taste as it is about history.

Tour highlights

Pedro de Valdivia equestrian statue
Mercado Central seafood market
North bank of the Mapocho River
Pérgola de las Flores flower market
Local food culture and stalls

Meeting point

Equestrian statue of Pedro de Valdivia.

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This tour is free — there's no charge to join. At the end, tip your guide whatever you feel the experience was worth. 100% of tips go directly to them.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Santiago's Markets Free Walking Tour really free?

Yes — there is no ticket and no upfront cost. You reserve a free spot, join the tour, and at the end tip your guide whatever you feel it was worth. Most travelers tip the equivalent of €10–20 per person, but the amount is entirely up to you.

Where does the Santiago's Markets Free Walking Tour start?

The tour meets at Equestrian statue of Pedro de Valdivia. (Equestrian statue of Pedro de Valdivia.). Look for the guide with the FreeTour sign; the exact meeting point is confirmed in your booking.

How long is the tour, and what languages is it in?

It lasts around 2h and is guided in Spanish, English. Groups are capped at about 6 people so the experience stays personal. Comfortable walking shoes recommended.