La Vega Central is where Santiago actually shops: a sprawling wholesale-and-retail market across the river from the centre, piled with Chilean produce, cheeses, spices and some of the best cheap lunch counters in the city. It's louder, cheaper and far less polished than the markets closer to Plaza de Armas.
Wander for fruit, nuts and picnic supplies, then eat at one of the small comedor stalls inside rather than at the sit-down restaurants around the edges.
Local tip: Go in the morning — stalls start closing by early afternoon and the best produce goes fast.
Good to know
- Where: Dávila Baeza 700, Recoleta, Santiago, Chile
- City: Santiago
Plan your visit to Santiago