Complete Guide to Visiting Costanera Center, Santiago, Chile

Date: 15/07/2024

Introduction

The Costanera Center in Santiago, Chile, stands as a beacon of modernization and economic growth in the heart of the Providencia district. This monumental commercial and business complex, initiated by Cencosud in 2006, has transformed Santiago’s skyline and become a pivotal landmark. The Gran Torre Santiago, reaching 300 meters in height, was completed in 2012 and is the tallest building in South America, showcasing the architectural prowess of Argentine architect César Pelli and the Chilean firm Alemparte Barreda & Asociados. Beyond its architectural significance, the Costanera Center has become an economic powerhouse, housing over 300 stores, high-end hotels, and office spaces. This guide delves into the history, cultural significance, visitor tips, and more to help you make the most of your visit to this iconic destination. (Complete Visitor Guide to the Costanera Center, Ultimate Guide to Visiting Costanera Center).

Table of Contents

History and Significance

Development and Construction

The Costanera Center, initiated by Cencosud, a major South American retail company, began construction in 2006. Located in Santiago’s Providencia district, it faced a temporary halt in January 2009 due to the global economic recession. However, construction resumed in December 2009, and by February 14, 2012, the Gran Torre Santiago reached its full height of 300 meters, making it the tallest building in South America at that time.

The shopping mall within the complex, designed by Canadian retail agency Watt International, opened on June 12, 2012, and is the largest in South America.

Architectural Significance

The Gran Torre Santiago, also known as Costanera Center Torre 2, was designed by Argentine architect César Pelli, along with the Chilean firm Alemparte Barreda & Asociados and the Canadian company Watt International. Standing at 300 meters (980 feet) tall, it is the second tallest building in Latin America and the fifth tallest in the Southern Hemisphere. The tower’s design is a testament to modern engineering and architectural prowess, symbolizing Santiago’s economic growth and urban development.

Visitor Information and Tips

Visiting Hours and Tickets

  • Visiting Hours: The mall is open daily from 10 am to 10 pm, with the Sky Costanera observation deck open from 10 am to 10 pm (last elevator at 9 pm). For the best views, visit on clear days.
  • Tickets: Visitors can purchase tickets for the Sky Costanera observation deck on-site or online for a seamless experience. Discounts are available for children, students, and seniors.

Tips for Visitors

  • Timing: The mall is less crowded on weekdays during the day. Weekends and public holidays tend to attract more visitors.
  • Discounts: Register for the On Tour discount card at the customer service kiosk near the Avenue Vitacura entrance to get anywhere from 5 to 20 percent off purchases at many of the mall’s shops.
  • Accessibility: The mall is easily accessible via public transportation, with the Tobalaba metro station providing direct access through an aboveground walking tunnel.
  • Nearby Attractions: Explore other nearby attractions such as the Bicentenario Park and the Santiago Metropolitan Park to make the most of your visit.

Economic Impact

The Costanera Center has had a profound economic impact on Santiago and Chile as a whole. It includes two high-end hotels, an office building, and a six-floor shopping mall, which houses over 300 stores, including international brands and local boutiques. The mall’s diverse offerings have made it a major shopping destination for both locals and tourists.

The presence of the Costanera Center has also spurred economic activity in the surrounding Providencia district, attracting businesses and boosting property values. Its strategic location near the Mapocho River and major transportation routes has enhanced its accessibility and appeal.

Cultural and Social Significance

Beyond its economic contributions, the Costanera Center holds cultural and social significance for Santiago. The Sky Costanera observation deck offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city and the Andes Mountains, becoming a popular spot for both tourists and locals.

The mall itself is a social hub, featuring a variety of dining options, a movie theater, and entertainment complexes for children. The food court on the fifth floor offers a range of dining experiences, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. The presence of international brands alongside Chilean boutiques reflects the mall’s role in blending global and local cultures.

Environmental Considerations

The Costanera Center incorporates several environmentally friendly features, including bike and car parking with electric charging stations. The complex is wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusivity for all visitors.

FAQ

  • What are the visiting hours for the Costanera Center? The mall is open daily from 10 am to 10 pm. The Sky Costanera observation deck is also open from 10 am to 10 pm, with the last elevator going up at 9 pm.

  • How can I get discounts at the Costanera Center? Register for the On Tour discount card at the customer service kiosk near the Avenue Vitacura entrance to receive discounts ranging from 5 to 20 percent off purchases at many of the mall’s shops.

  • Is the Costanera Center accessible via public transportation? Yes, the mall is easily accessible via the Tobalaba metro station, which provides direct access through an aboveground walking tunnel.

Conclusion

The Costanera Center is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Santiago. Its towering presence and diverse offerings make it a unique and memorable experience, whether you’re interested in shopping, dining, or simply enjoying panoramic views of the city. Download our mobile app, Audiala, for more travel tips and updates, and follow us on social media for the latest news and guides. (Observation Decks, My Guide Chile).

References

Visit The Most Interesting Places In Santiago

Academy Of Christian Humanism University
Academy Of Christian Humanism University
Adolfo Ibáñez University
Adolfo Ibáñez University
Alberto Hurtado University
Alberto Hurtado University
Andrés Bello University
Andrés Bello University
Barrio Lastarria
Barrio Lastarria
|
  Bernardo O'Higgins University
| Bernardo O'Higgins University
Biblioteca De Santiago
Biblioteca De Santiago
Bolivarian University Of Chile
Bolivarian University Of Chile
Campos De Sports De Ñuñoa
Campos De Sports De Ñuñoa
Casa Central De La Universidad De Chile
Casa Central De La Universidad De Chile
Casa Colorada
Casa Colorada
Casa De Santo Domingo 627
Casa De Santo Domingo 627
Casa Espínola Pereira
Casa Espínola Pereira
Castillo Hidalgo
Castillo Hidalgo
Caupolicán Theatre
Caupolicán Theatre
Centro Cultural Gabriela Mistral
Centro Cultural Gabriela Mistral
Centro Cultural La Moneda
Centro Cultural La Moneda
Cerro Alvarado
Cerro Alvarado
|
  Children'S Museum
| Children'S Museum
Chilean-British Culture University
Chilean-British Culture University
Chilean Museum Of Pre-Columbian Art
Chilean Museum Of Pre-Columbian Art
Chilean National History Museum
Chilean National History Museum
Chilean National Museum Of Fine Arts
Chilean National Museum Of Fine Arts
Chilean National Museum Of Natural History
Chilean National Museum Of Natural History
Chilean National Zoo
Chilean National Zoo
Club De La Unión
Club De La Unión
Costanera Center
Costanera Center
Daniel Zamudio
Daniel Zamudio
Diego Portales University
Diego Portales University
|
  Embassy Of The People'S Republic Of China, Santiago
| Embassy Of The People'S Republic Of China, Santiago
Estación Mapocho Cultural Center
Estación Mapocho Cultural Center
Estadio Monumental
Estadio Monumental
Estadio Municipal De Lo Barnechea
Estadio Municipal De Lo Barnechea
Estadio San Carlos De Apoquindo
Estadio San Carlos De Apoquindo
Estadio Santa Laura-Universidad Sek
Estadio Santa Laura-Universidad Sek
Fantasilandia
Fantasilandia
Former National Congress Building
Former National Congress Building
Fuente De Neptuno, Santiago De Chile
Fuente De Neptuno, Santiago De Chile
Funicular De Santiago
Funicular De Santiago
Gabriela Mistral Gallery
Gabriela Mistral Gallery
Gabriela Mistral University
Gabriela Mistral University
Hipódromo Chile
Hipódromo Chile
Hospital Militar De Santiago
Hospital Militar De Santiago
Hospital San Juan De Dios
Hospital San Juan De Dios
Instituto Geográfico Militar
Instituto Geográfico Militar
Internado Nacional Barros Arana
Internado Nacional Barros Arana
La Chascona
La Chascona
Laura Vicuña
Laura Vicuña
Londres 38
Londres 38
Los Héroes
Los Héroes
Luis Emilio Recabarren
Luis Emilio Recabarren
Mercado Central De Santiago
Mercado Central De Santiago
Metropolitan University Of Educational Sciences
Metropolitan University Of Educational Sciences
Metropolitan University Of Technology
Metropolitan University Of Technology
Monumento A Salvador Allende, Santiago De Chile
Monumento A Salvador Allende, Santiago De Chile
Movistar Arena
Movistar Arena
Municipal Theatre Of Santiago
Municipal Theatre Of Santiago
Museo Colonial
Museo Colonial
Museo De Artes Visuales
Museo De Artes Visuales
Museo De Colo-Colo
Museo De Colo-Colo
Museo De La Solidaridad Salvador Allende
Museo De La Solidaridad Salvador Allende
Museo Ferroviario De Santiago
Museo Ferroviario De Santiago
Museo La Merced
Museo La Merced
Museo Nacional Benjamín Vicuña Mackenna
Museo Nacional Benjamín Vicuña Mackenna
Museo Parque De Las Esculturas De Providencia
Museo Parque De Las Esculturas De Providencia
Museum Of Chemistry And Pharmacy Of The University Of Chile
Museum Of Chemistry And Pharmacy Of The University Of Chile
Museum Of Memory And Human Rights
Museum Of Memory And Human Rights
National Library Of Chile
National Library Of Chile
Nave Centro Creativo
Nave Centro Creativo
Palace Of The Royal Consulate Court Of Santiago
Palace Of The Royal Consulate Court Of Santiago
Palacio Cousiño
Palacio Cousiño
Palacio De La Moneda
Palacio De La Moneda
Palacio De La Real Aduana De Santiago
Palacio De La Real Aduana De Santiago
Palacio De La Real Audiencia De Santiago
Palacio De La Real Audiencia De Santiago
Palacio De Los Tribunales De Justicia De Santiago
Palacio De Los Tribunales De Justicia De Santiago
Panul Forest
Panul Forest
Parque Araucano
Parque Araucano
Parque Brasil
Parque Brasil
Parque Mahuida
Parque Mahuida
Parque Mapocho Poniente
Parque Mapocho Poniente
Parque Natural Aguas De Ramón
Parque Natural Aguas De Ramón
Parque Natural San Carlos De Apoquindo
Parque Natural San Carlos De Apoquindo
|
  Parque O'Higgins Circuit
| Parque O'Higgins Circuit
Parque Peñalolén
Parque Peñalolén
Plaza De Armas (Santiago)
Plaza De Armas (Santiago)
Plaza De La Ciudadanía
Plaza De La Ciudadanía
Plaza De La Constitución
Plaza De La Constitución
Plaza Mulato Gil De Castro
Plaza Mulato Gil De Castro
Pontifical Catholic University Of Chile
Pontifical Catholic University Of Chile
Presidente Pedro Aguirre Cerda
Presidente Pedro Aguirre Cerda
Public Health Institute Of Chile
Public Health Institute Of Chile
Real Universidad De San Felipe
Real Universidad De San Felipe
San Miguel
San Miguel
San Sebastián University
San Sebastián University
Sanctuary On San Cristóbal Hill
Sanctuary On San Cristóbal Hill
Santiago Metropolitan Park
Santiago Metropolitan Park
Santiago Museum Of Contemporary Art
Santiago Museum Of Contemporary Art
Santiago Street Circuit
Santiago Street Circuit
Seguro Obrero Massacre
Seguro Obrero Massacre
Sek University Chile
Sek University Chile
Teresa Of The Andes
Teresa Of The Andes
Titanium La Portada
Titanium La Portada
Torre Entel
Torre Entel
Universidad Católica Silva Henríquez
Universidad Católica Silva Henríquez
Universidad Central De Chile
Universidad Central De Chile
Universidad De Los Andes
Universidad De Los Andes
Universidad Finis Terrae
Universidad Finis Terrae
Universidad La República
Universidad La República
Universidad Mayor
Universidad Mayor
Universidad Santo Tomás
Universidad Santo Tomás
University For The Arts, Sciences, And Communication
University For The Arts, Sciences, And Communication
University Of Alba
University Of Alba
University Of Art And Social Sciences
University Of Art And Social Sciences
University Of Informatics Sciences
University Of Informatics Sciences
University Of Santiago
University Of Santiago
University Of The Americas
University Of The Americas
University Of The Pacific
University Of The Pacific
Workshop Museum
Workshop Museum