ViaSpanish Blog
Sights of Santiago
As one of the most modern cities in all of Latin America, Santiago’s picturesque location and modern atmosphere combined with its Latin flair make it one of the most popular cities on the continent to study Spanish. Situated in a valley below the Andes Mountain range, Santiago is home to around 5 million people and accounts for over a third of the entire population of Chile. With both the Pacific Coast and the Andes mountains 100 kilometers away, Santiago is an ideal spot for a complete Spanish immersion experience.
While in the city, getting around is made easy by one of the most modern transportation infrastructures in Latin America. The Santiago metro is known to be an incredibly convenient and efficient underground train system running all over the city. At the heart of Santiago is the Plaza de Armas. It is the city’s historic center surrounded by impressive buildings on every side. On the north side of the plaza you will find the National History Museum and the 18th century town hall. To the south is the busiest shopping street in town, Paseo Ahumado.
Other things to do in the afternoons after a day of taking Spanish lessons are going to The Cerro Santa Lucia or the Cerro San Cristobal. Both of these locations have great views of Santiago. Cerro Santa Lucia is located on a hill in the middle of the city and is where the city was originally founded in 1554. It is nowadays known for its magnificent entrance and Chilean castle on top of the hill. The Cerro San Cristobal, on the other hand, is 300 meters above the city making it is the most recommended place to view Santiago. One can drive, walk, or take a gondola up the hill to experience this breathtaking view.
Chileans are known to be relaxed and down to earth people, which is why studying in Santiago has appealed to the thousands of foreigners who study there every year. To find out more about studying Spanish in Santiago, click here!