Beautiful cultures, people, and nature all combine on the continent of South America, creating a colorful mix of places to see. From the arid Andes Mountains to the sizzling streets of Sao Paulo, South America offers something new and exciting around every turn. With so many different things to see, it can be hard to narrow down your options. As a starting point for adventures to South America, these 10 cities should be at the top of every travelers list.
Buenos Aires, Argentina Known as the shopping capital of South America, this vibrant city is a top destination for anyone traveling to the continent. A European atmosphere combined with tango dancing, a vibrant nightlife, and the Atlantic …show more content…
Paramaribo is the country’s capital city, and oddly enough, is really nothing like the rest of South America. The national language of Suriname is Dutch, thanks to Dutch colonization of the area in the 16th century. There is also a mix of Creole and indigenous cultures here, making it a true melting pot. The entire downtown area is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, with such buildings as the Presidential Palace, Fort Zeelandia, and St. Peter and Paul Basilica all dating from the 1600’s-1800’s. The capital is also a great starting point for specialized tours of the rainforests of Suriname, many of them organized by locals in different areas.
Lima, Peru Founded in 1535 by Francisco Pizarro, Peru’s capital city is stunning. Located between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Coast, visitors can find a mix of colonial Spanish buildings as well as ancient Incan archaeological sites. The beachfront offers stellar shopping and dining, and for authentic Peruvian cuisine, head to the Boulevard Gastronomic. Centro Historico has the most picturesque architecture, with the Palace and the Basilica de San Francisco located there.
Santiago, …show more content…
Skyscrapers meet mountains, as viewers can see the Andes from the streets of the city. For art stretching from the pre-Columbian era through contemporary, head to Forest Park. To see the most beautiful architecture in the city, wander around Plaza de Armas. Two major Neoclassical buildings are located here: the Royal Court Palace, which houses Chile’s National History Museum, and the Metropolitan Cathedral.
El Calafate, Argentina Known as the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park, El Calafate has grown in popularity in recent years. Located on the edge of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, the city is home to the Perito Moreno Glacier. Hiking and sightseeing are popular activities here, and thanks to the recent boost in tourism, the downtown area of El Calafate is growing, offering even more for visitors to enjoy.
Bogota, Columbia Food lovers will appreciate the fantastic wine and many food festivals that Bogota is known for. Considered the “Heart of the Andes”, visitors will also appreciate the mountains that act as a background to the stunning buildings located around the city. La Candelaria is best for these architectural wonders, with its cobblestone streets and colonial era structures. For upscale shopping and nightlife, the city’s Zona Rosa neighborhood is the best