7 amazing metropolises in Latin America

Latin America offers a host of fascinating, bustling, historic and charming metropolises.

Exquisite culinary experiences, historic monuments, stunning scenery and colourful culture.

Read here and learn more about seven of Latin America’s most fascinating metropolises.

The colourful city – Havana, Cuba

Colourful buildings line the streets in the Old Town of Havana, interspersed with historic colonial buildings. The beautiful shades of the old buildings add to the charm of the streets.

Out in front of the unique houses are the iconic American cars. Stroll through the area and be captivated by the Caribbean history. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you will see why as you walk in this unique area of Havana.

The Cuban capital has a lot to offer. Visit, for example, the art factory, Fabrica de Arte Cubano, if you’re interested in art, you enjoy a fun evening and you’re keen to experience the cool Havana. Round off your day sipping a well-deserved mojito after trawling the city streets.

Stay the night with a private Cuban family when they open their the doors to overnight guests as part of the Casas Particulares concept.

The capital of Cuba bustles with life. The fabulous Cuban rhythms coupled with the charm of the Cuban people are an experience that will accompany you throughout your holiday. The infectious, colourful culture is spellbinding.

The historic metropolis – Cusco, Peru

The air almost oozes history when you arrive at Cusco.

And for good reason. Cusco is one of the oldest cities in South America and it offers countless unique historical sights. Go for a walk in the area known as the historic centre, where you can see buildings built both in Spanish colonial style and in the traditional Inca style, lining the cosy cobblestone streets. And since you’re in the neighbourhood, be sure to visit the hub of the district, Plaza de Armas, a square with a very special atmosphere.

Another reason to visit Cusco is Korincancha, the temple of the sun. The temple, which is the most sacred of Inca sites, was once the heart of the Inca Empire. The city was said to have been shaped like a puma, and the sun temple is located on the tip of the puma’s tail.

If you’re up for even more history, the San Blas district is the perfect place to visit. It’s quite a walk, but you’ll be richly rewarded along the way. Hathunrumiyoc is a very special street, which leads you into the area.

Enjoy the somewhat quieter area, where several of the streets are for pedestrians only. And if you need a break, you can rest your feet at a café and perhaps sample the delicious Peruvian cuisine.

Cusco is one of those places that stays with you. Enjoy the beautiful Peruvian city.

The sprawling metropolis – Cartagena, Colombia

There is a city in northern Colombia that is really quite something.

Its many neighborhoods offer a whole host of colourful experiences. Cartagena’s Old Town, set behind an ancient city wall, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture. The city is a cultural melting pot of Colombian, African and Spanish influences.

One of the absolute biggest experiences you can enjoy comes from putting your best walking sandals on. The city’s many neighbourhoods all offer their own unique experiences.

Take a walk in the colourful Getsemani district, which has been transformed from an unsafe to a hip neighbourhood with beautiful street art, pleasant squares and charm in the space of just 15–20 years.

You can also spice up your stay with a trip to the beach. Close to the city centre are the Bocagrande and Castillogrande districts, which promise a relaxed day, but you can also choose to head to the south of the city, where Barú and its paradise beaches are located.

One of the most amazing things about Cartagena is that it has something for everyone.

The interesting metropolis – Quito, Ecuador

Quito is a gem that is only now being discovered.

The city was once just a stop on the way to the Galapagos Islands, but visitors are finally seeing what this stunning city has to offer in its own right.

Located at an altitude of 2,850 AMSL, Qunito is the second highest capital in the world. Its picturesque location nestled between the mountains, and its beautiful churches in the old city centre, are some of the city’s highlights.

The old city centre, which bears many traces of the Spanish colonial era, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its well-preserved historic and colonial buildings. And this is where the magnificent churches are located. Visit, for example, the La Compañia church, much of the interior which is gilt with gold leaf, so it’s for good reason that the church is considered by many to be the most beautiful church in Ecuador.

Another church you must not miss is Ecuador’s oldest church, San Francisco. The church took 150 years to build and houses – of all things – South America’s oldest brewery. Have a much-needed rest here and sample some delicious beers.

In addition to the beautiful buildings, churches and nature, you can also enjoy delicious Ecuadorian food in the city in the form of fresh ceviche, for example, while more Spanish/Ecuadorian-inspired dishes have also found their way onto some menus in the city.

Quito is heavenly.

The bustling metropolis – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

When you think of Rio, one of your first thoughts is probably that it is a fun, bustling metropolis. And you’re right about that! The pulse and joie de vivre of the city and its stunning scenery are just some of its top attractions.

If you visit the metropolis during the annual carnival, you’ll experience joy, rhythms and rapture to last a whole year. The atmosphere in the city at this time of the year is quite unbelievable. So, if you’re in need of a shot of joy, this is the city to visit.

The happy festival might only take place once a year, but joy is a part of the city’s DNA. The atmosphere is an attraction in itself – for example at the city’s stadium, Maracaña.

In Rio de Janeiro, you will find an array of extraordinary sights. Head to the Christ the Redeemer statue or the Sugar Loaf, from which you can enjoy the stunning view of the city. If you wish to experience the metropolis in a slightly unconventional way, you can go on a guided cycling tour that will leave you with sweat on your brow.

Rio de Janeiro is a city you just have to experience.

The sophisticated metropolis – Buenos Aires, Argentina

The Argentinian capital is in many ways reminiscent of a European metropolis – in fact, the city is also known as South America’s answer to Paris. This is due, in part, to the city’s diversity.

And Buenos Aires has something else in common with Paris. The world’s widest boulevard, Avenida 9 de Julio, is located in Buenos Aires and yet it has a real Parisian feel to it.

But the similarities with Europe don’t end there. The Argentinians eat “merienda”, which is reminiscent of English afternoon tea, and they eat dinner at 10 pm, like they do in Spain.

Besides the European characteristics, there are more Argentinian sights to experience such as tango, eating an exquisite Argentinian steak with a glass of red wine or exploring the stunning districts of La Boca and San Telmo. La Boca houses the old working class district, where the buildings are a riot of colour like no other, while San Telmo, the city’s oldest neighbourhood, is home to art.

You could also go for a walk in the more modern Buenos Aires – the so-called Puerto Madero district – where there is a harbour area offering every opportunity for a great meal.

If you’re into good food, catchy rhythms, beautiful architectural buildings and a hint of Europe, Buenos Aires is the place for you.

The fascinating metropolis – Mexico City, Mexico

It’s difficult to know where to start when it comes to one of the world’s largest cities, Mexico City.

Fascinating museums, delicious Mexican food, stunning oases and beautiful buildings. Mexico City has it all!

If you wish to become acquainted with the religious side of Mexico City, visit Basilica de Nuestra de Guadalupe – a magnificent church with space for no fewer than 10,000 people. Some 20 million pilgrims visit the church every year, and the Virgin of Guadalupe is the guardian angel not only of Mexico but of the whole of Central America.

When visiting the metropolis, a visit to the Frida Karlo Museum is a must. The blue house – Casa Azul – where she lived is now a museum. Learn about the life of a very special artist on a visit to one of the best museums in the city.

And head for Xochimilco Park in the south of the city, where you can enjoy the green oasis, sail along the park’s canals and learn more about the Mexican culture. Along with three other sights in Mexico City, the park is UNESCO World Heritage Site.

After a long day of exploring what Mexico City has to offer, it’s time for a tasty Mexican dinner.

Latin America offers a wealth of unique and beautiful metropolises,

each with its own captivating story to tell.

If you need help choosing the perfect tour, you are more than welcome to contact our travel specialists who are on hand to help you on your way to a wonderful holiday.

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