Santiago has a distinctly European flavor, which is evident in its buildings and the Parque Forestal, designed by a French landscaper on the model of Parisian parks. Visitors can walk down tree-lined paths along the Mapocho, past small squares and the Museo de Bellas Artes.

Across the river, the Bellavista neighborhood is home to many restaurants, street vendors and cafes. The Parque Metropolitano is Santiago's playground, with walking trails, picnic areas and a zoo. For stunning views of the city, students should head to the top of Cerro San Cristòbal, accessible by bus, funicular, or by a vigorous hike.

Santiago is the central point of a region filled with attractive sites and activities. Only 60 km away are the main South American ski centers, and the beautiful beaches of the Pacific are only an hour's drive to the northwest. Just south of Santiago lie the rich and beautiful vineyards of the Maipo Valley, one of the world's most esteemed wine producing regions. This is truly a stunning and exciting place to study Spanish!

Santiago is not famed for its architectural heritage, unlike other Latin American cities. However you will find a city of lively markets, atmospheric old quarters and shady parks with thriving artistic, social and cultural scenes. The city's museums, albeit small, boast impressive collections, while quality cuisine is accessible to those on even the tightest of budgets.

Since colonial times, Santiago's focus has been its main square, the Plaza de Armas, in the heart of the old town. Surrounded by the grandest of the city's surviving Spanish public buildings, it acts as a haven from Santiago's often oppressive traffic. Local artists come here to sell their latest canvasses and although visitors are unlikely to pick up an undiscovered masterpiece, it is a good spot for an atmospheric outdoor drink.

The square's western side is taken up entirely by the Metropolitan Cathedral, built in the mid-18th century, with the later addition of its two bell towers in the early 19th century. Near the cathedral, occupying the northwest corner of the square, is the Correos Central (central post office). Another well-attended attraction is the weekly outdoor concert performed by the Santiago police band on Sunday mornings.

Our Spanish language program also allows you plenty of time to discover the culture of Chile & Santiago