Today, Santiago is a city that occupies the fertile central valley of Chile between the Andes and the coast, with the Mapocho River crossing the city from east to west. The most remarkable thing about Santiago, with its five million inhabitants, is perhaps its diversity. It is a city with many faces, great and varied changes, and a social and political landscape that sometimes takes us back to the colonial city it once was.

Almost 500 years after Pedro de Valdivia traced around the Plaza de Armas the 35 blocks that would compose the city in 1541, Santiago is now an extensive urban environment with skyscrapers and modern telecommunications networks. However, you need to explore it in order to discover its multiple facets that were shaped by history.

The Andes are available for exploration from Santiago, with private guided trips. For history lovers, a great insight into the Pinochet years can be found at the Museum of Memory and Human Rights. The Bohemian neighbourhood has a wealth of restaurants and bars to sit back and unwind to some culinary delights. For an architectural delight, the ornate Metropolitan Cathedral (Catedral Metropolitana) is open to tour and take photos of from inside. Santiago really does have something for everyoneone.

Whatever you decide to do, whether it's a single, twin or multi centre, we can help. Call us for free now on 01737 646416 for more ideas on what to see and do and to book your holiday to Santiago in Chile.