Latin America’s Most Beautiful Cities for Your Next Adventure

In your dreams at night, do you see a place filled with color, culture, and jaw-dropping scenery? It’s likely that place is Latin America. The entire region is bursting with colorful cities that are as vibrant as they are beautiful – from colonial charmers to modern hubs surrounded by nature. 

If Latin America’s been calling your name, you should definitely answer. And, to help you start planning, we’ve rounded up ten of the most stunning cities – five popular hotspots that are well-loved and five under-the-radar treasures that you might not know about (yet). 

Whether you love historic streets, mountain views, or just a good plate of empanadas, there’s something on this list that will sweep you away and steal your heart forever.

Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena is one of those cities that feels like stepping into a fairytale. Imagine pastel-colored houses, bougainvillea-draped balconies, and cobbled streets surrounded by centuries-old walls. Founded in 1533, this port city played a huge role in the Spanish empire, and it has the forts and churches to prove it.

When you’re here, wander around the walled Old City, pop into little cafés for fresh arepas, and see the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas – a fortress with fantastic views. If the sun gets too hot, all you have to do is hop on a boat to the nearby Rosario Islands for white-sand beaches and crystal-clear water. It’s touristy, yes, but for good reason. Cartagena is romantic, lively, and absolutely unforgettable.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires is often called the “Paris of South America” and, honestly, it lives up to the name. With its elegant architecture, leafy boulevards, and passionate tango culture, the city is incredibly charming. It’s a fiery mix of European sophistication and Latin soul.

Each neighborhood has its own flavor. San Telmo is all cobblestones and antiques, while Palermo is full of trendy boutiques and street art. Don’t miss the colorful houses of La Boca or a tour of the historic Teatro Colón. And, of course, don’t leave without savoring a steak dinner and a tango show. Or, better yet, join a class yourself. Where better to pick up a few pointers? 

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

There’s nowhere in the world quite like Rio. It’s a city of dramatic contrasts. Mountains, jungles, and the sea all collide here in the most spectacular way. Add in some samba music and those golden beaches, and it’s easy to see why it’s so iconic.

Yes, you’ll want to see all the important things: Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Copacabana Beach. But, there’s more to it than that. Hike in Tijuca National Park for a glimpse of all the wildlife and waterfalls. Then, visit the bohemian Santa Teresa neighborhood with its steep hills and art studios. Rio is bold, beautiful, and completely alive.

Cusco, Peru

Before you race off to Machu Picchu (which you definitely should), take time to explore Cusco. Once the capital of the Inca Empire, this city blends ancient and colonial history in the most beautiful way. Stone walls from Incan times still stand alongside Spanish cathedrals and markets.

Stroll through the Plaza de Armas, visit the majestic Qorikancha temple, and sample the local cuisine. The San Pedro Market is a sensory overload in a most magnificent way. And, while Cusco is a gateway to the Sacred Valley, the city itself deserves more than a quick overnight stay.