Puerto Varas Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Nestled in the scenic Region Los Lagos of Chile, Puerto Varas is a city that beckons travelers with its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. Known as "La ciudad de las rosas" or the City of Roses, Puerto Varas is a destination that captivates with its stunning views, charming architecture, and serene atmosphere.
Puerto Varas sits on the shores of Lake Llanquihue, Chile's second-largest lake, offering breathtaking vistas of the Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes. These snow-capped peaks provide a dramatic backdrop to the city's landscape and are a haven for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. Visitors can embark on a boat tour of the lake or engage in water sports such as kayaking and windsurfing.
The city's architecture is a testament to its German immigrant heritage, with traditional wooden homes and the iconic Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, an unmistakable landmark with its high towers and striking Baroque style. Exploring the city's streets reveals a blend of German influence and local Chilean culture, with a range of shops and eateries serving up both traditional German fare and Chilean specialties.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find Puerto Varas an ideal base for exploring the nearby Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, home to the Petrohué Falls and Todos los Santos Lake. Hiking, horseback riding, and zip-lining are among the activities that draw visitors to this natural paradise.
For those interested in cultural experiences, the city hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Semana Varasina, which celebrates local traditions with music, dance, and gastronomy. The Museo Pablo Fierro, a quirky museum showcasing the personal collection of its artist founder, offers an insight into the city's history and culture.
Puerto Varas also serves as a gateway to the Chiloé Archipelago, a group of islands known for their distinctive wooden churches, 16 of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and their rich mythological traditions.
The culinary scene in Puerto Varas is a delight, with an abundance of fresh seafood from the Pacific Ocean and Lake Llanquihue. Local specialties include curanto, a traditional dish cooked in a hole in the ground, and the German-inspired kuchen, a type of fruit tart that reflects the city's European heritage.
Puerto Varas Attractions - What to See and Explore
Puerto Varas offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Casa Muñoz, Museo Antonio Felmer, Schwerter House, El Taller Azul. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Puerto Varas – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Puerto Varas, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Petrohué Waterfalls (Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park), Osorno Volcano (Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park), Calbuco Volcano (Llanquihue National Reserve).
Best Time To Visit Puerto Varas
Learn when is the best time to travel to Puerto Varas weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the City
Food & drink
CuisineA guide to some of the best local dishes and drinks that you will meet in the region.
Crudos
Bistec alemán, also known as crudo alemán, is a flavorful German-Chilean dish that closely resembles steak tartare. It features finely chopped raw beef served on pre-sliced white bread. The dish is typically garnished with lemon juice, chopped onions, and a tangy...
Dish
Churro
Churros are a beloved fried-dough pastry that originated in Spain and Portugal. Made primarily from choux pastry, these delectable treats have gained global popularity, especially in regions with Spanish and Portuguese heritage, such as the Philippines and many parts...
Pastry
Ceviche
Ceviche, also known as cebiche, seviche, or sebiche, is a cherished Latin American seafood dish with origins in either Peru or Ecuador. This refreshing dish features fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices—typically lemon or lime—and is seasoned with chili peppers...
Dish
Chupe
Chupe is a beloved South American dish renowned for its hearty and flavorful stews. These stews can be made with a variety of ingredients, including chicken, red meat, lamb, beef tripe, fish, shrimp, crayfish, shellfish, and vegetables such as potatoes or yuca.
Paila
A paila is a versatile piece of cookware that is a staple in many Spanish-speaking South American kitchens. It's typically a large, shallow metal pan or an earthenware bowl, ideal for both cooking and serving food. When made from clay, these pailas are excellent at...
Los Lagos