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The best cities in Chile according to what type of traveler you are

The best cities in Chile according to what type of traveler you are

By: Hernan Claro - 28 March, 2025

best cities in Chile

In Chile you will not only find a variety of unique landscapes, which run from imposing glaciers to the driest desert in the world, but also multicultural, modern and colonial cities with an amazing architecture.

If you’re prepared to go on your dream trip, we will show you the city in Chile that you must visit according to what type of traveler you are. Urban, bohemian fans of nature, adventurers and chill, everyone has a place in our country!

Santiago, the capital of urban explorers

Santiago, the capital of Chile, is the perfect destination for urban and cultural travelers. Travelers who enjoy the noise of big cities will consider Santiago a diverse offer.

You can visit museums such as the Museum of Memory and Human Rights, the National Museum of Fine Arts or National Natural History Museum. Moreover, for shopping and cuisine fans, neighborhoods like Bellavista and Lastarria offer a wide variety of restaurants, bars, attractive shops and markets.

Urban adventurers can also enjoy spectacular views from the San Cristobal hill or Santa Lucia hill, which are located in the center of the city, and it’s perfect for a short walk or to take a stroll outdoors.

Valparaíso: A destination for bohemians

Valparaíso is a colorful and vibrant city that attracts especially bohemian and artistic travelers. Its architecture is unique, narrow streets are filled with urban art and its famous hills are perfect for those who look for an authentic cultural experience.

The port of Valparaiso, with its scenic elevators and with a lot of bars and restaurants, invites us to dive into its mazes full of history. Moreover, travelers interested in history and culture can visit Pablo Neruda’s house, La Sebastiana, and the National Maritime Museum, that gives the city a unique vibe of history and creativity.

Punta Arenas is for nature and adventure lovers

If you are a traveler looking for big adventures in incredible and challenging natural environments, we recommend you visit Punta Arenas, the entrance to the Magallanes Region and the Chilean Antarctic.

With its proximity to the Torres del Paine National Park and the well-known Isla Magdalena, where you can see penguins, it is a world class destination for travelers who are looking for outdoor activities such as hiking, fauna observation and navigation.

Tourists can also explore the Strait of Magellan, a key point in the history of navigation. For travelers who love extreme fauna and impressive landscapes, Punta Arenas is a unique experience at the end of the world.

Get to know Concepción, the city for rock fans

Concepción is key city for travelers interested in history, culture and music of Chile, especially those who enjoy instruments like guitar, bass and drums. That’s why it is known as the city of rock!

It is one of the main cities in the Biobío Region and it’s surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes such as Nonguén National Park, which offers ecotourism activities.

Travelers interested in the local culture can also enjoy music and theatrical festivals that stay for the whole year. Moreover, its closeness to the shore and ocean allows travelers to enjoy nearby beaches, like Dichato or Ramuntcho Beach.

Relax and natural connection in San Pedro de Atacama

Romantic Experiences San Pedro

San Pedro de Atacama, located in the driest desert in the world, is perfect for adventure travelers who want to explore unique and impressive landscapes.

A few kilometers away from Calama, where the closest airport is located, you’ll get to know the Moon Valley, with Altiplanic Lagoons and Tatio geysers, one of the biggest geothermal lands in the world.

In this environment you’ll find unique relaxing activities such as taking a bath in the hot springs of Puritama, floating in the salt waters on Cejar Lagoon or contemplating the stars at some of the local astronomic observatories, thanks to the clear skies and the low light pollution. The connection with nature is actually there!

Valdivia for ecotourism lovers

Valdivia is a perfect destination for travelers interested in ecotourism, history and colonial culture. This southern city, surrounded by lakes, forests and parks, offers a back-to-outdoor experience through activities like hiking and sailing trips on the Calle-Calle and Valdivia rivers.

You’ll get to know the Selva Valdiviana, a rainy forest located at the end of the world. In fact, it is the most southern in this category.

Travelers that enjoy history and architecture can also explore the German heritage in the city, visible in its buildings, breweries and typical cuisine. We recommend you visit the Botanical Garden at the Universidad Austral, the local museum, the Saval Park and the famous brewery Kunstmann.

Iquique, the paradise of extreme sports

Iquique is known for being the capital of adrenaline for adventure travelers. Located in the Atacama Desert, this coastal city is famous for its extreme sports, specially sandboarding, paragliding, surfing and stand-up paddle.

Travelers who look for strong emotions will find a wide variety of outdoor activities in Iquique.

Moreover, its colonial architecture in neighborhoods like Baquedano and the relaxing vibe makes the city a perfect place for those who like to combine adventure and resting. Iquique is also famous for its closeness to Isluga Volcano National Park.

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