Puerto Varas
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Puerto Varas's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Arrive in Puerto Varas and check into your charming lakeside hotel. After settling in, enjoy a leisurely breakfast with a view of Lake Llanquihue, immersing yourself in the peaceful atmosphere. Spend your morning taking a stroll along the waterfront promenade, admiring the surrounding landscapes and vibrant gardens.
In the afternoon, explore the quaint streets of Puerto Varas, admiring the well-preserved German architecture. Visit the local artisan shops and galleries, where you can find unique crafts and local products. For a refreshment, stop by a café to savor some traditional Chilean pastries.
As dusk falls, head to one of the lakeside restaurants for dinner, sampling fresh seafood while taking in spectacular views of the Osorno Volcano. After dinner, take a quiet walk along the lakeshore, basking in the tranquility of the evening. If you’re up for it, find a cozy spot to enjoy a nightcap under the starry sky.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a day trip to Lake Todos los Santos. A scenic drive leads you through lush forests and breathtaking landscapes, with opportunities for stunning photo stops. Once you arrive, enjoy a boat ride that reveals the lake's stunning turquoise waters and surrounding mountains.
After the boat ride, explore the stunning Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, where you can hike one of the many trails that wind through native forests. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you make your way through this pristine environment. Take a break for lunch at a picturesque spot overlooking the lake.
Return to Puerto Varas in the evening and relax before dinner at a local restaurant. Indulge in traditional Chilean dishes, perhaps trying a chupe de mariscos, a delicious seafood stew. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the town to appreciate the river views illuminated by the night lights.
Start your day with breakfast at a local market, sampling fresh fruits and pastries. Afterward, visit the Historical Museum of Puerto Varas to learn about the town’s German heritage and indigenous cultures. Stroll through the market, where the locals sell fresh produce and handmade crafts.
In the afternoon, take part in a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Chilean dishes, using local ingredients. Enjoy the fruits of your labor with your fellow participants during lunch. Later, visit the stunning Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, renowned for its striking architecture and rich history.
As the sun sets, unwind by attending a local folkloric music performance that showcases the vibrant culture of the region. Share a few laughs and stories with locals, embracing the warm hospitality of the Chilean culture. End the night with a nightcap at a local bar, enjoying the cozy ambiance.
After an early breakfast, board a ferry to Chiloe Island, famous for its colorful stilt houses and unique folklore. The ferry ride offers stunning views across the water, making for a picturesque journey. Upon arrival, begin your exploration of the island's charming towns.
Discover the traditional wooden churches of Chiloe, which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Lunch in a local eatery will give you a taste of the island’s culinary delights, including curanto, a traditional dish. Continue exploring by visiting local markets and handicraft shops, finding unique souvenirs.
As the day winds down, return to Puerto Varas and relax in your hotel or take a walk by the lake. Enjoy dinner at your leisure, possibly trying local dishes like seafood or hearty stews. Cap off the evening by soaking in the serene atmosphere of the lakeside scenery.
Fuel up with breakfast before heading to the Osorno Volcano for a day of adventure. Take the scenic route to the ski resort at the base of the volcano, where breathtaking views await. Start your hike surrounded by stunning landscapes and diverse flora.
Continue your hike to discover panoramic vistas from higher elevations, with clear views of Lake Llanquihue and the surrounding mountains. Upon returning, enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature, surrounded by beautiful scenery. Take the time to capture stunning photographs to remember your adventure.
After returning from your hike, treat yourself to a well-deserved dinner at a local steakhouse, where you can savor Chilean meats. Share highlights from your day’s adventures with fellow travelers or friends. Spend the rest of the evening strolling through the town, taking in the vibrant nightlife.
Take a leisurely morning to relax and enjoy breakfast at your hotel. Spend the morning unwinding, perhaps with a spa treatment or a massage, taking in the stunning views of the lake. For the more adventurous, you can also opt for a gentle yoga class by the lake.
Spend your afternoon in leisure, enjoying lakeside parks or trying your hand at kayaking if you’re feeling energetic. Grab a light lunch at a lakeside café, enjoying the calm of nature around you. Consider visiting local vineyards for a wine tasting, learning about the unique flavors of Chilean wines.
As the day comes to a close, join a sunset boat tour on Lake Llanquihue, enjoying the breathtaking views during golden hour. Consider stopping for dinner at a restaurant with international cuisine, sampling dishes from around the world. Conclude your day with a night walk under the stars by the lakeshore.
After breakfast, head to Frutillar, a charming town known for its German heritage and lakeside scenery. Spend some time at the Teatro del Lago, a beautiful concert hall situated on the shore. As you walk along the waterfront, relish the fresh air and stunning lake views.
Enjoy lunch at one of Frutillar's renowned cafes, indulging in kuchen, a traditional German pastry. Explore local history at the Museo Colonial Alemán, showcasing the region's cultural heritage. Take a leisurely walk through the artistic streets adorned with beautiful gardens.
Return to Puerto Varas and unwind before dinner at a waterfront restaurant. Relish your meal while reflecting on the day's explorations and the cultural insights gained. If you have the energy, find a local event or concert to enjoy the vibrant cultural scene.
Start your morning with an energizing breakfast, then prepare for adventure as you head to the Andes for a day of exploration. Experience the thrill of either mountain biking or horseback riding through breathtaking landscapes. Take in the crisp mountain air and scenic views as you forge ahead.
After enjoying your chosen adventure, settle down for a picnic lunch amid nature, soaking in the beauty surrounding you. Spend the afternoon hiking or exploring more of the mountainous terrain, discovering hidden waterfalls and valleys. Capture incredible photos that showcase the natural beauty of Chile.
Return to Puerto Varas where you can freshen up before dinner at a cozy local restaurant. Treat yourself to a farewell dinner, enjoying Chilean wine and local specialties. Reflect on your adventurous day and share stories with newfound friends before winding down for the night.
On your last morning in Puerto Varas, enjoy a leisurely breakfast as you take in your final views of the stunning lake and mountains. Spend the morning wandering through any last-minute shops or gardens you hadn’t visited yet. Capture the essence of the town with some final photos.
Prepare for departure by checking out of your hotel and perhaps visiting a few final sites or spots of interest. If time allows, savor a light lunch at your favorite café from your trip. Pack your bags with memories of this beautiful region as you prepare for the journey ahead.
As you leave Puerto Varas, reflect on the incredible experiences you've had during your stay, from cultural explorations to natural wonders. Whether it's your next destination calling or a journey home, cherish the beauty and warmth of Chile you've encountered. Until next time, Puerto Varas!