Things To Do
in La Serena

La Serena is a charming coastal city in northern Chile, known for its beautiful beaches and colonial architecture. It boasts a rich history, with many buildings dating back to the 19th century. Visitors can explore its vibrant cultural scene, featuring various festivals and markets throughout the year.

With a pleasant climate and stunning natural surroundings, La Serena is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking relaxation alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the historic Plaza de Armas, where you can admire the cathedral and surrounding architecture. Take a stroll down Avenida del Mar to enjoy the ocean views.

afternoon
:

Visit the La Serena Archaeological Museum to learn about the region's rich history. Then, head to the beach for some sunbathing or a swim.

evening
:

Dine at a local seafood restaurant and enjoy the fresh catch of the day, followed by a leisurely walk along the beach to watch the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a morning trip to the Elqui Valley, known for its stunning landscapes and vineyards. Visit a pisco distillery to learn about Chile's famous spirit.

afternoon
:

Explore the quaint town of Vicuña and visit the Gabriela Mistral Museum dedicated to the Nobel laureate poet. Enjoy lunch at a local eatery and sample traditional Chilean dishes.

evening
:

Return to La Serena and experience the nightlife at one of the beach bars, where you can listen to live music and enjoy a cocktail.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🏨Hotel Night$70
🚕Taxi Ride (within city)$5
🛒Grocery Shopping (weekly)$40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and coastal scenery.
  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Pleasant climate year-round.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Some areas may feel touristy.
  • Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Me gustaría una cerveza" - I would like a beer

Places to Visit in La Serena

Visit one of these nice places.

El Faro de La Serena

The iconic lighthouse is a great spot for taking photos, especially during sunset.

Playa La Herradura

A picturesque beach with stunning views and vibrant colors, perfect for capturing the beauty of the coast.

Japanese Garden

A tranquil garden featuring traditional Japanese landscaping, ideal for serene nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in La Serena

La Serena offers a delightful culinary experience, with fresh seafood being a highlight. Locals take pride in their traditional dishes, which reflect the region's coastal heritage.

La Serena Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pastel de Choclo

A corn pie made with ground corn, meat, olives, and hard-boiled eggs, baked to perfection.

Must-Try!

Ceviche

Fresh fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, cilantro, and chili, served cold.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado La Recova

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious street food options.

Food Stalls at Playa La Herradura

Vendors selling freshly caught seafood, empanadas, and local snacks right by the beach.

Climate Guide

Weather

La Serena enjoys a semi-arid climate with mild temperatures year-round. Summers are warm, averaging around 25°C (77°F) during the day, while winters are cooler, with nighttime temperatures dropping to around 10°C (50°F). Rainfall is minimal and mostly occurs in winter months, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities. Coastal breezes provide a pleasant respite from the heat in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common, and it's polite to greet everyone in a group when entering a room.

Personal Space

Chilean people tend to stand closer during conversations, so don’t be surprised by the proximity.

Dining Etiquette

It's customary to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and to use utensils properly.

Safety Guide

Safety

La Serena is generally a safe city for tourists, but it's always advisable to take common-sense precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas, and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. It's also wise to stay informed about local safety recommendations while visiting.

Tipping in La Serena

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

A tip of around 10% is customary in restaurants. It's also appreciated in taxis and for hotel staff.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December - February)

Expect warm temperatures, ideal for beach activities. This is peak tourist season, so plan accommodations in advance.

Autumn (March - May)

Milder temperatures and fewer crowds make this a great time for sightseeing and outdoor adventures.

Winter (June - August)

Cooler temperatures and occasional rain, but it’s a good time for visiting museums and enjoying local cuisine.

Spring (September - November)

A beautiful time to visit as flowers bloom and temperatures rise, perfect for hiking and exploring nature.

Nightlife Guide

La Serena at Night

La Serena has a vibrant nightlife scene, particularly along Avenida del Mar, where beach bars and clubs come alive after sunset. You can find live music, dancing, and a variety of cocktails to enjoy. Additionally, there are quieter bars where you can relax and socialize with locals. The atmosphere is generally friendly and welcoming, making it a great place to experience Chilean nightlife.

Hiking in La Serena

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Piedra de la Virgen

A scenic hiking trail offering breathtaking views of the Elqui Valley and the Andes mountains.

Cerro Grande

A popular hiking destination that provides panoramic views of La Serena and the coastline.

Airports

How to reach La Serena by plane.

La Florida Airport (LSC)

Located just 5 km from the city center, La Florida Airport offers domestic flights to Santiago and other cities. It's a small airport with basic facilities.

Getting Around

Walkability

La Serena is quite walkable, especially in the downtown area and along the waterfront. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot. The pedestrian-friendly streets and well-maintained sidewalks enhance the experience for visitors.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Chilean Locals

The majority of residents are Chilean, with a rich mix of cultural influences reflecting the country's heritage.

Tourists

La Serena attracts both domestic and international tourists, particularly during the summer months, contributing to its diverse cultural atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a national passion, and local teams often play matches that draw enthusiastic crowds.

Surfing

With great waves along the coast, La Serena is popular among surfers, particularly at Playa El Faro.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in La Serena is generally manageable, with peak hours during morning and evening commutes. Public transportation includes buses and shared taxis, which are affordable and convenient for getting around. However, many visitors find walking or biking more enjoyable due to the city's compact size and scenic routes.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting La Serena.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's recommended to ask for modifications if needed.

Gluten-Free Options

While gluten-free options are available, it's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in La Serena is generally good, with several public and private hospitals available. The public healthcare system can be used by residents, while private clinics and hospitals offer services to tourists. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Chile

Read more in our Chile 2025 Travel Guide.

Chile Travel Guide