Things To Do
in Valdivia

Valdivia, Chile, is a picturesque city located at the confluence of several rivers, surrounded by lush forests and hills. Known for its rich German heritage, the city boasts charming architecture, vibrant markets, and a lively cultural scene. The beautiful waterfront along the Calle-Calle River offers stunning views and numerous recreational opportunities.

Valdivia is also famous for its craft beer and seafood, making it a culinary delight for visitors.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Valdivia Market, where you can enjoy a traditional breakfast of 'pan amasado' (home-baked bread) and local cheese.

afternoon
:

Take a stroll along the riverfront, visiting the historic Fort Niebla and the nearby Kunstmann Brewery for a tour and tasting.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at 'La Ultima Frontera,' where you can savor fresh seafood dishes, followed by a relaxed walk in Plaza de la República.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the Botanical Garden of the Universidad Austral de Chile, featuring diverse native plants and serene walking paths.

afternoon
:

Explore the Museo Histórico y Antropológico, which showcases the region's history and indigenous culture, followed by a walk through the nearby Parque Saval.

evening
:

Dine at 'El Growler,' a popular spot for craft beer and delicious burgers, and finish your night at a local pub enjoying live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10-20
Coffee$2-4
🍺Craft beer$3-6
🚍Public transport ticket$1
🏨Hotel per night$50-100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
  • Delicious local cuisine and craft beer.
  • Weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Some tourist sites may have limited English information.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Valdivia

Visit one of these nice places.

Calle-Calle River

The scenic riverbank offers stunning views at sunset, with reflections of the surrounding hills and city lights.

Fort Niebla

This historical site provides a picturesque backdrop with its ancient walls and the ocean in the distance.

Plaza de la República

A vibrant square surrounded by beautiful architecture and lively street life, perfect for capturing local culture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Valdivia

Valdivia offers a delightful culinary experience, with a mix of traditional Chilean dishes and influences from German cuisine.

Valdivia Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ceviche

A refreshing dish made with fresh fish cured in citrus juices, typically served with onions and cilantro.

Must-Try!

Kuchen

A traditional German-inspired cake, often filled with fruits like berries or apples, commonly enjoyed with coffee.

Curanto

A hearty dish made with various meats, potatoes, and seafood, traditionally cooked in a hole in the ground.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Valdivia Market

A vibrant market featuring local produce, artisanal products, and street food stalls offering everything from empanadas to fresh seafood.

Climate Guide

Weather

Valdivia has a temperate oceanic climate characterized by mild temperatures and high humidity. Summers are warm with average temperatures around 20°C (68°F), while winters are cool and rainy, with temperatures averaging around 10°C (50°F). The region experiences most rainfall from May to August, while spring and summer are relatively drier, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common, and it is polite to greet with a smile when entering shops or restaurants.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal, and it's customary to keep your hands above the table during dining.

Personal Space

Chileans value personal space, so maintain a respectful distance during conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Valdivia is generally a safe city for tourists, but it's important to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and be cautious when using ATMs. It's advisable to stay in well-lit areas at night and avoid isolated places.

Tipping in Valdivia

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of 10% at restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (September - November)

The weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities, with blooming flowers and vibrant greenery.

Summer (December - February)

Warm temperatures are ideal for exploring the outdoors, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn (March - May)

Temperatures cool down, and the foliage turns beautiful shades of red and orange, a great time for photography.

Winter (June - August)

Expect cooler temperatures and more rain; it's a good time for cozy indoor activities and enjoying local cuisine.

Nightlife Guide

Valdivia at Night

Valdivia has a lively nightlife scene, with numerous bars and pubs offering live music, craft beer, and a welcoming atmosphere. Popular spots include local breweries and clubs where you can enjoy dancing and socializing. The nightlife typically begins late, around 10 PM, and continues into the early morning hours, especially on weekends.

Hiking in Valdivia

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Parque Oncol

This national park offers various trails through lush forests, providing stunning views of the coastline and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

Cerro La Virgen

A popular hiking destination offering panoramic views of Valdivia and its surroundings, accessible via well-marked trails.

Airports

How to reach Valdivia by plane.

Pichoy Airport (ZAL)

Located about 30 kilometers from the city center, Pichoy Airport offers domestic flights to major Chilean cities and is the main gateway for travelers visiting Valdivia.

Getting Around

Walkability

Valdivia is a highly walkable city with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian areas, especially along the riverfront and in the city center. Many attractions are within walking distance, making it enjoyable to explore on foot. The flat terrain makes it accessible for all types of walkers.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Mapuche

The Mapuche people have a significant presence in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity and heritage of Valdivia.

Chilean-Germans

The city has a strong German influence due to historical immigration, reflected in the local architecture and cuisine.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Valdivia, with local teams and passionate fans that often gather to support their clubs.

Rugby

Rugby is also gaining popularity in the region, with several clubs and a growing number of players participating in local leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Valdivia is generally light, but it can become congested during peak hours, particularly near the city center. Public transportation includes buses that connect different parts of the city, making it easy to navigate without a car. Biking and walking are also popular due to the city's compact size.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Valdivia.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check if they can accommodate specific dietary needs.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are increasingly available, particularly in larger restaurants and cafes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Valdivia is generally good, with public and private hospitals providing adequate services. The main hospital in the city is Hospital Base Valdivia, which offers a range of medical services. Visitors are advised to have travel insurance that covers healthcare, as some treatments may be more expensive for tourists.

Discover Chile

Read more in our Chile 2025 Travel Guide.

Chile Travel Guide