Nestled in southern Chile, Puerto Montt is a charming port city known for its blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique experiences. Surrounded by pristine lakes, majestic volcanoes, and lush forests, Puerto Montt is the gateway to exploring the stunning Chilean Patagonia. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or adventure seeker, this city has something for everyone. Let’s explore the top landmarks and must-see sites in Puerto Montt that you shouldn’t miss on your visit.
Angelmó Market is one of the most iconic landmarks in Puerto Montt and a must-visit for any traveller. This vibrant market near the waterfront offers a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells. Angelmó is renowned for its fresh seafood, and you’ll find everything from fish and shellfish to Chile’s famous king crab and sea bass.
Aside from the seafood stalls, you’ll also encounter local handicrafts, textiles, and traditional Chilean products. The market is a perfect place to sample local dishes such as curanto, a hearty traditional dish made from shellfish, meat, and vegetables. It’s also an excellent spot for buying unique souvenirs and handmade crafts.
As you wander the market, you'll be captivated by its colourful and lively atmosphere. The area is bustling with restaurants and small stalls, where both locals and tourists come together to enjoy fresh seafood and experience the maritime culture of Puerto Montt.
For those looking to immerse themselves in nature, Alerce Andino National Park is a natural wonderland that should be on your list. Located just outside Puerto Montt, this vast park is home to ancient forests, crystal-clear rivers, and awe-inspiring landscapes. A highlight of the park is the Alerce trees, one of the oldest and tallest trees in the world.
The park is perfect for hiking, with several trails catering to different experience levels. The most popular trail leads to the Alerce Milenario, a 3,000-year-old tree that serves as a testament to nature’s resilience. The park also boasts diverse wildlife, including birds, deer, and pumas, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Whether you’re keen to hike, bird watch, or soak in the peaceful surroundings, Alerce Andino is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the untamed beauty of Chile’s Patagonia region.
The striking Osorno Volcano is one of the most recognisable natural landmarks in the region, visible from nearly every corner of Puerto Montt. This majestic volcano towers over the landscape, with its snow-capped peak contrasting with the surrounding green valleys and blue lakes.
Osorno Volcano is within the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, Chile’s oldest national park. The park is home to several hiking trails that offer fantastic views of the volcano, its slopes, and the nearby Lake Llanquihue. During the winter, the area transforms into a popular skiing and snowboarding destination, while in the summer, it becomes a hub for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers.
The drive to the volcano is spectacular, with scenic routes leading you through forests and past clear blue lakes. If you’re not interested in hiking or skiing, you can still enjoy the views from the Ski Centre, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.
Don’t forget to take a camera, as the views from the top are breathtaking, especially at sunset when the sky is painted in hues of orange and pink.
Llanquihue Lake is a tranquil and scenic spot located just outside Puerto Montt. As one of Chile’s largest lakes, it offers plenty of opportunities for water activities, such as kayaking, fishing, and boat tours. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and mountains, providing stunning views wherever you go.
One of the most popular towns located along the shores of Llanquihue Lake is Puerto Varas, known for its German-inspired architecture and charming atmosphere. Puerto Varas referred to as the City of Roses, and its charming setting makes it an ideal spot for a relaxing day trip from Puerto Montt. You can stroll along the lake’s shores, visit the local shops and cafes, or take a boat tour to explore the lake and its surrounding islands.
The lake is also home to several private beaches, where visitors can enjoy the peaceful area while soaking up the natural beauty.
Puerto Montt’s Costanera is a scenic waterfront promenade that stretches along the city’s bay. It’s a fantastic place to take a walk, relax, or enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains and the Pacific Ocean. The Costanera offers magnificent views of the Reloncaví Estuary, and the nearby islands and volcanoes.
Along the promenade, you’ll find a range of restaurants and cafes where you can sample local delicacies, such as fresh seafood and traditional Chilean dishes. The area is also home to several public art installations, providing a vibrant atmosphere for those who enjoy a mix of nature and culture.
The Costanera is beautiful at sunset, when the sky turns orange and pink, and the bay's calm waters mirror the colours above. It’s a peaceful spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
The Church of Puerto Montt (Iglesia de Puerto Montt), also known as the Cathedral of Puerto Montt, is one of the most significant historical buildings in the city. Built in 1856, the church represents colonial-era architecture and offers a glimpse into the city’s religious and cultural history.
The church in the Plaza de Armas, the main square of Puerto Montt, and its distinctive wooden structure is a striking feature in the city’s skyline. The interior is equally beautiful, with stained-glass windows and wooden pews adding charm. The Church of Puerto Montt offers a peaceful space for reflection and gives visitors insight into the city's strong traditions.
Calbuco Volcano is another of the region’s active volcanoes near Puerto Varas and Ensenada. This powerful natural landmark is often visible from Puerto Montt and creates a dramatic backdrop to the city’s skyline. Although it erupted in 2015, Calbuco remains one of Chile’s most important active volcanoes.
The volcano is surrounded by pristine forests and lakes, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. You can visit the Calbuco National Reserve, home to various hiking trails, rivers, and wildlife. The reserve offers the opportunity to explore the lush forests and spot unique bird species while taking in incredible views of the volcano.
If you’re interested in learning more about Puerto Montt’s history and culture, the Regional Museum of Puerto Montt is a must-visit. The museum offers exhibits that highlight the city’s colonial past, the culture of the indigenous Mapuche people, and the region’s natural environment. It also includes artefacts and collections related to the city’s maritime heritage.
Located in the city's heart, the museum provides an excellent way to deepen your understanding of Puerto Montt’s evolution from a small settlement to a bustling port city. It’s an ideal stop for those looking to enrich their visit with knowledge about the region’s history and culture.
Chiloé Island is just a short ferry ride from Puerto Montt and an essential destination for travellers exploring the region. The island is known for its unique culture, traditional stilt houses (palafitos), and wooden churches, and is known as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Chiloé is also famous for its culinary traditions, including the island’s version of curanto and its queso de Chiloé (Chilean cheese). A visit to the island offers a mix of history, nature, and gastronomy, making it a must-see for those seeking to explore a unique part of Chilean culture.
To fully experience everything Puerto Montt and the surrounding areas have to offer, renting a car is the most convenient and flexible option. With a car, you can easily visit top attractions like Alerce Andino National Park, Osorno Volcano, Llanquihue Lake, and Chiloé Island without worrying about transportation schedules or limited access.
Rent a car in Chile with Finalrentals and enjoy exploring at your own pace. Whether planning a scenic drive through Patagonia, visiting hidden gems, or making your way from one landmark to another, Renting a car makes the journey more convenient and enjoyable.
With Finalrentals, you can find great deals on various vehicles to suit your needs, from compact cars to SUVs for thrilling mountain adventures. Finalrentals offers flexible booking options, and with convenient pick-up and drop-off locations, you’ll be able to start your journey as soon as you arrive.
Puerto Montt is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, and unique cultural experiences. Admire the majestic Osorno Volcano, wander through the bustling Angelmó Market, or hike in Alerce Andino National Park—there’s no shortage of memorable experiences in this captivating city. With its proximity to other spectacular sites like Llanquihue Lake and Chiloé Island, Puerto Montt is an excellent base for exploring the wonders of Chilean Patagonia. Renting a car in Chile will ensure you don’t miss out on these incredible destinations.
