Join millions of curious travelers.

Get early access to exclusive partner discounts, tips & user itineraries.

We promise not to spam you!
  • How It Works
  • Get Inspired
  • Pricing
  • Blog
  • Login
Get InspiredBlogTerms and ConditionsPrivacy Policy
© 2026 TravelPal, Inc.

Navigation

  • Blog
  • Destinations
  • Contact

Follow us

Terms & ConditionsPrivacy Policy
© 2026, TravelPal, Inc. All rights reserved.
0/200
Get InspiredSouth AmericaChileCoquimbo RegionLa Serena

La Serena

Coquimbo Region, Chile
City·Historic, Coastal, Vibrant
La Serena
Photo by Marion Torres from Google Places
La Serena
Photo by Igor.kudryavtsev from Google Places
La Serena
Photo by R T from Google Places
La Serena
Photo by Eliane Campos from Google Places
La Serena
Photo by Que So from Google Places
La Serena
Photo by Marion Torres from Google Places
La Serena
Photo by Igor.kudryavtsev from Google Places
La Serena
Photo by R T from Google Places
La Serena
Photo by Eliane Campos from Google Places
La Serena
Photo by Que So from Google Places

La Serena, the capital of the Coquimbo Region, is Chile's second oldest city, founded in 1544. It is a popular tourist destination, especially in summer, when visitors flock to its beautiful beaches. The city is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and serves as a cultural hub with the University of La Serena and a significant Catholic Archdiocese. With its blend of historical charm and coastal beauty, La Serena offers a unique experience for travelers.

La Serena, the capital of the Coquimbo Region, is Chile's second oldest city, founded in 1544. It is a popular tourist destination, especially in summer, when visitors flock to its beautiful beaches. The city is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and serves as a cultural hub with the University of La Serena and a significant Catholic Archdiocese. With its blend of historical charm and coastal beauty, La Serena offers a unique experience for travelers.

You might want to ask

Highlights

  • Beautiful beaches popular in summer.

  • Rich colonial architecture.

  • Home to the University of La Serena.

  • Important Catholic Archdiocese in Chile.

Before you go: La Serena essentials

  • Close access to beautiful beaches, ideal for sunbathing and water sports.

  • Rich colonial history with well-preserved architecture.

  • Growing tourist destination, especially popular among Chileans and Argentines.

Getting Around

La Serena has a reliable public transportation system including buses and taxis.

Local Cuisine

Try the local seafood dishes, which are a specialty in this coastal city.

Best For

Beach lovers and history enthusiasts.

Currency

CLP $

Average Cost

$50-$100 p/day

Languages Spoken

Spanish, English

Safety

The city is generally safe, but it's advisable to stay alert in crowded tourist areas.

Weather

The best time to visit is during the summer months when the beaches are most enjoyable.

Occasion Tags

Tourists, Beach Vacation, Cultural Exploration

Best time to visit La Serena

December-February

Spring

Spring is mild and pleasant, perfect for exploring the city's historical sites.

Summer

Summer is peak tourist season, ideal for beach activities but expect crowds.

Fall

Fall offers a quieter experience with comfortable temperatures for sightseeing.

Best Season

Winter

Winter is cooler and less crowded, a good time for cultural exploration.

Join millions of curious travelers.

Get early access to exclusive partner discounts, tips & user itineraries.

We promise not to spam you!

Location

La Serena, Coquimbo Region, Chile
Open in Maps

Things to do in La Serena

Valley of Charm: Slopes, Petroglyphs and Shamanic Rituals
From $295

Valley of Charm: Slopes, Petroglyphs and Shamanic Rituals

5.0(1)
Duration: 7h 30min
La Serena
Elqui Valley Tour: History and Flavors
From $40

Elqui Valley Tour: History and Flavors

4.9(146)
Duration: 7h
La Serena
Elqui Valley Boutique Stargazing Experience with Astrophotography
From $99

Elqui Valley Boutique Stargazing Experience with Astrophotography

Duration: 5h
La Serena
Astronomy and Astrophotography Tour
From $44

Astronomy and Astrophotography Tour

4.8(12)
Duration: 5h
La Serena
Elqui Valley Tour with Pisco Tasting and Lunch
From $47

Elqui Valley Tour with Pisco Tasting and Lunch

Duration: 7h
La Serena
Activity in Fray Jorge National Park
From $80

Activity in Fray Jorge National Park

5.0(3)
Duration: 7h
La Serena
Hiking Ladies Island/Sailing 3 Islands Humboldt Penguin Reserve
From $220

Hiking Ladies Island/Sailing 3 Islands Humboldt Penguin Reserve

4.2(14)
Duration: 10h
La Serena
La Serena and Coquimbo Private City Tour Including Lunch, Shore Excursion
From $355

La Serena and Coquimbo Private City Tour Including Lunch, Shore Excursion

4.8(5)
Duration: 6h 30min
La Serena
Explore on Viator

Natural & historic sites near La Serena

Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Bosque Fray Jorge National Park

Protected Area · Serene, Ancient, Otherworldly