City of Chillán: The Best of its Tourist Attractions

Chile Travel and News | By Raul Silva M.

The Catholic Cathedral, one of the city´s landmarks

Chillán, a city rich in culture and history, lies 413 kilometers south of Santiago, the Chilean capital, in the picturesque Ñuble Region. Known as the birthplace of Bernardo O’Higgins, the father of the Chilean nation, Chillán has played a pivotal role in the country's past.

With an estimated population of 180,000 in 2024, Chillán was almost entirely rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1939. Today, it combines modern life with deep-rooted traditions, offering visitors an engaging cultural and historical journey.

The city proudly honors its most famous native, world-renowned pianist Claudio Arrau. Art and history lovers can visit Escuela México to admire its striking murals, or explore the San Francisco Museum, which preserves the region’s artistic and historical legacy.

Chillán is also a gateway to remarkable natural attractions. Just a short drive away, Termas de Chillán invites visitors to relax in its hot springs, enjoy world-class skiing, and take part in year-round outdoor adventures—ideal for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Blending heritage, art, and scenic beauty, Chillán shines as a standout destination in central-southern Chile. 

• Climate in Chillán

Chillán features a Mediterranean climate (Köppen classification Csb), characterized by hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. During the summer months (December to February), average maximum temperatures range between 27°C and 30°C (81°F to 86°F), with minimal rainfall, creating perfect conditions for hiking, cycling, and visiting the city’s historic and natural landmarks. In contrast, winters (June to August) are much cooler, with average minimum temperatures often dropping below 4°C (39°F), and precipitation concentrated in these months, sometimes exceeding 150 mm (5.9 in) per month. This seasonal shift draws tourists to the nearby Termas de Chillán, located in the Andes approximately 80 km east of the city, which offer geothermal hot springs and a popular ski resort known for its long slopes and scenic Andean setting.

• How to get to Chillán 

Getting to Chillán, the capital of the Ñuble region, is easy by road or rail. From Santiago, you can travel by bus or train, both offering a comfortable and scenic journey through Chile’s agricultural heartland.

Fast Train to Chillan

Since April 2024, the fastest and most modern train in South America has been operating to Chillán. This 400 km long-distance rail service departs daily from Estación Central in Santiago, offering a fast and convenient travel option.

Tourist Attractions in Chillán:

• The Cathedral

One of the city's most iconic architectural landmarks, the Catholic Cathedral was built after the devastating 1939 earthquake. It stands out for its modern design and striking bell tower. The Monumental Cross, separate from the Cathedral, was erected in memory of the earthquake’s victims and also serves as the bell tower for this impressive temple.

Address: 505 Arauco Street

• Plaza de Armas

Chillán’s main square, commonly known as Plaza de Armas and also referred to as Plaza de la Independencia, is the civic and social heart of the city. It occupies the site of Chillán’s fourth and final foundation, established after the devastating earthquake of 1835.

This historic gathering place is surrounded by key landmarks, including the monument to national hero Bernardo O’Higgins, ornamental sculptures, the modern Cathedral of Chillán, the Regional Government building, municipal offices, the Civic Center, banks, and several hotels. 

• Chillán Market

Address: Maipón Street, between 5 de Abril and Isabel Riquelme
A must-visit for an authentic local experience, Chillán Market—also known as the Municipal Market—is famous for its lively atmosphere and wide variety of goods. Here, you’ll find fresh produce, artisanal crafts, and traditional Chilean foods, including the renowned Longanizas de Chillán, a flavorful, spiced pork sausage that is a regional specialty.

• Feria de Artesanías 

Located right in front of the market, the lively fair features thousands of handmade products from the Chilean countryside. Whether you're looking for wickerwork, woodcrafts, leather goods, ceramics, or cozy handmade ponchos, it's the perfect place to find a unique souvenir from Chillán.

• Parque Monumental Bernardo O'Higgins

Monument to Bernardo O'Higgins, Father of the Nation
Image: prensa.presidencia.cl

Located in the municipality of Chillán Viejo, this park is a tribute to Bernardo O'Higgins, the founding father of Chile, and offers panoramic views of the city. It is an ideal place to explore Chilean history, take a walk, and enjoy nature. The park was established in 2015 on the site of the mansion where O'Higgins was born and raised. The original house was demolished in 1930.

Inside the park, you'll find several points of interest:

• An equestrian statue of Bernardo O'Higgins
• A stone mural depicting key moments of his life
• The mausoleum of his mother and sister
• A cultural center

• Museo Interactivo Claudio Arrau

Address: 558 Claudio Arrau St. 

This cultural space is dedicated to the life and work of renowned pianist Claudio Arrau León, a native of this city and considered one of the most important pianists of the 20th century.

The museum honors Arrau's legacy by preserving and showcasing his most treasured belongings and contributions to the arts. Its collection includes sheet music, a silent piano, books, clothing, and various personal items related to the pianist.

The museum also functions as a cultural center for the province and the wider region, offering guided tours, educational programs, and multilingual accessibility services.

• Museo San Francisco

Address: 265 Sargento Aldea Street, Chillán, Chile
Telephone: 56 42 2211634

The San Francisco Museum in Chillán houses a remarkable collection of ancient and valuable artifacts reflecting the history of the Church and the San Alfonso Convent and School, established in 1585. 

Notable items include a book printed in Venice in 1495 and a Tanagra, a Greek terracotta figurine dating back to pre-Christian times. The museum also features 18th-century religious objects and liturgical books, colonial-era furniture, an extensive array of carved wooden images, reliquaries, indigenous artifacts, and Italian Mannerist paintings. Additionally, it preserves letters from Bernardo O’Higgins, who was educated by the Franciscan Fathers during his childhood.

 

• Murales de la Escuela México

Address: 250 Libertador Bernardo O'Higgins Ave. 

The murals at the Mexico School in Chillán are a significant artistic and historical landmark in Chile.

Painted by renowned Mexican artists David Alfaro Siqueiros and Xavier Guerrero, they were created in 1940 as a gesture of solidarity following the 1939 Chillán Earthquake, which caused massive destruction in the region.

As part of this solidarity, the Mexican government donated the school building to Chile. The Mexico School was officially inaugurated on March 25, 1942. The murals are now recognized as a National Monument of Chile, classified under the Historic Monument category.

• Museo Marta Colvin

Address: 720 Andrés Bello Ave., University of Bío-Bío, Chillán, Chile

Located on the university’s Fernando May Campus, this museum honors Marta Colvin (1907–1995), a renowned Chilean sculptor known for her abstract works inspired by nature and indigenous mythology. 

The site includes her former residence and a sculpture park, offering a deep look into her creative world. Opened in 2011 on land donated by her family, the museum displays original sculptures, sketches, tools, and her final unfinished piece. Colvin’s legacy extends beyond Chile, with works exhibited internationally and a National Art Prize awarded in 1970..

• Reserva Nacional Ñuble

Located between the municipalities of Pinto (Ñuble Region) and Antuco (Biobío Region), Ñuble National Reserve is one of Chile’s most biodiverse protected areas. It lies approximately 79 kilometers east of the city of Chillán, depending on the route you take.

Established in 1978, the reserve spans over 75,000 hectares and is primarily dedicated to the protection of the huemul (Hippocamelus bisulcus), a native deer species in danger of extinction, found in both Chile and Argentina. The area also shelters diverse wildlife, including pumas, vizcachas, Andean condors, Magellanic woodpeckers (often referred to as black woodpeckers), and black-necked swans. The vegetation includes a variety of native species such as dwarf radal (Lomatia hirsuta), Chilean hazel (Gevuina avellana), coigüe (Nothofagus dombeyi), lleuque (Prumnopitys andina), and mountain cypress (Austrocedrus chilensis).

The reserve is open to visitors from November to April and offers hiking trails, picnic and camping areas, panoramic viewpoints, and access to natural thermal waters. Horseback riding may be available through local operators, but is not officially listed as a regular service by CONAF. Access to the reserve is somewhat difficult, especially in its final stretch, and a 4WD vehicle is strongly recommended. To reach the reserve, take Route 5 south to Chillán, then continue east on Route N-55 toward San Fabián de Alico. From there, follow local signage to the El Trumao sector, where the main entrance and ranger station are located.

Please note that there are no supply services within the reserve. However, basic provisions can be found in the nearby towns of Recinto and Los Lleuques, approximately 22 kilometers from the entrance. 

Las Trancas Valley

Las Trancas Valley is a distinctive tourist destination located 71 kilometers southeast of Chillán and 476 kilometers south of Santiago. Stretching for about 6 km along Route N-55, the valley features a wide range of lodging, dining, and outdoor recreation options.

Nestled in the Andes Mountains, Las Trancas is celebrated for its stunning natural setting, with dense native forests, rivers, and scenic landscapes. Average temperatures range from 20°C in summer to 3°C in winter, making it ideal for year-round tourism.

Top attractions and activities in Las Trancas Valley include:

• Nevados de Chillán: A ski resort boasting the longest ski run in South America. It offers winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, climbing, snowmobile rides, and snowshoeing.

• Hiking Trails: Explore routes that cross volcanic vents, waterfalls, ancient forests, and the Laguna del Huemul Biosphere Reserve.

• Termas de Chillán: A renowned thermal complex located on the slopes of the Chillán volcano, considered one of the best in Chile.

Nevados de Chillán

This mountain resort is one of South America's top spots for winter sports and mountain adventures. Situated about 80 kilometers east of Chillán, it is known for its dramatic volcanic scenery and active terrain.

Termas de Chillán

Located 82 kilometers from Chillán, this thermal complex features pools with mineral-rich waters reaching temperatures of 38°C, containing elements like sulfur and iron. It also includes a ski resort with various slopes. The combination of skiing, hot springs, and mountain activities makes it a renowned destination both nationally and internationally.

Services:

• Accommodations: From luxury hotels to cozy cabins and eco-lodges.
• Dining: Restaurants and cafés serving both local and international cuisine.
• Wellness: Natural hot springs and spa services for relaxation after a day in the mountains.

Winter Activities:

• Skiing and Snowboarding: Over 35 slopes for all levels, including the 13-kilometer Las Tres Marías run — one of the longest in South America.
• Off-piste skiing: For those seeking adrenaline-filled backcountry experiences.
• Snow park: Designed for freestyle tricks and snow acrobatics.

Summer Activities:

• Hiking: Trails through volcanic landscapes, forests, and panoramic viewpoints.
• Mountain Biking: Specialized trails for various skill levels.
• Horseback Riding: Guided excursions into the mountains.
• Hot Springs: A year-round favorite for visitors.

Natural Environment and Sustainability

The resort is surrounded by awe-inspiring natural beauty. Active volcanoes like Nevados de Chillán and Chillán Viejo dominate the landscape, while native forests and striking rock formations enhance the scenery. The area is also home to a variety of Andean wildlife.

Nevados de Chillán promotes sustainable tourism, working closely with the local community and adopting eco-friendly practices.