Puerto Varas Plaza de Armas is a pleasant square with benches and patches of grass. Quaint shops and cafés surround the heart of the town. The area, which is pedestrianized, is home to a city monument. Sit on a section of grass with a book or enjoy a picnic with your family in this tranquil open space.
See the statue at the convergence of paths in the centre of the park. The white monument has a pole that rises to the top of the surrounding trees. The structure, which was presented by the town’s rotary club in 1958, celebrates its centenary year.
Walk through the pleasant park and appreciate the colourful floral displays. Rest on the lawn in the shade of a tree. The attractive structure in the centre of the park that resembles a bandstand hosts musical activities and events and the town’s famous Kuchen Day, which is a German cake competition.
Peruse the artisanal market opposite the plaza. Find handcrafted wooden souvenirs and clothes in the charming bazaar. As an interesting contrast, visit the casino with slot machines, bingo and table games.
During the Christmas season, head to the Tannenbaum Festival held annually in the square. The plaza fills with Christmas trees and decorations to generate a festive mood.
Dating back to the 1800s, the square plays an important part in the town’s history. Its main church was located on one side of the plaza before it burned down in 1911.
The plaza, which is open at all times, is free to enter. See it as part of the Heritage Circuit, which involves the most historic and significant parts of the town.
Find the Puerto Varas Plaza de Armas in the centre of the town, one block west of the Lake Llanquihue. Take a bus to Del Salvador stop and walk one block east to find the square.
