La Serena is one of the loveliest and liveliest cities in Chile’s northern region. Its attractions include excellent hotel and dining options, beaches, historic tours and proximity to the Elqui and Limari valleys.

Though it is often linked to the nearby city of Coquimbo, La Serena’s architecture sets it apart. The city’s picturesque, colonial-style old quarter makes for an interesting visit, with buildings that offer plenty of terrific photo opportunities. Visit its Archaeological museum and the churches and bell towers that makes this city so distinctive, including the Cathedral, the San Agustin Convent, the Church of San Francisco (a national monument dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries), and the Church of Santo Domingo (18th century). You can wind up your tour with a visit to the Parque Japones, the largest Japanese park in South America.

There’s not better way to discover the authentic culture and cuisine of a city than at its markets. Ask anyone in La Serena, and they’ll point you to La Recova, where you’ll find a host of products made with the area’s typical fruit, the papaya, including juice, liquor, syrup and candy. You can also buy papaya dried with sugar or the fruit in its natural form.

The beaches of La Serena are truly stupendous, with Penuelas, El Faro, Mansa and Cuatro Esquinas offering excellent water sports. At night, Avenida del Mar becomes an epicenter of social interaction, with a variety of pubs, restaurants, bars and night clubs.

How to get there

By Air. There are daily flights from Santiago to La Florida Airport in La Serena (1 hour).

By Bus. From Santiago, buses leave from:

• Terminal Los Heroes: Located at the corner of Tucapel Jimenez and Alameda near the Los Heroes Metro Station. Several companies provide service to northern Chile. Telephone: (56-2) 4200099

• Terminal San Borja (formerly Terminal Norte): Located at the corner of San Borja and the Alameda, near Estacion Central. This terminal provides service to northern Chile and destinations within the Metropolitan Region. Telephone: (56-2) 7760645

Buses depart Coquimbo and La Serena for Ovalle, Monte Patria, Pisco Elqui and Vicuna.

By Car. From Santiago, take Route 5 north to Coquimbo (458 km) and La Serena (470 km).

Activities and Attractions

The best time to come to La Serena is during the summer. The weather is exquisite and there are all sorts of crafts fairs, book fairs, folk fairs and summer celebrations.

Japanese park, also known as Jardin del Corazon park, offers a calm, meditative experience. Its 26,000 square meters include fountains with colorful fish, babbling brooks, and beautiful plants and trees. A truly transformative experience.

La Serena is home to lodging options for all tastes and price ranges. You can choose from five-star hotels, cabin areas (some very modern), camping areas, and house and apartment rentals. In all cases, the best option is to make reservations in advance, especially during the summer and on holidays.

If you like the area but your main priority is finding peace, head south to the resort towns of Totoralillo, Las Tacas and Guanaqueros. If you’re looking for quality surfing, don’t miss Punta Teatinos, 10 km north of La Serena.