Castro

Castro is a city on Chiloé Island in Chile's Lake District. Colorful wooden stilt houses line the waterfront. On Plaza de Armas, the yellow, early-20th-century San Francisco Church has 2 steeples and a distinctive wooden interior. Nearby, woven baskets are sold at the craft fair. The Museum of Modern Art Chiloé displays works by Chilean artists. To the west, Chiloé National Park is home to sea lions.
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Top places to visit

4.6
(6743)
4.5
(1274)
Mentioned on 
Catholic church
Sights & Landmarks
Architectural Buildings
Iglesia de San Francisco in Castro is a charming Catholic church constructed in 1912, showcasing stunning Neo-Gothic architecture crafted from indigenous wood.
Most beautiful church I had ever seen. All handcrafted in the most beautiful woods that took my breath away.
Margarita B — Google review
Impressive church in the center of Castro. Very beautiful and well maintained. Beautiful woodwork, must visit!
Fabian S — Google review
Nice blend of German wood architecture example in South Chile
Alex Y — Google review
Large and beautiful wooden church. Amazing interior and vaulted, wooden ceilings!
Michael C — Google review
A beautifully crafted church that blends intricate woodworking with designs that still look modern with windows perfectly positioned that let in lots of natural sunlight that give it a beautifully warm feeling. Located near the central plaza, it’s a centerpiece for the town. Definitely worth making a stop if you’re in the area or visiting from nearby.
Victor W — Google review
Truly amazing church. Impressive from outside, design and artwork inside is amazing. Don't miss it.
I P — Google review
Nice church, unfortunately it was closed on Sunday. Would be nice if they make an effort to actually allow people to see it.
Petr V — Google review
This church was built of wood only. It is a special church not found in any other country. The interior looks even more amazing.
Yeongmun K — Google review
4.5
(356)
4.3
(30)
Mentioned on 
Observation deck
Nestled along the picturesque coast of Chiloe, particularly in Castro, the Palafitos de Pedro Montt are a stunning architectural marvel that captures the essence of this enchanting island. Originally constructed by fishermen seeking proximity to their catch, these charming wooden houses perched on stilts have withstood the test of time. Today, many have transformed into vibrant shops, cozy hotels, and delightful restaurants that draw visitors from around the globe.
Absolutely beautiful spot to look at the beautifully colored houses over the water which have been restored and kept in an extremely respectable position while learning about the rich history for the reason of these over water dwellings.
Victor W — Google review
Gorgeous
Gary O — Google review
Beautiful.
Sebastián A — Google review
Hemoso!
Mirta C — Google review
Amazing
Santiago S — Google review
(Translated by Google) For a historical and cultural heritage site on the island, they're incredibly dirty and neglected. The swamp where they live is filled with filth and garbage. The plaza is covered in graffiti. But the worst part is seeing them flush their poop from their toilets directly into the ground/sea (in case you want to know which house, looking at them head-on: the first one on the left, pink/salmon). (Original) Para ser patrimonio histórico y cultural de la isla, están muy sucios y descuidados. El pantano donde se asientan esta lleno de mugre, basura. La plaza con los carteles con graffitis. Pero lo peor de todo es ver como tiran la caca de sus inodoros directamente al suelo/mar (por si quieren saber que casa, viéndolos de frente: la primera a la izquierda, color rosa/salmón).
Eugenio G — Google review
(Translated by Google) Good tourist place and quiet, they have cabins everywhere for people who go and want to know (Original) Buen lugar turístico y tranquilos, tienen cabaña donde sea para la gente que va y quieren saber
Danny T — Google review
(Translated by Google) Nice houses. We were lucky to arrive just after the rain! 🌈 (Original) Leuk de huisjes. Wij hadden geluk dat we net na de regen aankwamen! 🌈
K. V — Google review
Pedro Montt 1141, Castro, Los Lagos, ChileTips and more reviews for Palafitos de Pedro Montt
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Town square
Plaza de Armas de Castro is a vibrant square featuring the stunning yellow Iglesia San Francisco, one of Chiloe Island's 16 UNESCO world heritage churches. In the evenings, the plaza transforms into a lively hub with music, local vendors selling clothes and jewelry, and an array of delicious food options. It's a charming spot where visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and enjoy the bustling atmosphere.

4Nercón

Mentioned on 
Nestled just a short distance from Castro, Nercón is a charming village that showcases the beauty of traditional wooden architecture. The highlight here is its stunning church, crafted entirely from local timber sourced from cypress and larch trees. This quaint settlement offers visitors not only picturesque views but also a delightful craft beer house named Pioneras, where you can savor an impressive selection of brews alongside tasty bites.
Castro, Los Lagos, ChileTips and more reviews for Nercón
4.7
(263)
Mentioned on 
Hostel
Nestled in the heart of Chiloe, Hostal Torre de Babel is a charming guesthouse that offers a delightful blend of comfort and convenience. With cozy rooms featuring shared bathrooms, this hostal provides an inviting atmosphere perfect for travelers seeking an economical stay. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi while making use of the well-equipped communal kitchen and spacious lounge area complete with a fireplace.
I recently spent a few days at Hostal Torre de Babel, and it was an absolutely wonderful experience. The location is perfect, offering easy access to everything you need. The hostel itself is impeccably clean, comfortable, and well-equipped with all the essentials. Besides, the owner of the hostal was really kind, and incredibly welcoming, they went above and beyond to ensure I felt at home. I thoroughly enjoyed my time there and couldn't have asked for a better experience. Highly recommended! 😊
Ben S — Google review
Definitely a recommendation! Best host so far after 7 weeks of traveling, really cares about guests and good vibes in the hostel.
Thomas W — Google review
Great place, beds are comfy, fire is well maintained, and Roberto is an excellent host. Thanks!
Arnaud P — Google review
Comfortable and in great company. Roberto was a great host. I would recommend to anyone to stay here whilst you are in Castro!!
F H — Google review
The place is very nice and clean. The hosts are friendly and will help you with everything you need. They offer a secure parking place which needs to be reserved before arriving. For me personally it was i bit too cold and there was no heater in the room. The room we stayed smelled a little musty, I guess this is related to the cold air.
Lisa P — Google review
Had a great stay here, and felt like my home for the week. Roberto was an exceptional host and went out of his way to make sure I had a comfortable stay and made the most out of my time in Chiloe. Will definitely come back next time I'm in Chiloe.
Eddie K — Google review
My home when visiting the beautiful island of Chiloe! If I could give Roberto and his hostal 6 stars, I would! This is a well-maintained, clean and homey hostal. The owner is kind, friendly and caring. When I didn’t feel very well, he took good care of me. I felt very much at home. The bed was of great quality, so I slept like a baby! The bathroom has a nice bath and shower with good pressure and warm water. The kitchen was super well-equipped, so you can prepare your own meals. I truly loved staying at this place and I hope that I can come back! Muchas gracias, Roberto! 🙏
Toi-Ting L — Google review
Amazing stay. Comfortable bed, large bathrooms, homey atmosphere, and great kitchen with lots of cooking supplies. The staff is super nice. Paolo in participar speaks English and gave me all sorts of recommendations for the island. He also went out of his way to help me when I needed it.
Joshua Y — Google review
O'Higgins 965, 5700000 Castro, Los Lagos, Chile+56 9 8311 2156Tips and more reviews for Hostal Torre de Babel

Top places to eat

4.4
(867)
4.6
(1218)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Italian restaurant
The dining experience at Pomodoro, an Italian restaurant, was delightful. The cuisine was flavorful and the customer service was exceptional. Although there were minor hiccups with the order, the server promptly clarified any confusion to prevent any issues. This establishment is renowned for its popularity, evident from the bustling atmosphere. The delectable Italian fare consisted of a delectable mushroom sauce that left a strong impression. However, the tiramisu did not meet expectations.
Food was delicious. Service was also great. There was some confusion with our order but the waitress came to confirm what we asked for to avoid any issues. This restaurant seems to be really well known as it was very busy.
Manisha V — Google review
Delicious food and friendly service. We shared a salad, fish entree, and shrimp pasta. I also enjoyed the tasty pico sour.
Mary D — Google review
We went for a drink, we orderd fresh natural juice, one mango and one framboza. We drunk just a half glass cause we where thirsty. But it was definitely canned juice, to sweet. For 3500 each glass canned juice , never again. We don't know about the food, but for us it's over
Ben H — Google review
Very tasty fresh Italian food. I had the funghi sauce, which was amazing. Didn't like the tiramisu much though. Pisco sour was also of very good quality!
Carolien S — Google review
Delicious! Would recommend the pasta. Both the gnocchi and Tortellini were excellent. Super friendly service.
Phil H — Google review
Had delicious gnocchi with pesto sauce and some desserts. Was a good find for lunch in Chiloe!
Dhaval N — Google review
Excellent restaurant !! My friend and I had the best time, the food and the service was great !!
Chen K — Google review
Pizza was good but not amazing. Very friendly staff and nice setting.
Bob G — Google review
Sotomayor 520, 5700502 Castro, Los Lagos, Chile+56 9 8338 2483Tips and more reviews for Pomodoro
4.6
(810)
4.6
(874)
expensive
Restaurant
Nestled at kilometer 3.6 on the scenic route to Rilan, Restaurant Rucalaf—meaning "happy hour" in Mapudungun—offers a delightful dining experience with stunning views of the Putemun wetland. Managed by Claudio Monje, this charming eatery features a limited number of tables, ensuring an intimate atmosphere that fills up quickly, so reservations are highly recommended.
We got it recommended by our host and it’s been definitely worth it. Got there at around 6pm and found a table without reservation…got pretty crowded at around seven, so I guess we’ve been lucky. Food variety was plenty and lots of fresh seafood dishes. We’ve been greeted friendly and even though my Spanish is near to nothing the waitress tried her best to explain the dishes and give recommendations. Everything we had from starter to dessert was delicious and super nice organized on the plates. The whole atmosphere was welcoming and warm. I would definitely recommend it to everyone.
Sylvia H — Google review
No doubt this is one of the best restaurants on the island. Food has an amazing Chiloé fusion, with very distinctive features. There's cerveza artesanal to try, I strongly recommend it. Although the food is awesome, this year there was a lot of dishes missing on the menu and it was not as good as the year before. I hope it was just a one time thing.
Jaime N — Google review
Very cool place with incredible food cooked with local ingredients. We had the corvina and it was perfectly done. Service was amazing and friendly!
Murray S — Google review
Incredible delicious food quality and creations of local ingredients, will try to come back again
Maria F — Google review
Very good I’m too lazy to do a Spanish review as well but we got the seafood meal I forgot what it was on the menu. It was a traditional Chilean meal and it was very good. It even had octopus tentacles which was my first time trying it was actually surprisingly tasty lol. Overall really skibidi and I recommend coming here because it’s so good and they have vegetarian options and really good natural juice. Also they even have crayons for coloring. Don’t mind the drawing I made of gigachad 💀
TomMustBe12 R — Google review
I don’t know why this review keeps disappearing. Service: What I really don’t like is when people are lying. My boyfriend made a reservation more than one month before Valentine’s. When we arrived they gave us one of worst tables: Directly in front of the bar, loud area, in the middle of everyone. The girl (she has red-ginger girl and something like long earring on her nose) who is working there said that the table next to the window was reserved by someone else before my boyfriend made a reservation, which was not true. The couple which came long after us, didn’t reserve the table after my boyfriend. That couple ordered only one meal to share and left the restaurant. My boyfriend and I had 2 of entrees, 2 main dishes, few drinks and dessert. We complained about the table also to the other girl (with brown hair), she said that she will check and try to arrange something, but later she didn’t give us any response and completely ignored the situation. Anyway, isn’t it common sense that if someone calls more than a month before to make a reservation, that you ensure this person has a good table? Transportation to the restaurant: If you don’t have a car or if you are going to drink alcohol, you have to take a taxi/uber, which is not cheap and might be hard to get. Ambient: A lot of noise. Certainly not adapted for Valentine’s Day. I don’t understand why, at least for Valentine’s Day, they didn’t move the blender in the kitchen or somewhere else, but they were mixing drinks directly next to table where people are eating. I almost couldn’t hear any music because of that and sometimes it would be hard to talk to my partner. I liked the music but in the same time, they were putting music like “Someone like you” by Adele, which I love but is absurd to put sad love songs for Valentine’s. The view of the field is beautiful. For decoration they put a flower on each table. Menu: They have whole menu written directly next to the entrance, but near the table where other people are eating. You must read it there or take a photo, because they don’t have any printed or online menu. It is probably a little bit awkward for the couple which seats next to the menu, and have people standing and reading it. I suggest to the restaurant to create online menu, which can be accessed by QR code. Food: Pricey, good looking, but no special taste. We had: 1. Oysters (9000 clp): It seemed to be fresh, but each oyster was small. It was my favourite food that evening. 2. Sea urchin (13000 clp): Normally, sea urchin has very intense taste. In case of this restaurant, I couldn’t feel any taste. The problem was that ceviche was too strong to put sea urchin in it. Ceviche liquid was great, but we paid to taste sea urchin which we couldn’t. Maybe they should change the way of preparation? Also, in the menu it was written “erizos en su caldo” - it was not written it would come as an actual ceviche. 3. Salmon ravioli (15500 clp): Ok taste, nothing special. 4. Wild boar (18000 clp): Meat was dry. Too less sauce. 5. Cheesecake: Doesn’t taste like a cheesecake. Didn’t really have any taste. Nice design. Drink: Wine was good.
An — Google review
Prices are on the upper range at this great restaurant. The ambient is well decorated and the view is amazing from every table the dishes that change every other day are well prepared and very tasty. We had gnocchi and octopus, which were both very nice and prepared to perfection, the desert, a rosemary, crème brûlée, was also excellent, and the staff is very kind.
Gary O — Google review
At $15 this was the most expensive ceviche I've ever had in South America, so i thought maybe it will be big or very good but no. Starter size and the fish wasn't very high quality. Should be maybe $8 even at this kind of place. But why sell it for 8 if you can sell for 15 right? No wifi, just for themselves.
Petr V — Google review
Putemun s/n, Castro, Los Lagos, Chile+56 9 5610 0782Tips and more reviews for Restaurant Rucalaf
4.6
(766)
4.5
(460)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Restaurant
Restaurant Travesía has been occupying a typical house in Castro since 2014, located near the sea and just a couple of blocks from the Plaza de Armas. The restaurant is known for serving traditional Chilote cuisine with a touch of its own flavor, following the island's culinary tradition. Lorna Munoz Arias, who showcased her culinary skills at ExpoMilan in 2015, is behind the heritage cuisine offered here.
A wonderful place - homely, full of books, friendly staff and delicious food! We went for lunch and I enjoyed what I can safely say was the best ceviche I've ever had!
Chris B — Google review
The place came recommended by many and completely lived up to its fame. They have a small menu but great options. We had some fresh oysters and the Chanchito Ahumado, which was such a great mix of flavors. It was served so beautifully that it felt like a crime to eat it. The fresh murta berries were a great addition. We truly enjoyed the meal. The place has a great, cozy vibe and warm atmosphere and the folks are friendly!
Chica N — Google review
This restaurant remains an exceptional destination for savoring the exquisite flavors of Chilota cuisine on Chiloé Island. Its culinary offerings continue to delight with a rich tapestry of traditional dishes that capture the essence of the region's unique gastronomic heritage.
Gerardo F — Google review
This restaurant feels like home with an attention to detail thats unmatched. The dishes were amazing. We had the meluza with centoya, curanto and seafood soup. The drinks were equally as delicious and all reasonable priced. This is the kind of food from the region one would expect from Chiloe. A delight!
Solange A — Google review
We had an amazing dinner here! The atmosphere and decor is fun and cute - very homey and comfortable. The food was incredible! One of the best meals we’ve had in Chile. The blended pisco sours were our favourite we’ve had so far. The chef and server were so sweet. 10/10 recommend - a must go in Castro.
Katie C — Google review
Please go here! The food and service were amazing - the best meal we have had in Chile! An excellent blend of local flavors. They were also patient with us as non-Spanish speakers. The pisco sour was excellent, and I can’t say enough about the food- the flavors and the presentation were top notch. It was also cozy and comfortable inside. Just go here if you are in Castro (or even if you are not - go to Castro)!
Tristy V — Google review
Incredible restaurant. We loved everything about it: the exterior with all the plants and flowers, the charming decoration inside and outside, great service and amazing food. Only positive things to say about this place
Merel V — Google review
It feels like home. everything is just perfect. freshest oysters, fantastically tender octopus. a glass of wine to help you and have a good time in this magical place
Kay M — Google review
4.3
(234)
4.5
(437)
Permanently Closed
affordable
Restaurant
Restaurant Nueva Galicia offers a delightful atmosphere and delectable seafood dishes. The portion sizes are generous, so be prepared for a satisfying meal. Despite the Spanish-speaking staff, the English menu makes ordering easy. This hidden gem boasts passionate chefs who create flavorful dishes at reasonable prices, making it a must-visit in town. The impeccable service and traditional dish, Curanto, make this restaurant highly recommended for anyone looking to enjoy great food in a pleasant setting.
Very nice atmosphere and delicious food. Most of the courses contain seafood. We tried Curanto for the first time and it was really great (be careful, the portion is really big). Waitress speaks only spanish but it was not aproblem as the menu is in English.
Martin H — Google review
A hidden champion small, boutiquish restaurant with a chef and crew who are real fans of good ingredients and great compositions of flavors and textures at VERY reasonable prices. Even with the most simplest dishes. A must if you are in town!
Stefan B — Google review
Very nice restaurant, food was great and the service was impeccable. Curanto is a must have if you want to try a traditional dish. I would definitely recommend the place.
Jonathan R — Google review
We could have caught this restaurant at a bad time. The front of house was really understaffed with one waitress who was trying to look after a full restaurant. The food was hit and miss the seafood (octopus and mussels) were good, the steak was average.
Jack S — Google review
The food was really great and the staff very friendly. The waitress was so sweet to our son and showed him boats outside and vidoes from her phone to keep him happy and entertained.
Kathryn N — Google review
Nice setting, food was well done with a particular take on traditional dishes. Service was great and friendly.
David D — Google review
Great food, lovely atmosphere and very friendly staff. I highly recommend going here for there seafood and cocktails!
Claudio G — Google review
Todo muy rico! Great atmosphere, great food and a reasonable price. Highly recommended :)
Paulina B — Google review
4.5
(867)
4.4
(419)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Restaurant
Bar & grill
La Cevichería Chiloé is a restaurant located in Castro, Isla de Chiloe, Chile. It offers a delightful variety of Peruvian, Latin, and Chilean cuisine as well as vegetarian and gluten-free options. Customers praise the attentive staff, original presentation of dishes, and the ceviches which are considered the best in the area. The restaurant's unique setting resembling a boat adds to its charm.
This place is fabulous! Great service, decent prices and fantastic dishes. The sushi is really good, so good that we went back twice in the few days we were in the area. The seefood pizza was also very good. Everything we ate was fantastic. Definitely a favorite.
Ana S — Google review
Lovely place, acceptable prices (around 8k-9k CLP) for each ceviche, nice view from the second stock on the Castro bay. The only negative point was the waitress, we asked to sit in another play and she told us "I'm gonna ask and be right back" and she never came. I asked the bill at the same waitress and I had to go downstairs to ask directly for it after 15 minutes waiting time. Anyhow I would like to go there again for a good ceviche.
Andrea — Google review
Had 2 vegan dishes... both great but the acevichado roll was the best ive ever had
Fernyramirez21 — Google review
We stumbled upon this place and it blew our expectations out of the water. The setting is very unique; the place looks like a boat from the water. Very nice atmosphere for casual dining. Drinks were very good, and the staff really made this place 5 star. We had our 8 month old baby with us, and they made us feel very very welcome, as well as made him smile the whole time. The food....incredibly delicious. We had the stuffed salmon which was fabulous. I’d probably order that every time as it was really that good. Wife had the tuna with risotto, and it was also very good. Perfectly seared. All in all, I’d say this place is a cant miss in Chiloé
Tyler K — Google review
We wanted to eat here, was marked open in the schedule, and no communication marking it would be closed on their social media. We found it closed, we contacted them for their updated schedule but no response so far.
Davide D — Google review
This restaurant is truly a good one, pisco sour and PATAGONIA beers one of the best I tray on my life, the sea food is to die for high recomendable
Jose E — Google review
Romantic ! Go Forward on ships deck for a drink and sight the delta bay gives you ! Avan garde Chilean cuisine ! Wonderful !
Frank R — Google review
We had a lovely pizza seafood and a soup of seafood. A bit pricey,but no bread as a starter as usual everywhere in chili .
Ben H — Google review
Ruta Panamericana Sur 2053, 5700000 Castro, Los Lagos, Chilehttp://www.lacevicheria.cl/+56 9 6419 0006Tips and more reviews for La Cevichería Chiloé
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