Top 100 best museums in Chile

The Museum of Memory and Human Rights is a significant landmark in Santiago, Chile. It serves as a memorial to the victims of human rights violations that occurred during the military dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet from 1973 to 1990. The museum provides a historical perspective on this period, offering visitors an opportunity to learn about the events and their impact on Chilean society.

The Palacio de la Real Audiencia y Cajas Reales, also known as Palacio de la Real Audiencia or Palacio de las Cajas, or Palacio de la Independencia, is a historical building located in the north-central sidewalk of the Plaza de Armas in Santiago de Chile. The building, which dates back to 1808, has been the home of the National History Museum of Chile since 1982. It is situated on part of the land that once belonged to Pedro de Valdivia, facing the Plaza de Armas of Santiago.

The Museum is housed in the old building of the Royal Customs Palace of Santiago, located at the corner of Bandera and Compañía streets, in the historic center of the Chilean capital. It is conveniently located near the Plaza de Armas metro station, making it easily accessible for tourists.

La Chascona is one of the three residences that were owned by the renowned Chilean poet, Pablo Neruda. It is situated in the Bellavista neighborhood of the Providencia commune in Santiago, Chile. This location is not only historically significant but also offers a unique cultural experience for visitors.

La Sebastiana is one of the three houses that were owned by the renowned Chilean poet Pablo Neruda. It is situated in the picturesque city of Valparaíso, specifically on Cerro Bellavista. The house stands out for its architectural beauty and the magnificent view it offers of the bay and the port.

The Cousiño Palace, located in Santiago, Chile, is a grand residential palace that spans an impressive 3,500 square meters. The palace is spread over two floors and features 12 distinct rooms, each with its own unique charm and character. This architectural marvel offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Cousiño-Goyenechea family, one of the wealthiest families in Santiago during the late 19th century.

The Museum of Science and Technology, also known as Mucytec, is situated in the Quinta Normal Park in Santiago, Chile. This location is easily accessible and offers a serene environment for visitors to explore the wonders of science and technology.

The Isla Negra House, located in the commune of El Quisco, province of San Antonio, Valparaíso Region, is one of the three residences of the renowned Chilean writer and poet, Pablo Neruda. It is situated approximately 113 kilometers from Santiago. This house holds a significant place in Neruda's life and is now a popular tourist destination.

The Museo Colonial Alemán de Frutillar, located in Frutillar, is a museum that provides a detailed account of the immigration of German migrants to the Región de los Lagos in Chile. The museum was officially opened to the public in 1984 and has since been a significant site for understanding the history of German migration to Chile.

The Museum of Visual Arts (MAVI) is situated in the vibrant Lastarria neighborhood of Santiago, Chile. It is conveniently located next to the Archaeological Museum of Santiago, in the Mulato Gil de Castro Square. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists who are exploring the city and are interested in immersing themselves in Chilean art and culture.

The Chilean National Museum of Natural History, one of the three national museums in Chile, is situated in Quinta Normal Park. This museum, founded in 1830, is one of the oldest natural history museums in South America. It was established with a focus on the biology and geography of Chile, particularly its crops and mineral resources.

The Corbeta Esmeralda Museum is a significant cultural landmark located in the city of Iquique, in the Tarapacá Region of Chile. This museum is a full-scale representation of the Chilean corvette Esmeralda, which was sunk in the naval battle of Iquique in 1879. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in a significant part of Chilean history.

The Museo Fonck, also known as the Museo de Arqueología e Historia Francisco Fonck, is situated at 4 Norte 784 esquina 1 Oriente, Viña del Mar, Valparaíso, in Chile. This museum was inaugurated on November 25, 1937, and is named in honor of Francisco Fonck, a German doctor, explorer, and politician who settled in Chile and is known for his exploration of southern Chile.

A place for all history buffs. The biggest attraction are the Chinchorro mummies, which are said to be even older than the Egyptian ones.

In 1943, to commemorate the centenary of its foundation, Fuerte Bulnes was rebuilt and reopened as a museum. Since 2008, the fort, along with Puerto del Hambre, is part of the 250-hectare Strait of Magellan Park. This park offers visitors the opportunity to explore the historical sites and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

The San Francisco Colonial Art Museum, situated in the former convent of the Church of San Francisco in Santiago, Chile, was established in 1969. This historical location adds a unique charm to the museum, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in colonial art and history.

The Nao Victoria Museum, situated in Punta Arenas, Chile, has been welcoming visitors since October 1, 2011. This private museum offers an interactive experience, allowing visitors to engage with replicas of historic ships that played significant roles in the discovery and colonization of the region.

The R. P. Gustavo Le Paige Archaeological Museum was situated in the commune of San Pedro de Atacama, in the II Region of Antofagasta, Chile. This location is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, making it a significant site for those interested in archaeology and history.

Artequin Viña del Mar is an educational art museum that aims to stimulate interest in art and creativity in children. The museum uses an interactive and playful methodology, complemented with reproductions of universal art. The museum offers guided tours, workshops, and creates educational material to achieve this goal.

The Historical and Weapons Museum of Arica is situated in the city of Arica, atop the Morro de Arica, in the Arica and Parinacota Region, in the north of Chile. This location offers a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding areas, making it a unique spot for visitors.

The Museo Interactivo Mirador (MIM) is a science museum situated in the La Granja commune of Chile. It is a part of the Fundación Tiempos Nuevos, which is under the Ministry of Education. The museum is known for its interactive exhibits that make science accessible and engaging for all visitors.

The Pablo Neruda Railway Museum in Temuco is a significant historical site located in the Araucanía Region of Chile. It is situated on Barros Arana Street, nestled between Valparaíso and Bascuñán in the city of Temuco. The museum houses the Temuco Machine House, a national monument that adds to the historical significance of the location.

The smashing pavilion holds art museum aimed at kids - interactive, amusing, tasteful. So extraordinary!

The Gabriela Mistral Museum is a significant cultural institution in Chile, situated in the city of Vicuña, within the Coquimbo Region. The museum was established on September 18, 1957, and serves as a tribute to the life and works of the renowned Chilean poetess, Gabriela Mistral.

The Violeta Parra Museum, located in Santiago, Chile, is an art museum and cultural center dedicated to preserving and promoting the work of the renowned Chilean artist, Violeta Parra. The museum was inaugurated on October 4, 2015, and is situated on Vicuña Mackenna Avenue 37, with an additional entrance on Ramón Corvalán Street 38.

The Meteorite Museum is situated in the commune of San Pedro de Atacama, in the Antofagasta Region of Chile. It is renowned for its permanent exhibition of a vast collection of meteorites that were discovered in the Atacama Desert, located in the northern part of the country.

The National Maritime Museum is situated in the building that once housed the Naval School. This historic building is located on Artillery Hill in the vibrant city of Valparaíso, Chile. The museum's location offers visitors not only a chance to explore the rich naval and maritime history of Chile but also to enjoy the stunning views of the city and the Pacific Ocean.

The Natural History Museum of Valparaíso, also known as MHNV, is a museum dedicated to natural history and is situated in the city of Valparaíso in Chile. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural history of the region and the country.

The Domo Cultura Ánimas is a site museum situated in the Chilean city of Coquimbo. It is named after the Ánimas culture, which was a precursor to the Diaguita culture. The Diaguita culture inhabited the northern part of Chile between 900 and 1200 AD. The museum was established after the remains of this culture were discovered during excavations in the area.

This former prison belongs to the city's most vibrant art museums. It even includes work from former inmates, some of whom even work here.

The Museo Histórico Dominico (MHD) is situated within the Centro Patrimonial Recoleta Dominica, which is located on the grounds of the Church and Convent of the Recoleta Dominica. This location adds a historical and cultural context to the museum, making it a unique destination for tourists interested in history and culture.

The Museo de Antofagasta, situated in the Historic District of Antofagasta, is a museum that showcases historical and archaeological artifacts. This location offers visitors a chance to delve into the rich history and archaeology of the region.

The Santiago Fire Museum, also known as MuBo, is a cultural institution situated in the Santiago Centro commune, in Santiago de Chile. It is a place where visitors can learn about the history and values of the Santiago Fire Department (CBS). The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the cultural heritage of firefighters, presenting it from various perspectives and connecting with a wide and diverse audience through educational activities and outreach.

The National Aeronautical and Space Museum is a significant institution in Chile, dedicated to the dissemination of the country's aeronautical heritage. It provides a comprehensive overview of the history and development of aviation in Chile, making it an informative and educational destination for tourists interested in aviation and space exploration.

The National Center for Contemporary Art Cerrillos (CNACC) is a relatively new addition to Chile's cultural scene, having been established in September 2016. It serves as a museum for temporary modern exhibitions and also acts as a repository for Chilean art works from 1967 onwards. This makes it a unique destination for those interested in contemporary Chilean art.

The Auto Museum Moncopulli is a unique destination in the commune of Puyehue, in the province of Osorno, Chile. This museum is dedicated to the preservation and display of classic cars, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and explore the history of the automobile industry.

Private observatory offering educative tours suitable for both adults and children. The guides are all astronomical enthusiasts.

The Museo de la Solidaridad Salvador Allende (MSSA) is a contemporary art museum situated in Santiago, Chile. It is managed by the Arte y Solidaridad Foundation, which is composed of representatives from the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Cultures, Arts and Heritage, and the Salvador Allende Foundation.

The Museo de Arte Contemporáneo (MAC) is an institution that falls under the Faculty of Arts of the University of Chile. It is situated in the city of Santiago, making it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city.

Built for the Scottish naval hero Lord Thomas Cochrane who set up Chile's navy, the museum has a number of exhibits and a great scenic view.

The Gabriela Mistral Education Museum, also known as MEGM, is a historical institution founded on September 13, 1941. It is situated in the west wing of the old Normal School of Preceptoras, located at the intersection of Chacabuco and Compañía de Jesús streets. This location is in the Yungay neighborhood, a vibrant and culturally rich area of Santiago, Chile.

The Santiago Railway Museum is situated in the Quinta Normal Park, a popular urban park in the capital city of Chile. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting Santiago, offering a unique opportunity to explore the rich railway history of the country amidst the tranquility of a beautiful park.

Established in 1960, the Museo Regional de Iquique initially operated under the University of the North and was located on Bolívar Street. However, since 1987, the museum has been housed in the building that once served as the Courts of Justice of Iquique, at 951 Baquedano Walk. This location is part of the Typical Zone, a heritage area declared in 1977.

The Museo Naval de Iquique, founded on May 20, 1983, is located in the historic Peruvian Customs building from 1871, in the city of Iquique, in the Tarapacá Region of Chile. This museum plays a significant role in preserving and showcasing the historical elements related to the major events that occurred in the bay during the last century, particularly the Naval Combat of Iquique during the War of the Pacific.

The Rioja Palace is a significant historical building located in the Vergara Population sector of Viña del Mar, in the Valparaíso Region of Chile. It is situated on Quillota street, between 3 and 4 North. This location is easily accessible and is a key point of interest for tourists visiting the area.

The Museo de Historia Natural de Concepción, located in the city of Concepción, Chile, offers a unique insight into the geographical history of not only the city and the Biobío Region, but also Chile and South America. The museum's collection is a testament to the rich and diverse history of these regions, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in natural history.

The museum's collection is displayed in various settings that replicate a 19th-century house. Visitors can explore a living room, dining room, bedroom, study, and traditional kitchen, each filled with period-appropriate objects.

The Regional Museum of Aysén is a public institution situated in the city of Coyhaique, in the Aysén Region of Chilean Patagonia. It is part of the National Service of Cultural Heritage and the National System of Museums of Chile. The museum is a significant cultural and historical site that offers visitors a chance to explore the rich heritage of the region.

The Father Sebastian Englert Anthropological Museum is situated in the town of Hanga Roa on Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island, in Chilean Polynesia. Named after the Bavarian missionary, Fr. Sebastian Englert, the museum was established in 1973 and is dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage of Rapa Nui. The museum is managed by the Chilean National Service of Cultural Heritage and houses the William Mulloy Library.

The Caldera Paleontological Museum, also known as MPC, is a unique destination for those interested in natural history and paleontology. It is conveniently located within the Estación Caldera Cultural Center in the Caldera commune. This location not only provides easy access for visitors but also situates the museum within a vibrant cultural hub.

Casa Museo Tornini is a private museum and cultural center situated in the city of Caldera, in the Atacama Region, in the northern part of Chile. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region.

The Archaeological Museum of La Serena is a centrally located museum in the city of La Serena, which is the capital of the Coquimbo Region. The museum was established on April 3, 1943, making it a longstanding institution in the city.

The Museo del Limarí is situated in the north-central part of Ovalle, the capital city of the Limarí province in the Coquimbo Region of Chile. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city.

The Museo de La Ligua is a cultural institution located in the Province of Petorca, in the Valparaíso Region of northern Chile. It is under the jurisdiction of the Ilustre Municipalidad de La Ligua. This museum is a significant part of the cultural landscape of the region, offering visitors a chance to explore the rich history and heritage of the area.

The Museo y Centro Cultural Presidente Pedro Aguirre Cerda is a cultural space and conservation center located in the town of Pocuro, in the Calle Larga commune, in the Valparaíso region of Chile. This museum and cultural center is dedicated to the life and legacy of President Pedro Aguirre Cerda, and it is housed in the building where he was born.

El Museo de la Moda, located in Vitacura, Santiago, Chile, is a private institution that specializes in the collection, preservation, and exhibition of clothing items. These items have been either donated or acquired at international auctions, making the museum's collection unique and diverse. The museum was inaugurated in July 2007 by the Museo de la Moda Foundation, which was established in 1999 by Jorge Yarur Bascuñán.

The Ignacio Domeyko Mineralogical Museum is situated in the city of La Serena, which is in the Coquimbo Region of Chile. This location is significant as it is easily accessible to tourists visiting the region. The museum is a part of the mining engineering department of the University of La Serena, adding to its credibility and authenticity.

The Museo del Carmen de Maipú is a private museum with a historical, religious, and artistic character. It is located in the commune of Maipú, Santiago de Chile. The museum is a place that preserves, exhibits, and communicates various goods of Chilean cultural heritage.

The Military and Historical Museum of Chile, also known as MHM, is a permanent institution situated in Santiago, Chile. It is open to the public and is dedicated to serving society and its development. The museum's administration is managed by the Chilean Army Garrison. It was established to educate the public about Chile's military history and its value as a historical-cultural heritage.

The Casa Museo Eduardo Frei Montalva is a significant historical site located at Hindenburg 683, Providencia, Santiago, Chile. This was the residence where Eduardo Frei Montalva, a prominent lawyer and Christian Democrat politician who served as the President of Chile from 1964 to 1970, spent the last four decades of his life. Today, it stands as a museum in his memory, offering visitors a glimpse into his life and times.

The Historical Museum of the Carabineros of Chile (MHC) is an official institution dedicated to preserving the historical heritage of the Carabineros, the national law enforcement body. The museum houses a variety of collections that trace the history of policing in Chile, from the arrival of Pedro de Valdivia in the Mapocho valley to the present day. This provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution of law enforcement in the country.

The Colo-Colo Museum, inaugurated in June 2009, is situated in the 'Ocean' sector of the Monumental Stadium. This location makes it easily accessible for visitors who are also interested in exploring the stadium.

The Museo del Niño Rural is situated in the town of Ciruelos, within the commune of Pichilemu in the O'Higgins region. This location offers visitors a chance to explore the rural charm of the area while learning about its rich history.

The southern sector of La Casa Patronal del Fundo de Lircunlauta is home to the Ilustre Municipalidad de San Fernando and the Museo de Lircunlauta. This means that visitors to the museum also have the opportunity to explore the historic building in which it is housed, adding an extra layer of interest to their visit.

Founded on August 20, 1964, the Museo O'Higginiano y de Bellas Artes de Talca has since become a repository of significant collections. These include Chilean paintings, sculptures, Mapuche silverware, manuscripts, weapons, and numismatics. These collections offer a comprehensive insight into the artistic and historical past of the Maule Region and the country.

The Hacienda San Agustín de Puñual, also known as Santuario Cuna de Prat, is a significant site in Chilean history. It serves as a hacienda, museum, and national historic monument. It is located in the commune of Ninhue, in the Province of Itata, Ñuble Region. The site is managed by the Armed Forces of Chile, ensuring its preservation and maintenance.

The Violeta Parra Museum in San Carlos, Chile, is a cultural institution dedicated to the life and work of Violeta Parra. It is located in the city of San Carlos, in the province of Punilla, in the Ñuble Region. The museum aims to share and disseminate the legacy left by the singer-songwriter over the years.