Overview
The Chilean National Library (Biblioteca Nacional de Chile) is the main library of Chile and one of the most important cultural institutions in the country. It houses a vast collection of books, manuscripts, and historical documents.
The library is a key repository of Chile's cultural and historical heritage, offering a wealth of knowledge and resources for researchers, students, and the general public.
Location
Address
Avenida Libertador Bernardo O'Higgins 651, Santiago de Chile, Metropolitan
Neighborhood: Downtown
Coordinates
-33.456940, -70.648270
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
September-November
Best Time of Day
Late morning
Better lighting for reading and photography
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild and pleasant
- • New exhibitions
- • Outdoor reading events
summer
Warm and sunny
- • Extended summer hours
- • Special summer exhibitions
autumn
Cool and crisp
- • Fall literary programs
- • Special autumn exhibitions
winter
Cool and rainy
- • Holiday exhibitions
- • Winter reading programs
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Check library hours
- Bring ID for entry
- Respect quiet environment
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Low
- • Large building, bring comfortable shoes
Medical facilities: First aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit cards
Currency
Chilean Peso (CLP)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, Comfortable shoes, Comfortable walking shoes, Inappropriate attire
Booking Tips
- • Not required, but recommended for special events
- • Official website
- • 24 hours in advance
- • Available for special exhibitions
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Biblioteca Nacional de Chile
Size: 30 MB
Features: Library map, Event calendar, Digital collections
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Throughout the library
Charging Stations: Available in common areas
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Comodoro Arturo Benitez International Airport
Distance: 20 km
Travel Time: 30 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 2 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: A symbol of Chilean culture and history
Historical Significance: Founded shortly after Chile's independence, it has been a key institution in preserving the nation's cultural heritage
Insider Tips
- Visit the library's cafe for a quiet break
- Check for special exhibitions and events
Local Recommendations
- • Visit the on-site cafe
- • Ask about guided tours
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Spanish, English, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Historic Reading Room
Best Time: Morning
Tips: Wide-angle shots to capture the grandeur
Result: Stunning architectural shots
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
La Moneda Palace
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Historical Site
Plaza de Armas
Distance: 300m
Walking: 5 min
Type: Public Square
Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes
Distance: 800m
Walking: 10 min
Type: Museum
Santiago Metropolitan Cathedral
Distance: 300m
Walking: 5 min
Type: Religious Site
Reviews
Based on 500 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit the cafe"
- "Check for special exhibitions"
- "Bring a notebook for research"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (10)
Half Day Santiago City Tour
Pre or Post Valparaiso Cruise with Santiago City Tour and optional Vineyard
Half-Day Santiago Bike Tour: City Highlights & Parks
Private Valparaiso Port Pre-Post Cruise Santiago City Tour and Undurraga Winery
Small Group Best Deal: Panoramic Santiago city tour experience plus Viña del mar - Valparaiso - Casablanca in Two Days from Santiago
Santiago Private walking tour with Lunch
City Tour Santiago Walking + Typical Tastings + Teleférico and Funicular
Wine Tour and Santiago City in a Small Group
Small-Group Night City Tour: San Cristobal Hill and Dinner Show
Private Night City Tour with San Cristobal Hill And Dinner Show
Quick Info
Available Tours
16
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
500
Adult Entry
Free