valparaiso travel tips

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Syncopated, dilapidated, colorful and poetic, Valparaíso is a wonderful mess. Pablo Neruda, who drew much inspiration from this hard-working port town, said it best: 'Valparaíso, how absurd you are…you haven't combed your hair, you've never had time to get dressed, life has always surprised you.'

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

La Sebastiana

Bellavista's most famous resident writer was Pablo Neruda, who made a point of watching Valparaíso's annual New Year's fireworks from his house at the top…

Parque Cultural de Valparaíso

This cultural center built from the bones of a prison has a little bit of everything the thinking traveler could ask for. There are excellent murals in…

Museo Marítimo Nacional

Cannons still stand ready outside this naval museum. Much space is devoted to Chile's victory in the 19th-century War of the Pacific. Other exhibits…

Mercado Cardonal

As colorful as Valparaíso's trademark houses – and built almost as high – are the fruit and vegetable displays in the Mercado Cardonal, bordered by Yungay…

Plaza Sotomayor

Plaza Sotomayor is dominated by the palatial blue-colored Edificio Armada de Chile. In the middle of the square lies the Monumento a los Héroes de Iquique…

Cementerios 1 & 2

The city's most illustrious, influential and infamous residents rest in peace in Cementerios 1 and 2, where the tombs look like ornate mini alaces. Nearby…

Ascensor El Peral

The recently revamped Ascensor El Peral starts from near the Tribunales (Law Courts) just off Plaza Sotomayor and continues to Cerro Alegre, home to the…

Reloj Turri

Where Prat and Cochrane converge to become Esmeralda, the Edificio Turri narrows to the width of its namesake clock tower, the Reloj Turri. This is one of…

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The 15 Coolest Things to Do in Valparaíso, Chile

By Author Tom Osborne

Posted on Last updated: 21st January 2024

Valparaíso (or Valpo to the locals) is a Chilean city steeped in history. Once known as the “The Jewel of South America”, this city’s bohemian, youthful revival over the past 20 years has made it a must-visit destination when touring these parts.

If you love getting lost in alleyways full of street art, craft beer, and cocktails, or just want to escape the sweltering summer heat in Santiago , Valparaíso is the place for you.

Situated on the Pacific coast, an hour or so from Santiago, Valparaíso in its pomp was considered one of the most important port towns in the world and often on travelers’ lists of things to do in Chile .

Nowadays, where these streets were once paved with gold, the buildings are now covered in some of the most beautiful street art that can be found anywhere in the world.

There are so many things to do in Valparaíso, you may just end up staying longer than planned! (We did…) 

What things should you do in Valparaíso?

May 2023 safety update: the city of Valparaíso is becoming increasingly unsafe to visit. Muggings have been reported in the tourist neighborhoods of Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepcion, even during the day. We recommend avoiding this city until further notice. If you do visit, taking a pre-booked taxi or using Uber is essential if straying from these two neighborhoods during day or night and extreme precautions should be taken when walking around the city. Read more safety information here .

1. Wander the city’s colorful streets

It sounds simple but many of Valparaíso’s streets are full of beautiful pieces of art – definitely the main tourist attraction in Valparaíso. From spray can graffiti, to cat mosaics and paintings of intergalactic timelords, you can find it all.

Before setting off make sure you are wearing comfy footwear and be prepared for hills as Valparaíso is built on 42 of them. 

Here are my top streets to hit:

(TIP: make sure you walk each street both ways as art can be found on walls unseen from one direction!)

• Hector Calvo – if you start right from the bottom of the steps, you’ll see a whole load more (including the cat mosaic!)
• Atahualpa (conveniently next to Elias)
• Carillo Armstrong (great for views)

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These are just a few spots we loved. No doubt wherever you stay there will be something right outside the door.

2. Join a free walking tour

Like most cities in South America, Valparaíso is well served by free walking tours, which are run on tips. As there is so much to learn about this amazing city, a walking tour is the perfect way to begin your time. 

In its heyday, the city provided respite to the thousands of sailors heading from Europe to California during the gold rush, when it earned the name “the jewel of South America”. However, the construction of the Panama Canal changed everything.

Added to that, earthquakes are very common here, the largest in 1906 and, more recently in 2010, have taken many lives and destroyed countless homes, meaning the city is almost constantly being rebuilt. 

We did ours with the Tours 4 Tips crew . The tours are run by enthusiastic locals who are supremely well-informed about their city. They are welcoming, engaging, and very responsive to questions.

 You can find them at 10am and 3pm in Plaza Sotomayor each day wearing a red and white striped t-shirt like Wally (or Waldo if you’re reading this in the US).

All tours are in both English and Spanish. Whilst you can reserve, it isn’t necessary.

3. Hunt out the work of Un Kolor Distinto

The most prolific artists in Valparaíso are the duo Un Kolor Distinto. These guys are everywhere and we made it our mission to see as many of their works as possible.

They are best known for four huge pieces commissioned by the city council on the sides of four of the highest buildings in Valparaíso. 

One, depicting summer, is very easily seen from any high point on the west side of the city. The others aren’t quite so easy to find but through some sleuthing on their Instagram page , it’s very possible to find them all! A really fun Valparaíso activity.

4. Chow down on the local favorite, chorrillana

Valparaíso is home to one of Chile’s finest ‘delicacies’, the chorrillana . It’s essentially a heart attack on a plate – but what a delightful heart attack! 

It begins with chips. Lots of chips. Then, add 3 kinds of meat: steak, sausage, and kebab. Throw in some caramelized onions, cheese, and a fried egg on top and there you have it. 

It might not sound like it but honestly, it’s excellent. Almost every eatery in town will serve it but for the real experience, check out J Cruz ( Condell 1466 Casa 11, Valparaíso ) or Mastedonte ( Esmeralda 1139, Valparaíso ).

We loved the latter both for the food, the brilliant interior décor (complete with perfectly painted sky and cool fake but real-looking trees), and delicious juices – the latter a great compliment to the mighty chorrillana .

5. Get lost in the winding streets of the Concepción neighborhood

Once you find yourself in the heart of Valparaíso, you’ll notice a bright yellow house perched on the top of a cliff. This house sits on the corner of a barrio (neighborhood) and hill known as Concepción. 

This neighborhood is a great place to spend an afternoon wandering the streets and checking out the art-smothering alleyways and building sides.  2023 safety update: be careful to not wander beyond the boundaries of Cerro Concepcion and Cerro Alegre due to the increased risk of muggings in Valparaíso. Take up-to-date local guidance from your accommodation.

Head to the yellow house, AKA Hotel Brighton (Paseo Atkinson 151- 153, Valparaíso) for sunset for a spectacular view over the Pacific Ocean.

Either pop in and have a cocktail or two on their beautiful veranda or hang out in the street outside, where occasionally you’ll find people dancing to the music of local buskers.

Need more inspiration?

You’ll find even more detailed itineraries, off-the-beaten-path gems, hiking routes and accommodation, restaurant and tour recommendations to suit your travel style in my brand-new guidebook, Moon Chile.

You can also browse paintings by some talented local artists and this is one of the best areas for shopping in Valparaíso for locally made handicrafts and paintings.

How to get to Barrio Concepción: There are plenty of streets that will take you up to Concepción by foot. However, after a day or two of walking up and down Valparaíso’s mountainous streets, why not treat yourself to a cheap ride on one of the funiculars.

Catch either the newly refurbished Ascensor Concepcion or one of the first funiculars built in Valparaíso in 1902 Ascensor Reina Victoria . Rides on the funiculars will set you back somewhere in the region of $100-$200 CLP ($0.15-$0.30 USD).

6. Enjoy evening cocktails on the roof terrace of Fauna

Fancy a sunset drink or nightcap overlooking Valparaíso and the Pacific Ocean? Fauna is the spot for you. This restaurant, bar, and hotel is blessed with a rooftop terrace on a hillside giving patrons a stunning uninterrupted panorama of the surrounding city. 

If you’re in Valparaíso on the weekend, it will be busy so you may have to wait for a table outside. However, we turned up three times and had a table on the terrace within 15 minutes or so every time.

Be sure to try the Fauna Pisco Sour (with berries!) or a Mauco IPA from just up the road in Concón.

7. Bar hop down Calle Cumming

Thanks to the city’s large university student population, if you fancy a bit of a night out and a dance, there are plenty of options.

However, to experience Valparaíso at night you only really need to head to one street – Cumming. How convenient! 2023 safety update: be careful around this area at nighttime due to the increased risk of muggings in Valparaíso. Take up-to-date local guidance from your accommodation.

But don’t let that make you think there’s no variety. Kick things off with a litro (a massive liter bottle of beer) at El Gato en la Ventana (Cumming 113). If you can, grab a table outside as this place gets the evening sun. 

Head on to Cervecería Anfiteatro (Cumming 107) for some local craft beers or Ilícito Bar (Cumming 68) if cocktails are more your thing (they also have local beers!). 

El Viaje (Cumming 93) is the place to end up for a dance but don’t get there too soon. An energetic lady may try to encourage you otherwise, but this place doesn’t get going until 12.30-1am. Expect jazz, samba, salsa, and more.

The buses do run late in Valparaíso but, as with almost every city in South America, take a taxi back to your accommodation – it’s safer!

8. Dive into the city’s history at the Parque Cultural de Valparaíso

This cultural hub is very important to the people of Valparaíso. Originally a Spanish fort, which then became a prison – and was used to house and torture political prisoners during the Pinochet dictatorship – it’s now a community space for art and culture. 

Here you can see the art of former prisoners on the walls, young people practicing dance routines and (if you get lucky) an exhibition. Check the listings here.

Tip: if you take the free walking tour with Tours 4 Tips, you’ll stop here en route.

9. Sip on a local special: pisco sours

Valparaiso is where we had some of the best pisco sours we’ve tasted in all of South America. Pisco is a spirit made from grapes and its origins (like many things) are hotly contested between Chile and Peru.

This drink combines pisco with lemon, sugar, and egg white to create a highly addictive and extremely tasty concoction.

Most bars and restaurants around Valparaíso will offer them so get tasting! Weirdly, the best was in BeerHOUSE (Aníbal Pinto 341-339, Valparaíso). Ask for the one with a hint of menta (mint).

10. Meet some local fishermen at Valparaíso’s port and market

Plenty of local buses go to Caleta Portales (it should only cost a ‘local’ fare), Valparaíso’s main fish market located in the east of the city on the road to Viña del Mar. Here you can buy fish directly from the fisherman.  2023 safety update: this area is now dangerous, so I would avoid visiting . Take up-to-date local guidance from your accommodation.

Ask to have it fileteado and watch them work their magic with a knife before they bag you up some freshly caught fish. A lot also sell ceviche in small plastic pots: buy some and eat it on the beach – it’s divine.

How to get here: Get off as you reach the Portales metro station and walk over the pedestrian bridge to get to the beachside. You’ll see a building on the right that looks a bit like an old sports stand and some restaurants and market stalls to your left. The building on the right is the fish market.

11. Chill out on Playa Concón

If you’re craving a bit of beach action, nearby Concón is home to the best beaches near Valparaíso.

The buses in Valparaíso are brilliant. Case in point: you can take one bus all the way from Valparaíso to Concón, a pretty beach town an hour and a half away. And it costs just $540 CLP ($0.75 USD). Buses #602 or #605 are those that you want and should have a sign in the front indicating their destination is Concón.

The ride is winding and, like all bus drivers in Valparaíso, they drive quite quickly, which is something to bear in mind if you get travel sick. The road follows the coast bar a detour into Vina del Mar so you get great views the whole way.

Concón has two main beaches: Playa Amarilla (a yellow sand beach) or Playa La Boca (black sands).

Both beaches are nice for ‘city’ beaches and the water isn’t too cold (but it is the Pacific Ocean!). Don’t expect seclusion but if you head there during the week, they will be quieter. 

On the bus, you can jump off at either beach or continue until you reach an empanada place called Las Deliciosas (Av. Borgoño 25370, Concón), right at the northeast edge of town.

They are famous for their seafood empanadas fritas (fried empanadas). The walk back to Playa La Boca isn’t far.

12. Tour the award-winning vineyards of the Casablanca Valley

The Casablanca wine valley is just an hour away, meaning visiting vineyards is a Valparaíso activity that you just can’t miss. You can pay for a tour but it’s super simple to do it yourself. Here are the key points:

• Ask your hostel/hotel to call the wineries you’d like to visit at least one day before you plan to go. All the wineries are pretty close to each other so it’s definitely possible to pack in 3-4 depending on how much you like wine and your stamina. Ask them to check the prices too, although most wineries have their prices indicated on their website. Most are between $12,000-$20,000 CLP ($16-$28 USD). 
• Head to the bus station and hop on the next bus to Casablanca. They are very frequent and the fare should be around $1,500 CLP ($2 USD).
• Grab a taxi from Casablanca to your first stop (Uber works for this trip). Depending on your negotiating skills, you may well be able to arrange a flat day rate with your driver for visiting a number of different wineries (expect to pay at least $40,000 CLP ($56 USD) for the day).
• When you arrive at each stop, let them know that you’ll need a taxi to take you on to your next tour. We had issues with getting an Uber out in the valley. Each trip shouldn’t cost more than $7,000 CLP ($10 USD).
• On the way back, ask the driver to drop you at the stop for buses back to Valparaíso. The buses run late so you’ll have no problems coming back after the tours. You can buy a ticket on the bus and it’ll be the same price as the ticket out. 

Alternatively, you can chat with a taxi driver in Casablanca about renting their services for the afternoon/day for a fixed price. Expect this to be in the region of $40,000 CLP ($56 USD) and you may need to negotiate! 

Choosing which vineyard to head to is totally dependent on what you like to drink and what you are interested in. Emiliana is a great biodiverse vineyard with some fantastic wines to taste. They also have llamas.

Viña Mar is known for its sparkling wines, while Casa Marin has intriguing whites such as sauvignon gris and an incredible restaurant – although you’ll need to rent a car to get here (or stop overnigh t). All three are some of the best wineries in Chile .

13. Soak up the live music and tango at Bar Cinzano

From Wednesday through Sunday, you can find live music at Bar Cinzano , a great traditional Chilean tango bar. Dancing is strictly for those that can but it’s a great spot to watch it all and soak up the atmosphere of Valparaíso at night.

The old guys behind the bar (I suspect the same that have been there since it opened) are very welcoming and friendly and you’d be missing out if you didn’t try the almost sickly sweet – but very palatable – jarra de borgoña , a jug of red wine mixed with strawberries and icing sugar. The musicians are excellent too!

14. Visit Pablo Neruda’s eccentric former house, La Sebastiana

Last but definitely not least, is one of the main tourist attractions in Valparaíso: La Sebastiana ($7,000 CLP ($10 USD) entrance). 

Chile’s most famous poet had one of his three houses here, which has been kept in its original state as a museum in his honor.

Perched up on top of Cerro Florida, one of Valpo’s many hills (if you continue up Calle Hector Calvo to the top, you’ll find it), the museum provides a great insight into his life and inspirations. It also boasts a spectacular view of the city.

15. Take a day trip out to Quintay and Isla Negra

While there is plenty in Valparaíso itself to keep you entertained, those seeking a true insight into Chilean culture should rent a car and head out to the coast south of the city (check out Rental Cars for the cheapest deals).

One of the top destinations to visit from Valparaíso is picture-perfect Quintay, 42 kilometers south. This small fishing village clings to a pretty cove where dozens of pelicans bob on the ocean, waiting patiently for scraps from the resident fishermen.

You can watch all of the action from the terrace of Miramar , one of the finest fish restaurants you will find in the entire country (try the pastel de jaiba, a Parmesan-crab pie to see what I mean!).

Get here as soon as it opens at noon to ensure you get a spot on the outdoor terrace as they don’t take bookings.

A short drive three kilometers northwest of the village, Playa Grande is a kilometer-long beach of golden sands and is practically undeveloped. While it gets popular in January and February, outside of these months, you’ll find it serenely empty.

To get here, take the potholed turnoff to the left along the F-802, just after the last few houses, and follow it to its conclusion.

Where is Valparaíso and how to get there

Valparaíso lies right on the Pacific coast, 116 kilometers north west of Chilean capital, Santiago.

To get there, simply hop on a bus from Terminal Alameda (Universidad de Santiago Metro station) in Santiago. The ride will take you approximately 1.30 hours and should cost no more than $8,000 CLP ($11 USD).

Getting around Valparaíso

For people visiting Valparaíso, the city really isn’t very big. It is quite hilly though. To help, a huge fleet of buses service the city. Trips within Valparaíso cost between $300-370 CLP (locale) and those further afield are $500-570 CLP ( directo ) ($0.40-$0.50 or $0.70-$0.80 in USD). 

In the city you can flag these down without being at an actual stop and they will stop anywhere just shout, ‘pare aqui, por favor’ .

They drive rather quickly mainly because the drivers are paid per ticket sale so it can occasionally feel a bit hairy but by and large they are a safe and fantastically cheap way of getting around.

The Metro runs along the coast and is another option to get to certain places like Vina del Mar or Caleta Portales.

You need to pick up a Metro card to use it which costs around $1,400 CLP ($2 USD). Trips will cost between $400-900 CLP ($0.50-1.20 USD). 

Taxis are plentiful in the city and Uber works here (although its legality across South America is questionable). The usual advice applies here: if you can, have someone you trust book a taxi for you instead of flagging one in the street (we had no problems doing the latter though!).

Is Valparaíso safe?

Safety is becoming an increasing concern in Valparaíso, with muggings and car jacking on the rise. I highly recommend not straying from the safe tourist areas of Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepcion (although muggings here are still a possibility), even during the day.

If you want to visit other parts of the city, I highly recommend doing so with a tour such as Tours4Tips , who will also be able to advise about safety and security across the area.

Thieves are using distraction techniques to rob unsuspecting visitors. Do not leave anything of value in your car and do not accept assistance from a stranger if you have an unexplained flat tire or other car problem; this is a tactic used to distract you while another person removes your belongings from the vehicle.

The bus station is where a lot of theft takes place and the area surrounding it is dangerous; upon arrival here, book an Uber to take you to your accommodation.

If you are moving around the city at night, it’s probably best to take a taxi.

Looking for more inspiration? Check out these Chile itineraries , this comprehensive guide to visiting Torres del Paine National Park , and this packing list for Patagonia . You can also learn which other places in Chile I recommend visiting (and avoiding!).

Jeff Carman

Monday 19th of February 2024

Steph - your blog is excellent. Thank you. Question….has the security situation in Valparaíso improved. Thanks, Jeff

Steph Dyson

Wednesday 21st of February 2024

Hi Jeff, I haven't been there in a while but I think it's similar to what it was. Steph

Tuesday 12th of December 2023

FYI Emiliana winery has been closed to visitors since 2020

Sunday 14th of January 2024

Thanks Lisa, I'll update the post with this information. Steph

Wednesday 15th of November 2023

We will be spending a few nights for New Years in Valparaiso and I'm very excited to try some of your recommendations which I find way better than the overpriced corporate travel sites' usual "tours." Thanks for posting!

Thursday 23rd of November 2023

No problem! Have a great trip Rafael! Steph

Wednesday 7th of December 2022

Wow, this is one of the best rundowns of TTD in Valparaiso that I have seen. Thanks!

Thursday 15th of December 2022

Thanks Doug!

Wednesday 25th of November 2020

Thank you , this is a really interesting and very helpful article ands we are going to utilise your advice when we get to Chile in a few months

Sunday 6th of December 2020

Thanks Tom and have a great trip! Steph

Everything You Need to Know Before Traveling to Valparaiso

Valparaiso is a port city designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the coast of Chile that is known for its steep hills, funiculars, various eclectic neighborhoods, and art. All these ingredients make it one of the best places to visit in Chile.

Traveltomtom guest writer Danielle from the USA visited Valparaiso and wrote down all her travel tips in this blog.

We live in Philadelphia, PA, which is known for some of USA’s early and important history, the liberty bell, and the Rocky Balboa movies. But one thing many people may not know about Philadelphia is that we have a huge Mural Arts program. Our city is adorned with street art and murals in all of our neighborhoods, and we appreciate and embrace it fully.

So, when I heard about Valparaiso in Chile for the first time and saw that it was a city of murals, I was very intrigued and couldn't wait to visit. I had also read that Valparaiso had one of the biggest, if not THE biggest, fireworks display in South America for New Year’s Eve.  We were traveling in Chile over NYE, and I didn't want to miss out on it!

I had read and heard various stories about safety in Valparaiso, which had me a little nervous, but you can definitely have a safe and enjoyable visit here by following normal safety precautions.

Every single person that we met at any tour, restaurant, car ride, activity, hotel, etc. was incredibly kind, helpful, and wanted us to enjoy our time in “Valpo”.  More info on that throughout this article with everything you need to know before traveling to Valparaiso.

Getting to Valparaiso

Most likely, if you're coming to Valparaiso, you're coming from Santiago.  There are numerous ways to get to Valparaiso from Santiago, it just depends on your finances and comfort level.

Hired Driver

When researching a hired car it was looking to be about $80 - $100 USD per person to have a driver take us from Santiago to Valparaiso. 

Hotel Shuttle

We checked in with our hotel in Santiago and they were able to send a car to get us for $90 USD total.  We took this option as it seemed a lot more realistic.  It’s always a good idea to ask your accommodation for travel advice. After all, locals know best.

Busses run from Santiago to Valparaiso and can be a range of prices. Looks like around $15 - $30 USD is average for this bus ride and will take a little under 2 hours.

If you have a rental car this is also a very straightforward drive and within 1.5 hour you will be in Valparaiso from Santiago. Renting a car in Santiago de Chile shouldn't be too expensive and you can already find rental cars for less than $40 USD per day.

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Many people also choose to visit Valparaiso as part of a day tour from Santiago.  I encourage you to stay a few nights as Valparaiso really has a lot to offer. But if a day tour is the only way, it’s still definitely worth visiting and worth the effort traveling to Valparaiso.

Is it safe to travel to Valparaiso

It’s always a little strange to talk about or “decide” about how safe one place or another is.  I live in a major city in America and I am well aware of how unsafe it is. So, I always take safety warnings with a grain of salt, with a bit of research, and I try to really understand the local people.

I truly did not feel unsafe at all during our entire time visiting Valparaiso, but we also took many safety precautions and had very carefully planned our time here to make sure that we were not taking any risks.

We know that there are risks wherever you choose to travel, and some places are higher risk than others. This should not be a reason to completely disregard a specific destination, because there is risk anywhere you are, even in your home town! It is unfortunate that a few “bad seeds” can give a city the reputation for being unsafe when it is just a minuscule fraction of the percent of an entire population, but it is helpful to know what to expect by doing a little research.

Risk can be mitigated by using common sense and following advice from tourism websites, locals, and others who have recently visited. Here are some things we did that worked out well for us, and some recommendations made by locals along the way.

It could not have been made any clearer that we should not be walking around anywhere after dark. Our hotel told us to Uber to and from dinner our first night, and we ate at the hotel for New Year’s Eve. We were consistently warned that it wouldn't be wise to be on the streets in the evening. Ubers were super quick, easy, and affordable here so there was really no reason at all not to use them.

We were also repeatedly told not to leave the "tourist" sections of the city, which was hard for us because we love to explore and get off the beaten path. But we heeded the advice of those in the know, and in the end had no issues wandering and exploring all of the tourist areas during the day.

The two main touristy areas to spend time in are in the historical area and are called Cerro Concepcion & Cerro Alegre. We were also warned to stay away from the market and many of the various hills, which all have different personalities and local vibes.

A majority of the crime in and around Valparaiso seems to be petty crime and theft like most major cities. However, we were warned of a few more serious incidents that had happened in the recent past, so we tried to stick to all of the "rules" given to us by the locals to ensure we weren't taking any chances.

The same basic rules from all major cities apply here as well:  do not dress flashy, do not wear expensive things, do not call attention to material items you are wearing or carrying.

Another important thing that adds up to your safety is to stay connected when traveling to Valparaiso. Get yourself a local prepaid sim card or e-sim card for Chile. Traveling is much more convenient when enjoying data on your phone. Check out Traveltomtom's complete guide for buying a sim card for Chile .

The Weather 

I am usually so on top of everything when we travel, but for some reason with this location I dropped the ball. I assumed that since it was so close to Santiago and it was on the coast, that during the time we were there it was going to be very hot. Don't make the same mistake I did, Valparaiso is one of those places that has its own special climate.

We were traveling in December, which is Chilean summer, so we assumed it would be hot, but ended up in jeans and sweatshirts most of the time we were there (although we did get an incredibly beautiful day when we went to the beach). You could get great weather during this time of year, but it is best to check for whenever you're traveling and be prepared for anything.

Where to Stay

In my humble opinion, we chose the best hotel possible in Valparaiso. If we didn't choose  Hotel Winebox , we likely would have stayed in one of the more touristy neighborhoods mentioned above. We chose our hotel because it was a destination in itself. We also knew that with the whole “not being out after dark thing”, that we'd be spending more time in the hotel than we usually would on a trip.

Hotel Winebox was perfect for us in every way. The hotel is made entirely of recycled shipping containers and each one has its own origin story! Each room also has its own balcony or patio area overlooking the city and the sea.

The best part is the rooftop bar, it overlooks all of Valparaiso and is the perfect place to have a drink and watch the sunset.  It’s also a wonderful place to enjoy your breakfast in the morning.

We spent New Year’s Eve on the roof of the hotel with many of the other guests, and did a wine tasting with the hotel’s owner/sommelier. It was a New Year’s Eve we'll never forget and an excellent place to try some of the best Chilean wines.

Booking.com

Where to eat

We had quite a few great food experiences during our time in Valpo. I actually wished we'd had another day to try out a few more spots, but we still got a great taste of the city.

La Caperucita y el Lobo

We had dinner at "La Caperucita y el Lobo", which translates to Little Red Riding Hood and the Wolf. This was an excellent meal high up on a hill with amazing city views.

We had our hotel make us a reservation here and also specified that we wanted to sit on the patio, it was beautiful to dine outside overlooking the city.

The food was incredible, we had gnocchi, octopus, pork, samosas, and a nest of pasta.

Delicias Express

Another place we tried and loved was less formal. It was an empanada shop called "Delicias Express" with over 80 varieties of empanada. We tried a few different varieties and wished we'd had more time to go back again!

Cooking Class for dinner

We also took a cooking class, booked through “Getaways & Discoveries South America”, for dinner one night and we were thrilled with the experience. It was in the home of an amazing Chilean couple and was very nearby to our hotel.

We cooked with Al and his wife, and they were such a pleasure to learn from and be around. Al also gives street art tours, other tours around Chile, and is a graffiti artist himself. Their home is lovely and has incredible views over the city.

We learned how to cook a full menu, and got to know Al during our time there. We made our own empanada, a Chilean pebre (which is pretty similar to a salsa), palta reina (which is a stuffed avocado, and we made ours with heart of palm), and pastel de choclo (which is a corn dish that involves meat, corn, eggs, and sugar, and is absolutely delicious).

We also got to make our own pisco sours and enjoyed some great wine to pair with the dinner we created. 

Things to do in Valparaiso

Admire street art.

The most obvious but also amazing thing to do in Valparaiso is admire the endless street art. There are murals and beautiful graffiti literally everywhere you look.

There are also some areas where artists set up and display/sell their work each day and you can enjoy a gallery walk of sorts, strolling down the avenue and admiring all of their beautiful art.

We realized it too late, but our cooking class company also did street art tours. If we will travel to Valparaiso again some day, I would happily take that street art tour with Al as our guide. It is always nice to get to know the stories behind the art and the artists.

Free walking tour

We did a free walking tour in Valparaiso. Our guide was very kind, happy, and informative. He taught us a great deal about the city and its interesting history and architecture, as well as some of the politics.

Of course he also highlighted some of the amazing murals and street artists.

He showed us around the safer tourist hills and showed us where to find the best empanadas.

Look up free walking tours in Valparaiso because there are numerous options and see which one suits you the best.

Visit Galleries

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that Valparaiso is also filled with Art Galleries. Do some research before visiting to see which art gallery suits you, or as you learn more about the artists walking around, see if you can visit their galleries.

Vina Del Mar day trip

We took an Uber over to Vina Del Mar for a morning/early afternoon, and it was delightful. The Uber was about $4 USD and very quick, about 10 minutes ride only.

Arriving in Vina Del Mar, you realize it's quite different from Valpo. Suddenly you see luxury hotels and apartments, chain restaurants, and beautiful gardens. We enjoyed walking along the beach promenade and checking out all the stands.

My husband got an "Italiano Completo", which is a Chilean hotdog absolutely smothered in ketchup, guacamole, and mayo, and I tried some more shrimp empanadas.

We spent a few hours relaxing on the nice, clean beach in the sunshine, and before heading home grabbed a snack at a Greek food truck, which was excellent.

Overall, it is an easy and enjoyable day trip from Valparaiso. If you are more into the beach vibe you could also base here and head into Valparaiso for a day trip. 

Find a Rooftop bar or restaurant

Find a rooftop to eat, drink, or hang out on. There are so many beautiful spots in Valparaiso that overlook the city and the sea, it is definitely worth your time to seek them out. We were lucky that our hotel provided that great space for us, but if your hotel doesn't have incredible views, you still have so many options for great food, drinks, and views.

I have already mentioned the rooftops at our hotel Winebox , and some of the places we ate. One more spot that we didn’t make it to, but looked incredible was “Fauna”. I also read that the food here is wonderful and if we’d had another night in Valparaiso I likely would have tried to book a table here.

Fauna is also a hotel, so if winebox isn’t your vibe, this looks like another excellent place to check out. 

Visit the Casablanca Valley for Wine Tasting

We toured the Casablanca Valley on our way from Valparaiso to the Santiago Airport on our last day. It was a perfect way to get back for our evening flight. You can also make a day trip to the valley as it is about half way between Valparaiso and Santiago.

We got to try 3 different wineries and we loved them all! The Casablanca Valley is known for white wines and the area reminded us a lot of wine country out in California.

We visited Villard Fine Wines, Bodegas RE, and Viñamar. We loved all 3 for different reasons!

Villard Fine Wines felt like a traditional tour and tasting, they had the most beautiful outdoor area to relax and sip and the wines were wonderful.

Bodegas RE was one of my favorite wineries I’ve ever been to. It was so creative and the blends that they made were so much fun.

We had a tasting lunch at Viñamar and enjoyed having the wines paired with excellent food!

I highly recommend visiting Casablanca if you have time while you’re in Chile.

I am sure some of the above tips for traveling to Valparaiso were helpful. If you have any more questions please leave me a comment below and we are more than happy to help you out.

This blog was written by Traveltomtom guest writer Daniella, check out her Instagram account @planformedani .

Enjoy your trip to Valparaiso, Chile!

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Valparaíso, Chile: The Complete Guide

Javier Ghersi / Getty Images

Artsy, jumbled, and colorful, Valparaíso is a rainbow of buildings, graffiti murals, past splendor, and present-day bohemian pluck. It’s laid back but not lazy, artistic but not pretentious. The city used to be the stomping grounds for Pablo Neruda and the most important port between the Pacific and Atlantic oceans prior to the building of the Panama Canal, and it honors its past without clinging to it. When you walk around it, you get the feeling of a city reinvented by artists and students, which espouses a youthful spirit, despite its being founded in 1536.

Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Valparaíso consists of two parts: El Plan, the flat part of the city by the docks, and the hilly part with 42 cerros (hills). Many of the more notable restaurants and works of art are located within the hills, most easily reached on foot or via a funicular, a diagonal elevator. Beaches are easily accessible via bus or train rides along the coast, and fresh fish and seafood available for a filling lunch by the docks. Bring an open mind, sturdy walking shoes, and a sense of curiosity. Locals are generally helpful, friendly, and willing to share their own stories of their beloved city, which they call "Valpo."

What to Do in Valparaíso

See street art: Valparaíso is a major street art hub known throughout the world. Chilean artists as well as international ones have painted many a mural, political message, seascape, or other imaginative scene on its walls, stairs, and sidewalks. Join a street art tour to learn some of the history and see some of the most famous pieces, like the Beethoven Street piano stairs or the "We Are Happies Not Hippies" mural. Alternatively, you can look up specific pieces and go on your own, or simply pick a hill and wander around its streets to see what you find.

Visit museums: The most famous museums in the region are La Sebastiana and Isla Negra, both former homes of the Nobel Prize-winning poet and diplomat Pablo Neruda. While Isla Negra is about an hour’s drive away from Valpo, La Sebastiana stands in the city itself and was even a subject of one of Neruda’s poems. La Sebastiana contains many of his original possessions, including an arm chair where he wrote and read. Managed by the Fundacion de Pablo Neruda , entry is on a first-come, first-serve basis and costs the equivalent of about $9. Other museums in the city include: the Museo de Historia Natural de Valparaíso, the Palacio Baburizza, and the Museo Maritime Natural.

Ride the funiculars: Built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries to ease the commute of residents walking up and down the city’s 40-plus hills, 16 remain of the original 30 funiculars, and currently, seven are operational. (Imagine a single train car going up a hill at an incline, and that is essentially what a funicular is.) Hop on one or several, as each ride costs less than a dollar. Take the El Peral Funicular to explore Cerro Alegre, or ride the Cordillera Funicular to see Valpo’s first observatory.

Go to the Beach: Valpo has its own beaches, like Playa Torpederas, but the more relaxing and pristine beaches are a bus ride out of town. Consider going to nearby Viña del Mar’s Caleta Abarca Beach, perfect for sun bathing in warm, golden sand next to cool, clean ocean water. Further north, about an hour away by bus, upscale Reñaca Beach is known for its parties, beach sports, and club scene. While the weather might be warm, expect cold water (similar to California beaches) throughout the year due to the Humboldt Current.

Attend a festival: On New Year’s Eve, fireworks are set off from 15 points along Valparaíso’s coast at the stroke of midnight, starting the new year with the largest fireworks display in all of South America. Any high point in the city will do for watching the show, but find a spot early, as many people begin waiting around 5 p.m. Street vendors sell snacks and booze before and during the show throughout the city. After the fireworks finish, check out block parities with DJs spinning in the streets and pasajes . Another major party on Valpo's shores is the Summer Ink Festival, which combines music and tattoo art. Listen to Chilean punk and rock bands, and see American, Colombian, and Brazilian tattoo artists in action at the tattoo exhibit.

What to Eat and Drink in Valparaíso

Fresh catches of fish and seafood come in daily, making them the main plates to try in town. The nearby vineyards of the Casablanca Valley supply Valpo with sauvignon blanc, chardonnay, and pinot noir, all of which thrive in central Chile’s cool climate. Other notable dishes to sample not connected to seafood are the chorrillana (sausage, kebab, and steak on top of fries), ajiaco (a leftover barbecue stew said to cure hangovers) , and the chacarero (green bean sandwich).

Given the long-held international appeal of the city and its bohemian vibe, there’s also spots for vegetarians, health-conscious restaurants, gourmet bistros, and international food joints, specializing in ramen, Thai dishes, fresh juice, macaroons, and more.

Fresh fish: Reinata (pomfret) and merluza (hake) are the two most popular fish in Chile. Both soft and white, the pomfret is milder than the hake. Purchase them directly from fisherman at Caleta Portales, the main fish market. Another popular spot, Caleta el Membrillo, is a fishing cove with plenty of restaurants serving the catch of the day. To visit a farmer’s market, head to Mercado Cardonal, which houses seafood restaurants in its upper level and fruit, veg, and cheese sellers on the first floor.

Seafood empanadas : A classic Chilean food, Chilean empanadas are much larger than their Argentine counterparts. Try traditional flavors of meat, chicken, or corn, or opt for one with fruits of the sea. Empanadas del marisco (seafood empanadas) get stuffed with mussels and white fish and are perfect to split with a sightseeing buddy. Stop by Delicias Express to taste one or several of their 84 flavors of empanadas or look for them being sold by street vendors or in traditional Chilean restaurants throughout the city.

Ceviche: From fishermen’s carts to the most luxurious of Valparaíso’s restaurants, fresh ceviche is everywhere in this city. Buy it in plastic cups at Caleta Portales from the fishermen themselves or head to El Perral to pair it with an ahi sour.

Pisco sours: This quintessential Chilean cocktail is made of pisco, tangy lemon, and frothy egg whites. Enjoy one with a view at Hotel Brighton, nestled on the edge of Cerro Concepion. Another popular spot is Bar Cinzano, one of the oldest bars in the city, known as much for its cocktails as its nightly live music. If you want to bar hopping, head to Cumming Street where you can try pisco sours, regional wine, and craft beer.

Where to Stay in Valparaíso

Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepcion are where most tourists base themselves. These neighborhoods contain some of the most famous street art murals in the city, a wide range of restaurants, some solid bars, and plenty of cute shops selling artisan wares. Colorful, well-preserved buildings perch on steep inclines, meaning you’ll burn some calories on your way to and from your hotel (or take the funiculars or buses). Both hills contain accommodation for all budgets, including hostels, Airbnbs, and luxury hotels set in restored mansions. Many of the more upscale hotels have an attached restaurant and include breakfast in the booking price.

Ask for a room with large windows and views of the bay. Check with your hotel about air conditioning and parking as both are not so easily accessible in these neighborhoods.

Getting Around Valparaíso

Valpo has tons of minibuses that are super cheap. You can go to bus stops, but it's not necessary to catch one. Drivers will stop anywhere along their route as long as you stick your arm out and flag them down. The “O” bus (also labeled as the 612) is a popular option as it runs parallel to the ocean, has amazing views, and stops near many of the city's most visited spots, like Cerro Alegre and the Congreso Nacional. Plan to pay the equivalent of $0.50 per ride.

Valparaíso does not have an airport or long-distance train but can be easily reached from Santiago by bus or car. Rent a car and drive yourself or check out Tur Bus or Pullman Bus for bus schedules and prices. Alternatively, just go to Terminal Alameda at Universidad de Santiago metro station and hop on the next available bus. The drive time is about an hour and a half and costs around $11. Buses run daily, every 15 minutes from 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

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The Daily Packers

The ultimate valparaiso travel guide.

• November 7, 2019
• Chile , South America , Valparaiso

Valparaiso Travel Guide

Valparaiso is a major city, seaport and education center in Chile. It is located 120km away from Santiago. The city was founded in 1536, have approx. 285 000 inhabitants. The city is a late waking up one and everything open at 10am. Restaurants, Shops, coffee shops, almost everything.

Mapping the day

Where to stay

We stayed in a cool hostel in Paseo Dimalow, which is the most touristic spot in town. The hostel has music styled room and a great view over the city.

Free Walking tour

We went for the free walking tour that started in Plaza Anibal Pinto which was just 5min away from our hostel or 2min by the funicular. Unfortunately, we were only 2 and the FWT required a minimum of 3 people.

The English guide still offered us to do the tour, but we decided not to because it would mean a bigger tip that we would have given. We simply asked him for the map of the tour and self-guided ourselves along the tour.

You can check-out online as there is different tours with different topics.

Hang around

Once done with our self-guided tour, we strolled around the neighborhood near the “Paseo Dimalow”. Losing ourselves from street to street following the arts and wibes around us.

We found ourselves in a photography shop called “Fabirka” where they make original painting pictures and where we bought ourselves a souvenir while learning about the technic they used. while listening Maggie Rogers playlist.

We then kept hanging around the street of Valpo while stopping at shops and places of interests. Sometimes using the funicular, sometimes the stairs…

La Sebastiana

Our next stop was La Sebastiana, one of the houses of Pablo Neruda (a Chilean poet, diplomat and politician). The house was converted in a Museum and offers beautiful view on Valpo. Moreover, you have an audio guide to discover the life of the famous poet in his house.

The entrance fees are 7 000 CLP per person.

End of the day

After learning about a famous local person, we walked down to Plaza Victoria and back to the Dimalow neighborhood where we stopped at Color coffee for a Pisco frutal Kiwi and Pisco frutal raspberry.

And to finish the day, we bought some cake and returned to our hostel to enjoy with a view.

Recommendation

How long to stay in Valpo? Well for us one full day was enough and we wouldn’t stay longer.

Always bring cash with you, all places don’t accept credit card and ATM/bank are not easy to find.

“You don’t have to be rich to travel well.” – Eugene Fodor

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Visit Valparaiso: A Colourful Travel Guide to Chile’s Bohemian Port City

If you’ve been feeling the travel blues, Valparaiso will wash them away!

I have to admit, I’ve kind of been dragging my feet a little bit these last few weeks. The fast travel pace was starting to wear on me and there were mornings when I was craving a little bit of time in front of my computer as opposed to a day filled with sightseeing in a new locale, but Valparaiso got me out of that slump in no time.

It’s kind of hard to want to stay indoors when the city is an explosion of colour splattered across every building. There are cool murals, bright walls, unexpected stencils, cheery window shutters, and fun mosaics to catch your eye at every turn.

Here’s a look at some of the pictures I took on that trip, as well as some ideas of things to do in Valparaiso if you ever end up in this bohemian port city!

Our Valparaiso travel guide for independent travelers ! 

THINGS TO DO IN VALPARAISO

Start the day with brunch.

If you’re like me and you just can’t function before you’ve gotten some food in your system, then I recommend heading over to El Desayunador . They specialize in breakfast and meriendas (kind of like afternoon tea ), and they also have some pretty nice cakes on their menu. FYI: In South America it’s perfectly acceptable to have cake for breakfast, so feast to your heart’s content!

Ride up and down the funiculars.

Valparaiso is a city made up of hills. Our guide told us there are a total of 42 hills (though some locals insist there are 45) and that means a whole lot of walking! To make getting around Valparaiso a little easier, the city has a series of  ascensores  or funiculars that you can ride for a small fee. The best know of these is  Ascensor Concepción  which dates back to 1883! It is the oldest one in the city and it’s a very rickety (albeit safe) ride. Another fun one is Ascensor Reina Victoria, which gives you that iconic Valparaiso postcard shot once you reach the top.

Take a free walking tour of Valparaiso.

If you want to see the city, but you don’t quite know where to begin, I would recommend joining one of the free walking tours. There are 2 main companies that lead tours across the city and those are Free Tour Valparaiso  and Tours 4 Tips . This is a great way to get some insider knowledge, familiarize yourself with the neighbourhoods, and track down some of the best street art in town.

Go in search of street art.

This is the thing to do in Valparaiso! I personally think the best hills to visit if you want to see some cool murals are Cerro Concepción, Cerro Alegre, and Cerro Bellavista. The first two are the most frequented by tourists, and the third one is home to Museo a Cielo Abierto (Open Air Museum) which is a circuit featuring various murals.

Take a boat tour of the port.

Valparaiso is a port city so you can’t say you’ve visited until you’ve gone down to the harbour. Tours are 30 minutes long and they depart from Muelle Prat as soon as they get a boatful (usually around 25 passengers). The cost is 3,000 Chilean Pesos and you have a guide to point out the sights and talk about the history of the port. You go past giant container ships, tug boats, and navy vessels, so it’s a pretty cool outing.

Befriend all the dogs. 

As a dog-lover who misses her grumpy old Lhasa-Poo back home, I’m always happy to come across dogs who are up for a little pet and a scratch, and the dogs in Valparaiso were just the friendliest! There are a lot of strays roaming the streets (locals seem to feed them and leave little containers with waters outside businesses and homes), and some of them will latch on to you and join you for a portion of your walk. We had a whole slew of ‘regulars’ who joined our free walking tour – they clearly knew the guide and that there was a stop at an empanada shop!

Visit Pablo Neruda’s quirky home. 

Pablo Neruda is Chile’s most famed poet and writer and he had 3 homes in Chile , one of which is in Valparaiso. Neruda’s home, better known as La Sebastiana , sits at the top of Cerro Florida , and let me warn you, it is a steep walk to the top. The home is 5 stories high and it has a pretty eclectic decor (Neruda was an avid art collector). You get individual audio guides inside that give you a glimpse at the writer’s life and his home. Admission to La Sebastiana  is 6,000 Chilean Pesos per person.

Run up the famed piano steps.

When it comes to Valparaiso’s street art, one of the best known pieces in the city is that of a staircase painted to resemble piano keys. “Everyone in Valparaiso has a Facebook profile pic on these steps!” our guide told us. These famed steps were painted by a musician who wanted to have a really cool album cover, so he decided to create some art of his own. Now here’s the kicker, these steps have been around for a few years and every once in a while they need a fresh coat of paint, so the artist was painting these steps a while ago, when the police caught him with a paintbrush in hand and had him arrested! It turns out that street art in Valparaiso is illegal (kind of hard to believe!) and if you’re caught painting a non-commissioned piece without permission, you can face a fine or even jail time.

Sample some of the best gelato in the world.

Emporio La Rosa is an ice cream shop located in Anibal Pinto Square. It boasts a bright pink sign that reads, “You are in one of the 25 best ice cream shops in the world,” so that might be reason enough to grab yourself a cone with a scoop…or three.

Check out the cool architecture.

Valparaiso has a really unique mix of architecture including a mish-mash of British and Eastern European influences. Some of the coolest homes to check out include Palacio Baburizza, a mansion built by a Croatian businessman that now houses the Fine Arts Museum; Casa Crucero, a five-story house built to look like a ship; and Palacio Astoreca, an imposing Victorian home turned boutique hotel .

Take a day trip to Viña del Mar.

If I had to describe Viña del Mar to you, I would tell you it’s Valparaiso’s polar opposite. Valparaiso is colourful, creative, and a little rough around the edges, whereas Viña del Mar is monochromatic, chic, and a bit wealthier. It’s a super easy day trip or a nice weekend escape if you have a bit more time. The two cities are only 8 kilometres apart and you can easily get there with the above ground metro system that goes along the beach .

Safety in Valparaiso

Valparaiso has a reputation for being a rough-and-tumble kind of place, but I do think some of the guidebooks and online forums paint a rather extreme picture.

We ended up staying in the plateau which is the commercial and business district of the city, and we did this after reading so many warning that the hills were not safe. In retrospect, I wish I hadn’t followed this advice. The plateau was fine but it also lacked the spirit that you see up on the hills. Certain hills may not be considered safe, but places like Cerro Concepción and Cerro Alegre cater to tourists and they have lots of cute B&B’s, cafes, shops and restaurants – and we met so many travellers staying there! They are not the secluded and dangerous neighbourhoods they are made out to be.

Just exercise caution: don’t walk down alleys or staircases if you can’t see what’s at the end, don’t wander around unfamiliar areas after dark, and don’t dangle a flashy camera around your neck (put it away when you’re not using it).

Where to stay in Valparaiso

Here’s a selection of properties to fit all budgets on your trip to Valparaiso:

Luxury:  Hotel Palacio Astoreca ,  Hotel Acontraluz ,  Zerohotel

Midrange:  Hotel Da Vinci Valparaiso ,  Gervasoni Hotel Boutique ,  Hotel Fauna

Hostels:  Hostal Voyage Hostel ,  Hostal De Visita ,  Casa Volante Hostal

Have you been to Valparaiso? Are there any other things to do in Valparaiso that you’d recommend?

12 Comments

I really enjoyed Valparaiso. Unfortunately I only spent one day there but will hopefully come back in the future. The street art and the vibe of the city is just special.

I know a lot of people do it as a day trip since it’s so close to Santiago. Hopefully you’ll get to revisit and see some of the new murals. 🙂

You have put together such a cool guide here. I definitely feel like my best friend just let me in on all of the secrets of Valparaiso. It looks like such a colorful place!

Aww, I’m glad you enjoyed the guide Amanda! I’m happy to share some of Valparaiso’s not-so-secret secrets. 😉

The market is awesome … stayed steps away from the action at a place called Muffin Hostel … fresh fruits and vegetables everyday for breakfast, lunch and dinner!

Also, the lower part of the city has a grit that grows on you. Loved my time in Valparaiso (was there during the winter [August], but the sunny days had temperatures in the 20’s Celsius!)

I noticed there were markets everywhere! It was kind of cool how people set up makeshift stands on any and every sidewalk.

Audrey, excellent write-up and great pictures as always. Love that shot of the stairs that said “We are Hippies, We are Happies” LOL

That was one of my favourite murals too. I wanted to get a picture at the top of the steps, but the girls in the photo were in a pretty deep conversation.

Would love contact info on a good guide for Valparaiso , we will be there in January. I hope weather is OK!

Loved reading your post and seeing the great pictures. My husband and I will be there at the end of November as part of a 3.5 month trip to parts of S.A. and your post makes me feel I want to go NOW!

December 24th I will be driving from Santiago to Valparaiso, spend a day there and come back on the same day. Can you pls suggest me key spots that I can cover in a day? Should I park the car in any public parking and walk around the place or should I drive to every individual place? Is there any safety measure that I have to take? Thanks in advance.

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Valparaiso Chile Travel: 17 Fascinating Things to Do in Valparaiso

We were instantly captivated by Valparaiso and nearby Vina del Mar. While we found amazing things to do in Valparaiso Chile, it was the vibrant, colourful atmosphere that captured our hearts.

From unique street art and graffiti to exceptional views created by a city built on so many steep hills, we were hooked. Combine that with beaches, and you have two cities that effortlessly blend history, art, and natural beauty.

Staying in a neighbourhood apartment in Vina del Mar, we also got a taste of local culture. Jeff and I met plenty of locals, took free city tours, and did our best to explore as much as we could. Every corner seemed to hold a story waiting to be discovered.

Our only regret, a common one for us, was not having more time for our Valparaiso Chile travel.

Join us as we take you through the 17 unmissable things to do in Valparaiso and Vina del Mar, ensuring that you make the most of your visit to this vibrant coastal gem.

Top things to do in Valparaiso or Viña del Mar

• Stroll through the hills of Valparaiso: Cerro Concepción and Cerro Alegre

Take a trip on a 100-year-old funicular

• Visit Pablo Neruda’s La Sebastiana, the Cultural Centre, and a cemetery

Take a cooking class

Wander through the mercado cardonal, relax at plaza del descanso, explore castle hill in viña del mar.

• Relax at one of the beaches in Valparaiso Chile (or Viña del Mar)

Take an Instagram shot at the Flower Clock in Viña del Mar

Viña del mar and valparaiso chile travel map.

The suggested stops in Viña del Mar and Valparaiso Chile are featured on the map in red. Click the expand / collapse icon in the upper left corner of the map for the details.

Let Chile inspire you

Things to do in Valparaiso Chile

A colourful city set on multiple hills, what really sets it apart from anywhere we have been before is the street art. Talented artists come from all over the world and mix with locals creating a living mural that we found so fascinating that we had to write an entire article just about the Valparaiso street art .

And if you don’t have time to hike around all 42 hills in the city or just want to hit the boldest first, head up Cerro Concepción. It’s one of several highlights among the things to do in Valparaiso we are recommending below.

Stroll through Cerro Concepción

A Bohemian Delight

Nestled in the hills, Cerro Concepción (Conception Hill) is a captivating blend of colour, creativity, and history. Cobbled streets adorned with vivid murals and vibrant houses were this photographer’s paradise.

It seemed that every wall tells a story, and we could have spent weeks exploring all the street art and possibly never finished. Cafés and boutiques line the alleys, providing the perfect backdrop for our leisurely exploration.

It was a treat for us, as a couple as well as for families with curious children.

A Ride to Remember

We took this vintage funicular up the hill and were rewarded with the street art you saw just above.

This is Ascensor El Peral, what we were told at the time was the oldest elevator in Valparaiso. However, our current research shows that it is only one of the oldest, and that title belongs to the nearby Ascensor Concepción.

Either one, however, would be a treat as we rose up to the panorama of Valparaiso’s colourful rooftops and the shimmering Pacific Ocean.

Hang on as you take the public bus up Cerro Alegre

A Hilly Adventure

A unique and memorable moment on our visit, we took a roller coaster ride on a public bus as it expertly wound its way up the often steep, sometimes narrow, and always winding roads to the top of Cerro Alegre.

To be honest, it’s not that far, as we walked back down, but the bus itself is an adventure we won’t soon forget.

Cerro Alegre is another haven for art enthusiasts. According to our guide, the mosaics at the top were completed in 2015 by volunteers. Behind it, we found another fabulous view.

From there, we slowly walked down the hill as part of our free city tour of Valparaiso .

Pablo Neruda’s La Sebastiana

Poetic Reverie

One of the things we didn’t do was to delve into the world of Nobel laureate Pablo Neruda at La Sebastiana, his Valparaiso home.

It’s been described to us as a place where every nook exudes the poet’s eccentricity and charm. The house is a treasure trove of curiosities, each room a reflection of Neruda’s unique personality.

As it sits on Cerro Alegre, we were not surprised to read that the vista from the terrace is mesmerising – the vast expanse of the ocean contrasts with the city’s intricate details.

Cultural Centre, cemetery, and views as we strolled down Cerro Alegre

Creative Haven

Walking down the hill wasn’t nearly as dramatic as our nerve-wracking bus ride up to the top. In fact, we were better able to enjoy the ever-changing views at a slower pace. Some of the highlights on the way down included:

• Parque Cultural de Valparaiso This cultural centre hosts exhibitions, performances, and artistic events in a historic prison complex.
• Cemetery We saw three historic cemeteries on the way down but only entered one. Simply named N°1 and N°2, these two cemeteries were for Catholics only, whereas the Cementerio de Disidentes was built for all faiths.
• Views Varied spectacular views of the city seemed to appear around every corner.

Taste the Culture

One of my favourite things we did in Valparaiso was to take a Chilean cooking class . After choosing our menu and then shopping for the ingredients (see section below), we prepared several traditional dishes, creating a complete meal.

Not only was the class fun, but we also learned about some of the unique ingredients that define the local flavours. If you want to take the same great class we did, you can reserve your cooking class here .

Culinary Delights

In addition to learning to cook delicious local treats, we also got a chance to explore Mercado Cardonal , a fresh foods market ranging from freshly caught seafood to vibrant produce. Here, our chef instructor became our guide, pointing out different local fruits and vegetables, shopping for our class based on the dishes we had chosen, and offering basic safety advice.

Similar to the reminders we have heard almost daily since arriving in Chile (and general safety tips for travelling in South America ): Keep your bags close, camera and mobile phone out of sight except when you are using them, and always be aware of your surroundings.

Serene Respite

Covered in mosaic tiles and a bit of street art, Plaza del Descanso (translated: the Resting Square) offers a peaceful respite in the midst of Valparaiso’s lively streets. That is, during the day. In the evening, according to our guide, it’s a major young people’s hang-out.

We are not sure exactly what goes on here, but as a result, the city now empties the square and closes the gate at 9 pm, which is quite early in Latin America.

Nearby Viña del Mar, Chile

Coastal Excursion

We opted to stay in Viña del Mar and rented what looked like a lovely apartment in a tall building with stunning views of the city. While the height and views were there, our love for the place pretty much ended beyond this point.

Without too much detail, we will just say that we needed a flashlight to move through the dark hallways, and on the day we were leaving, luggage in hand, the elevators were all out, and we had to hike down way too many stairs. It was one of many moments we were glad we travelled carry on only!

Despite that, we loved Viña del Mar and didn’t regret our choice. The beautiful coastal drive between Valparaiso and Viña del Mar takes less than 15 minutes, and every minute is enjoyable.

Majestic Overlook

Castle Hill (Cerro Castillo) in Viña del Mar stands as a testament to the town’s rich history. We walked up here on a free city tour of Viña del Mar , and our guide pointed out three main highlights (Note: our free tour no longer runs, we know little about the one we linked here):

• Palacio Presidential (Presidential Palace), where foreign dignitaries stay when they come to Chile. The palace was not open for tours when we were there, so we could only get as far as the pink gate. Tours are currently available on Thursdays at 3 and 4 pm, and visitors must register.
• We viewed a historic castle atop a nearby part of the hill with an interesting political history. It is now used by Carabineros de Chile.
• For me, the highlight is the breathtaking panoramic view encompassing the sea, the city, and beyond.

Relax at Playa Acapulco (one of the best beaches in Valparaiso Chile area)

Sun-Kissed Serenity

If you have come here for a little sun and sand, you won’t be disappointed.

Playa Acapulco in Viña del Mar is the perfect place to relax on golden sands, take a refreshing dip, stroll along the pier, or simply unwind with a good book. The inviting waves and serene atmosphere make it ideal for families or anyone looking for a tranquil escape.

From what we saw, we believe it’s the nicest beach in Valparaiso or Viña del Mar. It’s a quick retreat into relaxation

Floral Splendour

The Viña del Mar Flower Clock is a delightful creation that blends nature and artistry. This living clock is adorned with a variety of flowers, transforming timekeeping into a colourful spectacle.

While it’s a serene spot to enjoy a leisurely stroll and appreciate the natural beauty that graces the town, I think it’s more often used as an Instagram spot. I know we couldn’t resist taking our photos in front of it, even though our selfie isn’t good enough to share.

A few more things to do in Vina del Mar

Cultural Exploration

• A culture hub, the Municipal Theatre in the city’s main square hosts artistic theatre from classic musicals to ballet. Plaza Vergara is also home to the annual Festival de Viña del Mar.
• The Museo Fonck is a window into Chile’s indigenous past. Explore fascinating exhibits that showcase artefacts, mummies, and insights into the country’s pre-Columbian cultures.
• Temporarily closed, we found the Parroquia Nuestra Señora de Dolores to be a lovely photo opportunity. While construction began in the late 1800s, it wasn’t completed until 1912.
• Quito Vergara is the place to go for outdoor concerts, and it was being set up for one when we stopped by in the daytime. Capacity is 6,000 people.

Which is better: Valparaiso or Viña del Mar?

Comparing my visits to Valparaiso and Viña del Mar was like stepping into two distinct worlds.

Valparaiso’s bohemian streets, adorned with vibrant murals, felt like wandering through a dynamic art gallery. Exploring Cerro Alegre and Concepción was a journey into history and creativity, with each corner revealing unique stories.

On the other hand, Viña del Mar’s charm rested in its serene beaches and elegant architecture. Its well-kept parks were perfect for leisurely strolls, and the coastal ambience was incredibly calming.

Valparaiso embraced urban vibrancy and artistic energy, while Viña del Mar offered coastal tranquillity and refined beauty – a contrast that enriched our journey with diverse experiences.

Tips for getting to and exploring Valparaiso or Viña del Mar

• We find driving in Chile to be pretty easy. We took a road trip from La Serena to Valparaiso and then continued to Santiago. As we do in almost every country we travel to, we use Rentalcars to find the best options and reserve our vehicle. Reserve your rental car here .
• If you prefer to have someone else do the driving, there are several optional ways for how to get from Santiago to Valparaiso .
• If you are not comfortable driving on steep, narrow, winding streets, you might want to avoid self-driving in much of Valparaiso. You can do this with public transportation, a private guide , or a day tour from Santiago .
• Consider using local buses and trams for an authentic experience while moving around the cities. And don’t miss the adventure of a public bus ride up Cerro Alegre.
• Learning a few basic Spanish phrases can go a long way in enhancing your interactions with locals.
• Try traditional Chilean dishes like empanadas, ceviche, and seafood. Explore local markets for fresh produce and street food. Or better still, take a cooking class like we did.
• While Valparaiso or Viña del Mar are generally safe for tourists, exercise standard safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.
• If you haven’t been to Chile before, be sure to start with these Chilean travel tips .

Save on your trip with these resources

These are our go-to companies when we travel. We believe this list to be the best in each category. You can’t go wrong using them on your trip too.

• Flights : we use Expedia for the best and cheapest flight options.
• Accommodations: we use Booking.com (hotels), VRBO (self-contained), or Hostelworld (budget).
• Cars (gas or electric): we use RentalCars to search for deals and dealer ratings.
• Motorcycles : we have heard good things about BikesBooking .
• Campervans or Motorhomes : we use Campstar where Albom Adventures readers get a 3% discount.
• Private guides : we love the private guides at Tours by Locals .
• Travel Insurance: while not required, we always opt for travel insurance and start at InsureMyTrip to compare coverage plans.

Check out our travel resources page for more companies that we use when you travel.

Save for later

If you enjoyed this article on the best things to do in Valparaiso Chile, please share it on social media and save it for later on Pinterest.

Which of these things to do in Valparaiso Chile will you do first?

More from South America you might also like …

Visiting Iguazu Falls: Intense Experience in 2 Countries (Argentina and Brazil)

South American Street Art: Bold, Colourful, Powerful and Eclectic

Recoleta Cemetery in Buenos Aires: Artistic or Eerie?

Argentinian Sweets: Our Favourite Desserts in Argentina

Photo Credits:

All photos on this page are either shot by our team and watermarked as such or stock images from Depositphotos .

About Rhonda Albom

Capturing the essence of travel through photography, Rhonda Albom is the primary author and photographer at Albom Adventures. She is an American expat based in New Zealand. She travels the world with her husband.

Reader Interactions

September 14, 2023 at 3:16 am

Ahh, it’d be so fun to take a cooking class there! I’d definitely not be brave enough to drive here but would love to visit and explore someday! I love all the vibrant colors!

September 12, 2023 at 2:43 am

Thank you for this wonderful post about Valparaiso Chile. It’s informative and detailed, and made me want to take the entire family there today! The photos and pros/cons of the places really added to the story-telling. What an adventure!

Gladis Morales

September 11, 2023 at 8:48 pm

Love the colors and the vibe! Never been to Chile and this inspired me to add it on my travel list. Thanks for sharing your insights and recommendations!

September 11, 2023 at 7:41 am

Wow, I love the idea of the funicular and getting a view of Valparaiso’s colourful rooftops!

September 10, 2023 at 9:08 pm

I’ve never heard Valparaiso Chile before reading this! Looks like an awesome place to explore all the local streets. Thanks for sharing this listicle of top things to do!

Gabby Leopard

September 10, 2023 at 6:40 pm

Valparaiso looks like an interesting place to visit. There seems to be a good variation of things to do. That beach looks beautiful with the golden sand.

September 10, 2023 at 11:08 am

I love all the colors and vibes. Chile is literally on the opposite side of the globe from me so never managed to plan unfortunately, but it’s so fascinating.

Alex+J.+Cavanaugh

September 9, 2023 at 11:54 pm

Very colorful, even without street art. The elevator is cool. Kind of like a cog railroad.

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11 Top Things to Do in Valparaíso, Chile—the Colorful Culture Capital

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Valparaíso is a port city in Chile known for its street art, brightly colored houses, steep hillsides, and vibrant culture. Called the “jewel of the Pacific,” Valparaíso, Chile is a popular tourist destination offering appeal and a bohemian side of life in the country. There are a lot of fun things to do in Valparaíso, Chile.

Also called the “San Francisco of South America” by the sailors who once arrived in the port, the nickname certainly fits. Navigating the city means constantly walking up steep hills or down them, though there are old and creaky funiculars to help with some of the burn climbing them.

The benefit of the steep hills is there are lots of lookouts or miradors at every turn. You can enjoy the views of this interesting and unique city. It has the feel of a fishing village with an interesting and colorful side.

Valpo, as it’s often called by locals and tourists alike, is no stiff city. It’s the casual and laid-back neighbor of Santiago, the capital city. They are only an hour and a half away by bus or car but couldn’t be more different.

I’ll be honest—by the way, people absolutely gush about this city, I had my expectation set way too high. I arrived a bit baffled trying to see the charm in the heavily graffitied homes.

The earthquake that hit right when we were at the coast didn’t help my impression. However, go beneath the surface, keep your expectations in check, and enjoy as it’ll surprise you. Valparaíso’s definitely a must-see when you go to Chile.

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About Valparaíso, Chile

Spanish explorers arrived in Valparaíso in 1536 and it was named after the ship commander’s hometown of Valparaíso de Arriba, Spain (Valley of Paradise). We learned during a walking tour that the settlement was never actually a founded city however, it grew due to its location. The “greater Valparaíso” region is the second-largest metropolitan area in Chile.

It quickly became the main seaport in Chile and a major stopover for all ships traveling between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. All ships to the Americas had to pass through it to refuel before the Panama Canal passageway was built. It saw a golden age in the 19th century as a result.

The opening of the Panama Canal dealt a serious blow to the city’s economy. Valparaíso went through a revitalization effort when people started to move out due to the decreasing need for the port. This paved the way for artists and cultural entrepreneurs to move into the city’s hillside historic districts and for them to attract tourists. Now, Valparaíso is a popular tourist destination and is receiving growing attention from cruises as well.

In 2003, the historic quarter of Valparaíso was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. According to UNESCO, “the Historic Quarter of the Seaport City of Valparaíso represents an extraordinary example of the industrial-age heritage associated with the international sea trade of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.”

Earthquakes in and Around Valparaíso

You might expect that someone who has traveled as often as I have would learn that Chile is subject to a lot of earthquakes. You would be wrong. I truly had no idea about it until the earthquake hit. It was an 8.3 .

It was our second day in Valparaíso and the city was buzzing with excitement for the Independence Day celebration. We decided to go to Plaza Sotomayor, right near our hotel, for a celebratory show.

Around 45 minutes into the show, the earthquake hit. I have only been in an earthquake once and it felt nothing like this. In fact, we weren’t really sure what was going on. It felt like someone was intermittently pushing my chair.

Then we noticed people kept looking back towards the water. After maybe 30 seconds, we realized what was happening. We later learned that five years earlier, an earthquake and a tsunami hit not far from Valparaíso and caused significant damage.

We were evacuated to higher ground, and when we got to the tsunami safe zone, an aftershock hit, driving us higher. It was a crazy long night, but we were ok following the rather harrowing experience. You can r ead all about it in this post about the earthquake .

I would still recommend visiting Valparaíso. However, I recommend NOT staying by the water as we did. And, inquire about the evacuation procedures where you stay so you don’t learn you were locked out of your hotel at 1 in the morning! Also, it’s a good idea to research things like this before traveling somewhere so you’re better prepared than we were!

Things to Do in Valparaíso, Chile

If you want to get to know Valparaíso, head out on foot. The best way to get to see this city is by walking around and wandering the narrow and steep streets. Step a little off the main roads and you to see a whole different side of this city.

Go on a Walking Tour

One of the best ways to learn about a new city you’re visiting and to learn how to navigate it is with a tour. I love free walking tours and have found them generally to be quite good. And it makes sense, as you’re paying a tip for a great tour but not paying a standard fee, so they really have to work for it.

There are a number of great free tour options. Civitas and Tours4Tips look great and you’ll see some others as well.

Wander the streets for artwork and explore the local squares. Learn the history of this interesting city and how to navigate the hills by funicular. There are a lot of interesting places to visit and getting a local guide is a great way to do that.

Ride the Many Funiculars

The first funicular was built in Valparaíso in 1883 to help navigate the 42 hills of the city. Today, there are 9 funiculars (acensors) in operation in Valparaíso. There were up to 30 at one time, though many were pulled from use as they require modernization. 7 are in the process of being restored and may be available for use in the future.

When you see the ones that are in use, you’ll be thankful for the ones that got pulled! Though, they are still fun to ride. It may be a mode of transportation, but riding a Valparaíso funicular is a top thing to do in Valparaíso!

The hills in Valparaíso, Chile are ridiculously steep. You can pretty much eat whatever you want when you visit (hello, empanadas!) as you will burn off everything negotiating the hills. The funiculars not only help to keep you from wanting to pitch yourself from one of the lookouts but they are a tourist attraction in their own right.

Ascensor Concepción Prat is the oldest in the city. Funicular Cerro Artillería is one of the most popular as it offers some of the best views. My favorite was the Reina Victoria Acensor (Queen Victoria Funicular). It was said that Queen Victoria attended the opening. However, it opened in 1902 and she died in 1901, so I guess not!

At the top of the Reina Victoria are a few large paintings inspired by a cartoonist named Lucas. (There is also a museum dedicated to his work called the “House of Lucas.”) They are a satire of a group of people with animal shapes and faces. And, there’s a slide that you can go down for fun.

Try a Pisco (or Two!)

There is an ongoing debate between Chile and Peru as to who created the pisco sour. Both countries claim it and that’s ok! It just means when you go to either country, you should definitely try it!

I love pisco sours and drank more than a few when I was in Chile. One of my favorite places to go was Hotel Gervasoni in Cerro Concepción. It’s at the top of one of the big hills that Valparaíso rests on. They have an outdoor patio with incredible views. Enjoy a pisco sour (or two) while taking in the view, especially good at sunset.

Hotel Gervasoni is located at Paseo Gervasoni Nº1 – Cerro Concepción, Valparaíso, Chile .

Climb to Cerro Concepción

A popular place to visit is in Cerro Concepción. Take the funicular with the same name and wander this neighborhood. You’ll see a number of great viewpoints and one of the most popular is Mirador Atkinson. Stroll down the beautiful Paseo Gervasoni.

This area has a lot of restaurants and small shops and you’ll see talented local artists along the street selling their artwork.

Concepción, the name of the neighborhood (barrio) and the hill, is a fun maze of streets with lots of street art. If you’re there around sunset, head to the bright yellow house at the top of the hill for views over the Pacific.

Hotel Gervasoni that I mentioned earlier with the great rooftop deck for pisco sours is in this neighborhood.

Visit the Sea Lions in Puerto de Valparaíso

The walking tour I took ended at the port. Someone approached us to offer a group rate for a private boat. A few of us decided to do it and it was so much fun! It’s a great way to meet people while enjoying ocean views of the city. You can also find boats that will leave when full of people and offer 30-minute rides with a guide.

I do see some boat tours as part of day tours. However, if you speak even a little Spanish, consider going to the harbor directly. If you do a walking tour that ends in the port area, ask around in your group if others want to go. You’ll get a better rate with a group.

The ride was around an hour and I even got to drive the boat for a bit! (And, without crashing it—even better!) We got to see a lot of sea lions lounging in the sun. There were a couple of military warships in for security for the Independence Day celebrations. And lots of pelicans! This is also where cruise ships come in so may see one of those as well.

Once you get back to the port, there’s a great little area with locals selling handicrafts and souvenirs which is worth wandering around.

Muelle Prat, the seaport of Valparaíso, is located here on a map , right next to Plaza Sotomayor.

Visit Plaza Sotomayor

Before or after going to the port, take a walk through Plaza Sotomayor. It was named after Rafael Sotomayor. It’s a large plaza, or square, in Valparaíso right next to the Prat seaport and it’s the most important civic square in the city. It has many names—originally Plaza de la Aduana (Customs Square), Plaza del Palacio (Palace Square), and Plaza Intendencia (Intendency Square). It’s now recognized as a historic district.

In the center of the square is a large monument built to pay homage to the Chilean sailors who died in two battles. (The Battle of Iquique and the Battle of Pinta Gruesa).

The Chilean Navy headquarters is located in this square. There are some interesting buildings in the area worth walking around to see. However, the area past the plaza and away from the port is sketchy and should be avoided. We were told that police patrol and tell people to leave, which is a shame as there are some beautiful old churches there!

Our guide told us a funny story of a man who was walking in this neighborhood next to an old woman. He was approached by a policeman who asked if he knew who he was walking with. The man shrugged and said, “no, just an old woman.” It turned out she was one of the drug “kingpen” in the city at the time!

Wander to See the Street Art

Valparaíso is one of the graffiti capitals of South America. It’s known around the world for its street art and it’s actually legal here. You’ll see it all—from spray can graffiti to beautifully detailed murals.

Wander down any street in the maze that is Valparaíso and you’re likely to find street art before long. There are some beautiful classic murals and some really interesting and creative mixed-media ones as well.

Check out the Museo a Cielo Abierto for 20 murals done by students from Universidad Católica’s Instituto de Arte near the top of Ascensor Espíritu Santo. Templeman Street on Cerro Alegre is also a great place to go, and there are so many others.

Many of the buildings have bright colors, and we were told it’s believed so they are more visible at night. We saw a sign ‘We are not hippies we are happiest,” which seems perfect for this bohemian city.

Check Out La Sebastiana

One of three houses owned by one of Chile’s most loved ones is in Valparaíso, La Sebastiana. Pablo Neruda, a poet, and winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature had this home built near the top of one of Cerro Florida, one of Valpo’s many hills.

It’s a bit of a trek to get to, but it’s worth visiting. La Sebastiana is now a museum in his honor, preserved in its original state. It’s interesting to walk through and you can do it without a guide. This home provides great insight into who he was as a man including the things that he loved the most. It also offers some incredible city views.

La Chascona in Santiago is a bit quirky and this one is very different. It’s packed full of collectibles and has an amazing view. When he had it built, his one requirement was that he be able to see all of Valparaíso from the home. I’d say it was a success.

One of my favorite things was a stunning mosaic of a map of Patagonia created by an artist in tan, black, and white. The living room has a large carousel horse and a round fireplace designed by Neruda himself. And there are a number of gorgeous stained glass pieces.

According to Tripadvisor , this is the #1 thing to do in Valparaíso. I really enjoyed it and you won’t want to miss it.

La Sebastiana is located at Ricardo de Ferrari 692, Valparaíso, Chile . It’s open from Tuesday to Saturday from 11 to 5. Tickets cost 7,000 CLP ($9.60 USD). You can buy tickets online now which is great and I highly recommend it as it gets busy.

Parque Cultural de Valparaíso

Originally a Spanish fort built in the early 1800s, this structure later became a prison used to house and torture political prisoners when Pinochet controlled the country. It was a prison until 1999 when a new one was built. The space has been reborn and is now a large community space for culture, art, and social gathering. This place is much beloved by the people of Valparaíso.

It was created through a joint venture and a desire to install culture in a park open to the community. In 2020, there was a national architecture content to redefine the building. More than 118 joined the content, and the winner was chosen to redesign the structure for its current use. The old prison cell block remains, fitted to be used for artistic displays.

It’s a unique space filled with many large rooms used for dance, music, theater, and other artistic practices. There’s also a theater with 300 seats and a large visual arts room.

You can see the art of the former prisoners, people practicing dance routines, and an occasional exhibition.

Parque Cultural de Valparaíso is located at Cárcel 471, Valparaíso, Chile .

See Avenida Brasil

For something a little off the tourist path, take a stroll down Avenida Brasil. It was created in around 1880, originally known as Great Avenue. The name was later changed in the late 19th century to pay homage to the country of Brazil.

It runs for around a mile (1.6 km) and it’s one of the main arteries in the city. It’s a wide central grassy park lined by rows of palm trees. Many of the grassy areas have large statues and even an archway. There’s also some beautiful street art to enjoy during the walk.

Avenida Brasil is located here on a map .

Explore Cerro Alegre

Another of Valparaíso’s impressive hills is Cerro Alegre. It is next to Cerro Concepción so you can easily see both together if you choose.

Take the Ascensor El Peral built in 1902 over 170 feet (54 meters) at a 48-degree gradient. It’s located immediately behind Plaza Sotomayor and Plaza de Justicia. The entrance is not easy to see, however, there is a large sign.

This neighborhood has all of the energy and color of Valparaíso’s and is a great representation of this city. Meander through the alleyways and cobblestone streets to the Museum of Fine Arts (Museo de Bellas Artes). There are a lot of small shops, old-school bakeries, art galleries, and boutiques. You get the feeling of more of a small town than a large city here.

Look out over the port as you walk up and down the staircases decorated with street art and graffiti. You’ll see locals mingling with tourists here and street artists painting, juggling, and showing the fun vibe of this city.

When to Go to Valparaíso, Chile

Peak season to visit Valparaíso is in the summer, from December to February. Average temperatures during the summer are around 72°F (22°C) and they don’t tend to get more than a few degrees hotter.

If you want to avoid the tourist crowds, try September or October. It’s still nice weather for travel but not quite as busy. In the winter, lows average around 45°F (7°C).

Temperatures are pretty moderate overall so there isn’t really a bad time to go. However, it does rain a bit between May and September, with a peak generally in June.

How to Get to Valparaíso, Chile

The most common way to get to Valparaíso is by taking a bus from Santiago. Santiago to Valparaíso is a common route. You can get there from the Metro on the red metro line 1, Pajaritos stop.

There are a number of bus ticket booths and the best-known companies are Pullman and Turbus. Both run frequently, every 15 to 20 minutes from around 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Both are similar for comfort and safety ratings and the trip will take around 90 minutes.

The cost for the Pullman Bus is $4080 CLP one-way (around $5.60 USD). Turbus prices range based on the times from 3,800 CLP ($5.20 USD) to 5,900 CLP (a little over $8 USD).

Once you get to Valparaíso, it’s a 25-minute walk to the city center. Alternatively, there is a bus (the 505 to Plaza Sotomayor), or grab a taxi. When you’re ready to go back, the route from to Valparaíso to Santiago is the same.

There are also a number of great tour options for day trips from Santiago. You can see the best of Valparaíso along with neighbor Viña del Mar. There’s even a tour to visit the Casablanca wine region outside of Valpo. If you’re a wine lover, Casablanca is the top white wine region known for Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Check it out!

Where to Stay in Valparaíso, Chile

I do not recommend staying on the waterfront given my experience and the frequency of earthquakes. The hotel I stayed at was right on the water and shut down without any directions posted. At 1 am, when we ventured back down the hills, we were unable to enter our hotel and had to find another place to sleep. So, do yourself a favor and steer clear of the waterfront temptation!

• Budget : Maki Hostel Valparaiso —This comfortable hostel offers a variety of rooms including private rooms with private bathrooms. It’s in a fun and safe neighborhood and it’s a comfortable place with friendly and helpful staff.
• Mid-Range: Grand Hotel Gervasoni —If I were planning a trip back to Valpo, this is where I’d stay. We had a drink on their rooftop patio with amazing views and this hotel is gorgeous and surprisingly affordable. (Hotels are generally very affordable, though this is less than many). This large boutique hotel was built in 1870 and bridges the balance between traditional and modern.
• Unique : Winebox Valparaíso —This is the first container hotel in Valpo and worth considering for its uniqueness alone! It’s also the first urban winery in Valpo and they allow tourists and hotel guests to taste the winemaker’s barrels. On second thought, maybe I’d stay here! It’s a brightly-colored and fun-looking place worth checking out!
• Luxury : Hotel Boutique Acontraluz —Nestled in the Cerro Alegre neighborhood, this boutique hotel offers comfortable luxury. It has a rooftop terrace with amazing views, free wifi, free breakfast, and more. It’s close to Paseo Gervasoni and Paseo Atkinson and lots of wonderful bars and restaurants.

Things to Eat in Valparaíso

Valpo is on the water, so you can’t go wrong with fish when you’re here. One of my favorite dishes is ceviche and it’s plentiful, good, and cheap here. It’s a raw fish that is marinated and cooked in lemon juice. It’s then served with garlic, cilantro, onions, cumin, and olive oil. Yum. It’s a staple of Chile, Peru, and this part of South America.

Empanadas are popular here, as in Santiago. They are baked or fried dough pastries filled with seafood, cheese, beef, or pino made of ground beef, olive, onion, and egg. Don’t forget the Chilean hot sauce.

Completos are also popular here and it’s Chile’s take on a hot dog. It’s a beloved food here served with chopped tomato, cheese, mayo, and sauerkraut. I’m not a huge fan of hot dogs so I didn’t try one, but people absolutely rave about them!

Humitas are also popular, and they are the Chilean version of tamales. They are wrapped in corn husks and made of ground corn, basil, paprika, and onion. Then, they are steamed or boiled.

Places to Eat in Valparaíso, Chile

As you might expect in a town that’s as popular with tourists as Valparaíso, there are a lot of great restaurants. Some popular favorites:

• La Concepción is a favorite of locals in the old part of town. It has stunning views and high-quality food including ceviche, lamb, and local seafood.
• Caleta Portales is a great place to go for fresh seafood. It’s located in a fishing area and another favorite with locals.
• El Peral—Located above the Ascensor El Peral, this place is old school with the menu written on chalkboards every morning. Seafood is a big part of the menu and they’re known for their fresh juices.
• Delicias Express—The ultimate cheap and tasty fast food place, they make some of the best empanadas in town with over 60 different varieties.

You might read other articles about Bar Cinzano, a local institution that sadly closed. We had the opportunity to go and were a bit disappointed given how people raved about it. It was a cool place to go but had definitely passed its peak.

Does Valparaíso Chile Live Up to the Hype?

Valparaíso, for me, was a slow burn. It didn’t take my breath away when I first got there, but I quickly saw what others do. There’s definitely charm beneath some of the grit and it’s worth visiting this enchanting seaside city that captivated a Nobel-laureate poet and tourists alike.

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The Best Things to do in Valparaíso, Chile: Cultural Charms and Colourful Murals

Ready to discover the best things to do in Valparaiso? From seeing the colourful street art to exploring cool neighbourhoods, it’s time to explore this vibrant South American city. 

The iconic port city of Valparaiso beats to its own drum, bursting with colourful streets, balmy beaches, and empanadas galore (yum). Its inimitable charm bursts from picturesque cliff top homes and beguiling 19th-century architecture. 

Santiago might hog all the attention, but if you venture to Valparaiso, don’t be surprised if you fall head over heels for its charms. 

Join me as we discover the must-see attractions and hidden treasures of Valparaíso. Let’s go! 

Top Tip: Need somewhere to stay? Book in to the stylish Augusta Hotel

Top 5 Things to Do in Valparaíso

Admire street art.

If you thought Santiago was a street art hub, Valparaíso is the mecca. 

This is where you’ll come across some of the most touching and thought-provoking visuals and murals in Chile . Don’t forget your camera – trust me, these are worth every shot. 

Start your street art escapade at the Cerro Concepcion, where you’ll find a high concentration of captivating pieces. Funky hues and psychedelic geometric shapes assault your senses, making you question reality everywhere you look.

Oh, and don’t skip the stairs from Almte Montt via Palma to Dimalow unless you want to miss out on a cluster of street art, quirky cafes, and shops. 

Hop Onto an Ascensor 

Valparaíso is well-known for its enchanting steep hillsides. While climbing these hills are rewarding for their breathtaking panoramic views, I wouldn’t want to leave you with aching feet and burning thighs. The solution? Hopping on an ascensor (funicular). 

These century-old funiculars are a practical (and fun) way to conquer the city’s steep slopes at an affordable fee of £0.20 – £0.59 (CLP$222 – CLP$656) on top of that. 

I recommend Ascensor Reina Victoria if you’re near Plaza Anibal Pinto – it stretches from Elias Street to Paseo Dimalow. 

Also, consider taking the famous Funicular Cerro Artillería if you want to journey up Artillería Hill and visit Museo Maritimo . 

Visit Pablo Neruda’s House in Valparaíso

If you’re into literature or Chilean political history, you should know how important Pablo Neruda is as a poet and a politician – so much so that he was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature. 

As an activist writer and voice to a generation confronting their current aristocratic government, Neruda’s legacy leaves an everlasting imprint in Chile’s history. 

It makes sense then that the best thing you can do as a history buff is to visit Pablo Neruda’s House in Valparaíso. Known as La Sebastiana , the eclectic home boasts 360 views of the city and some of the poet’s personal memorabilia. 

Top Tip: The La Sebastiana Museum is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm. Tickets cost £7.20 ($8,000 CLP) for general admission. 

See the Piano Stairs 

What if I told you that one of the best things to do in Valpo involves musical steps on Beethoven Street? Crazy right? 

The Piano Stairs and their surroundings display colourful geometric patterns and are accessible 24/7 for free (obviously since it’s public). 

There’s a bit of mystery surrounding them too – no one actually knows who painted them. The fact that we’ll likely never know its origin makes it more intriguing. These “Beethoven” Piano Stairs sit right next to the cathedral in Cerro Concepción. 

Visit this famous tourist attraction by hopping on the Ascensor Reina Victoria, and voila – you have a backdrop for your next social media posts. 

Top Tip: Prepare to wait for your photo during peak times. 

Wander the Winding Streets of Cerro Alegre

After taking in all the cool sights at Cerro Concepcion, it’s time to explore another of Valparaíso’s charming neighbourhoods, Cerro Alegre. 

Perched atop the city’s many renowned hills (45 to be exact), Cerro Alegre is charismatic and vibrant – pretty fitting for a place whose name translates as “Cheerful Hill”. 

Boasting a unique concoction of history, culture and aesthetically pleasing architecture – spending some time here is a must. Expect winding cobblestone streets dotted with colourful houses and bright murals when you do. 

Walking through this neighbourhood feels like an open-air gallery. When you need a rest, you’ll have a variety of restaurants, boutique shops, and cafes to choose from. 

Brilliant Things to See & Do in Valparaíso

Go up to the cerro concepción viewpoint.

I’ve mentioned two scenic funiculars above, but let me introduce you to the Ascensor Concepción Prat. Inaugurated on December 1, 1883, it’s the oldest funicular in Valparaíso, connecting the Elías Alley with the Gervasoni Promenade on the Concepción Hill. 

This old-timer is also the very mode of transport that will take you to the Cerro Concepción Viewpoint, where vast views over Valparaíso await. 

Make sure your camera’s charged to snap up gorgeous photographs of the Pacific Ocean, vivid murals and brightly coloured buildings.

Grab Lunch or Dinner at La Conquistada 

Can you call yourself a travelholic if you don’t indulge in a country’s local cuisine? I’ve got just the place for you: La Conquistada. 

Serving you traditional Chilean delights and an authentic charm, this restaurant has you covered for lunch and dinner. Dig into delicious beef empanadas filled with surprising ingredients like raisins and olives, then wash it down with a sweet mojito.  

Their menu includes homemade desserts like Celestinos con Helado or Mote con Huesillos , salads, sandwiches, beers and wines. Visit between 10:30 am – 6 pm, Monday to Wednesday and from 12:30 to 8 pm, Thursday to Sunday.

Hunt Down the Works of Un Kolor Distinto 

Un Kolor Distinto is a dynamic duo in the thriving street art scene best known for their large-scale murals on the sides of the four highest buildings in the city. 

If you are looking for fun things to do in Valparaíso, consider tracking down their magnificent murals depicting astronomical events. 

These massive graffiti murals span 50 metres high, each inspired by themes of the Summer, Winter Solstices and the Spring, Autumn Equinoxes. In case you need the directions, here are the addresses to all four murals: 

• Spring Equinox: Yungay 2589
• Winter Solstice: Calle Molina 531
• Autumn Equinox: Avenida Pedro Montt between Rodríguez and Freire
• Summer Solstice: On the junction of Calle Blanco Sur and Bellavista

Sip Sundowners on the Roof Terrace at Fauna 

It’s time to throw caution to the wind, and what better way to do so than sipping on a snazzy drink as you gaze upon the dazzling city skyline? 

Make your way to the Fauna Hotel’s rooftop bar in Cerro Alegre. Even better, come during their happy hour for uninterrupted sips and sunset views. 

The restaurant operates daily from 12:30 to 10:30 pm, offering sublime bartending and cuisine. Expect locally crafted beers, expansive wine varieties and signature or traditional cocktails. You won’t go wrong with the local special, Pisco Sours, or the Beautiful Bye, a deliciously fruity affair. 

Take a Wine Tour of Casablanca Valley

If you consider yourself a wine connoisseur, visiting Valparaíso, Chile, without touring the Casablanca Valley, would be an injustice. 

This Chilean wine-growing region bursts with lush vineyards thanks to fertile soil, allowing wine-makers to produce some of the finest white varieties like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.

You can tour Casablanca Valley by yourself, which involves planning, such as calling up wineries at least one day before making a reservation. Most wineries charge between £10.80 – £18 ($12,000-$20,000 CLP). Luckily, most wineries are pretty close to each other. 

Top Tip: Want the wine without the hassle? Opt for this wine-tasting tour

Unique Things to See & Do in Valparaíso: Hidden Gems That Are Off the Beaten Track

Chill out on a secluded beach in concón.

Not all your memorable adventures need to take place in Valparaíso. Hear me out: Concón, a quaint beach town, sits about an hour and a half (by bus) outside the city. 

This beachy haven offers you one of the best things to do near Valparaíso and the best part? No one knows about it. 

Playa Los Lilenes is a hidden gem offering seclusion in an unassuming residential area. This isolated beach has soft sand for sunbathing and calm, clear waters for tranquil swimming.  

Experience a Lively Traditional Chilean Tango Bar

Most people associate tango with its birthplace, Argentina, but only some know that the Chileans like to get down to its hypnotic rhythms. 

I recommend going to Bar Cinzano, where you can soak up live music and a buzzing atmosphere filled with locals and tantalising sips of Pisco Sours. This traditional bar opens its doors from six pm to two am on Thursdays to Saturdays. 

Wander Through a Local Market

Visiting a market is one of the best ways to expose yourself to local culture and people. 

Valparaiso’s bustling markets also allow you to support small businesses, strike up conversations with residents and sample traditional foods not necessarily served at restaurants. 

I recommend the Mercado El Cardonal, a lively market overflowing with diverse goods. These include jewellery, hand-made clothing, fresh produce and local dishes like empanadas and pastel de choclo . 

The market opened in 1912 and is still operating daily, between 7:30 am and 5:30 pm. 

Explore a Former Prison

Parque Cultural de Valparaíso, or Valparaíso Cultural Park, is an old city prison once occupied by political prisoners During the Pinochet regime. 

After 1999, the prisoners were eventually moved to a new location, exposing the building to local artists and their otherworldly imaginations. Today, it’s a cultural hub filled with galleries, rehearsal halls, open-air master classes, a theatre and a circus. 

It’s fascinating how the dark and gloomy prison has been transformed into a colourful space bursting with creativity. You can visit the park every day, except Mondays, from 10 am to eight pm. 

Go Surfing at Reñaca Beach

Looking for a rad yet serene surfing spot that is not cluttered with busy tourists? 

Take on the rolling waves of Reñaca Beach, one of the best places for surfing in the country, thanks to fast barrels. You don’t have to come here for the surf only, though – according to many locals, Reñaca is also a prime spot for fresh seafood. 

The best time to visit Reñaca is between October and December. It takes about half an hour’s drive to reach the town from Valparaíso. You can either rent a car , grab a taxi or travel via the Line 602 bus. 

Things to Do in Valparaíso: Practical Tips for Your Trip

How long to visit in valparaíso .

A three-day trip should be enough to explore the city’s highlights and even make side trips to neighbouring towns like Isla Negra or Viña del Mar . If you prefer to explore Valparaíso leisurely, opt for four to five days. 

Best Time to Visit

It’s possible to visit Valparaíso year-round and still have a blast, but if you’re really after warm and dry weather, go from October to April. 

Where Should I Stay in Valparaíso? 

Val paradou – ex – casa magnolia (mid-range) .

This elegant hotel draws on classic, art deco elements, offering you a splendid stay in the Cerro Alegre district. 

The property features a sun terrace with gorgeous vistas and spacious rooms adorned with floral murals. Enjoy complimentary toiletries and continental breakfast at this stunning boutique hotel. 

Augusta Hotel (Luxury) 

Stay at a chic boutique hotel that boasts Instagram-worthy views and fabulous decor. The aparthotel features balconies with ocean sweeps and a fully-equipped kitchen in each unit. Enjoy a serene room with beautiful eclectic furniture, complimentary toiletries and a minibar.    

Recommended Tours in Valparaíso

• From Santiago: Vina Del Mar, Valparaíso, Casablanca & Reñaca Tour : If you’re travelling from Santiago, you’ll enjoy this day trip to Valparaíso, Vina del Mar resort, and the Casablanca white wine valley. 
• From Santiago: Valparaíso, Viña del Mar, and Neruda Museum : Join this break-away tour from Santiago to explore colourful Valparaíso, Vina del Mar, and Neruda Museum for a medley of art, gastronomy, culture, and poetry. 

Things to Do in Valparaíso: Map 

Things to do in Valpo: Read Next

• Top Things to do in Chile
• Explore More With This 10-Day Chile Itinerary

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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City Travel Guide: Valparaiso, Chile

Many things about Valparaiso, Chile reminded us of San Francisco. The hills, the port, the calling gulls, the adorable coffee shops, the brightly painted homes in a mish-mash of styles. If fact, in the 19th-century international sailors referred to Valparaiso as “little San Francisco”. But this historic city, which everyone calls Valpo for short, also has plenty of its own character and a wide range of attractions, hotels, and restaurants that draw local and international travelers. Rely on our city travel guide for the travel tips you need to explore Valparaiso.

This view down onto the port of Valparaiso, Chile was shot on a VERY rare clear day so you can also see the snow-covered Andes and Aconcagua, the highest peakin the world outside of the Himalayas, to right the far right, which are 98 miles away from the city.

The sprawling historic quarter of Valparaiso has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2003 in recognition of the city’s architecture which was influenced by the utilitarian needs of a port city, the challenge of withstanding devastating fires and earthquakes (more shades of San Francisco), and the tastes and style brought in by its international population.

Typical winding stone streets of Valparaiso, Chile.

Settled in the 1500s by the Spanish, who valued the port, Valpo boomed as the most important port city on the Pacific Coast of South America until 1914 when the Panama Canal opened and re-routed commercial shipping away from the Valparaiso port.

You will see many styles of architecture in Valparaiso, including the narrow Reloj Turri building.

Today, the port still operates and the Chilean Congress is here in a building constructed on top of a house where dictator Augusto Pinochet, a Valparaiso native, lived.

What to do in Valparaiso

The most emblematic innovation in Valparaiso is the city’s network of funiculars (locally called ascensores which means elevator in Spanish, however, all but one of them are actual funiculars). They transport people and goods up and down the hills that ring the city like an amphitheater. Over the years, many of the 30 original funiculars, which were built in the early 1900s, fell into disrepair. When we were in Valparaiso, there were 12 working funiculars in the city. They’re used by locals daily and have been protected and slowly restored as National Historic Monuments since 2008.

A funicular operator (left) and various views from Valparaiso’s famous hillside transportation.

For travelers, the funiculars are a fun way to explore the city and see some history in action. The Concepcion funicular is the oldest. The Cerro Artilleria funicular (below) is one of the longest and offers great views across the city and port. The Palanco ascensor is the only one that’s an elevator (not a funicular) because of its very steep incline and it travels through a dramatic tunnel. Tickets are cheap but must be bought in cash.

The view down from the Cerro Artilleria funicular in Valparaiso, Chile.

Wear sensible shoes in Valparaiso. You’ll be doing a lot of walking to take in the architecture that earned much of the city its UNESCO status. Sure, many of the buildings are tatty around the edges. However, the combination of brightly painted wood and the use of tin and corrugated metal is noteworthy.

Some of the street art you can see while walking through the Museo a Cielo Abierto in Valparaiso.

You’ll also be on your feet through a labyrinth of streets to experience the Museo a Cielo Abierto (Open Sky Museum). This free, casual, open-air street art museum was established in the Cerro Bellavista neighborhood in 1992. Today, many walls and fences have been turned into canvasses by Chilean artists who’ve created 20 cataloged murals in a variety of styles. Plenty of other works outside that core catalog have been added to the area over the years. There are also free and pay-for street art tours covering the Museo a Cielo Abierto and other parts of Valparaiso. Want more? Check out our full photo essay about street art in Valpariso .

Street scene in the Cerro Alegre area of Valparaiso.

Depending on who you ask, Nobel-prize-winning Chilean poet Pablo Neruda was the voice of the people, a creative genius, or a shameless womanizer. Perhaps all three. In Chile, three of the late poet’s homes have been turned into intimate museums run by the Pablo Neruda Foundation.

Just a few of the quirky treasures you can see in the La Sebastiana museum which was once the home of Chilean poet Pablo Neruda.

Neruda loved the sea and he loved seaside Valparaiso and visitors to the city should make time for a visit to the La Sebastiana Neruda Museum (7,000 CLP or about US$8, allow at least an hour, audio tour in English included). Neruda named the house in honor of architect Sebastian Collado who started the project before selling the unfinished home to the poet. Tiny rooms are reached via narrow staircases on four distinct floors that all have great sea and city views. Quirky décor includes a cow-shaped punch bowl, a huge photo of Walt Whitman (one of Neruda’s heroes), a wooden carousel horse (pictured above), and bedroom furniture from a ship. For more, read our post about all of the Pablo Neruda museums in Chile including La Sebastiana, La Chascona, and Isla Negra.

Colorful houses and shops in Valparaiso.

The newer, cleaner, less gritty, and more affluent Viña del Mar area begins just down the coast practically abutting Valparaiso. There are many restaurants and hotels in Viña del Mar, but we just drove through. From Valparaiso, a coastal train connects to Viña del Mar and it’s a scenic ride. The coast north of Viña is dotted with small beachfront towns and new apartment buildings for escapees from Santiago.

Valparaiso is the flat area to the right in the distance past the skyscrapers of Reñaca and Viña del Mar on the Pacific coast.

Where to sleep in Valparaiso

There are so many hotels in Valparaiso, from hostels to high end, that it can be hard to choose. For us, the most interesting options in town were in the mid-range boutique hotel category. Once you’ve chosen the category of hotel you’re interested in, decide which neighborhood you want to be based in. Remember, Valpo is a very hilly town that spreads across a series of small hills ( cerros ) separated by gullies and ravines. Getting between each cerro neighborhood can require quite a bit of uphill and downhill walking, so choose carefully.

The entrance to the MM450 Hotel Boutique in Valparaiso, Chile.

We wanted to be based in the Cerro Alegre neighborhood which has a high concentration of the activities, attractions, and restaurants for travelers. That’s where we found the MM450 Hotel Boutique . Opened in 2012 as the Mercado Moderno Hotel, this place was reimagined by its new owner, a Chilean designer, who created a spot-on reflection of the neighborhood’s easy chic.

A stylish but laid back room at the MM450 Hotel Boutique in Valparaiso.

The 3-level hotel is airy and light-filled with 10 minimalist rooms in organic colors (lots of white, gray, and earth tones) ranging from 170 square feet (16 square meters) to 300 square feet (28 square meters) with original wood floors and great beds. Some of the larger rooms have bathrooms with skylights and partial sea views. A lot of space has been preserved as shared patios and gardens that smell like jasmine. A new bar and restaurant called Social 450 recently opened, adding to the eating and drinking options in this part of town.

Where to eat in Valparaiso

Though the city has it’s share of rip-off, low-quality, tourist-trap restaurants, Valparaiso also has some worthy eating options if you know where to look.

Do yourself a favor and just order the morcilla ravioli at Pasta e Vino in Valparaiso.

Pasta e Vino is packed for reason. The loft-like space has an open kitchen, an English menu, and English-speaking staff who start you off with an amuse-bouche and some excellent homemade breads as you tackle the menu. We had trouble choosing between the 11 kinds of ravioli, nine gnocchis, and four fettuccine dishes so we asked for some recommendations. We never would have ordered the morcilla (blood sausage) ravioli, but we’re glad we took our waiter’s advice. It was one of the best dishes we had all year:  moist, tender, and rich in a moderately creamy leek sauce. Another winning recommendation was a bottle of Emiliano 2016 organic “Coyam” blend of syrah, cabernet sauvignon, carmenere, mourvedre, malbec, grenache, and tempranillo that was spicy and earthy. Make a reservation.

A legit pizza at Malandrino il Pizzaiolo in Valparaiso.

Staff at the MM450 hotel recommended a casual restaurant called Malandrino il Pizzaiolo and we’re glad they did. Just around the corner from the hotel, the pizza here had excellent crust and sauce and was made in a real wood-burning oven. The menu also included pasta dishes and salads plus wine, beer, and cocktails.

Though Chile has thousands of miles of Pacific coastline and some of the richest waters in the world, Chileans don’t eat much fish or seafood (most of the catch is exported). Also, fishing quotas have been reduced in recent years and illegal fishing is a growing problem and this creates a challenging environment for non-industrial fishermen. Tres Peces restaurant in Valparaiso is trying to get more Chileans eating sustainably caught fish and seafood.

At Tres Peces, one wall is covered in photos of some of the 40+ artisanal fishermen they rely on for their sustainable catch.

Opened in 2018 by three partners (hence the name), the casual restaurant (wood floor, wood tables and chairs, high ceilings, and a wall covered in photos of their fishermen) is a way of funding their larger educational and fishing policy change efforts. The menu changes daily based on what they get from a network of more than 40 artisanal fishermen across Chile. Prices are extremely reasonable (when we were there all entrees were 6,500 CLP/US$8, all mains were 7,500 CLP/US$9, all wines were 15,000 CLP/US$18 per bottle, and all homemade desserts were 3,500 CLP/$US4).

One of many sustainable, high-quality, and low-cost seafood dishes at Tres Peces.

While prices are low, standards are high. Highlights from our lunch at Tres Peces included Caldillo de Congrio, a beloved conger eel soup, which was a buttery rich broth laden with bright cilantro and tender eel served in a charmingly-chipped laminated tin cup.

Well-prepared dishes at Puerto Claro, the most ambitious restaurant in Valparaiso.

The most ambitious restaurant in town is Restaurante Puerto Claro . Opened in 2018 and named for the name the Spanish gave to the port in Valparaiso, this bistro-like space (exposed brick, brown leather banquettes, weathered wood floor) in a restored building offers four seasonal ala carte menus and a changing 7-course tasting menu.

The casual bistro feel at Puerto Claro is a welcoming environment for their creative plates and well-crafted cocktails.

Black napkins, bespoke cocktails, an extensive wine list, and live jazz nights are sophisticated touches, but it’s the food that surprises. A cold giant clam appetizer was tender and sweet with bright parsley and grated truffle on top in a tangy citrus broth. Sweetbreads were crunchy on the outside and just tender (not mushy) on the inside and energized with zingy pickled mussels. A main course of braised shank cubes in a fragrant and thick mushroom gravy with a side of grits was hearty and satisfying, especially when paired with a glass of Chilean syrah.

A Valparaiso travel warning

Valparaiso is a port town and tourism is not its primary focus. There’s a grittiness here that is mostly a harmless part of the city’s DNA. However, violence is not unheard of. For example, the Friday before we arrived in Valparaiso, a male Canadian tourist was killed with a knife in broad daylight after he refused to give his backpack to a thief. During our visit, almost everyone we met warned us to be careful. Also, we encountered a few very aggressive dogs on the street.

One of many historic buildings in gritty but great Valparaiso.

In his poem “Ode to Valparaiso,” Pablo Neruda says, in part, “VALPARAÍSO, what an absurdity you are, how crazy: a crazy port. What a head of disheveled hills, that you never finish combing. Never did you have time to dress yourself, and always you were surprised by life.”

Here’s the full Neruda poem in the original Spanish .

Here’s more about travel in Chile

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Bohemian and colorful, Valparaiso’s maze of hills has long inspired poets and writers. You’ll discover something new at every turn: a gem of a building, a remarkable art gallery or some little gastronomic ‘find’.

Revel in the crazy architecture of this World Heritage City. Stroll along its narrow streets, climb its endless staircases, ride its historic funicular elevators and enjoy panoramic views from its many lofty lookout points. Feel the excitement in the air at one of the city’s many carnivals, or celebrate New Year in spectacular style at Valparaiso’s ocean-front fireworks party.

Don’t forget to explore the port and fishing wharves, where you’ll get a real feel for Chile’s quirky seafaring side. Buy or sample freshly-caught seafood at the market and enjoy the fishermen’s banter!

The ‘Jewel of the Pacific,’ as Valparaíso is known, is also home to Chile’s legislative Congress and the headquarters of the Chilean navy. Admire these historic buildings and soak up the country’s maritime history!

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Explore the charms Valparaíso

Discover the stories hidden in Valparaíso’s stairways, funiculars, and picturesque houses. Take the El Peral funicular, where you will be greeted by the beautiful Yugoslavo Boulevard with the magnificent Baburizza Palace, home of the Municipal Museum of Fine Arts. Delight yourself with the exquisite dishes prepared by fresh seafood restaurants. Connect with Cerro Concepción through Montealegre Street and marvel at the striking La Santa Cruz Lutheran church. That is where the Dimalow promenade begins, where you can relax in beautiful boutique hotels.

Enjoy the spectacular view of the Valparaiso Bay from the top of Bellavista Hill. Take in the colors and the quaint houses that breathe life into Chile’s main port.

Discover the best kept secrets of renowned Chilean poet Pablo Neruda in his house-museum, La Sebastiana, a 4 floor building which was the poet’s hideout. Iconic for the port, be taken away by its decor and collectibles, which Neruda gathered on his trips around the world. Come and relive the Nobel Prize winner’s life, surrounded by memories and nostalgia.

Valparaiso invites you to visit its hills, but it doesn’t want you to get tired out! Step onto its famous funiculars (elevators built on rail tracks) and visit the heights of the main port. Take the Artilleria Funicular up to Paseo 21 de Mayo to enjoy a privileged view of the bay.

If you are an astronomy enthusiast, discover where the first astronomical observatory was built when stepping off the Cordillera Funicular. Lose yourself on the famous Alegre Hill and its Paseo Yugoslavo when you step onto funicular El Peral. Discover the beauty of the “Pacific Jewel” while riding a funicular; it is certainly the best way to start!

A must-see when visiting Valparaiso is the Sotomayor Square (Plaza Sotomayor), known for its eye-catching monument dedicated to the seamen who lost their lives in the Iquique Naval Battle.

This greatly patriotic site is surrounded by heritage buildings. Take a break in the area´s beautiful cafés and look out at the port and its ships.

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Chile | Blog Visit Valparaiso the most colourful and charming city in Chile

October 20, 2023

Once named the jewel of South America and considered by many as the cultural capital of Chile , Valparaiso is real paradise for art and specifically street art lovers. 

As Pablo Neruda said: ‘Valparaíso, how absurd you are. You haven’t combed your hair, you’ve never had time to get dressed, life has always surprised you.’ This summarises perfectly this colourful and quite messy city. 

Valparaiso is not for everyone, so you will either completely fall in love with it or simply hate it. But if you’re looking for a unique, creative and bohemian city where you can lose yourself for hours, check out this Valparaiso travel guide!   

How to get to Valparaiso 

Getting to Valparaiso is very easy as it’s located only 120km (74 Miles) away from Santiago . 

The first option is to rent a car which will give you more freedom to visit the cities around Valparaiso. We will get to that later. If you don’t stop along the way, the journey should take you around 1h20. 

You can also take the bus as different compagnies offer this regularly throughout the day. Don’t worry buses in Chile are extremely comfortable so the 1h45 will fly by and you’ll be ready to explore in no time. 

Lastly, you can choose to take a taxi or private transfer . You can ask your driver to stop along the way and get picked up wherever you decide. 

A little bit of history   

Valparaiso was once one of the richest cities in South America thanks to the European shipping boats that were stopping there during their journey to the USA. Its prosperous port attracted plenty of rich Spanish, French and Germans who imported with them their beautiful architecture. 

Unfortunately, when the Panama Canal opened, the ships didn’t need to travel around South America anymore, so the economy of the city collapsed very quickly, and the wealthy families moved away. 

In the 1940’s it was the biggening of muralism in Mexico and Pablo Neruda a diplomate from Valparaiso and later the famous poet that we know today, decided to bring it home by inviting street artists to paint some murals .   

Later, while Chile was under the dictatorship of General Pinochet, street art became for many a way to express themselves and even though it was prohibited by the military, it started to flourish in the city. Despite the risk of getting captured and tortured to death, these groups of activists persisted and played an important role in the return of the democracy. 

Today, Valparaiso is the only city in Chile where street art is legal and even celebrated as a form of hope and freedom. Local government supports street artists and restaurants, whilst shops and hotels pay to get some very impressive murals.   

What to do in Valparaiso

Get lost in cerro alegre and cerro concepcion .

One of the best things to do in Valparaiso is to get lost in the picturesque streets. With its numerous stairs and hills, it won’t be a breezy walk in the park, and you need to get ready for a little bit of sweating but we promise you that it’s absolutely worth it! The city is composed of numerous hills and our two favourites are Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepcion . There, you will get the chance to admire incredible works of art and gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean . Take some time to wander in the cute boutiques and art galleries where you will surely find some souvenirs to take back home. And when you’re too tired to walk, catch your breath in one of the various charming cafés. 

Watch Sea Lions

Ok maybe we were a little bit too fast to say that the best thing you’ll do is walking because you can also spot sea lions in Valparaiso ! We don’t exactly know why they chose this abandoned platform as their home, but the sea lions are a real attraction here and lots of people walk to the pier every day to enjoy their reality show. Because yes, a huge colony of sea lions living on a tiny piece of concrete is a lot of drama, shouting, fights and you can even watch some unlucky ones get pushed into the ocean and then spend a long time trying to get back onto the platform. 

While these big creatures delight the tourists, they’re a real nightmare for local fishermen. They no longer bother to hunt as they learned to recognise the sound of the boats and when they hear them, they jump into the water and destroy the fishing nets to devour the treats inside.   

Get an artisanal beer in Cervecería Anfiteatro

There are a lot of breweries in Valparaiso serving their own delicious craft beer, but Cerveceria Anfiteatro was recommended to us by a very nice local and became our personal favourite. The beers are cheap, very tasty and the staff is super friendly, we can’t ask for more than that! 

If you’re not convinced by this one or just want to embark on a pub crawl, Cumming street is the perfect location for a night out and you will have plenty of choice there. Just remember that once you see the locals go home, it’s time for you to call it a night and head back to your hotel. Don’t stay out wandering the streets! 

Try the famous Pisco Sour 

In the same category, you have to try Pisco Sour in Valparaiso because it’s without a doubt one of the best we had in South America. We are not entirely sure if it was invented in Peru or Chile as both countries claim it, but one thing is certain, you can’t leave Chile without tasting this famous cocktail. 

The Pisco Sour is a pretty simple cocktail made with Pisco, lime juice, simple syrup and egg white. But don’t let the egg white scare you away because you’re in for a treat! 

Ride the Funiculars 

There is one thing that you absolutely need to do in Valparaiso: ride one of the famous funiculars . Valparaiso is mainly made of hills which means a lot of staircases to climb, so to make it a bit easier, the city created around 30 elevators back in the 1800s. Today, only 16 of them remain and 9 are being modernised. 

The funiculars are a big part of what makes Valparaiso so atypical and were one of the reasons why the city was declared a Unesco World Heritage Site . Plus, they’re very cheap, around 500 Chilean Pesos for one way and let’s be honest, it’s much more fun than climbing hundreds of stairs! The most popular one is Ascensor Reina Victoria which takes you up to Cerro Alegre and offers a very cool view of Cerro Panteon and its cemetery.    

Visit Pablo Neruda’s House 

La Sebastiana was the house of the world-renowned poet and famous political figure Pablo Neruda . It’s located at the top of Cerro Bellavista and as the name suggests, you get an incredible view from his five-story house. His former residence has been turned into a museum and for 7000 Chilean Pesos you will learn more about its work and life and get the chance to appreciate its unique architecture and decoration. 

Escape the city in Concon 

If you’re looking for a day trip to enjoy the beach near Valparaiso, Concon is a great place to head to! It’s located 35 minutes away from Valparaiso by car or between 45minutes and 1h10 by public transport depending on the bus you take and the traffic. Concon is less crowdy than its neighbour Viña Del Mar and offers plenty of nice things to do. 

For those who like surfing, go to La Boca playa where you can rent the equipment and find some good food. If surfing is not your thing but you still want to do an activity, you can also ride a horse, rent a kayak and even go paragliding. We understand that you might prefer a quiet beach to relax and soak up the sun so check out Playa Negra a small secluded beach where you will find some peace. 

Also, a trip to Concon wouldn’t be complete without seeing the dunes . If you’re courageous enough and want to exercise a little bit, you can climb on top and admire the view. Or you can simply walk along the coast and take some photos of the beautiful cliff with the dune as a background.  

Eat some delicious sea food in Vina del mar 

While Valparaiso looks like the cool kid full of tattoos and is a little bit chaotic, Viña del Mar is its opposite chic sister with manicured boulevards, lush outdoor gardens, and monochromic buildings. Besides offering gorgeous sandy beaches, Viña del Mar is also a great place to try some excellent sea food.  

While you’re there, explore Cerro Castillo and its beautiful mansions, visit the Botanical National Garden and learn more about Chilean History in the Francisco Fonck museum.    

Our favourite artists you should look for 

We made a list of some street-artists that we absolutely loved in Valparaiso so you can try to spot their work of art: 

• La Loica  
• Varas Mackenzie  
• Anis 88  
• Maria Marte
• Daniela Daza  
• Maida K  
• Naath Carmen  
• Kevin Galassi  
• Cardo Maleza  

We hope that this article gave you an idea of how incredible Valparaiso is and why you should include it to your next trip to Chile! Get in touch if you want us to help you organise the adventure of your life. For more great things to do in Chile, have a look  here . 

Uncover South America Team

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Spend One Perfect Day in Valparaiso: Itinerary + How to Go from Santiago to Valparaiso in One Day!

Last Updated on: 19th September 2021, 06:30 pm

Wondering how to take a day trip from Santiago to Valparaiso? This relaxed one-day Valparaiso itinerary introduces you to the highlights, delights, and beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Good to Know: This guide to how to spend one day in Valparaiso comes to us from Kay Rodriguez from Jetfarer about her trip to the  UNESCO World Heritage Site  the “Historic Quarter of the Seaport City of Valparaíso.”)

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What to Do on a Day Trip to Valparaiso, Chile

Valparaiso is Chile’s second city, a seaside port city marked by colorful, painted homes sitting on the hills. It’s also an incredibly important historic and cultural hub in Chile, earning it a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation . As a center point for many of Chile’s governmental affairs, Valparaiso is much more than a tiny seaside town — this massive city sprawls over 11 different hills bordering the sea.

Wandering through the streets of Valparaiso, the story shifts from bustling streets and political humdrum to quiet, colorful homes and murals. The city is home to a vibrant artistic community, and if you’re lucky, you might even run into an artist painting a sidewalk or wall. As a hillside city, you’ll find tons of staircases all over the city that you can wander around and admire.

I’ve been to Valparaiso three times: once on a day trip and twice on weekend jaunts. It’s definitely one of the most unique places to visit in Chile . There are tons of things to do in Valparaiso, even if you only have one day to enjoy it. 

7 Colorful Things to Do in Valparaiso, Chile

Here are 7 of my favorite Valparaiso activities if you’ve only got one day in the city.

Take a Free Walking Tour

For people who are super strapped for time, the Valparaiso Free Walking Tour is the best way to see a lot of Valparaiso’s main sights in a short amount of time. The free walking tours begin near the bottom of Cerro Concepcion and take you around to some of Valparaiso’s best viewpoints, historic sites, street art alleys, and more.

Plus, you’ll learn a lot about the history and fun facts in the city.

I won’t give away all of the surprises that the tour offers, but I will say that it’s 100% worth doing one, even if you’re planning on exploring the city again later.

Tours depart twice a day, every day, at 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Tours are free, but you’ll need to tip your tour guide what you felt the tour was worth at the end. I usually tip 6,500 CLP (~$10 USD) to every tour guide I felt did a great job.

Wander the Street Art-Filled Alleys

If you’re only going to do one thing in Valparaiso, I’d tell you to do nothing. Instead, pick a neighborhood and just…wander. The city is famous for its varied and widespread street art, and therefore, Valparaiso’s main charms lie on its quirky, colorful streets.

In fact, one of the most interesting tidbits about Valparaiso is that it’s a defiance of Chilean law — everywhere else in the country, street art is technically illegal. When you arrive in Valparaiso, you’ll find that almost every inch of space on a public, external wall is covered in the brightest, boldest painted street art, which is different than most other cities in the country.

I recommend starting in the Cerro Concepcion area and then wandering from there. You can head all the way to Museo de Cielo Abierto, or simply stick around in the alleys nearby (which are some of the most famous and colorful in the entire city).

Visit Pablo Neruda’s Home, La Sebastiana

Pablo Neruda is one of Chile’s most famous poets, a Nobel Prize winner, and an avid name in the political sphere during the 1960s and 1970s. And, aside from being a massive womanizer, he also had a fascinating mind, which you can catch a glimpse of in his living spaces.

Luckily, one of his three homes is located in Valparaiso, Chile — the beautiful La Sebastiana , which overlooks the sea. Now preserved by the Neruda Foundation as a revered historic monument to this complex man, a visit to La Sebastiana will show you exactly how Neruda himself lived. To see the others, you’ll need to visit Isla Negra or Santiago (this list of things to do in Santiago has more info on his other house, La Chascona!).

A trip to La Sebastiana (or any of Neruda’s homes) is as much a lesson in Neruda’s life as it is a deep look into Chile’s history. Neruda was a high profile man who was closely involved with the nation’s political leaders, including President Allende, who was overthrown in a coup d’etat in the early 1970s. You’ll learn about some of the most pivotal moments of Chilean history in the last century, and how Neruda was involved from afar.

Additionally, the views from La Sebastiana are some of the most beautiful in ALL of Valparaiso, so it’s worth popping by just to admire the views of the colorful houses and rooftops amidst a blue, seaside backdrop.

La Sebastiana costs 11,000 CLP to enter and includes an audio guide in either English or Spanish. You can’t take photos inside the house, but you can take photos of the exteriors and the breathtaking views of Valparaiso below.

Ride an Ascensor (Historic Funicular Car)

The ascensores , or hillside funicular cars, in Valparaiso, are some of the most important historic landmarks that you can still ride today. Ascensor is technically the Spanish word for elevator, but given how steep these hills are, these funicular cars definitely count.

As a super hilly city, these funicular cars made it possible for people to build homes and businesses up the hill, as they provide increase access to many parts of the city that were difficult to reach by foot before.

Here are some of the currently functioning ascensores that you can still ride today:

• Ascensor Reina Victoria
• Ascensor Concepcion (currently closed for renovations)
• Ascensor Baron

Simply show up at the ascensor station, pay the small fee, and board the small, wooden car. You’ll usually have to wait until the car is reasonably full before it takes off. At just a few hundred CLP per person, it’s worth riding ALL of them if you have the time!

Go for a Swim at the Beach

What’s a more obvious activity to try on a sunny afternoon in a port city? Head to the beach near Caleta Portales, where you can lie on the sand, go for a dip in the water, and enjoy cold drinks and snacks in the warmth of the Chilean sun.

In the summer, the beach is bustling — tons of visitors and local families flock to the shore on warm days, sitting under rainbow umbrellas and sunbathing for the entire afternoon. There are a few beach kiosks and a small outdoor food market where you can grab lunch or a snack to take with you to the beach.

While you’re at the beach, stop by Caleta Portales, the local market, to see the fish vendors selling their catch of the day.

Don’t get this confused with a nearby restaurant with the same name — the Caleta Portales market is dark, fishy, and full of people. But in those narrow market alleys filled with icy buckets of fish, you can also find the city’s freshest and most delicious ceviche and mariscada.

Join a Boat Trip off the Coast

While you’ll spend most of your time in the hills, there’s a lot to see out on the water as well. The best way to see those epic city views of Valparaiso’s colorful hills is by taking a boat trip out on the water.

On the tour, you’ll learn about some of the history of Valparaiso, including a short description of some of the military and shipping vessels in the harbor. You’ll ride around the shore, looking at different parts of Valparaiso by sea, and your guide will point out different landmarks like the ascensores , Neruda’s house, historic churches, and more.

You’ll also get to see adorable photos of the sea lions that call the port’s pillars and piers their home. They literally pose for tourists and it’s the cutest thing ever.

There are a few ways to do this: the budget way or a comfortable way. Both have their merits and cons, but I’ll mention that I have only done the local way, which is significantly cheaper and a hilarious way to learn about the maritime history of the harbor.

The budget way

On the shore, at Muelle Prat, there’s a nondescript boarding area that offers 30-minute boat tours for just 4,000 CLP per person. The boats are SUPER bare bones and have no shade, and you’ll likely be sharing your wooden bench with several other people, crammed in like sardines. The tours are ONLY in Spanish, so if you actually want to learn something and your Espanol is a little rusty, I’d recommend booking a cushier, English-speaking boat tour. But, if you want to meet some hilarious Chileans and simply take in the views of Valparaiso, it’s a cheap and fun option. Don’t forget to tip the guide at the end.

The comfortable way

You can book a boat tour in advance with an English-speaking guide, which will teach you all about the maritime and port history of Valparaiso. These boats are usually much less crowded, have cushioned seats, and offer English support. The tours are also longer and more in-depth. I’ve never been on a tour like this, but this one looks like a really nice option.

Eat Delicious Seafood on a Seaside Terrace

One of my favorite activities in Valparaiso is grabbing a table at a restaurant with a terrace and simply watching the world go by. If you’re a more active traveler, you might find this suggestion totally boring, but hear me out: terrace dining is a Valparaiso must-do.

Why? Because, as an Airbnb host in Valparaiso once told me, “the portenos LOVE their seafood.”

And it’s true. There’s seafood everywhere. It is, after all, a seaside city in Chile, one of the countries in the world with the longest coastlines. And, if you’re going to try seafood during your time in Chile, Valparaiso is one of the best places to do so.

Part of the quintessential Valparaiso seafood dining experience, however, is soaking in the views while you’re stuffing your face. This is where the terrace comes in. The best restaurant terraces are not, in fact, next to the water. They’re up in the hills. With sweeping views of the entire city and the sea, terrace restaurants provide you a wonderful view, a wonderful meal, and the absolute best places to watch some of the best sunsets in Chile.

I’ve been to a lot of places in Valparaiso, but my favorite was La Fauna Restaurant & Cafe. Their terrace has a stunning view of the surrounding colorful buildings, a nearby hilltop cemetery, and the ocean. It’s a great place to sip on a house-made Chilean pisco sour and dine on some melt-in-your-mount delicious fish dishes while watching the sky turn pink and orange in the sunset.

Stephanie’s Tip: Prefer to do your sightseeing on organized tours? Here are some of the most popular Valparaiso City Tours: 4-Hour City Tour by Van and Funicular: Check reviews & prices. Street Art Walking Tour: Check reviews & prices. World Heritage Half Day Walking Tour : Check reviews & prices. Pablo Neruda House & Wine Tasting: Check reviews & prices.

Know Before You Go: Valparaiso Travel Tips

How to Get to Valparaiso from Santiago

There are regular buses each day from Santiago to Valparaiso and vice versa. They usually leave every 10 to 15 minutes.

Buses from Santiago cost 3,000-4,000 CLP each way and depart from either Alameda or Pajaritos bus stations, which are both accessible by public transportation. There are several bus stations you can use to arrive in Valparaiso; the most popular companies are Tur Bus, Pullman Bus, and Condor. Each bus takes about 2 hours to arrive in Valparaiso.

To return to Santiago from Valparaiso, simply head back to the Valparaiso “rodoviario,” where you can purchase a bus ticket back to Santiago. Note that this bus station does not announce which bus is going where, so once you buy your ticket, you’ll need to ask the buses on the platform individually to make sure you’re on the right one.

Stephanie’s Tip: If you prefer to go on an organized group tour, check out the “From Santiago: Valparaiso and Viña del Mar Day Tour.” Click here to find out more information on schedules, bookings, and prices. Or if you’d rather see Valparaiso and enjoy a winery, check out the “ From Santiago: Valparaíso and Winery Day Trip .” Click here to find out more information on schedules, bookings, and prices .

How to Get Around Valparaiso

The best and easiest way to get around Valparaiso is by foot. It’s a large city, of course, but many of the attractions and places to stay are within walking distance of each other.

Wandering around the city by foot is part of the fun and adventure of being here — you never really know what beautiful artwork, stunning viewpoint, or colorful cafe you’ll stumble upon while walking through the alleys and footpaths.

There are local public buses you can take around the lower areas of the city, and there are also Ubers and taxis available in more popular tourist areas.

Where to Stay in Valparaiso

While you can do everything on this list on a day trip, I’d also recommend staying in Valparaiso for one or two nights to get a good feel for the city (and catch more of those swoon-worthy sunsets).

There are tons of small boutique hotels in Valparaiso that are both picturesque and affordable. I would strongly recommend staying in the Cerro Concepcion area, as it’s walkable to most of the major landmarks and attractions in Valparaiso.

Here are a few mid-range hotels and budget hostels I’d recommend in Valparaiso:

• La Galeria B&B – A cozy bed and breakfast located in the heart of the Cerro Concepcion area. Check pricing, reviews, and availability here.
• Casa Verde Limon Hostel – This one is a colorful, budget-friendly hostel located at the foot of Cerro Alegre and Concepcion. Check pricing, reviews, and availability here.

Kay Rodriguez is the adventure addict and writer behind Jetfarer , a travel blog dedicated to helping time-strapped professionals plan the most epic adventures around the world during their limited vacation time. You can learn more about her adventures on Instagram or Facebook .

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Valparaíso Travel Guide

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Spread over an amphitheatre of hills encircling a wide bay, Valparaíso is the most intriguing and distinctive city in Chile. Its most striking feature is the array of houses – a mad, colourful tangle of them tumbling down the hills to a narrow shelf of land below. Few roads make it up these gradients and most people get up and down on the city’s ascensores (lifts), ancient-looking funiculars that slowly haul you up to incredible viewpoints.

A brief history of Valparaíso

Valparaíso’s antiquated lifts, south of valparaíso, central coast chile, when to visit the central coast of chile.

The eastern end of town near the bus station is of limited interest; instead head west to the old town which stretches along a narrow strip of land between Plaza Victoria and Plaza Wheelwright (also known as Plaza Aduana), at the city’s historic core. The port district, with its British-style banks, atmospheric bars and old-fashioned shops, is the most idiosyncratic part of the city and should not be missed. Unfortunately, you’ll also have to contend with a certain amount of noise, general shabbiness and crime. However, just go up two or three ascensores , check out the enchanting cerros Alegre and Concepción, and sample the views by night, when the city’s flickering lights are reflected in the ocean – and you’re sure to fall under Valparaíso’s spell.

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14 days  / from 3800 USD

Self-Drive Santiago, Wines & Lakes

Discover the beauty of Chile independently in your own rental car. Start in Santiago before heading to Pucon, Huilo Huilo and Puerto Varas. As you'll be in your own car, you can plan each day at your liking - hikes, relaxing or cultural exploration? Decide spontaneously.

13 days  / from 3180 USD

From Chile to Argentina, across the Andean Lakes

Travel from Chile to Argentina across the stunning Andean Lakes, also known as the Lakes District. Beginning in Santiago, you will travel to Puerto Varas, in Chile, and then across the lakes to Bariloche, Argentina, taking in the stunning mountain scenery, before ending your trip in Buenos Aires.

16 days  / from 5050 USD

Andean Triangle - Chile, Bolivia and Argentina

Start your South American adventure in Santiago de Chile before exploring the wonders of the Atacama desert. A short hop across the border and you'll find yourself in the middle of the Bolivian salt flat. Afterwards, you'll continue to Argentina with Salta and Buenos Aires.

13 days  / from 6800 USD

Wild Patagonia

Argentina has lots to offer its visitors: a glacier the size of a city, sizzling tango, fashionable barrios, artisan towns, ranches with horses and gauchos and wild untamed natural beauty. From Buenos Aires to Patagonia, you’ll get to see it all in this adventure-laden vacation.

14 days  / from 2271 USD

Multi-country adventures from salt flats to the Andes

South America is full of wonders and this trip packs Argentina, Chile and Bolivia into 2 weeks. Bustling Buenos Aires, beautiful valleys around Salta, the surreal looking surroundings of San Pedro de Atacama, the salt flat of Uyuni as well as Lake Titicaca are all part of this itinerary.

10 days  / from 2120 USD

South American Wines Trail

All wine lovers unite! Start your tour in Buenos Aires before heading to the wine region of Mendoza. Sample some of Argentina's finest wines and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Afterwards, continue to Santiago de Chile with a day trip to Valparaiso.

13 days  / from 2756 USD

Argentina and Chile: Dazzling Cities and Magical Landscapes

Santiago is an emerging city, whilst Buenos Aires has long been a busy metropolis. Both offer historical buildings to admire, a local gastronomy scene to savour and sensuous dances to learn. Not to mention the mountainous terrain and desert landscapes outside the cities waiting to be explored.

14 days  / from 7857 USD

Southern Argentina & Antarctica

Explore the Antarctica on an intimate cruise from Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. Start in Buenos Aires before spending a few nights in El Calafate and Ushuaia to then board your cruise. 4 nights in the Antarctic are the highlight of your trip before heading to Chile's capital Santiago.

Argentina and Chile - Wine Country Explored

Get a taste of the wines of Argentina and Chile on this tour of the country's best bodegas. Sway to the rhythm of tango in Buenos Aires before you head to high altitude towns and absorb stunning mountain scenery. Then it's across the border into Chile to sample Santiago's historic delights.

11 days  / from 15375 USD

Classic Antarctica from Chile

Start and end your trip in Chile and discover the Antarctica on an intimate, Boutique-style expedition boat. Cruise the Drake Passage, visit Cape Horn and fly back to Punta Arenas before returning to the capital Santiago.

The bay was chosen as the site of the new colony’s port as early as 1542, when Pedro de Valdivia decided it would “serve the trade of these lands and of Santiago”. Growth was slow, however, owing to trading restrictions, but when Latin American trade was liberalized in the 1820s, after independence, Valparaíso started to come into its own. On the shipping route from Europe to America’s Pacific Coast, it became the main port of call and resupply centre for ships after they crossed the Straits of Magellan. As Chile’s own foreign trade expanded with the silver and copper booms of the 1830s, the port became ever more active, but it was the government’s innovative creation of public warehouses where merchants could store goods at low prices that really launched Valparaíso into its economic ascent.

Progress and setbacks

Foreign businessmen, particularly British ones, flocked to the city where they ran trading empires built on copper, silver and nitrate. By the late nineteenth century they had turned Valparaíso into Chile’s foremost financial and commercial centre. Even as it prospered, however, Valparaíso continued to be dogged by the kind of violent setbacks that had always punctuated its history, from looting pirates and buccaneers to earthquakes and fires. On March 31, 1866, following Chile’s entanglement in a dispute between Spain and Peru, the Spanish admiralty bombarded Valparaíso, wreaking devastation. It took a long time to rebuild the city, but worse was to come. On August 16, 1906, a colossal earthquake practically razed the city to the ground, killing over two thousand people. The disaster took a heavy toll on Valparaíso’s fortunes, which never really recovered. Eight years later, the opening of the Panama Canal signalled the city’s inexorable decline.

Modern Valpo

Today, Valparaíso wears a rundown, moth-eaten air. Crime and poverty are worse than elsewhere in Chile, the sex trade is still rampant, and at night parts of the town are dangerous. That said, it’s still a vital working port, moving thousands of containers annually, and has been the seat of Congress since the return to democracy in 1990. The port underwent a mini-economic boom in the early years of the new millennium, though the city’s inhabitants, known as Porteños, do not seem to have benefited enormously. As the capital of Region V, it also has its share of galleries and museums, but the city’s chief attractions lie in its crumbling, romantic atmosphere and stunning setting.

Most of Valparaíso’s fifteen ascensores , or funicular “lifts”, were built between 1883 and 1916 to provide a link between the lower town and the new residential quarters spreading up the hillsides. Today only a handful of them are still operating, and appearances would suggest that they’ve scarcely been modernized. However, despite their rickety frames and alarming noises, they’ve so far proved safe and reliable. What’s more, nearly all drop off passengers at a panoramic viewpoint. The ascensores generally operate every few minutes from 7am to 11pm, and cost around CH$300 one-way. Here are a few of the best, from east to west:

Ascensor Polanco

The most picturesque ascensor, and the only one that’s totally vertical, Polanco is on Calle Simpson, off Avenida Argentina (opposite Independencia). It’s approached through a cavernous, underground tunnel and rises 80m through a yellow wooden tower to a balcony that gives some of the best views in the city. A narrow bridge connects the tower to Cerro Polanco, with its flaking, pastel houses in varying states of repair.

Ascensor Concepción (also known as Ascensor Turri)

Hidden in a small passage opposite the Turri clock tower, at the corner of Prat and Almirante Carreño, this was the first ascensor to be built, in 1883, and was originally powered by steam. It takes you up to the beautiful residential area of Cerro Concepción, well worth a visit.

Ascensor El Peral

Next door to the Tribunales de Justicio, just off Plaza Sotomayor, this ascensor leads to one of the most romantic corners of the city: Paseo Yugoslavo, a little esplanade looking west onto some of Valparaíso’s most beautiful houses, and backed by a flamboyant mansion housing the Museo de Bellas Artes. It’s worth walking from here to Ascensor Concepción.

Ascensor Artillería

Always busy with tourists, but highly recommended for the stunning vistas at the top, from the Paseo 21 de Mayo. It was built in 1893 to transport cadets to and from the naval school at the top of the hill, now the site of the Museo Naval y Marítimo.

The resorts south of Valparaíso are among the busiest and most developed in the region. Most – including Algarrobo, El Tabo and Cartagena – sit on overcrowded beaches, are overrun with ugly apartment blocks and are jam-packed with noisy vacationers. However, a few places in the area are well worth a visit: peaceful Quintay, the vineyards of the Casablanca Valley, and – most notably – the village of Isla Negra, site of Pablo Neruda’s extraordinary house and now a museum.

Casa Museo Isla Negra

From 1939, poet Pablo Neruda spent forty years of his life, on and off, in the village of Isla Negra, enlarging his house and filling it with the strange and beautiful objects he ceaselessly gathered from far-flung corners of the world. The Fundación Neruda, acting on the wishes of the poet’s widow, Matilde Urrutia, transferred Neruda’s and Matilde’s graves to its garden and operates the house as the Casa Museo Isla Negra . Inside this museum, the winding passages and odd-shaped rooms are crammed full of fascinating exotic objects like ships’ figureheads, Hindu carvings, African and Japanese masks, ships in bottles, seashells, butterflies, coloured bottles, Victorian postcards and a good deal more.

There’s little else to Isla Negra save a small, pretty beach, which makes a great picnic spot.

Casablanca Valley wine route

The Casablanca Valley, famed for its excellent white wines, is accessed via Ruta 68, which connects Valparaíso and Viña with Santiago. Ruta del Vino Valle de Casablanca , Portales 90, in Casablanca, organizes tours of the wineries. You can also visit the vineyards independently; having your own car makes things a lot easier, but it is possible to visit some using the frequent Valparaíso/Viña–Santiago buses.

Of Chile’s 4000km-plus coastline, the brief central strip between Rocas de Santo Domingo and Los Vilos is the most visited and developed. Known as the Litoral Central, this 250km stretch boasts bay after bay lined with gorgeous, white-sand beaches, and a string of coastal resort towns. Valparaíso (“Valpo” for short) and Viña del Mar (or “Viña”) sit next to each other near the middle of the strip. They are geographical neighbours, but poles apart in appearance and atmosphere.

Viña is Chile’s largest beach resort and one of its ritziest. With its high-rises, casino, and seafront restaurants, as well as the beaches and clubs in nearby Reñaca, Viña typifies modern hedonism. Valparaíso, on the other hand, has far more personality, with ramshackle, colourful houses spilling chaotically down the hills to the sea (but no decent beaches). For stretches of sand, you’ll need to head south or north.

Closest to Santiago, via the “Autopista del Sol” (Ruta 78), are the resorts south of Valparaíso, which are busier and more developed. Further south, there’s an almost uninterrupted string of cabañas, villas and small, unappealing resorts. Even so, it’s still possible to find places with charm and soul, especially where Pablo Neruda found them, at Isla Negra – though it, too, is fast being swallowed up by development.

Heading north of Viña you leave most of the concrete behind at Concón, and from Horcón up, the coast begins to look more rugged and feels distinctly wild and windswept by the time you reach Maitencillo, where sandstone cliffs tower above a huge, white beach. The stretch from here to Papudo is easily the most beautiful of the region. Not even the new villas and second-home complexes that have sprung up along here have managed to spoil Zapallar, the most architecturally graceful of the resorts, or Papudo, a small town dramatically hemmed in by steep, green hills. Two more resorts lie further north: Los Vilos and Pichidangui.

Most Chileans take their annual holiday in February, when all the resort towns are unbearably crowded. They also get busy on December and January weekends, but outside these times are remarkably quiet. November and March are probably the best months to visit, as the weather is usually agreeable and the beaches virtually deserted, especially midweek. Even in summer, however, the coast is prone to fog or cloudy weather, and temperatures in Valpo can be considerably lower than in Santiago.

From April to October accommodation rates in Viňa are sometimes half of those listed, and even in November, December and March you should be able to negotiate a midweek discount; rates in Valpo are pretty stable throughout the year, save at New Year when they double or triple. Some, but not all, beaches are safe for swimming, though you should definitely stay out of the water if a red flag is displayed; you might also be put off by the frigid Humboldt current, which leaves the water chilly even in the height of summer.

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updated 26.04.2021

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• The Strategist Guide to Shopping at Quince

Anyone who has shopped at an online retailer with no physical storefronts knows how hard it can be to figure out where to begin. There are dozens upon dozens of options that all seem as worthy as the next, but the reality is that products from any given brand are not all created equal. When you shop as regularly as we do, you learn that many brands just do some things better than others. Quince, the five-year-old start-up that seems to make a little bit of everything, is one of those brands.

Given the company’s expansive — and growing — inventory (which includes everything from kids’ clothing to jewelry to luggage) and how young it is, we’ve been pleasantly surprised by how good so many of its products are. In fact, Quince items appear in our “Best in Class” guides across multiple bedding and clothing categories, including cashmere sweaters , jumpsuits suitable for sleep and socializing, and supersoft linen for lazy mornings. Here, we’ve compiled all of the products from Quince that our writers and editors have recommended on the Strategist. To help you sort through it all, we’ve organized this by bedding, clothing, loungewear and activewear, and outerwear and accessories.

Quince’s percale sheets earned our “Best in Class” crown for the very best cooling percale sheets , which are perfect for the warmer nights (or anyone who sleeps hot). Lauren Ro, our in-house bedding expert, says the sheets are “the crispest and most lightweight of all the bedding I have tried over the years” yet still “very smooth and nice to touch.” They are competitively priced at $100 for a queen-size set and kept Ro cool “during a summer heat wave with just the ceiling fan on, no AC.”

The brand’s cooling bamboo sheets are also Strategist-approved. “The first thing I noticed was how cool and silky they felt — just like real silk,” Ro noted while testing them. She ultimately named them the best affordable cooling organic-bamboo sheets because they also drape nicely, hold up well in the wash, and make sleeping feel “incredibly luxurious.”

Linen bedding has been a hot commodity over the past decade, and Quince makes our very favorite set thanks to its quality and affordable price. Strategist writer Dominique Pariso is a self-proclaimed hot sleeper and compares the brand’s linen to “a gauzy linen button-down you’d throw on at the height of July heat,” describing it as “superlight with a slightly textured weave.” The set includes a fitted and a flat sheet along with two pillowcases.

Ro is particularly fond of Quince’s linen duvet cover and named it the most affordable and softest linen duvet cover. “I love its lived-in, casual feel that never looks sloppy and only gets softer over time,” she writes.

For a smaller update to your linen closet, consider our favorite affordable linen pillowcase , which comes in a set of two for $40. On top of their Strategist-approved softness, the pillowcases are “prewashed, made of 100 percent European flax, and Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified, meaning they’re free of harmful chemicals,” reports Strategist junior writer Brenley Goertzen.

We’re also big fans of Quince’s silk pillowcase , which Strategist writer Tembe Denton-Hurst declared the “best silk pillowcase overall.” Silk pillowcases offer multiple hair and skin benefits, including cutting down on frizz, helping preserve hairstyles, and avoiding split ends, which Denton-Hurst observed during testing. She appreciates its convenient zip closure and range of colors as well as Quince’s generous return policy: “You’ll have 365 days from the date of purchase to decide if it’s right for you,” Denton-Hurst says.

While Quince’s selection of Strategist-approved bedding is extensive, it also sells a solid rug that caught the attention of Strategist senior editor Simone Kitchens. Its fibers are made from recycled bottles, and it’s available in two colors — a textured navy blue and slate gray — as well as five sizes. Since the rug is made to order, it will arrive seven to eight weeks after purchase.

One of Quince’s most well-known items is its wildly affordable cashmere crewneck, which is our favorite affordable cashmere sweater for both men and women. Arielle Avila, our resident cashmere expert, describes it as “supersoft with a slight slickness to it.” It also has detailed ribbing on the neck, cuffs, and hem. After owning the women’s cashmere sweater for about a year, Avila did observe some pilling on the sleeves and at the waist — but pilling will almost always eventually happen with cashmere sweaters and is usually fixable with a fabric shaver .

Quince’s Mongolian-cashmere polo sweater is another one of our best-in-class sweater picks. Avila found herself reaching for it especially frequently during the fall “because it’s breezy and has a somewhat less conventional cut.” She describes it as having the “same lightweight and buttery softness” as Quince’s crewneck and a just-as-good price.

When Quince released its maternity collection at the beginning of 2023, many styles, including this V-necked button-front dress, sold out within a couple weeks. The brand has since restocked its selection, so this flowy and comfortable dress, which caught our eye for its ’90s-style design, is available in a deep sky blue, heather gray, and black. It’s made from supersoft Tencel, so you can look elegant without sacrificing comfort.

Loungewear and activewear

Given that Quince’s bedding is so beloved, it only seems logical that the brand would also make stellar pajamas . This duo makes up our favorite silk-pajama pant set , and Strategist senior writer Liza Corsillo describes its texture to be like “blueberries or grapes early in the morning that have a little frostiness to their skin.” She has found that the separates are temperature regulating, too, helping to hold heat on chilly nights and maintaining a nice airiness on warm ones.

If silk shorts are more your speed, consider this pair that Strategist writer Ambar Pardilla tested. They’re especially well suited for those who like to show a little leg: Even on her five-foot-two frame, Pardilla says the shorts are “definitely on the cropped side.” But she says the shorts are impressively well made, especially for the price.

Pardilla named this all-in-one the best lounge jumpsuit and the best sleep jumpsuit because it is “supersoft, worn-in, and doesn’t pill in the wash.” She especially likes it for summertime because “without sleeves and with a low V-neck and keyhole in the back, the style is actually pretty airy.” And when she wants to wear it in public, she can adjust the waistband a little higher for a more tailored effect or lower for a “laid-back and looser” look.

Pardilla named Quince’s Organic Turkish Waffle Robe the best waffle bathrobe for its irresistible price tag and light, gauzy texture. But if you’re prone to shivering after the shower, “the robe’s thinness means it’s not the one for you,” she says.

Quince’s extensive line of activewear spans leggings , dresses , and jumpsuits . When the brand first launched the collection in 2022, this affordable pair of biker shorts caught our attention. They come in seven colors and are partially made from sustainable materials like recycled polyester.

Outerwear and accessories

After testing a number of jackets for our guide to the best parkas , Strategist writer Katherine Gillespie reports that Quince’s down parka is “an almost identical Super Puff dupe,” offering a similar logoless anonymity and minimalist silhouette for nearly half the price. It even has thumbholes, fuzzy pockets, and a removable hood, the latter of which Gillespie says “might actually be an improvement on the Super Puff’s design.”

Quince added sunglasses to its lineup in the summer of 2023 and offers 40 pairs in shapes like a classic aviator and cute cat’s-eye . The glasses feature durable and scratch-resistant polarized lenses and frames made from ecofriendly acetate.

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , natural anxiety remedies , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

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When is the 2024 total solar eclipse? Your guide to glasses, forecast, where to watch.

Editor's note: An early cloud forecast for the April 2024 total solar eclipse is in. Read the latest eclipse forecast and news as of Friday, March 29 .

We're less than two weeks away from the astronomical event of the decade: A total eclipse of the sun , which will grace the nation's skies from Texas to Maine on the afternoon of Monday, April 8 .

Millions of people are expected to travel to see the spectacle, which will also attract scientists from across the country to study its unique effects on the Earth and its atmosphere . (Meanwhile, brands such as Burger King, Pizza Hut, Applebee's and Sonic are getting in on the eclipse excitement too.)

The full total solar eclipse experience will plunge people along a narrow path into darkness midday, but people outside the path of totality can still use eclipse glasses to see the moon pass in front of the sun. It's an awesome and confusing sight on the ground and in the sky.

One task to do now is to get yourself a pair of special eclipse glasses (and luckily there's still time to score a free pair of eclipse glasses ). They're important eyewear during an eclipse because they will block out the sun's harmful rays, which could damage your eyes when you're looking at the sun — even if it's partially blocked.

Solar eclipse glasses are still readily available from plenty of vendors across the internet as of Thursday, March 28. But be wary of counterfeit or fake glasses , experts warned.

The other big factor everyone's anxiously awaiting is the weather forecast, which most experts say is still a bit far away for a specific forecast, though that hasn't stopped some meteorologists from issuing them already. But more detailed, realistic forecasts will start to roll in over the next few days.

Of particular interest will be the cloud forecast , as a deck of thick, low clouds would likely ruin the entire event. But if the clouds are higher up in the atmosphere, such as thin, wispy cirrus , they'd act to diffuse but not ruin the eclipse.

USA TODAY 10Best: 10 solar eclipse fun facts to share with your friends

There's plenty to know before the big day, which won't happen again for about two decades . Read on for answers for all your eclipse questions, including how to watch the eclipse , understand the eclipse and use eclipse glasses to stay safe .

WATCHING THE APRIL 2024 ECLIPSE

How do i watch the 2024 solar eclipse.

There are a few ways of watching the eclipse:

• Get the full experience in person : If you're in a narrow band of U.S. land that spans from Texas to Maine, you will see the moon block the sun and its shadow cast a night-like darkness over Earth for a few minutes. You'll briefly be able to look up without eye protection and see the moon block the sun.
• Watch from outside the path of totality : Much of the U.S. will get a partial view of the eclipse that isn't nearly as impressive as being in the path of totality. Earth won't be plunged into complete darkness and you'll have to wear protective eyewear to see the moon partially block the sun.
• Watch a livestream : Check back on April 8 for a video feed from the path of totality. It's not the same as being there in person, but hey, at least you won't have to sit in traffic .

Totality explained: The real April 2024 total solar eclipse happens inside the path of totality

What time is the solar eclipse on April 8?

The eclipse will begin in Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT and end in Maine at 3:35 p.m. EDT, but the exact time of the eclipse varies by where you are in its path.

You can search by zip code to find the exact time for your location.

Where will the April eclipse be visible?

All of the lower 48 U.S. states will see the moon at least clip the sun, but that sight is a trifle compared to being in the path of totality.

Because the narrow path includes or is near some of the nation's largest cities, expect millions of people to crowd into a band of land a little over 100 miles wide that spans from the Texas/Mexico border to the Maine/Canada border.

Here are the major cities in each state where you can expect to experience totality (note that the included times do not account for when the partial eclipse begins and ends):

• Dallas, Texas: 1:40-1:44 p.m. CDT
• Idabel, Oklahoma: 1:45-1:49 p.m. CDT
• Little Rock, Arkansas: 1:51-1:54 p.m. CDT
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri: 1:56-2:00 p.m. CDT
• Paducah, Kentucky: 2-2:02 p.m. CDT
• Carbondale, Illinois: 1:59-2:03 p.m. CDT
• Evansville, Indiana: 2:02-2:05 p.m. CDT
• Cleveland, Ohio: 3:13-3:17 p.m. EDT
• Erie, Pennsylvania: 3:16-3:20 p.m. EDT
• Buffalo, New York: 3:18-3:22 p.m. EDT
• Burlington, Vermont: 3:26-3:29 p.m. EDT
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: 3:27-3:30 p.m. EDT
• Caribou, Maine: 3:32-3:34 p.m. EDT

Will clouds block the April 2024 eclipse?

It's too soon to say for sure, but history offers some clues.

Chances of cloudy skies are pretty high along much of the eclipse's northern path, and some areas such as Buffalo have about a 1-in-3 chance of clear skies in early April.

Skies are usually more clear to the south. Right along the Texas/Mexico border, chances of a clear sky can be nearly 75%.

Keep in mind that clouds don't always ruin an eclipse . High, wispy clouds won't spoil the show in the same way that low thick clouds would. In that case, you wouldn't be able to see the moon pass in front of the sun, but you would still notice a sudden darkness in the path of totality.

What dangers are associated with the eclipse?

The  eclipse , as exciting and fun as it promises to be, comes with a growing number of safety warnings — both for what will happen in the sky and what will happen on the ground.

In addition to the dangers of looking at the eclipse without proper eyewear, we've heard warnings about potentially dangerous  fake eclipse glasses , the possibility for increased  car  c rashes  around the time of the eclipse — and possible  air travel headaches  due to delayed or cancelled flights.

Where is the best place to watch the eclipse?

Texas is considered the best state for eclipse viewing . There's a good chance the skies will be clear and its location along the southern path of the eclipse means totality will last a little longer.

A few lucky travelers will also have a front-row seat with unobstructed views — from a plane .

Will traffic be bad?

Most likely, yes — especially after the eclipse ends . Millions of people will crowd into the narrow path of totality, then many will attempt to leave all at once as soon as the eclipse is over.

When a total solar eclipse passed over the U.S. in 2017, reports say some traffic jams didn't fully clear for more than 12 hours. Even worse, a recent study reported that the 2017 eclipse "was associated with increased risks of a fatal traffic crash" – potentially as much as a 31% increase, the study said .

Also worth noting: The eclipse is expected to have impacts for air travel as well.

Why are schools closing for the eclipse?

Primarily out of a concern for students' safety, schools across the country have given students  the day of the eclipse, April 8,  as a day off, a half day or a chance for e-learning. In Tennessee, for example, officials also say it gives students a chance  to experience the eclipse with their family and friends .

UNDERSTANDING THE 2024 ECLIPSE

What is a solar eclipse definition explained..

A total solar eclipse happens when three celestial spheres — the sun, moon and Earth — line up in a specific way in space.

According to NASA, a solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and Earth. That alignment casts a moving shadow on Earth that either fully or partially blocks the sun's light in some areas. This leads to a period of partial or full darkness on a narrow stretch of Earth. 

The path is so narrow because of the huge distance and size of the sun — as well as the moon's distance from Earth. That focuses the moon's shadow on an area of land much smaller than the moon itself. The movement of the shadow across the land happens as the Earth's rotation interacts with the orbit of the moon.

A total eclipse only happens occasionally because the moon doesn't orbit in the exact same plane as the sun and Earth do. In addition, a solar eclipse can only happen during a new moon.

What's special about a total solar eclipse?

The total solar eclipse on April 8  is causing such a stir because the rare event is an astronomical experience like no other that will be unusually accessible to millions of people.

April's total solar eclipse will fall over more places in the U.S. than the total eclipse before and after it. And the broad length of the path of totality – where Americans have the best shot of getting a clear view – is "much wider"  than it was for the eclipse in 2017 , according to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

A total solar eclipse is also far more impressive  than a lunar or an annular solar eclipse. During an annular eclipse, the moon covers the Sun but leaves an outside ring some call a "ring of fire" — it darkens the sky instead of plunging Earth into a night-like darkness, which is what happens during a total solar eclipse. And a lunar eclipse – the appearance of a red moon – happens when the moon passes into the Earth's shadow, according to NASA.

Total solar eclipses can have spiritual significance, too . Ancient cultures viewed as a sign of the gods' anger or impending departure. Some religions today are hosting eclipse viewings and services.

Historically, eclipses have left major marks on religious and spiritual civilizations. In Christianity, an eclipse has been associated with the darkness that accompanied Jesus' crucifixion and in Islam, the passing of the Prophet Muhammad's son Ibrahim.

When was the last solar eclipse?

The USA's most recent total solar eclipse was on August 21, 2017, and stretched from Oregon to South Carolina.

When will the next solar eclipse happen?

The  next visible total solar eclipse  to cross over the U.S. after April will come in more than two decades on Aug. 23, 2044, according to NASA.

And that eclipse won't be as accessible as the 2024 one: The path of totality in 2044 will only touch the states of Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, according to the Planetary Society, a nonprofit involved in research, public outreach and political space advocacy. Another total eclipse  will pass over the U.S. in 2045  that will be more accessible to Americans, including for people who live in California, Florida and Nevada.

ECLIPSE GLASSES AND SAFETY

What are eclipse glasses and why are they needed for the eclipse.

Gazing at the bright rays from the eclipse without  protective eyewear  can seriouslt damage your eye, so wearing a pair of protective glasses is important.

There's a technical standard for eclipse glasses, which are designed to block out most light and let you safely see the moon pass in front of the sun: It's called ISO 12312-2 after the International Organization of Standardization.

While there's concerns that not all glasses marketed as eclipse glasses live up to that standard, experts say usually the shortcomings aren't significant .

But as the 2024 eclipse approaches, the American Astronomical Society  has warned that there are some counterfeit and fake eclipse glasses being sold from unverified vendors that would be unsafe to use during the eclipse. They recommend buying from a vetted vendor and testing the glasses before the eclipse.

How do I get solar eclipse glasses?

You should buy from a reputable source who can ship the glasses to you in time for April 8. A guide to last-minute eclipse glasses explains more.

How can you test eclipse glasses?

NASA shared an easy method to check eclipse glasses at home.

Buyers should put on their glasses and look at a bright light, like a flashlight. If the light is "extremely dim," or doesn't appear at all, the glasses are safe, Susannah Darling, of NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, said in an instructional video. Viewers should be able to see the filament of the lightbulb, not the glow surrounding the bulb.

Can you really go blind watching a solar eclipse?

You could severely damage your eyes . Directly staring at the sun before and after the total eclipse, or watching a partial eclipse outside the path of totality without proper eye protection, can result in permanent damage including blurred and altered vision.

While rare, eye damage from watching a partial eclipse happens in part because a person's natural response to squint when looking at sunlight does not get triggered. In the lead-up to the  April 8 solar eclipse ,  doctors and a rare set of eclipse watchers are warning about  watching this planetary event without adequate eclipse glasses or with the naked eye.

It’s hard for experts to know or even estimate how many people experience eye damage from solar eclipses. Since looking at an eclipse does not cause complete blindness, people with permanent damage may not know they have it or report it to a doctor. The 2017 eclipse , which passed from Oregon to South Carolina, is thought to have caused about 100 cases, according to the  American Astronomical Society .

How can I watch the eclipse without glasses?

If you don't have access to eclipse glasses do not use regular sunglasses — You need a more creative solution for safe viewing, like a pinhole projector .

Welding glasses are not recommended for eclipse viewing .

Should I take dogs or cats to see the eclipse? Is it safe for pets?

An eclipse itself isn't dangerous for domestic animals such as dogs and cats, but experts say it's probably best to not bring pets .

Experts' biggest concern is not what’s happening in the sky but on the ground as crowds of excited and anxious people gather, said Dr. Rena Carlson, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association.

“Rather than the effects of the eclipse, I would be more worried about the excitement and all of the people,” she said.

Contributing: Ramon Padilla, Karina Zaiets and Janet Loehrke

Bridges are their nightmare. The Baltimore collapse made it a reality.

The collapse of the francis scott key bridge leads to a spike in anxiety for fearful travelers.

On Tuesday, while the country was transfixed on the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, psychiatrist Elias Aboujaoude heard from two of his clients in California who each suffer from acrophobia, the fear of heights. They told the Stanford Medicine clinical professor they were trying to find out whether they had crossed the bridge on previous trips to the East Coast.

“It’s exacerbating their anxiety because it’s proving to them that their fear of bridges and their fear of heights is not unreasonable — that … this could have happened to them when they were on this bridge,” Aboujaoude said.

Baltimore bridge collapse

The horrifying scene of an out-of-control cargo ship taking down an 185-foot-tall bridge has triggered anxiety in people who struggle with several fears, including claustrophobia, amaxophobia (driving) and gephyrophobia (crossing bridges). It’s not a far leap to watch video of the collapse and picture yourself falling into the Patapsco River. For some, it feels like a bad dream came true.

Retired sales executive Dave Scarangella, 67, wrote on X on Tuesday that the Key Bridge collapse was his “recurring nightmare in real life.” He gets panic attacks on high bridges, he wrote — and more than a dozen people replied to share their own fears.

“I don’t know if it’s an innate fear of control, that the car will somehow take a right turn and dive into the water or something,” Scarangella said in an interview Wednesday, noting that the fear really grips him at the top. “It doesn’t make any sense.”

Taking lengths to avoid bridges

Bridges are a part of daily life for many. They factor into our holidays and vacations. People like Scarangella, of Ashburn, Va., may plot an elaborate course to circumvent an anxiety-inducing crossing.

Aboujaoude said one patient’s commute is three hours instead of the 30 minutes it would take to use a bridge. Scarangella said he has delegated bridge driving to colleagues and family members for years. He has avoided the Francis Scott Key Bridge and the Bay Bridge in Maryland. Family getaways are carefully planned.

“Wherever we choose to vacation won’t have a high bridge there,” he said. “And if we were to come across one by accident, we would look at a map and drive around it.”

At several bridges around the country, nervous drivers can hand their car keys over to a professional driver. The escort programs are run by a mix of bridge operators and private transportation companies.

The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel in Virginia has been assisting nervous drivers since at least the 1990s. In 2006, the authorities formalized the free program, which is available year-round.

“We get just as many calls in the middle of the night as we do in the middle of the day,” said Corporal Spencer Parks.

Travelers in passenger cars should book in advance, preferably 24 hours before their arrival time. They will meet an emergency crew worker at either end of the bridge and pay the toll ($16 or $21, depending on the season). If a crew member is not available — their other responsibilities include driving wreckers and assisting in the toll booth — a police officer might take the wheel.

Edward Spencer, the director of operations and chief of police for the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and Tunnel District, said 500 to 600 people request an escort each year. Spencer, who was answering the phone Tuesday night, said he highly doubts the Key Bridge collapse will cause an uptick in calls.

Drivers can get a hand crossing the Chesapeake Bay Bridge in Maryland from the Kent Island Express , which promises to “let you relax and enjoy the ride and the view.” The service, which is not affiliated with the Maryland Transportation Authority, costs $40 in cash and $50 by credit card during regular business hours, according to the website. Drivers need to give at least an hour of advance notice.

Patty MacEwan, 60, used Kent Island Express a couple of years ago when she needed to attend a work meeting on the Eastern Shore. She said it was worth the cost. While short bridges made of concrete don’t bother her much, she has issues driving on bridges with grates where the water is visible and long bridges.

It was a windy day when she used the service, and “I thought to myself, ‘God, I’m so glad you did this,’” she said. “Because I’ve driven over that bridge before and it just is a white-knuckle experience for me.”

MacEwan, now retired from fundraising for nonprofits, called the company and scheduled a meeting time, then followed up when she was nearby. A young woman got into the Chevrolet Spark at a spot near the bridge; another employee followed them over, and the driver pulled over near a business on the other side, where MacEwan took over again.

“Very efficient,” said MacEwan, who lived in Alexandria, Va., at the time and now lives in New York state. She remembers complimenting the driver on how well she was doing, even if she wasn’t technically watching what was going on. “I probably closed my eyes,” she said.

The 440-foot-high Delaware Memorial Bridge , which spans the Delaware River, offers a similar program. Travelers, who should call 10 to 15 minutes ahead of time, will receive directions to a safe pull-off where they can wait for an officer. Dispatcher Dionna Glasglow said they typically receive a bump in calls over the holidays and on days with extreme weather — excessively windy or rainy or spectacularly sunny.

“Summer is a huge peak time for us,” she said.

The service is free, but the car owner must pay the $5 toll.

The roughly five-mile-long Mackinac Bridge, which connects Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, has offered an assistance program to nervous drivers since the 1980s. Partly to blame for those nerves: high winds, which can prompt advisories and closures — and cause the bridge to move.

At all hours, any day of the week, drivers can make a request for a bridge staffer to drive their car across the “Mighty Mac.”

The service was suspended in the early days of the pandemic, but it returned in late 2021. By then, officials had reviewed the cost of the formerly free program and decided users needed to pay. The cost now: $10 plus toll per trip, increasing to $15 in 2025. The average cost to provide the service is about $33 per trip, according to the Mackinac Bridge Authority.

Overcoming fears through exposure

The fear of bridges can be a singular phobia or a tangle of anxieties, such as driving, heights, loss of control, tight spaces or mistrust of infrastructure. The type of bridge could also trigger a panic attack.

“For some people, it’s how high the bridges are. For other people, it’s the structure of the bridge, or the length, or whether it’s over water,” said Martin Antony , a psychology professor at Toronto Metropolitan University. “Of course, there are people who are afraid of all bridges.”

Robert Dupont , a clinical professor of psychiatry at Georgetown University, said he did not encounter patients who feared a bridge collapse. They were afraid of their own behavior while driving across a bridge — like jumping off it.

“It’s a common phobia,” he said, adding that “it’s one of the phobias that people keep a secret. Driving across a bridge becomes something they won’t do. This [collapse] may prompt people to confront it again.”

Antony, who wrote a book about overcoming fears, said the most effective and evidence-based therapy involves exposure. He takes his clients to bridges, where the patient or a friend of the individual will repeatedly drive across the structure. The idea is to exorcise the fear by normalizing the experience.

“We will go back and forth long enough for the people to learn that whatever they are predicting isn’t going to happen,” he said. “Their fear comes down over time, usually.”

“The only treatment is to do it,” DuPont said. “You’ve got to get on the bridge and do it often. … The peace lies on the other side of the fear.”

For the cognitive segment of therapy, Aboujaoude uses rationalization techniques, such as pointing out how his client’s worst fears rarely materialize. For the behavioral portion of treatment, he will safely and gradually expose them to their fears through virtual reality and other technologies.

He said bridge escort programs are a “Band-Aid,” but not a long-term solution. The traveler won’t always have this service or the time or logistics to circumvent bridges. To expel their fears, they need to face them head-on.

“A small minority of patients with acrophobia actually seek treatment,” he said. “Most of them deal with it through avoidance.”

Scarangella, the retired executive in Virginia, said he has watched videos of drives over bridges “in the interest of trying to cure myself,” and found his heart rate elevated after watching. He’s skeptical more treatment would help.

“The only thing a therapist could really do for me is drive me over the bridge,” he said.

Marlene Cimons contributed to this report.

Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed after being hit by a cargo ship , sending at least eight people from a construction crew into the water. Follow live updates and see photos from the scene .

How it happened: The container ship lost power shortly before hitting the bridge, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) said. Video shows the bridge collapse in under 40 seconds.

Victims: Divers recovered the bodies of two construction workers who died , while finding other vehicles trapped and probably containing the other victims, officials said. They were fathers, husbands and hard workers . The entire crew aboard the container ship Dali survived . First responders shut down most traffic on the four-lane bridge after the crew issued an urgent mayday call. It saved lives, Moore said.

Economic impact: The collapse of the bridge, which severed ocean links to the Port of Baltimore, adds a fresh headache to already struggling global supply chains . See how the collapse will disrupt the supply of cars, coal and other goods .

History: The Key Bridge was built in the 1970s and spanned the Patapsco River. Rebuilding the bridge will probably take years and cost hundreds of millions of dollars, experts said.

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Why Do I Feel Gassy on Airplanes?

There are a few reasons that air travel can cause bloating. We have tips for making your next flight more comfortable.

Credit... Joyce Lee for The New York Times

Supported by

By Alice Callahan

• Published March 26, 2024 Updated March 27, 2024

Q: I often feel uncomfortably bloated during flights. Why is that, and is there anything I can do about it?

A day of air travel can throw a wrench into the inner workings of your digestive system, causing gas, bloating and the need to release some pressure.

That tightness you feel in your waistband on a flight? “This is a real thing,” said Dr. Melissa Hershman, a gastroenterologist at Oregon Health and Science University.

Some people — such as those with irritable bowel syndrome — are bothered by airplane gas and bloating more than others, said Dr. Baha Moshiree, a gastroenterologist at Atrium Health Wake Forest in Charlotte, N.C.

But, she said, understanding the causes of these symptoms can help you strategize how to avoid them.

Why air travel makes you gassy

We always have some gas in our digestive tracts. We swallow air when eating and drinking, Dr. Hershman said, and our gut microbes also produce gas.

When an airplane climbs and cabin pressure drops, that normal amount of gas expands, taking up more space in your stomach and intestines, she said. This is similar to what happens to a bag of chips or a plastic water bottle, Dr. Moshiree added. “It becomes all puffy.”

There isn’t much research on the topic, but in a 1969 study , 18 military men “agreed to avoid passing of gas” during a simulated flight. As their simulated altitude climbed from ground level to nearly 30,000 feet, their average abdominal gas more than quadrupled.

Being at high altitude also seems to slow down the muscle contractions that keep the contents of your digestive system moving, Dr. Moshiree said. Experts don’t know why this happens, she added. But it’s one reason that you may feel constipated on airplane travel days , and a sluggish gut can also allow more gas to build up.

Sitting for hours during a long flight doesn’t help, Dr. Hershman said — walking and other physical activity normally help keep the gastrointestinal tract “moving along.”

Travel stress and anxiety can also worsen gas and bloating, said Megan Riehl, a gastrointestinal psychologist at Michigan Medicine.

How to prevent and cope with gas while traveling

You can’t change the altitude or air pressure of your plane. But if flying makes you gassy and bloated, experts have suggestions for your next trip.

Watch what you eat. Starting the day before your departure, avoid foods that you know make you gassy, said Tamara Duker Freuman, a dietitian in New York City who specializes in digestive conditions. Common culprits include high FODMAP foods like beans, onions, garlic, wheat, and certain nuts, dairy products and fruits.

On your travel day, continue to avoid these foods. Consider packing meals or snacks that sit well with you, Dr. Riehl added, so you aren’t at the mercy of what’s available in the airport.

Stay hydrated. “Hydration is key” for avoiding constipation, which can worsen gas and bloating, Dr. Moshiree said. Bring a refillable water bottle so that you can sip water throughout the day. And avoid alcohol the day before and the day of travel, since it can be dehydrating, she added.

Coffee has a bad reputation for being dehydrating, but there’s no evidence that it is — or that coffee increases bloating, Ms. Freuman said.

For some people, carbonated beverages can increase gas symptoms, Ms. Freuman said. But for others, seltzer may help them burp a bit and reduce gas buildup. “Know thyself,” she said, and choose your beverages accordingly.

Use medications and supplements as needed. You can consider taking an over-the-counter medication like Gas-X or Mylanta before your flight, Dr. Hershman said. Or try an enzyme supplement like Beano or Fodzyme before eating, which may help reduce gas produced from digestion, she added.

Avoid gum. Chewing gum may ease ear discomfort while flying, but it can also cause you to swallow more air, Dr. Hershman said. If you’re concerned about bloating, try skipping the gum or limiting your chewing, she said.

Move your body. If you can, get up from your seat every hour or so, Ms. Freuman said. Try to find some space to reach toward your toes, or twist your midsection from side to side. These movements can help the gas spread out in your gut rather than pooling in one spot, she said.

Breathe deeply. If you’re stuck in your seat, diaphragmatic breathing may help reduce stress and relax your gut, Dr. Riehl said.

First, take a four-second inhale through your nose and feel your belly rising, she explained. Then, exhale for six seconds through your mouth and feel your belly fall.

‘Let it go.’ If gas is causing pain or discomfort, holding it in will make you feel worse, Dr. Riehl added. “It’s healthy to just let it out.”

Walk to the bathroom if you can. But if that’s not an option, let the engine noise be your cover and “just let it go,” she said.

“Trust me,” she said, “you’re not the only one farting on an airplane.”

Alice Callahan is a Times reporter covering nutrition and health. She has a Ph.D. in nutrition from the University of California, Davis. More about Alice Callahan

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Lou Whittaker, legendary mountaineer and Rainier guide, dead at 95

Lou Whittaker, a Seattle-born and -raised mountaineer and glacier travel guide who climbed Mount Rainier more than 250 times, died Sunday at 95.

His nephew, Leif Whittaker, on Wednesday morning confirmed Lou’s death. He died peacefully surrounded by family, Leif Whittaker said. Lou Whittaker had been living with congestive heart failure for several years, his son Peter Whittaker said Wednesday.

As the co-founder of Rainier Mountaineering, Inc., now known as RMI Expeditions, Lou Whittaker spent decades teaching and guiding thousands of people to the majestic, 14,411-foot summit. Peter Whittaker now owns the business.

Lou Whittaker himself had also climbed dozens of giant, difficult peaks across the world — Denali, Everest, K2 and Kanchenjunga among many others — surviving multiple avalanches along the way. His identical twin brother, Jim, was the first American to scale Mount Everest.

Sometimes called “ The First Family of American Mountaineering ,” the Whittaker twins began mountain rescue work in the Washington Cascades in 1948.

Lou Whittaker started climbing with Jim at age 12. When the twins were 16, they returned from a climb to find people in the midst of celebration: World War II had ended. 

By 18, Lou Whittaker had climbed all the major peaks in Washington.

The brothers quickly built a reputation as being among the most skilled climbers in the Pacific Northwest. After his brother gained international fame for becoming the first American to climb Everest in 1963, Lou Whittaker — who had declined to join the expedition — said if he had, “Fifty feet from the top, we’d have wrestled there in the snow to see who’d be the first up.”

The twins taught climbing skills in the Rockies during the Korean War to an elite group of soldiers — the 10th Mountain Division.

In 1969, Lou Whittaker helped form Rainier Mountaineering, Inc . His vision for the company was to establish a guide service dedicated to teaching climbers, going beyond just leading them to help build skills. 

In 1984, he led the first successful American summit of the North Col of Mount Everest. In 1989, the adventurer led the first American expedition of 12 climbers up Kanchenjunga, in the Himalayas, the world’s third-highest peak, and got six people to the summit.

His career included guiding several politicians and celebrities up Mount Rainier, including John F. Kennedy Jr. (who had to turn around because of a storm on that climb). When an avalanche killed 11 climbers in 1981 as they ascended Mount Rainier, Lou and Jim Whittaker were part of the rescue party. He also served as a product designer and consultant for several outdoor gear companies.

Despite his legendary career, Lou Whittaker’s love of his backyard playground, Mount Rainier, lasted through the decades. During a 2022 interview with Gear Patrol, he said “Rainier has everything that you need for any mountain in the world.” The mountain’s glacial nature makes it more challenging and akin to many of the world’s highest ranges, Lou Whittaker said several times. 

Lou Whittaker and his wife, Ingrid, spent their summers in Ashford during their nearly 55-year marriage. Lou Whittaker’s two sons, Peter and Win , summitted Mount Rainier for the first time at age 12, seven years apart. Between the three of them, they had summitted Rainier nearly 700 times by 2022. 

Lou Whittaker is also survived by his two granddaughters and one grandson.

When a Seattle Times reporter asked Lou Whittaker “Why do you climb a mountain” in 1989, he replied: “If you have to ask, you wouldn’t understand if I told you.”

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