valparaiso chile travel

• Huasco Valley
• San Pedro de Atacama
• Elqui Valley
• Antofagasta
• Limarí – Fray Jorge National Park
• Bahía Inglesa
• Alto El Loa
• La Serena and Coquimbo
• Copiapó Valley
• Tagua Tagua – Almahue Valley
• Alto Colchagua Universidad Glacier 
• Cachapoal Valley
• Portillo Ski Resort
• Pirque and Maipo Valley
• Aconcagua Valley
• Valle Nevado Ski Resort
• El Colorado Ski Resort
• Curicó Valley
• Maule Valley
• San Antonio/Leyda Valley
• Colchagua Valley and Santa Cruz
• Casablanca Valley
• Viña del Mar
• Cajón del Maipo
• Robinson Crusoe Island
• Rancagua and Sewell
• La Parva Ski Resort
• Rano Raraku
• Llanquihue Lake
• Chillan Ski Resort
• Puerto Montt
• Osorno and Puyehue
• Valdivia and Corral
• Pucón and Villarrica
• Panguipulli
• Temuco and Lago Budi
• Arauco Territory
• Puerto Varas
• Chilean Antarctic Destination
• General Carrera Lake
• Tierra del Fuego
• Coyhaique and Puerto Aysén
• Carretera Austral
• Torres del Paine
• Puerto Natales
• Punta Arenas
• Family recreation
• Coastal beaches
• Lakeside Beaches
• Hot Springs
• Spa and relaxation
• Patagonian cruises
• Lake sailing
• International cruises
• Visits to observatories
• Astronomical facilities
• Indigenous Peoples and Ethnotourism
• World Heritage Sites
• Archaeology
• Paleontology
• Poetry and Literature
• Typical gastronomy
• Gastronomy of the world
• Hiking y trekking
• Skiing and snowboarding
• Mountainbike
• Horseback Riding
• Mountain and rock climbing
• Sport fishing
• Kitesurfing and water sports
• Ice walking
• Overland 4×4
• Paragliding and aerial sports
• Wildlife watching
• Landscape photography
• National Parks
• Bird Watching

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!

Find information on how to get to this destination

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.

Explore Valparaiso

Plan your trip to valparaiso: best of valparaiso tourism.

Essential Valparaiso

Trending in the forums

Valparaiso Is Great For

Wine tastings.

Cultural Tours

The great outdoors

Ports of Call Tours

• Casa Galos Hotel & Lofts
• Winebox Valparaiso
• Hotel Casa Higueras
• Palacio Astoreca Hotel
• Casablu Hotel
• Restaurant La Concepcion
• Il Paparazzo
• Fauna Restaurant
• Restaurant Maralegre
• Portofino Restaurant
• La Sebastiana
• Cerro Concepción
• Cerro Alegre
• Ascensor Reina Victoria
• Plaza Sotomayor
• Wild Penguins,Birds,Sandboard,Chilean Drinks & Food/From Valpo
• Valparaíso, History & Art. Graffiti & Private Optional
• Private walking tour in Valparaíso
• Chilean Cuisine Cooking Class with Traditional Market Tour
• Valpo in 1 day: Authentic + Famous! Semi-private walking tour & public transport

Guide to Vina del Mar

Best Wineries in Chile

Things to Do in Chile

Things to Do in Santiago

Must-Try Food

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Airports in Chile

Best Santiago Hotels

One-Week Itinerary for Chile

Best Places to Visit in Chile

Beach Destinations

Top National Parks

Guide to Chilean Patagonia

Guide to Valparaiso

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.

20 Best Things to Do in Barcelona

Top 15 Destinations in Chile

The Best Backpacking Destinations in South America

Viña del Mar, Chile: The Complete Guide

One Week in Chile: The Ultimate Itinerary

The 15 Best Things to Do in Santiago, Chile

The 20 Best Things to Do in Chile

Your Trip to the Amalfi Coast: The Complete Guide

The 14 Best Day Trips from Rome

The Top 20 Things to Do in San Diego, California

20 Best Things to Do in Florence, Italy

Kyoto Guide: Planning Your Trip

Your Trip to Shanghai: The Complete Guide

The 27 Best Things To Do in Miami

The Top 12 Things to Do in Medellin, Colombia

Your Trip to Sao Paulo: The Complete Guide

National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here

A guide to Valparaíso, Chile's wildly creative coastal city

​Long associated with poets and folk heroes, the free-spirited Chilean port city is today a canvas for the country’s best street artists. Explore its steep lanes and find galleries, dive bars and restaurants marching to the beat of their own drums.

Leaping from his car, Al Ramirez grabs a spray can from the boot and furiously gets to work. “In the street, all you have is your reputation,” says the incensed graffiti artist, as he retouches one of his murals, recently defaced with dripping scrawl. “When someone paints over your work, it’s like spitting in your face.”

Al, who’s on a mission to create the first guild of urban artists, is one of more than 400 artists in the Chilean port city of Valparaíso, where the authorities now accept graffiti as part of the city’s culture and appeal. Almost every shop front, house and pavement has been decorated to create one of the world’s largest unofficial open-air museums of street art. No wonder, then, graffitists are running out of space.

Valpo, as it’s affectionately known, is wide open to interpretation. To some, it’s nothing more than a scruffy, rundown town, where stray dogs howl long into the night; for others, it’s a bastion of liberation, freedom of speech and unfettered creativity, where lost, abandoned souls can find a happy home.  

Acceptance, equality and opportunity were building blocks for Valpo’s foundation. A port of call for commercial ships crossing the Atlantic and Pacific via the Strait of Magellan, it attracted thousands of immigrants in the late 1800s. But following the construction of the Panama Canal in 1914, its sparkle disappeared as traders switched to a more convenient route.

Abandoned mansions and brightly coloured houses still cover Valpo’s 45 hills. Towards the port, palm trees gifted from Brazil, an archway built by the British and what was Latin America’s first stock exchange all stand as vestiges of a time when money flowed as easily as the spray paint does today.  

This unplanned city has always embraced chaos. A warren of alleys propped precariously on steep slopes, homes were built haphazardly with whatever materials could be stolen from the port. Connecting neighbourhoods, steep stairwells transformed Valpo into a labyrinth of ladders. But take the wrong turn and — just like players of the board game — you could end up slithering down a serpentine alleyway back to square one.

Wherever you are, however, there’s always a view of the Pacific. When the fog lifts, it’s even possible to see the towering Argentine peak of Aconcagua. “I love walking to a viewpoint and just looking at the ocean,” says Sammy Espinosa (who works under the name Jeksy), one half of graffiti duo Un Kolor Distinto. “It gives me a sense of freedom.”

Along with his partner, Cynthia (known as Cines), Sammy has painted several multistorey buildings in the city. But he appreciates graffiti will always be a transient art form. “If you want something to last forever, you should put it on a canvas,” he tells me, aptly summing up the spirit of Valpo.   Although defined by its past, this unconventional city thrives in the moment. And a legacy of independence lives on.

Things to see and do  

La Sebastiana Self-styled ‘captain of the land’, Nobel Prize-winning poet Pablo Neruda converted this house into a ship-shaped home in the 1960s, complete with eccentric paraphernalia acquired on foreign adventures. A French carousel horse, a stuffed emperor penguin chick and an Italian ceramic cow have all been playfully arranged here, reflecting the artist’s wry sense of humour. An audio guide weaves anecdotes with biographical details to paint a picture of one of South America’s most colourful characters.  

Museo Universitario del Grabado (MUG) In the 1930s, Chile’s first school of engraving opened in the Valparaíso Province, pioneering a new art form. Featuring over 9,500 pieces by artists including Mapuche printmaker and painter Santos Chávez, this new museum is run by the University of Grabado. Having taken over 10 years to restore, the former 19th-century home is an equally impressive work of art.  

Valparaíso cultural park Find artists sketching and dance troupes energetically rehearsing on the lawns of a former prison that’s been transformed into a buzzing arts centre. Hosting exhibitions and workshops, a gallery set in former cells has become a place for freedom of expression. Grab lunch in the laid-back theatre cafe or sit on the terrace walls to watch the sun go down.  

Street art tours A sommelier and local graffiti artist Al Ramirez lead tours through the city’s ever-evolving street art gallery. Learn about the gritty style wars and the ethics of overwriting pieces never designed to last forever. There’s also a chance to tag walls and visit artists, such as world-renowned duo Un Kolor Distinto, in their homes.  

Historical cemeteries Over the centuries, South Americans have built some of the world’s most beautiful final resting places. Doric columns flank the entrance of hilltop Cementerio Number 1, where tombs were intentionally given the best views of the city. Visit Cementerio Number 3 to see the grave of the ‘Chilean Robin Hood’, serial killer/folk hero Émile Dubois, which has been a virtual shrine ever since his death in 1907.  

Riding the funiculars Built from the late 1800s to ease the strain of navigating near-vertical hills, around half of the city’s original 31 acensores still trundle up and down the slopes. Two of the most popular and easily accessible are Reina Victoria and El Peral, both on Cerro Alegre hill.  

Watching fisherfolk Given its coastline stretches for almost 2,500   miles, it’s hardly surprising one of Chile’s main industries is fishing. Arrive early   in the morning to witness small boats   unload their hauls at Caleta Portales cove, where some of the strongest guilds operate. Wander along the pier to find fisherfolk preparing nets, and queue up with gulls   and pelicans for ceviche served from   wooden shacks.

Where to Shop

La Dulcería You won’t need a golden ticket to enter Valparaíso’s very own Willy Wonka factory — just follow a trail of white ants painted along San Enrique. Boiled sweets, fruit jellies and chocolate moustache-shaped lollipops are among the creations handmade on site. Watch artisans rapidly mould and slice a soft, caramelised paste before it solidifies into hard candy.  

La Vida Porteña Tucked behind the groaning wooden cogs of the El Peral funicular, this upmarket souvenir shop specialises in gifts nostalgically inspired by Valpo’s rich past. Leather toiletry bags hark back to the days when steam ships would carry travellers to the dock, while local food products include neatly labelled jars of Chilean smoked chilli pepper condiment merkén.

Galería Espacio Rojo Lured by the ocean, gallerist Cristián Vega-Rojo spent 10 years transforming a 19th-century, sea-view manor house into one of the best places to view works by Chile’s emerging artists. Find pretty paintings hanging alongside bold street art canvases, all sold for negotiable prices. Not just a shop, this is a place to learn about Valpo’s past and ponder its future.  

Where to stay

Hotel WineBox Valparaíso Kiwi winemaker Grant Phelps and his Chilean architect girlfriend Camila Ulloa are proud of the fact that only one truck-load of waste was produced in the building of this sustainable hotel, constructed from shipping containers. Determined to take the snobbery out of wine drinking, the pair plan to offer tastings in their trendy terrace bar, where bathtubs have been converted into benches.  

CasaBlu A mix of cultural styles reflects the colourful past of this historic family home, a short walk from art gallery Palacio Baburizza. Baroque cherubs and Buddha statues decorate rooms adorned with azulejo tiles and carved wooden doors imported from England. Healthy breakfasts use ingredients sourced locally and herbs from an on-site garden fed by a drip-irrigation system.  

Casa Higueras Be transported back to Valpo’s heyday in this 1920s mansion house, where an air of sophistication still swirls through wood-panelled corridors. Switch between an elegant drawing room, bedroom balcony or infinity pool for superb views of the port and bay — but save sunsets for the rooftop bar. A discreet doorway leads into Cerro Alegre, one of the prettiest neighbourhoods.  

Where to eat    

Delicias Express Empanadas are a fast food staple. Around 90 different varieties are available at this small shop near the port, with prices starting at less than £1. Pull up a stool at the counter, where wi-fi is freely available, or ‘grab and go’ for a stroll around the streets of Cerro Alegre.  

Tres Peces Co-founder Meyling Tang has taught local fishermen to use social media to sell their daily catch to local restaurants   and businesses. Without the middlemen, the team behind this informal seafood restaurant keeps prices remarkably low.   Open from Wednesday to Sunday for lunch, the nine-person terrace fills quickly. Try slithers of pickled bull kelp, an endemic seaweed championed as a superfood.

La Caperucita y el Lobo After setting up shop at her grandmother’s charming higgledy-piggledy house, Carolina Gatica and her partner Leonardo de la Iglesia soon earned a place on the ‘World’s 50 Best’ list with their whimsical restaurant, whose name translates as ‘little Red Riding Hood and the wolf’. Traditional family recipes — upscaled here with considerable gastronomic flair — are served inside cosy rooms and on an outdoor terrace overlooking the city.  

Where to go for nightlife

Bar del Tio A cut above its grungy, boho neighbours, this downtown cocktail bar attracts grown-ups who still want to have fun. Sip a pisco sprinkled with smoky Chilean condiment merkén and nibble on tapas in a cool, clandestine space straight out of Brooklyn or Berlin.  

Bar de Pisco Chile’s first ever pisco bar reputedly opened on this site in the 1800s, and the latest incarnation doesn’t disappoint with its jaw-dropping selection of alcoholic, amber-hued nectars. The cocktail menu ranges from classics to more curious creations to be enjoyed on a sun-splashed patio or at gigs at the adjoining Café Vinilo.  

Cervecera Altamira Take a break from rocket-fuel piscos by sampling ales and IPAs concocted by one of Chile’s top independent microbreweries. Working stills and metal kegs sit behind glass panels in this rough-and-ready gastropub beneath the Ascensor Reina Victoria, inspired by the first brewers who set up shop here in 1825.  

Explore like a local  

Stairway to heaven Multi-floored arcades provide shortcuts between neighbourhoods on different elevations. Famously snapped by Magnum photographer Sergio Larrain in the 1950s, Pasaje Bavestrello, on Alvaro Besa, is an Instagram staple. Pop into La Verbena Deco Almacén, a tiny shop here that sells coffees and retro home decor. Irregular dining Nothing in Valpo happens early, so breakfast is always after 8am. A cheaper option to a late lunch, meanwhile, is afternoon tea, known as once, served from 5-7pm. Meaning ‘11’ in Spanish, it refers to the number of letters in ‘aguardiente’, the fire water that accompanies light snacks here. Try finger sandwiches on the terrace of Restaurant La Concepción .  

Head for the hills While Cerro Alegre and Restaurant La Concepción are popular tourist stops, Bellavista and Florida are the hills where Valpo’s residents prefer to hang out. Head to the rooftop bar of Verso Hotel , on Bellavista, or venture further afield to Barón Bar , on Barón Hill, for more sky-high music and dancing.  

Getting there & around

British Airways flies direct between the UK and Santiago four times a week from Heathrow. ba.com Average flight time: 15h.   European carriers such as Iberia and Air France offer one-stop flights via their respective European hubs.  

Most hotels offer free transfers from the international airport in Santiago. The journey takes around an hour. It’s possible to explore most of the city’s attractions on foot, although be careful carrying valuables such as cameras in dark alleys in either the early or late hours. For guided tours, Gary James runs excellent tailor-made half- of full-day tours through andBeyond .  

Spring (September to October) and autumn (March to April) are the most pleasant periods to visit Valparaíso, although the climate is mild throughout the year. The longest days are at the height of summer in January, with highs of a comfortable 21C, although sea fog can roll in at any time.

More information

chile.travel/en Rough Guide to Chile. RRP: £16.99 Canto General, by Pablo Neruda.   RRP: £21 Neruda (2016). Dir: Pablo Larraín

How to do it

Booking.com offers four nights B & B in Valparaíso at Hotel Casa Higueras, from £1,842 per person based on two sharing. Includes hotel transfers and flights from Heathrow to Santiago.  

Published in the November 2022 issue of   National Geographic Traveller (UK)

Follow us on social media

Twitter | Facebook | Instagram  

Related Topics

• CITY GUIDES

You May Also Like

An insider's guide to Denver, Colorado's wildly creative capital

A guide to São Paulo, the Brazilian city defined by its creative subcultures

Free bonus issue.

A guide to Yokohama, the Japanese city cementing its identity as a creative hub

The inside guide to Cádiz, Andalucia's most underrated coastal city break

The inside guide to Alicante, Spain's underrated coastal city

A city guide to Buenos Aires, Argentina's inventive capital

Where to travel in April

• Environment
• Perpetual Planet

History & Culture

• History & Culture
• History Magazine
• Mind, Body, Wonder
• Paid Content
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

Must-see attractions in Valparaíso

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…

Ascensor Concepción

The city's oldest funicular, Ascensor Concepción takes you to Paseo Gervasoni, at the lower end of Cerro Concepción. Built in 1883, it originally ran on…

Museo de Historia Natural

Explore the natural history of central Chile in nine rooms that focus on biology and ecosystems. Signage is in Spanish only.

Edificio Armada de Chile

This palatial blue-colored naval command building dominates Plaza Sotomayor.

Ascensor Reina Victoria

This funicular dates back to 1902 and connects Av Elias to Paseo Dimalow.

Plaza Matriz

The historic heart of the city is Plaza Matriz, which is watched over by Iglesia La Matriz. Begun in 1837, it's the fifth church to occupy this site since…

Cementerio de Disidentes

Adjoining the main cemetery, the Cementerio de Disidentes is the spot where English and European immigrants were buried. Despite the name, these departed…

Museo a Cielo Abierto

Twenty classic, colorful murals are dotted through this cerro's lower streets, forming the Museo a Cielo Abierto, an open-air museum with works from famed…

Museo de Bellas Artes

The rambling art nouveau building at the western end of Cerro Alegre is called Palacio Baburizza; it houses the Museo de Bellas Artes, which has a decent…

Congreso Nacional

One of Valpo's only modern landmarks is the controversial horseshoe-shaped Congreso Nacional, located in the eastern section of El Plan. Its roots lie in…

Museo Lukas

Local cartoonist Lukas had a sharp eye for the idiosyncrasies of Valparaíso. You need to speak Spanish to understand his sardonic political strips…

Barrio El Puerto

In the west of El Plan, Barrio El Puerto (the port neighborhood) has the twin honors of being the oldest part of Valparaíso and the most run-down…

Mercado Puerto

Long defunct (and home to a pack of street cats), El Puerto's beautifully restored food market should be open again by the time you read this.

Iglesia La Matriz

Classically inspired church, allegedly sacked by Sir Francis Drake in the 16th century. The fourth construction is the one you see today.

Monumento a los Héroes de Iquique

A subterranean mausoleum paying tribute to Chile's naval martyrs.

Mirador Diego Portales

You can see all of central Valpo's colorful hills from the Mirador Diego Portales in the east of town.

• 1 Understand
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2 By train
• 2.5 By boat
• 3.2 By taxi
• 3.3 By train
• 3.4 By funicular
• 8.2 Mid-range
• 8.3 Splurge
• 9.1 Nightlife
• 10.1 Budget
• 10.2 Mid-range
• 11 Stay safe
• 13.1 Consulates

Valparaíso is a city of almost 300,000 people (2017) on the Pacific coast of Central Chile . Frequently referred to as simply Valpo , it is about 120 km west of the capital, Santiago . The city is widely known for its bohemian culture, brightly colored houses, and beautiful seaside views.

Understand [ edit ]

Valparaiso is an important port town, and has been for hundreds of years, resulting in its being made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003.

Its location on the shipping routes before the completion of the Panama Canal, has left a legacy that still can be seen in various features of the old port town. Its location in the earthquake zone, and the disastrous earthquake of 1906, is another legacy. There have been more recent earthquakes as well.

The old town is surrounded with features that reflect the rich maritime heritage, and an important location of Chilean national pride - where its naval mastery was challenged and maintained.

When roaming the chaotic, hilly streets, and taking in the views and ambience, you are not just experiencing the port and the colorful houses, or the funicular railways, but a complex history of Chilean national identity and politics.

The old town can be compared to the more modern Vina del Mar just to the north, and the hinterland that leads over to Santiago.

There is also an active nightlife and a constantly changing variety of artistic events.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

Valparaiso does not have its own airport. The closest airport with commercial service is Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport ( SCL  IATA ) in Santiago, some 1½ hr away, which offers extensive domestic and international service.

To get to Valparaíso from Santiago's airport, requires catching a bus heading to Pajaritos from outside of the airport terminal.

This will drop you off at the north side of "Pajaritos" a bus/subway station on the outskirts of Santiago, cross to the south side of the subway station to get to the bus platform.

From here, buses leave frequently for Valparaiso and other destinations; you may also take the subway into downtown Santiago. It is generally not necessary to have a bus ticket before arriving at Pajaritos. A ticket between Pajaritos and the airport with Centropuerto bus company is 1700 pesos .

By train [ edit ]

The Metro Valparaíso or Merval runs between Valparaiso and Limache, as well as surrounding communities including Viña del Mar . It runs from 06:00 to 23:30, and is new, clean and fast. Adult fares range from 204 pesos to 1080 pesos depending on the time of day and the distance travelled, but value cards of a minimum of 1200 pesos must be used; single tickets are not sold.

By car [ edit ]

While Valparaiso can be a bit of a difficult city in which to drive, the area's highway system is generally of good quality. There are often tolls on highways.

By bus [ edit ]

Buses from a wide variety of destinations within Chile have scheduled service to Valparaiso, in addition to service to the Argentine city of Mendoza . The bus terminal is near the National Congress building.

Approximate bus travel times to Valparaiso:

• 1.5 hr: Santiago (many times every hour, the trip may take much longer if there's congestion)
• 7 hr: La Serena (every other hour)
• 12 hr: Mendoza, Argentina (the road may be closed in winter due to bad weather)

Local buses also ply between Viña del Mar and Valparaiso, taking about 15 minutes each way. Fares range from 350 to 380 pesos.

By boat [ edit ]

Some cruise ships dock in Valparaiso, mostly as part of a long South American itinerary. Also possible is a Freighter Cruise from Mexico, taking two weeks and making several stops along the way.

Get around [ edit ]

The city micros are run by Transporte Metropolitano Valparaíso [dead link] . Exact routes and fares can be found under "Empresas" on the website, and single journeys cost about 250 pesos for local routes and 300 pesos for routes running between El Plan and the hills.

By taxi [ edit ]

Colectivos are taxis painted in black with yellow roofs that run fixed routes, and are a very common mode of transport between (and within) Valparaiso, Viña del Mar, and other surrounding areas. The cost of the trip, while more expensive than the bus or metro, depends upon the distance being traveled following a system of zones. There are also regular taxis that do custom rides, but they are less common and more expensive. This type of taxis often congregate in the area around the Plaza Anibal Pinto.

The light-rail system, Metro Valparaíso or Merval, runs along the coast. It starts at Valparaiso's port and heads into Viña del Mar, reaching Limache through Quilpué and Villa Alemana. The metro provides quick access to major places of interest, and is only slightly more expensive than taking public buses. Adult fares range from 204 to 1,080 pesos depending on the time of day and the distance travelled, but value cards of a minimum of 1,350 pesos must be used; single tickets are not sold.

By funicular [ edit ]

Ascensores , funiculars, ply between El Plan , or the coastal strip, with the cerros , or hillside communities. They are for the most part old and creaky, but generally reliable. There were historically a bigger number operating in the past. Check - as some close for repairs or simply don't operate any more. The fare may sometimes differ between going up and going down, but cost about 300 pesos each way. The ascensors are a unique mode of transportation in Valparaiso, and offer gorgeous views of the cityscape, port, and the Pacific Ocean. A particularly interesting one is the Polanco. This is located just off Avenida Argentina at Simpson. Rather than a funicular, it is the only vertical elevator whose entrance is at street level. You walk through a 150-m-long tunnel where it can take you to two distinct levels, the highest of which is a tower, an excellent place to get a great view of the city, being 60 m above the entrance.

See [ edit ]

• Cerros Alegre and Concepción
• Plaza Echaurren – Serrano Street
• Cerro Cordillera
• Banking area - Prat Street
• Paseo 21 de Mayo (Cerro Artilleria)
• La Matriz Church and surroundings
• Ascensores (inclines)
• La Sebastiana, one of three homes of poet Pablo Neruda
• Ex Cárcel, a former jail turned cultural center and concert venue
• Museo Naval y Maritimo (Naval and Maritime Museum) , Paseo 21 de Mayo 45, at top of Ascensor Artillería , ☏ +56 32 2437651 . Tu-Su 10:00-18:00 . This museum is dedicated to military naval exploits and battles, and puts a large focus on the Chilean victory against Peru and Bolivia in the War of the Pacific.  
• Plaza Sotomayor . The central square near the port and the heart of the old seaport city. ( updated Jan 2016 )

Do [ edit ]

• Funiculars . Going to Valparaiso and not going on the ascensores (inclines) is like going to Venice and not taking a ride on a Gondola, only that the ascensores cost as little as 100 pesos. They are also of practical use as they help many local people get to the higher parts of town, saving them from having to walk otherwise long and steep pedestrian routes. Many however are undergoing repair or do not run at all, however even then they allow for some interesting pictures. ( updated Apr 2018 )
• -33.03197 -71.63042 1 Ascensor Artillería . The most touristy one. Mirador del Cerro Artillery provides a panoramic view of the city of Viña del Mar, Reñaca, and Concón. It reaches through the "lift" Artillery, in operation since 1893 (ask for Customs plaza area). It costs 250 pesos, on the first floor is the Mirador "Walk May 21," (delivered to the community in 1911) in which impossible not to enjoy the restaurant "Calafquén", typical dishes of fresh seafood, with a fair value. At the Craft Fair you can buy from winter clothing (ponchos, Ruan, scarves, socks, gloves, wool hats), souvenirs, and jewelry from lapis lazuli (blue stone semi-precious which is only in Chile and Afghanistan), by price and quality of the stone. Also visit the Naval Museum (500 pesos) in the midst of the Paseo. ( updated Apr 2018 )
• -33.03782 -71.63019 2 Ascensor Cordillera . With a beautiful staircase and lately been reconstructed. ( updated Apr 2018 )
• -33.04946 -71.61934 3 Ascensor Florida . This one does not run anymore, but the hike up and beyond reveals a beautiful neighbourhood with La Sebastiana and the Winebox Hostel. ( updated Apr 2018 )
• Carnival . During the last week in the year, Valparaiso holds an annual carnival that everyone should experience at least once in their lives. Each year the festival centers around a different country, from which performers and artists are invited to come and represent their culture and their work in theater, music, and the performance arts. Most activities are free and are held outdoors. The celebration culminates with a New Year firework display that within five of the most beautiful in the planet. But get ready in time because the city's population triples on those dates. ( updated Apr 2018 )
• The German Pirate ( myvalparaiso.cl ). Amazing tour by a German man who has lived in Valparaiso for years. He seems to know everything and everyone about the place. He speaks Spanish, English and German. Discounts for groups. You're unlikely to find a more immersive tour of Valparaiso.  

Learn [ edit ]

The universities of Valparaiso are:

• Technical University Federico Santa María [dead link]
• University of Valparaíso
• University of Playa Ancha [dead link]
• Pontifical Catholic University of Valparaíso

Many international students study at the Catholic University and the University of Valparaiso.

Buy [ edit ]

Valparaiso has larger chain department stores like Ripley, located in front of Victoria Square, and Falabella on Independencia street, and large supermarket chains like Líder on Pedro Montt and Brasil streets; Santa Isabel on Pedro Montt, Brasil and Uruguay streets, as other small and non-chain supermarkets. There are other small or non-chain and specialized stores on Esmeralda, Condell, Pedro Montt, Independencia and Chacabuco streets, most other shopping is done in small stores on the hills, or with street vendors. There is a large shopping centre on the eastern end of Avenida Brasil.

Eat [ edit ]

The most traditional food for tourists in Valparaiso is the Chorrillana , a heaping mound of french fries topped with steak, onion, and eggs. You can eat this in the traditional restaurant J Cruz . Fresh seafood is readily available in many restaurants around the city, especially around the muelle (wharf) areas, and is considered a must for any seafood lover.

Bakeries are located on nearly every block, and produce quite delicious breads that can be had warm and right out of the oven at almost any time throughout the day. They are best enjoyed smothered with Palta, which are grown en masse in Chile ( palta is the Chilean and Argentinian word for what is known the anglo world like "avocado", known in most other Spanish-speaking countries as aguacate ). In addition to the many types of bread, another widely available snack to keep you settled as you walk the streets are empanadas, a flaky pastry filled with meat or cheese.

Budget [ edit ]

On the second floor of the Mercado Cardonal (cnr Ave Brasil and Uruguay) there are a few excellent, cheap and midrange restaurants serving lunch.

• -33.044765 -71.623666 1 Mahuel Hot , Bellavista 466 . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• -33.045314 -71.622622 2 Sabronómico , Condell 1403 . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• -33.047099 -71.618948 3 La Pica de Vitorio , Independencia 1718-1786 . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• -33.04697 -71.618294 4 Restaurante Navoli , Carrera 547 . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• -33.050465 -71.609093 5 Natur In , 2698,, Av. Colón 2602 . Vegetarian ( updated Mar 2023 )
• -33.047469 -71.625387 6 Delirios de Valparaso , Av. Ecuador 301 . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• -33.051902 -71.603512 7 El Valenciano , Avenida Colon 3110 , ☏ +56 32 225 1619 . Delicious chicken, good sandwiches and good value meals ( updated Jan 2022 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• -33.043019 -71.62795 8 La Conquistada Restaurante , Almirante Montt 382 . Great restaurant in Cerro Concepciòn. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• -33.043603 -71.628137 9 Cocina Puerto , P.º Almte. Montt 455 . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• -33.048898 -71.606823 10 Restaurant O'Higgins , Almte. Barroso 506 . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• -33.042114 -71.624488 11 Nazca Restaurante Peruano , Esmeralda 1103 . ( updated Mar 2023 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• -33.041557 -71.626524 12 Cafe Turri , Templeman 147 ( by the ascensor conception ). Great views and good food. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• -33.036738 -71.627955 13 Restaurante Bote Salvavidas , Acceso A Recinto Portuario . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• -33.041228 -71.627188 14 Il Paparazzo Ristorante & Winebar , Papudo 424 . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• -33.041905 -71.626508 15 Restaurant La Concepción , Papudo 541 . ( updated Mar 2023 )

Drink [ edit ]

On weekends, the time to go out for a drink (Chilean people call it " salir de carrete ") starts no earlier than midnight, though somewhat earlier during the week. The pubs and clubs close at 05:00 on weekends, and 04:00 on weekdays.

Drinking alcohol in the streets is not allowed and 18 years is the minimum age for drinking alcohol, though enforcement of these rules is somewhat lax. If you are under 18, you may not be allowed entry into some pubs.

Chile is a major wine-producing country, and bottles of fairly tasty wines can be had for slightly more than US$1.

Nightlife [ edit ]

• La Torre - offers inexpensive drinks, and is frequented by university students
• La Piedra Feliz - a more expensive and touristy club that often features salsa dancing, mosty for the older crowds
• Club El Cielo
• Club Stockolmo
• Club El Huevo - one of the largest dance clubs in Valparaiso (five floors), diverse music, and a rooftop bar
• Bar La Playa
• Mascara - caters to an artsy and gay/lesbian crowd

Many clubs and bars are also found in Viña del Mar. Public transportation and taxis continue to run throughout the night, making it entirely feasible to have accommodations in one city while going out for the night in the other.

Coffee [ edit ]

• Puro Cafe , Calle Edwards, 301 , ☏ +56 9 96380239 . One of the few places in Chile to have real espresso, not instant coffee. The cafe has beautiful and comfortable furniture, making probably one of the best places in Valparaiso for coffee.  

Sleep [ edit ]

• Hostel Casa Verde Limón , Cumming 198 , ☏ +56 32 2121699 . Nice living room where you can meet people, very helpful staff. Single rooms from 22,000 pesos . ( updated Oct 2022 )
• Angel Hostal , Cumming 160 Cerro Carcel , ☏ +56 32 2126940 . Dorm room 7000 pesos per person. Double room 8000 pesos per person, matrimonial and single beds. Good breakfast, decent rooms, friendly helpful staff, good place to meet people, free internet and some tickets to nightlife bohemian experience.  
• -33.0493 -71.6212 1 Apartments Valparaiso Experience , Pasaje Santa Margarita 234, cerro Bellavista ( a 4-minute walk to Plaza Victoria, between Ferrari St y Bernardo Ramos St halfway down staircase alley Pasaje Santa Margarita on Bellavista hill ), ☏ +56 988308764 , [email protected] . All apartments are fully furnished with free and stable Wi-Fi and cable TV. Quality duplex apartments, central heating, double glazing windows, wooden ceiling beams and wooden floors, each unit with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, bright living room and equipped kitchen and ample deck terraces with panoramic views over the ocean, city and coastline. Remodelled building with 2-, 3- and 4-bedroom apartments on a safe and central location on Bellavista hill.  
• The Mirador Bed and Breakfast , 251 Levarte . A very comfortable hospedaje in the Playa Ancha sector of the city, with several rooms, small apartments, and a balcony with a great view of the city and port. Internet and Wi-Fi. A nice kitchen to use. Parking. Marisol, the owner, is wonderful and very helpful.  
• The Yellow House , Capitán Muñoz Gamero 91, Cerro Artillería ( The Yellow House is easily reached by using the Ascensor Artilleria, on foot, by public transport or by car. ), ☏ +56 32 2339435 . The Yellow House has 7 comfortable guest rooms. Most rooms as well as the homes two galleries, living and dining areas offer wonderful views of the port and harbour and on a clear day extend as far as the Andes. The Yellow House also has a book exchange, WiFi, cable TV and a selection of board games. The house was built in the late 1800s and has been fully restored. The "Ocean View" room, as the name indicates, has the best view and is really worth it.  
• Residencia en El Cerro , Pasaje Pierre Lotti 51, Conceptione ( Pierre Lotti 51 is easily reached by using the Ascensor Concepcion. ). For absolute quietness, except for the creaking floors, try Residencia en El Cerro. Next door at 43 there is also accommodation. This Hostal is on an alley where no traffic get and the gardens add a little attractive colour. Breakfast is just OK with coffee/tea, bread, butter and jam. The place is in its original 1880s decor - maybe. Wi-fi, TV. Twin 30,000 pesos .  

Stay safe [ edit ]

In the context of Chile being a relatively safe country, Valparaiso is among its more dangerous locales, like many harbour cities around the world. Mainly, watch out for pickpockets, for instance avoid hanging your purse or bag in the back of your chair when seated, because it may get stolen. Violent crime is very uncommon, but normal precautionary measures should be taken; while in the street, do not display expensive jewelry. The port area (called "Puerto") is generally considered to be dangerous even during the day.

Connect [ edit ]

Cope [ edit ].

• There is a laundry in the mall of Hotel Prat. 5 kg 3700 pesos.

Consulates [ edit ]

Go next [ edit ].

• Viña del Mar - The beach town Viña del Mar is only ten minutes by train from Valparaíso, and slightly longer by bus. If you take bus 612 from Plaza Echaurren you will get a full tour of the Valpo hills, and you can jump off at La Sebastiana.
• The idyllic village Quintay is 45 minutes to the south by car. Take a colectivo from Calle 12 de Feberero, behind the bus terminal, they leave as soon as they fill up. 1400 pesos.
• Concón is a small town near Valparaiso (25 to 30 minutes in car). Here you find a big gastronomic activity. The city is called "capital gastronomica de Chile" which means "gastronomical capital of Chile"; even Anthony Bourdain was here and he ate at "Las Deliciosas", where he said, he ate the best "empanadas" (a typical Chilean dish). Other places to eat are "El Secreto", "La Gatita" (a very good place to eat seafood) and "Picada Horizonte".

• UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• UNESCO tag to be fixed
• Has custom banner
• Has mapframe
• Articles with dead external links
• See listing with no coordinates
• Has map markers
• Do listing with no coordinates
• Drink listing with no coordinates
• Sleep listing with no coordinates
• Has Geo parameter
• Central Chile
• All destination articles
• Usable cities
• Usable articles
• City articles
• Pages with maps

Navigation menu

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)

Planning Your Trip to Chile?

Save time, stress & money with a customized travel itinerary planned for you by a Chile expert

What previous clients have said:

“It’s refreshing to find someone with insider knowledge that can take you off the beaten track, away from the mainstream. I particularly liked the detail you give; where to stay and your favourite places. We stayed in some lovely places because of your knowledge, places that we would probably never have found. I also liked the fact that we could ask you questions whilst on the move. Lots to like Steph!”

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

• Skip to main content
• Skip to header right navigation
• Skip to site footer

Albom Adventures

Capturing the essence of travel through photography

Inspiring travel through photography

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 …

Valle del Encanto Chile: Petroglyphs in an Enchanted Valley

Parque das Aves: Latin America’s Largest Bird Park is near Iguazu in Brazil

Colombia Travel Tips: 10 Cool Things to Know Before You Go

10 Best Beaches in Buzios Brazil, a Stunning Coastal Town

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.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

The Best Things to Do in Valparaiso, Chile

The colorful, bohemian city is the cultural heart of the country.

“Valparaíso, what an absurdity you are,” wrote the poet Pablo Neruda in his ode to the city he occasionally called home. “What a head of disheveled hills, that you never finish combing.” While the hills and sea views are the city’s most marked natural features, it’s the profusion of brightly colored buildings smashed alongside each other, ambling for those views with dramatic funiculars, that make Valparaíso so special — and a must-stop on any trip to Chile.

Most tourists to the nation will likely center their journey around the capital, Santiago. But just two hours away, near the beach and with a twin city in the resort town of Viña del Mar next door, Valparaíso is the cultural heart of Chile. A visit to the South American country wouldn’t be complete without a visit to this seaside area, important both in Chilean culture as well as internationally due to its history as the major port linking the Pacific and Atlantic oceans before the Panama Canal was created; UNESCO first designated the city’s historic center in 2003.

With history, art, food, and a great beach for swimming, everyone can find something to do in Valparaíso and Viña del Mar. Here are some places to start.

Chile is, of course, in the southern hemisphere—so their seasons are reversed. Still, temperatures are moderate year-round, hovering in the 40s to 60s even in the depths of summer and winter. The warmest season for enjoying Valparaíso’s sea breezes or Viña del Mar’s beaches is December through March.

Take a street-art tour.

Ride the funiculars.

The city’s dramatic hills can be climbed on foot or enjoyed via funicular. The railways — called ascensores , or elevators in Spanish, though they’re not strictly vertical — dotted the port city at its commercial peak during the turn of the 20th century but have fallen into disrepair, with only a handful still functioning. Climb aboard one of these rickety things for the history, but also because it’s just convenient and cool and costs a few cents: El Peral, Artillería, and Concepción are popular choices.

Check out the flower clock.

Drive around Viña del Mar for five minutes and you’re likely to pass the flower clock, Reloj de Flores, which was created for the World Cup in 1962. Three arms spin around the bright red and pink flowers that make up the clock face, making for a kind of corny but rather pretty tourist attraction.

Go to the beach.

The twin cities’ dramatic views can only be enjoyed for so long before you start pining for the sand. The hottest beach in Viña del Mar is Reñaca, which is surrounded by restaurants and shops, and is known to be a bit of a scene. Slightly more relaxed is Playa del Sol, a long stretch that still has plenty of cafes and cocktail spots for sunset on the Pacific.

Visit La Sebastiana.

The poet Pablo Neruda, who won the Nobel Prize in 1972 shortly before his death, is one of the proudest figures in Chilean history, and his influence—and lovely word —can be spotted everywhere. He maintained three homes in Chile, all of which are now open to the public through the Fundación Pablo Neruda . His home in Valparaíso, dubbed La Sebastiana for the architect who created it, is a whimsical funhouse of carnival horses, colorful glass, and the cozy armchair from which he wrote. An excellent audio guide accompanies you on your visit, sharing humorous stories and explaining the provenance of interesting objects.

Where to Eat

Tres Peces As the name suggests, this restaurant is focused on seafood — but also sustainability, as the owners are dedicated to responsible fishing and only serve what was caught that day. Photos of their fishermen as well as diagrams of the region’s fish decorate the walls of what was until recently a private home, and each main dish only costs about $11.

Apice Cocina de Mar One of the most romantic restaurants in the area, Apice offers fine dining of fresh seafood with an unbelievable view of Valparaíso’s port and the Pacific beyond. The tiny menu generally offers just two options per course, with ceviche, scallops, and hake as common options alongside a wine list by local producers.

Cafe Entre Cerros This charming little spot is the essence of Valparaíso: a little ramshackle but packed with art, heart, and flavor. Exposed beams and a stairwell packed with paintings welcome guests, while the food gets them to stay: inventive sandwiches on homemade bread, fresh salads and fruit juices, chocolate-drizzled desserts, and a long list of interesting coffee drinks make it the perfect daytime stop.

Where to Stay

Sheraton Miramar and Convention Center Jutting out on its own bluff so that every room feels like it’s floating out on the ocean is this five-star hotel, which boasts 138 rooms and a long history as the centerpiece of Viña del Mar’s resort life. Two restaurants (including a fine-dining option focused on seafood), a bar, two pools, and a spa entertain guests when they’re on the grounds, but the Miramar is also walking distance from many of the city’s biggest tourist attractions—and across the street from the Reloj de Flores.

Hotel Palacio Astoreca With its unmissable cherry-red facade in the heart of Valparaíso’s historic center, this 1920s mansion was restored and reopened as a boutique hotel in 2012. The 23 rooms overlook the bay and have chic, minimalist interiors. Plus, the hotel boasts multiple fun extra areas to hang in, including a funky library, sprawling piano lounge, and a wine cellar.

READ REVIEWS

Casa Higueras Another converted 1920s mansion, the feeling of Casa Higueras is warm and comfortable, with dark wood enveloping the walls, floors, and furniture. The Valparaíso hotel offers free guided tours of the city and cultural programming, including architectural visits, and the attached restaurant, Maralegre, has a grand terrace, as do many of the rooms.

Kaitlin Menza is a freelance features writer. She lives in New York. You can see more of her writing at kaitlinmenza.com . 

@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;-webkit-transform:scale(-1, 1);-moz-transform:scale(-1, 1);-ms-transform:scale(-1, 1);transform:scale(-1, 1);background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-1jdielu:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}} Travel @media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-128xfoy:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}}

Where to Dine in Myrtle Beach, According to Locals

Best Room At… Rosewood Hong Kong

The Best Room at... Westin Palace Milan

An Omni Homestead Resort Itinerary for Everyone

Step Inside an Experimental Hydrogen Boat

Best Room At... Hotel Chelsea

Best Room at Principe di Savoia

The Best Golf Course in Ireland Is at Adare Manor

Best Room At... Hotel La Compañia

The Best Room At: ... Rosewood London

How to Live in a Spa

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.

you may also like...

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!

Things To Do In Valparaiso, Chile: Best Street Art In Valparaiso, Restaurants And More

Covered in street art, this is without doubt one of the most colourful cities in the world. Ready? It’s time to find out the best things to do in Valparaiso, Chile.

Valpo to its locals, Valparaiso to the masses. and a mouthful for tourists to pronounce (here goes nothing “Valpar-aa-eeee-so”)… Whatever you choose to call it, you’re guaranteed to come away agreeing Valpariso is a beautiful, vibrant mess. As I clambered up a set of colourful mosaic steps, past an ancient red and yellow funicular, along a street with giant murals and houses painted pastel shades, I felt like I’d FINALLY arrived in Chile . After a moderately underwhelming start to my trip in the capital Santiago , this was the burst of energy I’d been waiting for! Unlike anywhere I’d been before, I could feel its South American feistiness seeping into my soul.

WHERE IS VALPARAISO?

Valparaiso is located in central Chile, 120 km (75 mi) to the north west of the capital Santiago. You can drive from the big city to Valparaiso in around 1 hour 30. If you want to travel by public transport, the bus from Santiago to Valparaiso takes exactly 1 hour 30, leaving from Terminal Alameda Santiago and dropping you in the centre of Valparaiso. It’s a really easy place to get to. If you want to find out more about travelling by bus in Chile, definitely read this post: 15 things to know about travelling by bus in Chile . 

GETTING TO KNOW THE VALPARAISO REGION

Street artists in the city have long been expressing themselves with their political graffiti and murals. In fact, although the port city is awkwardly arranged across 43 separate hills (you’ll work up a sweat getting to know the place), each has its own distinct identity.

While on the Uncorked Cooking Class in Santiago, one of the group recommended we join the “Wally” tours in Valparaiso. The tours run by Tours4Tips are led by young, enthusiastic Chileans (dressed like Where’s Wally!) and provide an introduction to the city’s history and politics, all while giving a flavour of daily life.

It’s officially a free tour, they just work for tips… but believe me, you’ll want to tip generously (around $5-10,000 Chilean Pesos per person). By exploring the city on foot, we took in tonnes of key sights, stopped at some gorgeous viewpoints, and snapped photos of the best street art in Valparaiso. I would genuinely recommend it as one of the best things to do in Valparaiso, Chile.

I learned on the tour that in the mid 20 th Century, Mexico enjoyed a big muralism movement. It wasn’t long before Pablo Neruda (Chilean poet, diplomat, and Valparaiso’s most famous resident) invited them to get creative in his city. Consider it the social media of the day – as politicians now tweet their latest opinions to the masses, the street artists would spread their political messages via art. It worked too. The murals were unavoidable, powerful and full of expression.

As with many South American cities, Valparaiso has a large central square – Plaza Sotomayor. With a tall monument in the centre and flanked by the impressive buildings of the Headquarters of the Chilean Navy, the Post Office, the Fire Station, Estación Puerto railway station and the Customs House, it’s one of the main hubs for the running of the city.

HOW TO TRAVEL AROUND VALPARAISO, CHILE

Once you’ve wandered up and down a few of the cerros (hills) you’ll be keen to know more about the other transport options. From the rickety funicular railways (Cerro Concepción being the oldest, opening in 1883), to the old trolleybuses (which started operating in the 1950s), you’ll realise part of the fun of Valparaiso, is getting around!

For just a few hundred pesos you’ll be at the top of the steepest hills in moments. Only 8 of the city’s 26 funiculars are active today, and I’d definitely recommend trips on Cerro Concepción as it’s the oldest, and Ascensor Artillería for the incredible views of the port’s brightly coloured shipping containers. My companion described getting around the city as ‘an adventure in itself’ – so true, but it’s what makes travel here so fun! In fact, I’d say that catching transport up and down the hills is one of the most fun things to do in Valparaiso. 

VALPARAISO RESTAURANTS – TOP PLACES TO EAT IN VALPARAISO

We stayed in the Cerro Concepción neighbourhood, which turned out to be a great area for food and drink options. Some of the top Valparaiso restaurants were on our doorstep! Just up (yet another) hill is the buzzing Cerro Alegre, full of mid-range dining options, and popular with both tourists and locals.

Top rated on Trip Advisor,  Cafe del Pintor , offered a very reasonable set menu including delicious chicken in a sticky merlot sauce. We loved the informal feel of the restaurant, and the fact it had its very own murals. Even indoors, it was hard to escape Valparaiso’s street art!

Cocina Puerto was the place for a lengthy menu of pisco sours, large seafood stews, and an unexpectedly tasty dish of turkey, bacon and a local rubbery cheese! This photo doesn’t do it justice – it really was delicious!

At local Italian, La Bruschetta we shared a large pizza, cooked to perfection and three tasty bruschettas topped with ingredients including rocket, pesto and prosciutto. 

Contemporary rooftop restaurant Fauna was recommended by several friends, both for its exceptional views of the city and the quality of food. We tucked into a couple of delicious steaks, and picked two glasses of red from a long wine list. As we looked out after dinner, the twinkly lights of Valparaiso stretched for miles – a really beautiful sight. 

Around this area were several ice cream stores and patisseries that also caught my eye! It seemed a shame that after living off steak for a week, I never seemed to have room for dessert.

SIGHTSEEING IN VALPARAISO

If you decide to explore the city with Tours4Tips , you’ll get to see the Parque Cultural de Valparaíso – a converted prison and park area that hosts concerts, dance displays and other events throughout the year. For me, this was the perfect spot to soak up the city’s atmosphere. As the sun beat down, teenage couples frolicked on the grass and a large family gathered with balloons and cake to celebrate a child’s birthday.

One morning we woke early to climb to the Bellavista neighbourhood and check out Valpo’s most famous residence La Sebastiana . 6000 pesos will gain you entry to poet’s Pablo Neruda’s kitsch house – and a real glimpse into the mind of an eccentric character and one of the top things to do in Valparaiso.

As you twist and turn up the narrow staircases you’ll see artefacts from his life, including plenty of 1950s furniture, a stuffed bird he brought back from Venezuela, a bar area where he threw legendary parties and his top floor study with incredible views of the harbour. As a traveller, I particularly enjoyed his cartography collection – including an ancient map of the world.

After several funicular trips, a trolleybus adventure, and a local bus referred to by locals as ‘the rollercoaster’ (not sure where I left my stomach…) it was time to try one more mode of transport… boat. For 3,000 pesos you can hop on board a small vessel and see the city from a different angle. It’s a great way to see how the 43 hills slot together, and the real breadth and depth of colours. Plus, for me, a highlight was seeing the sea lions enjoying the sunshine, and cooling off in the water. It was a highlight of our time in Valparaiso.

Having finally mastered how to pronounce the city’s name (one more time…. “Valpar-aa-eeeeeeee-sooooooooo”), enjoyed the eclectic transport system, snapped several hundred photos of the best street art in Valparaiso and sampled some great food, it was time to leave behind my new favourite colourful city. It may be gritty, it may have a dark side, but that all plays a part in its inherent beauty. You might not see it immediately, but for me, part of the fun was looking for it.

PRICES IN VALPARAISO

Funiculars/Ascensors: 100-600 Chilean Pesos Trolleybus: 270 Chilean Pesos Boat trip (30 mins): 3,000 Chilean Pesos Bus from Valparaiso to Santiago: 4,000 Chilean Pesos Bus from Valparaiso to Viña Del Mar: 480 Chilean Pesos Empanada: 800 Chilean Pesos Dinner for 2 with drinks: Approx. 26,000 Chilean Pesos Entry into La Sebastiana: 6,000 Chilean Pesos

Find out more about tours of Valparaiso.

For a different view on Valparaiso, check out Macca from A Brit and a Broad’s blog about Vibrant and Vivacious Valparaiso .

Enjoyed this post? Why not pin it…

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

2 thoughts on “Things To Do In Valparaiso, Chile: Best Street Art In Valparaiso, Restaurants And More”

Love your photos! The street art and colourful buildings look amazing. I definitely want to try to visit Chile in the next few years after seeing this.

Your pix of the funiculars look really fun! I was in Valparaiso 6 years ago but it looks like it’s changed quite a bit. Some of those restaurants weren’t there then. Fauna sounds like a really nice place! I ate a lot of steak there too.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

The Ultimate 4-Day Itinerary for Exploring Valparaíso, Chile

Molly Brown

https://www.foratravel.com/guides/AXUY2V/the-ultimate-4-day-itinerary-for-exploring-valparaiso-chile-molly-brown

Arts & Culture

Food & Wine

International Travel

Hidden Gems

Local Culture

Curator’s statement

Famous for its colorful hillside neighborhoods, winding stairway and abundance of street art, the port city of Valparaíso, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is not to be missed on your visit to Chile. Valparaíso is a throwback to a time when electric trollies coasted along the waterfront and funicular elevators carried people high into the hills where panoramic vistas of the bay await.

The Fora Difference

Book with Molly to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.

Killer perks

Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you

Personalized recs

Customized travel planning for your style

Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay

Hotel brighton.

Fronted by the Tuileries gardens, this classic Parisian hotel hosts elegant suites and the entirety of Paris at its doorstep.

Hotel Casa Higueras

Stylish boutique hotel on Cerro Alegre (Happy Hill) complete with a swimming pool and spa.

Hotel Palacio Astoreca

Located just a short walk away from El Peral Funicular, this beautiful boutique hotel is set in a historic building and f eatures panoramic views of the Bay.

Fauna Hotel & Restaurante

Fashionable hotel with a rooftop restaurant and large terrace that boasts views of the surrounding city and bay.

Day 1: Street Art Tour, Markets & Ports

Breakfast: Cafe Entre Cerros (cafe between hills) is a cozy spot to stop for a quick coffee and breakfast. They’ve got a great little menu of specialty coffees and teas, freshly squeezed fruit juice and small bites like avocado toast, pastries, cakes, fruit salad, simple sandwich and salads.

Street Art Experience in Valparaiso

Valpo Street Art is recommended everywhere as the FIRST & the BEST in street art tours in Valparaiso. They offer three tours, and the one I think you will like best is "The Classic". On this walk, you will get to see the street art and graffiti art of Valparaiso with a local Graffiti artist. You'll walk through this maze of a city, and as you walk through the alleyways and staircases, you'll learn about this “Favela-Reminiscent” City. The tour stands out due to the fact that you can learn everything you ever wanted to about graffiti. They explain the techniques used, a background on the artists, history of graffiti in Chile, the types of artists, the styles, and of course, the impact this has on the city. 

Your expert guide will make sure you have an amazing experience, going underground into the world of street art, and seeing an area less visited by most people who come to Valparaíso. On the walk, you will see everything from simple tags to elaborate art pieces. You will talk about the social aspects, the techniques and codes behind this lively art scene.

The walk lasts about two hours, as you walk through Valparaiso's main square, Sotomayor and Cerros Alegre and Concepcion, which are the covid-friendly routes we have available for the moment. So you know, Valparaiso is a city made up of 45 hills. To make getting around Valparaiso easier, the city has installed funiculars (huge, fancy elevators). The best known is the Ascensor Concepción funicular which dates to 1883, and takes you to "Cerro Alegre" the epicenter of street art and activity for visitors to Valparaíso. This is where the tour takes place!

Lunch: This neighborhood is a great place to spend an afternoon wandering the streets, checking out the art-smothered alleyways and building sides. Because the tour will have taken you through most of the neighborhood, I advocate having lunch here and then heading elsewhere for the afternoon!

For lunch, head to the yellow house, AKA Hotel Brighton, for a spectacular view over the Pacific Ocean. Pop in and enjoy lunch on their beautiful veranda. Outside the hotel you can browse paintings by talented local artists as this is one of the best areas for shopping in Valparaíso for locally made handicrafts. If the spirit so moves you, check Sala de Arte Wenteche, which is right around the corner. Note: they're only open when they have exhibits, but the whole area is full of galleries and artesian stores.

Markets & Ports in Valparaíso

This afternoon, discover the local spirit of Valparaíso by visiting its more authentic settings, the seafront, which is flanked by huge ports and unruly markets. 

The stretch of the port (Caleta Portales) stretches roughly from Meule Baron to Muele Prat.

Start by taking the train down, and then along the coastline to reach Mercado Cardonal, which boasts seafood products from all over Chile. I know you all don't eat seafood, but fishing is a major industry in Chile, and integral in both its history and current economy.

Most fishing in Chile today is still artisanal, rather than "big box" like in the US. You will be amazed (horrified?) by the sea lions, seagulls and pelicans that crowd the market to get scraps. This is definitely the most chaotic sector of the city, where you can soak up the local spirit through the colors, aromas and sounds of the place. Insert yourselves into the depths of the market and experience the traditional kitchens with the smell of the port and the taste of the sea. 

Right outside of the market is Sombrerería Woronoff. Might not be your thing, but this is a hat shop that's been serving people since the 1920's and it's a fantastic, old fashioned hole-in-the-wall with great finds! After you've gotten your fill, you can either walk (35 minutes, and be sure to walk on Brasil, as it's flanked by parks!) or cross the city in a traditional electric trolleybus to reach the Mercado Puerto.

Mercado Puerto was built between 1922 and 1924 by the Bezanilla y Vergara office in a historicist style. It occupies a block building made up of Blanco, Valdivia, Cochrane and San Martín streets, and is the epicenter of Barrio Puerto. It was closed for about ten years due to serious damage caused by the earthquake of 2010 and was officially reopened in 2020. It currently has 51 stalls, of which 18 are for fruits, vegetables, nuts, emporiums, dairies, plants, olives and jams and 33 are stalls of local crafts from different areas such as goldsmithing, prints, photographs, altarpieces and products made of leather.

Finally, head over to Plaza Sotomayor for a quick look.  Bordering the famous port in the center of Valparaiso, this popular plaza is the main plaza in Valparaiso and it contains the country's naval headquarters. Plaza Sotomayor is dominated by the palatial blue-colored Edificio Armada de Chile, and in the middle of the square lies the Monumento a los Heroes de Iquique, a subterranean mausoleum paying tribute to Chile's naval martyrs. The Aduana Nacional (Customs House) and Estacion Puerto, the terminal for commuter trains, are also nearby. Muelle Prat, the pier at the foot of Plaza Sotomayor, is a lively place on weekends, and also the prime point for crane-and container-spotting.

Dinner and Drinks in Valparaiso

Drinks: Fauna blessed with a rooftop terrace on a hillside giving patrons a stunning uninterrupted panorama of the surrounding city. To drink, be sure to try the Fauna Pisco Sour (with berries!) or a Mauco IPA from just up the road in Concón.

Dinner : Stunning sea views await at the loftily perched La Concepción, housed in an 1880-constructed mansion complete with garden terrace. Gourmet Chilean and international dishes form the à la carte menu, with special focus on fish and seafood: think sesame-crusted tuna, fish stew, clam salad and steak. Weather permitting, book a terrace table for an exceptional panorama of the port city of Valparaíso. The wine list reflects Chilean vintages.

Day 2: Chilean Wine Tasting

Wine Tasting in Chile

Today, pleasure your palate with the robust flavors of Chilean wines on a full-day wine tasting tour of the Casablanca Valley. Famed for its agricultural perfection, the splendid scenery and smooth wines, the Casablanca Valley is sure to impress during visits to local, organic vineyards.

At your first of four stops, you will meet a Chilean farmer and enjoy a tasting of his properties (organic) wines. Hear about the production and planting of trees and fruits that take place on this farm. From here, you'll get to visit two more of these famous vineyards and get a glimpse into (and taste of!) the production of these very high quality and famous wines. Added to your outing is a stop for lunch, where you will have a couple of delicious restaurants to choose from. The restaurants chosen by your local guide are well-known for their high quality and traditional food.

Dinner at Cafe Turri

When asked by a foreigner where to eat, a local will almost certainly reply ‘Cafe Turri‘. Housed in a 19th-century building, the cafe not only has one of the best views in town but also has an incredible menu with a wide selection of both Chilean and foreign dishes. Scallops and shrimps in whisky and cumin, octopus carpaccio and lamb ribs in pepper sauce or honey and mint are just some of the sophisticated creations on offer. Great for dinner, Turri also has a cafe if you’re in the mood for a lazy afternoon with tea and cake. Be prepared to spend for the privilege of enjoying one of Valpo’s oldest venues.

Day 3: La Sebastiana

Breakfast at Cafe del Poeta

Before visiting La Sebestiana, it's only fitting that you have breakfast at Cafe del Poeta this morning, a restaurant that provides the opportunity to be seated in close proximity with Nobel prize-winning poets. They may be in the form of mini models, but it’s charming nonetheless. Here you can read Neruda and Mistral away from the bustle of the city while eating tiramisu or sipping on freshly squeezed orange juice. The atmosphere is 1920s, the coffee is strong, the food is unpretentious while being delicious. Although Café del Poeta is a cheaper alternative to higher end restaurants, it still manages an extensive menu.

Visit La Sebastiana

Pablo Neruda was a poet, an eccentric, a bohemian (before it was en vogue...) and a collector, who in addition to leaving inspiring verses, left three houses that became extensions of his personality, one of which is La Sebastiana.

La Sebastiana exudes a part of the poet in each of its corners. To enter the house, you have to access from a second floor, which reaches a bright living room and dining room, separated by a circular fireplace. The view of the hills and the bay of Valparaíso from this space is simply perfect. On the next floor is the master bedroom and at the last, the poet's library. The house is full of nooks and crannies, memories of his travels and extravagant spaces. 

This is how Neftalí Reyes Basualto (Pablo) embarked on the search for a house in his beloved Valparaíso, a perfect glimpse into his mind and the oddness of Valpo: "I want to find in Valparaíso a little house to live and write quietly. It has to have some conditions. It can not be very tall or short. It must be solitary, but not in excess. Neighbors, hopefully invisible. They should not be seen or heard. Original, but not uncomfortable. Very light, but strong. Neither very big nor very small. Far from everything but close to mobilization. Independent, but with commerce nearby. It also has to be very cheap." Finally his friend Sara Vial, to whom he wrote these words, found exactly what the poet was looking for.

Lunch at Casa Dumplings: For a break from Chilean food, head to Casa Dumplings for lunch! Cute and quaint, Casa Dumplings serves....dumplings. On your walk from the museum to Casa Dumplings you'll pass a number of restaurants, including Samsara which is also highly reviewed and serves south east Asian if you prefer that.

Explore Bellavista: Having just visited La Sebastiana, you'll be in the Bellavista neighborhood, one of the nicer neighborhoods in Valaparaiso. The charm of these neighborhoods is found in simply meandering through the streets, which I recommend spending a few hours doing. Below are a few recommendations to guide you!

Mosaic Staircase: Being built on so many hills, Valparaiso is like San Francisco with staircases everywhere you turn. However, Valparaiso steps are painted, tiled or otherwise decorated. At the entrance to Bellavista, alongside the funicular, is an exquisite staircase that is totally tiled.

Museo a Cielo Abierto: In sticking with a theme, you'll have now noticed that in Valparaiso, colors are everywhere, art is in the air and you can breathe it in every step. While in Bellavista, check out the Open Sky Museum (Meseo a Cielo Abierto). This museum is a pioneer initiative in Chile and is composed of 20 murals of diverse pictorial styles located on the slopes of Bellavista Hill. It was inaugurated in 1992 and there are well known artists, some of them world famous like Roberto Matta andMario Carreño.

Finally, dive into the city’s history at the Parque Cultural de Valparaíso. This cultural hub is very important to the people of Valparaíso and their daily lives. 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 art of former prisoners on the walls, young people practicing dance routines and (if you get lucky) an exhibition.

Chilean Food & Wine Experience For Dinner

This tasting experience was created to showcase Valparaiso through its local food and wines. You'll try products from bakeries, delicatessens, farmer's markets and pastry shops and pair them at a private cellar called "Caoba Tasting Room", where you'll open 4 premium wines. You'll talk a bit about history, identity and local traditions, which have shaped the way "porteños" live, and how foreign influence has been present at Chile's tables since the early 19th century. For the food, the experience consists of snack-size food, which in Chile is called "picoteo", rather than elaborate dishes, with the intention of having more variety.

For wine, you'll taste varieties such as Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Chardonnay or Viognier, as well as Pinot Noir, Merlot, Carmenere, Cabernet Sauvignon, Carignan and Syrah. The host works with full varietals (not many blends, unless the food could use that touch) and the wines are in the Reserva, Gran Reserva and Premium range. The wines vary in region, but they are all Chilean wines.

Day 4: Viña del Mar

Day Trip to Viña del Mar

A 15-minute bus or train ride is all it takes to exchange the colorful cerros and chaotic alleys of Valparaíso for the tree-lined avenues and ostentatious high-rises of Viña del Mar, Chile’s largest and best-known beach town, drawing thousands of mostly Chilean vacationers each summer. In some ways, it’s indistinguishable from beach towns elsewhere in the world, with oceanfront bars, restaurants and families abound. But lurking in the older corners of town are extravagant palaces, elegant villas and sumptuous gardens. Many date from the late nineteenth century when Viña del Mar — then a large hacienda — was subdivided into plots that were sold or rented to the wealthy families of Valparaiso who came to spend their summers by the sea. The city also has a pair of beautiful botanical gardens and a museum with an important collection of Easter Island art. 

Beach Bum: It’s the beaches that draw people to Viña del Mar. Although the water may be cold, these playas are undeniably picturesque. There are plenty of great spots to choose from directly accessible all around the city, but my pick is Playa Reñaca. The golden sands, beautiful blue ocean, and city backdrop really give this beach some character. Second pick is Las Salinas, which is perfect. The white sand stretches as far as the eye can see, perfectly juxtaposed with the rugged, rocky sea line.

Gardens: Viña del Mar has been given the moniker the “Garden City” for a reason. Although its lush city plazas are more picturesque than most, it’s the incredible Parque Quinta Vergara that’s the real star of the show. This neo-Gothic palace surrounded by immaculately landscaped gardens is the epitome of old world opulence. Beautifully landscaped areas complement modern structures turning the park into more than just an area for relaxation. The park is an aesthetic wonder. 

FYI, if you're there in February, you'll be there for la Festival Internacional de la Cancion de Vina del Mar. This international song festival is massive in Latin America, attracting legions of the hottest singer-songwriters from all over the continent. Held in a specially built amphitheater in Quinta Vergara during February each year, the event is televised to millions of adoring fans. If you're interested, it might be worth checking out.

The Garden Clock: Quirky or cheesy? You decide. Either way, there’s no denying the colorful Reloj de Flores is one of Viña’s most photographed attractions. Since 1962 its Swiss-made hands have been chiming on the hour, every hour as they pass over a colorful bed of flowers. 

Museums: Whether it be the Museo de Bellas Artes for some sophisticated high-end culture or the Palacio Rioja Museum for a taste of Viña’s bourgeois past, the city has a plethora of fascinating museums to keep even the keenest culture vulture amused. 

Palacio Rioja Museum: This beautiful building is a must see for anyone with a passion for architecture and design. Inside the building you will find a museum dedicated to aristocratic furniture; the variety of furniture in the elaborate and regal interior must be seen to be believed. 

The Francisco Fonck is a must for anyone who can’t make it to Easter Island thanks to its real life Moai statue on display.

Architecture: Despite being a modern upscale city, Viña del Mar is home to some amazing architectural landmarks that evoke vivid images of lavish lives of yesteryear. 

Wulff Castle: If you are looking for history in Viña del Mar, Wulff Castle is an excellent choice. Built for the Wolff family in the early 1900s, the castle is now the home of the city heritage center where you will find a wealth of information about the site and surroundings. The castle sits on the edge of a cliff and with blue waves lashing underneath it is an ideal photo opportunity. This is also an excellent choice for anyone interested in architecture.

Iglesia de Los Padres Carmelitas: If you want to see beautiful architecture in any city, one of the best places to visit is the church, and this stunning one in Viña del Mar will not disappoint. The beautiful white building is imposing yet graceful and has to be seen to be truly appreciated. Aside from this, this place of worship is very active and so makes the ideal place for anyone looking to connect with their spirituality while in the city.

Vegara Pier: In 2016, after many years of being closed, this pier was reopened to the public. The pier has an incredibly industrial feel and is a point of interest for anyone looking to discover more about the history of the area. The pier is particularly beautiful at sunset when the sun glistens off the ocean and casts stunning shadows over the pier. This is the ideal place to have a picnic and take in the scenery.

Dinner: I have a friend who lived in Valpo for 18 months and this is what she sent me when I asked her where to eat...

"Go to El Peral. El Peral is one of my favorite Valparaiso restaurants, and really restaurants in all of Chile. Every single time I visit Valpo, I make sure to make a stop here! It’s tucked away on a quiet cobblestone side street, and their ever-changing menu features traditional Chilean dishes with a modern flare. Be sure to try the ceviche of the day or the “pastel de jaiba” (crab pastry) — two of my  favorites! If you drink, their ají sour is a winner."

The restaurant itself looks quite charming: colorful, lots of plants, outside spaces, etc.

Need to Know

Ready for an adventure in Central America? Check out my guide to Costa Rica: 4-Day Adventure Itinerary in Montezuma, Costa Rica .

Travel Advisor

Molly is not currently accepting new clientele. If you're a current client, reach out directly. If you're looking for a new advisor, find one today .

Get in touch with Molly

Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.

You can normally expect a response from Molly within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked