Valparaíso

Chile, South America

Valparaíso, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its vibrant street art, steep hills, and colorful houses that cascade down to the Pacific Ocean. Known for its rich history and bohemian atmosphere, this coastal city boasts must-visit attractions like the historic Ascensor elevators, the lively Mercado El Puerto, and breathtaking viewpoints such as La Sebastiana, Pablo Neruda’s former home. The local culture is alive with music, festivals, and a flourishing culinary scene, making Valparaíso a charming destination for a unique cultural experience.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-4 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Arturo Merino Benitez

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Valparaíso

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the colorful hills

Wander through Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción's vibrant streets.

No booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit La Sebastiana

Explore Pablo Neruda's quirky house museum with stunning views.

No booking required
3

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a funicular ride

Experience a historic funicular for breathtaking views.

No booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through Plaza Sotomayor

Relax in this historic square surrounded by beautiful architecture.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Mercado Cardonal

Taste local flavors at this vibrant market full of fresh produce.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a street art tour

Discover Valparaíso's stunning murals and graffiti art.

No booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Enjoy the sunset at Paseo 21 de Mayo

Watch the sunset over the Pacific from this scenic viewpoint.

No booking required
8

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Museo de Bellas Artes

Explore Chilean art in a beautiful historic building.

No booking required
9

Est. 1.5 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Take a boat tour of the bay

See Valparaíso from the water and spot sea lions.

No booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Naval Museum

Learn about Chile's naval history in this fascinating museum.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

9 (#13 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Chilean Peso

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Curanto

Traditional seafood and meat stew. (National dish)

Empanadas

V

Stuffed pastry with various fillings.

Pastel de Choclo

Corn pie with meat and vegetables.

Cazuela

Hearty meat and vegetable soup.

Completo

Chilean hot dog with toppings.

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)