Valparaiso... a colorful and beautiful city! Valparaiso

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.

Get lost 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.

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! 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!

Lose yourself in Valparaiso’s hills and discover the stories hiding in its staircases, funiculars (elevators that run on rail tracks) and quaint houses. Take the El Peral funicular, where at the top you’ll be welcomed by the beautiful Paseo Yugoslavo and Baburizza Palace, home to the Municipal Museum of Fine Arts. 

Enjoy the landscape while looking out over the bay of this main port or try the delicious dishes prepared with fresh seafood in the local restaurants. You cannot leave Chile without having tried the traditional Chilean empanadas or without having tried a good Chilean wine. The charquicán, the casserole or the sopaipillas with pebre to pass the cold of winter or preparations made with corn such as the corn cake and the humitas that are characteristic of summer. You can also refresh yourself with a good mote con huesillo based on peach and mote.

Head up Concepcion Hill along Montealegre Street and be amazed by the remarkable Lutheran Church of La Santa Cruz. Paseo Dimalow begins here, where you can rest in its beautiful boutique hotels.