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Exploring Valparaíso: 10 Top Sights and Activities
Valparaíso, Chile is a vibrant port city nestled in a picturesque bay and surrounded by hills that are home to its famous brightly colored houses. Known for its street art, cable cars, and bohemian ambiance, Valparaíso has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its unique character. From visiting vibrant markets to exploring the nearby beaches, here are 10 top sights and activities to explore in Valparaíso.
1. Visit Plaza Sotomayor
Start your exploration of Valparaíso by heading to Plaza Sotomayor, the city’s main square located in the heart of the Historic District. The plaza is named in honor of Chilean Admiral Juan José Latorre Sotomayor, who defended the city against a Peruvian attack in 1866. The plaza is home to several important monuments, including the Monumento a los Héroes de Iquique and the Monumento a los Héroes de la Guerra del Pacífico. It’s also a great place to people watch and take in views of the harbor. Book your visit to Plaza Sotomayor here.
2. Explore the Street Art
Valparaíso is known for its vibrant street art, with colorful murals and graffiti adorning many of its buildings and streets. The city is home to both international and local street artists, who have transformed it into an outdoor museum. Take a walking tour to explore some of the most iconic street art in the city, including works by Inti Castro, INTI, and other renowned Chilean and international street artists. Book your street art walking tour here.
3. Take the Funicular Elevators Up the Hills
One of the most iconic sights in Valparaíso is its funicular elevators, which climb up the hills that surround the city. The elevators were built in the late 19th century to connect the city with its port and are still functional today. Taking one of the elevators up is an experience not to be missed – you’ll get incredible views of the city from above. Book your ride on a funicular elevator here.
4. Visit Playa Ancha
Valparaíso is located on the Pacific coast of Chile, so it’s no surprise that it’s home to some stunning beaches. Playa Ancha is one of the best beaches in the area and is located just a few minutes from downtown Valparaíso. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just taking a stroll along its boardwalk. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can join an ATV tour and explore the nearby dunes. Book your visit to Playa Ancha here.
5. Explore La Sebastiana, Pablo Neruda’s House
La Sebastiana is the former home of Nobel-winning poet Pablo Neruda and is now a museum dedicated to his life and work. Located on one of Valparaíso’s hills, the house was designed by Neruda himself and is now filled with his personal belongings and works of art. The house also offers incredible views of the city, which you can enjoy while exploring the unique architecture of this one-of-a-kind museum. Book your visit to La Sebastiana here.
6. Visit Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción
Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción are two of Valparaíso’s most iconic hills and home to some of its most vibrant neighborhoods. Both are well worth exploring on foot to get a sense of the city’s unique character – you’ll find colorful houses, street art, and plenty of cafés and restaurants along the way. Book your walking tour of Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción here.
7. Visit La Vega Central Market
No visit to Valparaíso is complete without a visit to La Vega Central Market, where you can find everything from fresh produce to traditional Chilean food. The market is full of life, with vendors selling their wares throughout the day and local restaurants serving up delicious dishes. There’s also plenty to explore here – take some time to wander through the stalls and explore all that the market has to offer! Book your visit to La Vega Central Market here.
8. Visit Valparaiso Port
The port of Valparaiso is one of the most important ports in Chile and is well worth exploring during your visit. Take a tour of the port to learn about its history and explore its many attractions, such as the Old Customs House, Museum of Maritime History, and Maritime Gallery. You can also take a boat tour to explore the bay or book a kayak tour to get up close and personal with some of Valparaiso’s iconic landmarks. Book your visit to Valparaiso Port here.
9. Visit Museo Naval y Marítimo de Valparaíso
The Naval and Maritime Museum of Valparaiso (Museo Naval y Marítimo de Valparaíso) is a must-visit for those interested in learning more about Chile’s maritime history and culture. Located in a former military barracks, the museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts related to naval history, as well as interactive displays that bring this history to life. Book your visit to Museo Naval y Marítimo de Valparaiso here.
10. Take a Wine Tasting Tour
Valparaiso is located in Chile’s wine-producing region and is home to several wineries that offer tours and tastings year-round. Take a wine tour to explore some of the region’s best wineries, learn about the production process, and sample some delicious wines! Book your wine tasting tour here.
With so much to explore in Valparaíso, you’ll never be bored on your visit! From exploring its vibrant street art scene to taking a wine tasting tour, there’s something for everyone in this unique city by the sea.
