Valparaiso Chile

Situated about 120km (72 miles) northwest of Santiago, Valparaiso is the second biggest city in Chile and the Capital of the Region.

In 2003 Valparaiso was declared a World Heritage Site, due to its historical importance, natural beauty, original architecture and layout.

There are a large number of historical Monuments within the city of Valparaiso. One of the oldest is the 'La Matriz del Salvador' church in the port area just below the Santa Domingo Hill. It was originally built in 1559 and was rebuilt again in 1837 as the church that can be seen today (with its slightly slanted tower). Inside the church you will find the 'Cristo de la Agonía', the sculpture of Christ that was a gift from the Spanish monarchs to the Metropolitan Cathedral. It was carved in wood in the late 1600's and is taken on procession through a part of the city every Good Friday (of Easter weekend).

You will find many funiculars, known as 'ascensores' throughout Valparaíso. These are a way for local people to be taken to and from their homes high up in the picturesque hillside neighborhoods. Some of the 'ascensores' where built as early as 1883. These are a must do when you visit the city as you will get to see some amazing views from them as you go up.

A large percentage of Chilean exports go through Valparaíso, the country's main port. In the 19th century, before the Panama canal was built, Valparaíso was a stop-off point to take on new supplies when ships were traveling between Europe and the west coast of the United States.

Muelle Prat (Prat Wharf) can be found at the foot of the Plaza Sotomayor, one of the main squares of Valparaíso. Muelle Prat is the only wharf where the public can closely watch the loading and unloading of the ships from a safe distance. You will find a typical handicrafts market at this wharf and boat trips around the harbor can also be taken from here.

The work of art on the right is painted on a restaurant door in Valparaiso. The door itself can be seen on the corner of Urriola Street and A.Montt Street. It was created by Patricio Peña Oltra. You might want to visit their gallery (Sala de Arte Wenteche) found on Galvez Street, number 49.

There is a spectacular fireworks display that explodes over the harbor of Valparaíso every New Year's eve. The show draws immense crowds every year with people arriving and saving their place in the early morning in order to keep their prime viewing spots. Some people even go to the extreme of camping the night there (though since 2009 it has been banned). If you are based in Santiago, make sure you get your bus tickets in advance since they disappear very quickly.

See our blog post about celebrating New Year's in Valparaiso.

Valparaíso is home to Chile's naval headquarters and also the National Congress.

Valparaíso's newspaper, 'El Mercurio de Valparaíso', is the oldest Spanish-written newspaper still in circulation. It first appeared in 1827 and has been going ever since.

It's possible to visit one of Pablo Neruda's three houses in Valparaíso. His other two houses are in Santiago and Isla Negra on the coast and this one, known as La Sebastiana, is perched high up on a hill with spectacular views of Valparaiso and its bay. Neruda spent less time here than in his other houses though as always, he left his unforgettable mark there. (Pablo Neruda won the Nobel prize of Literature in 1971)

Valparaíso is the only city in Chile where you can still travel by Trolleybus. The route is a little over 8 km taking you between Av. Argentina and the Aduana (Customs). The oldest working Trolleybus in the world that is still in its original condition can be found doing its rounds in Valparaíso. (Trolleybus 814)

Many cruise ships use Valparaiso as a stopover port. Some people even fly into Santiago and take a transfer to the city where they start their cruise. Transfers can be organized at the airport.

Valparaiso and Viña del Mar (Full Day Tour)

Where to stay in Valparaiso

La Nona B&B
Galos 660, Cerro Alegre, Valparaiso
Great location and great breakfasts

Hostal Caracol
Hector Calvo 371, Cerro Bellavista, Valparaiso
Situated up one of the hills just blocks from Pablo Neruda's House.

Hostal Portobello B&B
Artilleria 115, Valparaiso
A boutique hostel more than a party one that's about a 15 minute walk to the center.

Hostal Morgan
Capilla 784, Cerro Alegre, Valparaiso
Good location with helpful staff

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Last Updated: 04 January 2010